The Fat and the Furious (reposted)

[maltesefalcon]

Helen sighed. “I could do this forever.” She looked over at Connie, who was rivetted on a 20-something woman about 10 yards away. She suddenly waved at Zora, who ran over to her. Just out of earshot, she could not understand what was being said, but she came over nonetheless. Connie stood and looked her over very carefully and nodded. Zora produced a card and small information packet, thanking her in Portuguese. She ran off giggling like a schoolgirl. About ten minutes later, she returned with 6 of her friends. Connie was a bit taken aback, but still took the trouble to eye them over. One got the same paperwork and the rest went off, disappointed.

Connie looked at Zora. “That was awkward. Let’s tell them from now on, to keep it to themselves. We can find our own.”

Helen was interested enough. “What are you doing?”

Connie offered. “Told you before we left. Shopping for girls-for my modeling agency.”

Helen rolled her eyes. “You seem pretty choosy. Most of them looked pretty enough to me.”

Connie offered. “Maybe to you. But you don’t know what I’m after yet. Want to help?”

Now intrigued Helen nodded. “Sure.”

“School is in session. Brazil is unique in the world. The men prefer a certain look, and lucklily it can be found in abundance like no where else.”

“What kind of look?”

Connie nodded to Zora and she handed Helen a photo, of what looked like a stylized woman. There were labels for what to look for. Long curly black hair. Olive complexion. Almond shaped eyes. Fine features. Narrow shoulders, long legs and thin arms. 5’-10” tall minimum. Small, but perky breasts, narrow waist and a slight soft bulge over the belly area. Above all, very broad hips with a plump, fleshy bottom. The ultimate in pear shaped figures. Forget pear, this woman was built like a bowling pin.

Helen gasped. “This can’t be real.”

“Oh, I assure you it is. She’s a famous TV personality here. Now look around, more carefully this time.  Sure enough, about 1/3 of the women there exhibited that trait. Except instead of trying to minimize it, they celebrated, even flaunted their enhanced nether regions. Where western women would have worn a towel or sheer beach skirt, the most endowed wore the briefest of thongs and walked with an exaggerated stoop in order to emphasize both the projection and “jiggle” as they walked.

Connie explained. “See men worship women like that here, and there’s plenty of them. That’s why we failed here. No models they could identify with, even the plus ones. Well we’ll fix that. Now keep looking.”

After about ten minutes, Helen spotted a likely target. “What about her?”

Connie smiled. “I like her too. Go get her.”

The comment had been directed at Zora, but Helen got up and walked confidently over to her asking “Excuse me, my friends over there would like to meet you. Perhaps talk about a modelling career?” The girl didn’t reply, but began to back away. Zora saved the day by appearing, offering a card and some paperwork. A few key phrases in Portuguese were all that was necessary to convince her to come over.

Connie eyed this recruit carefully. She had all the attributes required, in spades. She looked over 6 feet tall in her bare feet, and had the prerequisite figure, which upon examination would prove to be 32A-22-44. Her butt was soft and rippled with her every movement; but despite its mass, had not an inch of cellulite anywhere. Despite her long jet black hair, and olive complexion, she had the palest blue eyes, a rarety amongst native Brazilians. It made her look even more exotic. Connie concealed her delight and took Zora aside. “I don’t want this one to get away. Make sure you get her address and phone number. We’ll send a limo.”

That done, the search went on. Connie picked out some who were a little on the chubby side too, but all had that same bottom-heavy flair.  By noon Coonie advised. “Okay that’s it for a while. We need to get you out of the sun and by the looks of you we’d better get some food into you, too.”

This routine went on for three more days until Connie had gotten about 50 recruits. That night they had a bit of a gathering in the hotel and most of them appeared, as expected. Through Zora, Connie explained that they would be going through a selection procress, during which time they’d room at the hotel.

Helen had little to do during the ensuing week except watch, as the girls tried on outfit after outfit, and paraded back and forth on the conference room table, that substituted for a runway. Connie pressed her into service as a photographer. Helen advised “I’m not much good at this.”

 Connie reassured her. “Don’t worry. The camera is to keep them in the right frame of mind. Get them to pose and vamp it up a bit, so we get all the angles. I really don’t care how the shots turn out, from an artistic point of view, as long as we have a few of each girl. Meanwhile, it will give you a chance to examine them up close if you like.”

“Oh sure” added Helen. “It will make the time pass.” She wondered why Connie would think she’d like to get closer to these girls. She’d probably never see any of them again, and most of them didn’t even seem to like her anyway.

They had two sessions a day, one after breakfast and one between lunch and dinner. In between they enjoyed the hospitality of the hotel. Most were from poor backgrounds and food was scarce so they took advantage. Oddly enough though, by week one a dozen were gone, either dropped out or were asked to leave.

Helen was concerned. She confronted Connie over lunch, on the eighth day. “Psst. You may want to lay off on the buffet for them. Look, they’re stuffing themselves silly, most of them. There’s a few with a little will power; but if the rest of them don’t watch it they’re going to get fat. Look at that one in the corner, her clothes are nearly bursting.” She was referring to Soledad. Already on the far side of voluptuous, she was doing her best to empty the buffet, at every opportunity.

Connie chuckled. “Wondered how long it would take for you to figure that out.”

Helen gasped. “You mean you want them to get fat?” She thought Roberta could have had her pick of “volunteers” here. Good thing she wasn’t around or Helen could be replaced.

Connie grabbed her arm. “Little louder please. I don’t think they heard you in New York.” Then she whispered “Look at them, for the most part they were pretty plump to begin with, that’s why I chose them. I simply want them to be even more voluptuous than they already are. Remember, this is a plus-size agency, after all. We’re looking for idols, not just models. Our target market is the women with real money. They all start out like this and the best looking ones find rich husbands. But after time…skinny pears mature into fat pears. I want these ones fat now, while they’re young, so the rich wives will indentify with them and buy our line. No one else has done or even thought of this. We’ll have the whole market to ourselves.”

Helen clucked her disapproval. “Sounds diabolical. What about the girls, don’t they have a say?”

Connie nodded. “Sure they can take it or leave it. No one is being forced, but we need to make an impact, from the start. The thinnest ones, or those that resisted have already been weeded out. Besides, the ones that do whatever we ask without question, should be less resistant in other matters. It’s hard to control employees from a distance. Look at yourself, your boss Roberta, she has no idea where you are right? Even if she did, how could she stop you now? Now please stay out of this. Most of these girls have potential, but we need to develop their ass…ets a bit more.”

Helen felt her own abdomen, glad for the chance to escape Gracia. Another few weeks there, what would she look like? At least these girls made her look skinny. She knew she’d gained some weight here as well, but luckily no one had noticed. This skimpy beach wear was unforgiving however, so she vowed to cut back once she got back to Milan. Maybe she could call New York, about going home soon.

As if on cue the tall model with the blue eyes strolled over and whispered. “A word in private please?” The girl whose name was Raynha, suddenly had a much better grasp of English than she had let on.

 Connie didn’t flinch, but waved her over to a private table. Helen was curious, but a stern glance told her to keep her distance. “Is there a problem?” asked Connie innocently.

“Maybe yes, maybe no. Not for me, but for you.”

The Italian bristled at the tone but hled her temper for now. “I see. Go on.”

“Miss, I am not stupid like some of these girls. I know what you are trying to do. Doing, in fact.”

Coyly Connie probed.”And what would that be, pray tell?”

“Your little game for training. It is not difficult to do this walking and pouting. You use it as excuse to keep everyone here.”

“Oh? Why would I do that?”

Raynha laughed. “So you can feed them up. You want them to get fat, before they see it. True yes?”

Connie pondered a story and finally nodded saying. “You are smart. That’s exactly what I’m doing. Did you tell anyone else?”

“No I came to see you, before I leave. This is not for me. Thank you for the chance and good luck…”

Connie grabbed her arm as she rose to leave. “Wait. Let me explain and then make up your mind.”

“Alright” said the younger woman, as she sat again.

“I’m doing this for a reason. You know as well as I do, that men like curvy women and I’m just trying to set you all above the pack.”

Raynha chuckled. “Miss, I am already above the pack. I see how you stared at me, when you sign me up. No one else get a limo ride. If you want me to work for you, take me like this or not at all. I can get work like this somewhere else.” She crossed her arms in defiance, expecting an argument, or a surrender.

Instead, Connie nodded. “Well that’s it, then. I’ll call for a car to pick you up. Please be packed and ready to go in twenty minutes.”

Raynha tried to fight fire with fire. “I read about you on the internet. You are big shot in Italy. We are not in Italy now. This is my country.”

Connie nodded. “It sure is. But models work world-wide. Not many shows here, and we will be the biggest player. Now if you will excuse me…” Connie stood to leave.

Raynha then grabbed Connies arm. “Wait. Maybe we need to talk more.”

Connie concealed a smile as she turned. “Oh. Change your mind? Let me give you a reality check girl. If you had other offers, you’d be working there now. Same as these others, I’m your ticket out of here. You signed a waiver, to come work for me. No one else can sign you, for 2 years. This is a very closed business and no one will touch you now.”

Raynha realized she was losing ground, so pleaded to Connies’ soft side. “Miss I want to work for you, I just don’t want to be like…them.” She pointed at the rest of the girls who were happily stuffing themselves into the next dress size.

Connie nodded. “That’s where we are in agreement. I don’t want you to be like them, either. I’m sure a few suspected what I was doing. Some dropped out this week already. But you are the only one to complain. I’ve seen models come and go. You are different already, and I want you to be a queen in your country. Wait there.” Connie went over to the desk where Helen was sitting and pulled out a folder.

She returned and produced a picture. It was a morphed image of Raynha. Maybe 30-40 pounds heavier, slightly fuller face. But above all, a much enhanced posterior. “We figure eventually we can get you to maybe 60 inches around the hips, without changing your overall look too much. Anywhere else you’d be a laughing stock, but here…as I said before-you’d be a goddess. Look, work for me 2 years and I’ll guarantee you get $20,000 month minimum. After that you can do what you want.”

Raynha looked at the photo, fascinated. “It looks so…real. Can you do this?”

“No. But you can. It’s up to you, and if you do I’ll expect something else.”

Defeated, Raynha asked. “What?”

“Simple. You help me with the others. Set an example, and be their peer leader. I see the way they look up to you. I don’t blame them, actually.”

Raynha countered. “I could just tell and spoil your little experiment…”

Connie nodded. “You could. In fact, I’m hoping you do.”

The puzzled look elicited further explanation. “Eventually, all of them will be in the same frame of mind as you. If you lead the way, then they’ll follow.”

Raynha sighed as she looked at the photo. “Okay, I will do it.

“Good” Connie clucked. “Now you’ve got a couple weeks left to get into shape. I don’t expect you to fit into that armchair, by the time you are done. And by the way, don’t get any ideas about ganging together to protest. It only took me three days to find this lot and I can find more, if I need to.  There’s one more incentive. I’m only taking twelve, so guess which ones I’ll pick. You have incredible potential; but just that. I’m not paying for what might have been. If I were you, I’d get over there and make up for lost time.If you’re not 20 pounds fatter by the time I leave, you’ll go back to the beach.”

Raynha sighed and did as she was asked. Now she began to eat more aggressively, as she beckoned a few of the girls over, Connie grabbed Helen’s arm. “Come on. Let’s go out on the town. Give them time to unwind a bit.”

Next morning, the crowd had thinned out some. At least in numbers. Notably missing were about 10 who’d not really put much effort into changing their silhouette. The remainder had obviously been clued in by their new straw boss. Judging from the way they were packing away breakfast, they were not too worried about the outcome either.

[maltesefalcon]

Karen New York (May 11/2009)

Monday finally arrived.Now that she’d had a few days to get used to the growth, Karen managed to find something to wear. A loose fitting A-line dress and cardigan should do the trick; but it would not pass a close inspection. Nor would her puffier facial features. She hoped that no one would pay attention, at least until the plan was more developed. With one notable exception, she would be right. In the lobby of her building, she found Anna waiting for her. “Yew eat breagfaz?”

“Yes ma’am.” She patted her belly and advised. “French toast. Roy’s getting better-I ate three plates full.”

“Trink milg like I zay?”

“Yes ma’am, a whole quart.  I hope I don’t need to pee now, before I get to work.”

Anna smiled. “Mebee thiz zoak it up a bit.”

She handed Karen a bag of six donuts. “Zurprize prezen’. Ogay to eat if yew eat properly firs’. Now go.”

By the time she got to work, the donuts were long gone. Although she’d only been there a half hour, Karen rubbed her belly and excused herself to go downstairs for moment. In the few minutes she was gone, she consumed another three donuts in the coffee shop. About an hour later, she ducked out again, this time downing a fried egg sandwich, washed down with a milkshake. She was still sucking back the last of the two butter tarts she brought back, when she stepped out of the elevator as Roberta walked by. The older woman said nothing, but Karen did not notice the long stare she received on her way back to her desk.

Karen realized that she was changing inside as well as out. Far from becoming inured to the bombardment of extra calories, her body actually craved it now. At 11:45 she was eyeing the clock, waiting for her opportunity to go down again, but was sidetracked by Roberta. “Karen you and I need to talk. Get your coat, I’m taking you to lunch.”

The ride in the elevator was a bit quiet. Karen prompted. “Am I in trouble or something…”

Roberta said “Not now. We’ll talk at lunch.” They went to the all-you-can-eat buffet, around the corner. To keep up appearances, Karen picked out a salad, a mineral water and a small fruit cup. Roberta meanwhile, heaped her plate with mounds of food and they sat down. Before she could start, Roberta asked. “Stand up for a minute.” Karen did as she was asked, and was steered into the empty seat, in front of the huge meal.

Roberta suspected what was going on and was determined to use it to her advantage. At the same time, the wrong tactics may end her little plot, before it even started. She wondered how to start, finally going with the blunt, yet disingenuous approach. “You’ve been eating like you have a tapeworm, all morning. Maybe this will keep you in the office for a while.”

Roberta took her tray and began eating the salad. Karen sat there, stoned faced and Roberta looked up quizzically. “What? Something wrong with your meal?”

Karen laughed. “What’s going on? I can’t eat all this.”

Roberta smiled. “From the look of you lately, I’ll bet you are willing to try. As for what’s going on, maybe you should tell me.” Roberta paused for effect, expecting an explanation; but was to be disappointed.

Karen had the best intentions; but then her stomach began to rumble, and her mouth watered. Temptation took over, as she began to eat, first daintily, then with abandon. Far from replying, she didn’t even look up. Roberta might as well have been on the other side of the room.

Exasperated, the older woman grabbed her hand to stop her. “Honey I said we need to talk-I meant it. Even when you had that fat suit on, I could tell you were starting to put on weight. That bulky sweater is not going to cover it up any better, who are we kidding? Don’t you think I noticed you sneaking down for extra breaks? I need to ask you. Why are you eating so much lately? Even when I was pregnant, I never ate like this. Is that it-are you pregnant?”

Karen shook her head as she continued to stuff herself. “Nope. Not yet, anyway.”

Roberta was both concerned and annoyed, but controlled both. “Then, you’d better roll back on the intake.  Take it from someone who knows: If you aren’t careful girl, you’re going to get fat.”

Karen resisted the idea to snicker, considering the source of that advice. Patting her now “outed” paunch Karen smiled. “Hopefully.”

Roberta did a double take. “For a bit, I thought you were simply oblivious to it. But you actually realize you’re…changing, and you’re…okay with it?”

“No need to beat around the bush, Roberta. You can say it- I’m getting fat-just not fat enough.” Karen reached over and speared a chicken breast.

Roberta leaned back and raised a suspicious eyebrow.  “So just so I understand, you are doing this on purpose?”

Karen nodded. “Of course. Why are you picking on me, anyway? Last I recall, you practically begged Helen to get fat. You didn’t seem worried about her well-being at all. In fact, when she refused, you shipped her off to Europe!” The chicken breast gone, she picked out a few ribs and began sucking the meat off the bone. Between bits she offered. “It got me to thinking. I need to fill out more-so I came up with a plan of my own.”

Roberta frowned. “I see. Well, it seems to be working.”

Karen shrugged. “So I’m a little bigger. No one’s business but mine, is it?”

Controlling her emotions Roberta got to the point. “Actually, it is my business, in one way. That’s why I wanted to see you in private, to save us both the embarrassment. You’re right, I did ask Helen to gain a little weight and I was put out, at her refusal to co-operate. That being said, I never asked you to do this. Are you bucking for that sales job, because Helen wouldn’t come to terms with it? If so, you need to know here and now, that is just not going to happen. You aren’t trained for it, sorry.” Crossing her fingers she added “If that’s it, get over it. I am very fond of you and don’t want us to fall out, over a misunderstanding.”

Karen shook her head. “Relax, I heard you that night at dinner, although in fairness, I did think about it for a while. Wearing that suit around gave me ideas, but I dismissed them pretty quick. I think your idea of “a little weight” and mine differ somewhat. There is no way I’m going through life that size. I agreed to another 15 pounds, then I’m done.” Then, she began eating again.

A bit relieved and suspecting the reason, Roberta pressed her for more. “Well, you are up to something. I’d like to know what.You say you agreed to 15 pounds. With who?”

Karen paused a moment and confessed. “It’s a little embarrassing to talk about. Maybe it’ll be easier, if I have someone else to confide in. Can I trust you to keep this between us?”

Roberta nodded coyly. “Of course. Now tell me.”

Karen leaned forward and whispered. “It’s Roy. He saw me in that fat suit, and got all kinds of ideas in his head. Turns out, he actually likes women with a bit more to offer, as it were. Honestly, I thought we were circling the bowl, until a month ago. Now…weird huh?”

Roberta smiled warmly. “So…you are doing it for him. Not as weird as you think. Remember your secret admirer, from our last lunch date?” That sparked a mini panic, as Karen scoured the room for him. Satisfied he was nowhere to be seen, she began to eat again.

Roberta assured her. “I don’t think you’ve got anything to be concerned about from him, looking like that. Remember, you had the suit on last time.” Then she added coyly. “Maybe I’ll get the next invitation.” Then she laughed. “Let me share something with you. I had my first child when I was nineteen. During that time, I did nothing but eat, so I gained thirty pounds. Back then, I was young and active, so managed to get it all off. Then, Becky came along. Gained 45 with her, but 15 stayed for the duration. Stan Junior did the same thing. By then, I was around 145-150 pounds, and I had no hope of getting my old figure back. So I gave up trying and started to gain even more.”

“Food became my best friend and I couldn’t stop eating.  Then, I got pregnant again. I was getting bigger all the time, and at first, I thought Stan would lose interest in me. Honestly, I tried to diet some before the next one was born. But all through that pregnancy, Stan kept giving me treats and encouraging me to eat a little more. Of course, I ate them and I blew up like a balloon. He didn’t seem to notice or care. In fact as I got bigger, he redoubled his effort. He would bring home ice cream and cake every night, for my cravings. I finally figured it out. He was trying to make me bigger and I was trying to go the opposite way. Once I confronted him over it, he admitted he liked me with a fuller figure. I could see it was going to happen sooner or later anyway, so I gave in. Marriage has never been stronger.” She rubbed her belly and said “It’s fun actually. I like to cook and I like to eat, so we both get something out of it.”

Karen smiled. “I had no idea, I thought Roy was just weird.”

Roberta shook her head. “Most men won’t admit it; but they actually prefer a more rounded, softer woman. It’s natural selection, actually. Men who go for the thinner ones, are fighting their own biological urges. It’s women, who think they need to be thin, all the time. I have never received a negative comment from a man on my appearance; but women make remarks all the time.”

Karen nodded. “Come to think of it you’re right. I tried to stay thin and convinced myself it was for Roy. Truth be told, I like being a little bigger-not having to worry about every morsel I eat going to my hips.” She rubbed her backside as she grabbed some fries and added. “Actually, I worry this won’t end up here now. I thought it would be easy, but this is harder than I thought. Eating is like a second job for me now.”

[maltesefalcon]

Roberta laughed. “Oh, if you only knew.  Anyway, I stopped worrying about my figure years ago. Now, back to you. What’s the plan?”

Karen pondered. “No real hard plans as of yet-just a trial concept. Like I said before I’m going to get up to 130 or so, and see what develops. That’s almost 30 pounds more than when I started. No way I’m getting as big as that suit; we got that sorted the first day. He wanted size 12. How big would that be?”

Roberta played the situation. “Size 12 would be pretty big for you, actually. You may want to reconsider. A few more curves would look good on you, though. More feminine.” Roberta visualized the transformation as her brain formulated the rest of her plan.

“That’s what Anna said”, Karen interjected.

“Oh? Who’s Anna?”

“Old Polish lady downstairs. We hit it off, and now I think I’m like a surrogate daughter, or something. She’s turned this experiment into her pet project, now. Have to admit, she knows what she’s doing; she’s obviously done this many times before. Over the weekend, she stuffed me like you wouldn’t believe. It was a bit creepy at first.”

“Oh Karen, don’t over react. You are just new…”

Karen cut her off.  “I meant that literally. She actually forced stuffing into me, like a turkey. First time I thought I was going to explode.” She went on to relate the whole weekend’s events.

Roberta blanched. “You okay?”

Karen nodded. “I know she’s just trying to help. It’s really hard for me to gain weight. Normally, I can eat like a horse, with no ill effects. I bet you I ate a week’s worth of groceries last weekend; but I only gained half a pound.”

Roberta grimaced as she felt her own prominent paunch. “Careful who you say that around. Could be a death wish, around some women.”

The younger woman laughed. “You’re the second person from this office, to tell me that. It’ll take a bit of time to get used to the routine and the results. Not only that, my metabolism must be out of whack. I’m hungry all the time now; but it’s hard to stay that full…”

“When you are working. I get it.”

Karen put out a feeler “You kno-ow…you did offer me an extra week vacation, for helping you last month. I thought maybe…”

Roberta finished the sentence “You thought that you’d take a week off, and lay around the house getting fat, while getting paid for it.”

Karen countered sharply. “You’re as bad as Roy, neither of you listen. I promised to get a bit bigger than this; then we will take it one step at a time. No way am I going to get actually fat, though. But it will be easier for me, if I get it over with quickly, out of sight, without a lot of office gossip. If people start staring and whispering-well I’m afraid they might make me lose my nerve.”

Roberta nodded. “Uh huh. Look, I think there may be something in this, for both of us. You know as well as I, that job is ideal for Helen. Her little European adventure is just a way to buy time, till I figure out what to do. It’s inevitable that she will get with the program; but we need to give her a bit of a reality check. That woman thinks she has me over a barrel; that she has nothing to worry about. Just for the record, you aren’t in line for the job, but she doesn’t need to know that.”

Karen dismissed it with a wave of her fork. “I heard you, already. Don’t worry, I’m not interested anyway.”

Roberta smiled. “Helen doesn’t know that either. Nor will she, for the time being. In fact, we are going to make sure she gets the opposite message.”

“We?” Karen gave her a blank stare. “What’s your game, then?”

“Maybe if she finds out through the grapevine, there actually is another contender…” Roberta whispered.

