Suddenly Popular
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2022 Melanie Brown

Tom decided to fill in for his sister

 

---

 

Bleary-eyed, I picked up the remote to my TV and said, “Hello?” I squinted at the remote as my cell continued to ring. I dropped the remote on the floor and fumbled on my nightstand for my cell. My head still buried into my pillow, I groaned, “Hello?”

A bright and brassy Cathy laughed and asked, “Hey Tammy. Did I just wake you up?”

Mumbling into the phone, I asked, “Yeah. Why are you calling so early?”

Laughing again, Cathy said, “Girl! It’s after two in the afternoon! Is Paul still there?” She chuckled.

I sat up on my bed, propped up on my elbow. “What? No! Paul didn’t stay overnight! Are you crazy? My dad is here you know.”

Giggling, Cathy asked, “So if your dad wasn’t there, Paul would have stayed the night?”

I scowled at the phone. “No. No! Paul left around three or four.”

Cathy said, “Oh, okay. Are you walking funny this morning?”

I said, “I dunno. I haven’t gotten out of bed yet. I… will you knock it off?!”

Cathy burst out laughing. “I’m teasing you, girl.”

I slung my feet off my bed. “I’m guessing there’s a reason why you called other than my sex life?”

Sounding shocked, Cathy asked, “You have a sex life?”

I almost shouted, “No!”

Cathy giggled. “Okay, I’ll stop. I called to ask if you wanted to come to my pizza party tonight?”

I blinked a couple of times to try to wake up. “Didn’t we do pizza last night?”

“Yeah, but this party is just for us cheerleaders. No boys. It’ll be a lot like the slumber parties we had back in middle school, except Mom said everyone has to be gone by midnight.”

I said, “I’ve never been to a slumber party. I was never invited to one.”

Cathy paused a moment, then said, “Oh, yeah. Well, you really missed out.”

I scratched in a place girls don’t have. I asked, “So what do you do at these parties? Will there be a lot of alcohol and porno movies?”

Cathy said, “Nah. That’s next week. We’re just going to eat pizza, play some games, do make-overs and watch some chick-flicks.”

I laughed. “Well, count me in. What time?”

Cathy laughed. “Brandi will be by to pick you up around six thirty. She’s picking up Ash and Sarah as well.”

I said, “Great. See you then. I’m going back to bed.”

Laughing, Cathy said, “Good night!”

I clicked off the phone and fell back on my pillow.

*          *          *

Fortunately, I had just finished with my eyeliner when Dad suddenly stuck his head in the bathroom door and startled me. Who knows what direction my liner might have gone?

“What the hell are you doing, Tom?”

Still holding my eyeliner, I said, “Putting on my make-up, Dad.”

Frowning, Dad said, “It’s Saturday. I thought you only had to use that crap when you dressed as a cheerleader.”

I shrugged. “Me, or more specifically, Tammy, has been invited to a party tonight.”

Dad continued to frown. “I don’t think I want you going to these drunken orgies dressed as a girl with a bunch of hormone crazed boys.”

I laughed. “Don’t be silly, Daddy. It’s just a pizza party and it’s girls only. Cynthia went to parties like this all the time.” I resumed applying my make-up.

“What time do I have to take you over there?” asked Dad.

I said, “Don’t worry about it. I’m going to be picked up by another cheerleader.”

Being sarcastic, Dad said, “Well, that certainly eases my mind.”

I chuckled. “It’ll be fine, Dad. I really have to finish getting ready.” It’s funny. While I rarely was invited to any kind of parties, getting ready before consisted of making sure my t-shirt didn’t have holes in the arm pits. Now it’s more involved.

When I finally finished getting ready, I stepped into the living room to join Dad in watching TV until Brandi arrived. I was wearing skinny jeans, a tank top that exposed the pink satin straps to my bra. I wore my hair up in a high pony tail, along with a few bracelets, hoop earrings and my high heel wedgies. Actually, all these items belonged to Cynthia.

Dad shook his head when I entered the room. He said, “You look very pretty. That’s something I never dreamed I’d tell my son.”

I smiled and said, “Thank you, Daddy.” I found myself saying ‘daddy’ when I felt extra girlie. I sat down next to Dad.

Dad grunted. “You smell pretty too.”

Giggling, I said, “Thanks. I borrowed some of Cynthia’s favorite perfume.”

Dad narrowed his eyes at me. “Are you sure there’re no boys at this party?”

“That’s what they told me,” I said with a shrug. “Girls just dress up more. And besides, I don’t care anything about boys.”

