Positively Glowing: 3

 

With the encouragement of his wife and sister, Gerry tries on some foundation garments
to see if they make him look thinner. Unfortunately, they have the opposite effect.
Now, as things get stressful, Gerry's body starts reacting strangely!

---

 
Author's Note: I have noticed comments have dropped to near zero here. Have I lost BigCloset's audience with this story? ~Clara.
 
This version of Positively Glowing: 3 has been updated with many corrections towards spelling and grammar.~Sephrena.
 
Image Credit: Image created through the use of ai at https://perchance.org/beautiful-people .~Sephrena.

---

 
 
Chapter 3
 

"You're taking this the wrong way, Stevie," Taylor was riding in the passenger seat and trying to explain what she meant before her best friend and sister-in-law got too angry. "Now, remember, I love Gerry, too and I am not happy that my mom pushed him so far so fast or that she changed the rules of the game after he'd already made a deal with her - BUT - I was watching him before he left today and I didn't see a boy in a dress."

"Jesus, Tay, you're getting to be as bad as your mother. What are you suggesting? That I encourage my husband to get sex reassignment surgery? That I encourage him to get a vagina? What?"

"See, you're overreacting, now. All I'm saying is... well... some people are meant to be mothers and homemakers and some of those people are men. If Gerry is one of those men, I think that's great, but what if he's one of those men who is meant to be a mommy and a homemaker, but he's also meant to be cute, and plump and pretty? Is that so bad? Mom was right about one thing - Gerry looked a hell of a lot better when we got home from work last night than he did when we left for work yesterday morning. His transformation was too much, too quickly, yes, but you can't deny that he looked better."

Stevie pulled into the parking lot of a convenience store a few thousand feet before the turn off to their road. She pulled into a parking space and put the car in park. Stevie rubbed her face with her hands and groaned.

"Look, Tay, my whole life has been a battle to be accepted as a woman. First my mother, a massive Fleetwood Mac fan, gives me this stupid, boy's name, then, through some fluke of nature, I end up growing taller than any of my brothers and, despite my large breasted mother and sister, I end up strong, athletic and small breasted. I was teased unmercifully. When I was in my teens, I wished that I could go to sleep one night and wake up either as a boy so that I'd fit my body in or that I would shrink and be like all those popular girls who laughed at me when I walked by."

"I know, Stevie," Taylor said. "I went through the same things..."

"No, Tay, you didn't. I've seen your high school year book. You were tall, but you were always beautiful. I didn't start getting comfortable with my looks until halfway through college - and that was mostly because of you. I tried being a lesbian and failed miserably, so I made up my mind to just give up any chance of ever finding a man who could ever love me and I was all set to grow old and die alone."

"Then," she continued, "the weirdest thing happened! I met a guy, a little guy, and he got me. He really got me. He'd gone through the exact same things I'd gone through, only in reverse."

Taylor nodded that she understood.

"Now, I find myself turned on by... what? Feminizing him, I guess. It was a fun little bedroom game for a night or two, then Kate made it all so public, which was ok, I guess, as long as it was an open secret between us. Now... how can we keep this a secret for almost a month? I mean, if people found out that our cute little, knocked up receptionist was actually my husband, what would people think about him? Or about me? I can just hear the whispers now - 'See! I told you she was a dyke.' I just don't know if I can face this." She crooked an arm over the steering wheel and buried her head in it, her bobbed hair covering her face.

Taylor just stared at her friend for a few moments before saying anything. What could she say? Everything that Stevie had said was valid, but what about the truth of the matter? Gerry was a natural homemaker and he seemed to be more natural dressed in a pretty dress than a pair of sweat pants.

"Stevie? Do you love Gerry?"

Stevie's head shot back up and Taylor could see the wet marks left behind by tears. "Of course I love Gerry. You know that."

"So, do you think that he looks cleaner and healthier now than he did before my mom took him shopping and got him a makeover?"

Stevie sighed. "Ok. There's no denying that he was a little depressed and letting himself go. I mean, he had seriously immersed himself in every aspect of cooking, cleaning and caring for Mila, but he only showered every few days, his hair was always in a greasy ponytail and I admit I was getting a little fed up with it, but..."

"Hold that thought for a moment.," Taylor interrupted. "I was at your house this morning when you guys were getting ready. Did you notice anything different about Gerry's morning routine?"