She outlined her plan briefly and Karen smirked deviously. “It’s sneaky, but I don’t know. It seems underhanded to trick someone into getting fat like that. Helen’s a good friend.”

“Which is exactly why she needs your help. If she doesn’t get with the program, I’ll have to replace her with someone else. Do you want to see that happen?”

“No-of course not.” The guilty look indicated Roberta was getting thorugh to her.

Roberta continued “Actually, this is perfect-I couldn’t have asked anyone to do this; but you seem determined on your own.Perhaps, I can offer you some incentives to keep you interested. First, when Helen takes the job, you will be a key player as well. I can promise a raise and promotion.”

Karen’s interest piqued now. “Okay. So far, so good. You said incentives.”

Roberta kept her in suspense. “Look, I’m going to get some real food. You think I got like this on soup and salad?” She returned in a couple minutes, with a huge meal, including 6 pieces of cherry cheesecake. The two continued their meal, as Roberta offered the other incentive. “You have made some good progress, from what I can see; but it’s been what, a month? Remind me, how much have you put on in that time?”

Karen admitted. “Fifteen pounds total-give or take.”

“Uh huh” nodded Roberta. “Few minutes ago, you told me it was all you could do, to gain half a pound over the weekend. Not to burst your bubble; but you aren’t going to change much in a week, no matter how hard you work at it. You said you had 15 more to go.”

Karen nodded. “Maybe. Where do you think would that put me-size wise?”

Roberta stretched the truth. “Size four-six depending on the cut and style. Here’s my offer. You agree to my plan, I’ll give you a month off, with pay. You just stay in touch. I’ll tell everyone you are working on a special project, for me. You get as big as you want, risk free. I’m happy, you’re happy, Roy’s happy. I’ll even spring for some new clothes, when you are ready to come back. Where’s the downside?”

Karen could not think of one. “Sounds good. You’re on, but what do I need to do to help-besides the obvious?”

Roberta knew this was do or die. “Good question. Can I trust you?”

Karen nodded. “Like I said, I need to get Helen to reconsider her stance on this undertaking. We’ll set a trap; with you as the bait. That’s all you need to know for now. Just one more thing; if you talk to her on the phone nothing about this, okay? I’ll figure a way to clue her in on the down low, so she believes you really are the competition.”

“Deal. Mum’s the word and size 6 here I come.”

Roberta extended her hand and the two shook on the deal. “Good, there is only one further stipulation.”

Karen asked. “Oh, what’s that?”

“If I give you a paid month off to do nothing but eat; that’s what you better be doing. You had better not come back weighing the same; I will not be best pleased. It’s not just for my sake either. Honey, you are beautiful; but you need to fill out a bit more. I’m glad you finally realize it. Now, shut up and eat. You can start with this”, as she handed the plate of cheesecake to her.

Karen blushed. “I can’t eat all that.”

 Roberta pondered. “Okay, I’ll have some too.”

She grabbed two pieces and waited for Karen to tuck in. “This is a deal breaker, baby. I need to see if you can be convincing enough. Eat, or the whole thing’s off.” On that note, Karen started to eat the fattening dessert. First two pieces were easy. It was delicious. Third piece was more difficult, as she began to fill up. Finally, she pushed the plate away with the entire fourth piece, still uneaten.

Roberta scowled. She moved over to the chair beside her and forked up a piece, holding it to the younger woman’s mouth. “Amateur. Open.” Karen did open, just to tell her that she was as bad as Anna. Instead, Roberta stuffed her mouth. “Come on chew, swallow. It will be over soon.” Karen gave in, eating the entire piece and most of the fifth one.

People were staring, which made Karen blush. It made Roberta realize that some may have gotten the wrong impression, from this encounter. A lesson learned, one she hoped that she could repeat. The stuffed girl now sat back. “No more please. Anna does this too, but more so.”

“I think you are in good hands, then. I’d like to meet this Anna. I think I’d like her actually.”

“Maybe, maybe not. She’d probably say you are too skinny, too. Course, compared to her, you are. Are you sure you two aren’t related? ”

Roberta said. “We’re done. You can leave. I’ll finish my meal and make some excuse for you. And by the way-just to be clear. I do expect some gossip, when you get back; it’s kind of the point. I’ll keep it to a dull roar, but get used to the idea now. See you in a month.”

 Now absolutely stuffed, Karen struggled from the chair and made her way home. She was tempted to just go to her apartment and sleep it off, but instead knocked on Anna’s door.

The old woman was pleased to see her, and was even more pleased to find out why she’d come home early. “Zo bozz vant yew get bikker, too. Even giff vacazion, to do it. Nize.”  Before Karen could even reply, Anna grabbed her hand and dragged her into the kitchen. “Gome, ve vaste time.”

Karen pleaded. “I’ve already had lunch-and then some. Please, I’m full.”

Anna felt her belly and raised her eyebrow. “Mebee yez-mebee no. Zhen vhy yew gome here?”

Karen smiled. “Two reasons. The boss did attach a condition-because of the plan she has for my colleague; she says I need to gain fifteen to twenty pounds, while I’m gone. I don’t think I can do it without my…coach.”

She outlined the little deception and Anna snickered. “Bozz just need zend her here inztead-I vix problem.”

Karen offered. “I believe that. But there was another reason…I’ve realized I like spending time with you. I hope I don’t offend you; but I never knew my real grandmother, and now I feel I’ve got a chance to at least …” She trailed off as her throat closed and her eyes misted over.

Anna smiled as she fought back tears herself. “No ovend. Yew mage very happy. Anna lige yew too.” She gave her protégé a hug then said. “Now tage off goat. Lot ov vork ahead. Ve sztart now-“goach” dezide vhen yew vull.”

Karen rolled her eyes, but knew there was no sense arguing, as Anna pulled half a pie from the fridge. A pie that soon would be inside her growing belly. Then, two bowls of the stuffing mixture. Karen snickered to the older woman. “You had this ready, ahead of time. How did you know I’d show up?”

Anna shrugged. “No talk. Yew eat. Need vill up goot. Bik chob ahead. Ve haff vork hart to mage goal. Now hurry. Sztrech belly more.”

She washed the huge snack down with a full quart of chocolate milk and once again her belly expanded to ludicrous proportions. Finally, Anna was satisfied she was full to bursting. After a two-hour nap, Anna coaxed a tray of brownies and another quart down the hatch, before she sent her home.Anna remarked at the now even more grossly distened belly. “Now loog. Belly ztrech zo yew hold more. Need to keep up evort. Mage zure belly lige this or bikker, avter zupper. Get Roy to help.”

Supper Karen thought to herself. She felt the drum-hard bulge, threatening to burst free from her clothes. That’s the last thing I need. I hope Roy didn’t make anything…

[maltesefalcon]

On his part, Roy was delighted to see her home early that night, and even happier to find out why. He was a bit embarrassed, when Karen admitted she’d blabbed to Roberta. The feeling was mitigated somewhat, when she related Roberta’s little plot, and the fact that she’d basically signed on to help her. He had to bite his lip, when she finally revealed she was now obligated to gain fifteen more pounds. “Can’t chicken out now-bet you just love this don’t you?”

“Well we can’t have you in trouble at work can we? How can I help?”

“Well I already have Anna. Trust me, she’ll keep me on track, I think. But I need to make sure I have your support.” She started to disrobe and asked. “Look how big I’m getting already. Sure you won’t change your mind? I’m not promising I can get it off again. Now or never.”

“Maybe I should feel your belly to see if it’s full.” Hmm he said. “I think we need to top you up. There’s a tray of lasagna in the fridge.” Karen could see that he definitely approved of the situation. Roy was practically salivating at the sight of her.

Karen smiled coyly. “We can work up an appetite together first, if you like.” Without waiting for an answer she grabbed his hand and led him into the bedroom.

Later that night, Karen lived up to her word.Every bit of the lasagna ended up in her belly. Now it was even bigger than when she’d come home, as she rolled over and fell asleep. The smile on her face indicated she was fuily satisfied, in more ways than one.

By morning of course, the swelling had reduced; but not 100%, this time. The routine was working, as her stomach capacity had increased proportionally. That of course meant the layer of fat over it would grow thicker as well. Her two feeders and Roberta, would be delighted at both developments. Karen still had mixed feeling however. She sighed as she tried to find something to wear. Nothing fit, so she kept her pajamas on and she went out looking for her husband.

It was 8:30 already Roy had already left but he’d “made” breakfast, of a sort. While she slept, he’s snuck out and picked up a dozen Danish. There was a note too. “I let you sleep in a bit, but I left you a little treat. Enjoy. Make sure you eat them all. Love Roy”

Oddly enough she was starving, so she thought one or two, why not? Two led to three and eventually she’d finished the lot. She looked down for the evidence of previous sessions.

Just then the phone rang. She thought Roberta’s calling here already-that “holiday” didn’t last long. The voice on the other end brought her back to focus. “Garen. Iz Anna. Yew gome down zoon, yez. Breagfaz ready.”

Karen agreed to come down but warned. “I’m still in my pajamas. I’ve nothing to wear. I’ve outgrown my clothes already.”

Anna asked. “Pajamaz vine vor trip in elevator. Hurry pleaze.” Then the line went dead, before she could object.

Karen entered the old woman’s place and was greated by wonderful smells. Her stomach was growling again, but Anna was already coming to the rescue. “Get bagon from stove. I mage more while yew get ztart.”

Karen retrieved a pound of cooked bacon from the oven and sat down. She didn’t need a hint from Anna that she was expected to eat it all. She didn’t need prompting either, as she devoured it greedily. Finally she pushed the plate back and sighed. “This is the life. I could get used to this.”

Anna scowled at her. “Not vinish. Need gain vun pound every two dayz. Yew eat this too or vaze two vail.”

Karen balked and Anna pushed the issue. “Thiz importan’. No gif up. Bozz be dizapoint. Roy be dizapoint. Anna be dizapoint.”

Sensing defeat, Karen began to eat again. Her stomach was beginning to get that familiar tight feeling, as she finished the second tray. Then, Anna gave her a quart of milk.“Trink qvuick, like bevore.”

Once down the hatch Karen moaned in discomfort. “No more. I ate a dozen Danish as well.”

Anna felt her belly. “Goot girl. Now zleep. Vrom now on yew eat or zleep, that all. Anna know bezt-yew zee.”

Karen was only too happy to do that. She alternated the rest of the day, stuffing herself with the most fattening dishes she could force down, then sleeping it off.

Then Anna sent her home for supper where Roy could take over. Just in case Anna gave her a chocolate cake. It didn’t last long. In fact Karen ate 2 pieces in the elevator on the way up. On the way up she decided that she’d stop complaining. This was easy “work” so she’d do her best to meet the target. The only thing that worried her was that for now, her midsection was getting most of the fringe benefits. She’d hoped that her butt and boobs would take over soon. Time would tell.

So the process continued. The fifth week of her “quest” was much the same as the previous weekend. She would get up with Roy and force a huge breakfast down, some of it hand fed by Roy himself. Most mornings, she would join Anna for “coffee” around ten. Anna would feel her belly and usually they’d do one stuffing/milk session before her morning nap.Normally she would sleep until noon and the two took turns making lunch for each other. She was becoming a better cook and the evidence showed.

At first her body had been depositing the extra calories as fat more or less uniformly; giving her the soft subcutaneous layer she needed but had never had. Now however, the evidence was becoming more localized. Her belly had not shrunk at all, in fact it ws stretching due to the merciless stuffing she’d done to it. But now, she could pinch a growing layer of fat on it as well, which would explain its new 22” circumference. Due to the fact, that she had kept it full most of the time, the rest of her figure was beginning to catch up. She had a puffier face and her arms felt less toned, softer. Her upper thighs were expanding to match and her butt now stood at 35”, a modest gain, but noticeable. She could feel how soft it was getting and began to feel more like a woman.

She felt her chest, which though still decidedly un-womanlike, was showing promise. Her breast area did feel softer, more pliant. She was still in an A-cup, but now those cups actually had a little to hold up. If she stood at just the right angle, a small semi-circular shadow appeared, delineating where her breast line should be. She was a bit surprised to have only gained 5 pounds that week though, bring her to 120. She didn’t realize that she was losing muscle as well as gaining fat, as her body was adapting to the new regime. Not only that; she was reaching the upper limit of the “normal” bmi range.  Most women would have panicked; but that realization made her eat even more.

A week later, she was up to 125. Now, her cheeks were plumper and a matching bulge was beginning to appear under her chin. She had added yet another inch to her belly. Now there was no denying it. The fat layer was thicker, and it stood out prominently from her clothing. At first she was not happy about that development, but got over it when she saw how much Roy loved it. As if in response, it rumbled gently and she began to eat a cream puff, as she finished her inspection tour. Again, her cup size did not appear to have changed much, but the shadow under her proto breasts was deeper and darker now. She felt the belly fat, still wishing that she could move some of it northward.

The third week of her little sabbatical was the tipping point. She finally reached 130 pounds. This was a milestone as now, her BMI meant she was technically in the overweight category.  Like it or not, for the first time in her life, she was officially a “fat girl”.

Anna made her a huge Black Forest Cake to celebrate the the event, and insisted she eat the whole thing. It hadn’t takn much effort, as both the deliciousness of the cake and her increasing appetite, made it impossible to resist.

But there were still mixed feelings about the changes. Looking at the growing belly, now even softer at 23”, she began to have doubts. Those were erased, once she tried to put her street clothes on, to check the progress. Her breasts and torso had grown too large for her bras now. She was not quite there, but would need a B cup from now on. She actually had real breasts for the first time.

She mentioned it to Anna who nodded. “Vhat I tell yew? No buy new braz yet. Geep trink milg all day. Boops get mezzage, get bikker. Yew zee.”  Karen agreed. Her top section was beginning to catch up, and she reasoned that if she gained a few more pounds, they’d get a bigger share now. That thought carried her into the final week.

[maltesefalcon]

Karen New York-May 29/2009

By Friday of that week, she was up to 135, actually exceeding Roberta’s target. (And her own!) Her co-workers would be shocked, at her profound change. Now she measured up at 35-24-37. The change was more profound, as her frame was so tiny, the extra body fat had to fight for space. Made sense, she’d nearly tripled her fat percentage to 40%. Anna congratulated her on reaching the goal her boss had set. She admitted “Yew know Garen yew bad invluenze on me. I gain veight now too-tventy poundz.”

 Karen giggled and admitted, “I didn’t notice.”

Anna took it as a compliment, figuring Karen was just being polite. In fact, she was already so fat, an extra twenty pounds was simply lost on her. It did prompt her to confess. “Garen yew know Anna do thiz for other girlz-many timez. Yew are very jallenging. Moz girlz gain vivty, sigzty pound by now. Never zee anyvun eat like thiz; ztill be zo zkinny.”

Karen stood sideways and pointed at the paunch she had grown. It was already starting to crease in the middle, from the extra 3 inches of fat she had upholstered it with. She patted it playfully, watching it jiggle. It would take a while to get used to. “I don’t think anyone but you, would call this skinny. Maybe Roy…” she corrected. “My God, he can’t keep his hands off…” Then she blushed, realizing she’d said a bit too much. Karen had yet to admit it, but she’d broken her promise to herself, as well. Despite her initial denials, she’d officially become a “fat girl”, nearly 15 pounds ago. And although she didn’t know it at the time, this was just the begininning.

There was no time to muse on this anyway, as she needed to find something to wear. She had lolled around the apartment in pajamas for weeks, and now nothing fit. Not only that, Roberta would arrive in twenty minutes to pick her up, as agreed. Excusing herself, she ran up to her place, to change.

Desperate, she threw on a pair of baggy sweats, topped with one of Roy’s old dress shirts. Even at this weight, the shirt was much too big. At least it covered her belly, and with the sleeves rolled up she could function. No underwear though, it was much too small now. She was just arranging herself when the doorbell rang.

Roberta acted nonchalant about her recent growth, obvious even through the baggy outfit. Expecting only a few pounds more, she’d been prepared to scold Karen, on the meagre progress. This result was much better than she’d hoped. Maybe she needed to meet this Anna, she was a force to be reckoned with. For now, she simply smiled and said “Ready?” The elevator ride was singularly silent,as was the first five minutes of the car ride. Roberta picked up the intercom and spoke to, her chauffeur. “Take the scenic route Marcel. I need a few extra minutes.”

“Very good madam” was the reply, as he turned onto a secondary road. Roberta reached into the onboard fridge and pulled out a bottle of champagne. She popped it and offered Karen a glass.

Karen took it and stared sullenly. Roberta snickered. “Only works if you drink it, honey.”

Karen snorted. “It’s only 9am, what’s this for.”

“Well I thought it might loosen you up a bit. You have a face like a spanked baby. Everything okay?”

Karen sighed. “I’m not sure.” She sipped the champagne for courage and added.”All I’ve been doing for the last month-two months really, is eat. Oh-and think about how fat I’m getting. Actually, see for yourself.” She lifted the shirt to reveal the bulge underneath. Roberta gasped slightly but her “project” didn’t pick up on it. “Maybe I made a big mistake, letting you and Roy talk me into this.”

Now worried her little plan would come apart Roberta asked  “Mistake, what’s wrong, honey?”

Karen began to well up. She patted the prominent belly and exclaimed. “Are you blind? This is what’s wrong. I feel fat. I look fat. Face it, I am fat. I checked my BMI chart yesterday- puts me 15 pounds into the overweight zone for my height.” She sighed. “I should have checked, before we spoke last time. Technically, I was already fat, when I agreed to take part in your plot.”

Roberta shrugged. “Hey don’t blame all this on me, you started it on your own. The extra fifteen was something you and Roy had agreed to already. I gave you a month off, to do just that. I’m just using the situation to my advantage. So are you, my dear. Never forget that.”

“Not blaming you, don’t worry.” Karen waved her off and nodded in agreement. “I know. It worked too, I’m at 135, which exceeds the goal you set for me for the month. Odd thing, though. I only gained a bit more at home going full out, than I did while I was working. The extra effort hardly seems worth it.”

Roberta shook her head. “Help me out here. Are you mad because you think you’re fat; or because it isn’t happening fast enough? Or because you think both of those things, are somehow my fault?”

Karen sat for a moment and sipped her champagne. “Guess it is a bit silly. At least one person will be happy, though. Roy loves it, of course.” Changing the subject she added “Where are we going?”

“You’ll see in a minute. Let’s get one thing clear though. You have put on a few pounds; but they just make you look better, more feminine. It just takes a while to get used to.”

“That’s what Anna said.” Karen nodded.

“Smart woman.” Roberta filled her glass once again. She needed to choose her words carefully, now. If she angered or scared the younger woman, the whole project would go out the window. “One more thing. I don’t want to hear any more talk of you being “fat”. Voluptuous maybe, but you are not fat.” Then she thought to herself. Certainly not fat enough, that’s for sure.Not yet anyway. We’ll see about that.

The car pulled into a large parking lot and the sign indicated Botticelli’s. “What’s this place?”

Her host elaborated. “Central warehouse, for all our stores. At our last lunch, I told you we’d fix you up with a new wardrobe.” Then quickly she whispered. “Sorry, I had to clue our Mary in to the situation, somewhat. She knows what you are doing-but thinks it’s for me. You want to tell her more, it’s up to you.”

“Mary? Who’s she?”

Roberta noted the hint of alarm, in Karen’s voice. “Manages the place. Very discreet. You’ll like her, trust me.”

The two women were shown into the building and a spritely, fiftyish woman greeted them. Mary Campford had run this warehouse for years and knew it inside and out. “Everything is ready, come through.” They strolled through the racks of clothing, until they came to an enclosed area in back.

Karen asked again “What have we got here?”

Roberta explained. “Private dressing room and studio. They use it for press releases and private showings, for rich clients or buyers. Once Mary locks the door, we’ll be only ones here. Marcel will wait in the car.”

Mary stood poised with her tape, expecting Karen to respond. She asked “You want something from me?”

Professional models were used to this routine, and Mary thought Karen knew the drill. “Yes dear. I’m going to measure you up.” Karen still made no movement.  Mary added “Easiest way is to drop everything, down to your bra and panties.”

Karen blushed.” I’m not actually wearing any. Nothing fits anymore.”

Before Roberta could respond, Mary blurted. “Even better. We’ll start with that. Don’t worry dear, we’ll have something nice, that fits perfectly.” Then, she walked over and began to unbutton the overlarge shirt.

Stepping back in alarm, Karen flushed. “Whoa, hold the phone. I am not stripping in front of you two, job or not. What do you think I am?”

Roberta interjected “Sorry Mary. Karen, Mary is a professional. Please, it’s the best way.”

Karen was still reluctant. She stood defiant with arms crossed. Realizing that she would have to take a slower approach, Mary said, “Why don’t we let you try on a few things on your own?” What size are you dear?”

Wtihout missing a beat Karen blurted out “Zero. No, two now.”

Roberta stifled the instinct to giggle; but wanted to keep the situation from becoming tense. “That would be your old size Karen. I would expect that you would need something…larger now. That’s why we’re here. Why don’t we start with some work stuff?  Maybe size 8?

That revelation did nothing to improve Karen’s outlook. “I am not a size 8.” she pouted. “Let’s try a 4.”

Mary offered. “If I may, let me measure you for a bra and panties first. I think I can do it over those items and get close.”

Karen agreed and Mary came back with a few of each, in varying sizes. “Here dear. There’s a small dressing room around the corner. Come out with the ones that fit best.”

Karen did that and somewhat calmed, came back in her new underwear. Mary eyed her and with expert touch, picked out a smart grey wool skirt, and pink cardigan. “Try these.”

In a few minutes, Karen returned. “There, these are actually a bit loose. I could have sworn I’d be at least a 4.”

“Afraid not dear.” Mary shook her head. “Roberta was close-you’re not quite an 8, but you’ll be there soon, I think.”

The expensive clothes fit well and looked great on her, but Karen was uneasy about that size 8 revelation. She said “Well this is what Roy agreed to, hope he’ll be happy.”

Roberta corrected, “Thought you had compromised on ten. Anyway, that’s for work. Needs to fit looser. Home stuff can be up to you.”

Karen looked in the mirror. Despite herself she smiled and said. “Looks fine, actually.”

Mary said “Would look better if I fitted you. Trust me? There’s no one else here, honest.”

Karen nodded and Mary went about her duties, measuring every part of her. Then, she hopped on the scale. 136. She had gained another pound, since yesterday.

Mary said “Okay we start from inside out. That underwear is too small.” She rummaged in a box of items and found a bra and a pair of matching panties, thong cut. “Go put that on and we’ll start from there. Hurry.”

Karen did as she was told and scurried back. She jiggled out and Roberta was sitting in a chair munching on cake when she came out. There was a small trolley, with assorted treats and another bottle of champagne. “Where’s Mary?”

“She’ll be back in a minute. She had to download your measurements into the computer, for the best fit. Roberta checked out those measurements visually herself, now. Without the outer clothing, the increased size was obvious. Roberta concealed her delight at the progress-so far.

