NOTE: Thank you so much for the wonderful reception to the last chapter! I appreciate the encouragement!

This chapter was *so* difficult to write! I had fun with it, but it's hard having these two out in public after they've come so far together.

Speaking of encouragement Wondo has published another short story to go along with this! She's the one who pushed me to tackle a 'reverse-slave' world and I love that she's happy enough with the results to write fic in this AU as well. A wonderful look at the lightning storm from El's perspective. If you search for 'Animula' you'll find her series of stories that go along with this AU. Hugs!

Chapter Forty-one

"Are you ready?"

"Honestly?"

"Peter, if you can't do this…"

"I'm just nervous." Peter admitted. "I'll manage."

"If you need more time we can reschedule." Neal assured.

"Time isn't the issue."

"Understood." Neal nodded. "Let's go."

"Yes, Master Halden." Peter replied solemnly.

Three days of having Peter calling him 'Master' again hadn't really helped Neal adapted to the title. He still hated hearing it, particularly in the setting of his apartment which he would rather have as a safe environment for them both. If the day went well he was going to ask if they could get back on a first name basis when they were alone. Neal had accepted the idea at first, but he was starting to worry that the constant reminder of the social rift between them was going to do more harm than good for them both. Neal was already used to slipping on aliases like a second skin and he was confident that he could change Nick Halden into Master Halden without having to practice being dominant over Peter while he was Caffrey. Keeping his various personalities separate was already part of his skill set.

Looking like he had some experience with dual personalities himself Peter fell back into his role and automatically opened the door with a slight bow before stepping to the side to let Neal enter the stairwell first. Neal did step out first, but he made sure to keep an eye on Peter on the way down the stairs. He had made serious gains with his endurance over the past few days now that he was off the powerful IV antibiotics. However Neal still worried that Peter would do his best to hide any weaknesses and that he'd have to be vigilant to make sure Peter didn't push himself too hard too soon. Neal hoped that they wouldn't be out for more than few hours today. Peter made it to the bottom of the stairs without any trouble and he went to open the front door for Neal.

"Wait." Neal said before Peter could touch the door.

Peter froze in place, having been given a direct order. He didn't question why Neal had stopped him, he didn't even glance at him. Neal's stomach turned a little at how literally Peter had taken his word. Neal hadn't meant it to sound like he was testing Peter's reaction to an order, but he feared that it might seem that way to Peter. Neal hadn't seen Peter's vacant stare in a while, but it was back now and Neal doubted that it was just an act. He knew how anxious Peter was about being in public even under the best circumstances and with forged papers in Neal's pocket things were far from ideal if they were questioned.

"Peter, I want to apologize in advance for anything Nick says or does today."

"You don't have to apologize, I understand."

"I know you understand, but I still feel an apology is warranted."

"Just get us both home safely and all is forgiven."

"Deal."

Feeling better having gained Peter's forgiveness before hand Neal allowed Peter to open the door and they headed out. Neal discovered that walking through the city with Peter a step behind him much more stressful than the last time he'd taken him out a month ago. The first time they had ventured into the city Neal had been more focused on using Peter to gain access into the richer company buildings. He hadn't really worried about anyone challenging his ownership of the Animula at the time, because he hadn't been very concerned over the concept of losing him since he hadn't cost anything to acquire. Now that he had developed the beginning of a true friendship with Peter he was terrified that people would somehow sense that they had what was considered an unnatural relationship and seek to tear them apart to restore order.

Making their way quickly towards their destination in Midtown Neal found himself avoiding eye contact with people when usually he didn't worry about casually catching people's glance. Neal had never felt so separated from the rest of the humanity that surrounded him, feeling not only as though he suddenly had nothing in common with any of them, but also that they were all a direct threat. Neal was used to being the predator in a crowd, always looking for an easy target for a con, now he had to keep a sharp eye out to make sure he and Peter didn't become prey. Far more uncomfortable with being out among the humans Peter stayed directly behind Neal's left shoulder without looking around, counting on Neal to guard as well as guide him through the streets.

Neal was grateful to arrive at the tailor without incident. He was just about to reach out to open the door when Peter slipped in and opened it for him. Neal took a breath to say 'thank you' but caught himself before he actually said anything. Neal risked looking at Peter who looked up at him briefly with a quick nod to let Neal know he was still willing to do this. Having the go ahead Neal entered the well appointed men's store and headed towards the back. Nick was well known here and when he had called to let them know he was bringing an Animula in for a whole new wardrobe they hadn't even hesitated to set something up. A large sale was enticing enough for them not to care about the unusual client. The store owner was expecting him and the older gentleman hurried out from his office to greet Neal with a wide smile.

"Mr. Halden." Harper greeted formerly.

"Richard," Neal replied warmly "how's business?"

"Oh, you know me, can't complain." Harper looked over Neal's shoulder at Peter. "I see you're moving up in the world yourself. It's not just anyone who can afford to have an Animula follow him around."

"I got a good deal on him."