Stevie scowled. "Well, yeah, of course. His whole routine was entirely different. He had to do his makeup and his hair and he needed my help zipping up his dress... lots of things were different."

"Was he letting himself go, or making sure his appearance was perfect?"

"Making sure he looked perfect, but that's because he didn't want to stick out."

"Or - maybe he wanted to blend in and look nice for you so you'd be proud of him."

Stevie contemplated this. "So what are you saying?"

"I'm saying that Gerry knows that you love him and you love him because you guys are soulmates who shared similar heartaches growing up, but he also knows that he'll never be a tall stud, like the guys you drool over in the movies - Like Armie Hammer or Chris Hemsworth."

"Those are just fantasies, though."

"Right. Fantasies that he can't live up to, but the other night he was able to fulfill one of your fantasies by being a pretty, submissive wife and you told him how much you enjoyed that fantasy, didn't you?"

Stevie nodded.

"Honestly, as much as I know he'd deny it, I think that Gerry is trying to not just please my mother, but to become your dream girl by being as pretty as he can be."

Stevie mulled that over.

"And," Taylor continued, "he's really trying very hard to give you an amazing anniversary present. I can't tell you what it is, but you'll love it. That's what this is all about."

Stevie smiled. "Really?"

"Oh, yeah. Trust me, this is all going to be worth it."

Stevie leaned back and relaxed for the first time. "So... what? I should just let this all run it's course and see where it takes us?"

Taylor nodded. "And support whatever Gerry chooses to do. I think that mom may have inadvertently opened up a part of him that we hadn't seen before, but we may be seeing a lot of from now on."

Stevie shook her head as she put the car in reverse. "Geez, why couldn't I have a normal life? Everything has become so complicated and scary."

"I think you mean 'exciting.'"

Stevie pulled into traffic. "You're just weird."
 

 

When he'd arrived home, Gerry had immediately hung up his red dress, placed it carefully on the rod in the closet, then grabbed the satin robe his mother had given him and wrapped it around himself so that he wasn't just wearing the silk and lace slip.

He hustled to the kitchen and took several boneless chicken breasts from the refrigerator and set them on the counter. Before the process of breading them began, he took Mila from her carrier, checked her diaper, found it dry, pulled the highchair near the counter, placed her in the seat and locked her in, then sprinkled a few Cheerios onto the chair's table top and returned to the counter.

"Did you enjoy yourself today, Mila?" he cooed to the child, who smiled and nibbled on the cereal. "You looked so pretty and you behaved so well! You made me very proud. Yes, you did."

He broke and egg and mixed it with a little milk, placed the breasts into a mixing bow and poured the mixture in on top of it. Then grabbed a bag and poured bread crumbs in. While the chicken soaked in the mixture for a moment, he set the oven for three hundred and fifty degrees, pulled out a cookie sheet that he lined with parchment paper, grabbed a small baby bottle and filled it with water from the refrigerator's dispenser, tightened the nipple and put it on Mila's high chair top so she could grab it, then returned to battering the chicken breasts in breadcrumbs and laying them on the cookie sheet.

"What do you think, Mila? Wild rice pilaf, basmati rice, couscous or little red potatoes for supper?"

The baby bounced and gurgled at her favorite person.

"Basmati rice it is, then. An excellent choice!" He grabbed the rice cooker and plugged it in, added the water and rice, then pushed the button to the 'cook' setting just as the oven's beeper told him that it was appropriately preheated. He put the chicken breasts into the bag with the breadcrumbs, shook the bag, then placed the chicken onto the cookie sheet and slid it into the oven, set the timer for forty five minutes, opened a cabinet, removed a jar of Gerber's puréed garden vegetables, grabbed a small, rubber coated spoon, pulled a chair over to the high chair, opened the jar of food, removed a spoonful and smiled at his beautiful niece. There was a lot to accomplish, but Gerry was completely at home in his kitchen.

"Tada!" he said in a playful tone when he slid into the chair and that made her laugh.

As he fed her, he made loving cooing noises and recited little rhymes that she always enjoyed.

When the jar was empty, he pulled a bottle of breast milk from the refrigerator and warmed it just a little in the microwave, shaking it and making sure it was an acceptable temperature before slipping the nipple into Mila's mouth.

He smiled as she began to drink the nourishing fluid.

