Alex dressed for the Senior Prom

Alex’s parents finally come to terms with the physical condition their child suffered.
While Alex discovers she really is a girl.

Revised and edited. Rights reserved by author. Permission granted to Big Closet.

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~o~O~o~

Alex hesitated to bring the medical issue to her mother. She feared mother would somehow go along with father. Alex believed her mother fully subscribed to the teaching that wives are subservient to their husbands. She was afraid expecting that any minute she would have a period and die. Suddenly Alex discovered being a girl was no picnic. She decided to wait until the weekend hoping to enjoy her date with Brian.

Come seven p.m. Friday Brian waltzed up to the front door. He knocked as Alex ran down the stairs flying to open it. She did not get completely out the door before Norman intercepted her. “Are you in a hurry?” He asked with an odd expression. “Alex do you really need that long raincoat? You remind me of a pervert on a television show.”

Alex said “I thought it was going to rain.” Don’t be silly,” Norman says when Gladys appears at the door. Brian is beginning to get nervous. Gladys sends Norman back to his T.V. program. “I will handle it.” Norman grumbled something as he walked away. It sounded like, “kids today are insane.”

Gladys stood in the doorway saying, “Alex honey give me the rain coat.” Alex sheepishly removed the coat handing it to her mother.” Mom’s eyes opened wide as she saw her daughter dressed in a denim skirt. It was not too short and matched the cream colored blouse she wore. Gladys handed the girl a sweater. “I will leave the rain coat right here. Have a good time. Brian, take care of her.” It was Gladys’ way of saying behave yourself and Brian understood. He took Alex’s hand and walked down the street.

It may or may not have been a good movie the kids will never know. Alex turned to whisper something to Brian when he kissed her. His hand slipped onto her knee where it stayed. It may not have been the longest kiss in history but it did last until the end of the movie. They walked home hand in hand and at her front porch they kissed good night again. Alex went inside to face her mother.

Gladys turned to face Alex with a look of concern. “What is it dear? You look troubled, really troubled.” Mrs. Winslow drew closer sensing the seriousness of her daughter’s countenance.

Alex draws a breath speaking slowly. “I need you to meet me at Dr. Bradley’s office Monday after school.” Gladys steps back turning away from Alex toward the living room. “I need to speak to your father.”

“No mother you can’t do that unless you want to cause my death.”

Gladys stops in her tracks she turns with a horrified expression. “Don’t be so dramatic you make it sound like life and death. Your father would never hurt you.”

Alex frowns, “mother he already has and if you care at all about me you will see Dr. Bradley. Or I will surely die. It is that serious.”

Gladys, stunned at Alex’s dramatic statement blurts, “you are serious about this aren’t you?” Alex replies with a certainty “I have never been more so mother. If I do not get the proper treatment and soon, I will die it is that certain. Will you meet with Doctor Bradley or not?” Gladys nods her agreement as she sits mouthing a silent prayer. The weekend sped by rather quietly until Sunday evening.

Mr. Winslow had learned about the incident on the bluff and insisted on going to the school meeting. The Sunday evening special school board meeting was short. In spite of conservative outrage the offenders received three days suspension. Winning football games once again won priority. Especially when you have a rare championship caliber team. The players continued to get scholarship offers from major universities. The girls noticed their scholarship offers were being withdrawn.

“Obviously shaking your ass is less important than throwing a football and besides groupies are easy to find.” The Winslow's heard Jen's loud comment as her family left the meeting. Her father was seen slapping her. To which she replied, “yes dad it is ok for the guys to act like sluts but let one of us.” Before she could finish, her mother was seen dragging her toward the car.”

When the family arrived home Norman grumbled about unacceptable behavior in parking lot. Gladys was a little bit upset about this and commented about it. Norman cautioned her saying “the Bible has strong opinions about wanton women. There is harsh punishment for whoring.”

Alex went ballistic asking her father, “just how big of a hypocrite are you?”

Her father blinked blindsided by the outburst. Alex reinforced her argument by not backing down. “A Christian would be the first to forgive. Your church should offer scholarships to the girls. What a wonderful opportunity that would provide. You'd teach them the forgiveness of the Lord.”

Stunned, by Alex's unexpected comments, father paused unable to answer. Gladys almost burst out laughing. She had to leave the room to gather her control. Norman looked at Alex, “son that is a loving attitude the Lord would be proud.” Alex widened his eyes as his father's response surprised him. He expected another lecture.

“Ah then you will do it?” Asked Alex as father walked out of the room without answering.
Mother's fading laughter filtered into the room from the kitchen.

Alex’s cell rang she answered surprised that Jen was calling. She wondered what Jen could possibly want. Jen spoke with concern in her voice. “Alex did you hear about the school meeting?” Alex answers cautiously uncertain about her response. “Yes, it was a typical double standard. I hear you had a hard time in the parking lot.”

Jen answers, “I figured you and everyone as well. Look Alex, I know we are not friends but I also know you tell it straight. Was I wrong?” Alex pauses, “wrong about what? Were you wrong about the double standard, hell no.”

Jen tells Alex, “I got grounded. Dad did not like it that I called the star football player a slut.”

Alex laughs. “You said that?”

Jen tells Alex about the confrontation. “I got grounded for two weeks. I want to know do you guys see me as a slut because I dated that guy and now date another player?”

Alex thought about it searching for an answer. She considered if she thought Jen a slut, shrugged and replied, “no. You are a popular girl, very pretty and most girls are envious of you. Yeah some will call you names. Reagan, Kathy and I have no reason to think of you that way. We may think you are a bitch sometimes but that’s normal.”

Jen laughs, “what about the guys what do they say?”

Alex blinks hearing that question. “I am not sure. I have not heard any of them talk about you but you know how Brian got his fat lip don’t you?”

Jen laughs, “No but I am dying to find out.”

Alex tells Jen. “Scott was talking about a girl he was dating. Scott called her a skank because she put out. He then insinuated all girls are skanks and Brian might get lucky with me. It gives you the idea of how these guys think. Some of them have no regard for girls.”

The girl talking to Alex responds, “really those bastards really do that?”

Alex confirms Jen's question. She questioned to herself if the Queen really did not know that? “I bet every one of those guys give blow by blow descriptions to their buds.”

Jen, thinks ‘blow by blow, does Alex know I went down on Jake and Pete?’ “You did not hear any stories about me like that did you?”

