The freshmen boys of Asher College have obsessed for weeks in anticipation of Phi Lambda Phi’s annual ‘Harvest Moon Panty Raid’ but Nick Wilder has other plans. He’s got his eye on one Phi Lamb in particular and he’s not about to screw it up by being like everyone else. But plans change and so must Nick if he’s going to get the girl of his dreams.

Chapter 29

No cars were on the street as they exited through the gates.

“Michele told me to remind you we have a mixer on Saturday night. You have to find a date.”

“A date?”

“Yeah. You know … asking a boy out, or a girl if that’s your thing … talking … laughing … having fun … maybe some lighting petting with the promise of something more.”

“I know what a date is.”

“Good.” Gwen said, “You’re a Phi Lamb. You shouldn’t have trouble finding a date.”

“Do you have a date?”

“Not yet.”

“Why not?”

Gwen teased, “There was a guy in my Geology class who I thought might need a win after last night. Turns out I was wrong.”

“You were going to ask me out?”

“Are you one of those backward types who think it improper for a girl to ask a guy out on a date? You were a cute guy. Totally awkward with a complete lack of social ability but definitely cute.”

“Was that supposed to be a compliment?”

Gwen ignored the question, “I remember the first time I felt you staring at me in class. Your energy was like being licked by a puppy dog. There was aggression, but it was benign and fun. The energy felt like pure joy and I have to admit, I started looking forward to our interactions in class.”

Nick thought back to that day’s interaction with Roger, “I was on the other side of the room.”

Gwen gave a wicked grin, “I’m that good.”

“You drained me in Monday’s class. That’s why I feel asleep. I was so tired I skipped my afternoon classes to take a nap.”

“I had to be sure of your magic potential before choosing you.” Gwen smiled, “I like to win.”

“Unreal.” Nick glared at Gwen. “I’ve felt guilty all week for creeping on you.”

“All’s well that ends well, right?”

“I guess.”

Gwen pointed up the sidewalk. “We have company.”

Clem sat on a bench by the sidewalk, oblivious to everything around him as he stared at the ground.

The pair approached at a leisurely pace but Clem’s eyes never moved. Nick asked, “You ok, Clem?”

Clem looked up with a start. It took his eyes a second to find their focus. “Heya Gwen. Heya Nikki. I’ve been waiting for you.”

Gwen’s eyes turned cold, “You’ve been waiting for us?” Nick felt her energy spike even though he had his shield up.

“It’s not like that Gwen. I need to talk to Nikki.”

Gwen’s eyes narrowed, “She told me you purposely made her late to line up.”

“I did.” Clem shrugged, “Can you give us a minute?”

“No way, asshole.”

Nick put a hand on Gwen’s arm. “It’s ok.”

“You sure?”

Nick looked at Clem. He’d never seen his friend look so glum. He sat on the bench next to Clem. Nick’s backpack landed next to him with a thud. “Go home, I’ll be fine.”

Gwen walked backward so she could face Nick and Clem as she continued down the sidewalk. “Do you remember where we live?”

Nick laughed. It was a fair question. He’d only been there once. “I’m sure I can find it.”

“If you’re sure.”

“I’m sure.”

Nick and Clem watched Gwen disappear down the sidewalk. “Your roommate is one scary witch.”

“She’s nice once you get to know her.”

“I know Gwen.” Clem said, “We met in the semifinals of last year’s under 18 Massachusetts state witching competition.”

“Who won?”

Clem smiled then laughed. “Who can remember the details of something that happened so far in the past.”

Nick smiled back. It was good to hear Clem laugh.

Clem asked, “Did I get you in trouble?”

“Some.”

“Sorry.”

Nick said, “It’s ok. I get the feeling they would have found something else to scream about if it wasn’t me.”

Clem nodded, “I had dinner with my sister.”

“Oh? How’d that go?”

Clem took a deep breath. “She laughed at me.”

“Really?”

“She said I’d been the family’s Chosen for the past six years.” Clem’s eyes looked at the ground. “She said all my brothers and sisters were looking forward to me being the black sheep of the family.”

“That’s harsh.”

“It’s fair looking back.” Clem sighed. “I never considered how they might feel about Mom and Dad’s obsession with me becoming Goody’s Chosen.”

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s not your fault.”

Nick shrugged, “It kind of is … my fault.”

