“So,” Laurie says as we bike back to her house in the dark, “you’re actually going on a date.”
“This is not a ‘date’ date,” I try to explain. “Just a couple of friends getting together to work on a project then hanging out at the fireworks with my favorite cousin.”
“Whatever,” she says with a knowing smile as if she’s not really buying the argument.
I hate intervals. I mean, I really hate intervals. We have been doing a set around the track at the high school that the Coach calls ‘locomotive’. You start off by running an easy mile to warm up, then you run all out for 220 yards, jog for 220 yards, run all out for a quarter mile (440 yards), jog for a quarter mile, run all out for half a mile, jog a quarter mile, run all out for three quarters of a mile, jog a quarter mile, run a fast mile, then do the reverse, running three quarters mile, half mile, a quarter mile then a 220, all spaced with quarter mile jogs. The finish is a half mile slow run. It is brutal if you do it the way it is supposed to be done. I’ve been running with a group of the guys–not the fastest group. One of the guys is really struggling to stay with us, so I hang back a little giving him some encouragement. I think that he is a bit depressed that a girl can outperform him. The other girls are skipping the middle mile run in order to finish in a reasonable time. Coach Arnold is running with us. He claims that he’s getting old so he’s running with my group instead of the front runners.
I’ve always liked Coach Arnold. He has a positive way of encouraging his team to do their best. It is plain to see that he really cares for his runners and they respond positively. Still, he doesn’t sugar-coat anything. He has the rare ability to tell you what you’re doing wrong and making you want to do it right next time.
Something that I hadn’t noticed before is that his approach with the girls is different than with the boys. He seems to be gentler in his encouragements when working with the girls. This seems strange to me as now I am being treated as one of the girls. I must say that I prefer the kinder approach.
As we start the final jog, Coach Arnold falls in step with me.
“Tina, I’m really impressed,” he says with a tone of sincere respect in his voice. “The team is right. You’re really good. Not only are you a good runner but you’re also a team player. I thought you did a great job helping that boy get through the run.”
“Thanks, Coach,” I reply. “But I really didn’t do very well and I needed the break that helping him gave me.”
“Are you sure that you’re not related to Chris Quinn?” he asks not expecting an answer. “That’s just the answer I’d expect from him. You can always do better, but I think that you did great today. You’re performing at a level far above the average girl runner your age. I’ve noticed how your example has the girls working harder than normal, particularly Caitlin over there. I understand that you two have become friends. I must say that I see a much needed positive change in her attitude. You must be a miracle worker.”
“Caitlin?” I ask. “I think you can attribute her changed attitude to having to learn to be of service at McDonalds. I didn’t do anything special.”
“Whatever,” he responds. “All I know is that, since you’ve shown up, the team is working like never before and Caitlin is going through a character shift for the good.”
“Just good timing?” I suggest.
“Maybe,” he replies with a smile. “Just keep it up. Are you sure that you can’t transfer here?”
“No,” I reply. “I really need to get back to my family and my old life at the end of the summer.” I’m sure that he didn’t catch the full meaning of my response–at least I hope not.
At the end of the run, we all collapse on the grass in the shade of the bleachers. Everyone is covered in sweat–no simple ‘just perspiration’ here.
“Anyone interested in a pool party at my house Saturday afternoon before the fireworks?” Caitlin asks the group after catching her breath.
The question is met enthusiastically by the majority of the group. Only a couple of us can’t make it due to other commitments.
When I let the group know that I’m already committed on Saturday a couple of the guys try to get me to change my plans. Finally, Dan pipes up with “Hey, we can’t have a party without Tina. Caitlin, can we move it to Friday night? We can either skip or shorten our workout?”
“Don’t change your plans on my account; I’m only a visitor,” I protest. “I’d love to hang out with you all but you shouldn’t work around my schedule.”
The boys in particular don’t seem to agree with me. Caitlin doesn’t have a problem with the change so the idea gets kicked around by the group. Still not everyone can make it, but the majority decided that Friday is better than Saturday. Everyone agrees to bring food to contribute. It is agreed that we can each bring a friend along if we’d like. So, a party is born. Caitlin doesn’t seem to worry that her parents might have other plans.
“Aren’t you the popular one,” Caitlin comments when we get to her house. “I could get jealous, you know. I don’t think that they’d change an event just so I could be there.”
“Honest,” I defend myself, “I’m not trying to be the center of attention. I just don’t understand why I’m not invisible any more. It’s probably just the ‘new girl in town’ effect. Anyway, you’re a lot cuter than I am.”
“Yeah, right,” she dismisses my argument. “You’re a regular hottie. I’m just good old Caitlin–the bitchy girl in tight clothes. Since when were you ever invisible? Girl, you can’t tell me that you aren’t popular back in Alaska.”
“Hey, you’re a cool girl–and you could change the way you dress if you want to–but, honest,” I try to convince her, “I’m nobody special in Alaska. Like I said, it’s just the new-girl-in-town syndrome. I’m sure you’d be the talk of the town if you were to come back to Anchorage with me.”
“Maybe,” she admits, “but I doubt it. Like I said, I could be jealous if wasn’t for the fact that you’re just so innocent. Or is that naive? Anyway, I can’t put my finger on it, but you’re really a different girl–in a good way. Whatever it is, when it comes to boys you’re like honey to bees. You’re cute, smart, friendly and seem to be get along with everyone. I’d love to hate you, but I like being around you. I feel like becoming a nicer person when you’re around.”
