Unfinished Business Part 5

Ingrid hung up the phone and ran upstairs. Her mind was racing with the thought of going to a dance with Thomas. She looked at her watch and realized she only had twenty minutes before Emily was supposed to come and pick her up, so she had to get a move on.

Ingrid washed her face with foaming cleanser, took care of bathroom issues, then neatened up her make-up. She grabbed her coat and was ready to go when Emily arrived. Emily was of course ten minutes late, so she kicked herself for rushing so much.

“Hey Chicky.” Ingrid said, getting into Emily's car. “How was last night?”

Emily was smiling ear to ear. “We had a REALLY good time.” She said as she put the car in drive.

“Slut.” Ingrid said grinning.

Emily laughed and smacked her on the leg. “None of that from you missy.” Emm said.

Ingrid giggled then lit a cigarette.

“How was your night, then?” Emily said.

“Good. We went back to the house and had a drink.” Ingrid said, then took a drag from her cigarette. “Nothing else happened. Well, we kissed a little, but that's it.”

Emily shook her head. “You kill me, Ingrid.”

Ingrid raised an eyebrow at her. “What?”

“You have only been...well, you have only been a girl for a little while and you have already gone on dates with one of the cutest guys in school and you have a college senior on a string. If you weren't my best friend...I'd be jealous.” Emily said, then laughed.

Ingrid thought about it for a second. It was true. She had been very lucky with guys since she'd decided to become Ingrid. “I'll take that as a compliment, Emm.” she said, “And guess what...”

Emily glanced at her for a second, taking her eyes off the road. 'What?”

“Thomas asked me to go to a formal with him.” Ingrid said, grinning ear to ear.

“No way!” Emily said. “That is awesome!”

They pulled into the parking lot of the diner, still chatting as they walked up to the door. Emily walked in first, followed by Ingrid. There were several empty tables so they took one furthest from the door. The girls drank coffee, smoked cigarettes and laughed a lot. Finally they ate some dinner. Ingrid looked down at her watch. “Hey Emm...I need you to run me by my house. I gotta pick up my car, then I've got Krav Maga tonight.” she said, putting her stuff back in her purse.

“Kay.” Emily said, grabbing her purse off the bench. “Let’s motor.”

Ingrid really had to rush when she got home. It was already after six, so she was going to have to really jam if she was going to make it to class on time. She jumped in the shower and cleaned up, then washed her face and took off her make-up. She dried her hair with a towel, then ran into the bedroom and put on her workout clothes. Well, Richard's workout clothes. Ingrid ran into the bathroom and took out her contacts, then put on Richard's glasses. Richard, stared back at her from the mirror. She took a deep breath, then adjusted her posture and tried to slip back into the Richard identity. It was tight, but Richard made it to class on time.

Krav Maga is a great martial art. It isn't all about flashy moves, or sport fighting. It is down and dirty fighting. Period. The classes are very tough, especially when you've reached Richard's level. He was having a little trouble tonight, though. He hadn't been practicing in his free time very much, and it was showing. Not showing to anyone else, but definitely to him. His body was already getting sore and it was much harder to do some of the moves. He would have to remedy that by spending a little more time on the heavy bag at home.

After class, his instructor, Bob Jenkins called him over. “Hey Rich...Can I talk to you for a sec?” he asked, gesturing for Richardto come into his office.

“Sure.” Richard said, following him in. Richard was exhausted, so he plopped down into the chair. His forearms and shins were all beat up from sparring, and his cheeks were killing him where he'd taken a couple of pretty solid punches from a really big guy. “What's up, Mr. Jenkins?”

“Rich....I wanted to ask you something. It seems like you've been going through a lot of changes recently. Is there anything I need to know?” he asked, leaning forward in his chair.

Richard froze. Shit, he thought, he's noticed something different. “Ummm...Like what?” Richard asked, hoping that it was something else he was noticing.

Mr. Jenkins was silent for a minute, like he was gathering his thoughts. “I don't want to offend you, Rich...But...Well...You are looking..” he stopped. Regrouped his thoughts. “Well, you have a little bit of eye make-up on. I can't help but notice that you are...well...Your chest seems to be growing a little bit. I'm not judging you or anything...I just need you to be straight with me. Is there something I need to know?”

Richard was mortified. He hadn't noticed his chest, and certainly thought he got off the eye make-up. “Ok.” Richard said. His cover was blown. “I was going to tell you anyway.” he said, “I'm a...” he had to force the words out. He'd never said it to anyone other than his closest friends and his therapist. “I'm a transsexual. I'm transitioning to be a woman. I was trying to hide it for now, but you would have found out soon enough anyway.” Richard said.

Jenkins was quiet for a second. “Ok.” he said. “That clears a lot up. OK. ”, he said.

“Ummm...Are we good?” Richard asked.

Bob said. “ I was just trying to figure out if I was imagining it. So, this isn't common knowledge, I take it?” He said.
Richard shook his head. “No. Not yet. Some people know. But a lot of people don’t know it's me when I'm dressed as Ingrid.” Richard said. He realized that he had let his voice slip up higher into Ingrid's voice and that his speech pattern had returned to its normal, feminine style.

“Ingrid. That's your girl’s name?” Bob said.

Ingrid nodded. She realized that since she'd dropped her cover that it was her talking now, not the Richard identity. “Yes.” she said sheepishly. “So what does this mean for my classes here?”

Bob leaned back. “That depends. It's really no one’s business, actually, like I said. I'll be blunt though. Everyone figured you were gay anyway, so it's not a stretch to think that you are going to be a girl. I know, the two aren't really related, but I don't think it will change anyone's reactions to you. If they had trouble with you as a gay boy, they'll have trouble with you as a woman. I myself don't care either way. You are a good kid and a good student.” Bob said. He smiled. “Even if you haven't been practicing much recently.”