Dad looked at me funny. “Oh really? That one boy is a figment of my imagination?”

I looked down at my hands a moment. The pink on my nails is very pretty. “I just got caught up in the moment. And I have to be believable as a girl.”

Frowning, Dad said, “Do me a favor and dial it back a little.”

Chuckling, I said, “I think you’re the one who’s getting carried away.”

On TV, an ad for a testosterone male enhancement product came on. Dad pointed at the TV and said, “I’m going to start sprinkling that stuff into your food.”

The doorbell rang. As I stood up, I scowled at Dad. “I sincerely hope you’re joking. I think I’m too male as it is.” On the way to answer the door, I picked up my purse, checked it to make sure my lipstick and compact and cell phone were inside and then slid the strap over my shoulder. I waved a few fingers and said, “Bye, Daddy. You don’t have to wait up for me.”

I opened the door and greeted Brandi and followed her out to her car.

*          *          *

I was assaulted moments after Cathy opened her door with a big hug. I squeezed past her as she hugged Brandi.

Donna smiled and waved at me as I stepped into Cathy’s living room. “Hey, Tammy. You got here just in time. We just ordered the pizza. Sodas are over there in the ice chest.” She pointed into the kitchen.

I looked around the room as Ashley and Sarah got their hugs. I counted six including me. I guess everyone is here. Donna and Sarah I’m still not really friends with. Hopefully at this party I can change that. All the cheerleaders should be friends at least.

There was a woman doing something in the kitchen. Using my powers of deduction, I took a wild guess she was Cathy’s mom. Cathy favors her mom a lot. And if I was a betting man, or girl I should say, I’d bet that Cathy’s dad was hiding out in some dive downtown waiting to hear the all clear.

I walked into the kitchen and opened the ice chest and reached in for a Dr. Pepper. Cathy’s mom looked over at me and asked, “You’re Tammy, right?”

I knocked some ice from the can and stood up straight. “Yes ma’am. What gave me away?” I asked in a joking manner.

Cathy’s mom chuckled and said, “Donna said your name. Cathy’s told me a lot about you.”

I frowned. “I hope some of it was good.”

Smiling, she said, “Don’t worry. Believe me, Cathy was extremely happy when you agreed to fill in for your… sister, correct?”

I popped the can open. “Yeah. My twin sister.”

Cathy’s mom stepped closer and shook her head. “And you’re a boy? Honestly, I don’t see a boy at all. You’re very pretty.”

Starting to feel a bit uncomfortable with being stared at, I said, “Thank you. My sister and I really do look identical.”

Butting in to the conversation, Ashley entered the kitchen and grabbed a soda. Frowning, she said, “And right away she starts dating the most gorgeous boy on the football team.”

Cathy’s mom smiled. “Oh really?”

I shook my head. “We’re not dating!”

Brandi, opening the ice chest said, “For not dating, they sure were kissing hot and heavy.”

Walking into the kitchen, Cathy said, “Oh, just admit it girl. Nobody blames you for wanting the hottest guy on the team. We’re just amazed at how quick he became your boyfriend.”

Sarah removed a soda from the ice chest and said, “Tammy, we don’t hate you for it. Much.”

I sighed with a heavy groan. “I’m a victim of circumstances! We just got caught up in the moment.”

As she took a sip of her soda, Ashley said, “That was a pretty damned long moment.” Everybody laughed.

With a chuckle, Cathy’s mom said, “Settle down, girls. I think you’ve embarrassed her enough.”

Sarah said, “We’re just kidding you. Hey, we wouldn’t kid you if we didn’t like you.”

The doorbell suddenly rang. Cathy shouted, “Pizza’s here!” Everyone ran to the living room. I just stood there, wondering if I should leave.

Cathy’s mom looked at me with concern and gently put her arm around my shoulder in a motherly way. She asked, “Are you okay?”

I looked at the floor and muttered, “I guess so.” In a softer voice, I declared, “We’re not dating.” I stupidly felt like crying.

She gave me a hug and said quietly in my ear, “Look, honey. You know they don’t mean anything by it. They’re probably jealous that you got that boy’s attention. Don’t let it bother you.”

Still looking at the floor, I nodded. “I tend to be too serious.”

Smiling at me, she said, “Well, we’re here to have some fun. Okay?”

I nodded and smiled weakly. With a grin, Cathy’s mom said, “You better go grab a pizza before it’s all gone.”

I ran into the living room to see if there was any pepperoni left.