“Yeah, I guess so.” Clem smiled. “Asshole.”

The pair sat on the bench with neither speaking for a long while. Nick stared up at the sky and to the moon, completely full if not for the slight sliver missing on one side. It felt good to sit under the stars and moon, their combined light giving a slight energy boost.

“Mom used a fire spell to destroy my clothes.”

Nick looked down from his stargazing. “She what?”

“She yelled at me for an hour straight. Dad won’t speak to me. Grandpa said he’s taking me out of his will.”

“That sucks.”

Clem sighed, “The crazy part is the only thing that bothers me is the clothes. I spent years collecting every piece and now they’re gone in a flash of smoke. Mom says I can’t wear women’s clothing at home and it’s not like I can wear them here.”

Nick nodded. He knew better than anyone the fear of being found out. “What are you going to do?”

Clem said, “My sister teased me all through dinner but got serious at the end. She said being rejected by the Phi Lambs gives me a chance to find myself. I suppose she’s right.”

Nick said, “You can come to our room and dress anytime if you want.”

“Thanks, I appreciate that.” Clem pointed down the sidewalk. “It’s getting late. Want to head home?”

“Yeah.” Nick tried to pick up his bookbag, its weight almost more than he could handle.

“Need some help?” Clem said, putting his hand on one of the straps.

“Sure.”

Clem lifted the bag as if it were made of paper, helping to place it on Nick’s back.

Nick said, “A real gentleman would carry my bag.”

Clem answered, “A real witch would know the spell to make the bag lighter.”

Nick realized he was taking two steps for one of Clem’s. “Can you slow down?”

“Sure.”

They settled into a leisurely pace, the two friends falling into old patterns. Nick looked up at Clem, staring at his face, his muscles, and places lower down.

Clem said, “You need to work on your shields if you’re going to try to sneak stares at me.”

Nick blushed, “Yeah … uhhh … well … there’s this Phi Lamb mixer on Saturday and you’re the only male witch I know.”

Clem shook his head. “I think it’s best if I avoid that place for a while.”

Nick nodded. “I understand.”

“I know someone who’d love to go with you.”

“Roger? No way.”

Clem said, “I know you like him too. When I helped him out of his daze, I realized the energies of lust weren’t all in one direction.”

“It’s not like that. He was my roommate.”

“You’ll never unlock your full potential if you lie to yourself.” Clem said, retrieving his phone from his pocket.

“What are you doing?”

Clem ignored him, speaking into the phone instead. “Hey dude. Meet me outside Allen Hall.”

Nick muttered under his breath. “Asshole. I told you I don’t like him.”

Clem clicked the button to hang up the phone. “If that’s true, then you’ll have no trouble passing a little test.”

Nick asked, “What are you proposing?”

“If you don’t have any feelings for Roger, then you should have no problem taking a short walk with Roger through Corey Park to your dorm … with your shields down.”

“I can do that.” Nick replied a little too quickly.

“We’ll see.”

Nick saw Roger’s goofy grin broaden as he exited Allen Hall. “Hey Clem. What’s up?”

Clem spoke in a most earnest manner. “The streets aren’t safe for a girl this time of night and Nikki needs someone to walk her to Hays Hall. I’d do it but I’ve got plans. Do you think you could help me out?”

“Of course.” Roger’s excitement couldn’t be more apparent.

“Great … well I’m off.” Clem said, “Nikki, aren’t you forgetting something?”

Nick did his best to smile as he removed his shield. “I’ll pay you back for this.”

Clem performed an over-dramatic bow . “No need. I’d never charge a fee where a lady’s safety is concerned.”

Roger asked, “Do you need help with your bookbag?”

The interruption took Nick by surprise. His books had gotten quite heavy. “If you don’t mind.”

“I don’t mind.” Roger said, a little too quick.

Nick let his bookbag fall from his shoulders, letting it hit the ground with a thud.

Roger asked, “What are you carrying in here?”

Oh shit. Nick remembered the thin black rod sitting on top of his books, “Most of my teachers are old school. They don’t believe in digital books.”

“That sucks.” Roger tossed the bookbag over his shoulder as they started to walk.

Nick snuck a peek at Roger. His roommate had always been the taller of the pair, even more so now. Broad shoulders. Tapered waist. He closed his eyes at the memory of the communal shower, along with the pull of energy from his friend.