Ingrid laughed. “I'm sorry. I've been very busy.” she said, shaking her head. 'I realized tonight that I needed more practice, because I am really hurting right now.”

Bob laughed. “Ok. Then you've punished yourself. No need for me to do anything. Do you want to be called Ingrid in class from now on?” he asked, toying with an envelope on his desk.

Ingrid thought about it for a second. “Umm...Not yet. I am still in school. I am going to be getting my GED soon, then heading out to college at Georgetown. I'm going to be Ingrid full time then. I wanted to talk to you about that anyway, you just beat me to the punch.” she said, then smiled. “As usual.”

Bob laughed. “Georgetown, huh?” he said. “So will you want to start coming to my Sunday night class at the studio closer to the school?”

She nodded. “Yes. I would like that. If it would be ok, Ingrid will be attending there. Not Richard. I'm getting my name legally changed as soon as school is out.”

“Sounds good to me.” He stood up. “Then Richard will be on time for class and will not wear make-up to class. You should also get something to bind your chest. I would suggest getting a sports bra. I don't want you getting hurt from a punch there either, that was my main concern.”

Ingrid nodded. “Thanks Mr. Jenkins.” she said.

“Now, get. I need to lock up and get home. Be careful.” he said.

“Bye. See you next Saturday.” she said.

When Ingrid got home, Fred and Janet were sitting in the living room watching the news. They looked up and smiled at her as she walked in, dropped her bag, and collapsed onto the couch with a wince.

“Tough class?” Fred said with a chuckle.

Ingrid nodded. “Yes.” she said, forcing a grin. “I feel like I got hit by a truck. How was your party?”

Janet piped up. “It was fun, I guess. I drank a little too much so I'm exhausted. Fred did a number on the buffet table so he hasn't moved since we got home.” she said, poking him in the belly. Fred batted her hand and chuckled.

“Yeah...I tied one on. That stuff was good.” he said, grinning at Ingrid. “Oh, yeah...How was your morning with Red?” he asked.

Ingrid perked up. “Great. I had a fantastic time.” she said.

“Good.” Janet said. “I'm so glad he was able to take you out for a late Christmas present.”

Ingrid grinned. “I also wanted to talk to y'all about something important...Before I go upstairs and pass out.” she said.

“Shoot.” Fred said, hitting mute on the remote.

“Well, two things actually. First, Uncle Red talked to me for a long time about my future. School. Career. He put a lot in perspective for me. He also made me an offer. He told me that he would help me get into the company and that he wanted me to be on his team.”

Fred didn't look surprised, but Aunt Janet did. “His team.” She said flatly. “Is this the same team that sends him off to all the corners of the globe doing who knows what?”

Ingrid nodded. Janet didn't sound too happy about it.

“That's dangerous, Ingrid. Are you sure you've thought about this?” She said, sounding very worried, they type of worry that can only come from many sleepless nights spent waiting for a dreaded phone call that thankfully never came.

Ingrid shrugged. “Life is dangerous, Aunt Janet. The idea really appeals to me.” she said.

“So, what's your plan Ingrid?” Fred said.

“I'm going to get my GED.” Ingrid said. She could see a look of mild relief wash over Fred. “He told me he'd looked into it and that it wouldn't be a problem for me to get into Georgetown, even with a GED, based on my situation and my GPA.” she said.

They both nodded. “Ok. When do you want to do it?” Fred asked.

“As soon as possible. I've heard the test is really super easy.” she said. She'd read about it online a while back and couldn't believe how simple it all sounded.

“Well, you are a very smart girl.” Janet said smiling. It sounded really good, her calling Ingrid a girl so naturally.

“I'd like to go ahead and do it quickly, then get my name legally changed so I can enroll in Georgetown as Ingrid.” she said, wincing as she adjusted on the couch.

Janet nodded. “I've already drawn up all the papers and started getting everything together. It shouldn't take very long to make it happen. I will talk with the judge once I get the case on the docket and find out who's on the case. It should be easy enough. Then we get you a new driver's license, get your social security card changed and you'll be good. There will be some legal stuff on the back end, transferring all your documents but I'll take care of that free of charge.” Aunt Janet said.

Ingrid laughed. “Thanks, I didn't want to have to worry about your bill.”

“You said there was a second thing.” Uncle Fred said.

“Oh yeah...Thomas asked me to a formal at GW.” she said, grinning.

“Thomas. The College boy who works at the bookstore?” Fred said.

“Yes.” She said.

“Are you sure that's a good idea. He doesn't know your true status. It could be ugly if he finds out.” Fred said. “I don’t want you getting hurt.”

She smiled. “He's a gentleman. No worries there.” she said.

“We will have to go shopping for a dress.” Janet said, grinning.

“I know.” Ingrid said, then the two of them got into a ten minute conversation about dresses and what she was going to wear.

“I'm exhausted.” Ingrid said finally. “I'm going up to hit the sack.”

She walked over and gave each of them a kiss then headed upstairs. Within minutes, she was dead to the world.

Sunday blurred by. Richard talked at length with Fred and Janet about what they were going to do, and finally, late in the afternoon, they had hammered out a plan. Aunt Janet took him to school on Monday and they sat down with his guidance counselor, Ms. Willis. Ms. Willis was a very nice woman, who genuinely cared about all the boys under her care. She knew all about Richard's case and had been very sympathetic. She also knew that Richard had been accepted to Georgetown as well as several other schools.

“Good morning, Mrs. Blake.” Ms. Willis said as they sat down. “Would you like some coffee.”

“I'd love some.” Janet said, setting her purse in her lap. Richard sat down next to her, very nervous. They were going to come clean with Ms. Willis. She was going to be instrumental in getting his records transferred, as well as getting letters of recommendation written for Ingrid. Not Richard.

“I would too, if that's ok.” Richard said quietly.

“Sure.” Ms. Willis said. “Then would you mind getting them?”