Wow. Where did that come from? I guess that we’re getting closer as friends than I thought. I am really starting to like her as well–as a friend.
“I love you too, girl friend,” I admit. It’s a Kodak moment as we give each other a hug. Expressions of closeness are not something that I’d never have dreamed to say or do with one of my guy friends when I was a boy. It’s strange but it also feels right.
What am I thinking? What if Dr. Sommers is the leak? How in the world could I hurt my new friend by turning him in? This could be getting complicated.
---<>---
I don’t stay long at the Sommers, but agree to help Caitlin organize the party on Friday. I’ll try to get off work early that day to help.
When I get back home–the Mercer house really is feeling like home now–I find Laurie working on this week’s questionnaire which reminds me to do the same. I take my laptop out to the back patio to enjoy the evening air while I work. Along with the questionnaire is another request to penetrate secure areas. Also, I receive direction to learn more about the Sommers’ personal activities. In the comments portion at the end, I mention my plans to go to the Lang home on Saturday to establish contact there. There is not even a hint that they got the planted items I sent yesterday.
As I’m finishing up my computer work, Laurie quietly comes out and signs to me that she’d like to take a walk with me. It takes me a few minutes to finish, close down the computer, take it to my room, and meet my best friend out on her front step.
As we stroll down the street we bring each other up to date on what’s happening in our individual lives. She’s been working some on her watercolors and has been hanging out with Amy while I've been running and visiting with Caitlin. She tells me that she's thinking about inviting Amy, Cindy, and Marjorie over Friday night for another slumber party and asks me to join them. At this point I tell her about the pool party at Caitlin’s.
“You’re a pretty busy girl,” she comments without enthusiasm. “We don’t seem to get a lot of time together.”
I sense that Laurie is feeling a little left out.
“I know what you mean,” I agree. “It looks as if this job is becoming a twenty-four hour a day effort. Hey, girl, why don’t you come with me to the party? Everyone else is bringing a friend, I’m sure that you’d be more then welcome”
“I don’t know,” she waffles, “I’m not really part of that crowd.”
“If Chris invited you,” I point out, “you’d be there in an instant. You know most of the kids from hanging out with Chris last year.”
“I’ll think about it,” she relents.
“Please,” I make puppy eyes at her, like she used to with Chris so often. “Pretty please? Maybe you’ll see something that I don’t which will help the investigation. We can be a team.”
“Okay,” she laughs, “I’ll go with you. But no making out in the corner like the last of these events that we went to together.”
We walk along quietly for a few minutes before she speaks again. “I’m feeling like we won’t get to spend much time together this summer as you’re making some new good friends that you have to keep an eye on.”
“I know,” I agree sadly, “Actually, I have to admit that I’m enjoying spending time with Caitlin. We’re becoming close friends–in fact, tonight she pretty much admitted that I’m her new best friend. I like her a lot too–as a friend. This Andy thing has gotten me worried, but at least he seems to be a really good guy. The main problem with all this is that I don’t spend enough time with my best friend of all.” I put my arm around her shoulders and give her a friendly hug.
“I agree,” she sighs. “I had visions of us spending all our free time together this summer. It’s just that you’ve had a lot less free time than I have. I understand the need for you to do these things, but I want to be a bigger part of your life this summer.”
“You wouldn’t consider taking up running, would you?” I ask, already anticipating the answer. I’ve tried this before without success. Laurie is just not into running or sports in general.
“I’m almost tempted,” she says, “but I’d never get in shape enough to enjoy it by the end of the summer even if I wanted to.” That’s the closest she’s every come to considering running. She must really be feeling left out.
“How about this: let’s spend Saturday together before going over to Andy’s house,” I suggest. “just you and me.” I really would like to spend more time with her too.
“Great idea. It’s a date,” she grins as she quotes my comment to Andy.
After talking about what we’d like to do we decide to take the train into San Francisco and spend Saturday morning hanging around the city for several hours. We just need to talk Aunt Jen into giving us a ride to the station and pick us up when we’re done. We’ll do some sightseeing, maybe some shopping–that’s Laurie’s idea, but it sounds more interesting that it did a few weeks ago–and have lunch at our favorite place in China Town. The trip will be keeping in character with showing the out-of-town relative around. It’s also just what the doctor ordered for maintaining my most important relationship.
When we arrive back at the house, Aunt Jen has already gone to bed so we’ll have to wait until tomorrow to ask about the ride situation.
I give Laurie a hug as we part to go to our rooms. “Thanks for being there for me, girl friend,” I whisper in her ear. “I love you.”
She gives me a big squeeze and replies with sincerity, “I love you too, girl.”
As I get ready for bed I hardly notice the flimsy pink baby doll nightie and matching panty that I grabbed out of my drawer–my mind is on these strange new relationships that I have with Laurie and Caitlin. I’ve seen the closeness of girl friends before, but it is altogether another thing to experience it. I realize that my relationship with Laurie, as Tina, is different that my relationship with her as Chris. In some ways it is so much nicer. It seems we have more in common now, but the romance is gone. I’m not really sure which relationship is better.
I get a warm feeling when I think of having such close friends as Laurie and Caitlin that I can talk to. I had close friends as a guy, but this is different–much different–and I really like it. I’ll hate to see these relationships go at the end of the summer even though I am looking forward to getting the romance back.