*          *          *

While the pizza was still vaguely hot, we all sat down to watch a movie I’d never heard of called The Notebook. I wasn’t surprised that all the movies on the play list were chick flicks with nothing in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. When it ended, Ashley had to comment, “Next time it rains, we’ll know what Tammy and Paul will be doing.”

I retrieved another soda from the kitchen and saw Cathy and Brandi at Cathy’s computer her family kept in the living room. I walked over to see what they were doing.

“What are you guys doing?” I asked as I stood behind Brandi. On the screen were gowns and dresses.

Cathy looked up at me and said, “We’re checking out prom dresses.”

I grunted a laugh. “Prom dresses? We’re not even out of October yet.”

Brandi looked back at me. “Can’t start too early. It’s going to take a lot of convincing to get my dad to buy one for me.”

Ashley walked up and said, “I don’t know. That was a beautiful dress you had for the homecoming dance.”

Brandi grinned. “And I had to work up a lot of tears to get Dad to buy it.”

Ashley looked at me and squinted. “The dance was just a couple of weeks ago, but I can’t remember what you wore, Tammy. Did Paul take you?”

I laughed and shook my head. How can they forget so easily I’m not a girl? I said, “I didn’t go to the dance. Nobody asked me.”

Brandi gave me a curious look. “Paul didn’t ask you?”

I laughed. “He didn’t even ask my sister and they actually dated last year.”

Cathy said, “Don’t you remember? Paul took Clarissa to the dance.”

Ashley said, “That’s right. Clarissa won homecoming queen. She was totally gorgeous at the dance.”

Donna had walked over. She pointed at me and said, “You were at the dance. I saw you. You were with that Randall guy. You wore a very pretty and very short royal blue dress.”

“That was my sister. I didn’t go to the dance,” I said.

Cathy asked, “So why aren’t you dating Randall? Granted, Paul is much cuter.”

Rolling my eyes, I said, “Randall was Cynthia’s boyfriend. Was. She broke up with him just before she left. And for the billionth time, I don’t date boys.”

Brandi shook her head. “Well, you’re dating one now. And you’re going to need a prom dress. Let me know if you see something on this web site you like.”

“Guys, come on,” I said feeling a bit irritated. “I won’t need a dress. I’ll be back to my old self by then.”

Brandi frowned. “Sister, you’re not leaving the squad and you’re going to prom if it hair-lips the governor.”

Donna poked Brandi in the shoulder. “What does that even mean?”

Brandi shrugged. “I dunno. My grandmother is always saying it. But in this case, it means Tammy is going to prom!”

*          *          *

“Guys, are you ready to go?” asked Brandi as she came out of the bathroom. “My dad just called and wants me to come home now. It’s a quarter to twelve.”

I sat up and looked around. Donna and I were the only ones left watching a movie. Ashley was asleep on the floor and Sarah was playing Call of Duty: Mission Prom Date, on the computer.

Cathy had already changed into her PJs and was in the kitchen talking to her mother. She stepped out of the kitchen and said, “Yeah, it is getting late. I want to thank everyone for coming. I think we all had fun.”

I stood up and stretched. “Thanks for the party, Cathy. And thanks to Donna’s Tarot cards, I’ll be pregnant before graduation.”

Donna turned away from the TV and said, “Sometimes they’re a little off.”

Cathy gave me a hug. “I’m so glad you came.” She hugged everyone and soon me, Sarah, Ash and Brandi were walking out the door.

As Brandi slid behind the steering wheel of her car, she said, “Wake me up if I start snoring too loudly.”

*          *          *

Despite being up late Saturday night, I was up before Dad. That’s fine by me. Last Sunday morning, Dad expected me to make breakfast like Mom did on Sunday mornings. As it was, I just leisurely poured me a bowl of cereal. And all I was wearing was a pair of panties and my sister’s pink sweat pants. My hair was out of control as it kept trying to fall into my cereal.

As I was eating, Dad poked his head into the kitchen. “What’s for breakfast?”

I shook the cereal box and pointed at the cupboard. “Bowls are in their usual place. It’s a help yourself day.”

Dad squinted at me and frowned. “Shouldn’t you be wearing a bra or something?”

I frowned at Dad. “I hope you’re not being serious.”

As Dad retrieved a bowl he asked, “What will the neighbors think if I let you run around half naked?”

I laughed. “I’m a boy. I’m allowed to run around half naked. And the neighbors better not be looking into our house!”

Dad shook his head. “I get you and Cynthia confused.”

Chuckling, I said, “Just remember that I’m prettier.”