“Sure.” Richard said, then got up and fixed two cups of coffee. The mug he chose said 'worlds greatest grandma'. He thought that was funny. He handed a cup to Janet, one cream, two sugars. His was black.

“Ms. Willis. There is something important we needed to talk to you about this morning. I'm going to be very frank with you, and I hope that you understand the discretion required with our situation.” She said.

“Certainly. What's wrong?” Ms. Willis said, sounding very concerned.

“You know about Richard's situation, so that makes at least part of this easier.” Janet said. She turned to Richard and smiled, then took his hand. He squeezed it like he was holding on for dear life. “Richard's unique situation has given rise to some other issues.” Janet said, then took a drink of coffee.

Ms. Willis looked very distraught. “Is it a medical condition?” she asked.

“Yes. In a way.” Janet said. She steeled herself and took a deep breath. “Richard has been diagnosed with GID. Gender Identity Disorder. The effects were compounded by the loss of male sexual organs, but his condition was most probably pre-existing. The effects of his...maiming, just exacerbated the problem.”

Ms. Willis looked shocked. She had known Richard was a very effeminate boy, everyone had, but she thought he would grow out of it. “I've heard of that. In school, I mean. I have a masters in Psychology, but I’ve never dealt with it with a student. That is going to cause a problem, Ms. Blake. This is an all boys school.” She said apologetically.

'We know. That's why I'm pulling Richard out of school. He is going to get his GED. With his GPA, he should still have no problem getting into Georgetown, especially with the mitigating circumstances.” Janet said.

Ms. Willis nodded. “Yes. I can see that. I'm so sorry you won't be able to finish school with us, Richard.” she said, sounding truly saddened by the fact.

'”It's ok, Ms. Willis. It's very hard for me here anyway.” he said.

She looked at him and nodded. “I'm sure it is, honey.” she said. “Ok, what do you need from me?” She asked.

Janet went over everything and gave her the paperwork required for the letters of recommendation for Georgetown. It took less than an hour to get everything done.

“We will miss you Richard. You are such a bright child. I hope everything at Georgetown goes well for you.” she said.

“Thank you ma’am.” Richard said.

Janet and Ms. Willis shook hands, then Richard went by his locker and got the rest of his books. They turned them in at the office then with a box full of junk out of his locker, he left the school for the last time. As they were leaving, class was letting out. He was walking with his Aunt down the halls as the boys poured out of the classrooms. He saw Bradley leaving his first period class. Their eyes met for a second. He could see Bradley was very curious as to what he was doing here with his Aunt. Bradley excused himself from Mark then walked up to Richard.

“Hi...Rich.” he said. “What's going on?” he said, gesturing to the box.

“I'm leaving school.” he said quietly. It was very hard not to fall into Ingrid's mannerisms when talking to Bradley. “I can't do this anymore.” he said.

Bradley looked worried. He looked at Janet, then back to Richard. “But, what about college?” he asked.

“I'm starting in the fall. I'm getting my GED. It's ok.” he said.

“I’m...glad for you, Richard.” he said. “I know it's been hard here for you.”

“Thanks.” Richard said. “For everything.”

Janet watched the exchange between the two boys, then touched Richard on the arm. Richard seemed startled by her touch. “We need to get going. We have to get to my office.” she said. “Good to see you, Bradley.”

“Bye.” Richard said. He could feel tears welling up in his eyes as he walked into the cold sunlight.

“You ok?” Janet asked, handing him a tissue. He took it, then dabbed at his eyes the way you would if you were wearing make-up.

“Yeah.” He said quietly. The tears wouldn't stop.

“Something you want to tell me?” She asked as they pulled out of the parking lot.

“ He...He's the only person other than you guys and Emm who knows my secret.”

Janet looked surprised. “Bradley knows?” She asked. “How did you know he wouldn't tell anyone? I mean, that was really dangerous, Ingrid.” She said, accidentally addressing Richard as Ingrid.

“No. Not with him.” she said.

“Why not?” She asked incredulously.

“Because he loves me.” Ingrid said. Richard realized that it was Ingrid’s voice. She had come out during the conversation.

“How do you know?” Janet asked, sounding a little angry.

“Because...We made love. He was my first....” Ingrid said, then burst into tears.

Janet was silent. She didn't know what to say really. She looked angry, and concerned at the same time. She was also completely dumbfounded.

Ingrid sobbed. She threw the tortoise shell glasses on the seat and cried into her hands. Janet pulled the car over into a parking lot and did the only thing she could think of, which was to pull Ingrid to her and let her cry on her shoulder. She remembered being a teenage girl. She remembered first love. She remembered being seventeen and giving up her virginity. She also remembered all the pain that went along with it. Janet stroked Ingrid’s hair and kissed her on the cheek. Soon the tears subsided. Janet waited a few minutes for her to calm down.

“Ok.” Janet said. “We won't talk about this right now. Lets get you home and let you change out of those clothes and get more comfortable.”

Richard went upstairs and threw the clothes into the hamper. He jumped in the shower and let the water run over his head until he had washed the Richard identity away, slipping back into his real self as Ingrid. She affixed the breast forms and put on her panties and bra. Ingrid dressed in a Prada shirt dress and leggings and topped it off with her black boots, then selected her jewelry. She was going for really girly and accessories to make herself feel better.

She did her make up, nothing too extreme, just eye make-up and lipstick, then fixed her hair. She had gotten pretty good at spiking up her pixie cut. I really need to get highlights in this, she thought as she fiddled with her bangs.

She loaded all her stuff from her boys wallet to her Prada wallet and shoved it all in her purse. She bopped down the stairs to find Aunt Janet drinking a cup of coffee at the table and talking on her cell phone.

“It’s a client. I won't be long.” Janet said.

