By Bob Arnold

Chapter 3 — Adjustments

Once again, this chapter has grown much longer than I planned. I hope all of the future chapters don’t get as long as this one. As usual, reader comments are extremely important to me. The current lack of them also tells me a lot too! Please do take a moment or two to send some email after you read the chapter!

If anyone reading the story discovers a typo or other error please let me know so I can correct it. You can send an email to: [email protected] [1]. Please let me know where you saw the story and what the error was. I’ll attempt to get it corrected.

This is entirely a work of fiction with a few life experiences added in. All of the characters in this story are fictional and any resemblance to anyone else living or dead is entirely a coincidence. This story and the other chapters may be archived on any web site provided no fees are charged for access to the story. Please notify me if you are archiving this and the other chapters of the story on a web site. If you intend to publish this story in magazine or book (paper or electronic) format please contact me for arrangements.

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Zapped — Chapter 3 — Adjustments
by Bob Arnold - Copyright 2001 - All Rights Reserved

Dear Diary,

I had better accept that this is a diary. It seems like its turning into one.

Thursday -

Waking up today was much better than yesterday. At least I was in a room I recognized as my own. I found myself face down hugging the pillow. It wasn’t uncomfortable with these things under me after all, just different. My hair was everywhere. That was one problem the old me never faced. I was loosing my hair before anyway. Now I’ll have to figure out some way of keeping this mane in check while I sleep. On top of that my hair smelled BAD. It reeked of the smoke from the bus fire yesterday. I was just too tired last night to do anything about it.

I pushed back the covers and stretched again. A wonderful feeling compared to the creaks and groans my old male body produced from a similar maneuver. This morning however a few muscles complained loud and clear. I must have strained something on the bus yesterday.

The clock said the time was just before 6 AM. I didn’t have to be back at work for at least 2 or maybe 3 weeks but I decided to keep in the habit of rising early in the morning. It seems to take much longer than before for me to get ready to go. I headed for the bathroom.

I sat down and emptied out, wiping myself when I finished. It startled me when I realized I’d done it without really thinking about it. Was I adapting that quickly? I decided that it didn’t matter all that much. I had to adjust anyway. Better sooner than later. Looks like I was taking steps in the right direction. I glanced over at the sink. God Bless Peggy! She had taken a few minutes to dig out the shampoo and conditioner that I had used yesterday at the hospital. I also found a bottle of lilac scented bubble bath. How had Peggy known? Lilacs, roses, strawberries and raspberries were all favorite scents of mine and had been for many years. I had even added roses and lilacs to the front yard of the house when I moved in 10 years ago. Both of them were huge now and the fragrance gently drifting from them in full bloom was wonderful on an early summer morning. The lilacs came first and lasted several weeks. Their deep purple color against the background of dark green leaves and stark branches was striking. Then the roses came in incredible abundance. Delicate deep pink densely packed blooms exploded against light green leaves all over the bush. Like the lilacs, I cut a few roses each day to bring into the house for the kitchen table. Where does it say that men can’t appreciate the beauty of flowers too?

I sighed then reached over to start the water running in the tub. I got the temperature just right then poured some of the bubble bath into the tub and left it to fill. I reached up and removed the rubber bands in my hair holding my ponytail. They hurt coming out and some long hair came with them. I decided there had to be a better way. I tossed the rubber bands in the trash and ran my fingers through my hair to straighten it out. My fingers came out smelling like the smoke from yesterday and were more than a little grimy. I decided a double dose of the shampoo might help.

I headed back to the bedroom to grab a couple of towels. I found the largest, softest towels I had and made a mental note to get quite a few more. Not quite as soft as I would have liked but better than the ones in the hospital. I detoured to the kitchen long enough to pour myself a glass of orange juice and gulp it down. Dad and my sister had brought over some supplies last night while I was sleeping. I remembered Peggy had promised them I would call so I left myself a note to call them later. I started a shopping list and added towels at the top. When I got back to the bathroom the tub had filled. I turned off the water and stripped off the old t-shirt I used as a nightgown.

The back of the bathroom door had a full length mirror. I stood there for a few minutes looking at the woman in the mirror. Nice firm breasts over a slim waist with a flat tummy. Trim legs and arms, thin yes, but not overly so. Just enough muscle and fat to provide all the right curves. I turned sideways to look at my backside. Not bad either. A little smaller than my old butt and much better looking. All the padding in the right places too. I turned back around and focused on the area between my legs. Spreading them slightly I saw soft folds of skin under a patch hair. I knew what was inside and didn’t want to explore there right now. The experience in the hospital bathroom yesterday was more than enough for a few days. I still had a long way to go in mental adjustments before I would be ready to deal with that again.

Three weeks ago if a beautiful woman stood in front of me doing what I was doing in the mirror I would have had an extremely difficult time restraining myself. What was very strange was that I felt no half crazed lust to pleasure myself until I had an orgasm, just amazement and a sense of satisfaction at the beautiful woman I had become. I turned away from the mirror and lowered myself gently into the warm inviting water.

I really enjoyed taking a good hot bath as a man and that pleasure was magnified several times as a woman. I don’t know of any law anywhere that says a man can’t enjoy a good soak too. For me it had helped to temporarily reduce the weight on already sore bones and muscles. Arthritis had claimed both knees and had started on my hip joints. Any relief, even temporary, was always welcomed. The hot water and the buoyancy of the human body in it did much to help relieve the pain. As a woman the hot water and the gentle fragrance of lilacs served to relax muscles still sore from the bus incident. As I dropped lower into the tub, the warm scented water flowed over my shoulders and neck melting the tension away. I checked each leg for cuts, scrapes and bruises. There were only a few small red spots left. Yesterday there had been some nasty bruises and cuts acquired as I had escaped from the bus to the concrete sidewalk 6 feet below the window.

After about 20 minutes, I decided that I had better get moving. I got up then nudged out the drain plug with my foot. I turned on the showerhead and adjusted the temperature. I rinsed off then grabbed the shampoo. I shampooed then rinsed and shampooed then rinsed again. At least most of the grunge and smell was gone. I’d have to go to a professional to get the rest of it out. I decided to skip the conditioner since I would be going to have my hair done anyway, the remaining smell wasn’t very pleasant. I worked most of the water out of my hair with my hands then grabbed a towel to wrap my head turban style.

Stepping the tub onto the bath mat, I grabbed the softest towel I currently
had. Experimentally I tried rubbing it on my skin. It felt much better than the scratchy hospital towels. I finished drying off that way. I decided the underwear could wait and took it back with me to the bedroom after I wrapped a large towel around myself. I turned on the TV and checked the weather on the local morning news show. Flipping through the dial, I stopped on my favorite morning news team. Chris, the morning weather guy, was just launching into his report for today’s weather. I turned up the volume and learned that the temperatures would be up in the lower 80’s with low humidity.

The station was about to go into a bunch of commercials when they mentioned the bus incident story. I decided to see what they were making all the fuss about. A few minutes later the commercials finished and the station came back to the newscasters. “Late yesterday a local woman was credited with helping to save a busload of high school students returning from the State High School Band competition. Here’s Dorene Evans with the report.”

Dorene popped up on the screen. It looked like a live shot on the corner where the accident happened. “Thanks Chuck, Yesterday a very brave young woman helped to rescue a bus load of children despite putting herself at enormous risk.” The image changed and showed me on the ground with the oxygen mask over my face. I was propped up on one elbow talking to Peggy. “Less than an hour after being released from the hospital after recovering from a lightning strike, Jennifer Stevens witnessed a car crashing into this bus (the picture changed to show the burning hulk of the bus) then went to help the injured. Flames erupted from the car’s engine compartment and caught gasoline leaking from the bus’s ruptured tank on fire. Thankfully, all except one of the passengers had been evacuated by Ms. Stevens quick thinking. She returned to the bus to complete a final search when the front tires of the bus exploded sending a wall of flames and smoke through most of the bus.” The pictures showed me going back into the bus and the tires exploding. I realized just how close to being toast I had been. The fireball died out just short of my back singing the last 6 inches of my hair as it streamed out behind be. Smoke poured out all of the open windows. The camera showed me racing to the back of the bus and turning towards the front then turning back again as I found the front route out of the bus blocked by fire. It looked like I froze momentarily then I started digging frantically at the mountain of instrument cases and costumes at the back of the bus. How I tossed some of those heavy looking cases I just don’t know.

“As she was racing the fire to search the bus she herd a moan under the pile of band instruments at the back of the bus. She dug through the pile and located a young girl trapped by the pile as it shifted in the crash. She lifted the girl out and passed her out to a waiting helper. Seconds before the flames totally filled the bus from the gas tank exploding she managed to dive out of the escape window. She made it a few feet away from the bus and was overcome by the smoke she inhaled in the rescue effort.” The narration was running along with the video showing what I had done. “Two of the uninjured students saw her go down and ran in to move her away from the bus barely seconds before it erupted in flame all the way to the back.” The video showed the boys dragging me away from the flaming wreckage over to Peggy and the other injured students.

“We talked with Peggy Thompson, the nurse who happened to be escorting Ms. Evans to her home. The shot changed to a head and shoulders of Peggy. “What can you tell us about the students conditions?”

“Many of them are not injured. The few who are seem to have mainly cuts and bruises. The girl at the back of the bus has some head trauma, possibly from a case falling on her. The driver is a little more serious with head trauma and cuts from contact with the side window of the bus. None of the injuries look life threatening at this time. Ambulances are working to get the all of the students and the bus driver to local hospitals for check ups.”

“And how about Ms. Stevens. How is she doing?” Peggy looked stressed out for a moment then decided to answer. “She’s recovering from a big lung full of smoke and some minor cuts and bruises. Her weakened condition in recovering from her own accident a few weeks ago has tired her out. She’s resting now. She will recover and be up and around tomorrow.”

The scene jumped back to the live shot. The camera panned down to show the scorch marks on the street. Dorene walked into the shot and over the scorch marks as the camera pulled back. “This is all that remains this morning from the accident yesterday. Reports from the local hospitals are that everyone on the bus will recover. The man in the car died in the accident. Police are still tracing his identity since his wallet and other identification was destroyed in the fire. An autopsy will be done to determine the exact cause of death and to try to determine who he was. Police suspect a heart attack occurred causing the driver to slump over on the wheel and his foot to jam down on the accelerator. We’ll keep track and report the results when they’re released. Back to you.”

Pamela, the other morning news co-host, picked up the story. “Thanks Dorene. In related news a press conference was held at Johnson Memorial Hospital yesterday to introduce someone we’ve all been following in the news for the past few weeks. We’ll go back to Dorene for the details.”

“Thanks, Pamela. The events of yesterday’s bus accident are all the more remarkable when you take into account the actions of the young woman who participated in the rescue efforts. Yesterday’s press conference explains the situation. We’ll warn you that the pictures used during the event are a bit startling.” The scene changed to the hospital briefing room as the press conference started.

I watched until the pictures of my change started then turned away until I heard the crowd gasp at the last picture. They continued with my appearance and my entire statement. At the end, the shot changed back to Dorene on the street. “That wraps it all up, Pamela. Word around the mayor’s office is that Jennifer Stevens, Peggy Thompson and several other people that worked on the rescue effort are in line for the city’s highest award — The People’s Medal of Honor. A press conference is scheduled for later today but no word has been given what it’s about. If it is true, this will be the fastest that the award has ever been given. I for one think it’s well deserved. Back to you, Pamela.”

“Thanks, Dorene. Now we’ll hand it over to Chris for a final wrap up on the weather this morning.”

“Thanks, Pamela. I’d usually make some smart joke about the last story but in this case, it just wouldn’t be appropriate. All I can add is well done Jennifer, Peggy and the other folks involved. That could have been a much more tragic situation if not for their efforts. Now lets take a look at the Triple Doppler Radar weather map…”

They must have used almost 15 minutes of airtime on those two stories alone. Even the top story on the station each morning usually rated only a couple of minutes of airtime and that was only if the video that went with it was extremely good. I watched for a few more seconds until I remembered what I had actually turned on the TV to catch. Yes, temperature in the lower 80’s with low humidity. I clicked off the TV and came back to reality when the shock had worn off a little from all of the coverage I had gotten on the station. I just had my 15 minutes of fame. I hoped that’s all I would have. The clock on the nightstand read 7 AM as the news ended. I had better get dressed. I’m wasting time!

I grabbed the bags full of clothes and dumped them out on the bed. I sorted through the stuff putting underwear in one pile, shirts and tops in a second and skirts, pants and shorts in the last pile. I really did need to go shopping. This stuff would only last a few days if I wore everything once before washing it.

Turning my attention to the “bottom half” pile I sorted through until I found another pair of blue jeans. I tossed the jeans aside and moved the rest of that pile to the chair in the bedroom. I went back to the bed and looked through the tops. I found another shirt like the one I wore yesterday in a light green color and put it aside too. Then that pile went onto the chair for later sorting. The underwear went into the chair last.

I took off the towels and pulled on the panties. They fit snugly again but I didn’t feel quite as strange wearing them as I had yesterday. The bra was next. I put it on like before and had a little less difficulty managing it this time. I pulled the shirt over my head after opening the top buttons. I moved my hair out of the way and adjusted the shirt a little to fit properly around by breasts. The jeans were last. Like yesterday, my balance wasn’t what I was used to so I sat down and pulled them over my feet as far as they would go. I got up and worked them over my hips and zipped them up and fastened the button. The closet door had a full-length mirror that I used to see what the combination looked like. I thought it looked good and since I was going shopping for new clothes, I could change into something I was buying anyway. I grabbed a pair of sandals on the floor next to the bed and put them on. Finishing that I decided to check out what was in my purse.