Dad laughed. “I keep forgetting. Oh, and why are there links to prom dresses in my email? Is it prom already? Is that boy taking you?”

I frowned. “No and no. Cathy insisted I send those to you so you can see how inexpensive the dresses are. Which is nuts because Cynthia will be back long before prom. And I have no plans to go to prom anyway.”

Dad took a bite of his cereal. “I’d hardly call two hundred dollars for a dress as inexpensive. And I didn’t like that boy when he dated your sister.”

I got up from the table and put my bowl in the sink. “Well, we’re not dating. We just had… um… circumstances.”

Dad pointed at me with his spoon. “I hope you’re not. But do me a favor please. Go put something on.”

I frowned and unconsciously felt my chest. “I never had to before.”

Dad shook his head and said, “You never had circumstances with boys before. Go put something on.”

Frowning deeper, I curtly said, “Fine!” I spun on my heel and left the kitchen.

I couldn’t believe Dad would insist I wear a top. I’m sure he’s getting back at me for agreeing to fill in for Cynthia as a cheerleader. But I’m only dressing up for the pep rallies and games.

I stopped by Cynthia’s room and pulled a sports bra from her dresser. I held it up and chuckled. We both wear the same bra size.

No sooner had I slipped the sports bra on than my cell phone rang. I looked at who was calling and it was Cathy.

“Hey Cathy. What’s up?”

Sounding oddly serious, Cathy asked, “I didn’t wake you up, did I?”

Sitting on my bed, I said, “Not this time. Is something wrong?”

“Yes,” said Cathy. “I thought you should hear this from a friend rather than through the rumor mill at school.”

“What are you talking about?” I asked. “What’s going on?”

“I wouldn’t be saying anything if I hadn’t confirmed it,” said Cathy obviously getting worked up.

“What?!” I said in frustration. “If you don’t tell me I’m going to reach through this phone and strangle you.”

There was a pause and I heard Cathy take a deep breath. “Brace yourself girl. It’s Paul. Last night he was seen at Gildersleave’s with Clarissa. He was holding her hand and they kissed. Brandi’s sister said that it’s well known that they’re now an item. Paul has a new girlfriend. I’m so sorry.”

“That’s good to know. But Cathy, seriously. It doesn’t really bother me. He’s not my boyfriend,” I said. “I admit we got carried away with a set of circumstances.” Honestly, it wasn’t like I was falling in love with Paul.

Cathy said, “I’m not buying it that this doesn’t bother you. Did he take you to Gildersleave’s for dinner?” Gildersleave’s is the most expensive and posh dining establishment in town. It’s considered an insult to even call it a restaurant.

I frowned at my phone. “We never really went on a date. We just went to Taco del Rey. It wasn’t a date.”

Cathy said, “He told a friend that he was out with the most beautiful girl at school. How does that make you feel?”

I shook my head. “Cathy, I really do appreciate your loyalty to a friend and squad member, but let’s get real. Clarissa *is* the most beautiful girl at school. She won homecoming queen. Every boy drools when they see her.”

Cathy sighed. “It really doesn’t bother you that he dropped you for Miss Popularity?”

Getting annoyed, I said, “Of course it hurts to be rejected. But we weren’t going together. It was just a fling. That’s all. It’s actually a good thing. When I go back to school tomorrow as Tom, it would seem really weird for me to have a boyfriend.”

There was a long pause. Cathy then asked slowly, “What do you mean go back to school as Tom?”

I said, “Monday I go back to being me. I’m only Tammy when I’m an active cheerleader.”

“Noooo,” exclaimed Cathy. “You’re a girl, Tammy. You can’t pretend to be a boy.”

I frowned at the phone. “Cathy, have you blown a gasket? You have that backwards. I’m a boy pretending to be a girl.”

“You know what my mom asked me last night after everyone had left?” asked Cathy.

“I have no idea,” I said.

“She asked me how long did Tammy pretend to be a boy?

“You told her I wasn’t pretending, right?” I asked, getting a little upset.

Cathy said, “Yeah, but she wasn’t buying it.”

Frowning, I said with a slight growl, “Well, at your next party, I’ll show up naked.”

Cathy sighed. “Bottom line Tammy, everyone knows you’re a cheerleader. You can’t just suddenly show up to school as a boy.”

“Why not?” I asked. “I’ve been a boy all my life.”

Cathy said, “You were a nobody until the game. But now you were on local news kissing Paul and on the sports page of the paper on Saturday.”

I shook my head. “Everyone will just think it was Cynthia.”