Time to up the ante. “Come have a snack. I’m sure you’re hungry ,by now.” Not used to such a long time without food, Karen was hungry, so grabbed a piece and started eating. One piece led to another, then three. Then, she went for some more champagne and Roberta offered “Just one more piece left.” Karen demurred but Roberta patted her belly and said “I think you have room in there.” She grabbed the piece in her own hand and held it in front of Karen’s face. At first she refused, then finally grabbed it and polished it off.

She looked for a towel and rubbed the evidence of her gluttony away. Lucky for her, Mary had not been here to witness this embarrassing display.  Lucky indeed. She had been in hiding, secretly photographing the whole situation. With a bit of judicial editing, it would look like Karen had eaten the entire cake, with Roberta practically forcing the last on her.

Mary finally returned when Karen was on her third glass of champagne.  They tried on a few more outfits for work and got the sizes worked out. Mary did her hair and nails, adding a little makeup for a finishing touch. The older women had deliberately picked expensive outfits and the effect worked. Mary asked “What do you think?”

Karen stood in the mirror and nodded. “Not bad, actually. Might I say…alluring?”

Roberta corrected. “I’d say you look sexy. Damn sexy, in fact. Still think this was a mistake? Okay, we need to try one more thing” said Roberta. “Try the first outfit on. In a six, this time.”

Her inhibitions reduced somewhat, Karen simply dropped her clothes on the floor, donning the smaller version of the sweater and skirt combo. This time, there was a striking difference. “These are too small, look how stretched out they look. It makes me look fatter than I already am.” she said angrily.

“That’s the point” Roberta offered. “We want you to look like you’re growing bigger. It’s an illusion. Unless…you want to keep doing the real thing.”

Karen muttered. “No thanks.”

Roberta walked over and to Karen’s shock, she started to adjust Karen’s bra. “You’ve got it hooked too tight. Why do women with big boobs insist on crushing them in like this?”

Karen’s jaw dropped. “You think I have big boobs? Really? They’re barely a C cup”

Mary shrugged. “You have a tiny frame. C cup for you is pretty big in my opinion.”

Karen grabbed them playfully and offered. “Sorry not used to having these.Went from an A to a C, in 4 weeks, so it’s a new experience.”

“Hmm. Good or bad?” Roberta was playing her along.

“Well, good obviously. Much as I hate to admit it, Anna was right. I didn’t regret being flat chested; because I didn’t know what I was missing. Now, it’s different.  I like the sensation as they move around and I like how they feel. Roy does too, come to mention it.” Then she blushed. “That didn’t come out the way I meant.” Then she rolled her eyes. “Actually maybe it did, but I’m not complaining.”

Roberta smiled. “Don’t worry, I know exactly what you are talking about. So there is an upside to filling out a bit. We do know what we’re doing, you know. Speaking of Roy, now we do the play clothes.” To wear home they settled on a size six pair of red leggings, no bra and a red tube top, size 4 this time. She stuck out and jiggled in every direction. Karen laughed when she saw herself. “Oh my God, I look like a hooker!”

Roberta scolded her. “It’s a bit slutty, but not that bad. We could put the original size eight work stuff on. I’m sure Roy would prefer that…”

Karen waved her off. “You know as well as I do; that Roy will be delighted to see me in this. Leave it be.”

Roberta nodded. “Every man with a heartbeat, would be delighted to see you in this, honey. I’ll let Mary pick out some more outfits and we’ll have them delivered in the morning. Alright lets’s go get some lunch.”

Karen agreed. “I’m starved. But nothing fancy. This outfit’s fun, but definitely not G-rated.”

Roberta agreed. “Actually, you read my mind. We need to talk in private, anyway.” During the limo ride Karen had the last of the champagne, as they arrived at the lunch locale. It turned out to be Roberta’s house.

Karen smirked as Roberta offered. “I have stuff all ready, we just need to heat it up.”

“Not too much now, I’m done with this gaining. I know you.” Karen countered, but helped heat the meal, all the same.

Roberta had made a tray of Manicotti and despite her earlier objecxtions, Karen ate most of it. After 4 servings, plus of course half a pie for dessert, there was time for a glass of wine. Karen sat back and massaged her belly contendedly. “Ah that was delicious. Bet that put another five pounds on.”

Roberta jumped on that. “I know you’re exaggerating, but how would you feel if it really happened?”

[maltesefalcon]

Karen stopped with her glass in mid air. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Her spider sense began to tingle-for good reason it would turn out.

Roberta continued. “I was getting the distinct impression earlier today; that were you not going any further with this…situation. Maybe even that you’d made a mistake. Still feel that way?”

“Maybe. Why?”

“I have a vested interest in this as you know; but you’ve more than fulfilled your commitment to me. You did tell me you’d promised Roy size 10. You have a way to go for that.”

Karen pondered. “I know. It’s been bothering me a bit. How much more do you think…”

Roberta decided to go for broke. “You’re on the cusp between 6 and 8 at your current weight. Depending on how you do the math, 2 more sizes would be 30 pounds-3 sizes, maybe fifty.” Then, she let it sink in before adding. “Remember what you said about getting bigger up top- how much you liked it? Let me share something with you. When I was a model, I was skinny and flat as a board.” She left the room briefly and returned with a small shoebox. Opening it she rummaged through what appeared to be a collection of photos. “Ah, this should do it, one of my lingerie shoots.” The photo sailed across the table and Karen picked it up to examine it. She stared at the photo of a 20ish woman in bra and panties. Looking up and down she compared Roberta to the photo several times and finally said. “If I didn’t see it for myself, I’d never know.”

Roberta offered.”Okay next one. This is me, eight months pregnant for my oldest daughter.” Karen expected the usual loose top and stretch pants. Instead, she was in a bikini on what looked like the French Riviera. “Notice anything different?”

Karen tried to find the words. “Well you are somewhat..bigger.”

“That’s an understatement. I’m 30 pounds fatter. Note I said fatter-the baby weight is on top of that. Look at my face. But more important, look here.” Karen was already looking. Roberta had gone from no breasts at all to humungous knockers.

Before she could say anything, Roberta added. “I told you before, I lost the most of the weight, but these stayed. I managed to keep my job, in spite of that. But I got pregnant again, so they got bigger. This is me after Becky.” She had a picture of a somewhat plumper woman, with huge breasts. “Before you ask, I think I was a 44E around then. I retired after that. Few more kids and lots of time home cooking for them and well here I am. These are off the scale now.”

Karen crossed her arms. “I’ll welcome motherhood when and if it comes. Not for lack of trying. But I’m not getting pregnant, just to have bigger boobs.”

Roberta calmed her. “No one is asking you to. But lots of pregnant women gain fifty pounds, or more. Your body is just adjusting to its new proportions, and if you gain any more, a good chunk of it will end up right there. Based on my own experience, if you did what Roy asked, you’d be heading for DD territory. Only 2% of women can say that, not many on so small a frame either. Double D’s on you will look amazing!”

Karen pondered. “Fifty pounds-I don’t know. But I could carry on a bit longer-full C would be nice.It’s weird, now that I have boobs, these don’t seem big enough.”

“Nothing weird about that at all. Perfectly natural, you’re just making up for lost time. As far as a C-cup goes,  I think you’re more or less there now, but D would be nicer. Meet me halfway? Twenty pounds-maybe twenty five? Look honey, I need you to maintain the illusion for a while longer, so Helen will get the message.”

Karen looked at the orbs swelling under the tube top and sighed. “Why not?” Even at 20 extra pounds, she’d just agreed to get up to 50% body fat, well into the obese range. Roberta knew that, but did not let on. She hoped that once she’d crossed that threshold, her appetite, and Roy’s delight would push her onward.

Karen surprised her then. “Might as well get started, now. What else you got?”

“That’s my girl!” Roberta smiled. “It’ll have to be to go, I need to make some calls.” She rummaged around and found a box of Krispy Kreme. “Here, eat these on the way home. Marcel will drive you. By the way, we need to come up with a script of some kind for Monday.”

Karen waved her off. “Don’t worry, I’ll follow your lead.” Then, she was gone, tucking into the donuts before she even got into the car. She arrived as the last one disappeared; and looked at the belly, now pooched out even further. It gave her an idea.

Instead of going to the apartment, she stopped at Anna’s. The old woman was shocked at her attire, and did her best not to snicker. “Garen yew loog divernt. That outvit too zmall.”

“I know” winked Karen “It’s a treat for Roy. There’s something I need to talk to you about too.” Entering the room Anna waited for an explanatiuon. “I had lunch with my boss today. It would seem-well, Roy’s wishes notwithstanding, we are not done yet.”

“Egzplain pleaze. No understan’.”

Karen added. “Roy wanted more; but I was going to stop here. That’s why the outfit, makes me look bigger. But Roberta and I had a talk today. She’s asked me to get bigger, and I agreed.”

Anna controlled her impulse to smile. “I zee. How mudge bikker?”

Karen explained. “She told me I needed to gain another 50 pounds, to achieve Roy’s size 10 pipe dream. I’m still not doing that; but I’ll do 20 pounds more. Then, she corrected “Actually 25 if memory serves. So…”

“Yew need me to help. Zure ov courze.” Anna concealed her delight at that. “But vhy yew do vor bozz and not osbant? Zomzing yew no tell me yez?”

Karen pulled the tube top up a bit, as the budding boobflesh strained to get out. “Maybe I’m really doing this for myself as well. Roberta did make me realize you were right about something else. Now that I have real breasts, I’m feeling more womanly. These aren’t big enough and I’m ready for more.” She held her hands out indicating her desired cup size. “This ought to be fine. Implants are gross, so there’s only one other way.”

Anna smiled. “Yez. Ve need vaten yew up more. Be my pleazure.”

“You needn’t gloat. But yes, you’re right.  Despite my earlier protests to the contrary, I actually want to get fatter-but just a little.”

Anna clapped and offered. “Good ve zelebrate.”

Karen patted her belly. “Sorry, not yet. But I want to get the full effect, from this getup. Roy will be home at six. I want to walk in with just the right…attitude.”

“Stuvvink?”

“Ultimate stuffing. Do your worst. I want this belly to stick out like a beach ball.”

“Good yew haff nap, I vake you in plenty time.”

Anna woke her at 3 and offered a light snack, a six-slice pizza, washed down with a smooth shake. Then, another nap till 5:30. The stuffing this time started with three huge helpings and two quarts of the milk/cream mixture. But it was getting harder to stretch her stomach, as it could already hold so much by now.

Anna smiled. “Ve vinish vor now.”

Karen looked down at the huge bulge over her midsection and shook her head. “Nope. I still have room. I need to stretch it out more anyway; if I’m to gain that extra weight. What else you got?”

For once her “teacher” was unprepared. “Oh. Let me loog.” She rummaged in the cupboard, finally finding a 2 pound jar of peanut butter. She asked  “Yew lige peanut budder?”

Karen nodded and Anna had a brainstorm. She sprayed a whole can of whipped cream into a bowl, then grabbed a box of crackers. She spread a few with the peanut butter and dipped one in the whipped cream. “Zecret iz-eat vast. I mage- yew eat.” Karen began to wolf them down and Anna made more, as fast as possible. It took half an hour; but she ate the whole jar of peanut butter and a box of crackers.

Then, as Karen sat back belching in contentment, Anna advised “Vun more ztep.” She took a quart of salad oil and whizzed in a blender, with Raspberry coolade mix, sugar and couple shots of sherry.

Handing the entire beaker to Karen she nodded. “Trink vast. Yew vant ztomach ztredge-thiz do it.”

Karen grimaced. “The taste…”

Anna assured her. “Try liddle. Be zurpize. Yew zee.”

Karen stuck her finger into the “drink” and tasted it. It was good! The introduction of air and extra flavouring, overwhelmed the oily taste. Buoyed by her smile, Anna advised“Trink quicg now. It zoak into grackers-swell ztomach big. Trink very vatten too. Ve need mage zome every day, now.”

Karen downed the mixture as quickly as possible. Finally, she was full and admitted so. “Whoa. May have overdone it, this time. My belly feels like it is going to expode.”

Anna shook her head. “No ezplode. But not ofer, yet. Vait.”

As if following her cue, Karen’s belly began to tighten, then swell as the fluid assimilated into the dry ingredients. Her stomach bloated so fast, she could actuall see it happening. Slightly panicked, she looked up. “Is this normal?”

Anna shrugged. “Normal az pozzible, in zituation. Don’ vorry yew vine. How yew veel now?”

“Like a human Jiffy Pop pan!” Karen gazed down as the belly reached its outer limit. She stood and gasped as she realized she looked 6 months pregnant. “Well Roy will love it. I hope…”

“Roy lucky man, I zink.” Anna advised. “Belly bik enuv now. Mebbee time to ztop ztredge, let boobz gatch up. Just geep vull now. Yew body do rest. Ve talg tomorrow-time to go, now. Led osbant zee bevore svell vade.”

Karen nodded but added. “I don’t think this swelling will go down for a while. If at all.”

Anna shushed her. “Yew have nap-appetite gome bag qvuig-yew zee. Mage zure Roy goog yew goot zupper. Eat all. Gome early domorrow. Zunday too. Mage bozz happy if yew show goot progrezz, by Monday. Don’ vorry, yew be 25 poundz fatter, in no time. Nize bik boobz, too.”

The parting words rang in Karen’s head the whole trip in the elevator. Now virtually waddling, due to her swollen torso, she crossed the threshold, just as Roy walked out of the bedroom. He was just changing from work and one sight of her tarted up in the tight clothes, belly protruding out nearly a foot farther than it had this morning, was all he needed.

[maltesefalcon]

Helen Rio May 30/2009

Three weeks have flown by. Time for the final selection. Of course, Connie selected the 11 plumpest, plus Raynha. The one named Soladad smoothed her skirt over her massive hips, bragging “See, I have done well. I am bigger even than Raynha.” It was true, but only just.  The chastened rebel had expanded her behind to 50 inches through superhuman gluttony, adding an extra 22 pounds. Soladad had been somewhat plumper to start with, and ended up with a 52-inch girth.

However, the effect on Ranha was more pronounced, since her waistline had only a slight extra belly bulge.  In fact, she kind of liked the new look and announced. “I think I will put on a few more, if it is alright. I think I can convince most of the others to do likewise. If...”

Connie sensed the next question, but let her continue.

“If you take all of us. The smallest are still quite plump. I think…”

After an appropriate pause, Connie waved her hand. “You win. I will leave you in charge and expect regular reports and progress.”

Raynha slipped closer. “Your friend seems to be enjoying the food here, too. She is filling out quite a bit. Is she going to be modelling, too?”

Connie looked over at Zora, chuckling. On her normal income, she’d never be able to afford to stay or eat at a place like this. The Portuguese translator had taken advantage of a rare opportunity; stuffing herself nearly to bursting at every meal. She was now 35 pounds heavier and couldn’t wait to get home to her husband, to show off the newfound curves. “Zora’s not a friend-we barely know each other. And no, she’s not going to be one of you, no matter how much she gains. She’s lacking some of the other attributes…”

Raynha laughed in interruption. “Not Zora of course. I mean your girlfriend. She has a nice plump bottom. If she wasn’t a blond, I’d be sure she had Brazilan blood.”

Connie spoke quietly but sharply to her. “Not sure what you are driving at; but she’s a…colleague, that’s all. And if her backside has filled out a bit, I wouldn’t mention it. American women don’t have the same reaction to such news as you would. Hmm. Maybe she has,” as she made a point of looking her over. “Hadn’t noticed until now.”

Raynha nodded, but seemed a bit unconvinced over several of Connie’s statements. But no point in dwelling on it, it was none of her business and she’d probably never see Helen again, anyway.

Connie snapped the conversation back to their own issues. “I’m going back to Milan tomorrow, to get some designs ready. First show in the fall. Make sure you are ready. Zora can help you with the organization and logistics.”

Connie grabbed Helen and dragged her out; before the roomful of girls could react. No one, not even Helen, realized that she was delighted with the progress of even the smallest; and she had never had any intention of letting any go. The threat had been enough to make them see the light. Even Zora would make out alright. Connie hired her full-time to act as a local liason and sort of den mother to the younger girls. With the kind of money she’d pull in now, she’d be sure not to risk her job. None of her charges would get away with losing weight any time soon.

Raynha for her part was now committed. More so, since she had actually cheated. She had been a fairly thin girl until 2 years ago. She’d decided on her own to put on weight; but like most women was unhappy about how it ended up distributing itself.

Last year, she had filled out a little on top but not as much on her butt, the exact opposite of her goal. As a result, she had gone for liposuction and removed most of the fat in her belly, upper arms and under her chin. She’d even gone for the experimental procedure of having it re-injected back into her buttocks for more pronounced contrast. Soon as she could, she would repeat the process.

By the time of the first show she had gained another 40 pounds; but with most of her fat cells gone south, she was measuring an impossible 36B-24-72. Even Connie was shocked when she saw her next and insisted on an examination for implants. Finding none, she still saw the tiny scars that betrayed her sculpting. But she was so happy with the end result, she let it slide.

Then the young Brazilian put the too much of good thing cliché to the test. She was enjoying the good life her new fame and income brought, and once again, she felt uncomfortable. Another 15 pounds came off and went south, bringing her to 35-22-79. Comfortable now, she decided to keep things like that.

However, she forgot two important things. Women’s fat cells can divide and expand as they age, and not at the same rate everywhere. Not only that, if she becomes pregnant, the difference becomes accelerated. The average woman with 25 pounds of body fat would have 15 of them on her hips and thighs. Most could expect that fat area to double over the gestation period, so adding 15 more pounds.

At 23, she became pregnant with her first child, and of course her natural hormones took over. With 90% of her body fat below the waist, her fat cells there took off like a storm. By the end of the pregnancy she was 40 pounds heavier, but 35 pounds of that extra fat was on her ass.  She could not believe the change in such a short time, her hips now at 89”. Still, she looked desirable despite her difficulty in manoureveriing the bulk around. Her husband obviously had no complaint, as she was in the same situation a mere six months later. By the time she’d retired from active modelling, she was 47 pounds more and a half inch shy of 100” around.

Connie for her part thought more carefully about what Raynha had said. She was right about a few things and Connie gave her credit for being more observant than she’d realized.  Helen would get the picture soon as well; and Connie wondered what Helen’s attitude would be, once the truth came out. She would not have long to wait.

They had a rough flight home. The plane was late taking off and then it had a mechanical problem, so they’d made an unscheduled landing in Lisbon. Two hours on the runway were followed by 6 hours layover, waiting for a new plane.

The pair had spent most of those 6 hours in the departure lounge and by the time the plane took off, Helen was feeling no pain. She and Connie had a few more cocktails on the flight and the effects of fatigue and alcohol lulled her to sleep.

She awoke with Connie shaking her shoulder and realized she’d had her head in her lap.

Still groggy, the pair finally got to their room in the hotel and Connie went in to find Helen snoring on the sofa.

With some difficulty, she roused her and helped her get ready for a well deserved sleep.

[maltesefalcon]

Karen-New York -June1/2009

Monday arrived and as planned, the two arrived together. Roberta was tailed by her new mini-me carrying a large briefcase in one hand and munching on a donut with the other. They sauntered into the office and Karen nonchalantly bid passers by good morning, while they simply did a double take and stared.

Karen walked right by her desk and the pair went into Roberta’s office and she closed the door.The junior employee looked at her co-conspirator and giggled. “See the look on their faces…”

Roberta said, “Okay funs’s over. This is serious business. You know as well as I do, that Helen is going to do whatever it takes to get that job. Right now, she thinks she’s the only contender. If we burst that bubble right away, she’ll do what she has to do. Let’s get started.”

First she sent out an email to all staff, including of course a copy to Helen.

“Due to my increasing workload with the new product launch, Karen Rogers will be on temporary assignment as project coordinator. She will work out of Helen Weele’s office in her absence, as required. We are on a tight timeline and I expect we shall have the program ready to launch shortly. Please do not pester her with questions, as this is a need-to-know project. If you have any issues with this policy or any concerns, please contact me directly.”

She clicked send and Roberta opined. “There. That will keep you from the pack, while still allowing them to get a look at you. Now, it’s vital you not communicate directly with Helen at all. I’m depending on the office gossip trail to do the job for me.” On that note, she stared through the long glass side panel of her office, to see if anyone was watching. Nearly everyone was pretending to work, but she could see them try to steal glimpses though the door.

Karen nodded. “So your game plan is to somehow use my personal situation, to trick Helen into this? You have to admit it is a little underhanded.”

Roberta nodded. “Let’s just say persuade. That’s why I want her to find out through the grapevine. Otherwise, she’ll be suspicious it’s a trick. If it makes you feel better, she did turn me down on the original offer-twice in fact. You were there. If she sticks to her guns, no harm-no foul, right? If she changes her mind though; it would only be because she doesn’t want you to have the job, either.”

“Hadn’t really thought of it like that, but you’re right. If she does it now, it would really be out of spite.” Karen agreed. “What about my present job? Helen’s not here, so I had little to do as it was. If I can’t contact her, now I don’t even have that. What am I going to do with myself all day?”

Perfect timing thought the boss. “Glad you asked. We’ll find some new projects you can do for me, but for now…let’s just say you’re an actress, and I expect you to be as convincing in this role, as possible. Feel free to ad-lib and offer the appropriate amount of resistance and protest. But no laughing and don’t get too upset with me, if things seem a little unorthodox at times. Remember, it’s not you I’m really speaking to. It’s them. If everyone out there thinks this is real, Helen will have to be convinced.”

“If we can’t talk to her, how’s she going to find out? And even if she does, will it change her mind? Even more important, if she changes her mind, how will we know?”

“Not sure yet. Leave that to me.” Roberta had been wracking her brain for the same reason, and still had no sure-fire answers.

Karen advised. “One more thing. This may be play acting to you, but the end result for me is all too real.” She patted her paunch for effect. “No prosthetics now. This will still be here, when it’s all over. More, in fact. I gained 3 more pounds over the weekend. I’m up to 139 now. I’ll have that extra 25 pounds on, in  no time.”

Roberta nodded. “You don’t need to rub it in. Remember, this was originally your idea. I thought this would be a fun diversion for you. Don’t forget, you’ve spent the last month on my payroll, doing nothing but eat. I’m prepared to continue that arrangement, if you like. Just so we are clear, I’m not forcing you to cooperate, but I need to know if you’ll go the distance. If you back out now, no harm done, either way. If you do it later, or the real plan gets out, we may both end up with a lot of egg on our face.”

Karen shook her head. “A deal’s a deal. Just don’t push me too far or I’ll push back.”

“That’s fair. I will certainly try.In the meantime, lets get this show on the road. I’ll be right back. Finish your donuts.” In twenty minutes she returned, with a tray of brownies. Leaving the door ajar she handed them to Karen and said “Down the hatch girl. You’re overdue.” She winked as she turned her back to the “audience”.

Karen picked up her cue. Loud enough for a few eavesdroppers to catch, she pleaded “All of them?”

“Yep. Hurry we need to meet someone in an hour.” Karen actually did eat all but two, without coaxing. Then Roberta grabbed the last two and held them up. “Come on Karen we talked about this, already. This isn’t going to work, if I have to keep badgering you to cooperate. You need to finish this please. I know you have room left.  With difficulty, she did manage to get them down. Then Roberta “realized” the door was open a bit and closed it, just in time.”