Alex answers, “no but then again I am not a jock. Be careful Jen, they will use, abuse and brag about it.” Jen thanks Alex and cuts off. Alex puzzled wonders, ‘did I just create another ice princess? Dad would be proud of my doing the Lord’s work.’

At the Monday lunch session Brian showed a greater smile than usual. His lip mostly healed almost looked normal as he sat down at their usual table. He noticed that lately he has been getting more than a passing glance from several girls. Kathy leaned forward drawing her slender finger along Brian’s lip. “You are looking better babe.”

Another girl from the next table watched with interest. Reagan leaned over whispering something causing the boy to blush. Alex sat back as her friends worked the boy over. She commented “Bri have you noticed your rating changed to major hunk according to the babe patrol?” Brian blinks, “what?”

Reagan laughs, “it is girl rule number one Brian. It does not matter how much of a geek a guy is. When a high class chick notices him his status rises.”

“Yeah, Bri you have it all over Jake.” Kathy added teasingly. “Now that Alex has you snared they wonder how did such a handsome piece of manly flesh escape us? They all want in now.”

Alex says in a sultry voice, “didn’t you wonder why chicks flocked to Jake and not you? When we all know you are much better than the girls thought.”

Brian is in full blush mode his face reddening to match the color of his lips. “Come on girls you are getting carried away.” Brian defends himself. Alex grins as she kisses his ear.

Brian turns quickly handing the girl a gold heart on a matching chain. “I found this someplace it has your name on it. Did you lose it?” Alex looks at the heart inscribed ‘To Alex from Brian.’ Beaming the girl puts it on while her friends become giddy fawning over it.

Brian's eyes sparkle as he gazes at Alex. “You need to be more careful with expensive items like that.” His smile broadens. “It is my way of saying thank you for trading projects.”

Alex shakes her head. “I had nothing to do with that. I need to know what size you are." Brian blinks asking, “why do you need to know?”

Alex twists her fingers in her hair devilishly. “Uh I just wondered because the skirt I made has an elastic waist band instead of zipper and button. I thought you could wear the skirt and I'd wear the pants you made.”

Brian balks retelling the girls he drew a skirt in the Home Economic Olympics while Alex got a pair of slacks.

Reagan offered, “that was sweet of you Alex.” Alex shakes her head. “I had no choice the old biddy made me do it. It gets worse; I have to wear it to class. So what is your size Brian? You wear the skirt I’ll wear the slacks.”

The boy’s face reddened as he shakes his head yelling, “no way. The pants would be way too long for you. I did not do a diligent effort to perfect the length so you could wear them rolled up.” He thought his comeback was good.

The two girls did not back up their friend turning on her. They both said in unison, “oh no Alex you’re wearing the skirt. We never see you enfemme.”

“How is the project going guys?” Kathy asks.

Brian sheepishly confesses. “I am behind. Basketball practice has been more demanding than I thought.”

Erin Wright from another table calls over, “I will help if you need.” Brian glances to Alex and she nods whispering, “ok with me. I trust you.”

Kathy and Reagan call Alex nuts. Brian is unsure if she meant it. The boy said, “Thank you Erin but I have to do it myself, the rules you know.”

All three girls in unison say, “good answer.”

Brian blinks, “do you guys share the same brain?”

Alex says, “now you know girl rule number two. Boy friend will not accept help from pretty chicks.”

The bell rings for class with Brian saying “I just learned the first two girl rules. How good is that?”

Kathy quips, “yeah but you just blew it big time. You just had a chance to get into Alex’s skirt.”

Reagan added, “a chance like that may not come again.” Brian blushes as he escapes down the hall. Regan and Kathy tell Alex, “you got a keeper.”

As they walk down the hall Alex is beginning to perspire and she suddenly grabs her stomach bending over and moaning. Kathy holds her asking, “cramps?” Alex nods hearing Reagan whisper, “monthly visitor?”

Alex suddenly panics and grabs Reagan's arm. “walk me to the nurse’s office?” Without waiting for an answer she nearly screams to Kathy. “Call Dr. Bradley, tell her emergency, cramps and to call the nurses office. Talk to her she will know.”

Kathy, panicked punches the numbers into her cell.

Gladys Winslow drives rapidly toward the hospital after receiving the call from school. She tried several times to reach her husband Norman whose cell was out of contact with the tower. She left a panicked message advising him to meet her at the hospital. No it was not her she was fine it was Alex. No she did not know beyond the school nurse saying cramps, fever and passing out. She could only hear the words, 911, hospital, and Dr. Bradley.

She pulled into hospital parking lot then ran into the building trying to get someone to listen. She questioned every staff member she found until one directed to a waiting room. Over the next Several hours, though it was only minutes in real time, she determined there were twenty-four rows of ceiling tiles. She also felt the painting of a girl fishing was not very good. A nurse appeared leading her to a conference room. Still no answers she waited for Dr. Bradley’s assistant.

Miley Summers spoke with a soft concerned voice. Mrs. Winslow regarded the young woman as a mere girl. Tall and thin she appeared with golden hair. She had green eyes and slim build. She could have been a college student. Gladys worried about this young girl ‘is the one who holds my child’s life?’ The woman turns to face the Doctor.

“Mrs. Winslow, I am Dr. Summers Dr. Bradley’s assistant. Alex is in surgery we expect all will go well as the response was rapid. Alex knew exactly what to do and her friend Katherine Wyatt called Dr. Bradley quickly.”

Gladys narrowed her gaze with concern showing. “Surgery? My God what happened? My husband opposes any surgery.”

Dr. Summers with a quizzical expression said to the fraught woman. “It does not matter what your husband opposes. When a life is in danger and surgery is the only method to save a life the state authorizes the hospital to act in emergencies. Do you know what your daughter’s condition is?” The doctor asked surprised to hear the woman’s reaction.

Gladys knows that Alex is presenting as girl and the community sees him as a girl. He is still a boy down there. She changed his diapers and she knows what she brought into this world. Her response was normal considering the doctors had to find his male appendage. She responded in a rational way so she thought, “my daughter? You mean my son. I know only that my son Alex is in the hospital and you are operating.”

Miley Summers widens her eyes, “your son? Mrs. Winslow, your son is suffering from internal bleeding caused by a menstrual discharge. A growth blocks the evacuation of the flow. If the menstrual flow cannot evacuate her body, she will die. I know of no way this can occur in a male. I know you are upset please sit down everything is under control. Can we get you something to drink, coffee or tea?”