Cathy said, “Your name was listed as Tammy.”

“But I’m not really a girl.” I said feeling like I was being railroaded.

Cathy said, “Honestly, Tammy. You’re not just *A* girl, you’re a very popular girl. We get asked all the time if you’re single. I’m serious, Tammy. Boys really like you. Like a lot. Wait when they hear that Paul is no longer your boyfriend.”

I felt a sense of panic. “I’m popular? Are you freakin’ serious? I’m not interested in boys. Despite what everyone thinks, Paul and I weren’t dating. I didn’t expect any of this. Maybe I should quit the cheerleaders and go back to normal.”

“Don’t even think that, Tammy!” exclaimed Cathy. “I know you love being a cheerleader. It’d be terrible if you gave that up. Everyone accepts you as Tammy.”

I sighed heavily. “Okay, Cathy. Cynthia is supposed to be back before Thanksgiving. So I guess I can put up with this being a girl nonsense until then. Maybe.”

“Thank you so much, Tammy!” said Cathy.

“I am going to ask coach about this,” I said with a huff. “I wasn’t told this was a twenty-four seven deal.”

*          *          *

Okay, call me a sell-out. Nobody can see what I do at home, but as I got ready for bed, I pulled Cynthia’s babydoll nightie out of her drawer to wear for bed. I may resist it, but I actually do like wearing the satin and silky clothes. When my sister returns, I’ll still keep wearing silky panties because they’re just so comfortable.

Just as I slid my freshly shaved legs under the covers, my cell phone rang. Who the hell would call me at bed time? I looked at the phone and was surprised to see the call was coming from Cynthia. She’s only been gone less than two weeks, but I really thought she’d call before now.

Still laying in bed and pulling the covers up, I picked up the phone and said, “Hey.”

Cynthia replied, “Hey, Tom. It’s me.”

“About time you called,” I scolded. And then I added, “Do you have any idea what time it is here?”

Cynthia sighed. “Sorry. It’s been really crazy busy here. But I do need to keep this call short. I tell you, Tom. Being in a movie is really awesome.”

I chuckled. “I can imagine. See any movie stars?”

Cynthia laughed. “Every time I look in a mirror! But seriously, yeah. It’s a movie lot.”

“That’s cool,” I said as I dug in deeper into the covers. “But I bet you can’t wait to get home though.”

Cynthia asked, “Get home?”

Suddenly feeling a bolt of fear, I said, “You’re still coming home in two weeks, right?”

Cynthia laughed. “That was the original plan. But you know what? They like me. They really like me and so I’m getting signed up for several projects. It might be after the first of the year or maybe later before Mom and I get back home.”

“Well, shit!” I exclaimed. “That means I’m stuck being a cheerleader for a while longer!”

Showing no sympathy, Cynthia said, “Oh wah. That’s something else I wanted to talk to you about. Cathy has texted me a lot about you. She has nothing but praise about how good a cheerleader you are. You’ve taken on being a cheerleader with enthusiasm as well as femininity. And why were you dating my ex boyfriend?”

I sighed. “I figured Cathy would say something about that. We weren’t dating. It was just circumstances that we got caught up in.”

There was a pause and then Cynthia said flatly, “You kissed Paul.”

I hesitated a moment before replying. I said quietly, “That’s true. I did. Sorry.”

Cynthia giggled. “Don’t apologize. Did you love it? Be honest.”

I hesitated again. Finally I said, “Honestly? Yes. I loved it. I never wanted that kiss to end.”

Laughing, Cynthia said, “I feel ya, girl. Same with me. Kissing Paul was pure heaven. Same for you, right?”

I wished she would stop talking about Paul. But I said, “True.”

Cynthia giggled. “Hey, there’s no shame in wanting his kiss to last forever. But he soon broke up with you? Was it something you did?”

Sighing again, I said, “We were never really dating, but yes, he broke up with me. He decided he liked Clarissa better.”

“Clarissa!” exclaimed Cynthia. “Her again? That bitch. Granted, she is pretty but she’s not very pleasant to be around. But you’re pretty too. You look like me, after all. And I’m sure you’re much more pleasant to be around.”

I shrugged uselessly and said, “I wouldn’t know. I’ve never been around myself. But I really doubt I’m pretty. I’m not even a girl.”

Cynthia huffed. “Cathy sent me a picture of when she and you kissed Paul’s cheek. Trust me, girl. You are beyond just pretty. And Cathy is very excited about how much of a girl you really are. At first she had concerns about a boy taking my place. She says she was being silly because you’re not a boy. Not even close.”