---<>---
A knock at my bedroom door arouses me from my deep sleep. “Wake up, sleepy head,” Aunt Jen calls, “We’ll be late for work if you don’t get moving.”
Ugh. I’m sore all over from yesterday’s training. I really hate interval training–honest! All this evening activity is also robbing me of my early morning person reputation.
Laurie is in the shower as I stumble into the bathroom and sit on the toilet to relieve myself. I figure that I can do it if she can. As I’m washing my hands, the water in the shower goes off and Laurie throws back the shower curtain as she reaches for her towel.
“Don’t stare,” she admonishes me as she catches me watching her via the sink mirror. She is stark naked. “It’s not ladylike. After all, I don’t have anything that you don’t. Sexy nightclothes by the way. The baby doll looks really good on you.” Yep, the rules have definitely changed.
“I’m not staring,” I defend my actions, “just looking. I was thinking that I’m glad my breasts aren’t as full as yours. Fuller breasts would make running even more difficult. Can I use the shower now?”
“Sure,” she replies, “I’m sure there’s still some hot water left. By the way, I like my fuller breasts and I think that Chris does too.”
“Oh,” I reply, “take it from me. He does like them–on you.”
Since nakedness is now okay, I quickly strip off my clothes and hop in the shower while Laurie finishes drying herself.
“What’re you going to wear today?” she asks as I start up the shower.
“I don’t know,” I reply, “Any suggestions?”
We discuss the options for a couple of minutes before deciding on skirts and tops that will allow us to look somewhat coordinated. In fact, she ends up borrowing one of my tops.
---<>---
I know that it’s only been a couple of days, but I keep watching for someone to look as if they’ve been chewed out about the ‘breach’ of security that I ‘discovered’ on Tuesday. So far there is no indication of any corrective measures being taken. These things must take time.
At lunch we meet up with Aunt Jen in the cafeteria. We notice Tiff over in a corner with her current love interest–or should I say target? They are obviously enjoying each other’s company. I wonder if he’s asked her out yet.
The rest of the afternoon passes uneventfully. The big report project at the Ignition Facility is over, but several of the staff are taking the rest of the week off so I will definitely be working here until Friday. I call Mrs. Harrison to see if I can take Friday afternoon off and to make arrangements for our Sunday run. She calls me back after checking with the people that I’m working for.
“Tina,” she tells me, “you are free to go Friday at lunch time. Laurie can go too. By the way, how do you like working at the Ignition Facility?”
“It’s alright I guess,” I reply, “the work’s not too challenging, but the people are very pleasant to work with. I’m not sure if I’m doing you any good over here, so if you have someplace you’d like me to be, just send me there.”
“The Ignition Facility people are pretty pleased with your efforts,” she informs me. “In fact, they’ve asked if they can keep you for the summer. We can talk more about it Sunday, but I’m thinking about letting them have you. I think that there’s plenty of work for you do while you’re there.”
Toward the end of the day, Dr. Lang comes through the office with another member of the team. He doesn’t give me the time of day. I get the impression that he doesn’t take notice of staff or those who are there to serve him. I am requested–actually more like ordered–to bring them coffee in the conference room that they are using. His people skills can use some work.
---<>---
Caitlin pulled another evening shift, so I got home earlier than usual after the evening workout. The three of us decide to go hit a sale at the store that Marla works. Aunt Jen must have called Mom Quinn as she and Tiff are there when we arrive. Walking into the Junior’s section sends a chill up my spine as I remember the last time that I was here. That visit almost a month ago but in many ways seems like an eternity ago. Laurie sees the trepidation in my eyes and gives me a reassuring squeeze.
Marla is helping another customer find a skirt when we arrive but she excuses herself for a minute and comes over to give me a big hug when she sees us.
“It’s so good to see you here again, Tina,” she whispers in my ear. “I was afraid that returning here might be too traumatic for you.”
“You’ve got to confront your fears, ya know,” I tell her. “Actually, I’m okay with the change now. I can play the part for the summer.”
Later while I’m looking through a sales rack for new skirt, Mom Quinn quietly asks, “How’s it going, Chris? I miss you and I’ve been worried about how you’re adjusting.”
“It’s good, Mrs. Quinn,” I reply. She winces a little at the formality. “I really miss you too, but I’ve adjusted pretty well and am actually finding the new disguise to be kinda fun. Being a girl is not really all that bad. I can’t wait until we have the time so that I can share with you all the adventures we’ve been having. Anyway, for now I’ve decided to relax and go with the flow.”
“Aren’t you worried about the transition back?” she asks.
“Naw, not really. While I’m enjoying myself right now, I am looking forward to getting back to my old self in August.” I reply as I hold up a nice denim skirt to my waist. “Do you think this skirt is too short?”
“You really are acting like a normal teen girl,” she observes, “and, yes, that skirt is too short for a daughter of mine. Just remember–we’re here for you if you need us.”
Putting the skirt back on the rack, I tell her, “I know, Mom, and I really appreciate that. I love you guys. Can you help me find a skirt that I can wear while hanging out with my new girl friends? I’m looking for something cute but not overly feminine that is still reasonably modest.”
We spend an hour slowly moving through the store. I make sure that everything that I try on is something that Laurie likes. After all, she’ll inherit my growing wardrobe at the end of the summer. It’s actually fun to work together on this shopping. In the end, I go home with a couple of tops, a new pair of slacks for work, two matching bra and panty sets, and a short cotton night shirt for the warm nights. I couldn’t find a skirt that I liked. Laurie got the same lingerie and a similar night shirt so that ‘we can be twins’.
