Thorns of Luxury #MyHandmaidsTale

Thorns of Luxury

Today we're going the market – a rare occasion for the residents of Galloway. My father has made sure that not only my mother and older sister look presentable, but also myself. Lately, he has locked himself in his study and argues with people over the telephone – another luxury that he has. Yet today, his face is stone cold and grim; like he's going to die or something. Banners hung on the town buildings and there were roses at every entry way; and I couldn't help, but admire the handy work.

"Papa? Are you angry?"

"Do not speak. People watch and like to spread rumors. Just keep quiet, Melanie. We don't want people to get upset."

I just go back to standing next to him. A few moments later, we're in the middle of the market with other young girls and older men. They're examining the ones standing still, checking on: height, hair color, skin color, weight, and whether or not they are able to procreate. Startled by my realization, I stop dead in my tracks. Silence washed over the town as everyone froze and stared directly at me. The music buzzed and the little girls chattered; but the men stared as if I was broken. You could hear the wind whirling in the air, whistling against the buildings – that is how silent it was. Then, I took one step towards my father and he placed a tag on my wrist.

It was red with numbers on it: MEL17639-0097. A code? For what? A contest? What is this?

A gentleman canters over to us and examines me. His name is Master Adam Hale; and he looks down at me with his soft eyes and says, "She will do. How much do you want? I believe she is the solution to my problem. So, Mr. Douglas – how much do you want for your youngest daughter? 5? 6? 10? 25? What will it be?"

I'm becoming his handmaid. This is what we are born to do. To sleep with our master and make him happy. To give up our life and serve him and his needs. Master Adam will be my boss and I will no longer be the little girl. I woke up this morning: bubbly and eager. Ready to go to the market and have fun; little did I realize that I was being examined, judged, and sold to the highest bidder.

"25. That will do. I have three other daughters. Would you like them as well?"

"I suppose 25 for each right? You're a smart man, Douglas. I'll take them all."

Just like that we are sold. Just like that we a thrown into a carriage made of wood and splinters; and taken to our new home. Our forever home. To be sex slaves to our masters. Dirt smudged on our faces as we watch our father and mother buy a girl younger for the same reason. Luxuries as he would call it. That's all we are.