Ingrid nodded then grabbed a cup of coffee for herself. She went out on the back porch and to the gazebo. She didn't care if Aunt Janet didn't like it, she really needed a cigarette. She lit one of the Virginia Slims 120s and sat down on the bench. She did love Bradley, she realized. He was her first love. A doomed romance to be sure, but she still loved him. Thomas, she wasn't sure about. She liked him a lot, but didn't think she loved him. She did lust for him. but that wasn't the same thing. She enjoyed his company and they had a lot of fun together. Maybe something else would come of it, maybe not.

Ingrid finished her cigarette an went inside. Janet was hanging up the phone. “You smell like an ashtray, Ingrid.” Janet said, sounding perturbed.

“Ok...Be right back.” Ingrid said. She rushed upstairs and put on a touch of perfume then headed back down.

“Better. But I can still smell it.” Janet said with all the bitterness of an ex-smoker who secretly missed it, so they took it out on everyone else.

“Sorry” Ingrid said, grabbing her purse.

They went up to Janet's office. There was a ton of paperwork required to get your name changed, but Janet had already done most of it. While Ingrid filled out paperwork, Janet was on the phone getting the case scheduled.

“OK. I got a case number and found out who the judge will be. This should be a no notice change, since you are a minor and Fred and I are your guardians. This also falls into the 'health and well being category' so we shouldn't have to post notice and wait. IF I can get the judge to sign off on it, it's just a matter of paperwork.” she said. “I know you are bored. Come back here by lunch so we can go eat.” Janet said, shooing Ingrid off.

Ingrid was relieved. She kissed Janet on the cheek and headed out. She walked across the parking lot to a shopping center. She was walking on clouds, she realized. She was officially going to be Ingrid Wolfe very soon. Richard would be a memory.

Ingrid lit a cigarette then walked along the sidewalk, window shopping. She was wearing her big sunglasses and her puffer coat, since it was very sunny but still quite cold. After she finished her cigarettes she went into the Kohls and did a little shopping. She found a cute pair of earrings and a bracelet that she just had to have. Then she stopped by a bookstore with a little coffee shop, bought a magazine and some coffee and sat down to kill time until Janet was ready for lunch.

At ten til eleven, She got up and headed back to Janet's office. Janet was still on the phone, though she assumed it was not the same call. Janet smiled at her and hung up the phone. “Alright. Good news. That was actually quite easy. I'd already gotten all the forms filled out. The ones you signed earlier. I have an affidavit from your doctor and notarized copies of all the forms Fred and I have to sign. I talked to the judge and she is willing to sign the order. We are going to run by her office and get it signed. Then...” Janet smiled. “You will officially be Ingrid Allison Wolfe.”

Ingrid grinned at her then gave her a big hug. “Thank you!” Ingrid said, overjoyed. “Lets go!”

“Ok...Lunch first.” Janet said. The two of them went to a nice little place for lunch. Ingrid had a chef's salad, while Janet went for the tuna. It was nice and the two of them talked a lot about what they had to do. Ingrid listened with rapt attention to every word. Name change. Driver's license. GED test. Appointment with the college counselor to explain to them the name change and her status.

“It's all happening pretty fast.” Ingrid said. “Not that I'm complaining, but I thought this stuff would take a while.”

“Well..I'm a lawyer. I have connections. That makes it a lot easier. I've known Gloria since before she became a judge. She knew your mother too. Your father served on her election committee a few years ago. It's all who you know, dear.” Janet said.

By one o’clock that afternoon, Richard Wolfe was officially history. Ingrid looked at the documents and felt like she was going to cry. It was probably the happiest moment of her life. That moment was then spoiled by the wait at the DMV to get a new license. She was glad she had glammed up for today, since this was going to be on her drivers license. Ingrid neatened up her make-up and thought it looked really good. Finally they were at the counter.

“Miss. You have a mistake on your paperwork. You marked male.” The surly attendant said.

“No. It's right.” she said. “This is a legal name change from Richard to Ingrid.”

The attendant looked at her, then compared the documents. He looked disgusted. “Ok, sir. This way.” he said. Ingrid was irritated at his attitude, but wasn't going to let it ruin her good day. She answered the questions, then had her picture taken. Half an hour later she was holding a new driver’s license in her hand. The picture was pretty good too. The attendant didn't even say good bye as she rushed out to her Aunt. Ingrid showed her the picture and smiled proudly.
“Now I don’t have to be scared to show my ID anymore!” Ingrid said, giggling.

“That is a good picture. You are so photogenic, Ingrid.” Janet said.

That night, Fred and Janet took Ingrid out for a celebrator dinner. It was interrupted half way though by an important call for Fred, but both of them were used to that happening.

The rest of the week blurred by. Ingrid and Janet did a lot of paperwork, sending stuff off all over the place. Ingrid had to sign papers for the house and all her estate stuff, which was about as fun as watching paint dry. Friday finally came. She was scheduled to take her GED that afternoon and was determined to take them all in one day.. She dressed comfortably, in a baby tee and jeans and drove herself to the testing center. The test was way easier than she thought it would be and she blazed through it.

That night, Ingrid had to rush home to get ready for her date with Thomas. Ingrid looked through her closet and decided on a her favorite black Prada mini-dress over tights with her Prada tall boots. She fluffed her hair up, spiking the top, then put on her make-up. Ingrid decided to go with a very 1960's mod look, with extreme cat eyes and false eyelashes, topped off with a very pale pink lipstick. A pair of really big silver hoops and some bangles finished off the outfit. She put on her Chanel cat's eye glasses and posed in the mirror. She thought she looked really good, like she'd just stepped out of a magazine ad. The thought made her grin as she shoved everything into her purse.

Thomas was at there to pick her up at seven o'clock on the dot. Very punctual. Uncle Fred answered the door. Ingrid got down stairs just in time to see Fred leading a very nervous, and very cute looking Thomas into the living room. Thomas was wearing a pair a very nice black suit with a definite '60s cut, a white shirt, and a thin black tie. His normally unruly hair was nicely combed, and his face was shaved to a very sexy five o'clock shadow. He looked like a character from reservoir Dogs. Ingrid liked it a lot.