Arriving home, we spend time in my room trying on–again–the clothes that we bought. It’s a good thing that we’re essentially the same size as we try on each other’s purchases. The whole time we are discussing the various combinations that can be made and the occasions for which they are appropriate. We get tired before we run out of discussion.
Lying in bed as sleep begins to claim me, I smile to think how good life is right now. I just wish I knew what is really going on out at the Lab. I’m feeling happy that I’ve had this opportunity to spend the summer with my girlfriend. It’s not every boy that gets parental approval to hang around his girlfriend when she’s naked.
---<>---
I’m not sure why anyone bothered to come to work today. Half the office seems to be gone and the rest don’t seem in any hurry to get anything done. There is a lot of visiting going on. I suppose that it’s the letdown after completing a big project coupled with the fact that this is a four-day holiday weekend. It seems that everyone has big plans for the weekend. By noon, most people are finding excuses to leave early. No wonder we’re allowed to have the afternoon off.
After a quick lunch at home, Laurie and I spend some time making cookies for the party before heading over to Caitlin’s by bicycle. I’m wearing my running clothes and have a day pack with my swimming stuff and a change of clothes. While we’re out running Laurie is going by the art shop to confirm our ‘date’ with Andy tomorrow and to pick up some more watercolor supplies. She’s really getting into the painting.
Caitlin is mowing the yard when we get to her house. She’s none too happy about it, but I guess that her brothers got out of the chore since they claimed that they didn’t ‘have’ to do it until Saturday and if Caitlin wanted it mowed she’d either have to do it herself or pay them double. Did I mention that the Sommers’ boys are little snots? There doesn’t seem to be a lot of love lost amongst the Sommers’ siblings.
While Caitlin finishes the yard we go inside to see what we can do to help. After introducing Laurie to Mrs. Sommers we are put to work making lemonade and other treats for the party.
While helping to straighten up the public areas of the house, both Laurie and I keep our eyes open for anything that might look out of place. The only things which seem even remotely connected with the case are a few mementoes which appear to be Arabic in nature. While admiring them, Laurie ask Mrs. Sommers where they’re from.
“Those were given to my husband when he was in Baghdad a couple of years ago,” she replied.
“Baghdad?” I ask as I go over to see what they are examining. “That sounds dangerous. I don’t think that I’d like to go there right now. I hope that he was in a safe place.”
“Well,” she replied, “not as safe as I would’ve liked. He was over there for three months helping to implement some of his work. Sometimes, in his spare time he worked with other volunteers to help needy families repair their homes. That wasn’t at all safe.”
“I bet you were happy to get him home,” Laurie observed.
“Oh, I was,” she stated. “I know that I’m selfish, but I really hate it when he puts himself in harm’s way. He has a good heart and can’t seem to resist helping someone that needs it. He didn’t have to leave the secure compound, but he let the people work their way into his heart and he into theirs. They gave him this vase made by one of the women that he helped. The small rug over there was also made by some of the people he worked with.”
“Cool,” I say, “Does he still keep up with these people?”
“He tried to, for a while,” she responded, “but eventually most of them quit responding. There’s one man who still corresponds from time to time, but we don’t really know what happened to the rest. We just hope that they’re alright. I know that my husband worries about them often.”
“It sounds as if he really made a difference over there,” Laurie mentions.
“Oh, he did,” she replied. “It seemed to make a difference in him too. He’s much more compassionate than he was before his trip. He also seems to have become more committed to his work. That’s why he didn’t take off early like most of his colleagues today. It would seem that whatever he does out there he sees as helping to fight oppression and he really immerses himself in it.”
“Wow,” I say in awe. “I hope that I can find something to do with my life that will make that kind of a difference.”
“You are already, Tina,” she smiles at me. “Caitlin is becoming more like her old wonderful self now that you’re around. I don’t know what you’ve done, sweetheart, but we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping our girl.” She gives me a quick hug.
“I don’t think that I had much to do with it,” I reply returning the hug. “She’s basically a great girl and a nice friend. What I meant is I’d like to make a difference in the world.”
“Sometimes our biggest impact is in the lives of the individuals around us, but I’m sure that you will have a broad impact on the world, Tina,” she assures me, “and you too, Laurie, but for now, we better see what we can do to make a difference for this party.”
So, Dr. Sommers has Middle East contacts. I believe they would call that ‘opportunity’. He definitely has the ‘means’ since he has access to all sorts of secret information. The question is whether or not he has the ‘motive’. You need all three to prove that there might be a problem. Still, I can’t see a good hearted man like him sending secrets to the enemies of freedom. I’ll have to share the recording of this conversation with the security team. Hopefully they can check on this contact to see that there is no harm being done there.
By the time we need to head over to the school for running, we’ve finished straightening up the yard and pool, set up tables for the food, and hauled a stereo system outside. I must say that the setting looks pretty nice.
---<>---
“Hey, Tina, slow down,” Ben calls to me. “This is supposed to be a light workout.”
We’ve only been about a mile and it seems that everyone is wanting to quit. Nobody’s heart seems to be in the workout today. They all want to head to the pool.
“Come on guys,” I respond, “the pool will feel better after a good run.”
This comment is met with groans and general mutiny. It’s not worth the fight.
“I tell you what,” I say to the group as I slow down. “Why don’t you all just circle back to the school then head over to Caitlin’s once you’ve got your stuff. I’ll just run to her house.”