Karen smiled. “Think they bought it?”

Roberta snuck a furtiive gaze out the window pane. Nearly everyone had stopped what they were doing and were staring intently at the scene.“Probably. We need to keep it up, though. You can go in Helen’s office for a bit. Look busy. Read some emails, you’ve been off a month. Don’t respond to anyone out there. Got it?” Karen made the short trip into her new office and out of the corner of her eye, she could see the staff doing their best to not notice her. She paused for effect at the doorway, to rub her belly and belch inaudibly before going in, acknowledging no one.

The door now closed, Jill Partridge from theAdvertising Department exclaimed. “Whoa, did you see how fat she is? She must have gained fifty pounds on her vacation.”

 Norm Daniels in accounting opined. “I think I know how. Roberta is coercing her into it for some reason. She practically forced those brownies down her throat.”

Then, the suggestions poured out from all around. Maybe she’s sick. Maybe she’s gay and Roberta’s her lover. They look like clones now.  Then Jill thought. Maybe she’s pregnant. That ended it. Everyone was satisfied they had arrived at the answer. For now.

[maltesefalcon]

At 9:30 three visitors came in, carrying a garment bag. Two were men, immaculately dressed, conversing in a language everyone assumed to be Italian. The third visitor, a thirtyish woman, was also immaculately dressed in a skirt suit. She was quite enormous, dwarfing even Roberta. She waddled in through the crowd of desks into Roberta’s office.Jill noticed her but was so big she needed to walk at an angle to avoid bumping into the desks and she’d barely fit through the doorway of Roberta’s office.

“Oh my God!” gasped Jill. “Did you see her? That’s thefattest woman I’ve ever seen. Even Roberta’s skinny next to her.” Everyone strained their ears, to hear any tidbit of conversation. Meanwhile, the whole staff did their best to look busy, while sneaking peaks through the glass.

The visitors chatted with Roberta for awhile and then she paged Jill. “Do me a favour. There is a box in the lobby. Bring it into Karen’s office and help her with it please.

Jill did as instructed, knocking on Karen’s door. She entered to find Karen fussing with her skirt. It was a bit tight and she had trouble finding a comfortable position. “What’s up?”

Jill cleared her throat. “Package for you. Roberta said to help you with it.”

Karen waved her in and closed the door. Opening it, she saw it was another suit, blue this time. She buzzed Roberta on the intercom. “What’s with this stuff.”

Roberta replied. “Put it on best you can and come in here. We have guests. Get Jill to help you.”

Karen sneered more for Jill’s attention than Roberta’s. “I can dress myself thank you. I don’t need help and I’m little self conscious for obvious reasons...”

Roberta smiled. Karen was good at ad libbing. “Look don’t argue. Get her to help, it may be harder than you think. Just get it on quickly as you can and get in here. We have guests and they’re waiting.” Jill for her part, made no motion to leave.

Karen sighed. She knew why Roberta insisted on a helper. After the fat suit episode, she wanted a witness, to verify her actual growth. “You heard her. Lock the door please. Bad enough you see me like this.” Karen stripped off her skirt and sweater, leaving her dressed only in bra and panties.

Jill saw first hand the bulging belly, the cellulite beginning to accumulate on her thighs and the slight stretch marks on her torso.She resisted the urge to gasp, realizing that this was no illusion. Not this time.She asked “Are you pregnant?”

Karen shook her head. “No of course not. Not that it’s any of your business.” She did not elaborate further, hoping her tone was sullen enough for Jill to take the hint.

It was not. “What on earth is going on and who are those people…”

Karen looked at her with a hint of insouciance. “Nothing is going on. Why? And how would I know who they are. I haven’t laid eyes on them yet.”

Jill tried to find the words. “Well you’re so…I mean not as big as the other woman is… Oh never ,mind.”

The two managed to get Karen into the blouse and suit, but the end result was not terrific. Leaving Jill behind and doing the best she could to hold herself together, she crept in wearing the suit, which turned out to be identical in style, fabric and colour to that of the much larger stranger. Only problem it was a twelve, and the loose fit make her look like a scarecrow.

Karen began to introduce herself. “Hi I’m Karen. I’m not sure what you want me to do with this…”

She was rudely interrupted. The older male guest gestured dramatically and began to curse in Italian. Then he pointed at the larger woman and had her model her own version provocatively. He squeezed her buttocks and patted her belly then even hoisted her massive breasts, to show how much better she filled out her own garments.Then they made a big production of measuring both women and finally weighing them. He made a few notes and handed them to Roberta while shaking his head. His two companions never uttered a peep.

 No one could understand what he was saying; but the tone was not lost on anyone, Karen especially. Had she not known this was all an act, she would have started crying. The trio left quickly with the agitated man muttering half-obscenities all the way, leaving Karen to deal with her boss. Karen quietly whispered. Mind telling me what that was all about? If you want my help this better not happen...

Roberta shushed her. “It was all an act-for them. Sorry I didn’t tell you, but I wanted you to look genuinely shocked. I think it worked.”

“You’re right on that count. Who the hell were they?”

“Promise not to tell? The quiet guy is my gardener. The woman is Carol, my youngest.”

Karen tried not to smirk. “Should have known. I see the resemblence, now. Like mother, like daughter.”

Roberta shook her head. “Not really. She’s always been a big girl. You weighed in at 139 today. Carol was bigger than that in 4^th grade. She was already bigger than I am now, in high school. I think part of the reason I never slimmed down, was to support her, once I realized she’d always be a big girl.”

Then Karen asked. “Why don’t you ask her…”

“Several reasons. Don’t want to be my daughter’s boss. No good will come of it, since she knows nothing about the businiess. She’s got 4 kids to look after, and they need her home. And honestly, despite our little play act here, shes simply overqualified in the physical department. None of the stuff will fit her.” Then, a sly smile. “She can’t travel much anyway. She’s on the no-fly list.”

Roberta pretended to read the document the agitated man had left behind, as she hummed nonchalantly. “Looks like she’s broken the 700 pound barrier again.”

Karen asked innocently. “Oh she’s gained?”

Roberta shook her head. “No, she’s on the way down. In fact, she’s more than 150 pounds smaller. Give her a few months though. She’ll gain it back.”

Karen rolled her eyes. “Alright I’ll ask. How’d she get on the no fly list? She doesn’t look like an Al Quaida recruit.”

“Nope just too big. They do have special seats for bigger people now, but once you get over a certain size, even they are no good. They won’t let you on most flights, due to safety issues. It takes too long to get in and out of the plane. Carol barely fits though a doorway now, the aisle is out of the question.Only way she can travel now, is on cargo planes. They have jump seats, but no aisles to clog up. Oh, before you ask, blabbermouth is my dry cleaner. He and I need to have a little talk. I’m not too happy about the way he was pawing my daughter, just now.”

Karen smirked. “She didn’t seem to mind. From what I saw, she was enjoying it.”

“Oh, I saw it too. That what I’m bothered about. She’s married and I want to have a little mother- daughter talk. Anyway that’s not for here. Now…show time. I need to give me your best.” Roberta started to scold her about her weight and how important this was. The performance was so convincing that Karen actually began to cry even though she knew it was not real.

 Now Roberta just switched horses and gave her a hug, drying her tears. Through the glass the others could see her patting the girls belly and pulling at the fabric of the skirt. Karen was nodding and then left to go into her office. Once the door had closed, Roberta came into the outer office. Jill got up to check on Karen, but a wicked stare from Roberta, put her back down. “You all have work to do. Get to it and mind your business, or go home. Now!”Having cowed the masses, she stormed out. Twenty minutes later she was back, with two subs and two large pizzas.

She went into Karen’s office and dropped them off on her desk. As she left, she half whispered. “One hour-max.” Then she went into her own office, slamming the door.

Karen for her part, opened the first of the subs and ate it. The other bag contained nothing but paper towels. As for the pizza, the boxes were used, but both were empty. However, to the casual observer she appeared to have eaten everything, which was the whole idea. For the next hour she answered her email and read many of the interoffice inquiries; which were mostly on the tone of inquiring about her recent growth. As agreed, she ignored them.

Time for the second phase. She took off her size 8 sweater, pulling an identical one in size 6 out of her briefcase. The fabric was strained a bit, but they were both a generous cut. It did appear that she had grown, again the general idea. She went into the lunch room and disposed of the boxes, then went to the copy machine and photocopied some useless forms. She stopped to say hello to Jill, mostly just to let her get a good look and then sashayed back to her new digs.

Jill whispered to anyone within earshot. “You see that. She ate it all. You can almost see her grow. That sweater is not going to last long I’ll bet.”

In a moment Roberta’s door opened and she opened Karens’ door. “Come on. We’re late.”

Karen grabbed her briefcase and they strolled out. On the way she mentioned to Jill, “We’re going to the Sunset Buffet. Any messages, please call me on my cell.” They left and once the doors closed, Karen breathed. “How’d I do?”

“Marvelous. Keep your game face though. We really are going to lunch. I hope you’re hungry.”

Karen smirked. “I’m starved actually. Maybe we should have more substance and less style in those snacks.”

 Roberta shrugged “That’s up to you. Just be careful. Unless I miss my guess, we are going to have an audience. We’ll give them a show, just don’t overdo it.”

They were hardly in the elevator ,when Jill accosted Norm in his office. “Norm hurry, you’re having lunch with me. No argument.”

Norm was married, but still a red-blooded guy who appreciated a pretty girl. “Wouldn’t dream of it. Just lunch, though.” She practically dragged him out and the two sat far off in the corner, watching as Roberta heaped plate after plate of food onto Karen’s tray. The boss was beginning to get full, so she made motions to leave, adding “You stay here awhile if you like. In fact I insist. I don’t know if you noticed our audience in the corner.”

“No I didn’t actually. I barely noticed you.” Karen was embarrassed to admit she’d been that focussed on eating. She really was starved.

Roberta whispered. “Good that makes it more believable. Fill up good and come back when you like. But do come back. I want the full impact like we discussed.” Karen nodded as the boss strode out, taking her time and pretending not to see the two spies.

That was the cue for Jill. “Hurry!” she said “We need to get back, before Roberta knows we were here.” They arrived only seconds before the elevator opened, with Roberta, who summoned Jill to her office. A bit worried, she asked if anything was wrong.

“No. I need a favour though. Karen was going to email some pictures to IT for me. She’s busy doing …something else for me right now. Maybe you could help out…? Oh and send a quick note to Helen too. Tell her I’m sending a new VISA card to her by courier. The old one’s nearly expired.” She jotted the email address down. “Just don’t give this out, I don’t want her to be pestered by everyone in the office for mundane concerns. Karen can handle them, she needs to grown into her job more, or she’ll never learn anything.”

“Sure.” Jill was relieved. She resisted the urge to snicker at the inadvertent pun. She could tell Roberta would not see the humour in it.

Roberta handed her the memory card and instructed. “Let’s see-number 27 and 42. It’s for trial proofs for the catalog. Just take the whole thing and give it back when you’re done.” As Jill left, she warned. “Oh honey, there’s other stuff on there. Private. I can trust your discretion I hope?”

Jill nodded emphatically. “Oh…sure.” Dutifully, she opened the two files, noticing they were both views of Karen, wearing sleek new business suits. She sent them off and was about to eject the disc, when as Roberta knew she would, she clicked View All. She let out a slight gasp at what she saw. The next few minutes would change the whole situation.

Trying not to betray her emotions, she clicked Control C, copying the contents to her personal thumb drive. Putting it in her pocket, she returned the disc to Roberta. Then, she sent an email to Helen. She wasn’t sure how to approach it, because she knew more than she should. Taking the cautious approach was best.

 

[maltesefalcon]

June 1/2009 Helen  Milan

Helen woke slowly. The familiar side effects of too much wine and too little sleep, were already working their magic. Oh God she thought. This is going to be a long day. Maybe not. She looked at the clock which read 18:00. 6 pm. She had slept the whole day away! Then, another sensation- alarm. There was someone else in the bed with her!

If the soft breasts pressed into her back did not give it away; the manicured and red polished nails on the hand around her waist was the kicker. It was another woman! Arising with a start she was dismayed, but not surprised, to see Connie laying there. Her frantic motions awoke the stowaway, who simply smiled “Good morning. Sleep well?”

“Never mind good morning. What are you doing in, here?” At the same time, Helen jumped from the bed, when she realized she was naked as the day she was born, as was Connie. Quickly, she wrapped herself in a dressing gown, waiting for Connie to reciprocate.

She did no such thing, instead rolling provocatively in the bed, and entreating Helen to join her.

“No. Now get out before I call someone!”

Connie became somewhat agitated, then gazed down before she wrapped the sheet around herself and started to leave. Helen noticed a tear streaking down her cheek.“Wait. Sorry-you scared me. I guess I was a bit harsh. Maybe we need to talk. Stay, please. What happened last night?”

Her new “roomie” sighed forlornly. “You needed worry. Nothing happened. It was 10:00 am our time, when we rolled in here. I think the combination of the wine and jet lag got to you. When you cuddled up to me on the plane, it felt so good. You were a bit out of it here, so I had to help tuck you in.”

“Is that what you call this?” Helen indicated her lack of clothing.

Connie shrugged. “I only helped a bit. You did most of it yourself, including…” She pointed to the lampshade where her panties were neatly hung. “You didn’t seem to mind that part, so once you fell asleep, I came in and joined you. Your reputation is safe. I won’t tell anyone.”

A bit relieved Helen offered. “It’s…okay. I guess I should be flattered, but you should have told me you were…what?”

Connie giggled. “You can say it,it’s okay. I’m gay. I make no efforts to hide it. In fact, I thought it was obvious.”

“Not to me, I had no idea.”Helen reassured her. It’s just that I don’t have those kinds of feelings for you, or for any woman. But if I did, I’d consider you a rare prize. I hope we can still be friends.”

Connie wiped her eyes and nodded. “I would like that. Sorry for the surprise attack; but I had to know…”

Helen shrugged. “Look it’s okay. I’m not homophobic.”

“Please don’t give me the “some of my best friends are gay” speech. I’ve heard it a million times.”Connie explained “I have to confess something else, though. I put out lots of signals, to see if you would betray any hint of attraction to me.”

A raised eybrow. “Oh, what kind of signals?”

“I was attracted to you right away. Once I realized how I felt, I tried to let you see me as provocatively as possible. You let me see you naked quite a bit and I had my fair share of looks at you too. You never seemed to mind, so I kept going.”

 Helen pondered events of the recent past. “The film shoot, nude beach, the suntan lotion. Were they just ploys to see me naked?”

“Not entirely, but I did enjoy it. I said it before, you have wonderful breasts. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on them, no matter the reason. I didn’t really know what to make of you. I still think about how willingly you let me rub that cream all over your legs the first day we met. It’s probably what made me think you might be interested. Most women would not have allowed that with a person they’d just met. So I decided…”

“Anyway, I’m afraid we will have to undo some damage. Claudio and Gracia already think you and I are…more than friends. So do most of the models, not all of whom are pleased at it, by the way. I’ve never had anyone but my lovers on my bike with me, either. And I made your bed every day we shared my room, so the maid would report that only one bed was slept in. That was the real reason Claudio took you off his…to do list, so to speak.”

“I remember Gracia calling me your special friend. I didn’t realize the meaning.”Helen shook her head in wonder. “Why didn’t you tell me right from the beginning that you were attracted to me? I would have understood.” Then trying to lighten the mood a bit she added “After all, who could resist this? Do I give off some kind of gay vibe I’m not aware of?”

Connie offered. “It’s not the sort of thing that comes up in everyday conversation is it? Honestly, I was convinced you liked women, just not me in particular. Besides, at first I was more intrigued than lustful. Don’t get me wrong, I thought you were beautiful, and would not have turned down an offer. But physically, I usually prefer a certain type of woman. More rounded. It wasn’t until lately, I noticed how much softer you were getting, that I realized I wanted you for my lover. Raynha picked up on that right away. I was worried she’d tell you, before I had a chance to figure something out on my own.”

Helen took it all in, but it was not the revelation that Connie was gay that bothered her, rather the admission she thought she was fat. Time to put her cards on the table. She opened the robe and asked imploringly. “With all these weird sizes and the extra clothing you’ve been giving me, I’ve found it hard to gauge my figure accurately. I’m not blind, so I know I’ve gained a little since I’ve been here. You really think I’m getting fat?”

“No. No. I never said that.” Connie looked down at the floor as she said it.

“But you’re not denying it either.” Helen groaned in exasperation. “Because it’s true isn’t it?”

Helen looked down at the bulge of her midsection. “If Raynha thinks I’m fat, well she’d know wouldn’t she?”A tear trickled down her cheek as she said “I’m trying to behave, but everyone insists on stuffing me.”

Connie tried to comfort her. “Like I said before. You are more feminine. Softer.”

That did little to improve the situation. As with most women-soft, voluptuous, curvy, all were euphemisms for the same thing. They all meant…fat. Now she was fired up. “Get up and find that tape. I need to find out for myself.”

They tallied up the measurements and Connie helped convert them into Imperial sizes. They worked out to 39-24-37. The scale confirmed it. She now weighed 68 kilos, which converted to 150 pounds! She had gained another 19 pounds, since leaving New York. If she wasn’t fat, she was getting pretty close to it.

She stood in front of the mirror. Now that she could face the truth, time to assess the damage. Her boobs had grown more than a full cup size-they’d be tight in a D now. That part was the bonus. But her cheeks were puffier, the skin under her chin was bulging ever so slightly. She could see that her upper thighs and butt were bigger, too. And that belly would just not go away. She stood sideways and realized she really was starting to look pregnant now!

Feeling the swelling paunch, she knew she had just been deluding herself. All those parties and fancy dinners added up. Time for a strict diet! Time to go home, in fact. She would stay out of restaurants and hit the gym, until she was back to her old self.

She sat sullenly staring down at her stomach. Squeezing it to pinch the undesired growth she felt its two inch layer of fat. “This isn’t my fault you know. I was thin until I came here. What is it with you people and food?”

Connie began. “Well, Italians celebrate everything with food. But I need to tell you something else…”

Helen interrupted. “So these feelings you have. Have you ever acted on them with another woman before? Does anyone know?”

“Sure” Connie said. “Odette and I were quite an item, until last year. Mind you at first, she was nowhere near the size she is now.”

Now intrigued, Helen sat down and offered. “Go on, please. I’d really like to know.”

Connie continued. “She was about my size when I first met her. As I said on the first day, most models are a lot thinner than me, so she was having trouble finding work. It was an awkward time for her. She was too big to be a standard model, and too small too be a plus size. I liked her so I took her under my wing and helped her along.”

“Helped her how exactly?”

“Well I let her move in with me and I…eased the transition.”

The blank stare from Helen, indicated she had not caught on.

“You don’t see. She’s who she is, because of me. I showed her that women of size have real value. Once she realized that the rest was easy.”

Helen nodded “So you encouraged her to get bigger?”

“Oh to be sure, but much more than that. She didn’t just “get bigger”, as if by accident.”

Helen looked puzzled. “You mean she gained weight on purpose.”

“If you mean consciously, not at all. If you mean willingly, not at first. Left to her own devices, she’d probably be about your size by now. But I wanted more for her, and for me as well.” Connie’s eyes narrowed as she locked onto Helens for a reaction. Licking her lips a bit she confessed.  “So….. I….. fattened her up. Not all by myself, but I’ll take credit for her goddess-like figure. She’s so beautiful.” Connie closed her eyes and smiled at the thought of her.

Helen snorted. “Nobody simply allows themselves to get “fattened up” as you say. What’d you do kidnap her and tie her up? Force it down her?” She laughed but was only half kidding.

Connie paused to consider whether her next response would help or hinder. “Nobody?” She leered at Helen and gloated. “Managed to put a few kilos on you, didn’t I? No one held you down or tied you up. If I hadn’t tipped my hand, I could probably have put another 5 kilo on you, before you finally admitted you were getting bigger. Oh and by the way, despite what you said earlier, you definitely were not skinny when you came here. A lot of that is your own doing.”

Helen knew she was right but argued. “But you and I were just partying…”

“Sure” Connie said. “Just keep believing it.”

“Oh you are lying. Gracia was the one who’s most to blame. That woman is incorrigable. No wonder she’s as big as she is.”

Connie nodded. “And you don’t think a dear auntie who loves to cook anyway wouldn’t overfeed someone? Especially if it was someone she thought I was attracted to? She knows what I like. I told you before, she is like a real mother to me and spoils me when she can. Honestly though, my original plan was to just go through the motions for Odette’s benefit, to make her jealous.  You didn’t see the obvious signs, but she did.”

“Obvious signs? Of what?”

“Like showing up in identical outfits. I made sure we went everywhere together and made a point of us sharing a room. The Rio trip was business; but it also made a perfect opportunity to be seen naked in public together. So did the boat shoot. Even better, since it was by your own request.”

“Point is I don’t have any inhibitions about my sexuality or my preferences. Everyone I know is in on it, as well. The two of us were practically joined at the hip, and everyone but you could see my friends and family were conspiring to feed you up. Even the factory was designed to get you in the mood.They just naturally assumed you were going to be Odette’s replacement, and I let them.”

“I thought it would bring us back together, but it backfired. She found someone else, too. I’m sorry, but once the ball was rolling, I didn’t know how to stop it. I actually wanted to tell you more than once, but you kept getting bigger. “

“For a while, I thought maybe you were catching on and actually doing it on purpose after all. I told Gracia to lay off after a couple weeks, but when she stopped pushing it on you, you ate just as much. She said you even asked for more and raided the fridge at night.  No offence, but you can pack it away pretty well. Even when you’re on your own. I’ve seen the room service bills. I almost told you how I felt on the plane last night, but you fell asleep.”

Helen changed the subject as Connie was starting to cut a bit close to the hard truth. “You obviously still have feelings for Odette. Why did you split up?”

“I’d rather not talk about it, if it’s all the same.” She stood to leave, signalling the conversation was at an end. Speaking of end, she would email Roberta and ask to come home. No time like the present.

She saw Connie out and was about to send an email to Roberta when she noticed one came in from Jill.

“Hope your trip is going well. Roberta asked me to tell you there’s a new VISA card on the way for you. Not much news here to catch up on. Then a fateful decision as she typed “I’ve got some gossip that may interest you. The whole office is buzzing. Karen’s gotten fat. Happened nearly overnight, too.”

She snickered after she’d read it and decided to take a shower to clear her head. While she waited for her hair to dry a bit, she typed  “Haven’t seen you for two months and that’s the news you send me? Must be pretty dull around there.  If something urgent comes up let me know; otherwise I’ll catch up when I get back.”

Then she received the next series of emails that would change her life.

[maltesefalcon]

“Jill responded “Maybe I wasn’t clear in my earlier message. This is hard for me to say-let’s just say I’ve heard rumours about the new campaign and what you were asked you to do. I think Roberta may be grooming Karen to fill in. She’s already taken over your office. You need to see this.” She attached the two images that IT had just received. Helen opened the pictures and her jaw dropped.