"You know what?" He spoke in the sing song voice that Mila loved to hear. "I missed being home with you today. I did. I don't think I realized it until today, but you have become my world, Mila. Taking care of you and talking to you... it's everything to me. I never thought about it until today, but I don't think I want to run a software consulting business, anymore. I don't think I want to do anything else, ever, but take care of you. I would love to have more like you, too. Maybe a little girl of my own to be your best friend - your little cousin who's more like a little sister."

The tone and cooing stayed the same, but Gerry's eyes became watery as he continued to speak to his best and only friend.

"I could dress you up and take you out in a twin stroller and buy you sweet little dresses that matched. When you got older, we could have tea parties when you're even older than that, we could all go together to pick out the perfect dress for your First Communion, or your first school dance..."

The tears flowed now.

"And then, when you got old enough to know that I'm not really the woman I look like, you grow to be embarrassed by me... then you wouldn't want me around and then... you'd hate me."

He held the baby's hand and kissed it, first on the back, then on the front and he held her palm against his cheek. "Please don't ever hate me, Mila. I want to be a good uncle for you, but... things have gone a little off the rails and I'm not sure if they'll ever get back on. Do you like me better like this or looking like a man?"

The child sucked on the bottle and stared lovingly. Her deep blue eyes were so shiny and filled with so much love and promise. She filled him with warmth and love and hope.

"Please don't ever hate me, Mila. Please."
 

 

On Thursday afternoon, Kate announced to Laura and Erin that Gerry would be staying on for a couple more weeks until a permanent replacement for Monica could be found. Erin was thrilled because that meant that she had a couple of more weeks spending time with Mila. She constantly complimented Taylor for the beauty of the child and Gerry for the beautiful clothing he provided. Laura was less enthusiastic because this meant she'd be stuck covering the reception area at least two or three more times before a replacement showed up.

"One more day till the weekend," Erin smiled as she arrived back at reception for another dose of Mila. "Have you enjoyed your first week here?"

Gerry shrugged. "I guess. I like everyone and it's nice to get into the stores downtown, but I miss being home with Mila. I can't do everything I'd like to do with her here."

"Like what?"

"Like read, or sing or just be spontaneous with her."

"Aww," Erin smiled. "You're going to make a great mommy."

He smiled. "Thanks."

"So, who's your OBGYN?"

For a moment, the question made no sense to Gerry. "What?"

"Your OBGYN? Who are you going to?"

"Umm..." he searched for a name, then remembered that Taylor had gone to see a doctor named Dr Crenshaw, so that's the name he gave. "I see Dr Crenshaw."

"Crenshaw?" Erin smiled. "Bill or Joseph?"

Just then, Taylor stepped into the reception area to grab a cup of coffee.

"Oh, excuse me, Ms Wentworth?" Gerry called you her, hoping for some help.

"Yes, Gerri?"

"We were just discussing my OBGYN. I go to your doctor. Is Dr Crenshaw's first name Bill or Joseph?"

"Rosalyn," Taylor said without any thought.

Erin looked from Taylor to Gerry. "Rosalyn? You couldn't remember if your female ONGYN was named Joseph or William or Rosalyn?"

"Oh... well..." Gerry sputtered.

"Sorry, Rosalyn is Joseph's daughter," Taylor laughed. "Gerri has seen both Joe and Rosalyn. I only saw Rosalyn."

"Oh," Erin smiled and returned her attention to Mila. "Honest to God, Taylor, I think you have the most beautiful baby who ever lived."

Taylor came close and smiled over Erin's shoulder at her beautiful daughter. "I know. I'm very lucky."

"Is her father as good looking as you?" It was an innocent question and one that wasn't meant to offend, after all, Erin and Taylor were just coworkers. They weren't really friends and Taylor didn't speak about Fred at work.

Taylor gave a sad smile and said, "He is. He's very good looking."

"Excuse me, Miss Morley," Kate was suddenly in reception with them, "may I see you in my office for a few moments?"

"Yes, of course, Mrs Wentworth." Gerry stood with a bit of difficulty and half-walked-half-waddled around the desk.

"Taylor," Kate gave the other two women a judgemental look, "will you please look after reception and Mila for a few minutes. Erin, I believe you owe me some paperwork on the Grossman account. I'd like that before you leave today."