I scowled at the phone. “H… How can you say that!”

Cynthia chuckled. “I’m looking at these pictures of you being a cheerleader and then later with Paul. And I tell you, sis. Your expression and that look in your eyes when you’re with Paul, I can tell you really had it bad for him.” She laughed. “I had the same expression!”

Frowning, I said, “I did not have anything bad for him.”

Laughing, Cynthia said, “Your eyes tell a different story. It’s okay to fall in love with Paul. I don’t think many girls could resist his charms and those ocean deep blue eyes of his. But I wish you’d called me. I could have told you to be careful. He’s beautiful, but he just isn’t loyal. Honestly, you just need to find another boy. I can help! After all, we seem to have the same taste in boys!” She giggled.

I sighed. “I think what I need is to just stay far away from boys.”

Cynthia laughed. “I doubt you’ll be able to. Well sis, I should go. I’m going to meet my co-star for a quick dinner. Oh! I hope you can come out and meet him. You will absolutely love him. He’s a little older than Paul and absolutely totes adorbs. Gotta jet. Night!” She clicked off.

Well, that was an interesting conversation. I set the phone on my night stand, checked my alarm and rolled over to sleep.

*          *          *

“Are you almost ready, honey?” called Dad from the living room. Dad never referred to me as honey or really any other terms of endearment before, but now it’s pretty much all the time.

“In just a minute!” I replied as I stepped back from my mirror as I finished putting in my favorite pair of earrings. I had decided to put Cathy’s comments to the test by going total girl. I wasn’t wearing too much make-up, though Mom might argue that point, but I was wearing more than usual which wasn’t much different from most girls at school. I had done my nails the night before as well as shaving everywhere. It’s really funny that Cynthia and I have the same bra size. Cynthia’s high heel wedgie sandals also fit just right. And to top it off, I put on one of her favorite dresses. And a little spritz of her favorite perfume. If I didn’t know it was me, I’d swear I was looking at Cynthia on one of her better days. Not to brag, but I was very pretty.

I fully expected to be sent home within an hour of arriving at school with shocked teachers and administrators harrumphing that as a boy, I was dressed improperly.

Dad surprised me with a low whistle as I entered the room. “Is there a reason to be so dressed up … um… son?”

I flashed a smile to Dad as I picked up my purse. “No particular reason.” That was a lie of course. I wanted to prove to Cathy that I’m only supposed to dress girly when I’m a cheerleader. I made sure my purse contained some money, my phone and make-up. One of Cynthia’s tampons was still in the purse as well.

Dad glanced at the wall clock and said, “Well, sugar, you’re about to be late. Let’s go.” I nodded and using some extra care keeping my legs together, I slid into Dad’s car.

It was a short drive and after Dad’s quick hug, I just as carefully slid my legs out and then headed for the school building. As I entered the building, I glanced around and with the exception of some attention from boys, no one seemed to notice or care. The same as when I had been dressed as a cheerleader. Well, they don’t realize it’s me yet.

As I headed towards my locker to store the bag with the clothes for practice, I heard a familiar voice from behind me.

“Hey, Tammy,” said Paul. I turned to face him and felt a sudden pang of emotion. I hate to admit it, but Paul really is a gorgeous boy. And to think I’d kissed him. I felt a little turmoil of emotions. I really had thought seeing Paul in school wouldn’t be a problem.

A little coldly, I said, “I’m surprised you’re talking to me.”

Paul looked at the floor a moment and then said, “Look. I’m sorry. I really didn’t think it’d matter since there’s nothing, you know, really going on between us.”

I folded my arms underneath the small mounds created by my bra. “You still should have had the common decency to call me, Paul. I shouldn’t have to learn about breaking up with you through a friend.”

Looking a bit confused, Paul said, “I really didn’t think we had to officially break up. It’s not like we were actually dating, right? Anyway, I won’t keep you. You look very nice today. I’m very sorry about this. I do like you.”

I glared at him. “Stop,” I said sternly. He nodded and walked away. I was suddenly angry with myself as I felt tears starting to fill my eyes. This is stupid I screamed inside my head. Crying? Really? Over Paul? I had no emotional reaction all weekend and now at school I’m crying? I ducked into the nearest girls room to check my make-up.

There were four girls in the restroom, Ashley, a girl from my English class and two that I didn’t know. No one shouted about a boy being in the restroom.

“Tammy!” cried Ashley as she tossed her arms around me in a big hug. “Oh, Tammy. I’m so sorry about you and Paul. I can’t believe he’d do that to you!”