The woman nearly falls into a sitting position in the straight plastic chair. Gladys tried to gather her thoughts. ‘Alex said Dr. Bradley wanted to discuss her findings with both of us. What could she possibly have discovered? Alex was playing at being a girl. He was taking advantage of his odd chest growth. Are they trying to tell me that with his body producing these strange symptoms, it is really turning him into a girl? I thought by playing along with his joke he would realize the implications of his ruse and the danger he put himself in.’ She nods to the young doctor. “I am sorry I am very concerned and very confused. Can I speak with Dr. Bradley?”

Dr. Summers admits she never met her partner’s patient and is not familiar with the case. She knew that Karen said it was very strange. Being pragmatic she simply said “I am sorry but it is Dr. Bradley who is performing the surgery. She is with your daughter now. Dr. Bradley will be in soon and give you a full briefing.”

Gladys paced back and forth reviewing all that had passed these past few months. She pictured Alex in her mind seeing the pretty, no beautiful girl she was. She recalled telling Alex that she believed her. Gladys, now torn fraught with the friction between denial and reality she came to terms. ‘Alex was a girl all along?’

At that moment Norman burst into the room highly agitated. Before he could even speak Gladys said, “Norman, sit down shut up and I will explain.” She turned to Dr. Summers with a smile, “thank you. I will talk with my husband.”

The Doctor smiled with a hushed voice, “thank you and Alex is in excellent hands.” With that she stepped outside. Miley Summers was even more convinced this child’s mother was a basket case.

Norman was ready to burst but Gladys could settle him down for the moment. “It will be ok.” She said with a quiet confidence. The Lord’s will is being done.”

Norman began his outrage with his usual refrain. “The Lord would not approve.”

Mrs. Winslow’s response was sudden, loud and certain. “Shut up If you cause any more problems Alex and I will leave you. I am fed up with your inability to listen to reason. You almost killed your daughter and I refuse to allow you to prevent the treatment she needs.”

Norman shocked, by his wife’s sudden command can only whisper. “I did nothing to Jami. The girl left because she could not accept the Lord.”

Gladys shakes her head. “I am talking about Alex.” Stunned, Norman widens his eyes and sits back with an incredulous gaze.

Alex’s mother says to her husband, “you will listen to Dr. Bradley and keep your mouth shut. Alex and I had a talk just yesterday and her, yes I said her insight may help you.”

Norman blinks as his wife continues, “suppose as a result of your praying the Lord answered but you did not hear?”

Mr. Winslow now puzzled listened intently. “Norman suppose just suppose the Lord gave Dr. Bradley the intellect and tools to save your daughter. Would you consider her effort is in fact the Lord’s will?”

Norman widens his eyes as if to consider while his resistance melts. Gladys just gave him the ability to accept science while not turning his back on his life long beliefs.

Mr. Winslow smiles mumbling his speech. “It is the Lord’s way. He provides a miracle without drawing attention to himself.”

Gladys smiles inwardly thinking ‘manipulation is not always evil in fact it can be the Lord’s will.’ She laughed as Norman sat praying.

A confused Dr. Summers met her partner as she exited the operating room. “Karen how did it go?”

Dr. Bradley smiles answering, “very well the girl pulled through quite famously. She will be sore for a few days with some discomfort.”

Miley displays a visage of concern. “I must tell you Karen that woman, the girl’s mother is highly distraught. She insists the girl is her son.”

Karen smiles, “I know it is rather confusing but take my word for it she is normal. I will fill you in at the office tomorrow. Right now I have good news to deliver and a bubble bath waiting.”

A tall strikingly beautiful woman entered the conference room. She was wearing hospital scrubs appearing quite spent. In her hand was a large thin manila envelope. “Mr. and Mrs. Winslow, I presume?” Gladys and Norman smiled a smile described as worn and hopeful. "I am Doctor Karen Bradley, Alex's OBGYN. Alex is fine you can see her shortly. First I must explain to you what happened to the child you thought was your son.”

Norman sat forward in his seat curious not understanding what is going on but he remained silent. His eyes darted from the Doctor to his wife. Listening in silence is a new experience for Norman.

Dr. Bradley placed the contents of the envelope into a tray. A large screen television projected a picture of Alex's internal organs. “This is a view of Alex as taken by the M.R.I. a few days ago.” She looks at Norman. “Do you recognize that?”

Norman’s eyes widen sputtering, “is that?” His eyes expand, he cannot finish. Gladys takes his hand. Karen smiles. “This explains the reason that Alex could not produce enough testosterone to begin male puberty. It also explains the elevated levels of estrogen. The problem was the blockage you see here. By not having an open Vaginal Canal Alex’s system could not evacuate the menstrual fluids. By not passing the fluids Alex would suffer from a resulting chemical poisoning causing death. You see when you refused testosterone treatments it accelerated the advance of female puberty.” Karen takes a deep breath, “don’t hold yourself guilty because of that decision. The treatments would only have prolonged the inevitable. Under these conditions the testis would fail.”

“I nearly killed my son,” Norman blurts and begins to sob. As demonstrated before Doctor Bradley is a master of framing an argument. She leans over touching Norman’s hand.

“Mr. Winslow this is not your fault. Had you allowed, the proposed treatment by Dr. Grant it would only have prolonged the problem making it worse.” She repeated her previous statement determined to ram that point home. “Dr. Grant is an excellent doctor. His suggested treatment was correct. With the female hormones over powering the male production the situation would come to this at some point. The usage of male hormones would have only delayed the onset of female puberty. The opposing hormones are the reason Alex had not developed normally. When his testicles finally succumbed then normal puberty began in earnest. I say normal because Alex has a fully developed female reproductive system. No other outcome was possible.”

Dr. Bradley takes a deep breath. “This is nothing anyone did and it is not the first time this event has taken place. Do you understand?” Both parents nod. Norman appeared especially defeated.

She turns to Gladys handing her a card. This is Katherine’s phone number. Call the girl she saved Alex’s life.” Both parents demonstrate surprise. “Had she not called me the hospital would have delayed treatment by having to take several tests. I already had these results and advised Alex to bring you to see me. Remember Alex was unconscious she could not have told them. Please do not, I repeat do not mention the details. Alex’s friends have always known him as a girl. You don’t want to put your daughter in a hopeless position.” Dr. Bradley concludes. “The nurse will bring you to her room. She can to go home in a couple of days. We need to monitor her and control her first period. Yes, she can have visitors.” As Dr. Bradley turned to leave she turned to Mr. Winslow, “Oh just so you are aware I pray for the Lord’s help before every surgery.”