“No!” Nick opened his eyes, catching Roger staring at his tits.

“Sorry.”

“It’s ok.”

“It’s not.” Roger declared. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me. It’s like I’ve lost my mind since I got to this school but I swear I’m not that guy.”
The realization hit Nick like a thunderclap. Roger had been drawn to this campus by Solomon's curse as well. “I’ve heard stories about you.”

"Oh?" Roger nodded, “I understand if you’d prefer to walk home alone.”

“It’s not that.” Nick said, “I was thinking we could make a detour to walk through Corey Park.”

Nick’s eyes nearly bugged out of his head. “Are you serious?”

Everyone on campus knew what ‘Going to Corey Park’ meant. It was late in the season to spend an evening under the stars but Nick heard resourceful couples took extra blankets.

“Unless you’d rather not.”

“No.” Roger shook his head. “I would … like to …go.”

The walk to Corey Park was longer than Nick realized. Probably because he’d never been to Corey Park.

They walked without speaking until Roger broke the silence. “I was thinking about what you said in class.”

“Oh?”

Roger said, “You’re right. I think Polk was a good president. Do you know he doubled the size of the United States?”

Nick smiled. He and Roger had this conversation many times. “I think the people of Mexico and the indigenous who lived in the area might have a quibble with Polk’s methods.”

“It was Manifest Destiny.”

Nick looked up at the moon and stars. Destiny is a strange concept. Was he always fated to be in this spot? Did actions and decisions before he was born leave him no choice? Was Roger always fated to be his roommate? Did their discussions create the feeling he now felt?

Nick said, “We’re almost to Corey Park. Everyone on campus knows what happens there. Are you sure this is the time and place for a discussion on the pre-Civil War United States?”

“I know. I’m an idiot but I’m trying to be better.” Roger said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve never been good at talking to girls. I come on too strong but when you sat next to me in class, it was like I’ve known you forever. I knew I could say anything to you and you’d understand. I could tell you’re different from the other girls.”

“Different?” A flood of every insecurity Nick had ever known pulsed in his core. “Why do you say that?”

“Because I like you and as crazy as it sounds, I think you like me too.”

Roger’s words struck Nick in the chest, its warmth spread throughout his body until it inflamed every hair on his head and tingled every one of his toes. Gwen was right. It did feel like being licked by a puppy dog.

Nick stopped walking, basking in feeling.

Roger’s passion turned to panic, “Did I say something wrong?”

“No.” Nick shook his head, “You did good.”

The two old roommates walked into the cover of Corey Park, the evening dark appearing darker here. Couples in various phases of becoming familiar with each other echoed through the woods, their energies wafting into the trees, the commingled essence raining down on Nick.
Gwen, Miss Applebottom, Patrice, and Clem were as different as four witches could be but all told the same truth. If he wanted to survive this new life, he had to change how he thought, how he acted, how he moved through this world. He’d have to kill his old habit of shrinking from the things that scared him and let life pass him by. He’d chosen sisterhood with all its strange magic and messy loyalty but for the first time in his life, he wasn’t going to run from the things that scared him. It had taken eighteen years but he’d found a place he belonged and he wasn’t about to do anything to screw that up.

“Wanna sit down?”

Roger’s head bowed as he answered, “Sure.”

They found a good spot near a secluded tree. As Nick sat, dew filled blades of grass tickled his bum, a reminder he still wore the top and short skirt meant for the Phi Lamb dining hall.

Gwen knew he’d left the house wearing this outfit wearing the house and hadn’t said a word. Clem had seen him in this outfit and now he’d invited Roger to Corey Park wearing it. What must he be thinking?

Shadows danced across his faces as they turned to face one another, their legs sitting close but not touching, not yet. Roger’s eyes drifted to Nick’s lips then up again, his stare making his intentions clear. Nick didn’t look away.

Roger leaned forward, his movement slow, too slow. Nick met him halfway, his eyes closing a moment before their lips touched. A whisper of breath passed between them and in the quiet of the trees it felt like the only sound in the world.

A second kiss followed and a third then more afterward. Roger’s energy crashed through Nick’s feeble attempt to keep them at bay, along with the lust and desire every eighteen year old boy carries in his core. Nick lay back on the grass, his hot skin unaware of the cold grass as Roger straddled his body.