Looking confused, the other girl asked, “What happened?”

Ashley handed me a tissue. “Her boyfriend broke up with her. Bastard didn’t even have the decency to call her about it.”

Still looking confused, the other girl said, “Are you talking about Paul Conway? Yeah, he got back with Clarissa this weekend.” She looked over at me and said, “You mean he didn’t even tell you? Man, that’s cold.”

Ashley gave me another hug. “Are you okay? Do you need to talk?”

I made a quick check of my make-up, which was mostly undamaged. I said, “I’m okay. Thanks.”

Ashley nodded. “If you’re sure. Girl, we’ll see you at lunch then. I love your dress, by the way. Jen and I need to run.”

I finally remembered the other girl’s name was Jen. Finally alone in the girls room, I checked my make-up and little more closely. After daubing the tears away with Ash’s tissue, I could tell my mascara managed to survive. I shook my head as I looked at my reflection. I know it’s not the first time in public, but I still couldn’t believe I’m wearing make-up. I freshened my lip gloss and left the restroom. Nobody cared about how I was dressed.

As I was about to enter my first class, a boy from my homeroom class stopped me in the hall. He seemed shy and hesitant and kept looking down. His hands were stuffed into his pockets. He said, “Uh, excuse me, Tammy? I was curious if you’d like to um, you know, um, go out sometime?” Holy crap. I’m being asked out on a date! What do I say? What do I do? I’ve been where this boy is standing, worried about making a fool out of myself asking out a girl. Girls always turned me down. And now, here I’m the girl. Go out on a date? No way and Paul was a special case.

I smiled hesitantly at him and said, “Thank you for asking. It’s very flattering. But not right now. Thanks.” I could tell he was crushed. I felt awful. Did girls feel awful when they crushed my soul? Probably not. But this was my first crushed soul.

He nodded and forced his lips into a tight, unsuccessful smile. He mumbled, “Okay. Thanks.” He turned and walked away.

I felt terrible, but honestly, what would give him the idea that I’d say yes when I couldn’t even remember that his name was Doug. Oh yeah. His name was Doug. I sighed and walked into the class room and took my usual seat and took a notebook out of my bag.

A few minutes into the class as the teacher was scribbling something on the chalkboard, someone poked my shoulder. Frowning, I turned around and looked at the girl sitting behind me. She held out a piece of paper that had been folded about twenty zillion times. She whispered. “That’s from Joey.”

I turned a bit further and saw the little dweeb Joey grinning like a fool as he briefly waved. The teacher turned to face the class and asked, “Is there something going on that should know about?” There was some tittering scattered around the class.

Joey sat stiffly straight and said adamantly, “No sir.” I held the small folded paper tightly so it couldn’t be seen.

I looked at Joey with an expression that I hoped conveyed the message, “I’ve been there Joey. I won’t rat you out.” The teacher looked around the room for a moment before returning to his scribbling.

Making sure the teacher wasn’t looking in my direction; I tried to quietly unfold the scrap of paper. I kept unfolding and wondering if Joey really wanted me to read his note as it was folded so tightly. Finally I had it open and smoothed out so I could read it. Scrawled in pencil, Joey had printed, “I THINK YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. I WOULD LOVE TO TAKE YOU TO A MOVIE. PLEASE SAY YES. JOEY.” The note was followed by his phone number. It did hit me right in the feels to have a boy I don’t really know, sincerely say I’m beautiful. What can you say to that? Using my pen, I wrote in as feminine as I could using cursive, “No. But thanks.”

I carefully folded the note as small as I could and handed it back to the girl sitting behind me. She made sure it got back to Joey. I turned to face the front of the classroom, so I was not able to see the expression on his crushed soul.

*          *          *

It was finally lunch. I was exhausted running a gauntlet of boys all morning, asking me for a date. What was special about this morning. I also had to run through a wall of girls hugging me and telling me how sorry they were for me for how Paul treated me. Before I could sit at the table with the other cheerleaders, Cathy jumped up and gave me a hug, followed by every girl on the squad. It’s not that I don’t appreciate their concerns, but it was just getting ridiculous.

I finally got to sit down and Cathy asked me, “Are you okay? How are you holding up?”

I said in an exasperated voice, “I’m doing fine, everyone. I mean, really. I agree, Paul could have done a better job in breaking up, but I’m fine. I’m not going to jump off a cliff over Paul.”

Donna nodded. “Good. He’s not worth it.”

Ashley knitted her brows at me. “You look tired though. Did you cry all night?”