"Of course, Kate." Erin handed the baby to her mother. "I'm sorry. I'll have that to you in less than an hour."

Kate linked her left arm through Gerry's right and led him towards her office. "That is a lovely dress, dear," she whispered, "did Stevie buy that for you?"

Gerry glanced at the soft lavender dress with what looked like lilac blossoms in darker purple tastefully printed on it. Tiny cap sleeves and an unusual, twisted belt emphasized the empire waist. The bodice draped tastefully over his breasts in a manner that reminded him of a Greek goddess' dress. Like most of his office dresses, the hem brushed his stockinged legs just above the knee. The stretchy jersey material breathed well and moved nicely. It was the most comfortable dress he'd worn so far - in fact, it was one of the most articles of clothing he'd ever worn.

"Oh, no." He smiled at the compliment. "I saw it in the window at Kennedy's and I really liked it, so I bought it for myself. According to the saleswoman, it's a style that The Duchess of Cambridge wore when she was pregnant and it's appropriate to be worn after pregnancy, too."

Kate closed the door after they entered her office. She indicated a chair that faced her desk and Gerry took the seat.

"So," Kates' eyes were raised, "you bought yourself a dress that you can wear AFTER you've delivered the baby. How very foresighted of you. When is your due date, again?"

Gerry was embarrassed. "I was just relaying what the saleswoman said..."

Kate waved him off. "It's a lovely dress, Gerry, and I'm glad to see that you've trained that fashion sense that you use so well on Mira to enhance your own appearance. In fact, one of the reasons I asked you in here was to tell you how impressed I am with how well you've integrated yourself into the office this week. I know I'm asking a lot of you, and you're doing very well. Here."

Kate passed a credit card across the table to him.

"What's this?"

"It's my credit card. When you get home tonight, book your vacation and flight and anything else you want for your anniversary trip - massages, boat rides, whatever."

Gerry's eyes opened wide. "Mom... thank you."

"Oh, don't be silly. You've lived up to your part of the deal up to this point. I still expect you to live up to the rest of your agreement, but I can't expect you to wait until a week before your trip to arrange everything. Just return the card when you're through with it. Oh, also attach that card to your reservation so that you can charge anything that comes up while you're there."

"Wow," he whispered. "Mom... I mean, thanks. This is very generous of you."

"A deal's a deal." she stood, which Gerry took to be his cue to stand as well, but he had to maneuver himself up with some care.

"Are you ok?" Kate asked.

As he worked himself upright he sighed, "My back is stiff, probably from sitting all day and using that Baby Bjorn carrier. I'll be ok."

What he didn't tell his mother is that his whole body was feeling aches and pains in new and troubling places. His back pain may well have been from sitting so much or from using the Baby Bjorn or because the babybelt created a very realistic baby belly that put a new strain on his body, but his little bit of a waddle was due to the fact that he and Stevie had been much more sexually adventurous than they had been in the past and most of these adventures involved his bottom and his breasts his nipples in particular. They'd been awake later than usual every night this week with Gerry either on his knees servicing Stevie, or underneath her while she kissed, nibbled or penetrated him. The truth was, his nipples and his bottom both ached a great deal!

"To tell you the truth, it actually helps to make your disguise convincing."

"Thanks... I guess... and thank you for the vacation, mom. That's really means a lot to me."

"Mrs. Wentworth, dear. Always Mrs Wentworth in the office. You're welcome."

Just as he opened the door to leave, Kate said, "Oh, I nearly forgot! Our biggest client, Kirkland-Williams, is sending several of their people in tomorrow to review the investments we've made for their retirement fund. They are also considering moving their entire investment portfolio to our firm. Whenever they show up, we like to put on a bit of a dog and pony show for them. When you go to Ruby's for the pastry order, it'll be three boxes instead of two and the florists will be coming in first thing in the morning with quite a few arrangements to place about the office. I'll trust you to work with them to make everything look lovely before their representatives arrive."

"Oh, of course, Mrs Wentworth." Gerry smiled. "Thank you for trusting me."

"Of course, my dear, however, about the dress you'll be wearing tomorrow..."

"Yes?"

"Well, I know what a limited selection you have in your closet. Hmm, I do wish I knew about this lovely number, it would have been perfect for tomorrow. Do you have anything else this nice?"