Shaken, the parents thanked Karen and found themselves at Alex’s bedside.

The girl smiled through the soreness she felt. “Hi you two look like you have been through the war.” She giggles as both parents approach she cautiously says to her father, “are you angry with your new daughter?”

Norman crying rushes to her bed hugging Alex whispering, “angry? I am praising the Lord for giving me a beautiful child. She is a lovely daughter I can be thankful for that.”

Gladys is smiling and crying at the same time. The woman had to dig deep to find the strength to fight for her daughter.

Norman spoke softly to Alex. “We will keep your secrets. You must promise to bring Kathy, Reagan and that special boy to the house. I want to meet the people who love my daughter.”

Dr. Bradley entered the room chasing the parents out. “You can bring her home Thursday but I must speak with my favorite patient.” Norman thanked the doctor and he and his wife went home exhausted but happily relieved.

Karen Bradley spoke for a few moments with Alex. She presented her an informational packet every teen girl should have. She says to her patient “you scared us. I see your parents are accepting the result.”

Alex smiled “yes they are. Much easier than I expected.” she sighed with relief.

Karen turned to the important issue at hand. “Alex am I wrong by guessing you have no idea how to deal with a period?”

Alex blushes, “I am clueless.”

Let me examine you, I will explain step by step. The Doctor when finished asks, “do you understand now?”

Alex frowns shyly, “yes I understand that every month the mess reappears. Just when I thought being a girl was something great.”

Karen laughs, “it will not be every month. It does not occur during pregnancy."

Alex balks “when I’m pregnant? Are you saying I can get pregnant?”

“Yes Alex all of your plumbing is intact and in working order. Young lady welcome to the world of womanhood.” Very gently Dr. Bradley questions “I understand your parents may not accept this but would you like a prescription for birth control?”

Alex shakes her head, “no thank you. I, don’t intend to take this new equipment out for a test ride just yet.”

Karen nods “if you change your mind just ask. I will see you in my office next week. I expect you there after school on Tuesday.”

Alex agrees. “I just want to get out of here.”

At seven a.m., Alex stirred from her sleep as she heard the door to her private room open and close. With her eyes closed she imagined, ‘here comes the vampire to suck more blood.’ She rolled to burry her face into the pillow again thinking, ‘go away.’ A sharp tugging on her shoulder caused the girl to raise, “Go Away!”

A softer pair of voices are heard speaking in hushed tones. “Sssshh do you want us to get thrown out?”

Alex sits up to see Reagan and Kathy. “What are you doing here?”

Reagan smiles. “We needed to know if they fixed your tits. Brian is dying of curiosity.” Alex hits her with the pillow. “It is not my tits.”

Kathy laughs. “We know you got nice tits, a little small but compact and firm.” Alex hits her too. “Seriously girlfriend we were worried are you ok?” Kathy asks.

Alex nods, “just a plumbing problem they needed to open the stopper.”

Reagan blinks as both girls sit on the edge of the bed. “Spill,” they say in unison.

Alex does not want to reveal her whole problem so she tells them the part they can handle. ‘Besides it is true’, she thinks. “I had a blockage that closed my” Alex suddenly paused. She struggled trying to think of a word that escaped her. “Well, you know the part where the curse comes out.”

The girls laugh, “ok we know what a Vaginal Canal is. You are telling us something was stuck in there.” All three laugh this time.

“No silly” Alex says. Reagan laughing as she speaks. “I could not imagine what you could have stuck up there. Next time just ask Brian. He‘d be happy to do that.” By now the three were almost hysterical before Alex gained her composure. “Guys get real I’m still a virgin, nothing got shoved in there. I had a growth that blocked the channel and my flow could not get out. That caused chemical poisoning and me to go into shock.”

Both girls turned white, “like the tampon warnings. I thought that was just covering your ass bull shit” Kathy said.

Reagan answered “I guess it isn’t.” They both kissed Alex. “We will be back after school. See ya.” The girls left for school and Alex laughed until she thought about the changes she faced.

When she finally got home Alex was called into her father’s den. She was wearing a knee length lavender skirt with a white turtle neck. Norman smiled at her. “I never saw how pretty you are princess.”

Alex blinked, ‘princess?’ “What did you want daddy?” Her choice of words was deliberate sort of her revenge for princess. Norman appeared rather subdued as he began to speak. “I must beg for your forgiveness for being so unapproachable.”

The girl considered a moment and easily forgave her father. Though she was angry, about a lot of issues she felt it was time to bury the hatchet.”

“You see my daughter my narrow view of the Lord’s will blinded me to the obvious. You did not know Doctor Bradley and I had a long talk. She convinced me that science and religion are not at odds with each other. It is like the teaching the man to fish story. The Lord is teaching man how to perform miracles every day. You do know not too long ago you would have died because science had not learned enough?”

Alex grins, “do you mean you are not going to resort to saying it is the Lord’s will all the time?”

Norman smiled. “It was the Lord’s will that allowed Dr. Bradley to be successful.” Alex hugged her father thinking ‘he had made some progress.’

That evening Brian, Reagan and Kathy all appeared at the Winslow home. All three friends received the approval of Norman Winslow. Brian was the one who received the deepest inspection. Following a moderate length chat in the living room the kids bounded up to Alex’s room. Their flight was so quick Norman could not get out his reciting of his formal rule.

Seeing only legs bounding up the stairs Norman stands, “No,” Immediately, he is shushed by Gladys “Remember Alex is a girl? The No girl in room rule no longer applies.”

Norman sits considering that simple fact. He whispers to his wife. “I almost made a fool of myself.” He suddenly stands recalling “Brian is a boy.”

Gladys grabs his arm, “sit we can bend the rule this time.”

As they are all gathered around the twelve by twelve bedroom Brian stands awkwardly as he sees Kathy, Reagan and Alex sitting girl style on Alex’s bed. Reagan suddenly clutches Brian’s arm directing him to an empty corner of the bed. Blushing, he sits.

It was then the group saw a large rectangle hanging on Alex’s wall that faces her bed. It was covered by a sheet. The three guests gazed at it curiously.