As I squirted dressing on my salad from a packet, I said, “No. I’ve had an endless parade of boys asking me out on dates.”

Cathy grinned. “I told you that you were popular. Oh, and I love your dress.”

I took a bite of my salad. “I don’t get it. Did a bulletin go out saying okay, come get me! I’m no longer dating Paul!”

Ashley spread her arms out, “See? I told you guys they were dating.”

I frowned at Ashley. “Will you knock it off?”

Cathy smiled. “Getting hit on a lot, are you?”

I nodded. “Way too much. I hate turning them down, but it’s not like I can go out with all of them even if I wanted to go out with boys.”

Cathy said, “True. Unless they’re a creep or an asshole, you hate to say no.”

Donna asked, “You mean there were no boys you liked?”

I shrugged. “There were a few I liked. They seemed nice and fun. But that’s not really the point, is it? I don’t want to date boys.”

Cathy said, “Well, here’s something you could do. Yeah, you’d have to date a few boys, but that can be fun. Next time some boys that you think you like, who share some interests, go ahead and accept. It’s not like you’re marrying them or having their babies. Just have fun.”

Frowning, I said, “I’d feel like I was leading them on.”

Cathy asked, “About what?”

“Well, they might want me to be their girlfriend, rather than just a date or two.” I said flatly.

Cathy knitted her brows. “Be honest. You were more than happy to be Paul’s girlfriend.”

I rolled my eyes. “Even if that were remotely true, at least Paul knew about me. I wasn’t fooling anyone.”

The bell rang signaling the end of lunch. Just as I was about to get up, a boy sat next to me.

“Hey, you remember me, Pete in your Art class? Would you like to go to a movie sometime?”

Cathy grinned as she exited the cafeteria.

*          *          *

Four of us were cutting through the gym on our way to cheerleader practice. There were six boys there as well shooting hoops. I think they were playing HORSE but I’m not sure. Two of the boys had their shirts off, displaying their physiques.

Donna said, “Hey. Let’s stop and watch a minute. The blond with his shirt off is my boyfriend Michael.”

Sarah nodded. “Sure. We have time.”

I felt tiny watching them. All six of them were tall and well built. There was one boy that caught my eye for some reason. At first glance he looked like one of those tough guys that you’d normally try to avoid. He was wearing a black t-shirt that did nothing to hide his well muscled frame underneath. His short, dark brown hair appeared to be in a state of perpetual unkemptness. He smiled when he caught me looking at him.

Donna leaned over and whispered in my ear, “His name is Shaun McAlister.”

I blushed and asked, “Who? What? What are you talking about?”

Giggling, Donna said, “Shaun is the name of the boy you’ve been drooling over for the past five minutes.”

I shook my head and said, “Don’t be silly.” I unconsciously wiped at my mouth. Well shit. I have been drooling. Embarrassed, I smiled, “Thanks. He looks like a punk.”

Donna kept watching her boyfriend and then turned to grin at me. “Actually, I’ve heard he’s very nice.”

I nodded. I kept watching the boys play their game. Why did this one boy, Shaun, have such a grip on my attention? I mean, he’s a boy. He smiled when he saw me looking again.

Sarah said, “Guys. As fun as this is, we need to go. Coach won’t be happy if we’re all late.”

As all the girls started to leave the area, I took one last look at Shaun. Why did I just think that he was very cute?

“Excuse me. Miss?”

I turned and was surprised to see Shaun running up to me. He said, “Tammy, right? You’re one of the cheerleaders?”

I nodded.

His face flushed slightly as he said, “I couldn’t help but notice you guys watching. My name’s Shaun by the way. Anyway, I couldn’t help noticing. Anyway, I uh, well… I know you’re busy Friday, but I wanted to ask you if you’d like to go see that new Nathan Adam’s movie on Saturday? I’ve heard it’s pretty good. Anyway, I was wanting to know if ah, you ah, you’d like to go with me to see it?”

I smiled at him. I know I shouldn’t find his attempt to ask a girl on a date to be amusing but I did. I said, “I’ve heard it was good. I love Nathan Adams.” His movies are usually a lot of fun with a lot of action and cute girls.

Shaun chuckled and rubbed the back of his head. “Yeah. I think all girls love Nathan Adams. Would you like to go?” Here we go. Another clueless boy asking me out. This is so crazy to keep getting hit on. I don’t date boys. Ever.

With a few fingers, I brushed the hair from my face and I smiled. “I’d love to, Shaun.”

*          *          *

To be continued…