Gerry thought for a moment. "No ma'am. I could, maybe, go to Kennedy's again after work."

"No, no, dear, in fact, I'd like to set up a visit from my 'nail girl' for you this afternoon. I'll call her and have her at your house by four thirty. That will give you time to get home, get Mila settled and start dinner for you and the girls."

"What's wrong with my nails?" Gerry looked at the acrylic nails that Veronica had applied on Monday.

"Nothing, dear. It's just that, when presenting the office to very important clients, I want everything and everyone to look perfect. That red polish was lovely with your red dress, but I'd like something more 'classic' looking for tomorrow."

Gerry started at his nails, confused.

"You'll learn, dear, that a truly well turned out woman takes care of every aspect of her appearance. Men should, too, but very few do. Perhaps, at the end of all of this, you'll have learned something beneficial about presenting yourself."

"Yes, ma'am," he nodded.

"Well, then," Kate smiled, "back to work, girl. You still have an hour before your car arrives."
 

 

"You'll like this color," the sixty-something-year-old, elegant Asian woman explained, holding one completed hand up for Gerry to see. "The soft pink goes with everything and it's just bright enough so that people notice it."

"It is very pretty," Gerry agreed, while keeping an eye on Mila in the playpen with another episode of Sesame Street playing on the iPad.

"Oh, you new mommies are always nervous when you're not holding your babies. Listen, I've raised five children, three girls and two boys, and I'll tell you, they're not as fragile as you think. She'll be fine for a few minutes."

Gerry had barely gotten home before Maelee had arrived. She set up her folding table and accoutrements in the kitchen and Gerry was ordered to stop doing what he was doing and sit. Luckily, Mila wasn't wet and didn't appear hungry, but he'd not had time to start dinner, which he was fretting about - well, that and having Mila in the same room as the harsh fumes from the nail polish. He was always very particular about things like that.

"She is a beautiful baby," Maelee said as she went about her work. "She looks just like you."

Gerry always loved to hear that, even though she really looked just like Taylor.

"Actually," Gerry admitted, "she is my niece, not my daughter."

"Oh, good," the woman laughed.

A bit insulted, Gerry asked, "Why is that good?"

"Oh, I just meant, well, with you being pregnant... well, two that close together and a job... that would be a lot to handle."

As Maelee started the other hand, Stevie and Taylor appeared. Each greeted Gerry with a smile and kiss on the cheek.

"Where's my princess?" Taylor cooed as she danced to the playpen and received giggles of joy from Mila.

"And how's my princess doing?" Stevie teased as she leaned on the counter and smiled at Gerry as he was being pampered.

"Good," he smiled.

"This is pretty," Stevie smiled as she fingered the cotton material of the full length, white, ruffled apron he was wearing to cover the dress he'd worn to the office. "Did you buy it for yourself?"

"No," Gerry was a little surprised by the question. "It was in a box from Amazon on the porch when I got home. It was addressed to me. I thought that you bought it for me."

"Mom strikes again!" Taylor laughed as she bounced Mila on her hip.

"I can take it off if it's not appropriate," Gerry said sincerely.

"No," Stevie smiled. "Keep it on. I like it. It's pretty and it looks pretty on you."

Gerry smiled at the compliment. "I didn't have time to start dinner. We'll be running a little late."

Stevie petted his hair, still fascinated by its beauty and softness. "Don't worry, baby. We'll call for something."

"No we won't," Gerry shook his head, indignantly. "I'll make you something quick and easy. How does lemon pasta and shrimp sound? I know it's not haute cuisine, but it'll be healthier than Chinese takeout."

"Argh," Taylor looked at Maelee and shook her head. "She is such a mother hen!"

Maelee laughed. "It's good that you have someone taking care of you."

"Can I help with anything?" Stevie asked.

"Sure," Gerry nodded. "You can grab that big pot and fill it up about halfway with water, then start the burner so it's boiling when I'm done here."

"You got it!" Stevie kissed the crown of Gerry's head.

Taylor sat beside the table and, in a stage whisper, said, "Oh my God! Stevie is going to touch the stove! I think this is one of the signs of the apocalypse! Watch the windows for four horsemen."

"Yeah, you should talk," Stevie teased back from the stove. "When was the last time you cooked?"

"Sunday, remember."

"And Gerry did most of that, too, so don't throw stones, Miss Glass House."
 