Brian points to the sheet, “what’s that?”

Alex giggles excitedly, “remove the sheet Bri. You do the honors.”

Brian carefully takes down the sheet. He, Kathy and Reagan gasps as they view a sixteen by twenty-four oil painting of themselves standing in a meadow with Alex. There is a small covered bridge over a tiny stream. On the bridge wall above the entry are three words. They read, Best Friends Forever. The kids exclaim breathlessly a series of odd sounds each in their own voice.

Alex reaches under the bed pulling three long tubes each containing the same painting as seen on the wall. “For you guys, it only took three months to pull off. I don’t want you to feel bad knowing I slaved over this while you guys were having fun. No guilt trip here.”

As Alex began to giggle there was a hog pile on top of her shaking the bed as she was showered by hugs and kisses. She blushed as she felt Brian’s rise down there but for some reason she did not pull away. Alex doubted the poor boy was even aware of what she was feeling.

It was midweek when Alex got ready to go back to school with her skirt project. She had agreed to walk with Brian who had to present himself wearing his home made pants. She was wearing a gray wool skirt modeled after the girl’s school uniform in the Harry Potter movies. To top it off her blouse was a white school girl style with a yellow tie set off with black stripes. Alex said, “I am from the Hufflepuff House.” Her father smiled while mother placed her hands against each cheek.

As she met Brian standing sheepishly wearing his blue suit style slacks she hugged him kissing his cheek. “Not exact but close to Hogwarts garb,” she comments to a smiling Brian as she spins around. The coat opened to reveal her swirling skirt. She was also wearing her gold chain Brian gave her. “I like your pants Brian who made them for you?” She pokes him teasingly.

Alex blinks as Brian suddenly turns wraps his arms around her. He kisses Alex deeply. “You scared me when they took you out on a stretcher I went crazy.” Alex takes his hand. “I’m ok Brian and thank you.”

The girls were merciless over Alex’s skirt teasing her with comments like “I can’t think of a single Hufflepuff girl. You should have tried harder to get into Gryffindor. Help me out here Reagan,” Kathy pleads.

Reagan the ever helpful best friend quips, “Uh Alex Potter? They, can‘t have two Potters in the same house.” They continued until the bell rang. “It is time to see the executioner, come on Bri.” Alex takes his hand.

Brian sheepishly whispers “I should have worn the skirt Alex. I do like your tie.”

Alex giggles. “It is not too late. Are you having second thoughts?”

Brian pulls her toward the girls room laughing. “Sorry but I have to chicken out. I can’t match those legs. Besides my new hunk image would be destroyed.” She mock pokes him as they enter skirt making 101.

Brian and Alex exit the class beaming at the result of the project grades as they both received an A. Though most of the kids did well and no one had created a disaster they were glad this struggle had ended and school was getting out for the Christmas break. They walked hand in hand down the hall lost in each other.

Brian turned to face Alex. He whispered “I love you.” Stunned, the girl squeezed his hand whispering the same to him. They promised for the next three weeks they would spend every moment they could together.

The four, Alex, Brian, Kathy and Reagan walked down Maple Street as usual each falling off as they approached their homes. There was a long kiss in front of Brian’s house before Alex had to run home. She no sooner reached her front door when Kathy called Alex‘s cell. “Are you up for shopping?”

Alex thought a moment. She had not yet caught the shopping gene but she answered in the positive. “Give me thirty to get ready and I will meet you at your place.”

“Mom can I use the car? Kathy and I need to do some serious shopping.”

Gladys laughed agreeing, “be home by six. Oh, your new drivers license arrived, it says girl.”

Alex greedily opened it marveling at her new photo and the female notation. She hugged her mother who told her the lawyer called. “Alex, he also said the other document changes came through with an approval. The new social security card is in the mail.”

Alex hugged her mother shaking all over. “That makes it complete because we got the birth certificate the other day.”

Gladys nods saying, “go, have fun but be home for dinner. Dad is still not used to having a daughter. Have you noticed how strange he has been acting?”

Alex laughs, “yes I hear he wanted Homeland Security to check out Brian.” Gladys regards her daughter with a long stare. “Get out of here he is not that bad.”

The trip to the mall was bountiful as the girls bought several Christmas presents but Alex could not find just the right present for Brian. She tried to get something special but came up empty. “Kathy, I, can’t think of a thing any ideas?”

Kathy giggles. “You could give him your virginity.” Alex pushes Kathy’s shoulder. “Not yet I am nowhere near ready and neither are you.”

Alex drops her jocularity as her tenor turns sober. “You do still have it don’t you?”

Kathy hugs her whispering, “so far but is that a good thing?”

Alex blinks, “yes and you know it. There are only three virgin girls left in that place.”

Kathy sighs. “Remind me again why Reagan and I promised you we would graduate virgins?”

Alex laughs when she sees Debby walking by. “Is that reason enough?” Kathy hugged Alex as they dragged their gatherings to the car.

Jami Winslow was driving east along the interstate toward the small town her parents have moved to. She thought, ‘Valley Heights, how quaint.’ She shrugged as she considered how much better it must be for Alex to have escaped the urban jungle and his tormenters. She recalled the hell she went through and how her complaints were answered by revolting comments. “We will pray together or her favorite, it’s the Lord’s will.” She wanted to scream at her father. “It is the Lord’s will every time a boy grabs the back of my head pushing my face into his nether region?” Jami steeled herself against the expected cold reception. Instead she focused upon seeing Alex. Her brother, the one she often pitied for being so weak. For being so defenseless against the bullies who used him for a battering ram. Then suddenly she laughed as picture of the girl Alex had become appeared. ’She is a babe and those bullies? It is good they moved to East Bumfuck.’

Alex was sitting on the front porch in spite of the cold. She was glad that her father had spent the money to close it in with cedar siding on three sides with a row of windows along the front. Protected from the biting cold outside she sat on the swinging bench wearing her Hogwarts school uniform. ’Jami will love this’ she thought. A horn blew and a compact car pulled into the driveway. Alex watched Jami exit carrying a load of bags juggling more than one on each hip. Alex bounded out rushing to help. The entire load almost ended up in the high snow banks aligning the drive.

“You made it!” Alex exclaims as the predictable hug ensued as Norman and Gladys rushed out the front door to join the reunion. Brian was viewing this happy Hallmark moment as he turned into the sidewalk leading to the front step. His eyes met a surprised Alex. She beamed a radiant smile but she heard Brian say as he turned to go. “You have company.”