I found it on the dresser where I had dropped it last night. I upended it on the bed. Let’s see…keys, wallet, change purse full of coins, small package of tissues, lipstick, tampons and pads… tampons and pads? …. Oh, ok. A comb, brush, makeup, breath mints and checkbook completed the contents. Looks like Peggy had set me up with enough stuff to take care of most things.

Yes I DO know what the tampons and pads were for. I just don’t know how to properly use them yet. Growing up in a house with two women (my mother and sister) and a very small cramped bathroom you learned lots of things about the other sex whether you wanted to or not. Maybe that’s why I’m not as upset about the change as everyone thinks I should be. When you saw most of the female side of life daily you sort of got de-sensitized to everything that went with it. My dad and I put up with panties and panty hose hung on the shower door drying almost every night. Boxes of tampons and pads were stored alongside our shaving supplies. We routinely got elbowed for space at the mirror while we shaved and they wanted to put on makeup or do their hair on those busy mornings when everyone’s schedules lumped together. When my sister reached her early teen years Dad and I gave up the fight in the morning and moved our shaving and clean-up stuff near a sink in the utility room. At least we had a little space to ourselves as the growing assortment of female undergarments and stockings invaded the regular bathroom.

My sister entering puberty prompted the movement of our shaving stuff to another location. It turned out that it was very hard on the kids on my dad’s side of the family. We never figured out a reason either. When I entered puberty, I lost control of my emotions. I got extremely angry and confrontational. I knew inside that it was happening but I could do very little to control it. One day the rage became so great over some silly little argument that I punched a hole in a wall 8 inches thick with plaster and lath construction. Clean through the wall on both sides! I still have a large framed picture of that back at the old house. From that day onward, I began a search to find help for my problem. Doctors wanted to prescribe medications but they never seemed to work or would have serious side effects in the strength needed to be effective. Other doctors wanted to have me undergo months of therapy. All of their treatments were tried. All of them failed.

Star Trek was new on TV back then and I thought of Spock with his control of his emotions as a god. I read everything I could on meditation techniques and eventually learned enough to begin to be able to control my rage. It took two long years but I finally beat the demon, locking it away deep within me. My victory was not complete though. Under stress, I could still feel it trying to claw its way out of that dark, forbidden corner of my mind. I managed to keep the demon at bay for over 30 years. Believe me, back then you would NEVER have wanted to see me truly angry.

After the transformation, I felt none of the old stress or rage inside me. It was like a great burden had been lifted from my soul. If this body is what is required to gain the mental peace I had only hoped to achieve then I was more than willing to embrace the change. Whatever happens from now on, I NEVER want to go back to fighting the demon. I only pray that it is really gone and not laying dormant waiting for something to happen to wake it up again.

Just as I had beaten my demon into submission my sister entered puberty and had a similar though much less traumatic experience. I helped her to lock her demon away. It brought us very close together. So much that we seemed to share a mental bond. She knows when I’m in trouble and I could sense when she had problems. She’s been very happy for the past 30 years. She’s married to a wonderful husband. We’re waiting to see what happens when her daughter enters puberty in another 10 years or so.

I must have been setting here thinking for almost half an hour, the clock read 7:30 now. I grabbed my comb and straightened out my hair. The ends were really singed and still smelled like burnt hair. It was still a little damp so I decided to leave it as it was for the moment.

My tummy growled again telling me that breakfast was long overdue. I turned off the TV in the bedroom and headed for the kitchen. The answering machine on the counter was blinking madly. I went over to look at the message counter on the machine. It read 50, as many as it would handle. I looked at the phone and found a note from Peggy that she had turned off the ringers to let me have a little peace and quiet overnight. I know I wasn’t in any shape last night to handle the flood of calls. I replaced the incoming message cassette in the machine with a new one and reset the counter. I’ll listen to all of these messages later today. I recorded a new greeting message in my new voice and name — “Hi this is Jennifer. Sorry I missed your call. Please leave your name, number and a brief description of what your call was about and I’ll call back as soon as I can. Please wait for the beep! Thanks!”

I hit the answer button on the machine then turned the ringer back on and was greeted by the phone ringing immediately. The ringing started the machine. The volume control on the machine was turned up from checking my greeting message so the caller’s voice was audible after my announcement. “Hello Jennifer. This is Verbatik Legal Services calling to offer our representation in any legal matters resulting from your recent accident. If you require legal services please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our number is…”

The call completed and the phone rang again! “Hello Jennifer. This is Trisha Burns in the Mayor’s office. I’m pleased to inform you that you and several others responsible for rescuing the children from the bus last night will be awarded the People’s Medal of Honor at a special formal dinner to be held in your honor about 2 weeks from now. We need some additional information from you and we’ll also provide you with additional details when you return this call.” She went on to leave her name again and the phone number then she was gone.

A few seconds later… “Hello Jennifer. This is Jarrett Daniels. I’m calling to inquire about an interview concerning your accident and how you’re adjusting. I work for…” I recognized the firm as the publisher of a national and several regional tabloid newspapers. He left his phone number and hung up.

The next call was some drunken sounding college kid asking for a date. Probably some fraternity had made him do it as an initiation prank. Since he left his name and number, I was really tempted to call him later and pull a prank of my own. I thought better of it though and decided to turn the volume down on the machine and the ringer off on the phone. It’ll take care of itself for a while.

Two phone lines were installed in my house. This one was the published number. The second line was unlisted and only my closest friends and family had the number. I looked at a duplicate answering machine and saw about 5 messages. I decided that they could wait a little and turned the ringer back on for the phone on that line. My tummy growled again. Feeling rather empty, I scrounged around the kitchen looking for possibilities for breakfast. Checking the fridge, I located a half-gallon of milk. A loaf of fresh bread was setting on the table. I’ll have to go grocery shopping but I did have something I could do for breakfast. I grabbed the bread and put 4 slices in the toaster. I grabbed the margarine from the fridge and got a butter knife out of the drawer. A minute or so later the toaster popped the bread out. Buttering each slice, I put them on a paper plate on the table. I went back to the fridge and took the milk and the orange marmalade off the door. A glass was retrieved from a cabinet as I returned to the table.

After pouring myself a glass of milk (1 percent of course — gotta keep this figure!) I loaded up a slice of toast with a big glop of the marmalade. I finished all of the toast and the glass of milk. As I was rinsing out the glass to place it in the dishwasher the front doorbell chimed. I answered the door by opening it with the security chain in place. It turned out to be Peggy loaded down with a couple of shopping bags. “Hang on — I’ll let you right in!” I closed the door enough to remove the chain and opened the door wide.

“Hi, Peggy, You’re here early!”

“I had to get out of the house. My phone was ringing off the hook with reporters trying to find out more about you and the bus accident. My hubby just laughed and headed for work. I figured if I got out of the house early they might give up calling if all they got was an answering machine.”

“Not very likely, Peggy.” I looked at my own machine as she followed me to the kitchen. “Mine has been going all morning. It has 15 calls on it now and it has only been 30 minutes since I last changed the incoming tape. It was FULL when I checked it this morning. 50 messages! I haven’t listened to most of them yet. Did you get a call from the Mayor’s office?”

“Yes, you too?” I nodded yes. “We’ll need to make sure you get some formal stuff on the shopping trips then. Maybe a strapless little black dress, high heels and some other sexy things.”

“Hold it there! I’m NOT READY for that stuff yet. Can’t I just get a pant suit type of outfit and let it go at that?

“If you wanna look like a frumpy old lady sure go ahead. Jennifer, the world looks at you and sees a beautiful young woman. I know you’re not completely used to that image yet but you HAVE to look and act the part because that is expected of you. You DON’T have to act like a wild woman but you DO need to adopt a style that matches the young woman you now are.”

“Alright. If I have to, I will. Nothing says I have to like it though. What did you bring with you in the bags?”

“Just some stuff I grabbed to help get us ready for a day of shopping. Some better hair supplies, a few more little snacks and an extra pair of shoes for myself to change into as we’re shopping. I take shopping seriously and power shopping like we’ll be doing for you today is a major effort. We will be gone for hours getting you most of the things you’ll need for that new body of yours.”

“I think we should take my truck. There’s much more room in the cab and the bed is covered with a cap. It’s empty right now so there’s loads of room for stuff.”

“Are you okay to drive?”

“I should be fine. The pickup has an automatic transmission and power brakes and steering just like a car. I’ve been driving something like it for years so I’m used to a vehicle that big. It should be quite a sight at the mall when two women get out of that big lumbering beast shouldn’t it?”

“That will boggle a few minds. From what I saw of your truck, it looks almost like a showpiece. All that red paint and those two white racing stripes on the hood, roof and tailgate. It even has tinted windows. The matching cap makes it look good too. Didn’t they have a truck a lot like yours in the movie ‘Twister’?”

“That was a Dodge RAM 3500. Mine is only a RAM 1500 but they do look a lot alike if you take away the stripes on mine. I only realized it when I was watching the movie again on tape. The scene near the start of the movie with the shot of the truck racing down the road in the middle of a field of corn or something is my favorite. I just remembered that the owner of the local drive-in was going to have ‘Twister’ running again as part of a double feature disaster movie night. He’s a friend and wanted me to bring the truck and my weather equipment over for a display when the movie opens in a weekend or two.” I made a note to call him later to see if the movie was still scheduled.

“I like the scene where they’re heading towards the big tornado and the truck gets picked up into the funnel just after they jump out.”

“Seems like a waste of a perfectly good truck to me but it was exciting. Peggy, would you like some orange juice or something? Sorry I don’t have much to offer you. I need to make a grocery run today.”

“No I’m fine. I had a big breakfast just before I left so I’m all set. It looks like you have quite a place here.”

“I’m happy with it. It has enough space and it can be rather cozy at times. Want the 10 cent tour?”

“Lead on….”

We went through the house stopping in many of the rooms. I showed Peggy the computer room where my Internet servers and most of the rest of the processing power in the house resided. Next was the radio room and ham station. The living room with the large screen television and entertainment center was the last stop in the house. Then a trip into the backyard to show her the above ground pool. It was one of those 10 by 20 models about 4 feet deep. The water was clear and inviting but a little cold when I put my hand in it. I went over to the pool pump controls and turned the heater back on and adjusted the temperature a little upwards.

“Jen, you didn’t mention a pool before. Can I bring a swimsuit next time?”

“Sure, please do. I put this in a few years ago to help with the arthritis in the knees. Now I can just use it for fun and to keep fit. We can get you a suit today if you want to go in later this afternoon. I’m planning on it myself after I pick up a suit. The back yard is not really visible from the front of the house and the trees on either side shield it from the neighbor’s houses so it is fairly private. Late at night in the dark I’ve been known to skinny dip a little now and then.”

“Jen, You should get working on a tan. That skin of yours is as white as a bed sheet. We’ll need to get you a teeny weenie bikini and some good sunscreen and tanning lotion. You’ll want to get a good tan before the Mayor’s party for us.”

“I’m not certain about the bikini but if it’s in my own back yard I guess it wouldn’t be too bad. I don’t want to get tan lines that showed under normal clothes most of the time anyhow.”

“If this back yard is as private as you say it is then just tan in the nude. Then there will be no tan lines at all.”

“I didn’t say it was THAT private but I might consider it some day. Let’s get back inside. I’m expecting a couple of phone calls.” We headed back for the living room and got comfy on the couch.

“Jen, one thing I have to ask is why aren’t you having a harder time adjusting to all of this? If I had to go through all that you have I think I wouldn’t be able to function right now yet you seem to be doing fine. Why?”

“I’ve been asking that question of myself the past two days. I think the main thing is that there are no other alternatives. I have to accept being a woman because there is no way back to being a man again. I could be mad at the world but the only one that would be hurt is me. I’ve been hurt enough already to last several lifetimes. The other part of this is that this transformation feels right. The more time I spend like this the better it feels. Somehow, I think that my last 45 years as a man was a huge cosmic mistake and that the accident reset things back to normal for me again. The only things that still bother me are the feelings I’m starting to have about men and the feeling that something is still missing. It feels like I’m not complete yet. I can’t figure out what’s missing.”

“I think I understand most of that. Why do you seem to know more than the average man about being a woman?”

“ I was raised in a house with two women, my mom and my younger sister. The house was very small and there wasn’t much privacy so I learned a lot about the female experience if I wanted to or not. Some of the mechanics of being female are strange to me but others like getting dressed and some hygiene issues just are not a problem.”

“Jen, I was raised in a similar situation with my dad and two brothers. I know all about the guy stuff too even if I really didn’t care to know it. It did help me when I met my husband to better understand what made him the way he is. Um, Jen, why are you setting like that?”

I looked down and found that I had without thinking set down on the couch and crossed my legs at the knees in a very ladylike position. “I don’t really know. It was sort of automatic, I just felt comfortable. I couldn’t do this as a man.”

“If you can remember that all of the time you’re well on your way towards adjusting to the new mannerisms you need to have.”

“Peggy, So much has changed over the past few days. I still marvel at how fast I’m adapting. Its like I was mostly female mentally all along and didn’t know it.”

The private line telephone started ringing. I picked it up. “Hello?”

“Hello, This is James Randolph at Wicks Bank. Can I speak to Jennifer Stevens please?”

“Yes that’s me.”

“Hello Ms Stevens. I’m the bank manager returning your call. What can I do for you today?”

“Thanks for calling back. I need to come in and see you about a name change on my accounts at your bank and about the deposit of a rather large sum of money into those accounts.”

“Name change? Was your name Robert Stevens by any chance?”

“Yes, I’m the one.”

“Yes Ms. Stevens. We’ve all been following your recovery and the events of last night. How are you feeling today?”