I was riding with Caitlin anyway so I don’t have to go back to the school to get a car or anything. I was planning to shower at her house anyway.
“Great idea,” says one girl, “but Caitlin’s house is like five miles away. Are you sure that you should run that far alone?”
It’s not really that far–more like four and a half miles– but I bite my tongue to keep from telling her I used to do more than that by myself all the time. Of course, I was a boy then but they don’t need to know that.
“I’ll run with her,” Ben announces.
“Me too,” Dan adds quickly.
Do I sense a little competition for my attention? Sounds like Alaska all over again. Suddenly, Ben doesn’t seem so tired anymore.
“What about your stuff back at the school?” I ask the guys.
“Someone else can bring it,” Dan says, then makes arrangements for it to happen.
“Well,” I tell the girl with a grin, “with these two bodyguards I should be alright–that is if they can keep up.”
With that, our plan swings into action and I take off at an accelerated pace with my two bodyguards. After a mile at a fast pace I can tell that my companions are starting to struggle–and so am I–so I ease off the pace. As Ben said earlier, there is no real rush. The two guys are getting macho on me so I’m sure that they won’t be the ones to ask to slow down.
“How are you guys doing?” I ask as everyone gets their breath back.
“Fine,” they both answer, somewhat breathlessly. I’m not really convinced.
The conversation is limited as we finish the run. We talk about why we like running and other general topics. I get the sense that the boys are each annoyed with the other’s presence–a sure sign that they are both interested in furthering a boy/girl relationship. I, for one, am glad that both of them are there. It’s a lot better than one.
We actually arrive at Caitlin’s before the rest of the crowd. The guys just collapse on the grass under a shady tree as I start into my cool down stretching routine.
“Hey,” I ask, “aren’t you guys going to do some stretching? It’s important to keep your muscles loose after you run.”
“Naw,” says Ben, “We’ll just watch you do it for us. You look a lot better doin’ it than we do.”
The lecherous bastard. I respond with a look that could kill.
“Ben, it’s no wonder you don’t have a girlfriend,” Dan says disapprovingly.
“What?” Ben asks in confusion. “I just gave her a compliment.”
Ignoring the idiot, Dan joins me for some stretching. I make sure to keep Dan between me and the lecherous bastard, so I don’t give him any cheap thrills as I do my stretches.
“You know,” Dan says to me quietly to avoid being overheard. “Ben is, despite his crudity, actually correct. You are very good looking and, to top it off, easy to be around. You’re really making this summer something special for all of us. I’m glad you came. Are you sure you can’t stay?”
“Thanks for the compliment,” I quietly reply, “but, no, I can’t stay. Anyway, I haven’t really done anything to earn the praise.”
“Sure you have,” he responds. “You are like a cool breeze on a hot day. Just being here makes everything better. Too bad you’re not staying. I think that we’d make great friends, you and me.”
Oh no! Where’s the fire extinguisher? Somebody has to put out this guy’s fire–fast!
---<>---
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Comments
Not so strange...
... that 'Tina' hasn't heard or seen any response to the planted document.
If the leak is indeed within the Security team, then that person has probably passed it on or whatever. If only one person is acting as the filter for all these recordings and things Laurie and 'Tina' find and that same person is the leak, I doubt they'd raise the alarm about a security breach. More likely, they'd act as if it never happened. The only true way to see if the bait was taken, is to find evidence of that document outside the Labs and try to trace it back.
I don't have a good feeling how 'Tina' is being pressured into recording in a restricted area or being asked to delve into the personal life of Dr. Sommers. Is this request regarding Dr. Sommers, legit or an effort to get dirt on him in order to remove him from the Labs?
Notice how Dr. Lang is still abrupt? Is it just because neither girl has gotten as close to him like Tina has with Dr. Sommers, or is he got something to hide?
It almost seems like Susan's decision to keep Tina at one location for the summer, isn't again what was originally laid out at the beginning of all this. Wasn't Kris/Tina, as an intern, supposed to 'float' in different areas, wherever needed? Seems by keeping her in one spot, it reduces her intell gathering 'worth'. Is that Susan's intent or does she have good reason to suspect the leak is there?
It'd be interesting to see how the upcoming run with Dr. Quinn develops and if he can shed any light on anything going on in the Labs. Weren't they supposed to meet up later to discuss any developments in their 'sting' operation?
It sounded as if the relationship with Chris was becoming a distant memory between Laurie and 'Tina'. References to him seemed almost 'forced' and any thinking of their planned time together tended to be thought of as girl friends and not as a way to try to keep their reltionship alive.
That is, until 'Tina' whispered an "I love you" to Laurie. I personally think that it was meant in the same spirit that "Chris" would say it.
But how was Laurie's response of "I love you too, girl", meant? By adding 'girl' to her sentiment, did she mean 'girl' as in 'best girl friend' (which changes the meaning of the whole statement) or 'girl' as in 'girlfriend'? Is she now starting to think of 'Tina' and not Chris as a love interest?
Finally, it's nice to see 'Mom Quinn' and Marta trying to connect with 'Chris' on a discreet family level, but it seems Amanda's having a wee bit of appehension about Chris' return at the end of summer. This doesn't appear to show as much confidence in the process as she appeared to have, earlier on.
>> “Aren’t you worried about the transition back?†she asks. <<
After talking to Chris about being a girl and hearing 'her' responses, it almost seems as if Mom is now accepting she will have a daughter at the end of summer. Even a 'Freudian slip' has a basis in reality.