“Hi, Thomas.” she said, putting on the Ingrid accent. “You look very nice.”

He could hardly take his eyes off her. He actually sort of shook his head before he spoke. “You look fantastic, Ingrid.” he said.

“So...” Fred started. “I expect my niece home by midnight, Thomas.” he said firmly.

“Certainly, Mr. Blake.” Thomas said. “No problem.”

“Good. Ingrid. You look lovely.” Fred said, “Be good.”

Ingrid grinned and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Aunt Janet came in and Fred introduced her to Thomas. They chatted for a minute, then Thomas took Ingrid's arm and led her out to his truck. He opened her door for her and waited for her to get inside.

He jumped in his side and started the truck. He looked over at her and grinned. 'You really do look fantastic, Ingrid. “ he said, smiling.

They pulled out and headed out to the restaurant. Ingrid pulled a cigarette out of her purse and lit it, taking a long, languorous drag before snap inhaling. She noticed Thomas was watching her, so she turned to him and smiled before exhaling. “Thanks for asking me out, Thomas.” she purred.

“You are welcome. I hope you don't mind, but my friend Jeff and his girlfriend Shelly are meeting us at the restaurant. I couldn't get out of it...it sort of just became a double date.” he said apologetically.

Ingrid shrugged, then smiled. “Your friend Jeff is quite nice, if I remember correctly. It is no problem.” she said.

They arrived at the restaurant. It was a little Pac Rim place called, originally enough “PAC RIM”. The decor was nice, lots of pale wood and Japanese influence. Jeff and Shelly were waiting for them in the bar when they arrived.

Jeff stood up when they walked in and gestured for them to come over. Thomas and Jeff shook hands.

“Jeff. You remember Ingrid.” he said. Ingrid stepped forward and took Jeff's hand.

“Jeff. Nice to see you again.” Ingrid said, playing up her German accent a little bit.

“Nice to see you too. Ingrid, this is Shelly.” he said, introducing his date. She stood up and extended a hand, which Ingrid shook.

“Hi Ingrid, nice to meet you.” She said.

“Charmed.” Ingrid said with a smile.

They had a table in the bar area so they all sat down. Ingrid sat across from Shelly, the guys across from each other. They all chatted for a little while as they looked at the menu. Ingrid noticed Shelly was giving her some odd looks and it made her uncomfortable.

Shelly was a cute girl, with long blonde hair. She sort of looked like a cheerleader, or a sorority girl, which she probably was. She was dressed nicely, but far more casually than Ingrid. Ingrid smiled at her and she returned the smile, but it was a tight obviously fake smile.

“...Ingrid is a model.” She heard Jeff say. Ingrid looked up, her eyes wide. She saw Shelly had a similar expression. Ingrid just smiled, not wanting to correct him here.

“You are?” Shelly said.

Ingrid wasn't sure what to say. Then, she just decided to go with it and play the cover. She looked at Thomas and smiled, then back to Shelly.

“Yes. I am model.” she said, playing up the accent even more. She could see Thomas grinning out of the corner of her eye.

“Wow. Like a runway model?” She said.

“Yes.” Ingrid said. She pulled her cigarettes out of her purse and set the pack and her lighter on the table. “I have worn Prada, Chanel, and Tadishi.” she said, not really lying since she actually had worn clothes from all those designers on more than one occaision. She was now starting to enjoy playing the Ingrid persona to the hilt.

Shelly smiled at her. “I thought you looked like a model. Your clothes are very pretty, and the way they hang on you...it's just like the models in the magazines.” she said.

“Danke.” Ingrid said. “Mind if I smoke?” she said, holding up a cigarette. Everyone shook their head and Thomas produced his zippor and lit her cigarette. This opened the floodgate and Thomas and Shelly were soon producing cigarettes of their own. Jeff was the only one at the table who didn't smoke, but he didn't mind.

“Jeff...You should see Ingrid's car, man.” Thomas said.

“I saw it. Mercedes SUV, black one right?” he said.

Thomas shook his head. “No. Her car, not her truck. She's got a 1955 Mercedes Benz sport coupe.” he said.

“No way.” Jeff said. “I love that car. Never seen one in person, but remember that model you used to have, Thomas?” he said, definitely impressed. “That's awesome. Why don't you drive it?” he asked.

Ingrid shrugged. “I don't drive it in the winter. The weather is too hard on my baby.” she purred. “I will drive it in the spring time.”

She now realized why Shelly was looking at her that way. She was jealous. She knew that girls sometimes treated other girls they were jealous of coldly. Like they couldn't contain the irritation at no longer being the center of attention, and that was exactly the look Shelly had on her face right then. Shelly was a pretty girl and probably normally was the hot one in a group. Being the “other girl” was pissing her off. Ingrid decided that maybe she could talk to her and get her to loosen up a bit.

“So, do you go to GW, Shelley?” Ingrid asked.

“Yeah. I'm a Junior. How bout you?” Shelly asked.

“I am not currently in school. I am going to be starting in the fall at Georgetown. I will be sophomore.” Ingrid lied.

The waiter showed up and took drink orders. Ingrid just ordered a water, while everyone else ordered beers. Everyone was carded, so she didn't dare try to order an alcoholic beverage.

“You don't drink?” Shelly asked.

Ingrid ignored the little smirk and the tone of her voice. “No. Not right now. I am under contract and my size cannot change. So, no drinks for me.” she said, smiling.

Thomas looked at her, then smiled. “Yeah. Ingrid normally just drinks coffee and looks at food.”

Ingrid hit him on the arm. That was almost true. She laid her head on his shoulder for a second. “That is not true Thomas. I ate a cracker last week.” she said, then winked at him.