He no sooner turned to leave managing but a step before a heavy thump is felt and he and Alex crash into the wall of snow. “No you don’t,” a giggling female voice is heard. Astonished, Jami gazes at her parents while pointing at the two rolling in the snow. “So that is love,” the new arrival says. She giggles then hugs mother before turning to her father. “You look well dad the slower life appears to be good for you.”

Norman smiles, “always quick with an observation Jami. Come here let your old father hug you.” Surprised, Jami stepped into a warm embrace. Gladys stands on the walk watching Alex and Brian wrestle. “Alex it is not lady like to wrestle in a snow bank while wearing a skirt.”

Brian had hit it off with Alex’s father which amazed everyone as Norman was not an accepting person. Gladys thought just perhaps this recent brush with death and the shocking change with their son knocked some sense into him. Whatever the reason she was enjoying a more mellow husband. Perhaps her life was beginning to improve. Now that her other daughter is home for a visit they can be a family again, even if the reunion last no longer than the Christmas holiday. Norman wrestled a promise from Brian to stop by on Christmas day as if the young man would stay away from Alex on a day like that.

On Christmas Eve mother, father, Jami and Alex sat around the tree opening presents. Alex holding a rather light box about ten inches square rattled it trying to determine what was in it. Jami laughing said, “Alex please open the present the card clearly says open on Christmas Eve.”

Alex smiles. “It is from Brian. I wanted to wait until he arrived tomorrow.” Jami holds up the card. “Read what it says. He does not want to be here when you open it. It must be embarrassing.”

Alex blushes, “I will open it in my room.” A chorus of voices in unison chime, “no you won’t! Open it here.” With great apprehension Alex nervously opens the package carefully preserving the paper and ribbon.

Mother watches with raised brows as the old Alex would have torn the package asunder. “You really are a girl.” Everyone laughs including Alex.

Alex stares into the box eyes ablaze with laughter. Her hand covers her mouth, “that devil!” The others watch as Alex removes a pair of blue slacks holding them up. No one gets it.

“Uh,” Jami begins, “what are we missing? It is a pair of slacks. The boyfriend has no idea and got them way too long for you.”

Alex is forced to tell the story of the pattern drawing in class. How the teacher forced Alex to trade her slacks pattern with Brian’s skirt. They all laughed. Then Gladys asked “is this the pair of slacks Brian made?”

Alex nodded slowly when suddenly Jami grabs Alex’s arm. “Girl march up those stairs and remove that skirt then throw it down to me.” Stunned Alex did so with her sister pushing her up the stairs.

A few moments later Jami puts on her coat, looks to her mother saying. “Brian lives two doors up the street. It is the house with yellow trim on the corner right?” Gladys nods as Jamie tucks a package neatly wrapped with the message, ‘To be opened on Christmas Eve.’

Norman’s laughter was rapid as he grabbed his sides. “That boy has no idea of how badly his joke backfired on him. One cannot argue who got the upper hand in this exchange.”

On Christmas day when Norman opened the door he saw Brian standing there. He invited the boy in saying “Alex is in the shower she will be down in a moment.” Norman looked at Brian with an odd gaze. The boy was standing in the door way wearing a mid calf wool coat and ball cap. What caught Norman’s attention was the boy’s legs were bare. ’Why is he wearing shorts in this cold weather?’ Norman thought.

When Brian took off his coat Norman‘s eyes sprung wide. He noticed the boy was not wearing shorts at all. Here stood the high school basketball star wearing the Hufflepuff outfit that Alex had made.

Norman’s laughter rose through the house and as the whole family entered the living room Norman was heard saying “you got guts boy.”

Brian shakes his head “We are missing the point of how tough these women are. They can wear skirts out on a day like this. Didn‘t Mel Gibson wear one in that movie about the Scot? So why can‘t I do it?” Brian spent the afternoon wearing Alex’s skirt. He was not about to back down especially as Alex wore those blue slacks. As Brian was getting ready to leave Gladys suggested “you kids should change.” Brian shook his head “my parents have not seen this and it was a gift. You can turn away a gift.” He hugged Alex leaving to go home. Stunned Alex watched him leave, “call me.” She said. Jamie looks at her mother. “Like I said love is nuts.”

Jami says her goodbyes to Alex sitting next to her sister on her bed. “Alex you are a very pretty girl, please be careful. That guy you have is a keeper. The way he showed up in your skirt demonstrated he has balls. Most guys would have pitched a fit.” She giggles squeezing Alex’s hand, “but you know he has balls.”

Alex not certain how to take Jami‘s teasing, answers quickly, “I know no such thing.” She pauses adding, “well I know what he has but I’ve never seen them.”

Jami smiles, “he, hasn’t pressured you? Really, no hints no suggestion?”

Alex shakes her head. “We talked about it and he told me he loved me and was willing to wait.” Alex giggles. “He told me he was rather afraid of rushing into sex. He wanted to be sure first.”

Jami widens her eyes as she stands then hugs her sister. “Alex, keep him you don’t have any idea of the gem you have.” Alex hugs back whispering, “yes I do.”

Before Jami left, Alex explained the conversation she had with father after the operation. Jami was stunned and she told Alex, “I am glad he has finally come to reason. Perhaps he and I can mend a few fences.”

As Jami pulled out of the driveway Alex’s cell rang it was Brian. “Are you still wearing those slacks?” Alex said she was and Brian told her, “get over here dad wants to see if they look better on you.”

Sometime in the late spring Alex thought about her loss of her old self and the gains she made. After another hour long conversation via cell phone with Jami, she considers how her life changed. Jami and Alex were never close when she lived at home. To be truthful Alex rejoiced when Jami moved to college. The girl marveled at the changes this last year brought. The changes suddenly struck as her hand accidentally regarded her bare knee. She blushed as her gaze into the mirror revealed a girl sitting wearing a gray mini skirt with a cream colored camisole top. Her thoughts turned inward with a clarity she had not considered before. No longer was she the wimpy little brother that popular big sisters disdained. Alex considered this an improvement.