>> “You really are acting like a normal teen girl,†she observes, “and, yes, that skirt is too short for a daughter of mine. Just remember—we’re here for you if you need us.†<<
At least Tina's still thinking she'll be gone at the end of the summer, but how does that sit in her mind? On one hand, she still will call Amanda 'Mom' and acknowledges 'her' place as a Quinn ...
>> Putting the skirt back on the rack, I tell her, “I know, Mom, and I really appreciate that. I love you guys. Can you help me find a skirt that I can wear while hanging out with my new girl friends? I’m looking for something cute but not overly feminine that is still reasonably modest.†<<
... but does she still believe 'Tina' will be physically gone and replaced by Chris/Kris Quinn at the end of the summer, or she coming to believe what she's saying ... that she's actually going to return to Anchorage as Kris Jeffers?
She's sending out mixed signals on that idea.
Questions.... questions and more questions. Keep it up, Tiff!
PB
Girlification Alert
I couldn't help but notice two things - one - a number of typos are getting past proof reading, secondly Tina is now more naturally and instinctively acting like a girl, at this point it seems unlikely that male Chris will return and if she is to become a Quinn - exactly how are they going to explain this? In order to retain the friendships and relationships she has developed she will need to remain as Kristina Jeffers - but how do they explain Kristina Jeffers becoming Kristina Quinn? Adoption? This could get messy. If Tina goes away it will destroy Caitlin who obviously has grown deeply attached to someone that is good for her, it could get worse if Caitlin and Tina enter into a romantic relationship - the whole thing looks like it will become emotionally painful one way or another for Kris/Tina at the end of Summer, she will need to say goodbye to a life she loves - one way or another.
The nature of Monkey is - Irrepressible!!!
The nature of Monkey is - Irrepressible!!!
Possibly..
Assuming Kristine Quinn is the final identification for our hero(ine), they could 'tinker' with her documentation the same way they did for Kristina Jeffers. All they would really need are school records (only alter the personal data on Chris' records, keeping the academic records intact and factual), a birth certificate and Social Security Number (both were supplied for Kristine Jeffers). Kris Quinn would then get her driver's license, etc. in the normal manner.
Since Chris is due to graduate HS after one semester and start College (to join Laurie - who leaves in Sept. - at the same College), any 'tinkering' with Chris' HS records would also mean that 'her' acceptence records at the College would also be given the same treatment. I'm sure all this stuff is in the realm of possibility considering programs like the Federal Witness Protection program probably deal with things like this for family members, right now.
The only 'awkward' moments would be the Quinns and how they deal with the new daughter, in terms of extended family and friends/neighbours - if they remain where they are. Do they move, get offered new jobs with the Labs but maybe another location? I dunno.
I guess the Quinns could also explain Kristine as Chris commencing her RLT. Instead of going through the hassle of hacking in to the school records to change things, the Labs could 'produce' a 'legal' bit of documentation for the name/gender change and let Chris' records legally change. (Just a thought)
Kris Jeffers returning to Alaska at the end of summer would only be another part of life for Caitln. Nothing (unless a major hitch with the Labs) say Kris Jeffers has an obligation to remain. If she did, it'd ease things if Tina remained with Jen and the story would likey be that she was finishing school in CA.
Suddenly showing up in Alaska as the 16yr old long lost, 'natural' daughter (given Tina's DNA now matches the Jeffers) of the Jeffers would be just as awkward for them as a new daughter would be for the Quinns, as long as the Major was posted to his current position.
Kris Quinn wouldn't have to replace Kris Jeffers in any friendships since Kris Quinn is going to leave them behind, anyway - if she goes to College as Chris planned. Tina's friends will still be in HS while Chris/Kris will be in College (if things work out).
PB
You're a year ahead of schedule...
Just to set the record straight, we get the following from chapter four:
"This is Laurie’s last summer as a high school student. She will be a senior next year. I'll be a junior though I'm ahead in credits. I hope to graduate a semester early and join her at college midway through her Freshman year."
This means that Chris is a year and a half away from leaving for college.
BTW... the speculation is quite fun!
Tiff Q
Tiff Q
I stand corrected..
.. Thank-you.
Last night I thought a bit more about the upcoming story and one thing that popped out was their trip to San Franciso.
When the girls want some privacy, they've always ditched their cell phones lest the Labs have the abilitiy to remotely record. Wonder if they'll do just that for the trip into the city?
Maybe one or both should take the opportunity to get a second (normal) cell phone that they can use when they leave/hide their Labs-issued phones (lest Jen find them and make a stink about it)and go off alone. That would give them the privacy they want, with a means of communication when needed - like to call Jen to pick them up at the train station.
Of course, the 'security-team' wouldn't need to know about these new phones.
Also, since Chris and Laurie have obviously been there a few times -at least enough times to find a 'favourite' restaruant, will this trip be a trip down memory-lane and transfer/spark the 'distant' romance that was between Chris and Laurie, to Kris and Laurie? They both (most recently Laurie), seem to be quietly questioning if it will be 'Chris and Laurie' or 'Kris and Laurie', in August.
Laurie also seems to be seeing Kris' original fears expressed back in Alaska, of relaxing and just 'going with the flow' equating to losing "Chris", materializing. Like Amanda, she appears to be starting to accept or at least recognize the distinct possibility that it will be 'Kris Quinn' who appears in August and not 'Chris Quinn'. It's still not conclusive if that notion is agreeable to her or not. So far, I'm inclined to think it is.