The dinner was good. Ingrid ate some sashimi tuna and a tiny bit of some rice. She really dug into the edamame, which was awesome. She finished eating first and ordered a cup of coffee, which made Thomas giggle. She poked him in the side for his trouble.

Ingrid didn't say much for the rest of the meal, instead she just listened and let everyone else talk. After dinner, they all said their goodbyes and Thomas led her out to the truck.

“Thanks for putting up with that.” Thomas said as he started the car. “She wasn't being very nice.”

Ingrid shrugged. “It is ok, Thomas.” she said, going back to the slight German accent she now favored as Ingrid. “I made the best of it.” she grinned at him.

“Yeah, That was cool. I like the exaggerated accent. It was cute.” He said as they pulled out into traffic. “So. Would you tell me the truth, Ingrid?” he asked.

Ingrid was mortified. Oh, no, what does he want to know. Which secret does he want me to reveal? She thought. “What?” She said.

“Are you really a model?” He said. Sounding very serious.

She felt so relieved. “No, Thomas. I am not a model. My mother was, though.” She said.

“Really? Well, you got her looks. You could be a model you know, like if you needed a job to work through college.” He said.

“I am flattered.” She said. “Thank you Thomas.”

They went to a movie and saw a very cute romantic comedy. Thomas put his arm around her and she felt very small up against him. Thomas was an attractive guy. She had been trying to figure out who she thought he looked like, but it had been escaping her. She finally realized that he looked quite a bit like James Marsden, the guy who played Corny Collins in the new version of Hairspray. It was the suit and the actually brushed hair that made her think of that. He looked over at her and noticed she was looking at him instead of watching the movie. She looked back to the screen. He reached over and put his finger under her chin, gently turning it towards his face. He leaned over and kissed her. It was a very sweet kiss that made Ingrid feel butterflies in her stomach.

“Thank you for a very good time, Thomas.” Ingrid said. They were parked a couple of blocks from Uncle Fred and Aunt Janet's house while Ingrid finished her last cigarette of the night.

“You are very welcome.” he said, smiling at her. “I'm glad you are going with me to the dance, Ingrid. I'm not much of a dancer, though.” he said.

“I'm not either.” Ingrid said with a giggle. “So we will be a pair. Seriously, though, what color dress should I wear?”

Thomas shrugged. “It's a formal. I was going to wear a classic, black tux.” he said.
Ingrid smiled. “So, it's a real formal?”

“Bonafide formal, yes indeedy.” He said with a laugh.

“That is great. I have many great dresses that I have not been able to wear.” she said, sounding very excited. “I will wear something very nice. Would you like me to wear something not to attract attention?” She said.

Thomas laughed so hard he was almost crying.

“What?” Ingrid said, slightly offended.

“No...” He wiped at a tear. “...Don't be offended. But, Ingrid. You can't help but attract attention. You are gorgeous. So, if you don't mind. Flaunt it. Make me look good in front of my frat brothers.” he said.

Ingrid felt better about that, but she could feel herself blushing. “Ok. Then I know the perfect, dress. I saw it at Nieman Marcus the other day” she said.

“Sounds perfect.” Thomas said, then leaned in and gave her a kiss. She kissed him back and felt like she was melting under the heat from his kiss.

Thomas walked her to the door like a perfect gentleman. He gave her a little kiss on the lips. She liked kissing him when they were standing up because he was so tall that even in her three inch heeled boots, she had to stand on her tip toes to kiss him. It made her feel tiny, even though with those heels she was five foot eleven.

“Good night, Thomas.” She whispered.

“Good night, Ingrid.” Thomas said.

Ingrid went into the house, looking back over her shoulder at Thomas and smiling before closing the door.

Ingrid woke up late Saturday morning. She rolled over and looked at her clock and was surprised that it was already after ten. She stretched and got out of bed, heading straight for the bathroom. She put on her robe and headed down the stairs to get a cup of coffee. Aunt Janet was sitting at the dining room table reading the paper when she walked in. Ingrid gave her a little smile, then poured herself a cup.

“Mornin’, sleepy head.” Aunt Janet said, peering at Ingrid over the top of her glasses. “Thought you were never going to get up.'

Ingrid laughed and sat down. “I didn't set my alarm.” she said, then blew on her coffee.

“Fred had to run some errands this morning, so I've been all by my lonesome. It's been nice.” she said, grinning. “what are you up to this afternoon?”

Ingrid yawned. “Well...I'm going to get dressed, then I'm going to run out and get a manicure. After that, I'm going to Nieman Marcus to shop for a dress for that formal.” she said. Ingrid took a sip of her coffee. “Ummm. Good coffee, Aunt Janet.”

Janet smiled. “I know. I love the new stuff Margarite has been buying. So....” Janet said. “...how was the date with Thomas?”

Ingrid smiled. “Good. We had fun. We went to Pac Rim, then we saw a movie. It was really fun.”

“Good. That Thomas is cute. He's too old for you, but he's very attractive. And apparently smart, since he's pre-law.” Janet said.

Ingrid blushed. “Yeah, he's very cute. and very smart.” Ingrid said. “And not too old for me. Last time I checked, Fred is eight years older than you...” Ingrid said with a smirk.

“That's different. We got married much older.” Janet said defensively.

“Ok. I'll be the pot, you can be the kettle.” Ingrid said, then laughed. Aunt Janet tried to put on an angry face, but couldn't manage it and started laughing too.

“Touche'” Aunt Janet said. “Now go get dressed before you waste half the day.”

Ingrid laughed then went upstairs and took a shower.

Ingrid put on a black Milly ruffle sleeved sweater and a pair of black D&G wool, narrow leg pants. Shoes were a much harder proposition, but she finally decided on a pair of Prada slingbacks. Ingrid went with simple make-up, just a eyeliner, mascara, and lip gloss, not too much for an afternoon shopping. She clasped on her silver Rolex, grabbed her purse and was out the door. Ingrid held her head high as she strutted across the parking lot of Tyson's Galleria.