"Even so, I'm impressed. Although I have to admit I was a little surprised to hear you had acquired an Animula, sound financial planing doesn't really strike me as your style." Harper chuckled.

"He's mostly for show." Neal forced himself to laugh as well.

"Ah, well in that case you need to dress him better." Harper teased. "Of course that's why you're here. Come on back."

Starting to feel sick to his stomach Neal followed Harper towards the large fitting room in the back. The way Harper casually talked about Peter as though he wasn't standing right there listening was disconcerting. There were several other businessmen in the shop that had stopped their browsing when Neal had entered with Peter. Far from the fearful or disgusted look that the average person on the street gave them Neal could see a distinct hint of envy in their eye. The raise in status from privately owning an Animula had been exactly what Neal had hoped for when he first decided to keep Peter, but so much had changed since them. Not enjoying his new place at the top of the social pecking order Neal wondered how he could have ever wanted this.

The fitting room was more of an extension of the store with the finer goods on display around the walls of the octagon shaped room. The center held a dais for fitting and modeling with a three panel mirror along the wall behind it. Harper invited them both inside before closing the door and locking it for privacy. Without asking Harper stepped directly up to Peter and unbuttoned his jacket. Holding the jacket open Harper looked Peter over briefly with a critical eye. Neal was surprised by the way Harper had suddenly invaded Peter's personal space, he wouldn't have blamed Peter if he'd jerked back away from Harper but he held still as though it was perfectly normal to be inspected.

"Are you sure he's healthy?" Harper asked as he reached out and pulled on Peter's cinched belt.

"It's been at least two years, maybe more since he's been fitted."

"I can see the wear in the fabric, but still this is a lot of weight loss."

"His previous owner was…less than ideal." Neal explained evasively.

"That's a shame. I don't understand owning something expensive if you're not going to take care of it." Harper tisked in a conversational tone. "Well, at least he's in better hands with you. I'll leave a little extra room the cut, they'll be a little loose, but they will still fit a lot better than what he has now and you can get him to a better weight without having to replace everything too soon."

"Thank you."

"With his height I'd suggest a three button style." Harper noted as he turned his attention back to Peter. "Are you thinking all plain or some in pinstriping? And do you want more of them to be light or dark?"

Peter didn't answer and it took Neal a moment to realize it was because the question hadn't been directed at him. Completely uninvolved in the conversation Peter was standing motionless keeping his eyes down cast. The stance reminded Neal sharply of Peter's first day with him standing by the patio doors staring at the floor while Neal had been trying to learn about Animula through the internet rather than just asking the one that was ten feet away from him. At the time Neal had assumed he was just behaving normally, knowing now that it had been an act and that he had been in pain at the time Neal hated seeing him zoning out again for the sake of appearing more 'Animula'.

"Mr. Halden?" Harper asked when Neal didn't answer.

"A mix of plain and pin is fine, but more dark than light options." Neal guessed Peter's preferences.

"Single or double breasted?"

"Single." Neal replied feeling awkward answering questions Peter was perfectly capable of answering himself.

"Very good." Harper nodded.

Having an idea of what Neal wanted Harper fished his tape measure out of his pocket and walked over to small dais that he had clients step up on for fittings. Peter followed Harper and stepped up on the dais and stood in the center. Harper tugged on the lapel of Peter's jacket, taking the cue as a sign to remove the garment Peter did so. Taking the jacket Harper pointed to the tie and Peter took that off as well and offered it to him before being instructed to remove his dress shirt as well. He was wearing an undershirt with a tank top under that to ensure his nearly healed wounds remained hidden. Neal stood back watching Harper and Peter not even realizing that he was holding his breath until his lungs started to burn.

Taking the articles of clothes Harper placed them on a near by mahogany work table carefully. Stepping back up to Peter he caught sight of the long list of Masters tattooed under Peter's arm and furrowed his brow. Neal's heart raced and although Peter had already been anxious he looked close to passing out now. It was the first time anyone other than Taylor had seen Neal's forged code. Harper circled Peter like a shark once, his eyes falling on the collar burn that was showing above the undershirt collar. Peter brought his eyes up sharply when Harper reached up and brushed against the scar. Neal went to step forward but that motion only caused Peter to tense further.

Unsure of how best to help Neal just stayed where he was. He could see Peter visibly trying to force himself to stay calm, however his quickened breath and the slight quiver of his hands betrayed his mounting anxiety. Neal expected Harper to notice as well, but he didn't. Without making a comment about the scar or the list of owners Harper just started in taking measurements and noting them down on a pad that was laying on the work table. Harper may have an opinion about the apparently disobedient life Peter had lead, but if he did was keeping it to himself. Nick Halden was after all a regular customer and now that he had an Animula he would be bringing in even more business Harper wasn't going to risk Nick taking his business elsewhere by insulting the quality of his living acquisition. Neal allowed himself to relax to try and help Peter do the same. Rather than properly relaxing Peter just turned in on himself as his eyes lost focus again.