Helen was shocked but found the strength to type. “Amateur. I saw that little blow up suit before I left. Not that it’s any of your business anyway, but nice try.”

Instantly, a reply. “No, it’s real, she’s fat.  I saw her in person, while she was changing. You’ll note I didn’t say she was getting fat, she’s there already. Pot belly, big ass, stretch marks, 30 or 40 pounds worth. Trust me, I know the real thing, when I see it. She’s doing it on purpose, by the looks of it. At first we thought she was pregnant, but she’s denied it, and I can’t see any reason for her to lie about that.

Roberta’s in this up to her neck somehow. Kind of creepy when you think about it, she was actually hand feeding her. Ever heard of anyone eating two subs and two pizzas in the morning, then go to the buffet an hour later for lunch? I’ve never seen anything like it; the poor girl is getting bigger by the minute. To keep up appearances, she pretends to do work, but all she really does is sit in your old office and eat. What is going on anyway?”

This time a quicker reply. A more urgent tone. “Fun is fun, but this better not be a joke or you’re finished.”

Reply again. “Look, I didn’t have to do this. If Roberta finds out I told you, it’s my neck, not yours. Karen was gone for a month. According to her, she was on vacation, but she doesn’t have that many weeks. I think Roberta may have sent her to some clinic or something. She came back so fat, I didn’t recognize her at first. Anyway the photos don’t do justice. If she keeps this up she’ll weigh 1000 pounds. Speaking of 1000 pounds, there was another girl here earlier, Italian; I think. Anyway she makes Roberta look like Kate Moss. We couldn’t hear much, but I think they are using her for a benchmark. The way Karen’s eating I think she’ll get there too.Doesn’t sound like she’s too thrilled though. Roberta keeps pushing her all the time. She left crying after the first meeting but she’s still stuffing herself.”

Helen’s reply. “Sorry about the threats, but this is about my job too, and there’s a lot more at stake than you may know. You were right about Roberta’s expectations, but I turned her down. She promised me she’d wait until I got back to make her final decision. I was foolish enough to take her at her word, but nothing is in wrinting. Looks like she may be hedging her bets, with a ringer. Can you get more feedback to me? If you keep me up to speed, I’ll do right by you. Just don’t let Roberta or Karen know that I’m on to their little plan. Deal?”

Re-installing her thumb drive, Jill sent her the rest of the files. “Deal. Here’s all I have now. Knock yourself out. I need to go, this is dangerous for me. Roberta’s on the prowl.”

That little bitch Karen is after my sales job! No way, she thought, I did all the work. I’ve got the experience and the know-how. The stores and concept were my idea, not hers. Now Karen was going to take it all away, merely by getting fat. There’s no effort or talent in that. She stood in the mirror gazing upon her reflection and sighing. “I’m living proof of that.  I’m getting fat, too. If I stay here much longer I’ll be as big as Roberta, with nothing to show for my troubles.”

That was when she made the biggest decision of her life. Screw Karen. She could blow herself up as big as a weather balloon if she wanted; she was not getting that job. Roberta had promised she would not make a decision, until this road trip was over. With the right effort, the job would be offered to Helen, and she knew just how to get there. In fact, the right strategy would also teach both Karen and Roberta a thing or two.

“Connie when you are free, please come in.” Her “roomie” strode in, still not dressed, but at least she had slipped on a robe. “We need to talk.”

Connie said “Sure, I’ll pack my stuff. Please just don’t tell anyone why you are…”

Helen said “No no. I’m fine with that. Actually, I need your help.” She then laid out the whole story, at least as much as she knew. “So there you have it. Good thing I have one loyal colleague at home, or I never would have known until it was too late.”

Connie asked “So this…Karen will take your job, yes? What will you do then? You can stay here, work for me. If we were to get another few pounds on you, you’d be one of my best models…”

“I’m sure you’d love that, though you’re on the right track.” Helen shook her head. “But I’m not giving up that easy. I earned that job and the raise that goes with it. I thought Roberta was bluffing about the size thing; but it seems her mind is made up.”

Connie shrugged. “It would seem that there is little either of us can do about it, now. Especially from here. Maybe, if you went back to New York…”

Helen contradicted her. “There is something I-we can do, actually.”She patted her paunch once again. “I’m getting a bit bigger anyway. I can’t believe I’m saying this; but if this is the only thing standing in my way, I’ll go for broke. That’s where you come in.”

Now Connie was more attentive. “What would you like me to do?”

“Don’t be coy. It is not becoming.” Helen answered. “Isn’t it obvious? I’m fighting fire with fire. If getting fat is what it takes to send Karen packing, then so be it. I’m going to need to get a lot bigger. I’ve seen you at work with your models. Think you could help me, like you did with Odette?”

Connie pondered. “I don’t know. Of course I can do it, but with Odette I did it for love.”

Helen nodded. “So it’s not just women in general you prefer.”

Connie blushed a bit and confirmed. “No. Years ago, when I realized that I was not attracted to men, I told my family and they were very accepting about it. But I never told anyone, I like them on the plumper side, at the time. When Claudio asked me to take over the plus side of the business; it was like a dream come true. I got to fatten up these women, and be around them all day. I have to confess, Odette was not the first of my girls that I had relations with. Odette was special though… “

“And you still have feelings for her. What happened? Tell me, please.”

Connie sighed. “She left me because I was unfaithful. With a man, of all things. Technically, I did have a few nights with a local race car driver; but neither of had any emotional attachment. He was having a brief fling and I did it for the one thing a woman like me needs a man for. I was trying to get pregnant. His wife found out, and soon so did Odette. She was embarrassed and no amount of apology or explanation, has convinced her to forgive me.”

Helen nodded. “I see. Well she’s not seeing anyone else, right? Maybe she still has feelings for you too. Since you are still unattached, she doesn’t see any threat to taking her time to forgive you.”

Connie nodded. “So-what are you proposing?”

“Just this. Maybe you can use me to help you get her back. If you make a public effort to help me to reach my goal; she’ll draw the wrong conclusions, if we play it right. We can continue the pretence that we are lovers. I’ll let you decide how far to take it in public. Move in here with me. Sleep in my bed, if you want. Just so you realize that’s as far as it goes. No hanky-panky. And we both wear pyjamas. That is non-negotiable.”

Connie smiled mischievously. “Of course I’m up for it. No one will actually get the message, if we are in the same room, here though. Might I suggest you move out of here and into the castle?”

Helen nodded. “That makes sense actually. And I’m sure Gracia’s cooking will help.So you in?”

Connie nodded. “Sounds like fun actually, and I’ve got nothing to lose. Aren’t you worried about your reputation?”

Helen shook her head. “What reputation? According to you, everyone I’ve met here already thinks I’m gay. I don’t live here anyway, so who cares? Folks back home won’t find out. I hope. I’ll take that chance. Besides, if I come home another hundred pounds heavier, that’ll give them enough to gossip about.” That gave her second thoughts, for a moment.

Connie held out her hand and as they shook on it she offered “Deal. Except for the bed part. I find it hard to resist you now. It would be impossible as you get bigger. We’ll work out the sleeping arrangements on the fly, but I’ll make sure no one is the wiser.”

Helen remembered how lovely Connie had looked as well. “Fair enough. The illusion should do the trick. Odette just needs to see what she stands to lose, and I’m sure she’ll do the right thing.”

“I agree. Perhaps we should get to the task at hand. Stand up, please. I want to see what I have to work with.” Now unintimidated, Helen dropped the robe once again. Connie poked the pudgy layer over her belly, noticing it was already developing a slight crease. “You have made good progress on your own, I think. Have you considered the possibility that Roberta may have sent you here, for just this purpose?”

Helen blanched. “Don’t be absurd. How could she forsee… this?” She stroked the now-obvious belly and added.” It’s simpler than that.  I think she sent me here to keep me out of the loop, so I would come home to find Karen already in my job.” She patted her paunch once again and sighed. “I don’t know what makes me more angry; the fact that she thinks I’m dumb enough to fall for it, or that I nearly did.”

Then she reddened and spat out. “Nearly…but it’s not too late. Tell me, do you really think I’m fat?”

 Connie avoided the question.

Helen realized why and added. “No, I want the truth. Please-you owe me that.”

Connie shrugged. “Compared to my models, of course not. But compared to me…little bit yes. Sorry, if I offend.”

Suprisingly, Helen smiled. “Good. Then there is still hope. Let’s face it, if I stay here much longer I’m not going to get any thinner am I?”

Connie stared blankly and shrugged. “Not if my stepmother has any say in it.”

Helen scowled. “Oh no,don’t blame her. We both know who is really at fault here.”

Connie was about to apologise for her own part in the transformation; when Helen offered. “Time is catching up on me. Anyone could see that I was starting to get fat last year; but I kept up the denial. Well, the jig is up now, I’ll never lose this. No one forced that food down me. This extra weight is my fault, but I mean to turn it to my advantage.

Connie breathed a sigh of relief andf quickly added “Does anyone there know how much you’ve gained? No pictures, emails etc?”

Helen shook her head. “Of course not. I only came to my senses myself, just now.”

“This is a big step and I think you may be doing this less for your own interest, than out of spite. You had no intention of actually cooperating, until you felt Karen would take over right? Maybe if you sent a few photos of yourself to Roberta, she would see you have changed and stop looking for a substitute?”

“Hmm you might be right. But I can’t afford to take any chances, or tip my hand for that matter. I’m already bigger than Karen, but I don’t want her to know that. Serve her right.”

Connie looked puzzled. “Explain please.”

“Well the most obvious conclusion, is that is Karen’s transformation was her own idea. Now, she is trying to take something, which is not rightfully hers. In that case, she’ll just carry on like she is doing now. But what if the whole thing is a smoke screen, and Roberta’s behind it?”

Connie shrugged. “I’m not sure I understand where you are going with this.”

Helen elaborated. “Until now, Jill hasn’t sent me any communications, since I’ve been here on any other topic, whatsoever. We don’t work in the same department, we’re not close and those emails were a little too coincidental for my liking. In fact, if Karen gets the job, she’s potentially sabotaging her new boss’ prospects. Maybe they are just trying to force my hand into doing the same thing? In that case, Jill is involved too. I’m not going to give them the satisfaction of finding out, the first part of their little plan has worked.”

Connie looked confused. “Why not?”

Helen explained. “Well it’s pretty obvious I’m not going to get any thinner, not quickly anyway. Once Karen sees this, though, she may up the pace and make it harder for me to beat her. Or she could give up entirely and just go back to her old weight if she can.”

Connie asked. “Is that such a bad thing?”

“Not on its own. But she did tease me about my weight a bit. Her thinness was a matter of pride. If she gets fat and stays that way, for naught, it will take her down a peg or two.”

Connie shook her head “If it’s a trick, seems to have had the desired result. You are still doing it, right?  At least, so far?”

Helen nodded “They’ve painted me into a corner, I agree. That’s why I’m not going to give them the satisfaction of finding that out, until it’s too late. Karen will to have to show how far she’ll take this. This is perfect, actually. Even if Jill is a double agent, I still have a little spy on hand to keep me up to date on any developments. If I do this right, Karen will get big enough to teach her a lesson, but not enough to get the job. Not only that, she won’t be able to tease me about my weight anymore. I’ll have company. I can’t wait to see the look on her face when she sees the new me and I tell her I knew about their plan, the whole time.”

Connie smirked “So you will stand back, while she fattens herself up, with no chance of success? How Machievellan! Remind me never to get on the wrong side of you. Still, I don’t think I’d like to be in the room, when you confront her for the first time. So how big do you want to be, anyway?”

Helen pondered a moment. “Not sure. Bigger than Karen, no matter what.If I fulfill the goal Roberta wants, I’d be about 120 kilo. About twice what I am now.”

Connie smiled. She resisted the impulse to lick her lips with glee, instead offering “I like a challenge. It would be my great pleasure to help you. Why don’t you sleep on it tonight, and we’ll discuss it in the morning. If you still feel the same way…”

Helen cut her off. “I’m not changing my mind. I’ll do it with or without your help, but I’m not wasting any more time.”

Connie smiled again. “I was hoping you’d say that. I just hope that you are that enthusiastic ,when my handiwork starts to take effect.” She spanked Helen on the bare buttocks and snapped “We might as well start right away.Get dressed and pack your personal items. The rest we can send for.”

Helen asked. “You said you had something else to tell me earlier. What was it?”

Connie dodged. “Doesn’t matter now.” Connie thought to herself. That was a close call. She’d nearly spilled the beans herself but now it didn’t make any difference. The die was cast. Helen’s anger at the situation made sure she would not change her mind.

[maltesefalcon]

Jill/Roberta New York  June 1/2009

Roberta came over to Jill’s desk just before she closed the Send window. “Seen Karen.”

“No ma’am. Thought she was with you. She hasn’t come back from lunch yet.”

Roberta nodded. “Oh, good. I guess my talk this morning had some effect.”

Jill asked “Excuse me?”

Roberta said “Never mind. It’s not your concern. Have her report to me when she gets back.” She then went into the washroom.

As if on cue, Karen did come back. “Sorry I’m late. I stopped for a…coffee.” The evidence of the “coffee” was in the bag of éclairs she carried in. This time, she had on a size six skirt and had shoehorned herself into a size four sweater. The material screamed for its life and before she had gone more than a few steps, a button popped off, right in the middle of her swollen belly.

Karen giggled. “Oops. Guess I need to go up a size.” Then she looked around and blushed a bit. “Guess I need to go shopping for bigger clothes, eh?” She patted her belly and added “Put on a little weight on my… uh…vacation. Those uh… cruise ships… are nothing but floating restaurants.” Milking it for all it was worth, she tried her best to poke her belly back into the void.

Enrapt in her chore, she failed to notice the cell phone pop out and snap a couple shots of the proceedings. Just in time Jill pocketed the device, as Karen looked up and posed the question “Give me your honest opinion. Do you think I look fat in this outfit?”

Nonplussed Jill blurted out. “Yes actually, now that you mention it.”

Karen smiled “Good. It’s working.” and began to fiddle with the sweater again.

Jill shook her head “What’s going on…”

Coming out of the loo, Roberta did her best to conceal her delight at this development. Looking at Jill she cautioned “Mind your own business.” Then to Karen. “As for you, keep schtum. Remember our talk earlier? Looks like that sweater is history. There’s a pullover in my office, try that. It’ll be big on you, but you can’t go home like that.”

Karen thought no, but Roy would like it if I did. With that, she grabbed the sweater fully intending to go home just like this, with her coat overtop on the subway of course. She went into her office, to change. Roberta went back to her office as well and closed the door.

Jill quickly pulled out the phone and sent a quick message. “Look I just took these. She’s up to something. She’s bursting out of her clothes and happy about it.”

No sooner was it sent, than her intercom beeped. It was Roberta.”Can you come in my office for a minute?” Jill answered the summons, where Roberta said “Pull down the blind, close the door and have a seat.”

Her serious tone had Jill a bit worried. “Anything wrong?”

Roberta ignored the question. “Where’d you go to school honey?”

“After high school I went to Columbia, for Business Admin. Why?”

Roberta nodded.”They teach English there?”

Jill was perplexed and offered “I-I guess so, why?”

“Okay. Any health issues with you I should be aware of? Blackouts? Hearing problems? Mental issues?”

Jill shook her head as she noticed Roberta begin to redden. “No, none of those.”

“Oh. Okay I was just hoping you would have a logical reason to explain this. Not two minutes after I explained to you what to do I see this.” She tossed a printout of the email exchange that had taken place between Helen and herself, only minutes ago.

Jill blanched.” How…”

Roberta scowled. “I had IT forward all her emails to me, since she was out of the country. Do you have the faintest idea of the damage you may have caused here and how much trouble you are in?”

Jill began to well up. “Am I being fired. I was just…”

Roberta interrupted. “You were just poking your nose in and having a laugh at someone else’s expense. First, let me answer your question. You are so fired, it’s not even funny. This is way beyond just disobeying my instructions. First, those photos were part of a campaign that could cost this company millions of dollars, if it goes south. Helen is key to its success. I didn’t send her to Europe on a fact finding mission, I sent her there on a fat finding mission. Your little joke may have sabotaged the whole thing.”

Jill wrinkled her nose and asked. “Excuse me?”

Roberta sighed and explained. “She gained so much weight on her last trip I sent her out again. Only this time, I hope she really lets herself go. The right ingredients are there, on the rebound emotionally, strange country, rich food, big financial incentive. The rest is up to her.”

Jill nodded but was still confused. “But why?”

“Come on honey, I read the emails remember? Don’t be disingenuous, you can’t pull it off. But for the record…”Roberta then explained the whole campaign, without mentioning Karen’s personal motives. “So you see I need Helen to come back…ready to wear, so to speak. As of yet, she is less than enthusiastic at the prospect.”

Jill nodded. “I’d feel the same come to mention it.  But why is Karen getting…I thought…”

“You thought. Karen is my backup…volunteer. I feel bad that she might end up losing the contest, though. In fact, I hope she does.”

Jill gulped. “So she’s potentially doing this for nothing. That seems a bit harsh.”

“She’s not the first choice-both she and Helen now it. But I need her to keep putting on weight, just in case. I’m just using the situation to my advantage. A little leverage. Let me use an analogy-you never know how fast you can run, until someone is chasing you. I was going to let the cat out of the bag eventually, when Karen was somewhat bigger and more of a realistic contender.”

Jill took it all in. “So in effect you are going to have two possible candidates. Only Karen will be doing this essentially for nothing. Are you saying you are making her get fat, just to make Helen do likewise?”

Roberta corrected her. “I’m not making Karen do anything, she asked me for the opportunity. Pressured me in fact; because I said no,at first.  Despite any protests or seconds thoughts she may have, every extra ounce you see on her right now, is there because she wants it there. She even asked me for a month off, to get a head start. Under the circumstances, it was the least I could do. I just need to make sure she gains fast enough to scare Helen into action, before it’s too late. Also, I’m not sure either one of them will get big enough. Karen’s certainly bigger by her standards, but it’s a long way from size 22. She’s already showing signs of having second thoughts, and it’s only her first day back.” Patting her own belly she added. “This didn’t happen overnight, you know.”

Jill blinked and shok her head. “This whole thing is a bit diabolical, isn’t it?”

Roberta pondered a minute. She’d been careful not to outright lie, but she’d certainly given Jill a skewed view of reality. “Nothing to be done about it. I prefer ruthless, but it’s not personal. Get this into your head, if you want to succeed; you need to make tough decisions sometimes.  I never made any promises like I said. Karen knows she is my second choice. If she loses, I will still make sure she is compensated for her efforts. It will have to come from Helen’s portion, for making me go through all, this nonsense in the first place. She’ll still do okay, though. In fact, each of them will make more than both of us put together if they play their cards right.”

“As for you Missy, you may have actually ruined Karen’s chances. She may have had a better shot, if you hadn’t spilled the beans. If Helen didn’t know about this, she may have come home a bit heavier, but nowhere near suitable. So you see my dear, it’s you who may have burst her bubble after all.”

Jill looked down at her feet, and said nothing.

Roberta continued. “There’s more. You could actually be prosecuted for this. Those two pictures I asked you to send had a signed release from Karen. Those others, especially the ones in her underwear could set us up for a lawsuit-maybe criminal prosecution. At least you sent them from your thumb drive, not the server. I’ll have that by the way, once this conversation is over.  Now. Did you send them anywhere else? Don’t lie, I can check the server files to see.”

Jill shook her head. She wanted to say there wasn’t time, but thought that would not help her situation in the slightest.

Roberta let her stew for a minute then sighed. “From all reports you seem bright and a good worker. I just don’t know if I can trust you.”

“Actually I was trying to help Helen. I thought if she…”

Roberta nodded. “I know. You risked your career to help her. That should count for something, I guess. That’s why I’m going to give you another chance. Maybe we can turn this around to our advantage. I was wondering how to clue Helen in, within raising her guard. Here’s what we can do. Now that Helen has a “spy” here, we can use you to feed her just the information we want, when we want. You clear everything with me first. Got it?”

Jill nodded and wiped her eyes. She began to cheer up a bit. “If Helen decides to go for it, then Karen is off the hook?”

“Maybe, maybe not. I’m not giving the job to the biggest, just the first to meet my target. If either suspects she can’t win, she may quit prematurely and they’ll likely both come up short. Can’t let that happen. Nope best chance is to keep them in the dark enough to fatten them both up.  Next. This is vital. Karen must not find out Helen knows about her current physical state, or the new “duties” she has been assigned to. And by all means, she must not find out about those pictures. She’ll freak. So far Karen has made good progress. That being said, no matter what, one of them has to be at least size 16, and soon.I need to get Karen past the point of no return before she changes her mind. I’m also a bit worried Helen may try to pull rank and tell her to lay off.  Then, both of them may end up out of a job. That’ll be on your head too, missy so you’d be joining them.”

Jill asked “Okay I’m new here and all, but why does anybody need to do it. Can’t they just sell the clothes the way they are?”

Roberta explained. “It’s a matter of image and expectations. Large women prefer to deal with others like them. Let me put it another way. You’d probably not have any issues with Larry the Cable Guy fixing the muffler on your car right?”

“No but…”

“Let me finish. He looks like a good Mr Fixit, I’ll give you that. But would you ask for advice about cologne from him?”

Jill shook her head and wrinkled her nose at the thought. “There you go. I need someone who knows the business and has something in common with her clientele. I’d prefer it to be Helen, but Karen would be a reasonable second choice candidate. Eventually, she’s going to get cold feet and stop gaining. If that occurs before she reaches my goal, she’ll need someone’s oversight, to help her along.”

Jills eyes widened in undestanding. “Oh, I get it now. You’re going to feed her up even more?”

Roberta leered slyly. “No dear. You are. That’s your new job. Unofficially that is, so don’t blab to anyone else, especially Helen. She finds out what you are up to, she’ll know it’s a trick. Just for the record, Karen needs to put on another 100 pounds or so and we only have a few months to do it.”

Jill bit her lip. “I don’t know about that…this whole thing seems a bit underhanded to me. I’m not sure if I’m comfortable with this.”

Roberta nodded. “Ah. It seems you have scruples. Listen honey, one of these two is going to do this, with or without your help. I’ll just get someone else. You’ll be unemployed, the second you walk out of this room. You and your scruples comfortable with that?”

Jill sat stone faced, but did not respond.

Time for the finishing touch. Roberta stood up and motioned her to do the same. “You know…there may be another way.”

[maltesefalcon]

She eyed her up and down. “How much do you weigh, dear?”

Jill stammered “125, why?”

Roberta poked her side a bit, and her finger sunk into the soft flesh, up to the second knuckle. “Well you seemed to have filled out a bit yourself, since you’ve been with us. What’s it been-6 months?”

“8 ma’am. As for my weight, I don’t see what this has…”

“Well dear. Karen has a very high metabolism and a short, petite frame. You should see how much food I have to give her, to put a pound of fat on her. It’s the contrast that’s impressed you, because she was so tiny to start with. For all the stares and shock you are expressing, she’s only 14 pounds heavier than you say you are at present”.