Just before she got inside the mall, her phone rang. Ingrid glanced at the screen and saw it was Emily. “Hi, Emm.” Ingrid said. Ingrid walked over and leaned against one of the columns outside the entry way. “What's up?”

“Nothin’ girlfriend.” Emily said. “How was your date with Thomas?”

Ingrid smiled. She was rooting around in her bag for her cigarettes. “It was really nice. We had a great time. Did you go out with Mark last night?” Ingrid found her cigarettes, pulled one out then searched for her lighter.

“I did. We played pool.” Emily said. “Where are you?”

“I'm at the Galleria. I'm shopping for a dress and getting a manicure. Want to join me for lunch?” Ingrid said.

“It's a date. See you at noon. I'll call you when I get there.” Emily said. “Ciao.”

“Ciao Bella.” Ingrid said, then hung up the phone. She still hadn't found her lighter. It had migrated to the lowest part of her purse, of course.

“Need a light?” She heard some one say. A male voice. Ingrid looked up and saw Bradley standing there. She swallowed hard.

“Yes. Thank you.” Ingrid said, smiling at him. She put the cigarette to her lips while he lit it for her. She inhaled deeply, hoping the nicotine would settle her now frazzled nerves.

“You look great, Ingrid.” Bradley said. “How've you been?”

Ingrid nodded. “Good. I've been good. How are you?” It was very awkward. Despite all the fun she'd been having with Thomas, she wanted very badly to kiss Bradley right then and there.

“I'm glad.” he said. Bradley sounded a little bit sad, actually. “So...You are out of school now, huh?” Bradley said.

“Yes. I took my GED on Friday.” Ingrid said proudly. “Should get my results back soon, so I can get enrolled in Georgetown.”

Bradley nodded. “Awesome.” he said. “That's great. Are you still seeing that college guy?”

Ingrid smiled and nodded. “Thomas. Yes. I am going to a formal with him later this month.”

Bradley tried to keep from showing his displeasure at that by smiling. “Good. Good to hear. Sheila and I are still together.” he said.

“I'm glad.” Ingrid said. She wasn't, but she was better at hiding her emotions. Ingrid took a last drag from her cigarette. She noticed how Bradley's gaze was locked on her mouth as she snap inhaled. She couldnt' help but sexy it up a little, tilting her head back and forming her mouth into a perfect bow as she exhaled. She took a step over and put the cigarette out in the ashtray. Bradley still hadn't spoken.
“Well..I have a manicure appointment, honey. IT was great seeing you.” She said, then gave him a hug. He was very tense at first, then hugged her tightly.

“Bye, Ingrid. It was great seeing you.” he said. It hurt her how sad he sounded.

“Bye.” Ingrid said, then rushed inside. The clack of her heels seemed very loud to her as she walked towards the nail salon. Almost as loud as the beating of her heart.

Ingrid had just finished having her nails done, manicure, extensions, and paint, when Emily called. They met up in the food court a few minutes later and had lunch. After they ate, Ingrid and Emily went to Nieman Marcus to shop. Ingrid knew what she was looking for so she quickly zoomed in on the dresses she was interested in. She had it narrowed down to three dresses, which she had to try on. The last dress she put on, a plum colored, Strapless, organza ruffled gown by Marchesa Couture. It was the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen, she thought, as she looked at herself in the mirror. She walked out of the dressing room with the biggest smile ever on her face. Emily actually stood up out of her chair and gasped.

“That is gorgeous!” Emily said, grinning.

“I know. It's perfect.” Ingrid said, smoothing it out.

The sales woman was smiling broadly at her. “That is lovely, Ms. Wolfe.” She said nodding. “It suits you perfectly. And we do have alterations, so you can get it fitted.”

Ingrid spun around, letting the skirts rise a little with the motion. “Good.” she said. “It is a little loose in the waist.” She said, putting her hands on her hips and looking in the mirror.

Emily stood behind her, then looked at the tag. Emily's eyes looked like they were going to bug out of her head. “Ingrid.” she hissed. “This dress is like, $6800 dollars!”

Ingrid shrugged. “Yes. Isn't it wonderful!” Ingrid said, feeling like Cinderella getting ready for the ball. “I need matching gloves and shoes, don't you think?” Ingrid said.

“You are literally going to spend that on this dress?” Emily said, incredulously.

“Sure. It's fantastic.” Ingrid said, grinning at her.

Emily just shook her head. “It does look great on you. I just can't see spending that kind of money. Can't we just look at one of the formal shops...” Emily said.

Ingrid's look cut her off. “I've never been to a formal, Emm. I want it to be perfect. I don't want some kind of knock-off.” She said.

Emily grimaced. “Ok. It's just a lot of money.”

“Pish, Posh. Ingrid said, flouncing the dress a little. “This dress is worth it.”

Ingrid had the sales woman take the dress to have it sent down to alterations for her. Ingrid found a pair of matching gloves and a pair of Christian Louboutin patent leather peep toe pumps with a four inch heel.

“These shoes are great, and they are on sale. Only $700 dollars.” Ingrid said, admiring her shoe in the mirror.

Emily just shook her head. 'You are fashion crazy, Ingrid.”

“I know. I know.” Ingrid said. “At least I come by it honestly.”

Emily laughed. The girls walked down to Alterations, where Ingrid had the dress fitted. It didn't take very long, and soon they were walking out of the store. Ingrid was carrying her bag with the shoes and gloves in it. Emily looked down.

“You ok?” Ingrid said, looking over at Emily.

“Yeah. I”m fine.” Emily said. She shrugged. “I wish I had money to buy all the cool clothes I wanted, that's all. I'm so jealous.”

Ingrid frowned. “I'm sorry, Emm.” she said, not sure what to say. “I didn't mean to make you unhappy...I just wanted your opinion on my dress.”