“Much better thanks. Is there a time available today when I can pay you a visit to get some paperwork out of the way?”

“Yes, any time after about 11 AM. The hospital was most helpful in providing some documentation on your case. We have the proof we need to make the required changes to your accounts. In fact, most of them are just awaiting your signature. You mentioned a large deposit too?”

“I did, it’s a settlement from the insurance company, a rather large one. I have a cashier’s check. I’ll need access to those funds almost immediately after they are deposited. Then I have additional documentation on the rest of the settlement funds to give you.”

“We can handle that. Just bring along whatever documentation you have and we’ll get things started. See you after 11?”

“Yes, I’ll be there. Bye!” I put the phone back and smiled at Peggy. “At least I’m financially secure now. I won’t have to work again if I take care and do a few investments. I think I want to go back to work anyway though. It just doesn’t seem right setting around all day. I need to stay busy with something.”

“I’m glad to hear you say that you’re going back to work. I can’t imagine you as a member of the idle rich crowd. I don’t believe snobby parties and polo matches are your style.”

“That’s true. I’m a stock car and hot dog type person. I’d rather go have some fun watching a stock car race at the track or maybe even driving one in a race.” The private line rang again. “Hello?”

“Hi, I’m Rebekkah from A Cut Above Unisex hair salon. Is there a Bob Stevens there?”

“Yes there is. How are you doing Bekkie?”

“There’s only ONE person that calls me that and you don’t sound like him. Is Bob there?”

“Yes, he’s here. Bekkie, remember that news story about the guy that got hit by lightning and…”

“Oh MY GOD! Bob was that you?”

“Yes Bekkie, that was me. I’m Jennifer now. How are you doing?”

“Well THAT explains why you missed your last appointment and never called us to let us know when to reschedule. I assume from the video we all saw this morning you need some help after last night?”

“Yes, Bekkie, that’s why I called. I need an appointment for early this afternoon, say around1 PM?” I glanced over at Peggy. “On second thought can you make that a visit for two people around 1 PM?”

“We can handle that. Come on over! I’ll see you then. Bye!”

“Bye Bekkie!” I put the phone down and smiled at Peggy again. “Well it looks like we’re going to get our hair done after lunch.”

“What do you mean ‘WE’?”

“That’s right I said WE. If I have to go through it, you do TOO! When I was starting to loose my hair I found a unisex salon that helped me prolong what little I had left of my normal hair. I never wanted to use Rogaine or anything like that but I did feel that proper care of what I had left was better than trying to take care of it myself. Rebekkah and her staff are my friends and I feel comfortable there. I may as well go where I’m comfy for this and you’re invited too, on me.” Peggy was grinning from ear to ear at the thought of a complete makeover. I must admit that I was looking forward to it too. This time it would be from an entirely different perspective as a woman though.

I uncrossed my legs and stretched. “Peggy, we have about an hour and a half before we need to get going. Can you help me move all of my old clothes into the guest bedroom? I’ll sort them out later and donate them to a shelter I know of. I’m sure they will either be able to find someone that needs them or they can sell them for funding. Either way they will do some good for someone.”

“Let’s get to it then. We do need to make room in your closet for the new stuff.”

We headed for my bedroom and proceeded to strip the closet and dresser of all of the old clothes. Everything went except for some favorite T-shirts. I could still use those around the house as nightshirts. The pile filled the bed in the guest bedroom to overflowing. “Wow. I didn’t think I had that many clothes!”

“I think It’s just all of the extra cloth in each piece. A few of those pairs of pants of yours could be cut down into some real nice skirts. Especially some of the denim jeans.”

“Peggy, if you want to try it grab what you want. Just make one or two for me if they come out looking good. Ok?”

“That works for me! Let me put these in my car so I don’t forget them later.” She grabbed about 6 pairs of my old jeans and stuffed them in her Beetle. I headed back to the kitchen as she disappeared out of the front door. About two minutes later I heard the front door open and close.

“Peggy, What else do we need to pick up? I started a list.”

She came back into the kitchen carrying a huge stack of mail. “I saw your mail person delivering this. It wouldn’t all fit in the box so I grabbed it.”

“Just drop it there on the counter. I’ll wade through it real fast before we leave. Is there anything we need to get? I started a list this morning.” The next 30 minutes were spent adding items to the list and assigning some quantities to each item. I’m glad we made the list because there is a LOT you needed when your anatomy changed from male to female. The list grew to more than 2 pages including a list of basic clothing items. Right there I decided that we needed to break this down into two days of shopping. With the bank appointment, lunch and the hair appointment all scheduled for today we decided to get the basic food and hygiene items off the list today. I would need a few basic clothes items today but the rest could wait until tomorrow. I did have a washer/dryer that I could use to take care of the things Peggy had purchased for me. All I needed was the proper supplies.

Peggy glanced over at the purse I had on the counter. “That’s not big enough for today. I got you a larger one. Let me go and get it while you sort out the mail.” She headed off to the bedroom to locate the larger purse.

I dove into the mail pile sorting it into two piles. Junk mail and everything else. The junk mail pile was by far the larger of the two when I finished. I decided to look at that again later to make sure something didn’t get in the wrong pile and shoved it aside. The other pile contained several letters from various businesses and a big pile of get well cards from friends. I decided to take the business letters with me in case they were something I needed today. Peggy came back with a shoulder bag at least three times larger than the purse I had. I transferred everything in the purse to the bag and stuffed in the letters. I had another look at the check. It read $250,000. The bank was definitely going to space out over that one. The clock read 10:30. I had a quick glass of milk then grabbed my bag and the folder the hospital had provided with new ID paperwork and headed for the door. Peggy followed close behind with her stuff.

Outside I immediately noticed that I was much shorter then the truck. I had been 6 feet 2 inches tall as a man. As a woman, I was about 5 and a half feet tall. The driver side door sure looked a LOT higher off the ground than it had been and the door was much harder to pull open after I unlocked it too. I scrambled up into the cab. Not very well-mannered but then it was the best I could do when my butt no longer reached the seat without stepping up into the truck first.

I spent a few minutes re-adjusting the seat and mirrors for my new size. Thank God for tilt steering wheels. The one in this truck sure came in handy for making it easy to drive. The seat needed to be moved forward and the backrest adjusted forward too. The seat had a height adjustment so I raised it a little to compensate for my reduced height. The mirrors were all power operated so adjustments there took only a few seconds. “Peggy, I’m all set. How about you?”

“Let’s go!”

I buckled the seat belt after removing the now unneeded extender and adjusted the belt so it fit between my breasts instead of pressing on the left one. The truck grumbled to life when I turned the key and I waited for a few seconds for the engine to stabilize. It was one of those high performance Magnum engines and I always liked to give it a few seconds for the oil pressure to properly build up. I turned on the radio and set it to my favorite oldies station.

I put the truck into reverse and gently tapped on the gas. The truck slowly backed out of the driveway. I decided to have a little fun with Peggy and really mashed down on the gas. The truck lurched forward like it was coming off the line at a drag strip. All I heard out of Peggy was a “YES!” and a small whoop as the tires squealed. I eased up on the gas and the tires fully connected with the pavement. We were doing 60 miler per hour in a few seconds. I stole a quick glance over at Peggy who was smiling. The roar of the engine died down to a more normal level. “Well, Peggy, how did you like that? Hope I didn’t scare you too much.”

“Scare me? NEVER! I’ve always wanted to do that. I go to the drag races with my hubby on weekends. I like racing too you know.”

“Maybe we can go to the track together. Bring along your hubby too. I have some friends that have a supermodified car they race on Sunday nights at a local track. I host their web site for them. Occasionally I go to get new pictures and sound for the site. Besides I used to do a little racing myself about 20 years ago.”

“This weekend is out since I have some family activities already planned. How about next weekend?”

“Peggy, I’ll check with the team and see if they’re racing and if it’s OK to hang out with them for the night. I’ll let you know on Monday, ok?”

“Works for me. Let’s turn up the music since I like the oldies.” I bumped up the volume on the radio to overcome the cab noise. I got a little lost in thought about the events of the last few days. The time just flew by, as did the miles to my hometown. We entered the town limits.

“Want to come in, Peggy? This should be a good one and I can’t wait to see the look on the faces of the staff there when they see how much they will be handling.”

“Sure, sounds like it could be quite a show. I’m in.”

“Then let’s do it!” I pulled into a parking space at the bank and shut off the engine. A quick check in the mirror to be sure I was presentable and off I went to the bank. I opened the door and stepped in. Nearly every head in the bank turned in my direction. A few moments later the entire bank erupted in applause. It felt like I blushed from the top of my head to my toes. I stared down at the floor and did notice that my toes did look a little more pinkish than normal. Someone came over and escorted Peggy and I to a desk as the applause died down. We sat down in chairs across from the desk. I remembered to cross my legs at the knees and placed my hands in my lap on my bag.

“Hello Ms Stevens, I’m James Randolph the bank manager. I’m so glad that you decided to visit us today. First may I say how pleased everyone is that you are recovering after your own accident and the bus accident last night. We’re also delighted that our hometown has a genuine heroine.”

“Mr. Randolph…”

“James or Jim please…”

“Ok, James, I was just one of many people that made the rescue so successful. Everyone, from the students themselves to the firefighters to the other drivers that helped, is to be commended. I had a very small part in the whole thing.”

“Well I know of one little girl that doesn’t think your part was so small. In any event what can I do for you today?”

I gave Peggy a little nudge as she sat in the chair next to me. “James, here is the cashier’s check I mentioned and this is the additional paperwork on the settlement.” I reached in the bag and handed him the pile of paperwork I had prepared at home. As he looked at it the color slowly drained from his face. As he reached the last page he took a deep breath and thought for a few moments, the color slowly returning.

“Wow. That was a little more than I expected. You do know of course that this would make you the largest customer of the bank?”

“Yes. I’m quite happy with the services this bank has to offer and I currently see no need to change unless the bank can’t handle this.”

“That won’t be necessary. I’m quite certain that we can handle this unique situation. Let me talk to a couple of people and get things moving. I’ll be right back with the identity paperwork since we need to finish that first before we can work this out.”

“James?”

“Yes?”

“I ask that no word of this leaks out about the settlement. I do NOT want the rest of the world to know about it. Should any word leak out about this, and it can be proven that it came from this bank, I’ll be forced to take my business elsewhere. Is that a problem?”

“Not at all, Ms. Stevens.”

“James… that’s Jennifer please….”

“Alright Jennifer, I’ll be right back.” He picked up the paperwork and collected two other people. They went into a huddle in one of the offices.

We waited for a few minutes as the little group showed signs of a rather animated discussion. Then James picked up a different folder and came back to the desk. “Sorry that took so long but there were a few things we needed to work out. They will continue to work on that while we get this paperwork completed.”

“So James, where do we start?”

“I need you to sign these forms to complete the changes in your accounts. Basically, it’s just the standard procedure someone would go through if they simply changed their name for some reason. All of your existing accounts will remain intact and the information and balances on them will be reassigned the new name. Just sign the forms at the spots marked with the red X.” He handed me a stack or paper.

“I want to look each of them over as I sign them. It should take me only a few minutes.”

“That’s fine.”

I looked over each form before signing it. It looked pretty straightforward. I noticed a form in the pile changing the name on my credit card with the bank too. “James, will I be able to use my existing credit cards until the replacements arrive?”

“Yes you will. We’ve prepared a letter you can show anyone if the question arises while you are using it. The letter has a special number that can be called to confirm the change of name and that you are the correct person to be using the old cards. Your new cards should be sent in the mail in about 10 days. You’ll need to sign your old name on the receipts until the new card arrives however. The same also applies to your checking account except that your new name is acceptable on the old checks. You’ll have a new supply of checks with the correct name in about a week. The letter will also cover the checks too”

“Thanks! I have to use them later today to go shopping. I need to get a completely new wardrobe since none of the old clothes fit any more.” I finished signing the stack of papers and handed them back to him.

“Let me take these to be processed and I’ll see how the transfer is coming.” He left for the other office.

“Well Peggy, how do you think its going?”

“Sounds like they’re doing everything they can to help. And I think the manager has a thing for you too.”

“No, you’re kidding me right?”

“Not a bit. I saw how he was looking at you while you were signing the paperwork.”

“I hope not. I’m not ready to deal with that yet. Here he comes…”

“Jennifer, We have the check worked out. How would you like that deposited?”

“Can I get enough of the check placed on my credit card to clear the existing balance? I would like to use it today as I’ve said and need the maximum credit line available. I also need about $100,000 in my checking account. Could you confirm both of those transfers so I can use the funds today? Is it possible to set up a special account for the rest and use it also for the balance of the settlement? I need a way to secure those funds. I don’t want the entire amount in my normal checking account for obvious reasons. Oh, I also need about $2,000 in cash, mostly $100 bills please.”

“Yes we can handle it that way. Let me get that going.” He headed back towards the other office.

“I don’t know, Peggy. Maybe I’m just not picking up the same signals from him that you are.”

“I’ll bet that he asks you for a date.”

“I’ll bet he doesn’t even if he wants to. Oops, here he comes again…I’ll explain later.”

“It looks like it should take about half an hour to put everything in place and confirm it. Would you ladies like to go have lunch then come back when you’re finished?”

“Peggy, I think that’s what we’ll do. I know a great little Italian place not far from here. It’s just up the street a little. We can walk there.”

“Ok Jen, Let’s go.”

“James, Thank you for your help. We’ll be back in about an hour. By the way, this is my friend Peggy Thompson. Sorry I didn’t introduce her earlier. I was a little preoccupied with my business here.”

“Peggy, Jennifer, I look forward to your return. Let me see you out.”

We all got up and headed for the door. He opened the door and held it for us as we exited the building. “OK Jen, Where to now?”