Then she added. “You on the other hand, struggle in the opposite direction, I’d bet. There’s no way you still weigh 125, you might want to jump on a scale tonight. I recognize a certain quality in you; that just cries out to be bigger. Probably been on a strict diet, since you were in junior high. Girls like you gain 10 pounds eating a jar of olives.”

Off-guard Jill snickered “Don’t I know it and it all ends up on my hips.”

 Roberta said, “No matter. Business degree, too. More I think of it, better I like it. I’ll tell Karen that all bets are off. It is just too much effort to put any weight on her. Helen can stay in Europe for all I care, we’ll use you. It’ll be a lot cheaper and certainly a lot less effort on my part, anyway. Hopefully, none at all.”

She smiled slyly and sat back in her chair. “It’s settled then. We might as well start the process right now. Get your coat, I’m taking you for dinner. We need to do that every night for a while, to make up for lost time. I bet we can pack ten-fifeen pounds on you, by the end of the week. If you eat even remotely as much as Karen has, in a month or two, we’ll have you so fat, your own mother wouldn’t know you. Don’t worry, I’ll help you with wardrobe updates. I have some really nice stuff that would fit you, once we got you up to my size…”

Horrified, Jill blanched. “What? No. Not me. I don’t want to be like her, or that other woman from this morning. It’ll be horrid…”

Roberta shushed her. “Won’t be so bad. I’m fat. You don’t hear me complaining. Trust me, once you get it over with, you’ll start to like it. Hey, how often does anyone pay you to get as fat as you want? Win-win situation, in my book. But you don’t have to get as big as our guest. She’s…special.”

Jill sighed. She was trapped and she knew it. “You win. You let me off the hook, I’ll help fatten her up.”

Roberta nodded. “Scruples all taken care of? No more issues?”

Jill asked “What do I tell Karen, about my role in all this?”

Roberta shrugged. “Whatever works best, but she’s not stupid you know. I think she’ll figure it out once you start your coaching duties.”

Jill thought about Roberta’s earlier remarks about Helen. “You did mention an incentive…”

Roberta nodded. “Varies with the recipient. Helen got an excellant offer, but I don’t have much leverage with her. Karen did it for a little extra vacation. Your incentive is you get to come back to work tomorrow. If your efforts are instrumental in either of them reaching the finish line, I’ll make sure you are not forgotten. Best I can do for now, take it or leave it. Unless you’ve reconsidered let’s call it, Plan C? In that case, maybe we can…”

Shuddering at the thought, Jill shook her head “When do we start?”

“Excellent. Thought you’d see things my way. Guess I don’t need to tell you, this conversation never took place.” She reached into her purse and took out a credit card. “Here, this is for your expenses. For Karen.” She looked at the clock and said “Okay, around 3:30 I want you to go down and get a large chocolate cake from the deli.”

“Okay, then what?”

“I don’t know, find a homeless person and make their day. What do you think you should do? Good grief do I have to spell it out? Give it to Karen and make sure she eats all of it, if you have to feed it to her yourself. Now get out. One more thing. Erase those emails and bring me that thumb drive before you go home. That’s all. I need to work some other stuff out. We’ll talk later.”

Just before the door opened Jill turned and said. “Thanks for giving me a second chance. I won’t let you down. I promise.”

Roberta said “Good. You’ve had a narrow escape, girl. Don’t try my patience again.”

As the door closed, Roberta sat back, very satisfied with herself. Having caught Jill spying on them in the restaurant, she knew full well that she would have been unable to resist those pictures. She needed someone like her, to act as a double agent anyway, this was perfect. Although she didn’t now how herself; she would have the IT dept make sure that no one else could send Helen emails, however. She needed to keep the information trail under her control.

She thought about the other aspects of the conversation and plan, too. Was it ruthless? Certainly. Underhanded? Maybe. Personal? No. She imitated the Godfather and mumbled to herself. “It’s just business.”

She mused about something else. She was relievedthat Jill had not decided to actually be Plan C. There was no way she could have coped with the job, she was too green. Although Roberta had been bluffing about the backup plan, it made little difference in the long run. Jill may not have been aware of it yet, but the poor girl was destined to fill out. There was no real indication of this to a casual passerby. Roberta, however, was an expert and had seen thousands of women in various shapes and sizes in her career.

She knew Jill was destined to pork out-and seriously so. Not just destined, well under way, in fact. Her protests to the contrary; Jill was a plump little morsel already. She did not have a straight line or a hint of firmness anywhere on her body. Everything on her jiggled just a bit as she moved or walked. Roberta had even noticed the bulges growing in her ever-tightening clothing of late. The tip-off was not the chubby cheeks or the soft shoulders and upper arms. It was her waistline. If they were within the normal weight guidelines, most women’s waists visibly narrowed at, or near a point one or two inches above their navel. Others like Jill, were delta shaped even when they were thin, and had a false waistline much higher up, in Jill’s case just below her bra strap. The result was a crease in the skin on her side, the telltale sign of impending for lack of a better term “Muffin Pits”. These would develop if she started to fill out. The issue was, women with this body type simply could not stay thin for very long.

Roberta knew her type. Measured everything she ate to stay thin, and until recently it had worked. Vain, pretty, popular, probably had her share (and her pick) of the boys in her college years. At first she’d have good intentions, resisting to the bitter end.

Still getting used to life after college, she’d gain at least another ten pounds this year. No question. She’d seen it before many times. Although she wouldn’t be delighted, at least most of it would end up in one spot, making her cute bubble butt a little more luscious. The men would still stare as she wiggled by, but the effects would be temporary. The next few pounds would develop those aforementioned underarm bulges. As they grew, they’d eventually merge into the dreaded monoboob bra roll. In Jill’s case, her bust was not huge, so her bra roll might even be bigger than her actual boobs. Roberta chuckled a bit at that thought. The effect was so common, she’d actually suggested developing a duplex bra to contain it.

No matter-eventually she’d get married or comfortably set up in a long-term relationship.  Then, she’d be in trouble. The popular belief that women tried to look their best to attract the best mate possible, was in fact a myth. Women really dressed and watched their weight for fear they would be ridiculed by other women. Once lured in and snared, men were merely a bad influence. Anyone who has watched how the male half of the species dressed themselves, would realize they are far less shallow about looks than women give them credit for. Soon, she would realize a good man doesn’t really care how much she weighs. Once she starts to eat when and what he eats, she’d gain weight and he probably won’t even notice, let alone complain.

After that it was inevitable, she’d let herself go. One pregnancy, and the poor girl would blow up like a Zeppelin.  Roberta had never seen any woman with Jill’s promportions make it past 30 years old still under 200 pounds. She may not end up like Carol, but she’d certainly be as big as herself by 35. She rubbed her own paunch and thought, Jill had no idea. Roberta had no intention of breaking the news to her. She’d find out soon enough. But for now she’s my bitch!

[maltesefalcon]

Helen Milan June 1/2009

To Helen’s surprise, they did not go to Claudio and Gracia’s home. Connie drove about half an hour into the surrounding countryside. Arriving at a pleasant little villa, Connie asked. “Like it?”

The view was spectacular. The villa was old, maybe as old as her uncle’s, but smaller. She pressed a button and the carriage house door opened. Connie sped in and as she got out Helen noticed a small white and blue sports car in the corner. It was beautiful, with racing numbers.

“Is that a Ferrari race car?”

Connie shok her head. “It’s a race car. Not a Ferrari, it’s a GT. Ford GT. Ever seen one?”

“This is your “little Ford”?” Helen giggled at the realization that she had been snookered again. She walked over and asked. “Is it fast?”

Connie feigned disinterest, but Helen realized this was a prized possession. “About 700 horsepower. Top speed depends on the track. Raced at LeMans. Won actually. This particular car, not just the type. That’s what makes it worth something.”

“You raced it?”

“Hardly. The type has not been competitive, since before I was born. I drive it once in a while, but it’s not very practical. No heater, no A/C, no radio, windows don’t roll down. Clutch is very tough, even for a man. Runs terrible in traffic. I usually prefer the Hummer.”

Helen was mesmerized. “It’s beautiful. Could I sit in it?”

Connie popped the door and said “Go ahead. Don’t push any buttons. It doesn’t need a key to start.”

Helen got in, but just. Her butt was wedged into the hard seat and her belly and boobs fought for real estate with the steering wheel. “How do you do this?”

“Not any better I’m afraid. I’m slimmer, but taller so my knees get in the way.” She felt her own butt, adding “Other things too, now. It’s made for a small wiry man. I’ll take you to the track tomorrow if you like. You’ll fit in the other side more easily.”

“What’s it worth?”

“That’s a good question. Probably get a million Euros on Ebay, in ten minutes. It’s insured for two. We got it for nothing, though. Owner owed Claudio a favour. Next thing you know it’s my 30^th birthday present. Took a little of the sting out. Come on, I need to show you something.”

They went in the back entrance to the house and emerged on the lower floor. They were in a large spacious kitchen. A stout woman of about 50 turned from the stove. She spoke in German and Connie answered back perfectly. In English she began, “Helen this is Hanalore. She will be getting to know you better over the next while. Her English is not bad, but she’s here to work, so let her alone as much as possible.”

 Helen nodded and held out her hand. “Pleased to meet you.”

“Same” said the older woman.” Enjoy your visit.”

 She returned to her duties and Connie pressed a button on a pad on the wall. In about 15 seconds, two women appeared. Dark, Italian-looking both about 25 years old. They were impeccably attired in white smock dresses.

Connie expained “These two are sisters, Rosa and Christina. They speak English very well, so you should have fun getting acquainted.”

Helen nodded but they just stared impassively waiting for instructions. “So what do they do?”

“Good question. I’ll show you.” Connie nodded. “Bring her.” The pair were gone and in less than a minute they had a third companion. It was Toni. She was wearing a robe and slippers. This version looked different, however. She was much fuller looking than the last time they met. Even her face was puffier.

Connie looked at her critically. “Let’s see.” Toni opened the robe and hung it over the back of the chair. Helen was shocked at the difference. The already voluptuous figure had been amplified considerably. She was nearly bursting out of her now too-small bra and her hips had grown to match.

Connie frowned. “You are supposed to be a model. We can’t have you walking around in the wrong size clothes. Makes me look bad.”The two assistants took a few minutes, to measure her up. They worked out to be an incredible 47-24-46. Her breasts had swollen to an E-cup, already. Despite that, she still looked like a perfect hourglass. The extra weight had not one hint of cellulite either.

However, Connie was not pleased. She went over and felt the softness of Toni’s belly bulge and frowned in frustration. “You two have had her for weeks now. How much has she gained in that time? A chastened Rosa consulted the chart, noting 72 kg, which was 13 kg more than she had weighed at the beginning.

Connie shook her head in disapproval. “Toni we spoke about this and it was your last chance.I’ve done all I can to help you along, but you are not getting the message. We simply cannot use you like this.” She asked Christina “When was she last fed?”

“Breakfast this morning, Miss.”

“That was hours ago. Has she not asked for more?”

“No, miss.”

Connie shook her head. “And of course you did not press her…. looks like you’ve lost control. She is progressing too slowly. Feed her. Now.”

[maltesefalcon]

Toni shook her head. “I am not hungry. Besides, I think I have gained quite enough to meet the requirements.” She cupped her breasts and added. “Look at these things. If they get any bigger, I won’t be able to stand up. I won’t let you force me into this, you know.”

Connie clucked at her. “Shame. Alright, it’s up to you. Just for the record no one is forcing you. Don’t forget you came to me for this and I am trying to help you.”

Toni nodded. “And I appreciate it. But I know what is best for me. I’m not going to get fatter just to sell clothes. I think I’m capable of more.”

Connie moved closer and looked her in the eye. “Really? Perhaps. But I have seen a thousand girls like you in my life. Want to know what’s in store?”

A bit alarmed Toni cleared her throat, offering “Sure. I guess.”

Connie reached into her purse. “I knew this would come sooner or later. Always does.” She handed Toni a sheet of paper.

Toni picked it up asking “What’s this?”

“Your life in a nutshell. Googled your name. Go ahead-read it out loud.”

“Antoinette LeBrun. Born Lyons, France 1989. Former fashion model. Currently retired.” She nodded. “Seems correct. So?”

“So? That’s your life story, all of it. I’ve seen more lines on a tombstone. Speaking of which, what will you do with yourself until that time actually comes?”

“Well for now at least,” Toni confessed “I thought I was going to work for you…”

“Not like that. Sorry dear. I told you before, we need plus size models that are...well...plus size. If you don’t want to fit the profile then you could always go on a crash diet. You’d need to get down to under 50kg again, to get your old job back.”

Toni looked at her newly expanded self and shook her head. “I think we both know those days are over for me. I tried for months and no matter what, I just got fatter. Besides, I like the new me. Feels more comfortable, more natural. But enough is enough. No bigger. I am ending this today, job or no job. I will miss it though” she sighed.

Connie nodded. “I had a hard time to let go a few years ago myself. Even Claudio could not pull enough strings to get me work. Suppose you decide to decline our generous offer. Let me tell you what options you have left. Maybe you like the jet set lifestyle. You could spin out in public, finding yourself on the arm of a different playboy every week. The tabloids will love it and you’ll be famous, for a while anyway. You have the body and the social contacts to do that, for maybe ten years. By then your looks will fade, you’ll likely be much bigger anyway. Trust me, you don’t have the genes or the willpower to stay thin. Our little program had just accelerated the schedule a bit; but the outcome will be the same. But by the time you are my age, you’ll be much heavier than this, with nothing to show for it but a dissolute lifestyle. No one will want you and you’ll either fade into obscurity or descend into a life of debauchery.”

Toni wrinkled her nose at that. Helen was about to interject, but Connie pressed on. “Plan B is to retire from the public eye and settle down to a life of quiet obscurity, right away. Maybe if you get bored enough, you’ll be the third wife of some fiftyish banker or real estate mogul looking for his latest trophy. He’ll be content with you at first, but soon the bloom will fall from the rose.”

“You think you are big now. Wait until you are having his third baby. Hormones and gravity will do their bit. Either he will cast you aside in 5 years for a younger slimmer version, or he’ll just have the odd affair. In that case, you’ll live together in bored apathy, for the rest of your life. Every time he climbs on top of you, you will think of this moment and what might have been.”

Toni’s lip began to quiver a bit. “And what are you offering as an alternative?”

[maltesefalcon]

Connie slipped closer again and wiped a tear from her eye. “If you trust me and listen to me, I can turn you into a goddess. It will still be temporary, but you will be remembered for decades.” With a delighted smile she cupped Toni’s huge breasts, as the younger woman flinched, just a little.

“These” will be your trademark. “Sure they will be a bit heavier, but think of them not as a burden, but as your trademark. We can turn you into Mae West, Dolly Parton, Kim Kardashian and Anna Nicole Smith, all rolled into one. Except it will be all you-no silicone, no padding. I told you before, I’ve seen 1000 models, but none has your potential. A girl like you comes along once in a lifetime. No one else can take your place, it’s you or no one. You just have to show commitment, and that you want it. Trust me, if you put on another 20 kilo, I can ensure you will be immortal.”

Toni cheered up and Helen stared in amazement at the way Connie could manipulate the situation to her own advantage. The young woman smiled a bit and asked for encouragement. “This is for real? You are not just saying this?”

Connie pulled another document from her purse and handed it over. “I had my advertising people mock up a likeness of you, at that size. What do you think?”

Toni looked at it awestruck. “It looked so ridiculous and so real at the same time. I-I look like a cartoon. No one can look like this.  My boobs are colossal and my derriere is like twice the size… Non. C’est impossible.”

Connie corrected her. “For nearly all women that would be true. But you can. That’s the point. You will actually be famous for an impossible figure. You signed on for my agency for 10 years, anyway. No one else can take you on. If you work with us we’ll both get rich.”

Toni looked at the picture and herself, pinching her and there. “I’m nearly there now right? Twenty kilo doesn’t sound so bad. But you don’t have clothes to fit me. The plus size stuff is different.”

Connie waved her off. “Doesn’t matter. Sure, you will be modelling stuff no other woman can fit. Most regular models do the same thing every day. Regular women can’t fit that stuff either.”

“Don’t I know it!” said Helen.

Connie shushed her. “Don’t try to help. Besides I would think you are not exactly the regular woman now, either.” Helen blushed, as Connie finished. “We could use you as publicity. Maybe even get you on a cooking show.”

“But I can’t cook.”

“Ah, no one is asking you to. We get a chef who’s looking for their big chance. You can help out a bit and at the end they feed it to you. You know all those stupid shows about dieting. We could do the opposite. Each week you come out in a swimsuit or spandex and we weigh you and measure you for growth. You could eat to your heart’s content. I’m sure Nigella would enjoy the competition. Trust me the women will enjoy it and I’m sure a certain portion of the men will watch too.”

Seeing that Toni was nearly convinced, Connie threw one more log on the fire. “There’s more. You’ll probably get few movie or tv roles. Actually, you’ll get more offers than you’ll have time for. We can keep the best and weed out the rest.”

Toni was hooked now. “Movies?”

Helen could practically see the stars in the girls eyes, as her own rolled skyward and she muttered “Oh brother” under her breath.

The comment was just loud enough for Connie to hear and she frowned at Helen shaking her head slightly. “Sure but don’t put too much into that. We aren’t talking major roles here. Mostly cameo stuff-just playing yourself or someone like that. Still, movies are forever right? Once you are in, no one can take it away from you.”

Connie waited for a sign. Toni finally nodded. “You make so much sense.” She felt her own softening belly and sighed. “I was getting fat on my own. I couldn’t stop. I guess I might as well face the reality and get something out of it.”

Her boss scolded her a bit. “Come on girl. It’s not like you are being punished. You are in for a wonderful adventure. All you have to do is listen to my advice and let nature take its course. You even have a room mate now. Like you, Helen has asked for my help, but not for the same reason. I will leave it to her to discuss with you as much as she likes. Now are you in or out? I’ve got other things on my mind.”

Without a sound Toni dutifully sat at the table and the two young assistants brought a plate, goblet and a platter of eclairs. One placed a couple éclairs on the plate and Toni began to eat. The other filled the glass between gulps of the white wine. Toni gorged herself and finally she pushed the plate away, having eaten 10 of them. “I’m full really. I honestly can’t eat another bite.  The whole process took about 15 minutes.”

Smiling at her victory, Connie looked at the Toni and her two waitresses. “I believe you and I know now you will all show the proper vigour for this. Just in case though… “she grabbed the weight chart and wrote some numbers in the margin. “These will be your daily targets for gain. I expect them to be met. If you aren’t up to snuff by a month, sorry dear you’re fired.”

Then, to her“trainers”. “You two get more into her. Hourly. Feed it into her, if you have to. Just for the record-if I have to fire Toni for your failure, you’ll probably be joining her…”

[maltesefalcon]

Karen/Jill New York June 1/2009

Before Jill  got back, Roberta  summoned Karen into the office. “Karen honey, I’m going to ask you to do something for me. Did you like that photo session last week?”

Karen shrugged. “Was okay I guess.”

“Well, it got me to thinking. I need you to be around now and then; but not too much. Just enough to keep in the loop. I also need to find a job for you, until Helen gets back.  So, we have a lot of clothes in that warehouse and no one your height has ever been photographed in them. Models are usually 5’-10”, at least. Since are planning to gain a little more weight anyway, it will be a unique opportunity to photograph and archive the same person in the same outfits, in a progression of sizes. Here’s my proposal…”

She took a few minutes to lay it out. “There’s one more thing. Jill has turned into a bit of a thorn in my side, lately. I asked her to work with you. You don’t drive and she has a licence. Besides someone needs to take the photos.”

“I told her this was your idea, but not why. Don’t think she bought it though. She still thinks I’m forcing you into this. I’d like to keep it that way for awhile, at least. I told her it’s her job to fatten you up now-to size 22. Just keep schtum, and let her think she’s in control. I’m mad at her a bit, so give her some guff, but don’t overdo it. Bigger you get the better. You do look great, by the way. “

“Really?” asked Karen. She stood and lifted the sweater, which did little to hide the bulging belly anyway. “I feel like a bloated calf. I can hear them snickering behind my back. Maybe I should stop here…”

Roberta concealed her concern and countered. “I’ll fix that. How’s Roy like it?”

Karen blushed a bit.” Honestly, I’ve never seen anything like it. He’s all over me…”.

Roberta held out her hand. “I don’t need too many details. Just think of how much better he’ll feel, if you got just a little bigger. You may think you’re doing it for him, but actually you are doing it for yourself. Keep that in mind.”

Karen nodded “Just so we’re clear, though. This was my idea. I started it and I’ll finish it. No matter what you told Jill, I promised another 25 pounds, and that’s it. Get that size 22 nonsense out of your head right now, cause it’s not going to happen. If I decide I’m done, I don’t want any…repercussions.”

Roberta leaned forward. “Seeing as you just got a free month off for this, don’t feel too obligated. Don’t worry you’re safe.”

Karen acknowledged “Got it” and returned to her office, where she found Jill dutifully waiting, with an entire chocolate cake and a plastic fork.”Hmm could have sworn this was my office. Maybe you could eat your snack at the front where you belong.”

 Jill said. “Actually, this is for you.” Then she closed the door. “Go ahead, start eating.”

Karen pushed the cake towards the trash basket and Jill stopped her. “Wait what are you doing?”

 Karen smiled smugly at her and asked “What are you doing?”

 

Jill cleared her throat and asked “I’m not sure what you mean?”

“Let me be clearer then. Perhaps you’ve noticed how much weight I’ve put on lately? Do I look like I need any more food, right now? Feeling generous today- maybe, thought you’d buy me a cake? Is there anyone else out there? If I opened the door and looked out there, would be a long line of other people with cakes too? Or just you…”

Karen stood up “Let’s see shall we?”

Jill stopped her by holding the door. “You know there’s no one else. Just me. I know everything about what you Roberta are up to. She sent me for this and told me to make sure you finish. I’m sorry this isn’t any easier for me, but I’ve got no choice. I’m here to make sure you don’t get cold feet about this.”

Karen snickered. “Roberta’s burnt out already? That didn’t take long. Now she’s got you to do her dirty work. Suppose I tell you to get the hell out of my office, and take this with you.”

Now Jill got sterner. “You could do that, and I’d probably get fired, if it makes you happy. In that case, I’d have to let Helen in on your little plot. How well do you think she’ll take that?” Karen couldn’t have cared less, but played along as instructed. Feigning defeat, she lifted the cover and began to munch away.

Jill stood there in anticipation and Karen asked. “What else?”

“Roberta said to make sure you finish…”

Her cheeks stuffed full, Karen mumbled annoyingly  “Wha’ awe we, 10? I’ll ea’ it bu’ this is not a spectator spor’. Ge’ out.”

A bit chastened, Jill left and Karen did eat about half. The dark chocolate was exquisite and she could almost feel the calories adding to her profile on each bite. Jill came back about half hour later. “Nearly quitting time, how’d you make out?”

Karen showed her the result. “I ate as much as I can. It’s not very good.”

Jill closed the door and picked up the fork. “Roberta said to feed it to you, if you didn’t cooperate. Look, you know you need to get this into you.”