“You ok?”

Nick nodded, unsure of the truth. “Yes.”

Roger’s next kiss wasn’t unsure, and neither were his hands as they slid under Nick’s skimpy top to find a bare breast. The touch sent a torrent of energy into Nick, by the time he regained control he saw the skimpy top laying on the ground next to him as Roger suckled his breast.

Nick’s moan was quiet but real, and when he heard it, something in him unraveled. Every breath was shared, every motion deliberate. Their bodies moved in unison in the kind of need that came from years of wanting something and never getting it.

Nick’s hand reached down, Roger’s audible ‘ahhh’ bringing a smile to Nick’s face when his found denim separating him from his goal. Nick sidled away from Roger’s grasp, moving down his body until he found the zipper allowing the object of Nick’s search to pop free.

“No.”

“What?” Nick couldn’t believe his ears.

“This is a mistake.”

“What do you mean?” Nick watched as Roger began zipping up his pants and adjusting his shirt.

Roger’s eyes grew intense. “I like you, Nikki. I was hoping we could take things slow.”

Roger’s energies coursed through Nick’s body making speech difficult. “I …”

Roger said, “I was thinking maybe we could have dinner on Friday. If that’s ok.”

It took all of Nick’s strength to keep from unleashing a torrent of energy on his friend. “Are you asking me out on a date?”

“Yes,” Roger stood, holding out a hand.

Nick stared at Roger’s hand. “I’m going to need some time.”

“I understand.”

Nick watched as disappointment filled his friend’s eyes. “Not about the date. I’d love to go on a date with you.” Nick looked down at his nearly naked body glistening in the moonlight. “I’m going to need a minute before I can get up.”

“OK.”

“I need to be alone if you don’t mind.”

“I can’t leave.” Roger said, “I told Clem I’d walk you home.”

“I’ll be ok.”

Roger said, “It’s not safe for girls at night on this campus.”

Grrrrr … one more nuisance girls had to deal with because men couldn’t control themselves. “Hays Hall isn’t far.”

“Are you sure?”

“I don’t need a white knight to save me.” Nick remembered the near coma he’d put Roger when they flirted in class. “I’ll be fine.

“If you’re sure.” Roger took a step back before giving Nick a broad smile he’d come to know so well. “See you Friday night?”

“You’ll see me sooner than that.”

“I will?”

Nick replied. “We’re in US History together on Friday. Save me a seat?”

“Oh yeah.” Roger's excitement showed on his face. “We can finalize our plans then.”

Roger walked backward, a silly grin painted on his face. He continued walking backward until disappearing in the darkness. Nick watched him go, his lips tingling from the memory and the over abundance of energy coursing through his veins.

Roger was right. These woods weren’t safe but not in the way he thought. Nick closed his eyes, calling out to the trees for their help. It took a while to clear his thoughts but eventually he found focus on the hum of maple and oak. These woods weren’t nearly as old as the one by Bishop Hall and its ability to help him find tranquility was not as effective. It probably didn’t help, these tree’s branches spent generations soaking in the passions of freshmen men and women.

Nick found his top sitting near a small pile of leaves. In a few weeks this place would be covered with them. In another month, the trees would be bare and not even the horniest souls would dare brave a half-naked night in the New England cold.

Nick knew he couldn’t go home. The repeating cycle of sex acts in his head turned him into some sort of sex fiend. Even if he made it out the woods without attacking a guy, it would be worse to get home and face Gwen’s mockery. No, better to take care of it here.

Nick felt around his bookbag. Even in the darkness, Miss Applebottom’s box wasn’t hard to find. The device inside felt foreign in his hands.
The piercing cold numbed Nick’s lips as he put it into his mouth. He got the dildo halfway in before his gag reflex kicked in. His second attempt returned similar results as did the third.

Nick slid his hand down the shaft, now covered in his saliva but no longer cold. Nick tentatively pressed the dildo against his new sex, his eyes widening at the alien sensation. His body yielded slowly, stretching to accommodate the unfamiliar intrusion as a soft moan sounded from Nick’s lips. His body tensed at the initial discomfort, but he didn't stop, he couldn't stop. Primal force drove him forward, every inch a reminder of his new reality.

The cool night air felt good against his exposed skin, but inside, a fire was building, a warmth that spread from his core outward. He took a deep breath, the scent of earth and leaves grounding him in the reality of the moment as he held the dildo inside him, his body trembling with a mix of anticipation and nervousness.