“Take a left. Nicola’s is up the street about two blocks.”

We walked along Main Street headed for the restaurant. Along the way several cars passed blowing their horns and waving. Many I recognized as friends. When we got close to Nicola’s I bumped into an older white haired man coming out of the hardware store next to the restaurant. I looked up and almost instantly gave the man a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. Peggy and the man looked quite startled.

“Peggy, I’d like you to meet my father. Dad, this is my friend Peggy Thompson.” He looked puzzled for a moment then recognized her from last night.

“Hi Peggy, nice to meet you again. Been taking good care of my little girl here have you?”

“I sure have.”

Dad stood there looking me over from head to toes. “Wow have you changed. Are you doing all right now? You looked pretty out of it when we visited last night.”

“I’m fine Dad. I’m in town to get the identity stuff taken care of at the bank and pay a visit to Rebekkah. My hair still reeks of smoke from the bus accident.”

“She called and said you would be in town today. What was that hug and kiss thing all about? You never used to do that before.”

“Just call it a girl thing. After all I’m a woman now!”

“I noticed that. Where are you headed now?”

“We were just going to Nicola’s for lunch. Want to come?”

“I’d like that a lot but right now I have a little problem at the house. The water pump stopped working again. I was just getting some parts to fix it. I have to get back and get it working again. Can we get together again in a couple of days?”

“We sure can Dad. I need to talk over a lot of things with you and my sister. Can we try for Sunday at your house?”

“That should be fine. You’d better check with your sister though. I’m not certain what her work hours are these days. I’ll see you then. Give me a call later tonight OK?” He headed off towards an old rusty light blue Dodge Caravan. I just shook my head and smiled. Everything in his world was about to change even more and he didn’t even know it yet.

“I’ll do that, Dad! I Love You!” He fired up the engine and in a few moments was gone in the traffic.

“Jen, Is it always like that in your family? I thought he would be much more emotional to see you.”

“That’s the way it always been. I just grew up accepting it. Most of the Stevens clan seems to be that way. I still don’t know why.” We walked a few more steps towards a door that read ‘Nicola’s Fine Italian Dining’. The doorbell tinkled as we entered.

A little old man looking somewhere between 75 and a hundred and twenty five greeted us as we entered the dining room. He spoke with a heavy Italian accent I won’t even try to duplicate here. “Welcome to my humble restaurant. What may I do for you lovely ladies?”

I turned slightly and winked at Peggy. I turned back towards our host. “So Nico, What’s an old fart like you doing still waiting on tables?” Then I smiled at him.

He looked at me for a moment with a huge scowl on his face then I saw a flash of recognition. Then the scowl got much worse and his voice thundered throughout the restaurant. “Why you young insolent whelp. I ought to put you over my knee and spank you to within an inch of your life for disrespecting your elders.” I cringed with mock fear. “But then I’ve always had a weakness for beautiful young ladies.” A huge smile erupted on his face as he scooped me up twirled me around in the air and set me back down with a big hug and a kiss on the cheek.

“Thanks Papa Nico, I really needed that. It feels like old times.”

“You look good, Jennifer now is it?” I nodded yes. “The whole town has been following how you were doing! It’s good to have you home again even for a little while. How long are you here?”

“Just for today, Papa. I’m doing some business at the bank then I’m going over to see Rebekkah.” Just then, an old woman came running out of the kitchen with a worried look on her face.

“Papa, What’s all the shouting about?”

“Mama, Look who’s here!”

The old woman looked me over then waggled a gnarled finger in my face. “Better get some meat on those bones girl. You’ll NEVER catch a husband looking like THAT!” then she too broke out in a big grin. “It’s good to see you Jennifer. I recognized you from the pictures on the news.”

I whined “Aw Mama Marie, I’ve only been back to visit for a few minutes and already you’re trying to fatten me up and marry me off!”

“Well I couldn’t get you fixed up with a girl when you were a man, can you blame me for trying now?”

“Not a bit, Mama, Not a bit. It just shows you still care.” I gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

A couple more customers came in the door. “Ok Mama, back to the kitchen with you. We have customers to feed!”

“I know Papa, the lunch rush. Everything is ready!”

Nicola turned back to us. “Are you ladies eating with us today?”

“Yes Papa, we are. This is my friend Peggy Thompson. How about the usual table?”

“It’s all yours any time you’re in town You know that! Do you want your usual?”

“Yes please but about half the pasta. I just can’t hold as much as I could before. And can you bring a menu for Peggy?”

“Sure. You go set down and I’ll be right there.” He went over to seat the other customers then headed towards the kitchen.

Peggy and I went over to a booth near the window. “Jen, you sure do know some interesting people. I thought he was going to take your head off for what you did back there!”

“You have to understand Papa Nico and I go a LONG ways back. I used to work here some nights and weekends as a kid and I’ve been coming here for years when I lived in town. He and Mama Marie are like a second set of parents to me.”

“Is the whole town like this?”

“No. I wish it were sometimes. It can be a lot like living in the city since so many of the people here work there anyway. This is one of those ‘bedroom towns’ you hear about. People seem to bring the city mentality home with them. Folks like Papa and Mama tend to stay in town and have a different viewpoint of life. There are times I really want to make the move back here but life in the city is what I have to deal with at the moment.”

Papa came back to the table carrying two trays. One had a plate of pasta on it. The other had glasses of water, butter, silverware and hot garlic bread. He had a menu tucked under his arm. As he neared the table he launched into a chorus of ‘That’sAmore’ and continued as he set up the table and put my plate in front of me. Somewhere in the process I decided to join in singing with him. He sang for a bit and then fell silent as I continued the song. He joined back in on the last verse doing harmony. As we finished the other couple in the place were clapping and cheering. Peggy and Mama Marie joined in. I stood up and Papa and I took our bows. I put my hand under my chin and curtsied to Papa then he took my hand and kissed it.

“The voice of an angel my dear. You absolutely MUST come back and sing for us one evening. I think everyone in town may come to hear you!”

“Always the businessman eh, Papa?”

“Of course my dear. How do you think I’ve been open this long? Give the customer good food in a good family atmosphere at reasonable prices and they’ll return every time. Customer loyalty is worth more than almost anything else! It’s a shame more business people don’t take advantage of it.”

“Very true, Papa! Peggy, please look over the menu then let Papa know what you want. It’s on me today!”

Papa winked then went to take care of the other table. I started in on the garlic bread while it was still hot.

Peggy looked up from her menu. “Jen, Aren’t you worried about garlic breath?”

“Not at all, Peggy. Growing up in a largely Italian town, you just accept it. By the time we’re ready to leave town it won’t be a problem anyway.”

“If you say so. Now where did he go?” Peggy turned around to find Nico only to wind up looking him directly in the stomach. “Wow for an old guy you sure do get around fast!”

“It’s the garlic my dear. Keeps you young and vital. What would you like today?”

“I’ll have the Fettuccini Alfredo please.”

“Ah, excellent choice. That’s one of Mama’s specialties. Any desert today ladies?”

“Nico, does Mama have any of her famous Chocolate Pie today?”

“Always my dear, always. You know that’s the house specialty!”

“Two small slices then please Papa. I’ve got to watch my figure.”

“Do you mind if I watch it too?”

“Papa, you always were a dirty old man! For as long as I’ve known you you’ve always had an eye for the ladies.”

“Yes my dear that is true. When Papa Nico stops looking at the ladies it is well past time to plant him in the ground! Away to the kitchen with me!” He reached back and grabbed the collar of his shirt then staggered towards the kitchen. The effect looked like an invisible bouncer throwing out a drunk. Peggy and I both laughed as did the couple at the other table.

“How does he DO that?” Peggy inquired.

“I don’t know he just does it. I think that’s where I get a lot of my stuff from too.”

“You’re both WEIRD. You know that don’t you?”

“Yes I do. Thanks! It’s something we’re both extremely of proud of.”

We continued eating and finished up our lunch. Papa Nico peeked around the kitchen door. I saw him and nodded slightly. A few moments later a loud crash came from the kitchen. Papa came out holding a tray with two slices of the Chocolate Pie. He was looking rather upset and was muttering to himself in Italian. He got about 6 feet away from our table and stumbled on something on the floor. Peggy looked on in horror as the tray with the pie slices headed directly for her face. With no time to do anything else, she just closed her eyes to keep the pie goo out. She didn’t see him recover a split second before the tray would have hit her and set the tray deftly on the table in front of her.

A couple of seconds passed and one of her eyes opened. I guess she expected to be covered in Chocolate Pie. The look on her face when she saw both slices intact on the tray in front of her was priceless. Papa Nico was standing at her side smiling. She looked up at him with a look of wonder on her face. He simply winked and went to tend the other table.

“Jen, What the hell just happened? I thought I was gonna wear that pie!”

“Never fear, I saw him miss only once in almost 20 years. You are now an official member of Papa Nico’s ‘inner circle’. I’ll explain it all later. Now go ahead and eat your pie.” I took one slice leaving the other for her.

We finished up the pie and I called Papa over to settle up the bill. “Jen, I’m dying to know how he saved the tray at the last possible instant.”

I winked at Papa and launched into an explanation. “You see, Peggy, Papa was a performer with the circus in the old country. Right Papa?”

“Right child. I was a great juggler!”

I picked up three apples from the basket of fruit on the table and tossed them one by one to Papa as he stood beside me. He caught them and started juggling them. He started into a little speech about juggling and the circus in the old country. Feeling kind of bored and letting my expression show it I reached over and snatched an apple out of his juggling rotation. He pretended not to notice and continued to juggle the two real apples plus a phantom one. I took a big bite out of the apple and tossed it back into the rotation.

I chewed the bite of the apple and swallowed. I did it several more times until all that remained was the core of the apple that I tossed back into the rotation. All the while Papa Nico was rattling on about juggling and what working in the circus was like in the old country. Deciding to make things a little more interesting, I grabbed the apple core and stuck in a banana from the fruit bowl into the rotation. Nico acted like he never noticed the change. Next I snagged another apple out and dumped an empty glass into the rotation. Again, absolutely no response from Nico. I grabbed the last apple and added an orange in its place. Nico never missed. By this time a small crowd of lunchtime customers had gathered around the table. Nico ended his little speech. “….and that’s how I learned to juggle three apples.” Never missing a beat he sat the glass on the table right side up, plopped the orange on the glass and added the banana balanced on top like a smile. He turned to me and was raising a finger to scold me when the laughter and applause erupted around us.

Peggy and the audience knew they had been “taken in” by our little performance and they really didn’t care. We both stood to take a bow then Nico scurried around to get everyone seated and their orders taken. After a run to the kitchen, he returned to our table. “Ah Jennifer, I haven’t done that routine in many years. Thank you for remembering!”

“Papa Nico, I would be honored if you would let me come back in a few Sundays to do a special performance with you for your customers. I had lots of fun doing the old routine just then. I think that with a few changes we could do all of our old routines. What do you think?”

“I would be glad to have you. Could I also ask you to sing for us?”

“I think that might be arranged. Let me check with some friends I have in a band to see if I can have them play for me. I’ll let you know in about 2 weeks and if they will play we can set a date then. Now what do I owe for this wonderful banquet and floor show?”

“Absolutely nothing my dear. You have brought such joy to me today that I can not properly express my thanks. It has been many years since I have had so much fun.”

“Nico my friend it was a pleasure. I look forward to coming back for a REAL performance with you.” I leaned over and gently kissed him on the cheek.

“Jennifer, If I was 50 years younger I might just run away with you. But I’m not and Mama has stolen my heart. Just don’t let her hear that. It might give her a big head.”

We heard a voice from the kitchen. “I heard that!”

He looked at me, I looked back at him and we both said in unison, “over 50 years married to the woman and how she does it I STILL don't know!" We all started laughing. Papa waved goodbye and Peggy and I headed back to the bank.

“So Peggy, What did you think of Nicola’s?”

“Very strange but very nice too. I absolutely have to come back here again.”

“I’m sure Papa will be very happy to see you. Remember that ‘inner circle’ thing I mentioned. That little thing with the pie was a sort of welcome to the club. It means that you are now one of his most valued customers and will be accorded a little special treatment whenever you visit the restaurant. Papa and I started the group years ago. There aren’t many members and Papa is very selective about who he will admit to the group. Remember when I asked for the pie slices?” Peggy nodded yes. “I asked using a certain combination of words. He answered using another combination of words so I knew what was going to happen. Papa is such a showman and likes to make the customers feel happy about visiting the place. That’s why years ago we worked out some comedy bits we used to do whenever we had a good crowd in the place. Since I moved away with the job at the College we haven’t been able to do much any more. That was the first time in many years we worked together like that. It sure felt great to be with Papa again and make people smile.”

“I really did like it and they both make you feel right at home. I have to bring my husband back here and let him experience it.”

“Papa is pretty good on his own and a visit there is great any time. Just wait until I can set up an evening or afternoon show with Papa. The place will be packed when the word gets out.”

“Let me know when that will happen ok, Jen?”

We arrived back at the bank and went in. James came and escorted us to his desk. “Jennifer, it looks like everything is all set. Let me get the paperwork, there are just a few more things to sign.” James returned after a few seconds.

“Let’s get this finished. Here is the paperwork you brought this morning. We made copies of the originals and are returning them to you for your records. Please do keep them in a safe place. If this ever comes up again you will need to have them. And here’s another stack to sign. Look for the red X.” He handed me another stack of papers. I took a few minutes and looked over each one and signed them as needed.

“There, I think I got everything. James, please double check these for me?”