Karen smirked. “No thanks. I’m watching my figure.”

Now, Jill took a sterner attitude. “Everyone’s watching your figure, how could they miss it? Now quit playing around, Karen. I’m supposed to help fatten you up to size 22 and that is exactly what is going to happen, whether you like it or not.” She reached down and pinched Karen’s side. “You’ve done well on your own so far, but we still have a long way to go. Now come on, eat up so we can go home.”

The outstretched fork still had its morsel, unclaimed. So Jill tried a bit herself, to get the mood back. “There’s nothing wrong with this cake. It’s pretty good, in fact.”

“Fine” Karen said. “There’s three pieces left. I’ll eat the other two if you eat one first.”

Jill balked.” I’m not eating that it’s huge. Have you any idea how many calories are in…” She stopped, feeling a bit silly.

Karen simply patted her belly. “Those two go in here, after you eat one. Final offer. Or shall I just tell Roberta to find a new “helper” for me. She can’t do it without me, but you are replaceable.”

Panicked, Jill grabbed the piece and practically crammed it into her mouth. In a trice she had downed the entire piece.

Karen downed one more piece and finally gave up. “I’m done, sorry.” Jill ate the other one too, and grabbed the plate to leave. Karen wagged her finger. “Sit. You want me to do this, I’m not letting you out for a bit. Just in case you had any ideas of sticking your finger down your throat in the ladies room, in about five seconds.”

Jill was going to do exactly that and her red cheeks gave her away. “Pretty good after all eh? Anyway, we need to talk. No matter what Roberta told you, she made it clear to me that you would be working with me on a special project. Not this one, either.” she belched softly as she stroked the newly sated belly. Then she outlined the plan of action.

[maltesefalcon]

Jill changed the subject. “You never really answered my question. Why are you doing…this. Technically, she can’t force you. It’s illegal. Does she have some hold over you?”

Karen nodded as she made up a cover story. “The best one ever. Huge raise, promotion, travel, expense account.” She patted her belly adding.”Once she explained the details, she didn’t need to force me. In fact, I jumped at it. Most women get fat for nothing and fight it all their lives. How many you know get fat on purpose and get paid for it as well? Sometimes when I think about it, I wonder if I’m doing the right thing. But I try not to think about it and stay away from the mirror. Won’t be so bad, once I get used to it. No way I’m going to get as big as she wants me to, though. We’ll cross that bridge when the time comes.”

Jill smiled uncomfortably. “Right.”We’ll see about that she thought.

Karen’s eyes narrowed a bit as she sat back in her chair rolling a pencil between the thumbs and fore fingers of her hands. You never answered my question either. “Why are you doing this? She offer a raise? I can’t imagine you get much satisfaction from it.” Then she smiled as she rubbed her badly distended belly. “Or maybe you do..?”

Jill stammered “I screwed something up bad today. So I…”

“She screwed you into being my “trainer”. Well all I can say is, you suck at it.”

Jill reddened “Excuse me?”

Karen smirked. “You said yourself I was to eat the whole cake. Most of it I ate myself, with no input from you, whatsoever. How’d you know I didn’t stick most of it in a drawer to fool you?” Seeing the look on Jill’s face, she continued. “Don’t worry, I didn’t. Anyway, there were three pieces left. In less than a minute, I talked you into eating two of them. I’m better at this, than you are, who’s coaching who exactly? Maybe we should switch roles.”

Jill gritted her teeth and growled. “Not you, too. No way I am doing this!”

Karen said “No way I’m letting you, but thanks for letting me know, that at least Roberta offered. That will be our little secret.  If I’m going to end up looking like her, I’m going to make sure it’s not for nothing Whatever happens, you young lady are here for the ride.FYI, I am getting this job and you are not going to be plan B.”

Jill thought to herself. No, you are. She controlled the urge to smile and added “Don’t worry, I have no intention of standing in your way.”

Karen extended her arm and as the two shook hands, she added.” I’m glad we understand each other. Now, let’s go home. Tomorrow will be a long day.”

They walked out of the office and saw Roberta beckoning them through the glass. Sighing, the two strode in and Roberta asked them to close the door. She started right in.”How was the cake?”

Karen shrugged. “Was okay. Not as good as yours, though.”

Looking at Jill she asked. “Did you get it all into her?”

Jill paused and offered. “It’s all eaten, nothing left.” Not a lie but not a clear answer either.

Roberta leaned back as her eyes narrowed a bit. “Everyone has gone home, it’s just us so I want to have a little chat with both of you.”

Karen recognized a certain serious tone in Roberta’s voice, so let her go on. As if on cue Roberta held out her hand. “Give me your purse.”

Karen blushed a bit asking “Why?”

“Never mind. You’ll get it back in a second.” Roberta opened it and immediately yanked out the sweater Karen had stuffed there, hours before. Roberta winked ever so slightly as she uttered. “So that’s your game,” as she eyed the label. “What size was the one you had on before lunch?”

Karen was a bit confused but played along. “6, why?”

“This is a 4. I don’t know what I’m more upset about, you thinking you could fool me with such a silly stunt or Jill for falling for it.”

Jill began to stammer.”But I…”

Roberta held out her hand. “No use denying it. I can tell by the look on your face.”

Roberta stood and went over to Karen. She pinched her here and there and clucked.” Well this is an improvement over the original, but ladies we are nowhere near on schedule yet. I’m not satisfied with the progress.”

On that note, she strode to the door saying “Follow me.” The pair dutifully followed, ending up in the lunch room.

Roberta pulled another cake from the fridge.She tasted the icing adding. Mmm pretty good if I do say so, but you’re right. “Mine is better.”

Karen’s eyes popped. “Where’d that come from?”

“Same place as the first. I went and picked it up, while you two were in there disposing of the first one.”

Karen kept on. “You seriously expect me to eat that one, too. Now.”

Roberta shrugged. “Of course now. But only half.”

No one moved, so Roberta chided them. Handing it to Jill she said. “Come on-get to work. The faster she gets this done the faster we can go home.”

Jill reddened but grabbed a fork and approached. “Sit down please.” Karen was about to protest, but Roberta’s glare indicated that would not be wise. Dutifully sitting she held out her hand for the fork. Instead Jill said “Let me. I want to go home, too.”

Thrusting the first forkful in front of Karen’s face she fed the cake to her “subject”, coaxing her bit by bit until 20 minutes later, half was gone.

Satisfied Jill said “There. All done. Now, can we please go home?”

Roberta shook her head. “Not quite done, yet. Feel her stomach.”

Looking at Karen for a sign she rolled her eyes and nodded. Despite the soft layer of fat on the outside Jill could feel the firmness underneath, indicating how full she was. 

“That’s what to look for. Don’t let her take charge. Keep her full like that or…”

Jill looked at Karen, who seemed in a daze. “You okay? How do you feel?”

Roberta calmed her. “She’s fine. As for how she feels, I’d like you to find out for yourself.

Jill turned to see Roberta holding the other half of the cake and a morsel towards her. “Your turn, honey.”

Jill’s eyes gaped in soick. “Me, but why?”

“Well first off because I really do want you to see what it’s like, so you’ll know what Karen is going through. Also it’s a bit of punisment for lying to me.”

Jill stammered again. “Lying?”

“Come off it girl. If you’re going to eat her food, at least wipe the chocolate stains off your mouth. How much of that other cake did Karen con into you?”

Jill looked down. “Two pieces.”

“Well you can have this for a chaser. That should teach you.” Jill winced, as the first mouthful went in.

Karen held up her hand. “Wait. Point taken. Give me something to drink and a few minutes. I’ll eat it.”

Roberta smiled.” Really?”

“Really. It’s me that’s supposed to get fat, after all. You want me to try harder, then you get your wish. Got any juice?”

“Must be some around here.” Jill why don’t you go clean yourself up, while we finish this.

Jill disappeared and true to her word, Karen began to tuck into the remaining cake. Roberta offered, “You don’t have to finish. I made my point.”

Karen shrugged “ It’s okay. I could eat more than this, even. I was just stalling for the dramatic effect.”

Roberta whistled. “My God girl, where do you put it?”

Karen smiled. “You’re both amateurs compared to Anna. What was all that earlier drama about anyway?”

Roberta smiled. “It was just my idea of fun and getting Jill into the right attitude. Now she thinks she’s in control. Let’s keep it that way-for the most part.”

The two were still laughing as Jill stepped in asking. “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing” said Karen. Standing to leave she pushed the empty plate aside. “I’m out of here.”

Jill needed no encouragement and was out the door, in a second. The two shared looks in the elevator, Jill  musing about her close call today, as she watched Karen massage her swollen belly. Karen for her part, wondered what she’d have for dinner. She would find out very soon!

[maltesefalcon]

Helen/Toni Milan June 1/2009

Never having seen someone actually trying to gorge themselves into obesity, Helen was a bit terrified at the spectacle. She was relieved a bit when Toni spoke finally. “I hear you are staying her with me. It will be nice to have company. Bit lonely here.”

Connie asked. “Want some more…”

“No thanks miss. I really am full now. But I will be sure to ask for more soon. I will do as you asked.”

Connie smiled at the victory. “Good girl. Now out, you know the rules.” One of the feeders shooed her out and locked the door behind her.

A bit taken aback Helen asked “You locked her in?”

“No. Out, actually. She is free to leave anytime she wants. But she is not allowed in the kitchen, unless she is eating. It’s part of the conditioning process. You attach fond memories to this room, you will want to come back. We only allow you in here if you eat and don’t allow food anywhere else. Works well.”

On that note, she added more sternly to her remaining employees. “Hourly from now on. I want her ready for next month. No excuses. I think she has all the incentive she needs.”

Rosa suggested. “How about Plan B?”

Connie nodded. “Makes sense. Give it a try. Now leave us a while, please.”

Helen took her aside whispering.  “So she is here for the same reason as me. You were a bit harsh, though.”

Connie cautioned “My little pep talk was not an act.  If we do this right, she will be a superstar. Did you get a good look at her?”

Helen nodded. “She’s gained a lot from the looks of her. You were right about one thing. She’s doomed to be a big girl eventually.”

“Don’t say doomed-destined. You are right,though. In less than a year she’s put on more than 30 kilo. But did you really take note of what I was driving at? With all that extra weight, she’s added 17.5 cm to her hips and bust, but only 10 to her waist. She’s filling out alright but she’s getting more hourglass shaped, as she gets bigger. 99% of women do the opposite. At about 30% body fat we start to thicken more in the middle. She’s got about 20 kilo left to go. At that point, she’ll look like a plump Jessica Rabbit, without a hint of cellulite.  Of course over time, she will start to sag and hormones will eventually start to even her out. But for a while…” Connie smiled lasciviously and Helen pondered her own fate.

As if reading her mind Connie remarked. “Okay if you are still serious about this, it’s your turn.”

Helen asked “How many times have you done this before?”

“Many. My helpers have had a lot of practice and know what they are doing. Most of my models have been here for a short stay, at least. I like to get even the bigger ones here, for a week or so. Models are tempermental and the rigid atmosphere helps let them know who is in charge.”

Then she looked at her friend. “They will fatten you up-believe me. Gracia is a piker by comparison. Still want to do this.”

“Want is not the question, I have no choice really.” Helen was still a little uneasy. “On that note-Rosa mentioned a Plan B? What is that?”

Connie smiled slyly. “Nothing sinister I assure you, but I prefer to keep my methods on a need-to-know basis. I’m going to leave you here tonight. I have other plans but the girls, will look after you and you have Toni for company.”

Helen nodded. “I’m still in. But I missed work today. I have to go to tomorrow, or Roberta may smell a rat.”

Connie nodded in agreement. “You may have something there.” She shrugged. “The factory cafeteria and Gracia will do a pretty good job, as it is. You can come here on weekends, for the time being. Then she leaned closer. “Don’t tell anyone you are gaining on purpose. Just let it happen. As far as Gracia is concerned, just keep eating what she gives you. It will do the trick.”

Tell you what. “Stay the night here. Learn the routine. My girls will get to know you as well. Let them feed you up and I’ll run you to work tomorrow. We’ll take the Ford.”

“Deal. So how does this work?”

Connie gave an enigmatice wink. “You’ll see. Just some advice. Don’t socialize with Toni too much. If you are not eating, get some rest. Sleep makes it work faster. And grab all you can, because they will wake you often. Now I will leave you to eat. If you sit here, the girls will feed you shortly. See you in the morning.”

[maltesefalcon]

Helen Milan June 2/2009

Rosa awoke Helen about 7. “Miss. Time to get up. We need to feed you once more, before you leave.”

Helen roused herself. “Oh not again. Please. I couldn’t.” Rosa and her sister had taken turns waking her, throughout the night. Each time, they had led her to the kitchen, where a barrage of treats awaited. No one knew her preferences yet, so they had a huge selection. Each time they made her eat non-stop for a half hour. Then, they returned her to her room to sleep it off.

Helen pulled back slightly as Rosa literally dragged her out of bed. “No argue please. Miss Constanza say if you fight us, she no help. You go home.”

Helen sighed. “Guess this is for my own good. Do your worst.”

She did not see the sly grin which Rosa had pasted on her face, as the kitchen door closed behind them.

At 8, she was returned to her room, this time in a wheelchair. Both sisters had been there and had taken turns coaxing Canollis into her. She had lost count at 2 dozen. The room was still spinning, as Rosa prepared a whirlpool bath. “You soak a bit. Feel better-you see.”

After 10 minutes, she did feel better. Rosa came in with a large carafe of wine and a glass. “Here, you drink this. Stomach will settle. Good for you.”

Helen snorted. “I need to be functional for work. I’m not drinking a litre of wine at this time of day.”

Rosa shook her head. “Special wine. Very little alcohol, but good for you. Try please-you see.”

Helen sipped it and raised an eyebrow. “It’s good. Maybe one glass.”

Rosa left her soaking and came back a half hour later. “Good you finish.” She picked up the carafe and placed another full one in its place. “You need one more. Then stomach okay to travel. Hurry please. Miss Contanza is waiting.”

This time, Helen needed no coaxing. She finished the second carafe, just as Rosa came back. “Please to use loo and clean up. I will help you with the rest.”

In 15 minutes Rosa came back. She silently did her nails, curled her hair and applied a tasteful amount of makeup. “There we dress you.”

Helen smiled. “She rubbed her now hugely distended belly. If it wasn’t for this part, I could get used to this. I feel like a queen. You do this for everyone.”

“Si, Miss. My sister do the same for Miss Toni as we speak. Make the experience as pleasant as possible-easier for everyone. Now hurry-we get you dressed.”

Helen strolled into the room and found a new send of underwear, a silk blouse and an expensive looking skirt suit on the bed. Connie was there too, keys in hand. She walked over and examained the new bulge. She asked Rosa. “Did she behave?”

Rosa nodded. “Very cooperative, Miss. She will fatten up well, once she gets used to the routine. I think we can get her over…”

Connie cut her off. “Go help your sister. I think Toni is giving her a hard time again.”

She left and Connie smiled. “So, what did you think?”

“It is tough to get used to. Especially the midnight snacks. Is that really necessary?”

Connie nodded. “Sleep deprivation is part of the routine. It breaks down resistance. Not only that, eating at night, is more effective. Builds you up faster. Normally our guests don’t have a 9 to 5 schedule. It will be easier on weekends.”

Helen got dressed and noticed that the suit was about a size too small. “With all the high tech gadgets I saw, they still can’t get it right.”

Connie disagreed. “Au contraire. I called the factory and got a suit made to fit tight, on purpose.”

Helen scoffed. “I can hardly breathe in this. And look how much my belly sticks out. I look gross.”

Connie explained. “Here’s the deal. Because you insist on your little deception plan, I only get you on weekends. If you want to achieve your goal in time, I will need extra help from your co-workers and from Gracia. If they see that their efforts to fatten you up are working, it will encourage them to  continue; especially if you seem pleased. You need to look fat, without overdoing it, or someone will suspect something is amiss. By the way, do not mention you have been here, to anyone. That will put an end to the cover story. Pretend to be at the hotel, make up whatever story you like.”

Helen looked in the mirror. “Well you are right about one thing. I look fat alright.”

Connie nodded. “That’s the other reason for this. You can see the changes for yourself, before it is too late to back out. You need to get used to seeing  yourself as a fat woman,  or you will not achieve the results hoped for. That aside, what do you think about the overall look?”

Helen ignored the bulges and focussed on her elegant hair, suit and tastefully made up features. “It’s quite good actually. Rosa knows her stuff. Speaking of her. She gave me some wine to drink this morning. I should be hammered, but I’m fine. What is it?”

“I’ll explain later. If you like, I’ll send a case to the castle. Ask Gracia for as much as you like. Now, can we go? I have another appointment.”

The two sped off in the Ford GT, Connie showing her friend how fast it would go, on the open road. In fact, they went so fast that getting in and out of the tiny racer, took almost as much time as the actual journey.

“Good luck this week.” Connie kissed her on the cheeks and patted her belly. “Keep this full at all times. I’ll see you on the weekend. This outfit better not fit by then.”

Helen wiggled off. Connie snickered. If I know those women, once they see that suit, I doubt it will fit by tomorrow. She would be right on the money.

 

[maltesefalcon]

Helen Milan June 5/2009

The next time Toni and Helen saw each other was when Helen arrived, the following weekend. Toni came in the kitchen and picked out a couple éclairs as she began to gobble them greedily. Licking her fingers, she eyed Helen and noted. “Hmm you haven’t gained much have you?”

Helen sat gaping, as she took in the newest version of the budding star. “That makes one of us!” Toni was visibly larger in every dimension.Helen gasped in disbelief.  “How much did you gain last week?”

Toni went over to her own chart and checked the numbers herself. “Looks like…8 kg.” Rubbing her now softer belly she asked. “Does it show?”

“Does it ever. 8kg, that’s like 17 pounds. I didn’t think that was even possible. I ate like there was no tomorrow last week and only gained 3 pounds. What…how….”.

Toni shrugged “Obviously it is possible. How, is plan B. You should try it too, maybe.”

Helen asked again. “That’s the second time it’s come up. What is Plan B anyway?”

Toni blanched, as she realized she may have said too much.” It is not my place to say. We each have our own situation.  You must ask Miss Costanza to explain what you need. Now, if you will excuse me I need to eat more if I am to succeed. I will stuff myself until my stomach is so full it hurts.”

Toni picked out a couple more éclairs offering one to her companion. “One can only eat so much per day after all. I am on a deadline. For me this is the only way. I should be done in a couple weeks. You too, perhaps?”

Helen gagged.She could see the younger girl’s stomach swelling with each bite as a dozen éclairs disappeared down her throat. Finally, she belched as she rubbed her swollen belly. “Oh that’s better. “

Helen’s eyes popped. “I though you weren’t trying for that look.”

Toni laughed. “Oh don’t worry. It will go down in a few hours.” Then she patted her butt and lifted one of the already massive mammary orbs. “They’ll be here by morning. Then I do it again.”

Helen made a mock gag in disgust.  “I’m not doing that. I’d be sick.”

Toni whispered. “You already have, actually. That’s one of the reasons they feed you so much at night. You’re half asleep and have no idea how much you actually eat or how often. I would say you get used to it, but you don’t really, that’s the point. But trust me. If you stay the weekend you will eat like this pretty well non-stop. Speaking of that, you better start eating something, or you will get kicked out of here.”

Helen looked around and found a box of chocolates. She began to eat them daintily and Toni laughed.

“Not like that. Let me show you.” She took a box for herself and began to wolf them down, two or three at a crack, barely chewing and swallowing as fast as she cold. In less than two minutes, she’d eaten the box.

“Your way takes too long. No wonder you didn’t gain much last week.” Toni shrugged “Perhaps  you need to decide if you want to get fatter, or not. It won’t happen by itself.  Forgive me, I need to sleep this off a bit now. As she waddled out Toni whispered again. “Best not to let anyone know I told you about...you know. Connie might not be too happy.”

Helen nodded. “Mum’s the word. See you soon.” She went back to her chocolates. Now alone, she followed Toni’s example and in 15 minutes had eaten 2 boxes and a cherry pie. Feeling a bit sick, she decided to lay down herself and wait for the next round, which would not be long in coming.

[maltesefalcon]

Karen/Jill New York June 4/2009

Roberta had assigned Jill and Karen a sort of modelling project. Karen was to try on a variety of clothes every day and Jill was to take pictures. Officially, it was to catalog the latest assortment in clothing. Unofficially, it was to give Karen an excuse to leave the office often enough to keep her from being eyed all day. She would still be getting bigger, but now her colleagues would only see occasional glimpses, thereby increasing the impact.

And she would get bigger. Jill was determined to keep her full, constantly buying snacks and even bringing some with her in the morning. Karen dutifully wolfed them down, without comment. Jill of course had no way of knowing the whole thing was Karen’s idea in the first place. By the third day of the photo shoot things were moving smoothly. Mary stopped in and noticed Jill struggling with the waistband of her jeans. Again.

Jill looked up. “Last years’ pair. I’ve put on five pounds since then.  Now, they’re too small.” She pinched the soft muffin top to illustrate. “Guess it’s diet time again…”

Mary put down her coffee. “You could lose ten pounds, and those jeans still would not fit right, honey.”

Jill bristled at that retort. “Give me a break, will you? I’m not that fat…”

Mary stopped her. “No! No! That’s not what I meant. Jill, you’re not fat at all. You have a lovely figure, in fact.”

Jill paused. “Really?”

Mary nodded. “Would you take some advice from an old bird like me?” Jill was curious now and nodded. “Karen you listen to this too. We are going to discuss Fitting 101.” She approached Jill and said “Okay let me show you. May I touch you?” She had not forgotten her first day with Karen and took a slower approach. Luckily, Jill agreed.

Mary went behind her and tried to stick two of her fingers in the waistband on each side of her spine. They didn’t even begin to budge it. “Okay lesson one, any skirt or pants need to pass this test at the beltline, for proper fit. There’s no need to have them so tight. Men will still see your curves in a size bigger. Wouldn’t solve the whole issue, though.”

“Oh?” said Karen.

“Let me explain. Jill show me where your waistline is.”

Jill pointed at the waistband of the jeans.

“Wrong I’m afraid, and 99% of women make the same mistake. That’s the beltline of these pants and it is nowhere near your actual waist. That little muffin top, is the result of your pants doing their level best to eject you out of them. Let me show you. Take this stuff off. Leave your bra and panties on.”

Jill was shy at first, but with some coaxing, finally dropped the trousers and t-shirt to the floor. Karen took a moment to examine the young woman’s figure. She noticed that her young companion was becoming soft, like herself only weeks before. As she moved slightly, the extra layer of fat on her legs jiggled ever so slightly. Karen noticed a slight hint of cellulite already forming on the back of her thighs. Her butt was larger than Karen’s, projecting out in defiance of gravity, quivering as she approached. The legs and waistband of her panties cut deeply into the flesh, indicating it was time for a diet or an increase in wardrobe size. If Karen played it right, it would be the latter, not the former tactic which prevailed.

