Barbara had always been the head of the household. She spanked her husband on their wedding night. Benjamin had done nothing wrong. His wife made sure he understood who ruled the roost.

Unlike other men in the neighborhood, Benjamin never spent evening in a bar or pub. Barbara counted every penny. He dared not waste money on beer.

Benjamin worked hard. He was content. Life was good under his wife’s authority.

On payday, he presented Barbara with his paycheck when he came home. One week the check was smaller by a few dollars. When asked, Benjamin admitted that he had been docked for arriving late.

He offered no excuse for tardiness. His wife grew wrathful. Laziness was unforgivable. He might as well toss money into a sewer.

She grabbed a heavy cane. It was always ready in the corner to correct a disobedient husband. Tonight she would teach him to never again be late for anything.

Her husband screamed at the first blow. He continued to scream as hard wood cut repeatedly into his buttocks. He begged for mercy. His vocal cords grew raw, hoarse. He could only moan and weep.

Barbara gave Benjamin a long, violent whipping. He would never forget this night.

Now he is always early to work. This earned him a raise.

His wife’s cane was always ready in the corner. Often glimpsing it, he shudders and puts forth renewed effort and eagerness into his many chores.