He took the stack of paperwork back and leafed through them. “Looks like you missed one. The pages were stuck together.” He passed the form back to me. I read it over and then signed it. As I handed it back to him our fingers touched briefly. I felt a tingle race up my arm and I think I blushed a little. He looked at me and smiled then returned to examining the paperwork. I wondered what this new body was doing to my mind. I started to feel a little warm all over and immediately decided I needed to suppress these feelings. Taking a couple of deep breaths I forced back the signals my body was trying to send and placed my hands in my lap, the fingernails of one hand pressing into the palm of the other leaving deep red marks. After a few seconds I was able to regain my composure and asked him if that finished up the paperwork.

“Yes I believe that finishes everything. We may need you to come back for a visit when the large deposit is ready however.” He passed me a small envelope. “That is the $2000 you requested. Would you like someone to escort you to your vehicle for safety?”

“Yes, please. Peggy is with me but I think that an additional person or two would help.”

“Let me take care of this folder and I’ll be glad to see you out.” He got up and went over to an office to place the folder on another desk. “All set ladies, shall we go?”

Peggy and I walked to the door. James held it open as we walked through. We walked towards my truck. As we got near it, James spoke up. “Is this yours?”

“Yes, sort of large isn’t it?”

“I like it. Too bad it’s only 2 wheel drive though. Are you going to keep it since you’ve changed?”

“I think so. I’ll probably hang onto it and get small car or SUV to drive most of the time. There still some things I do where having a larger truck comes in handy.” I unlocked the truck. He reached over and opened the door then offered to take my hand to assist me in getting in. Not realizing what I was doing I placed my hand in his as he helped me up onto the seat. The tingle returned and my insides extremely felt strange. He closed the door after I fastened my seat belt.

“Jennifer, here is my business card. The extra number on it is my cell phone. If you need help, any time even after normal business hours, please do feel free to give me a call. OK?” I remember taking the card and placing it in my purse after thanking him for all of his help today. I started the engine as he turned to walk back towards the bank. The thought “Cute butt!” flashed in my mind as I watched him walk to the door. I shook my head to clear it then looked over at Peggy. She had a look of amusement on her face. “What?”

“Ok Jennifer, what do you just think happened there?”

“Something I’d rather not think about right now. All I’ll admit is that hormones are sure powerful things aren’t they?” Peggy just nodded her head and giggled to herself for a few minutes on our trip to Rebekkah’s salon.

Somewhere on that trip another chunk of my male mindset was reduced to rubble. I came to terms with what I felt and decided that it was entirely normal given the body I was now living in. There was no shame in looking at a man and thinking how handsome he looked or how nice a butt he had. After all I was a woman now and that was entirely normal. Why should I get upset over it? It was simply a part of my life now. I suspected that when I was finally ready for sex that I would know it and that the experience would be wonderful. I didn’t want to rush it but the thought no longer held the terror for me that it did only an hour or so ago.

“Peggy?”

“Yes””

“Thanks for giving me some time back there. I think I just made a major advancement in handling this. I don’t know if I want to go trolling for men right this moment but the thought isn’t as scary as it was only an hour ago. I think I might work most of this out on my own. It will just take some time.”

“Jennifer, I owe you an apology. I just saw the situation you were in and the totally absurd nature of what you’ve been through and I lost it. I shouldn’t have laughed at it. I’m sorry.”

“That’s ok, Peggy. If something like that happens again I’ll probably laugh right along with you. I just figured out that all of that was natural for a woman and I shouldn’t feel strange or ashamed of it. It’s just a part of who I am. I may welcome the attention of a man some day. Right now, it’s still a little too close to my transformation for me to feel totally at ease with the concept. I still remember all to well what I felt as a man when I looked at a beautiful woman. Only time will heal that wound. At least time helped when my mom passed away 5 years ago. I still think of her but over time the anguish I feel gets less every day.”

“Jen, I still wonder how you’re able to adapt to all that has happened to you so fast. Are you really sure you’re ok with what has happened so far? Would you like to arrange for another appointment for help?”

“I’ll be fine. We’re almost at the salon. Are you ready for that makeover?”

“I sure am. I haven’t had one in years.”

“Just remember, Peggy, anything you want. This one is my treat.”

“Thanks, Jen!”

We got out of the truck in front of the salon and opened the front door. “There she is!” I looked towards the back of the room and saw Bekkie running up to greet me. We exchanged the usual hugs and walked to the back of the place to get started.

“Jen, we really do need to do something about that hair. The fire didn’t help it at all.”

“I did wash it twice this morning, Bekkie. I didn’t use conditioner since I knew I was coming here. There’s no hair spray or anything else on it either. I’ll put myself in your hands on one condition. I want to keep the style I had yesterday, at least the ponytail type thing. It feels right and it should be easy for me to take care of until I can get a little more used to all of this. I also DON’T want long fingernails. I still have to do lots of stuff with my hands and long nails don’t work too well in my job. Think you can handle that?”

“AWWW, you’re not much fun! Yes I can handle that. I have some of the newspapers here with pictures of you so I think I know what you asking for. We’ll do your fingernails and toenails and use a clear coat sealer on them. And I’ll see what we can do about a little makeup for your face.”

“Not too much, Bekkie. I promise that on my next trip I’ll turn you loose to give me a new look. It’s just that right now I’m still getting used to this one! I’d like you to take care of my friend too. This is Peggy Thompson. She was one of the nurses that took care of me in the hospital and she’s agreed to help me adapt for the next couple of weeks. I want you to give her anything she wants.”

“Pleased to meet you Peggy. We’ll get you set up in another chair in a couple of minutes. Right Now I want to get started on Jennifer here.”

“Bekkie, please call me Jennie or Jen?”

“OK, Jen, look this way and smile.”

I looked up at her and smiled just as a flash went off in my eyes. “HEY! What’s that all about!”

“That’s the before picture silly. I want you to see the difference when we’re finished with you!” It was one of those digital cameras. Bekkie connected it to her PC and downloaded the picture. She left it on the screen and printed a color copy on her inkjet printer.

She started by washing my hair again with some special shampoo. It felt very good and soon I relaxed. In fact I relaxed way too much and fell asleep in the chair as they worked on me. I woke up almost an hour later with Bekkie gently shaking my shoulder. “You were out of it there for a while? You ok now?”

“Yes, I just got relaxed and drifted off.”

“I think the events of the past few weeks took more out of you than you’re willing to admit.”

“You know, Bekkie, I think you are right. I just want to get back to something resembling the way it used to be. I’m only now finding out that my life can never even be close to the way it used to be. “

“From when I knew you before to seeing you now I think you’ve done a great job adapting so far. Just keep working at it and you’ll be fine. While you were taking your ‘beauty sleep’ we finished your nails and got the hair washed, conditioned and dried. We need you awake for the rest of it.”

“Well I’m certainly awake now. Can we finish my hair first?”

“Yes. I got this ponytail clip for you. It should make it easier for you to do this yourself. I’ll put it up this time. There’s a mirror there so you can see what I’m doing.” She took her comb and started forming the ponytail. I watched as she put the clip in just the right spot on the hair and then used a brush to widen out the rest of the ponytail.

“Thanks, Bekkie, that looks great! You said you wanted me to try a little makeup. I think I can handle that so let’s try it. Nothing really fancy OK?”

“That’s fine.” She reached over and turned the mirror away so I couldn’t see myself.”

“Hey! I wanted to watch!”

“Just let me try a couple of things first then I’ll let you look at the finished product. Close your eyes for a few minutes.”

I did as asked and felt several brushes and other assorted devices of female torture used on my face. I was instructed to scrunch up my lips a few times then I was asked to lick them. The taste of what I assumed to be lipstick was different but not altogether unpleasant. Maybe if I could get one in strawberry flavor I would get used to it.

“OK, Jen, Open those eyes now.”

I knew the face looking back at me in the mirror was my own. The difference was striking however. I looked a few years older and considerably more sophisticated. The few freckles I had noticed on the bridge of my nose and cheeks were gone and my eyelashes and eyebrows looked fuller. My lips were a glossy red color. I noticed that my ears now had a single gold stud inserted in each earlobe. Bekkie must have done that while I was asleep. How in the world I didn’t wake up for that I’ll never know.

“Thanks Bekkie. I do like it. Can you write down what you used for me? I’d like to get some so I can try this at home.”

“I sell what I used so I’ll put together a kit for you. Let me go get Peggy.”

I waited in the chair. A few minutes later Peggy came in looking fantastic. Her hair had been shortened some from how I remembered it and she had a complete manicure and makeup job. “Peggy, that looks incredible. You clean up alright!”

“You’re not so bad yourself either! Ready to do some serious shopping?”

“Yes, Peggy, I think I am. But I think I’d like to cut it short for today though and just get the basic stuff I’ll need for the next day or so. We can always make a day of it tomorrow with the shopping.”

“Then that’s what we’ll do. I’m glad we made that list.”

“Let me settle up with Rebekkah and we’ll get started back to the city.”

I met Bekkie at the register as she was totaling up the bill for the day. She handed me a copy. I didn’t even flinch at the price. I just pulled out the money from my wallet and handed it to her. “Thanks Rebekkah, I’ll be back in another 2 weeks or so. I have to go to an award ceremony and I’ll need your help to get me looking my best for it. It’s a formal affair so I’ll give you a chance to fix me up then. And thanks for doing Peggy too!”

“I’ll see you then. Just call ahead so I reserve space for you on the schedule.”

We hugged each other and waved goodbye as Peggy and I walked back to the truck. The ride back was pretty quiet each of us lost in our own thoughts. I actually liked this look and realized my self-image had shifted even more when I looked in that mirror. What was a good looking young lady suddenly became a mature beautiful woman with just a little makeup added to enhance the way I already looked. Another chunk of my old male mindset crumbled.

Peggy spoke as we entered the city again. “Jen, Would you like me to just grab some things so you can hang out for a while in the truck?”

“No, I need to get used to doing these things myself because I won’t have someone around to do it for me after you go back to the hospital. Helping me is only temporary and you can make a large difference in someone’s care there. I’m just one person and other than some mental problems which are rapidly sorting themselves out I’m as healthy as they come.”

“Then let’s head over to the mall first. We’ll get your groceries last so the cold stuff doesn’t spoil in the truck while we’re shopping.”

“Does it matter which mall?”

“Not really. Most of them will have the kinds of stores we’ll need to visit.”

“Then let’s head for the largest one in the area. If I can survive all of the attention I’m likely to get from a trip there then I’ll be fine. Just keep an eye on me. If it looks like I’m loosing it get me out of there and back to the truck fast. Ok, Peggy?”

“If that’s what you want its fine with me. I just think you’re going a little too fast but you know better than I do what you’re prepared to deal with. I do have to warn you that that mall is considered by the male population in this city to be the best spot to hit on women. You’ll get a lot of men looking at you and attempting to pick you up unless possibly they have been watching the news and are turned off by what you were before.”

“I think you would have to live in a cave not to have heard something about me over the last three weeks. It might be a sure sign of a Neanderthal if he hasn’t at least had the education to read the paper or even turn on the television or radio once in a while!"

I headed the truck across town to the largest, fanciest mall in the area. I got lucky and got a parking spot not too far from one of the main entrances. A quick check in the mirror again and we locked up and went into the mall. I do have to admit that it was a different experience walking in as a woman. I noticed lots of heads turning as I went past. Sure most were male but an almost equal number were other women and children that possibly recognized me from news. Everyone was friendly and smiled and waved. I must confess that I felt good waving and smiling back. How long that might last I didn’t know but it did look like most people were honoring my request for some breathing room. I didn’t allow for the fact that I could run into some other public event covered by the press and get involved in it though. I nudged Peggy and we stopped for a moment.

“Jen, it looks like there might be trouble doesn’t it?”

“It does. I might as well get this over with now though.” A young man dressed in one of the mall’s assistant uniforms was headed our way. I had not known that the mall was hosting the area’s All-City High School Science Fair final competition today. The main concourse of the mall was packed with exhibits and local high school students. It was also packed with local television, radio, and newspaper reporters covering the event.

He walked directly towards us waving as he got closer. “Hello, are you Jennifer Stevens and is this Peggy Thompson?”

“Yes, guilty as charged.”

The kid took a deep breath almost as if he expected to get in trouble just talking to me. “Our public relations director would like to speak with both of you. Is that all right with you?”

“Yes that is fine with me. How about you, Peggy?”

“Yes, Jen, that’s fine with me. We’ll wait over there on one of the seats.”

“Thank you. I’ll tell him where you are and he should be over in a few minutes.” He waded back into the crowd at the Science Fair and was out of sight in seconds.

“Well, Peggy, I wonder what I’ve gotten us into now. Let’s go have a seat and see what happens.”

“I’m right behind you.”

We made ourselves comfy on the bench. After a few minutes a well-dressed man walked towards us. “Do you ladies come to the mall often?”

I replied, “No this is my first time here.”

“Would you like to go to the food court for something to eat and maybe something a little more intimate later? I do have a room near here.”

I motioned for him to lean down and I whispered in his ear. After listening to my comment he straightened up looking very pale and simply walked away. “Jen, what did you say to him?”

“I told him that I just got out of the hospital. I said the doctor told me not to have any sex for a few weeks and that I needed to be sure to finish my anti-biotic. I told him if he wanted to see if I was still contagious I’d be happy to party a little with him!”

“Oh that’s cruel, Jen. I’m proud of you! You handled that very well! I see we have another visitor headed our way.”

Another man dressed in casual attire sat down on the bench beside us. I noticed a mall security badge that identified him as Adam Tilton. “Hello ladies, I’d Adam Tilton the public relations director for the mall. I’m pleased to have two distinguished people in our mall.”

“Quick point them out to me PLEASE! I’d love to meet some celebrities!” I faked looking around the mall to see where they were.