When 'Tina' whispered "I love you", I think the intimate sentiment originated in Chris' mind and was not offered as one girl would say it to a 'girl friend' (like Tina did with Caitln).
Laruie's response, as I've already stated, could be taken a few ways, but it was the first time she used the word "love" - and she knew exactly who she was talking to. Considering the tone and subject of their previous conversation and the added 'girl' to the end of her statement ... it wasn't 'Chris'.
Amanda's conversation with 'Chris' at the store seemed to show some doubts in her initial confidence in getting her son back intact and that she was warming to the idea that she now had a third daughter. Indeed, Tina was more concerned with finding that perfect skirt, than talking about her transition and life as a girl, with her mom.
PB
Jeffers --> Quinn
Although Kristina doesn't look anything like Chris, if Chris stayed as Kristina once the 'project' was over, it might be hard to (outwardly, at least) go back to having the Quinns as parents.
However, it could perhaps be 'discovered' (i.e. fabricated) that the Jeffers and Quinns are related - sort of fabricate the two families as two branches of the same family - c.f. Drew Bond / Maddy Peters in the "Gaby" series.
As for reverting to Chris at the end of the 'project', even if (as many suspect) Kristina remains, then at least allow her to have some 'tomboy' time as well as 'girly' time, so s/he doesn't entirely lose touch with that side of his/her personality.
(One problem with this kind of story - lack of appropriate pronouns - neither 'male' or 'female' are entirely appropriate, neither would 'gender neutral' if such a thing existed!)
But skipping back to the present, if Kris / Laurie get a decent amount of evening time together, perhaps listen to the recordings from when Kris is socialising with the boys and try to educate Kris as to how she is attracting all the boys without trying. Only once Kris realises how it's happening can she attempt to do something about it whilst straying away from the stereotype the rest of the girls are portraying. Or at least, be able to share some of the secrets with the rest of the girls, so they can work on offering some decent competition!
--Ben
As the right side of the brain controls the left side of the body, then only left-handers are in their right mind!
Nice
I'd almost given up on this series after the first episode or two. It seemed too confused and surreal, though I understand why that was so. In any event, I'm glad I stuck with it, and look forward to more.
Mir
So Many Questions!!
Thanks, Tiff for another great chapter.
The running commentary here is almost as much fun as the story!
One thing to consider is that after Tina's mind sits in that estrogen bath all summer, and is also so immersed in teen life, she may be too socialized as a girl to return to Chris. The possibility of her not being able to return as a male could be even more dependent on this question than the physical possibilities.
I think Tiff is setting us all up for a big surprise of who the "bad guys" are. Perhaps she's been reading too much Miss Marple?
Hugs
Carla Ann
Such speculations
Hi Tiff
You must be having a fun time reading all the comments. All this speculation, and most of it is bound to be way in left field.
But I'm not one to refuse to join the fun. I therefor humbly submit my own SWAG.
Your story has all the hallmarks of a mystery novel. You have your characters speculating about a wide variety of possible perpetrators. You tease us with hints -- some of them very subtle.
So, here's my guess:
The butler did it!
The perpetrators are a shadowy group that you have not even introduced to us. In fact, you barely hinted at their existence.
So... Mister Sommers went to Baghdad, played the Good Samaritan, and made some friends. Those friends sent him some tokens of their appreciation. Alas, he has lost contact with all but one.
Did those friends (or someone posing as his friends) send him anything that he would tend to carry around -- like a tie tack or a wallet? Does that item contain a small recording device, which is regularly downloaded and transmitted via the somewhat larger device hidden (perhaps baked) into the vase?
Enquiring minds want to know.
Also, I continue to be amused by the assertion that Chris's quick adaptation is proof that she won't be able to turn back to a he.
I see it as proof that either Chris/Tina is very versatile, or that the process does a good job of fostering the adaptation. In any case, the change back should be even quicker because Chris/Tina has a whole lot of years' experience as a male.
But, whether she turn back or not, he/she is bound to miss some of the better points of the gender that he/she abandoned -- whichever it is.
Of course, it would be wonderful if he/she somehow attained the ability to switch back and forth at whim.
Assuming Chris CAN change back ...
and that it will be his/her choice to do so or not (BIG assumptions!), I believe the decision will be based on either new romantic relationships that are formed, either by Tina or Laurie or both, or if the old one is broken. At this point, Chris still loves Laurie, and it is that plus the belief that she recipocates that love and will piut it back into practice once the change back is made that is keeping Tina as only a disguise, though a very good and increasingly comfortable one. A large part of the comfort of the disguise comes, I think, from the rock belief - not always consciouisly accepted - that it will end.
If I were Chris/Tina, I think I would ask, when the time came, if I could change back for a couple of months and then decide whether to be Chris or Tina permanently.
BE a lady!
Whether...
Whether chosen or forced; whether male or female; Chris/Tina is going to miss the good points of what he/she used to be. After having experienced both sides, giving either one up permanently is going to be difficult.
The same goes for the boyfriend/girlfriend versus best friends forever relationship.
It is very interesting
that Caitlin's father has middle east contacts while working in a secure government facility that is, to all concerned, top secret. But I am waiting to see just how this part plays out before I can make any more comments. I like it that Tina had a chance to visit with her mother while she was shopping, and turned it into a mother/daughter thing. There is one thing that has me wondering tho. When Tina asked her mother if the skirt she was looking at was too short, and her mother said that is was way too short for her daughter. Why didn't she say son, regardless of Tina's body now? This is just another brick in the wall that will keep Chris from coming back.