Karen touched her own belly as she noticed Jill’s. It pooched out slightly and there was the distinct line where a fold was beginning to form. No hint of abs or muscle tone anywhere, in fact. Karen felt a bit jealous, in fact. She had had to make a superhuman effort to get this big and Jill had done the same without even trying. She put the thought out of her head as Mary took a piece of elastic binding and tied it around Jill’s waist, about 2 inches above her navel.

“That’s where the natural waistline is, for most women. The narrowest part of their torso is midway between the bottom of their bust and their navel. That’s about 2 inches above the belt line.”

“So?” asked Jill.

“So that’s why jeans fit so badly on women. Men have straight torsos, and their natural waistline doesn’t vary much from their beltline. But women usually have much bigger hips, than waists. That makes it worse. To compensate, the jean companies make women’s styles now with more room in the hips and thighs and narrower waists. But they only work on pear shapes, not women like yourself.”

Jill argued “But I am pear-shaped. I got over that years ago.”

Mary shook her head. “Who told you that nonsense? Pear-shaped women have very wide hips for their size and narrow waistlines. If they gain weight, they tend to add it to the outside of their thighs. You on the other hand have a large hip measurement ,but not large hips.

Intrigued Karen asked. “How’s that work exactly?”

“I’ll show you.” She took a ruler from the desk and asked Jill to remain perfectly still. She sat the ruler crosswise on the shelf formed by her buttocks and let go. It didn’t budge.

Again, 99% of women can’t do that, the ruler would hit the floor. You have a fleshier, more rounded butt and the fullness of your thighs is at the back, not the sides. Despite what they say to each other, most men like it actually. The technical term is steatopygia, but it’s usually referred to as…”

“Bubble butt.” Jill felt it herself and agreed. “I know. Long as I don’t end up with too much of a good thing.”

Mary indicated her displeasure at the interruption. “Anyway, gist of it is you need more material in the rear pocket section of the garment, than in the front. They don’t make ‘em that way. If they need two inches of waistband they add an inch to front and back. You’re fidgeting with your jeans, because the rear part is stretching too much. You ever notice that your front pockets seem out of place and distorted? Another dead giveaway is the fabric over your zipper won’t actually cover it, when you’re wearing them, right?”

Jills eyes widened. “Yes, actually.”

“They also don’t take into account, woman have more flesh over the pelvic area. Tends to bind in the crotch and create that lovely little false belly effect. Doesn’t help, when women try to buy jeans, one size too small.  Jeans were designed to be work clothes, to fit loosely. Somehow, someone decided that skin tight was the new sexy. Some kids can’t even put their fingers in their pockets. It’s partly because women will buy jeans based on waist size, not belt size. The waistband squishes everything in, but it has to go somewhere. Wearing clothes that are too small can make you look fat, in fact.”

Karen sat silently taking that in, hoping Jill would not catch on to her favourite illusion.

Mary said “One more demonstration. Walk around a bit Jill.” The young woman did as she was asked and when through, Mary asked. “What happened?”

Jill looked down. The elastic had moved up nearly 1-1/2 inches already.

“The waistline is riding up, trying to find the smallest circumference. On men, their straight torso allows their pants to ride up and down somewhat, as they move. When women have pants on, their natural curves made them try to ride up but the crotch holds ‘em down. You end up with an uncomfortable tug of war in the most sensitive places. They pull right at the bottom of the crotch right?”

“You know, I never thought of that. You’re right.” Jill said “So what do I do?”

“Well for starters don’t wear pants, at least not the ones they make today. No matter how you spin it, we’re not really built for ‘em, but if you need to, at least buy men’s pants. They have larger waists, which will help with your particular issue.”

Now fascinated, Jill asked. “Issue, what issue?”

“Honey, the reason you say you look fat, is that tops and pants meet at the wrong spot for you. Your flesh is being squeezed where it doesn’t want to go.Tilt sideways for a second.” Jill did that and Mary marked the spot where her torso creased, with a felt pen.

“Okay here’s your natural waist. It’s almost even with your nipple line, with a gradual taper to your hips. You are not a pear shape. You are what we call a triangle or delta shape. It means you really don’t have a proper waistline at all, at least not in the fashion definition of the word. Maybe I can illustrate better this way.” She grabbed a slip from the back and said “Put this on. Pull it over your head.”

Doing as instructed Jill got it about halfway to her hips, until the elastic was stretched to the limit. “Sorry, it’s too small.”

Mary shook her head. “No it isn’t, try this.” She slid it up, until it almost touched her bra line. “There. It won’t slide up or down now. How’s it feel other than the length?”

Jill wrinkled her nos e as Karen fought the urge to laugh. “Feels weird, actually. Looks weird too.”

“I know. You’re not used to the pressure on the upper part of your body, and of course it doesn’t reach down nearly far enough now. Trust me though, women wore skirts nearly this high until the sixties. Then they ruined fashion design forever when they…”

“…started to wear pants.” finished Karen, beginning to grasp the concept. “Actually I saw that show Mad Men. Joan’s dresses do have a very high waist and she had a skirt on that ended just under her bustline.” Karen thought of the voluptuous redhead again, hoping she would emerge from her own transformation, with similar appeal.

“Good example. You know the show.”

Jill said “I’ve never watched it, but I know the character. You’re right now that you mention it, all her styles are like that.”

Mary nodded in agreement. “So there you are. Now, would you say she was fat?”

Jill shook her head immediately.” Are you kidding she’s beaut….oh I get it. Right clothes for the right body.”

“Bingo!” said Mary. “You’re learning.” Mary was happy and did not tell them that “Joan” was a rare beauty, and she would have looked fetching, wearing a flour sack.

Jill said “This is all well and good, but I need to wear something and not a slip under my armpits.”

Again, the older woman smiled and nodded. “I agree. She got a larger slip and handed it over. This time, it was a full coverage. Once on, the baggy garment did nothing to endear Jill at all. She pulled at the baggy waistline and was about to protest.Before she could do so, Mary pinned it in several places taking up the slack under the arms. That completed Jill realized the bottom portion fit properly and now the pinned up sides hugged her figure, but did not pinch at all. “Walk around a bit see how it feels.”

Jill did just that noting right away that the altered garment draped over her and conformed itself to her every movement, this time without riding up. “Wow, it fits way better! You’re a genius.”

Mary pulled at the side to offer. “And no binding either, since there is no waistband to hold it up. Even a skirt, is better than pants, because you can sneak another inch or two onto it without noticing. Just remember, make sure you get one that fits your waist first, not your hips.”

But if you stick to dresses for now, you can take them in a bit and still be comfortable. “What size are you. Four?” Mary went back and got a size four knit dress and a size six cotton halter dress. She hollered back “What size bra do you wear?”

Jill blushed as she offerd “33B.”

Mary returned, with a nice pink version.

“Here put this on and I’ll fit it up. Dressing rooms’ over…”

Before she could finish, Jill had dropped hers and grabbed the new one. “Who are we kidding? Let’s get on with it.”

Mary continued. “This is a 35A, with an uplift.” In a moment, Jill was pleasantly surprised. “Your back strap was pulling your skin out of shape. The cups were too big too, and your boobs were lost in them. This shaper bra will make them look fuller.”

Jill and Karen both gaped at the change. “Wow that’s amazing. And it feels way better.”

Mary offered. “Most women wear the same bra size for years, even if it doesn’t fit. They just get used to it. You should get fitted every year, just in case.”

Karen smirked. Once a year would not be enough, based on her own experience and the likelihood that Jill would experience somewhat the same situation.

“There. You’ll look smoother and slimmer because you won’t have those odd bulges under your arms.” Jill slipped the knit dress over herself and looked in the mirror. “See? The material stretches, to find its own equilibrium. You look damn sexy, but you could still wear this all day. And look. No tummy bulge. No muffin pits. Just a smooth feminine appearance.  Here’s another hint. Under no circumstances wear a belt over a long tight sweater or knit dress. It will divide your tummy into two bulges no matter how much you weigh. Even a supermodel looks fat, doing that.”

 Jill nodded. Karen was going to make a mental note of it, but instead put a belt on and cinched it in. It worked! Another little trick, to make her look a little bigger than she was.

Mary clapped her hands for emphasis. “Okay, that’s one. We’ll try another. Take that off and put the white shirt on first. Then, she slipped the strapped dress over top.

Jill frowned “Its too big.”

Mary said “Not really.” She smoothed it over Jill’s hips, advising, “Fits okay here, you just need to take it in a bit under the arms.”

Both Karen and Jill wrinkled their nose up, at that.

Mary looked skyward. “Please don’t tell me neither of you can sew.” The blank stares answered the question.  Mary sighed “Turn it inside out and put it back on.” She showed the other two women how to pin it, to take up the slack and ran a couple seams in the machine.  Trimming it, she handed it back and once Jill had slipped it back on she smiled.

“It does fit. Looks really good, too.”

Mary nodded. “Little neck scarf or even a pink tie would go with. Good look for the office, and very chic these days.”

Jill hugged her and offered “Oh wait, you ruined this dress.”

Mary waved her aside. “They’re flawed, we only use them for photo sessions. Keep ‘em it’s okay we took the labels out. Now don’t let me see you two in jeans around here any more.”

Jill was convinced at least. “No problem. “

But there would be a problem soon. Jill had used her muffin top and tight pants as a sort of barometer, to measure for any increase in size. That barometer was now gone and it would not be too long before her physique would take advantage of that.

The two enjoyed their morning and soon lunch time rolled around again. Mary decided to join them.

They went back to the buffet and Mary admonished Jill. Now that I’ve straightened you out so to speak, maybe today, you’ll actually eat something. Jill did as before bringing several trays of food, replenishing Karen as she ate. But this time she kept some for herself. She ate two servings plus dessert, a milestone.

Once complete, she sat back in the realization that she had been released somehow. The pattern was started and it was hard to reverse. Karen of course continued to eat like there was no tomorrow, and by the end of the next month (week 12 of her odessy) had gained a further 26 pounds, bringing her to 165 and pushing the limit of size 8 clothing.

At 29” now, her belly was still growing, but the rest of her was starting to catch up. Her hips were filling out more and more, becoming rounded with a two-inch thick layer of fat. She could feel how soft and feminine they were. Roy loved it. Even more, he loved what was happening up top. As hoped, her boobs had blossomed now. At 38” she now needed a D-cup to contain them. She examined herself in the mirror. They were getting so big now, she needed to wear a heavier style bra to keep them from sagging. Instead of being miffed at that, she was delighted and considered the upper burden to be a badge of honor.

To both Roy and Roberta’s mutual delight, she conveniently ignored that she’d already surpassed the latest “goal” by 5 pounds-again. She formally renewed the original comittment to Roy for size 10, as promised. Now that she was assured if her boobs grew correspondingly, it wouldn’t be so bad. Then she was done. Time would prove, she was right about the first assumption, but dead wrong on the second.

[maltesefalcon]

Helen/Toni Milan June 21/2009

Helen would only see Toni in person, one more time. Now another 9 kilos heavier, she was only 3 away from Connie’s target. She spent most of their time together filling her face; but managed to squeeze in a bit of a shot.  “How much have you gained? From the look of you-not much.”

Helen blushed. “It’s not really any of your business…”

Toni nodded. “That’s true. Just so you’ll know, Connie won’t wait much longer. If you don’t fill out more and quickly, she will move on.”

Helen blushed even redder and asked. “Move on? Did you think we were…? Look, we aren’t a couple.”

Toni nodded unconvincingly but smiled. “Whatever you say. But I noticed the way she looked at you, the first night we met. Forgive my boldness, but you aren’t a model, so why are you doing this if not for love.”

Helen blushed.  “It’s a private matter. Connie has agreed to help me with it out of friendship.”

Toni smiled.”Friendship. Call it what you want, but be careful. She has a way of getting what she wants. Your wishes will be irrelevant. I’m a perfect example of that.”

 No truer words were ever spoken. In three weeks, Toni had gained the required extra weight, bringing her to 90 kilo/200 pounds. Connie’s predictions about her growth had been right on the money. She had gained another inch on her waist, her pot belly poking out a little further.  Her cheeks were a little puffier and the tops of her arms and shoulders had rounded a little more as well. By comparison, her hips had absolutely ballooned. At 48 inches, they jiggled with every motion and she barely squeezed into the tight satin shorts she wore, for the final reveal. She was pleased herself, and wiggled her butt provocatively, to see her own flesh move in synch with the music.

Up top, the transformation was even more uncanny. Her breasts, now at 50” occupied more than half of her chest. The F-cup bra top she wore, was quite simply unequal to the task of containing the still firm globes. Every breath she took caused them to swell out, in an attempt to escape the low-cut top she had on. Toni asked for Helen’s opinion.  “What do you think?”

The nonplussed former “room mate” just offered. “Well you were both right. Connie said you’d end up just like this. And you do look like a cartoon, but not in a bad way. It’s unbelievable.”

Toni smiled. “I know, I didn’t believe her, either. I like it actually, now that I’m used to it. I may even try to get bigger.”

Helen assumed there would be no issues from anyone else, if that developed. As a matter of fact, circumstances would take over. Toni of course did some plus-size modelling, but she was such an instant hit, she branched out.

The next tack was a “Got Milk?” commercial; where a calf sucking from its mother, strolled over to her instead. The next was a bit more risqué. It opened with a picture of a cat lapping up a saucerful, as Toni goes over to investigate a scratching at the door. She would see hundreds of cats lined up all over her lawn, with a dozen or so men behind, waiting their turn. Finally, one where she jiggled along a beach in a bikini as several flat-chested mothers glared at her. Their infants took one look at her assets and their own mother’s and began wailing in unison. Even for French TV, it was considered too provocative; but somehow it ended up on YouTube. Before her “cooking show” debuted, she was the already most famous person in France.

Said show’s premise was actually a sort of reality-based docudrama, about the making of a French cooking show. They hired Marcel Labin, a real Cordon Bleu chef, who prepared the menu and did the bulk of the cooking. The rest of the show revolved around the misadventures of his klutzy assistant, (Toni of course) and his ill-concealed lust for her. The subplot was that he was “secretly” fattening her up, with the dishes they made together.  He dreamed of her cooking all day, then eating herself round for him-just for him…

For her part, she wore expensive and completely inappropriate sexy outfits, on camera. Often her growth caused wardrobe failures; which gave the producers the excuse they needed, to both weigh and measure her progress on camera. The episode where she hit 100 kilos and 52-26-51, was punctuated by the button on her blouse over her now G-cups sailing directly into the bouillabaisse. The show’s final episode had the already married Marcel offering to leave his own marriage for her, after she had complained no one would want a 120 kilogram wife. By then, her assets had swollen to 58HH-29-56 and she was getting more than 100 proposals a day. It was not only the most watched cooking show ever conceived; it was the only one where 70% of the viewers were men. Not just French men, either. Cuisine avec Marcel et Toni became the second most popular French export, after champagne.)

For now her, handlers shooed her out to meet her destiny; while Connie resolved what to do with her “roomie.”

[maltesefalcon]

Karen/Jill New York

Jill scanned the corridor, to ensure she was alone; then stepped on the scale in the back room of the warehouse. Quickly, she noted the number, before anyone else saw her. Her efforts to fatten up her co-worker were producing results, but there was unwelcome collateral damage. She had put on 10 pounds as well. I could not be helped she reasoned. Once Karen was up to par, she’d get back to her normal routine.

Fortunately for now, as Roberta had predicted, nearly all of it went to her butt, now taping out at 41”. Because it had been her most prominent and sexiest feature to start with, she ignored the trend. There was no belly bulge or muffin top revealed through her more stylish wardrobe, so she ignored the issue. As long as no one noticed, she figured it didn’t matter. It was a misjudgement that would change her life.

Karen came in wearing a halter top and tight spandex leggings. It was time to have some fun with her “handler”. Munching away on an apple fritter she asked Jill. “What do you think about this outfit? Too slutty?”

“Slutty doesn’t do the word justice.” she scoffed. “It makes you look even fatter, than you really are too.” Jill winced immediately, at her poor choice of words.

Karen smiled. “Good, I thought so too. Mind you, what’s the point of getting fat on purpose, then trying to camoflague the result? Hope Roy likes it; I’m wearing this home tonight. I’ll bring it back in the morning.” Then she whispered “I need to look as big as possible, to make an impact with this. ‘Cause I’m trying to find a way to tell Roberta I’m stopping here.”

The double revelation flabbergasted Jill, who  gulped “Pardon me? Roy? I was under the impression that your husband was just resigned to this. You telling me he actually likes it?”

Karen realized she’d said too much. Damage control. “Oh. Yeah. That was just a happy accident. When I told him about the project; he confessed he thought I’d always been on the thin side, and offered his full support. Frankly, I can’t get him to leave me alone any more. It’s private and a little creepy to me, so I’ll appreciate it if you keep this between us.”

Jill nodded, but kept that little tidbit, for future reference.

Karen continued “Anyway, there are limits. There’s fat and there’s fat. If I keep eating like this, eventually I won’t be able to stop, when the time comes. At the rate I’m growing now, I’ll end up like Roberta, by the end of the year. Can you imagine how much I’ll weigh by the time I’m her age? It scares me to death, and I’m not doing it for love nor money, literally. I’m done. Roberta can find someone else. Roy too, for that matter, if he pushes it.”

Jill feared Roberta would do just that and she knew exactly who’d be on deck. Concealing her panic, she wished her colleague good night. Once Karen had left the building, she shot into Mary’s office and let her know the situation. Mary nodded. “Figured she’d do that, sooner or later. She wanted big boobs out of all this, kept harping about getting to a D-cup. Now that she’s there…well you know the rest. Don’t worry, we’ll get her back on track tomorrow.”

Next morning, Karen came in, to find Mary and Jill already there. Facing away from her, Jill was naked from the waist up, and Mary was fitting some type of bra to her. Karen ignored the tray of éclairs on the table “You two got an early start.”

Jill peered over her shoulder and offered “We’ll be done in a minute.”

“There” Mary said. as she adjusted the bra straps to fit. “Now slip this over top, handing her a pink pullover.” Jill did as asked and once smoothed over, Mary nodded. “How does it feel?”

Jill shrugged. “Okay I guess. Different, though.”

“Well it’s convincing, I’ll give you that. Looks good on you.”

Before Karen could say anything, Mary advised. “Let’s get a second opinion, shall we?”

She spun Jill around and Karen nearly fainted. Jill had some type of padded bra on. Padding was an understatement. Karen was confronted by the sight of Jill’s sweater stretched to bursting, with two bulging globes on her formerly moderate bustline. She looked huge! Karen stifled an instict to laugh out loud and asked. “What is that ridiculous getup all about?”

Mary scowled at her. “This is a prototype of a bra, for larger women who’ve lost a breast. You know... Jill was kind enough to help me out.  But as long as you get a big laugh out of it, it was all worth it.”

Karen held up her hand. “Sorry, bad choice of words. I surrender. It’s just a bit of a shock.” She looked at Jill again and compared the massive protuberances to her own. “You look pretty good with a larger bust actually. How big is that?”

“DD. They come bigger, too. Anyway, Jill do me a favour? Could you wear this around today? Need to see if it feels comfortable, and if anybody can tell it’s not all you. But do me a favour-no stripper poses. Large breasted women usually are more demure. They don’t need to advertise.”

Jill looked down. “Whoa, I can’t see my feet! Hope I don’t tip over.”

Mary rolled her eyes. “Alright, you’ve had your fun. Now can we get to work?”

The day went as normal, for the most part. Jill tried her best not to draw attention to herself, but occasionally her newfound growth got in the way. She had after all, grown from an A to a DD in ten minutes. Karen could not help staring, not only at Jill, but at the other diners, over the lunch period. The massive orbs and the skin tight sweater, made sure she was the centre of attention. After lunch Karen asked. “Think I could try one of those?”

Mary smiled. “I have another one that would fit you, but it’s an E. Probably more proportional anyway.”

Karen said “That will be fine.” After five minutes parading around with her newfound growth, Karen admitted. “It’s intriguing, but just like the fat suit-it’s not real.”

Jill jumped on that. “Could be, though. Take my advice, you’re a bigger girl now. Even DD would be lost on you.” She handed her an éclair. “Wouldn’t take much more, to get there for real, you know”

“Why do I feel this was a setup all along?”Karen pondered for a second. “What the heck, you’re right, the bigger size does look better on me. I’ll keep going long as my boobs catch up. But once they’re this big, I am done for sure.”

Jill chose her wods carefully. “It’s your decision, but I think you made the right one.”

Mary added “There you go. They actually make you look smaller elsewhere.” Jill grimaced at that, fearing it would have the wrong impact. She needn’t have worried.

Karen had been mezmorized from the get-go and needed no convincing. “Roy will love it too, who are we kidding? Gone this far-in for a penny, in for a pound.” 25 pounds actually, was what it would take to get her from D to DD. But the first bit was the most important, and she was already on her way.

Jill relaxed; secure in the knowledge she was off the hook-for now at least. Neither she nor Mary were  aware, that their colleague never intended to quit in the first place. Not yet, anyway.

[maltesefalcon]

Helen/MIlan

Connie greeted her friend with a glazed eye, as she began to look her over.

Helen asked. “Something wrong?”

Connie tsked. “I don’t see much of a change, so far. Are you sure you want this?” She looked at Helen’s chart. “Is there something special you like. My girls are trying hard.”

Helen looked around. “I imagined a sort of spa enviroment. This is more like a…”

“Clinic?” offered Connie.

“Actually I was going to say factory. Bit cold.”

“Don’t worry you will enjoy it. Give it some time. Look how delectable Toni turned out.”

“Ah.”Helen probed. “You...like her. That would explain the hard line you took.”

“Not in the way you are implying. She would appeal more to men, and vice versa. Especially since she is not very gifted, intellectually.  Although many models are quite bright, it actually isn’t a requirement. Unfortunately, Toni does fit the stereotype. It is not a trait I find endearing.”

Helen looked around again. “What will happen to me, now that she’s gone?”

“Glad you asked. No time like the present. Ladies. Breakfast time.”

On cue, the two girls went to the stove and filled plate after plate with food. Helen tasted the wine, again. “Hmm good, but a different aftertaste.”

“You like it? I’ll make sure we give you plenty.”

Without thinking Helen offered. “Not too much. Alcohol is really fattening…” ,then she laughed in spite of herself. She held out the glass for more. “Just don’t turn me into a lush.”

Connie smiled. “Don’t worry, the alcohol level is very low. But it will put on the weight, like crazy. Get as much in you as possible. Maybe, I’ll give you the recipe.” Maybe not. The wine was actually a blend of de-alcoholized white wine, flavouring and a special olive oil. It was pressed from genetically enhanced olives, which produced an odourless, tasteless product that would not separate. If Helen had half a bottle at each meal, it would be like eating a pound of lard. That was partly how they had ballooned Toni up so quickly, and without fuss. The food was just to keep her happy and prevent diahraea. She was none the wiser, but plan B was the piece de resistance.

Connie watched, as the 2 sisters coaxed Helen into gorging herself, washing it down with copious glasses of “wine”. She slipped out unnoticed and hoped this weekend Helen would get on schedule. Time would tell.