Nick slowly began to move the dildo, moving it in and out, his hand somehow knowing this new body’s song, each thrust sending waves of pleasure coursing through his body.

His mind raced, trying to grasp a situation unlike anything he’d ever known. His body responded instinctively, his hips arching slightly to meet each thrust, drawing the dildo deeper inside.

Words came without thought. “Oh god … oh god.”

Nick bit his lip, trying to stifle a moan as a jolt of pure ecstasy moved in waves through his body. Breath came in short gasps as everything moved with more urgency, each thrust building upon the last, his body on fire, every nerve ending alight with sensation.

The part of Nick’s mind still able to form rational thought spun out of control, a raw, primal need driving him forward as the energy within him built a pressure that demanded release, increasing the pace, as the dildo moved faster and deeper, each thrust sending waves of pleasure that left him gasping.

Nick's back arched as he drove deeper, a low moan escaping his lips as a wave of pleasure engulf him whole, the energy coursing through his veins erupting in a series of spasms, leaving Nick motionless on the cold earth, staring up at the heavens with an understanding nothing in his life would ever be the same.

Nik didn’t expect the tears. They came in a torrent leaving his face wet as the device grew cold. Extracting it caused a series of shivers, and a realization of an aching need he couldn’t control.

‘I’ve become a slut.’ Memories of touching Roger, Nik looking up ready to do anything to achieve satisfaction. Fear at what might happen next made the tears fall faster and a need to flee the scene as fast as possible.

Unsteady legs made standing impossible. A check of the area told his cries had been one of many. The voices of the trees were clearer now, their song reminding him of a song from a game he’d played in a forest not far from here.

Ashes in the barley,
Shadows on the wall,
Broomstick by the window,
Witches in the hall.
Mind the bell at sundown
Now run before she CALLS!

Nik smiled at the memory.

“Hello, my daughter. Is everything ok?”

“Goody?”

“Who else?”

“Patrice said you needed time to replenish your energy.”

“I always have energy to respond when one of my daughters' calls.”

Nik moved the item in his right hand behind his back and felt for the backpack with his left.

“You have nothing to be embarrassed about Nikki.”

Nik returned the dildo to the box before putting it in his backpack.

Goody said, “It’s too bad such devices didn’t exist in Purity. The world might have avoided so much unnecessary pain.”

“How so?”

“It takes time for young witches, much like young women, to understand their power. Experience is the only way to learn. I know I didn’t understand my power when it emerged. I often wonder if those who hung me had a point. I was a witch, brimming with power, only I didn’t know it. I’ve often wondered if my burgeoning power put me in that room with Solomon, initiating all that that followed.”

“That’s ridiculous. You can’t blame yourself.” Nik grew animated, “Solomon impregnated half the county. He was at fault.”

“So why were you crying when I arrived?”

“I…” Nik smiled at the realization of Goody’s verbal trap.

“Roger is no Solomon.”

“I’m worried he’s going to tell everyone I was on my hands and knees, begging to have sex.”

“Consider it a test of his worthiness. For his sake I hope he makes the right choice. It is never smart to get on the bad side of a witch, especially a young witch. Some of us have been known to react quite poorly to those who wrong us.”

“Are you speaking from experience?” Nik laughed, a weight lifting from overburdened shoulders.

“It is not easy for a young witch to understand their power. Only time can do that. I never got the opportunity to discover mine but I’m looking forward to helping you as you discover yours.”

“I need all the help I can get.”

“You’re doing fine. Better than most.”

“I am?”

Goody said, “It’s your first day and you’ve … learned a shield spell … improved your ability to control magic … met your sisters … joined the sorority … reconciled with Clem … and kissed a boy. I’d say that’s a full day.”

“I wanted to have sex with him. I wanted him to have his way with me. I lost control.”

“Did you?” Goody said. “You could have sent the energy back into him and made him do anything you wanted. You didn't do that. Isn’t that control?”

“I guess.” Nik said, conceding the point. “It's just ... I feel wrung out from the inside.”

“My Chosen experience trauma in both body and soul. Do you regret your decision to join me?”

“No. Of course not.” Nik said, pausing to search for words “Nothing is like I expected. I have to work twice as hard as I did before.”