Trying to act like the whole scene was normal Neal wandered over to one of the leather chairs set up for people to wait in. Harper had always been detail oriented and today was no exception as he triple checked each measurement. Standing still except when Harper pulled on him to lift his arm Peter looked like he was mentally a thousand miles away, although he looked more comfortable than he had been when Harper started. Neal cringed as Harper pulled the measuring tape across Peter's shoulders. Peter had assured him that he could handle the contact before Neal had made this appointment and to his credit he didn't even blink. Although Neal knew from experience just how well Peter could hide pain.

Working quickly and professionally Harper finished taking Peter's upper measurements. Switching the tape to one hand Harper reached up and pressed his fingers into Peter's ribs. Neal jumped up as Peter suddenly went down on knees. Without thinking Neal rushed up to the dais and offered his hands to Peter to help him back up on his feet. Peter just stared up at him terror for a second before shaking his head slightly. Not seeing the subtle cue Neal didn't step back.

"Are you okay?" Neal asked concerned.

"Yes, Master, I'm fine." Peter assured quickly.

"He was just doing what I asked him to." Harper added.

"Asked?"

"The Market didn't show you his pressure point?" Harper asked surprised.

"What?" Neal asked more in horror than a desire for clarification.

"Animula have reflexes that can be used to guide their motions."

Demonstrating what he meant Harper reached down and hooked two fingers under Peter's jaw. Peter responded by getting to his feet making it look as thought Harper was effortlessly lifting him up. Once again just using his finger tips Harper pressed against the front of Peter's left shoulder causing him to take a few steps back, switching to the right side made Peter step forward. Harper pulled his hand away and Peter stopped dead in his tracks. Tapping on his shoulder instead of pressing against it resulted in Peter turning around in a full circle away from the point of contact, Harper touched his left side to get him repeat the motion but turning in the opposite direction.

Peter's interpretations of the physical cues were so instantaneous and fluid that he and Harper could just as easily be partners in a well choreographed dance instead of the sickening display of dominance that was actually occurring. Harper smiled warmly at Peter's quick responsiveness the way a trainer would take pride in a well performing dog, enjoying the control.

"Then there are the three different kneeling positions." Harper remarked conversationally as he continued his demonstration.

Before Neal could stop him Harper dug his fingers into Peter's ribs again instantly dropping him back to his knees. Harper put his hand on top of Peter's shoulder and he sat back on his heels. Neal felt like he was watching a glass about to fall of a table, in as much as he knew he should reach out and stop it his reaction time to the disaster just wasn't cooperating. Harper tugged on Peter's shoulder, only this time Peter hesitated making Harper repeat the motion. Closing his eyes in defeat Peter put his hands out as he leaned forward to comply.

Realizing Peter was about to bend all the way to the floor at Harper's request Neal finally snapped out of his trance. He pushed Harper's hand away and pressed his own palm against Peter's shoulder to stop him. Neal had no doubt that far from coming naturally that the physical cues had been trained into him by force at the Market to further dehumanize him. Peter didn't look up at him, but he did relax slightly under Neal's hand to show he appreciated being saved from further humiliation.

"Enough." Neal snarled at Harper icily.

"I...I'm sorry." Harper apologized automatically, surprised by Neal's tone. "I was just trying to be helpful."

"Why do you even need him on his knees in the first place?" Neal demanded.

"It's part of taking measurements for an Animula," Harper explained "I have to make sure everything is cut right so that he can kneel comfortably without placing any undo stress on any seams. Is there a problem?"

Neal took a breath to reply angrily to Harper's callous treatment however he stopped himself when he felt the tension snap back across Peter's shoulders under his hand. Peter risked bring his head up to flash Neal a quick pleading look to let him know he was just making things harder for him by causing a scene and endangering them both. Neal had known this was going to be difficult, but he was still surprised by how angry it made him to see Peter following orders. Harper was looking at Neal with a mixture of confusion and suspicion. He obviously didn't want to upset one of his best customers, but he also seemed to know a good deal about Animula and possibility had ties to the Market. If Harper felt something was wrong he could easily check into Peter and discover their secret.

"Mr. Halden?" Harper asked. "Is something wrong?"

"No. I'm sorry, I just don't like other people giving him orders. It undermines my authority with him."

"I understand. You need to be the one in control." Harper nodded. "He's had a lot of owners, and you did mention you got a good deal on him, there is probably a good reason for that. Have you considered a collar for him?"

"No."

"I'd highly suggest one. It wouldn't hurt to have one on him, even if you don't use it very often."

Neal had to bite his tongue to keep from acerbically correcting Harper on exactly how much a collar would hurt both literately and emotionally. The thought that people honestly believe the Market when they said that Animula couldn't feel pain boiled Neal's blood after what he'd seen. Even now Peter was starting to breath heavier just having Harper suggest the cruel device. The fact that Harper didn't even notice the effect the conversation was having on Peter was indicative of how deeply the problem with human perception of Animula ran.

"I'll order one for you, no charge. I have a friend who works at the Market."

"No." Neal said firmly. "We are just fine without it."

"Are you sure?"

"I am. He knows his place with me. Isn't that right, Peter?"

"Yes, Master."