Tina is also in the 'in crowd' and very popular with both the boys and girls as well as the adults. So, why would Tina want to go back to being an invisible boy? I know I wouldn't.
This chapter is filled with everyday life, and the charaters in this story are so real and the dialogus too. The images are bright and clear, and make for a wonderful story. I am waiting until the last chapter to make any kind of a full comment. I still think this whole crazy thing is an exercise in feminizing Chris for whatever reason.
"With confidence and forbearance, we will have the strength to move forward."
Love & hugs,
Barbara
"If I have to be this girl in me, Then I have the right to be."
"With confidence and forbearance, we will have the strength to move forward."
Love & hugs,
Barbara
"If I have to be this girl in me, Then I have the right to be."
Invisible?
While Chris wasn't a social butterfly, I don't recall reading anything that indicated that he was invisible. The fact is, he didn't seem at all dissatisfied with his life. He did well in school. He was a boyscout leader (far from invisible.) He was a star in athletics -- perhaps not a football hero, but definitely well liked and respected. Furthermore, he had a girlfriend who loved him and appreciated him for who he was.
Did he ever desire to be a part of the popular crowd? I doubt it. If he had that desire, he probably would have accomplished it.
As it is, Tina is having popularity thrust upon her. She seems to accept it, but I don't think that she treasures it. She treasures her friends, but not necessarily the trappings of being a 'queen bee.'
It would be interesting to see her go to school there in 'Tina mode.' Would the established queen bees see her as a threat and attempt to knock her down a peg or two?
For that matter, how are Tiffany's shallow friends going to treat her in the future? After all, she has pretty much lured Tiffany out of their purview. I can see them saying something like, "You really think you're hot shit, coming over here from Alaska and acting like you're better than the rest of us."
It's been said before...
As Ray says, Chris was far from the 'invisible boy'. He was popular, had friends, was respected by teachers and other adults ... and was in a relationship - with Laurie.
Remember, the core part of Kris/Tina's female brain, remains Chris' MALE brain or at least his 'primitive brain'. All his male memories are also intact, as well as his personality. Kris was for all intensive purposes, just a female version of Chris.
Tina is something else. 'Programed' or 'manufactured', they tried to make her something contrary to the personality of Chris/Kris and it's something that to Tina's credit, she has been thus far able to deny the OTT provocative and slutty behaviour expectations of at least one of her 'handlers' (whoever set her up with Ashley and co.).
To Tina, being part of the 'in crowd' is an undesired liability... nothing less.
If being with the 'in crowd' is a priority for a teenage girl, that's exactly what the planner's of this 'mission' wanted to avoid. They needed someone who would be able to resist the peer and social pressures/priorities of a teenage girl yet be able to 'work' to her advantage, the attention of the males that fall within the scope of her surveillance.
Tiff (Chris' sister, not Tiff Q)is a perfect example why they didn't want a real teenage girl for the job. She's become pre-occupied with snaring a co-worker!
Being Tina is, as far as Chris/Kris/Tina is concerned, is only an act. That's been stated by the character several times, several ways to several of the adults she's working with.
Obviously, the two of you (despite Kris/Tina being changed to a GG) have differing opinions on the need to be female.
It's been said before, Chris is 100% hetrosexual male, never had any TG/TS thoughts. He was forced to a female body, then 'asked' if it was ok. Now, as Kris/Tina, with Chris' male mind tucked into a female brain, she's nothing more than a boy trapped in a girl's body!
PB
Something Feels Strange - 27
I wonder if Tina could be 'outed' by her responding and acting as her Chris self would? The coach saw a connection, could the mole?
May Your Light Forever Shine
May Your Light Forever Shine
"Where’s the fire extinguisher? "
giggles
"... put out this guy’s fire–fast!"
Both of their fires. I wonder, though. Are we going to find out that the boys' presence when they ran to Caitlin's house kept something from happening to her on the way?
Something from Chapter 26: "a breakthrough in laser technology for small weapons use". In real life, I'd be skeptical about this. However, I'll accept it for the story. (It's not something absurd.) I can also see how terrorists might be interested in such a device. As for the spying, they would probably want a hint about the breakthrough, and then they would work out the details themselves.
Then there's the talk of Caitlin's dad, and his working against oppression. This sounds just like the kind of person who might transmit such information to the terrorists. I also noticed his keeping in contact with one man in the Middle East.
Okay, so Tina has a Friday party, a Saturday morning with Laurie, and a "date" with Andy.
-- Daphne Xu (a page of contents)
Laser Pistol
The commies had one for their cosmonauts. It wasn't that impressive.
https://www.guns.com/news/2013/10/10/soviet-laser-pistol-sec...
One problem with laser weapons is that if it is powerful enough to cause damage, it's powerful enough for the scattered radiation to blind someone.
Fusion Device
I was thinking of a break-through in a small laser-powered fusion weapon, rather than a laser pistol. The facility named is a fusion research laboratory. So it might be something that a terrorist could carry in a backpack, and set off to obliterate a city.
Now that I think of it, perhaps the Wizards' magic could power the device. The lasers would probably be removed from the weapon.
-- Daphne Xu (a page of contents)
An orchiectomy
Would cool this guys fire but not much else.