“My dad said you had a great sense of humor even as a man. I see that it survived the transformation very well. I you may not know me directly but you probably know my dad. He’s Edgar Tilton and you worked for him at his electronics repair place back in our hometown.”

“Yes I do remember him. How’s the old curmudgeon doing these days?”

“Retired from the fix-it business but he’s still going strong. In fact he called me a while ago. News of your visit back there this morning is all over town at home.”

“I should have known. So what can I do for you or did you just want to say hello, Adam?”

“Actually there is something you can do for us — The Science Fair kids that is. One of the students recognized you from last night. Seems he was one of the kids on the bus. We have 5 survivors including girl you pulled out of the bus here today. The kids wanted me to ask if both of you could present the awards at the end of the judging today. I know you didn’t intend to get involved with things like this early in your recovery but it would mean so much to the kids and the community in general. Could you possibly do it?”

“Could you give us a few minutes to talk it over in private please?”

“Certainly. I’ll be back in about 5 minutes. I need to check on something.” He got up and headed off towards some of the stores in the mall.

“What do you think, Peggy. Should we do it?”

“That’s entirely up to you, Jen. I don’t have any plans for this afternoon or evening that would prevent it.”

“How do I get myself into these things anyway? I’ll probably get labeled as a ‘stuck-up bitch’ by the media if I don’t go through with the ceremony. ‘A Stuck-up bitch’, now there’s a term I never thought I would hear as a potential description of myself! If I do go through with it though I have a better chance to control the ‘damage’ and maybe get some good press out of it for the school system’s science program. I know they’ve been running short on funds and I might be able to put some pressure on the school board to do better in the next budget.”

“Jen, it sounds like you’ve made your decision already. I’m in if you are.”

“Then I’ll tell Adam we will be happy to participate when he gets back.”

“I need to make a ladies room trip and since one of us has to be here when he gets back it looks like you’re elected. Will you be ok?”

“Go ahead, Peggy. I think I’m safe here for a little while. The security staff is pretty large today because of the Science Fair.” She nodded and made a beeline for the nearest restrooms.

A couple of minutes later Adam returned. “Have you reached a decision?”

“Yes, Peggy and I will be glad to help. She’s off at the ladies room and will be right back.”

Adam smiled. “I just made some arrangements with a couple of stores in the mall. If you and Peggy want to get dressed up for the occasion, I’ve asked some of the stores to provide some clothes for both of you. Our master of ceremonies will be wearing a tuxedo so you should look dressed for the occasion. Is that ok with you?”

“I did have to do some shopping anyway. None of my old clothes will work any more. Paying for a new wardrobe isn’t a problem but I would like the help of the stores in picking out some nice things.”

“Then it’s all set. The award ceremony is at 7 PM. It’s around 4 PM now so you should have some time to shop and get ready for the ceremony.” The radio on his belt suddenly came alive. “KJ2RWS this is KQ3ACE, are you around Adam?”

“Jen, hold on a moment?”

“OK.”

He took the radio of his belt. “KQ3ACE this is KJ2RWS, what’s going on Sam?”

“Adam, the NWS says that there’s a good chance for some severe thunderstorms tonight. We might need to activate SKYWARN tonight. Are you available?”

“Not until after about 8 PM, Sam. I have an event at the mall.”

“I understand. I’ll add you to the list if we go later than that.”

Adam and Sam talked for a few minutes. While they were chatting, I took a good look at Adam. As a guess, I’d say he was in his late twenties. He had medium length wavy brown hair. His eyes were a deep green and they seemed to twinkle when he smiled. For me at least, his smile lit up the entire mall. He had broad shoulders and muscular arms. From what I could see, he had a flat stomach almost devoid of any extra fat. I was pondering what he looked like naked when a blast of static from his radio jarred me back to reality. I had to shake my head a little to clear those lingering thoughts. It sounded like his conversation was coming to an end.

“Adam, I have to go and contact a few more people just in case we’re needed. KJ2WRS, KQ3ACE clear”

“KJ2WRS clear.” A digitized voice came on briefly. “N2JEU repeater. Severe thunderstorm storm watch until 11 PM tonight.”

“Sorry for the interruption Jennifer. I’m an amateur radio operator and that was one of my friends asking about the SKYWARN group tonight.”

“I understand Adam. I don’t think we’ve been properly introduced. I’m Jennifer and my ham call is N2JEU.” I held out my hand as Adam’s face lit up with a big smile.

He shook my hand and I felt a tingle all over. A warm very pleasant sensation started somewhere in my middle. “Pleased to meet you! I heard on the repeater that the owner/trustee was ill but I didn’t know it was you. The control ops have been doing a great job of keeping it going while you’ve been in the hospital.”

“I’ve been so busy the last few days that I haven’t even turned on one of the rigs at home to check on things. I’ll have to get on the air and thank them a little later. Judging by your call you’re new to the hobby. How long have you been a ham?”

“I’ve only had my Technician license for three weeks. I got into the SKYWARN program a few days after my license came. It’s been fun but I really haven’t been out much yet.”

“Well maybe when there’s a call-up we’ll go out together. I have a portable weather station and other equipment I add to my truck for those occasions and it takes two people to operate everything. Are you any good with computers?”

“I built a couple of my own from parts. I also do some VB6 programming.”

“I think you’ll do. On the weekend, you can come over and we’ll run over the setup in the truck so you’ll feel comfortable with it before we get in a crisis situation. Make sure you get my home number and address before I get out of here. If I don’t remember to give it to you just yell for me on the repeater. If I’m not monitoring one of the control ops will give me a call to let me know you’re looking for me. And please call me Jen or Jennie ok?”

“Thanks, Jen, I think I’d like that very much. Getting back to the awards this afternoon though, since you’ll be here much longer than you figured, dinner is on the mall. Just meet me near the carousel in the food court and I’ll take care of everything! Oh, and here comes Peggy now.”

“Peggy, it took you long enough!”

“There was quite a line, Jen. What’s the verdict?”

“Jen says that you two will help out with the awards. I’ve arranged for a couple of our stores to provide you two with some better formal clothes for the occasion. I’ll also arrange for dinner. Let me get you started with the clothes, Jen knows where to meet me for supper.”

“Thanks, Adam. Lead the way!”

Adam and I got up and we followed him to the largest woman’s wear store in the entire mall. He took us right to the manager and introduced us. Her name was Beth Stanton and she seemed thrilled that she was going to be able to showcase some of her clothes on us for the awards. I had my doubts that I was ready for this but I decided that it was something that I was going to have to face sometime. I had just hoped now wasn’t going to be that time. Was I ever wrong!

“I’m so pleased that Adam has come to us for help for you two. Let’s see what we can do for you today. I need to have you go back to our fitting rooms and strip down to your bras and panties. I need to get proper measurements.”

I looked over at Peggy and shrugged. I had agreed to do this so I had to go through with it. It was just another thing I had to adapt to living as a woman. I decided that if other women could do it so could I. We walked back to the changing rooms and proceeded to undress. A few moments later I heard a knock on my door. “Yes?”

“Its Beth, Can I come in and get your measurements now?”

“Yes, come in.”

“Do you have any idea what your measurements are?”

“No, not really. I think you may be aware of my situation though. I just haven’t had time to have them done properly.”

“Yes, everyone in the store knows who you are. So let’s get started. Hmmm… Nice figure. Not too much on top and just the right amount in back. Loose the bra please.” I blushed at the thought of taking off the bra in front of her. “Come on now. I’ve seen these things thousands of times. Yours aren’t anything special you know!”

I took off the bra and set it aside on the chair. She used her tape measure and announced that she thought I was a 36C at least and possibly a 36D. She said I needed to try both sizes to see which was more comfortable. Next, the tape went around my waist. The measurement there was 22 inches. I thought I looked larger but the tape doesn’t lie I guess. My hips were last and came in at a solid 34 inches. She handed me a robe and said she would be back in a few minutes with some things for me to try on.
As she was leaving Peggy came in also wearing a robe. “How are you holding up so far, Jen? I wanted to be sure to check on you.”

“I’m doing fine so far. That may change depending on what I have to wear. I’m going to keep an open mind about it though so don’t worry too much about me, Peggy.”

“So what are your measurements? Mine are still 36D-24-36.”

“We’re pretty close. I’m 36C-22-34. A little narrower at the waist and hips than you.”

“Wait until you’re a few years older. You’ll start to look more like me.”

“Peggy, I thought you were around your early thirties. How old are you anyway if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I’m almost 45 and proud of it. How do I look?” She dropped her robe open to show firm breasts and a tight tummy with very little fat on her hips and thighs.

“Pretty good. How about me?” I opened my robe without really thinking about it. After all, we’re just two women comparing our figures.

“You look good too. Nice pair there and a good butt too. Those legs will have every guy for miles around drooling.” There was a knock on the door. Peggy and I closed out robes as she opened the door. It was Beth with an armload of stuff. Another woman was standing behind her waiting for Peggy.

“Ok ladies we need to get moving here.” Peggy left for the other changing room and Beth entered with the load of clothes.

“Here try this first and let me know how it fits.” She handed me a new bra. I put it on and adjusted it some. It felt much better than the one I had been wearing. “How does it fit?”

“It feels fine. Better than the one I wore in here in fact. What size is this one?”

“It’s the 36D. Now try this one.”

I changed into the other bra noting that it had no shoulder straps. This one made my breasts look a little fuller and showed much more cleavage. “This must be the 36C.”

“It is. I suggest using the 36D for daily wear. You can use the 36C when you want to dress up a bit and look a little sexier. How about you stay in the 36C for today?”

“Are you sure? This IS supposed to be a formal thing. I don’t want to look too sexy in front of a bunch of teenage boys you know!”

“With what I have in mind for you for tonight it will look just fine.”

“I’ll just have to go with your instincts. I don’t have the fashion sense I need right now. Just don’t make me into a man-magnet OK?”

“It’s already too late for that, Jennifer. Nature has done all of that work already. I can’t even dress you down that easily. You’ll always look great even in a potato sack!”

I sat down hard on the chair shaking. “Why did this have to happen to me?” Beth quietly slipped out the door, moments later Peggy appeared in her robe.

“Jen, things getting to you again?”

“Yea, Peggy. I just realized what I got myself into this time and it scares hell out of me. Maybe I just should have told them no and gone about my business.”

“Jen, you can’t beat yourself up about this. If an event like this one hadn’t happened now it surely would have happened in two weeks when you and I have to go to the mayor’s presentation of the medals. I suggest you suck it up and get with it. This is a great chance to try things out without the pressures of the most formal event you’re likely to ever attend. This is just a kid’s award ceremony for Gods sake. Nobody expects you or anyone else to be perfect. Just go with the flow and ENJOY IT!” Peggy sat down in another chair next to me and we hugged until my shaking stopped.

“You’re right as usual, Peggy. Just be here for me will you?”

“I’ll be right next door. They’ll come and get me if you need me. Now let’s get back to dressing.” She quietly left the room. Beth returned after a minute or so.

“Feeling better now?” I sniffled and nodded. “Sorry about all this but I just don’t know an easy way to buffer the shock this is causing you. Let’s just get it over with. I think when you see how you look your whole attitude will change. OK?”

“What’s next?”

She picked a pair of sheer panty hose from the pile. “Take off your panties and put these on. They have a panty built into them so you won’t need the ones you’re wearing now. Do you want me to leave for a minute?”

“No, please stay. I need to get used to this that’s all.” I pulled my panties off and placed them on the edge of the chair. I sat down on them and slowly worked the panty hose over my legs like I heard my mom tell my sister to do so many times. Now I know why some women put panty hose on over both legs at the same time. It’s just easier that way since they’re so stretchy. I got them up to my thighs then stood up to work them up the rest of the way. They followed the curves of my legs and hips like a second skin. It’s a good thing that I hadn’t developed any leg hair yet. My legs were smooth this morning and I didn’t need to shave them. The shine on the panty hose made my legs almost sparkle.

“Nice aren’t they? They’re a special type we sell that has a sort of a glitter effect built in.”

“They do look great and the feeling is incredible. I could get to like them.”

“You won’t like panty hose in the warmer weather but you’ll find that out for yourself. That takes care of the underwear. Now try this on.” She handed me what looked like a tube of red stretch material with a couple of string straps at one end. The zipper was open and I assumed that it was at the back of what looked to be a dress. I fumbled with it for a moment. Beth giggled a little. “Let me help you with that. This is the first time in a dress isn’t it?” I just nodded with a glum look on my face. I really wasn’t pleased at the direction this whole thing was taking.

“The easiest way to put this on is to step into it. Your hips are smaller than your bustline so doing it the other way will be harder.” I stepped into the dress and pulled it up around my waist. I worked the top of the dress up and put my arms through the straps. I snuggled the dress back down around my breasts and hips. She went around behind me to zip me up. I was facing away from the mirror on the back of the door. Beth put her hand over my eyes and slowly turned me around to face the mirror. “Ready?”

“No but let’s do this anyway.” She pulled her hand away and I slowly opened my eyes.

My jaw dropped open at what I saw. The image was that of a very confident young woman nearly ready for an evening out on the town. The red dress fit every curve I had like a glove. It was a good thing the pantyhose had a built-in panty otherwise there would have been a very large panty line. The dress stopped a good 5 inches above my knees on one end and just above the bra on the other leaving an ample display of my breasts and cleavage. The straps ensured that the dress wouldn’t slip down to reveal any more than it did already. The pantyhose made my legs gleam in the light. Beth gently reached up and closed my mouth. “Well what do you think?”

“I look incredible! I’m displaying quite a bit more cleavage and thigh than I really wanted to but it does look very nice. I don’t know what to say.”