Alex, more conflicted considers new problems these changes caused. She never wanted to be a girl. As a boy he liked girls. The last thing he wanted to do was wear skirts. He only wanted the torment to end. Alex glances into the mirror again and she smiled. ‘The torment certainly ended.’ Now Alex has a new torment several of them to be sure. When he began to grow those breasts he researched the internet to find possible causes. None of the likely answers were comforting. In his research he discovered those internet story sites. The poor kid had no idea so many guys wanted to be girls. To him wearing his sister’s clothes was disgusting. To stroke another boy’s thing was beyond gross. The one thing he could agree on was guys were jerks.

His biggest fear was his tormentors would discover his developing breast. The advent of that had been the cause of many anxious nights. So moving out of that hell hole was a blessing. To top it off the people in this town mistook the doctor’s report and with his appearance they assumed he was female. Alex was disgusted with himself for taking the easy way out. Alex knew as things worked out he got lucky. That does not change his inner conflict.

As Alex’s relationship grew with Brian the conflict also grew. Alex wanted nothing more than to kiss Brian, to hold him, to love him. What kind of thoughts are those to be having about a boy? There was Kathy and Reagan two beautiful girls any guy would love to hold, to kiss, to belong to. So why was Alex content to hang out with them every day discussing makeup, clothes and sexy guy’s asses? Why is it ok to have two best girlfriends forever? Alex loved Kathy and Reagan as sisters and Brian, oh how Alex wanted him in a biblical way. Alex knew for sure this was a path straight to hell.

Alex also knew that before this change sex would be fun. To bed multiple girls would be a challenge and a source for bragging rights. He did not know that because he never experienced it. He also knew that was not in his nature. Now Alex had to worry about these things because she would have to suffer the consequences of being intimate. Alex did not look forward to the responsibility of precautions a girl was forced to consider. She smiled at her next thought. ’With Brian, I could accept motherhood.’

After her operation, the horror of her situation struck with big time confusion. They provided her with no easing into his now her circumstance. Alex was struck at once with the mess there was no warning or waiting period it just struck. The curse or monthly visitor as it is known struck him with all its fury. Alex could not stand the smell and he hated those bulky pads. Alex refused to use one of those silly looking tubes. He figured as a virgin it would break his hymen. How was Alex supposed to know if that were true or not? Just who would he ask that stupid question? Alex figured busting that was to be saved for his husband. ’His husband’ that thought brought another cringe. The idea of some guy sticking that big ugly sweaty thing in there was gross. Alex wondered if those guys who are girl wanna bees have any idea of what their wish brings.

Then there was the whole hygiene issue and special attention to detail. He swore if he missed the slightest particle her new body smelled like tuna fish. The hair required an extra hour every morning to get it just so. Alex wondered why did she insist on growing it out. She knew, of course she knew. It was because of Kathy Reagan and Brian. Their special bonds their love of each other and the trust. ‘Being a girl was a pain in the ass but I love it,’ Alex thought. Most importantly perhaps even more than her relationship with Brian, Reagan and Kathy had given her something she had never known, true loving friendship. She understood that the simple slang expression BFF meant something.

Alex was sparred the conflict suffered by people he read about in those stories. He did not have to ‘come out’ His parents did not have to fight with school boards for transition rights. Alex did not have to run a gauntlet of boy in a skirt torment. His conflict was far different. Publicly it was friction free but privately it was fraught with fear, doubt and resentment. “I don’t want to be a girl” Alex said aloud as he stood before the mirror. Then she thought about Brian and her resistance dissolved.

As Alex got ready for the awards banquet presented by the church to student achievers the excitement grew. She knew Brian would be getting an award for leading their tiny school’s basketball team to the state championship. It was the only championship of any kind that Valley High ever won. Brian has been offered scholarships by several major college powerhouses. He maintained he will accept the school that offers one to Alex as well.

Alex’s conflict with being a girl extended to her refusal to wear skirts to school. Other than the time she wore her project her attire was an assortment of jeans and tee shirts. The problem was the girl loved skirts. She adored the look and the feel and freedom while hating the vulnerability that came with it. She felt guilty being a beautiful girl and the object of those constant stares. She could accept stares when they came from Brian. His stares, his touch and his presence were what she craved.

It was the thought of his gaze and his touch on this late spring evening she found herself rolling a pair of sheer black panty hose up her long feminine curved legs. Her white blouse with its top two buttons opened partially hidden by a pale blue jacket that rested just below the waist of her matching mid thigh skirt. She slipped on her black one inch heels then stood at the mirror. “God, I love being a girl!” She gasped at that outburst adding with a wry smile, “it is the Lord’s will.”

Alex stepped into the auditorium arm in arm with Brian. Brian turned heads with his handsome stature in his well tailored dark blue suit. The adoring gazes from a multitude of female students created a buzz. He was never considered the school hunk that title belonged to Jake. It was Jake the girls wet themselves over. Jen turned to her acolytes in a teasing voice. “How did I ever let that hunk slip out of my clutches?” She giggled. “I never had a chance Alex grabbed him from under my nose.” The other girls smiled while Jen added; “At least Alex is a cool chick.”

Reverend Morgenstern was talking to Norman and Gladys about church issues when he saw Brian and Alex enter. He says to Alex’s parents. “So that, is the school basketball star, Brian Patten. Who is that stunning beauty with him?”

Norman surprised, widens his eyes, “Reverend that is our daughter Alex. Thank you, she is stunning. As her father, I believe that.”

Morgenstern blinks, “I thought Alex was a boy.”

Mrs. Morgenstern turns her head toward her husband, “Clyde that cinches it I am making an appointment with the eye doctor. How could you ever mistake that lovely girl for a boy? Have you not noticed the red headed boy Sean drooling over her week after week?”

The Reverend quips, “that poor Sean never stood a chance.

Brian never one for speaking in public as reserved as he is barely engaged in long conversations surprised everybody when he accepted the church’s top scholarship. “I really don’t deserve this. I was a marginal student headed for trouble until I met Alex. She is the one who earned this award by forcing me to make by best efforts. Thank you Alex.” The crowd cheered as Alex blushed under the gaze of all.

Alex, Kathy and Reagan also won awards. Jen garnered a cheerleading award and several minor scholarships were given to others. Norman stood, whispered something in Alex’s ear then went to the stage.

It was at that moment when Trish nudged Jen’s shoulder pointing out Debbie and Sandy sitting in the back. Another girl giggled, “it looks like the trailer park is closed for the evening.” Another sniped at the girl’s Wal-Mart clothing.