“Welcome to life as a girl.” Goody said. “It’s a good thing there’s a simple solution.”

“What’s that?” Nik asked.

“Get to your feet as quick as you’re able whenever life has knocked you flat on your back.”

“That’s shit advice.”

“I meant now.” Goody’s voice took on a playful spirit. “Or at least put on a top, my daughter. You’ll catch your death in the night air.”

Nik looked down to see two large and very naked breasts. A quick search found the outfit's top, a pull and a tug bringing needed support and also warmth.

“Do you feel better now?”

“Some.” Nik said, while struggling to stand up, taking Goody’s advice literally.

“That’s my girl.”

Nik picked up the backpack, the contents as heavy as ever as they searched for the path out of the woods. “Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course.”

Sounds of couples echoed through the trees as Nik found the path to his new home. “Back home in New Jersey…” The place felt a thousand miles away at the moment. “... when I was all alone in the department store late at night … sometimes a voice would instruct me. It helped me out of my comfort zone.”

Goody didn’t answer until Nik crossed the treeline. “You know the truth. You said it in my sanctum. While Phi Lambda Phi protects the gallows stone, the true source of my power has always resided inside those who can hear my voice.”

“What about Clem?”

“Clementine is a curious case. She’s my daughter and a very strong witch with unlimited potential, the same as you. I tried to speak to her many times over the years but she couldn't hear me until I bathed in the light of the Harvest Moon. Perhaps things will be different now that she no longer is shackled by the expectations of family. She will need a friend. Perhaps that person can help her find her way to me.”

“Is that possible?”

“Anything is possible for a determined witch.”

Nik nodded, “I think I understand.”

“Excellent, then it is time for me to take my leave.”

“Wait … Goody? I need to tell you something.”

“Yes, my daughter?”

Nik basked in the glow of the night’s sky. A large universe shone overhead but Nik knew their place. “Thank you … for everything.”

Chapter 30

“What happened to you?”

Nik had walked up the path towards Hays Hall when a voice broke Nik out of their oblivion. It took a second to recognize the girl’s face. “Hey Cassy. What are you doing out here?”

“Can’t sleep.”

Nik looked at Cassy’s right hand. “I wonder why.”

Cassy held out the thermos. “Want some?”

“No, thanks.” Nik pointed at Hays Hall. “It’s been a long day and I’m going to bed.”

“Your loss.” Cassy unscrewed the cap and took a drink. “You didn’t answer my question.”

The pair walk towards their dorm. “It’s a long story.”

“A good story?” A grin grew on Cassy’s face. “I noticed you came down the path that goes to Corey Park. Any juicy secrets you want to share?”

“I kissed a boy.”

“That’s all that happened?”

“He asked me on a date.”

“That’s juicier.”

Nik stared at the twitchy girl standing beside him. How did Clem say it? ‘You can’t trust anyone in this world.’ Cassy was asking lots of questions, certainly probing for good gossip. Perhaps she wanted to engage in friendly banter - perhaps it was something more. But Nik’s instincts sensed a good heart.

“What are you doing Friday night?”

“I hadn’t given it much thought.”

“Wanna go on a date?”

Cassy gave Nik a queer look, “I thought you already had a date.”

“I do.” Nik nodded, “But I’m not sure if I can trust myself. I was thinking maybe we could double. My date has a couple of friends. They’re a bit nerdy but they’re both good guys.”

“Nerdy you say?” Cassy said, the revelation seeming to pique her interest. “What’s their majors?”

Nik shrugged, “I don’t know.” In all their conversations the topic had never come up. “I know Stanley likes science fiction.”

“Oh? Who’s he into?

“I remember seeing some Asimov on his bookshelf.”

Cassy brightened at the name. “OK. I’m in.”

“You’re in?”

“Sounds like fun.” Cassy replied. “Where are we going?”

“Not sure.” ” Roger might be pissed when he learned Nik made their single date into a double but he’d get over it. Nik looked up at the girl’s dormitory. The entrance to Hays Hall loomed large over the courtyard. Stanley and Gary would sing Roger's praises forever if Nik could turn a single date to the triple, never knowing the real friend who'd done them a solid.

Nik yawned. “I’ll text you the plans when we finalize them.”

“Okay.” Cassy offered her thermos. “Are you sure you don’t want some?”