“I’ll take that as a Thank You. Now let’s go out and get you some accessories for that outfit. We’ll need some jewelry and some shoes. Think you can handle some high heels?”

“Not if my life depended on it. I’ve never even been in them before. Maybe if the heels were wide so I had some stability?”

“We’ll give that a try. Get your stuff and put it in this bag.” I gathered up my clothes and dumped everything into the bag she provided. “We’ll store this here for you for when you’re done if you want.”

“Yes that would be a big help. I also want to make sure you know I’m paying for everything Peggy and I use here today. I need clothes anyway and I had intended on shopping here before Adam shanghaied us.”

“If that’s the way you want it. Adam had arranged for us to bill the mall for the dresses and other stuff as a surprise for you two.”

“I’ll have to thank him. Let’s do it that way but I still want to get a lot of stuff here. How late are you open tonight?

“We’re open until 10 PM. If you have the time though I would suggest you come back tomorrow during the day. You’ll have more time to try outfits on. We got lucky fitting you today. Normally it isn’t quite so easy to find clothes that fit just right.”

“I’ll do that then. I have a feeling that by the end of this event I’ll be ready for another hot bath and bed in that order.”

“Peggy is nearly ready so let’s get you finished. Put on your sandals and we’ll get you some shoes next.” I slipped them on and followed her out into the store to the show department. I looked at the selection and got lost in the bewildering array of styles and sizes. “What size do you wear?”

I roused out of my mental fog long enough to answer. “Hmmmm?”

“Do you know what size you wear?”

“Sorry not a clue. We’ll have to measure I guess.”

A woman came over with a measuring device. “Please have a seat. And get out of those sandals.” She placed my foot in the device and made a few adjustments. “Looks like a size 7 to me. Let me get something to try.” She left for a few moments and came back carrying several boxes. “These are size 7 with a wide heel 2 inches high. Let’s see if you can handle them.”

I put the shoes on and stood up feeling a little wobbly in them. I tried to take a few steps in them and found that with a little practice I should be able to handle them. It sure felt different walking in them. Even just the extra two inches on the heel forced a different stride when I walked making my hips sway more on every step. “I think these will do for today. Can I just try the same height with a narrow heel please?”

“I have them right here.” I walked back over to the chair and changed into the narrow heel version of the same shoe. I went to stand up and almost fell over flat on my face. Beth caught my arm just before I completely lost my balance.

“I don’t think they’re going to work for tonight do you?”

“I guess not. I’ll take the others please.” I sat back down again and changed back into the wider heels. I smiled up at Beth. “Where to next?”

“The jewelry counter of course. Let’s go!” I nodded my thanks to the woman that helped with the shoes and followed Beth across the store to the largest assortment of jewelry I’d ever seen. She looked at my ears. “Looks like your ears were just pierced. We’ll leave them alone. I think some type of necklace or ring is needed. Here’s what we have, see anything you like?”

I looked in the display case. My eyes were drawn immediately to a small silver heart shaped ring. Tiny jewels in an incredible array of colors were set against a black background with a few white lines weaving through it. The stones looked to be set in an almost random pattern. “May I look at that one please?” I indicated the ring.

Beth removed it from the case. “This is a very old piece. The jewels are one each of the birthstones. The black background is onyx and has a pure silver setting and band. You’re welcome to borrow this for the night but we do need it back unless you intend to buy it. The cost is around $10,500. It is very old and is as far as we know the only one in existence. There is an inscription on the back but no one has ever been able to decipher it. It was obtained by one of our buyers in the orient a few months ago.”

I took the ring in my hand. The jewels seemed to sparkle with an inner light of their own and the slightly larger garnet stone seemed to positively be on fire. As I looked at the onyx background I felt as if I was floating in the black inky coolness of space with the narrow white tendrils running through the stone appearing as thin wisps of gas connecting the colored galaxies represented by the different jewels. I floated there for what felt like eternity then snapped back to reality as Peggy vigorously shook my shoulder. “Jen, earth to Jen, Are you in there?”

“Oh, sorry, Peggy. I just got lost in thought looking at it. Can you see the sparkle in the jewels? The larger one looks like it’s glowing from the inside!”

“Jen, you weren’t lost in thought you were totally frozen for at least two minutes. They came to get me because you wouldn’t respond to anyone else.” Peggy looked at the ring. “It looks very nice but the only sparkle or glow I see is from the lights in the room.”

“This looks so beautiful that I just got lost in it. I HAVE to have this. Peggy, can you go and get my purse for me please? I don’t want to let this out of my sight.”

“If you say so, Jen.”

“Thanks, Peggy.” She left for the changing rooms to get the purse.

“Are you sure you want to buy this?” It was Beth asking as she came back from attending to some other business.

“Beth, I have NEVER been so certain of something in all my life. It’s like this was made especially for me. I have no means to explain the feeling I get when I look at it.”

“If that’s what you want. Please try it on so we can see if the band needs size modifications."

“If I’m right this will fit exactly.” As I slipped the ring on my finger I felt a tingle run through my body. It felt as though the ring adjusted itself to my finger for a perfect fit. “I’ll take it just like it is. Here’s my credit card and some ID you’ll need.”

“I’ll take care of this right now.” She headed towards a register and credit card terminal.

“What do you think, Peggy.”

“I have to admit, Jen, the ring looks very nice.”

“I really can’t explain it but I think this is supposed to be mine. It’s like an old friend has come home. I just can’t describe the joy it brings to me.”

“I understand. How do you like my outfit?” I looked at Peggy. She had on a duplicate of the dress I was wearing except hers was a deep blue color.

“Looks like we’re an almost matched pair. I like it!”

“Thanks, Jen. You look great too! Are you sure you’re OK with how you look in this dress?”

“Yes, Peggy I’m fine with all of this.” Peggy got a worried look on her face.

Beth returned with some paperwork. “Well, the ring is yours now. Here’s the receipt for the transaction. Will you sign this one for our records? Please use both your old name and your new name on our copy.”

I signed the forms and never looked at the price. Peggy looked at the slip as she put it in my purse. “My God, Jen, are you sure about this? Over ten thousand dollars! It takes me almost 3 months to make that much before taxes!”

“Peggy, I was never more sure of anything in my entire life. All 45 years of it! This feels right and I’m not going to question it. In fact, I’m going to head back to the shoe department and get some proper heels!” I went back to the shoe department with Peggy following me. I located the woman that had helped earlier. “Can I try some high heels again?”

“It’s your broken ankles. What would you like to try?”

“Let me try a size 7 with a 5 inch spike heel please.”

“Are you really sure?”

“Yes, I’ll be over by the chairs.” About 2 minutes later she came back with a single box. She opened the box and handed me the shoes. I took off the old shoes and put on the new ones. I got up and walked about 20 feet, turned around and walked back without stumbling or any sign of loosing my balance. I handed the wide heels back to the woman and thanked her for her help. She looked at me with her mouth open shaking her head as I was walking away. Peggy was doing pretty much the same thing. She came to her senses and ran after me.

“Jen, what the hell happened there? Not ten minutes ago you could not walk in ANY narrow heeled shoe. Now you’re an expert in 5-inch high stilettos! You’re scaring me!”

“Peggy, for the first time in this whole miserable affair and the past 45 years I feel complete. No doubts about who and what I am, absolutely no problems with going out dressed like this in public, and a deep inner peace that I never had as a man. I don’t fully understand what has happened to me yet but I’m sure that the answers will come. Please don’t worry about me or be afraid for me. I’m fine, for the first time in my life, I’m really, truly fine. Now come on, we’ve got an award ceremony to attend after dinner!”

Peggy sighed and nodded her agreement. I located Beth near the back of the store. “Beth, Thanks for all of the help you’ve been to Peggy and I. I will be back after the ceremony to get our things and I will be back tomorrow to finish buying that new wardrobe.”

“Jen, you’re missing one thing. You need a scent. Let’s go over to the cosmetics counter and you can select something. What are your favorite scents?”

“I like strawberries, lilacs and roses. Oh and raspberries too!”

“I think we have just the thing. Try this.” She picked up a sample bottle and sprayed a little in the air when we got near the counter.

“Mmmmm…Roses! I like it. Just the right fragrance and not overpowering. I’ll take it! Peggy would you like something?”

“No thanks, I’m all set. I brought my own.” She got a small bottle out of her purse and sprayed a little on her neck and wrists. I did the same with a bottle Beth handed to me.

“There, now you two are all set. Now get going or you’ll never get dinner!”

“Thanks, Beth, you’ve been a great help. We’ll be back!”

We both headed for the food court. It was one floor up and about half way down the mall. We walked over to the nearest escalator. I stepped on with Peggy following me. Male heads followed our ride down the escalator as they went up. Many more male heads tracked our movements as we walked down the hall towards the food court. I walked with my head held high, my hips swaying with every step.

“Jen, doesn’t all this attention bother you any more?”

“Not at all, Peggy. It’s just a part of who and what I’ve become. I accept it. The only thing I have reservations about is the dating thing. I’m still not completely ready for that yet but I’m sure that will change too.”

“Jen, you truly amaze me. How do you do it?”

I opened my mouth and in unison we said “I don’t know, I just do it.” We both giggled all the rest of the way to the food court. As we got near the carousel a man in a tuxedo started waving at us. “Peggy, There’s the master of ceremonies. Let’s go meet him!”

As we walked closer the man in the tux turned out to be Adam! As we got closer I smiled and commented, “Wow, you cleaned up nice. Does your girl friend know you can look this good?” Peggy’s jaw almost dropped to the floor at my comment.

Adam blushed a little. “I just moved into the area a few months ago. I don’t have a steady girl friend yet.”

“Adam, I have to be honest with you, I’m sure you’re aware what I’ve been through recently.” He nodded. “Then I’m sure you also realize I’m still adjusting to the change. I’m not quite ready for dating yet but I would very much like to have you for a friend. Is that agreeable to you?”

“Of course, Jennifer. I respect your need for time in your recovery. I would also like to have you as a friend. If something else should develop that would be most agreeable too. If I ever do anything to upset you, please let me know immediately. OK?”

“Ok, Adam, fair enough. Let’s go eat. I’m hungry!” He offered me his right arm and Peggy his left. We both accepted by wrapping an arm around his and moving towards the serving area. Many heads, both male and female, followed our movements. We reached a clear table and Adam invited us to have a seat. I sat down smoothing my dress under me and crossing my legs at the knees by reflex. Peggy did the same giving me a wink of approval.

“Ladies, what will you have? Like your outfits tonight, this is on the mall management. Peggy?”

“I’ll have a small salad from the Chinese place over there. That’s the salad with the water chestnuts, bamboo shoots and other oriental veggies. I’ll also have a medium diet soda please.”

“Jen, how about you?”

“I probably shouldn’t but I’ll have my favorite. The Cajun place over there has the best Bourbon Chicken in the area. I’d like the Cajun pasta and home fries with it please. And a medium ice water too.”

“That’s a small Chinese salad and a medium diet soda and the Bourbon Chicken with pasta and fries and a medium water?” We both nodded in agreement. “You stay right there. I’ll get it.”

Adam went for the salad first then headed for the Cajun place after bringing the salad back to the table. He brought back two servings of the chicken from the Cajun place. “Having the chicken too I see?”

“Yes, Jen. I’m crazy about it. I never had it until I started working here a few months ago. I try not to have it too much though since I like to keep it as a treat now and then. I figured tonight was a treat night. Go ahead and dig in.”

I picked up a paper napkin and tucked it in the top of my dress drooping down the front. Peggy and Adam gave me a questioning look. “I don’t want to get any on the dress. This stuff may be good but it can stain like crazy on some materials. I’m not taking any chances with this.”

“You know, Jen, I didn’t think of that. This tux is a rental for tonight. I’d better cover it too!” He also placed a napkin in a strategic spot to prevent the noodles of the pasta from hitting the coat of the tux. “I remember what the juice from the chicken did to one of my white shirts one day when I got careless.”

We all ate in silence for a few minutes. Adam was the first to speak as we finished our meal. “Well ladies, we do need to talk briefly about the award ceremony. What I would like to do is to have one or both of you make a small speech to the crowd and then stand by for pictures as the awards are announced. We would also like you to visit the exhibits and take some pictures with the winners at their display area. It that alright?”

“That sounds good to me. Peggy, do you want to make the speech this time?”

“No, Jen. I had my chance yesterday on the local news. It’s your turn now.”

“Alright then, I can handle that. Adam, how long should the speech be?”

“Two to four minutes sounds about right to me, maybe less depending on what you want to say.”

“Would it be proper to put in a ‘plug’ for more money from the school board for science and technology in the schools?”

“If you can do it in a way that sounds positive and doesn’t get the mall or yourself in trouble, yes that would be fine.”

“That’s how I’ll do it. Shall we get going to the ceremony? It would be nice to have a few minutes to use the ladies room and look at the exhibits.”

“Let me clear these trays and we’ll get going.” Adam collected our trays and paper cups and returned things to their proper places. Peggy and I made our way to the ladies room.

“I always wondered why women seemed to go to the ladies room in pairs. Is there a reason for that Peggy?”

“Maybe it has something to do with safety in numbers.” We arrived at the door and I went in with Peggy following closely behind.

As I was entering a stall to take care of business, I heard someone yell at me. “WHAT ARE YOU DOINT HERE?” I looked up to see an older woman scowling at me.

“The same as you are I imagine. What else would you do in a restroom?”

“I want you out of here now. You’re a disgusting freak. How dare you come in here!”

“In case you haven’t noticed, I have nowhere else to go. I can hardly go into the men’s room looking like this now can I?”

“You’re just using it as an excuse to peep at us aren’t you?” If she was a snake, I think she would have spit some venom at me just then.