Norman stood at the podium calling for Debbie Nelson and Sandy Rice. Both girls stunned looked at each other as Norman waved them forward. Awkwardly, they reached the stage. Norman smiled when he made his announcement. “The church has determined we will offer these two young ladies full tuition payment and a generous book allowance for their first year at Valley Community College. If they maintain a B average, the church will provide the same for the second year. With this they can achieve their Associates degrees.” The girls were stunned. Sandy blurted how do we deserve this?”

Norman shook their hands answering their question. “You achieved high school graduation against great odds. You did not quit in spite of hardships placed in your way.” He paused long enough to look at Jen and her entourage.

Gladys leans to a tearful Alex as she whispered. “What did father say to you?”

Alex beaming whispers back. “I heard you when you reminded me it is the Lord’s will. We should not judge and provide a helping hand. Mother, I am so proud of him.” Gladys also wept.

Alex, Kathy and Reagan sat in Kathy’s bedroom hanging out as they were prone to do. “So we made it” Reagan said.

“Made what?” A curious Alex asked. Kathy smiled “virgin graduation dummy.”

Alex blinks, “the prom night still waits and that is the most dangerous night of the year.”

Reagan agrees. “You got that right the guys expect something. It is a rite you know.”

Kathy, nods, “we gotta set some rules.”

“Like?” asks Alex.

Reagan emit’s a dramatic sigh before suggesting “hand jobs should be allowed.”

Kathy nods, “should we include giving head?” Her question was followed by a series of, “gross.”

Alex stated quite firmly “no way will the snake slip past my lips.” “So what are the rules?” Kathy asks with a bit of impatience.

“Hand jobs are ok,” begins Reagan “and if you must drop to your knees we will allow it but you can’t give a detail that falls into slut territory.”

Alex smiles, “they can go down on us though.” The girls giggled.

The day of the prom the girls sat at their table grumbling. “What did you expect?” said Brian. Alex echoes his sentiment, “like anyone but the dynamic duo was going to win. Jen, the Queen and Jake the King were the winners as expected.”

“The way those two hate each other it’s like Karma,” Brian offers.

Kathy speaks next. “Look Patten I hate to admit this but since my bff here,” she points to Alex. “ The girl is absolutely gaga over you I think you should have won.”

Brian emit’s a small blush. “She is head over heels isn’t she.”

Alex pokes him. “Just like me you came in second.”

Reagan objects, “I came in second.”

Kathy no no’s, “wrong I was second.”

Brian blows the whistle, “Ladies it was a three way tie. Therefore in alphabetical order it is Alex 2nd Kathy 3rd and Reagan 4th.”

The girls boo while throwing their straws at him. “So Alex is first because you got the hots for her? You know her last name starts with a W.” The other two girls said in unison.

“Actually, it’s her hair offered Brian. Have you guys noticed how great it looks” Brian adds “I love it Alex.”

She blushes, “hey it is nothing I thought something new was in order.” As always the group walked home after school with Brian kissing Alex saying “I can’t wait to dance with the prettiest girl at the prom.”

As Alex readied for the big night she fretted over every detail as she relived the horror and excitement of selecting just the right dress. Talking with her mother as the woman fretted over every detail Alex noted a hint of concern. “Mother what is wrong?”

Gladys looked at her daughter, “honey in my wildest dreams I never thought I would be talking like this to my Alex. I never dreamed I’d see you in a prom dress looking radiant. I never dreamed I’d caution you or have to worry some boy would talk you into something you would regret.”

Alex shushed her mother, “mom don’t worry Brian and I have not been to bed together.”

Gladys interrupts with a shocked expression, “I never suggested you had.”

Alex nods, “I know but you need to hear it anyway. We won’t tonight I know many girls say the same thing. Brian is the most loving honest man I’ve ever met. Mother you know as well as I do I love him.”

Gladys smiles “I know and if you did do something like that I would not disown you. Brian is exactly the kind of man I’d pick for you. Come along daughter he is about to arrive.”

Alex thought about the hours on end that Kathy and Reagan agonized over their gowns. The trial and errors the changing of their minds seemed to be an endless series of events. They each had examined and approved the other’s selections. There would be no surprises when they see each other tonight. The door bell rang she heard Brian being greeted by her father and mother. She took a moment. ‘They say make him wait.’ She laughed as that thought passed through her mind. Alex took another look into the mirror as she did the first time she saw those budding breast. On that day with firm resolution she said. “I am not a girl.” She smiles, “how wrong I was.”

As she walked down the stairs seeing Brian standing there awkwardly holding the corsage she gazed into his eyes. Brian pinned it to her bosom as she whispered into his ear. “I am glad I’m a girl.” Upon hearing this Brian thought, ‘is this like that phone call that time’ He shrugged, ‘girls’, before he whispered back, “so am I.”

Kathy, Reagan, Brian and Alex all went to the State College. Everyone was shocked when Brian rejected all of those major school’s scholarships. He did receive a scholarship from Iowa State and played well. He had no intention of a professional basketball career. He wanted to be an engineer and now he is. He also wanted to marry the girl he loved and so he did. Brian was not let down by the surprises he had grown to expect from Alex. She had two maids of honor as Alex could not possibly choose between Kathy and Reagan. Before the ceremony, the three ladies stood in the back of the church. They whispered while waiting to walk down the aisle.

Kathy demonstrated that devilish grin she was famous for. “Ok guys it is time to fess up.” The girls presented an odd expression, “what!” “Do you remember prom night? The sworn pact we made?” Kathy challenged. The other two giggled. Kathy draws a breath, “so spill.”

Reagan widens her eyes, “now?” The other two nod. Reagan shrugs saying, “hand job he exploded all over the place. I told Ben that’s all you will get.” The girls laugh as Reagan and Kathy say slowly, “Alex.”

Alex blushes, “Brian resisted he said it would not be right. My fingers,” she pauses, “those little devils could not be resisted. Geeze I never felt anything so big.” Alex’s maids of honor break out laughing as Alex turns on Kathy, “spill.”

Kathy beams, “I guess spill is a good word he came between my breasts.” The two whisper one in each of Kathy’s ears as they walk down the aisle, “slut.”

It may have been the first time in this small church that the bride and her maids were laughing as they approached the altar. However, the Reverend never missed a beat. He had known these girls for a long time and he loved them too.

As Brian entered Alex for the first time she moaned with a release of pleasure. She looked up to her husband happy she was who she was. With a deep breath after being sated she thought, “it was the Lord’s plan.