“Nah. I need to get some sleep. I have a feeling tomorrow is going to be another long day.” Nik continued to stare at the building, trying to get a sense of the place. “I do need your help with a small problem.”“Oh?” Cassy said, “What’s that?”

“I don’t remember which room is mine.”

Cassy laughed. “Follow me. You live up the hall from me.”

Gwen didn’t look amused. “You want me to do what now?”

Nik yawned. “Gary’s a good guy.” Gwen hadn’t responded to Nik’s idea with the same level of enthusiasm as Cassy.

“Isn’t he the one who put underwear on his head?”

Nik laughed. Gary was always doing silly stuff. “Cassy is a better fit with Stanley and I can’t leave one of my mates behind.”

“What about Clem? I’d rather go with him.”

“I got the feeling he doesn’t feel the same about you. He said something about a tournament last year. ” Nik explained.

“I wondered if he remembered me.” Gwen smiled with a wicked laugh.

“Clem told me he needs time to figure things out. The last thing he needs is to hang out with some Phi Lambs.”

“Makes sense.” Gwen paused for a second. “But Gary?”

“Don’t be a snob.” Nik said, coming to the defense of his friend. “Gary’s a good dude once you get to know him.”

“You’re gonna owe me one.”

Nik gave Gwen a big hug. “I owe you more than one.”

Gwen blushed. It was nice to see her flustered for once.

Nik yawned, “I was thinking we could go to a department store Friday afternoon to find a cute outfit.”

Gwen laughed. “You’ve been in a girl’s body for less than a day and you already want to go shopping?”

Nik replied, “You know I’ve wanted to go shopping a lot longer than a day.”

Gwen gave a grudging nod, “That’s true.”

“Is that a yes?”

Gwen bobbed her head up and down. “Yes.”

“Awesome.” Nik gave Gwen another big hug. “You won’t regret it.”

“I already do.”

Nik started making a list. “Do you think we’ll have time to get our hair done? And a manicure?”

“Aren’t you forgetting something?”

Nik asked, “What?”

Gwen held up a Geology textbook. “You and I are supposed to study for Friday’s test.”

“Damn.” Nik yawned. “Can we do it tomorrow?”

Gwen shook her head, “I don’t think there’s any way you’ll be able to learn a month’s worth of geology in a single night.” She held up her other hand which held several pieces of paper.

“What’s that?” Nik asked.

“A copy of Friday’s test.”

“Where’d you get that?”

Gwen smiled. “Being a witch has its advantages.”

“Isn’t that cheating?”

“Are you majoring in Geology?”

Nik yawned. “I have no idea what I want to be.”

“Based on what I've seen in class, I doubt you’re going to be a geologist.” Gwen said, placing the test on Nik’s desk. “Make sure you miss a few questions. We wouldn’t want the prof to get suspicious.”

Nik’s eyes fluttered “Okay.”

“You should get to bed.”

“Yeah.” Nik said, undressing with every step as pieces of clothes hit the floor. Nik fell into bed wearing only panties. “Can you make sure I’m up by 430?”

“Sure.”

“Thanks, Gwen.” Nik said, her brain half in slumber. “You’re the best roommate a girl could ever want.”

Gwen pulled up the blankets. “Get some sleep, Nikki.”

Nikki didn’t hear the words as she was sound asleep. Tomorrow was sure to be another long day.

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Author’s post-note:

First - I want to thank Emma Anne Tate for her great feedback as I wrote this story. It wouldn’t be half as good without her help. Just like Nikki in the story, life is a lot easier when you have a Gwen helping you along the way.

Second - I’ve always wanted to write the cliched ‘Boy walks into a sexy sorority house and is turned into a horny girl’ story. I love the concept as it is easy to hit all the fun spots common in TG fiction but many of these stories struggle to make the change feel earned and my goal was to avoid that. Frankly I fear I went too far into the weeds at times trying to 'earn' Nikki’s horniness but I hope those who’ve made it this far enjoyed the tale.

Finally - If you enjoyed this story enough to want more, I’m afraid this is where I’m ending Nikki’s story. I liked the symmetry of ending the story where it started with Nikki going out with her friends, old and new. I also like that I’ve left Nikki in a world full of magic, a maybe boyfriend, and unlimited possibilities full of hope. In these uncertain times, it seemed like a good stopping point.

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