Emily shook her head. “I”m not unhappy....I”m jealous. Not the same thing.” Emily said with a smirk. “No, it's cool. You have a lot more money than me, and I'm ok with that. Usually, I see the cool clothes you have and it doesn't occur to me that your outfits usually cost as much as my car.” Emily said.

Ingrid laughed. It was true. Emily's car was not a showpiece. “I'm sorry, hon. Well, most of my stuff was my mom's. And, I buy most of my clothes from selling off my father's old clothes. The money is somewhat finite, I guess.” Ingrid said.

“Yeah, but you can just sell more of the 'last season' stuff to get more money later.” Emily said.

Ingrid smiled. “True.” She said. “I did have something I wanted to tell you, though. Speaking of clothes.

“What?” Emm said, as they were walking out the mall front doors.

“Well, there are several items I have in my closet that don't fit me. I wanted to see if you wanted them.” Ingrid said.

“Why don't they fit?” Emm asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I don't have much for hips, honey. You do. I have some clothes that are really cute, but they don't work for me because I just don't fill them out right. My mother had bigger hips than me, and things that are cut to accentuate them just don't work. Want to come by and try them on...Before I sell them to sate my clothes fetish?”

Emily laughed. “Of course I do, silly.”

They drove back to Ingrid's house and spent the rest of the afternoon playing in the closet. Emily went home with five dress, two pairs of pants, and at Ingrid's insistence, a pair of shoes. Emily looked happy as could be as she got into her car to head home. Ingrid waved to her from the front porch as she headed out.

The rest of the month dragged by. With no school, Ingrid found herself terribly bored. After lounging around the house for a week, Aunt Janet issued an ultimatum...”Get out and do something, other than shop, or I will find something for you to do.” That was enough for Ingrid.

She realized that she had been spending too little time on Krav Maga, and physical training in general, so that became her outlet for the next two weeks. She ran, worked out at the studio, and even signed up for a Pilates class at the gym. She was quite pleased that she was even able to (mostly) keep to her no more than two cigarettes a day policy.

Ingrid and Emm hung out a lot, when Emm had the time, just talking and drinking coffee, or watching a movie. Emm's relationship with Mark was going very well, they were seeing each other exclusively now, going steady or whatever. Ingrid wished her and Thomas had more time together, but with his work schedule and school his time was limited. Ingrid went to see him at the bookstore a couple of times, and they managed to go out and have dinner once, she was a little bit jealous of the time Mark and Emm got to spend together.

The morning of the formal, Ingrid was worn out after a long session of Pilates as she emerged into the cold, January sunlight. She snuggled into her puffer coat, the black yoga pants and sweatshirt she wore were definitely not winter wear. She slung her bag over her shoulder and headed towards her car, grimacing against the cold wind. She pulled her keys out of her purse and lost her grip on the bag. Its whole contents tumbled out onto the pavement.

“Scheisse!!” she said, a little louder than she intended, then stooped to start gathering her stuff.

“Let me help you with that.” A familiar voice said over her shoulder. The shadow fell across her and she looked up into the face of Ryan Baker, a guy Richard went to school with, and one of Bradley's good friends.

“Danke. I mean, thank you.” Ingrid said, falling into the German accent naturally. “I'm so klutzy sometimes.” Ingrid said nervously.
“Its ok.” he said, handing her the last couple of things. Ingrid was very worried that he might somehow recognize her as Richard, since she wasn't wearing any make-up. Hopefully, the big sunglasses would help shield her identity. He looked at her, then smiled. “Hey...You're Ingrid, right?”

Ingrid swallowed hard, then smiled. “Yes. I'm Ingrid. You are?” She said, standing up and slinging her purse over her shoulder.
“Oh, sorry. I'm Ryan. Ryan Baker.” HE said, holding out his hand.

Ingrid took his hand and gave it a little squeeze. “Nice to meet you, Ryan.” She said, then rummaged in her purse and pulled out her cigarettes. She lit it then smiled at him, hoping he wouldn't twig on to her identity.

“Yeah...I saw you at Wilson's party. I didn't actually get introduced to you, but you made quite an impression with the guys from school. I didn't know you lived around here.” He said, stumbling with the words a little, like he was nervous.

Ingrid's unease dissipated. He wasn't on to her, he was hot for her. “Oh,” Ingrid said, laughing. “Yes, I did see you at the party. My boyfriend and I just came for a little while, but I think I remember seeing you there.” She gave him a big smile, and he seemed to blush.

“Cool. umm, boyfriend huh? The big tall guy you were with?” HE said sheepishly.

“Yes, Thomas. He is Senior at GW.” She smiled, then took a drag from her cigarette.

“A senior.” he sounded kind of deflated when he realized she was dating a 21 or 22 year old man. “Well, I'll tell Brad I ran into you.”

Ingrid smiled. “Thank you for helping me.” she said, then gave him a peck on the cheek. He turned bright red, which made her smile widen. She couldn't help but chuckle.

He was still standing there, with a sort of dumb look on his face as she climbed into her truck and pulled out of the parking lot.

She looked down at her watch. Six hours until my first formal, she thought. Just the thought of it actually made her giddy. She was going to a formal with her boyfriend. He mental train skidded to a halt. Boyfriend. She'd said it before, but that was sort of a cover, a way to get out of having to talk to Ryan very long. But she'd thought it then, unbidden it had come to her. Naturally. The thought was strange, actually. She'd had an intense couple of months. All the stuff that had happened with Brad, the crush, the weekend, everything. But that was not meant to be. Then she'd gone to Thomas, because he'd always been so sweet to her. HE was the first person Ingrid had met, and was very special to her. Her feelings for him weren't the boy-crush, first love swooning she felt for Brad, but a tender friendship that she'd never felt with any other boy.

“Boyfriend.” She said aloud, then shook her head. She looked in the mirror. I hope I'm not setting myself up for a fall, she thought, as she turned into her driveway.