“If I wanted to look at a woman’s body all I have to do is strip and stand in front of a mirror. Why ANYONE would want to look at that shriveled up old body of your puzzles me greatly.”

“WELL! A proper lady would NEVER have said things like that!”

“Ma’am, I’m doing my very best to act as a proper lady, something I can safely say you are NOT. If you have a problem with my being here you are more than welcome to take it up with the mall’s public relations person. He’s right outside in the food court area waiting for me. He’s wearing a tuxedo so you can’t possibly miss him. Now if you’ll excuse me I’ve almost waited too long to do this.” I went into the stall and, after a few moments struggle with the dammed pantyhose, relieved myself. As I was finishing up I heard her storm out of the ladies room.

I heard a quiet round of applause from the other women in the room as I left the stall. There were even a couple of “You GO girl” comments thrown in for good measure. All of the women were smiling at me and a couple of them shook my hand. One even commented how the mall could let someone like that in here. “She has just as much right to be here as I do even if I do think she’s a pompous old bitch.” I finished washing my hands and fixed my hair and makeup. Peggy just stood there with her mouth open.

“Jen, doesn’t ANYTHING faze you?”

“At the moment there isn’t much more anyone could do to me. Are you ready yet? ” Peggy finished fixing up and we headed back to the food court.

We could see the woman from the rest room was talking to Adam as we got closer. I heard a little of his reply. “…and I have to remind you madam that she has just as much right here as you do. If you want to take it up with the government please feel free to do so. I’m sure you’ll be told that, even in the eyes of the federal government, he is now and forever a she and that there will be no distinction between her and another woman.”

“I’ll never shop here again unless you do something about this outrage!”

“I do understand the way you feel but the mall and its management does not exclude any law abiding person from visiting our property. That includes her until such time as she breaks the law on mall property. If you’ll excuse me ma’am, I have to go to a special event scheduled in another half-hour. Good evening.” He turned and walked away.

The old bitch walked away fuming over her apparent snubbing. I giggled as I watched her retreat. Peggy was giggling too. Adam saw us and moved toward where we were standing. “I’m so sorry about that Jennifer. How can I make it up to you?”

“Just an escort to the ceremony by the most handsome man in the mall in a tux will do.” He bowed deeply and took my hand to kiss it. He then presented his arms. Peggy and I eagerly accepted and we went strolling down the hallway towards the glass elevator to go to the main concourse on the lower floor of the mall. Once again, heads turned as we passed by. We must have made quite a sight to the people in the mall. Two women dressed for a night on the town with a good-looking young man in a tuxedo. Not the ordinary thing you see in the mall every day!

We reached the elevator and Peggy hit the call button. A few seconds later the elevator glided to a stop on the floor and the doors opened. We stepped in and the doors closed for the short two-floor ride to the lowest level of the mall. The area between the 4 widely spaced glass elevators was normally used for events like this one with additional space in the wider lower hallways sometimes used for spillover space. It was sure packed today. Every high school on the city had multiple entries. We looked around at the exhibits for nearly 20 minutes. I wondered how the judges were going to select winners from this excellent group of young scientists and engineers.

The local newspaper photographers and television news crews made good use of our appearance and took lots of pictures and video of us looking at some of the exhibits and chatting with a few of the students. With about 10 minutes to go before the ceremony was to start, Adam headed us back towards the stage. There was a small enclosed area behind it for some privacy. “Well ladies, what do you think of our Science Fair?”

Peggy nodded to me to go first. “It looks great to me. I’m amazed at the quality of the work some of these students are doing. If this is an example of our future scientists and technicians, I’m very pleased. Peggy?”

“I second those thoughts. Jen, you really need to make a comment about that in your speech. These students are incredible. I wish I had their talents when I was their age!”

“Thank you ladies, I’m glad to know that you feel the same as I do. We have an incredible group of students here this year. I have to check on a couple of things then get the ceremony started. Just head up the stairs over there and come out on stage when you hear your names, OK?

Peggy and I nodded our agreement and Adam left us to check on last minute preparations. We both took a few minutes to rest up in some comfy chairs. In a few minutes we heard Adam start the ceremony. “… and we have some special surprise guests that will be helping us present the awards this evening. You’ll recognize them both from the events of last night’s bus accident. We have 5 students here that can attest to their courage and quick thinking. Ladies and gentlemen please join me in welcoming Peggy Thompson and Jennifer Stevens!”

We stepped out onto the stage to the explosion of hundreds of flash units on cameras. Adam came over to guide us towards a group of waiting students. I recognized one of the girls as the student I had rescued from under the pile of band instruments. She and another girl were carrying at least a dozen and a half long stemmed roses each. The girl I rescued presented hers to me and gave me a huge hug that I was more than glad to return. The other girl did the same for Peggy. We both had tears in our eyes as a wave of applause and cheers engulfed us.

Adam looked over at me and saw I was crying. “Ms Stevens was going to make some comments at this point but I think she might like to wait until later in the presentation.” I looked over at Adam and nodded in agreement. I don’t think I was in any kind of mental state to do anything more than stammer incoherently. “And now for the winners in our Science Fair competition…”

Adam read the entrants for each of the classes then the winner for the class came up on stage to accept their award. I liked the way that Adam announced the winner. Instead of “and the winner is” it sounded so much better when he used “and the award goes to” because all of these bright young students were winners to me. Each of the winning students came up on the stage and received their award from both of us. Everyone took lots of pictures, especially the parents of the students. After about 15 minutes, the ceremony was over and Adam turned the microphone over to me for my speech.

“Thanks to the students here for asking us to participate tonight. It means so much to both of us. I want to make sure you all realize that you are winners for just being here. It means that your school selected your project in your own local exhibits as being of the highest quality. Hopefully each of you will some day make a difference in the world. Someone out there may make a major advancement in science or technology. Never loose sight of the fact that you can do ANYTHING you want to if you are willing to work for it. And a word to the parents out there, please support your local school boards and administrators in their efforts to secure more funding for science and technology programs in our schools. The young minds we excite end educate today are the scientists and technology people of the future. Thank you for attending tonight. Please have a safe drive home.” I handed the microphone back to Adam. He placed it on the stand and again offered his arms to Peggy and I. We accepted again and he escorted us of off the stage via the stairs at the back. When we were in the private area he turned to me. “Thank You!” A moment later he kissed me on the cheek followed by a prolonged hug.

Peggy spoke up to break the mood. “Hey! What about me?” Adam broke his hold on me and did the same for Peggy. He bowed to both of us and turned to leave.

“Adam, WAIT!” I was frantically digging in my purse for something to write with and on. I found a pen and tore the flap off of one of the envelopes I had dumped in the purse that morning. I wrote my name and home number on it and handed it to him. “Remember to call me about storm chasing?”

“Of course!” With a flourish he took the paper and turned my hand over to kiss it. “Tomorrow night?”

“Yes.” He turned and walked way. I watched until he was lost in the crowd. Peggy went into nurse mode. She felt my forehead, then took my pulse looking at the watch on her wrist.

“Yup, girl, you got it!”

“GOT WHAT?”

“The love bug of course!”

“That CAN’T be possible. I’m not ready yet!”

“Your mind may not be but your body sure is.”

“Oh, is that what I feel?”

“Let me guess, you feel more than a little wet in a certain spot and your heart feels like its racing 5 miles a minute? And you can’t quite get him out of your thoughts?”

“That’s it….”

“Yup, you got it girl. Just go with the feeling. Tell you the truth, if I wasn’t married and 15 years older than him I’d go for him myself.”

“Peggy, I’m not certain about this. I guess my adaptation is in high gear now. I’m still not certain why. I wonder if it has anything to do with this ring. I felt a tingle when I put it on. Maybe I had better take it off.” I tried to take the ring off but it wouldn’t budge. It didn’t feel really tight but it just wouldn’t come off either.

“I guess my finger has swelled up a bit. I’ll just leave it on and try it again in the morning. Come on, Peggy, I don’t know about you but I’m just about out of steam for the night. Home and bed sounds real good right now.”

“I was just thinking that myself. Since you have a guest room do you mind if I sleep over tonight? I have another 45 minute drive after we get back to your place and I’m almost sleeping on my feet.”

“No problem, we can pick up some things for you when we get our things at the store. Let’s get going!”

“Right behind you…” We worked our way through the crowd stopping to talk with a student here and there and to take some more pictures with the parents. Another hour latter we finally got back to the store. Beth saw us coming and had our stuff waiting by the door.

“Thanks again, Beth, these dresses are great. Everything went very well.”

“I know, Jen, I was out in the back of the crowd watching. I’ll have to thank Adam for the mention about the store helping out with your outfits tonight. We had quite a surge in business especially for the dresses both of you had on.”

“Glad we could help. I want to get on back home and get some rest. I will be back tomorrow some time to complete my shopping if I can stick to my plans.”

“OK, Jen, we’ll keep an eye out for you. Do you want to change out of those before you go?”

“Not me. I’m just worn out. Peggy, how about you, do you want to get something to sleep in?”

“I’ll pass. I think just I’ll use one of your old tees. I can hear the bed calling to me as we speak.”

“Take care you two. It’s dark out there. Be careful going back to your vehicle.”

Peggy and I walked back to the entrance near where the truck was parked. Just inside the door was a bench. “Peggy, wait up! My feet are killing me in these heels. I want to change back into my other shoes anyway to drive.”

“Just toss me the keys while you’re changing and Ill go on ahead.”

“Are you sure you want to risk it? Remember what Beth said…”

“I’ll take the chance.” I tossed her the keys after getting the sandals out of the bag and kicking off my heels. It only took a few more seconds to get the sandals on and the heels back in the bag. I walked through the door and headed towards the truck about a hundred feet away. As I got a little closer I saw two people struggling. One was trying to pull a purse away from the other. “Oh MY GOD! THAT’S PEGGY!” flashed through my mind. I started running towards them as the thief hit her. Peggy went down hard holding her stomach. I thought, “DAMN, if I only had something to throw at him.” I looked down to my right hand as a small red glowing ball had formed in it. Not really knowing what had happened I just opened my fingers. The ball leapt out of my hand and flew directly towards the escaping purse-snatcher.

It caught up with him as he was a few steps away from Peggy hitting him in the side. The red glow expanded covering his whole body. He seemed to stiffen in a convulsion and dropped Peggy’s purse. It looked like he was lifted up a couple of feet in the air and blown almost 50 feet away. He came crashing to the ground in a heap as the red glow around his body faded.

I ran over to Peggy. She had hit her head on the pavement when she fell and was moaning as she held her stomach. The cuts on her head were bleeding badly. “Oh God, Peggy, What can I do to help?” She didn’t hear me. “Peggy?” I started to cry and reached out towards her head. As my hand neared her head a blue glow formed around my body. As my hand touched her head the glow flowed around my hand until she was covered in the glow too. A few moments later her eyes fluttered open.

“What…?”

“Quiet. Just lay there. Close your eyes and relax.” Her eyes closed as her breathing got better. After another 15 seconds or so the blue glow faded out. The cuts on her head were still there but were almost healed. She had a bruise on her stomach where her dress had ripped but that looked better moments later. Her eyes opened again and she tried to set up.

I helped her into a sitting position. “Jen, what happened?”

“You got mugged. The gut is laying over there knocked out.” We both looked towards he had fallen to the ground but there was no one there. “SHIT. He’s gone. Let’s get to the truck and get out of here. If I can get you up can you walk?”

“Hell, if I can stand up I’ll RUN!”

I helped Peggy up and collected out bags and purses. We made it to the truck without any more problems. Peggy handed me the keys and I unlocked her side and helped her in.

Peggy hit the release for the electronic lock on my door and I ran around and got in. To hell with dignity, I almost jumped into the safety of the truck. I hit the button to lock both doors, started the truck, and got the hell out of the parking lot. “Peggy do you want to go to the hospital?”

“No. I’m feeling better now. What the hell did you do to me? I thought I was hurt very badly. Now I’m just a little sore.”

“Peggy, I wish I knew. This weird blue glow surrounded both of us and all of your injuries just started to heal.”

“What did you do to the guy?”

“I was looking for something I could throw at him when a small red glowing ball formed in my hand. When I opened my fingers it just flew out of my hand and hit him in the side. He dropped your purse and got blown at least 50 feet away from us.”

Peggy turned her head towards me looking very confused. “Jen, just what the hell are you anyway?”

“I wish I knew, Peggy, I wish I knew…….” I looked over at Peggy and she had passed out. Her breathing was regular and shallow and when I touched shoulder she flinched a little. I guessed she had fallen asleep.
The rapid healing must have used a lot of energy.

I kept the truck as quiet as possible for the rest of the trip back to my house. I got Peggy awake enough to get her into the house as far as the guest room. I dumped all of my old clothes on the floor then I made Peggy tell me her phone number. I called her husband to tell him she was staying with me overnight. I looked over at Peggy to tell her it was OK and saw that she had collapsed on the bed. Now it was my turn to undress Peggy and tuck her in as she had dome for me the night before. I left her nude in the bed under the covers and dug out one of my old T-shirts for her to put on later. I dropped it on the foot of the bed. I could hear her breathing softly as I closed the door to head for my bedroom.

I stripped off the dress and underwear leaving them in a pile on the floor. After a quick trip to the bathroom to empty out and clean up, I too was quickly sleeping naked in my bed for the night.

There you have it Dear Diary, I wrote this first thing Friday morning so I may not have everything exactly as it happened but I think I’m pretty close. Waking up this morning was something of a surprise too. OOPS! Gotta go I hear the private line ringing. I’ll be back later…

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-*-*-*-*- To Be Continued in Zapped! Chapter 4 -*-*-*-*-

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