 

Dinner was delicious, as usual. Despite his newly lacquered fingers, Gerry managed to make dinner, serve it and clean up after it all while wearing his size small, yellow, Playtex, rubber gloves and his new, ruffled apron.

As Gerry washed the dishes, with Mila in her chair beside him, Stevie and Taylor adjourned to the porch. They loved sitting on the porch in the evening, especially in the autumn when the evenings were cool enough to enjoy the fresh air without sweating profusely.

"What do you think of mom's newest gift?" Taylor asked, referring to the apron.

Stevie looked through the sliding doors to where Gerry was working in the kitchen. "Part of me wants to kill her for making him such a girly little thing, and part of me wants to take that girly little thing to bed and fuck her senseless."

Taylor laughed so hard that she could hardly contain cranberry juice she'd been drinking in her mouth. "Holy cow, Stevie! I've never heard you use that word once in all the time I've known you."

"I'm telling you, Tay, this feminine stuff is playing with my brain. It's not just the dresses - it's everything. When he put on his flats to make dinner - the way that he wiggles his ankle to slide his foot into the flats - it was such a ladylike manouver that I wanted to sweep him up and take him to bed - As if I was Rhett Butler and he was Scarlet O'Hara. I think I'm losing it, I really do."

"Losing it?" Taylor laughed. "It sounds like you're 'getting it,' and in a very good way, too. I'm telling you, Steve-oh, relax, accept that you like him this way and enjoy it. Who knows? It may last a few weeks, or it may last forever, but if it turns you on, enjoy it."

"Hello!" Kate called as she walked in through the front door, a garment bag hanging from her right hand. "I'm just stopping by with a new dress for my youngest daughter to wear to the office tomorrow."

She hung the garment bag she carrier on the kitchen door frame and crossed to the sink, first kissing Mila, then Gerry. "Oh, do you like the apron? I thought it was just darling when I saw it online."

"Well, yes, I do..."

"And it reminded me so much of the maids and nannies in old movies, I just thought it would be such a charming addition to your look, and I was right, don't you think?"

"It is very pretty mom..."

"And you'll need to give it a little extra attention to keep it that way. When you wash it, you'll have to take some time to iron it and remember to use spray starch to keep the ruffles looking fresh. It's just a few extra minutes, but it will make all the difference in the world. A girl has to look her best, especially at home. The breadwinner should always come home to a beautiful, well dressed spouse. Remember that, Gerry."

What was the point in arguing. "Yes, ma'am."

"That's my girl." She kissed his cheek, again.

"Now, everyone come see the dress I found for Gerry to wear to work tomorrow. It's adorable. It's soft and feminine and professional. It's all girl, but with just a touch of boyishness."

"A boyish maternity dress," Stevie snickered as she stood. "I can't wait to see that!"

"Maybe it's culottes," Taylor kidded.

"It is certainly NOT culottes," Kate said, only hearing the end of the conversation and horrified by the very idea.

Kate took the garment bag from its perch on the door frame and turned it towards her as she drew the zipper down. She pulled the dress free of the bag, but left it hanging so that it shielded the dress from her 'audience.' Then she turned it to face them with a 'tada.'

It was truly a lovely dress. A stretchy, plain, black, scooped neck bodice with barely-there cap sleeves, a high, empire waist that was sure to draw attention to Gerry's delicate condition, and a wide-flared, pink skirt and a three inch, baby blue band of satin circumnavigating the skirt six inches from the bottom.

"Ohh," Taylor exclaimed, sincerely impressed. "That's beautiful. I love that fit-and-flare style. Gerry, you'll find this really comfortable."

Gerry thought the dress was lovely, but even though it was
unquestionably a maternity dress, it did seem a bit... young.

Stevie lifted the skirt to reveal the petticoat she suspected was hidden beneath. "A petticoat?"

"They're very stylish, Stevie," Kate waved a hand. "Lots of girls are wearing them."

"Any women?" She asked in retort. "I thought you said that there was something 'boyish' about this dress. I'm looking at a pink skirt with a petticoat. What exactly is 'boyish' about this dress?"

"Well," Kate seemed annoyed that Stevie couldn't see it for herself, "the top is, essentially, a stretchy tee shirt and then there's that blue strip around the skirt near the bottom. Boys like tee shirts and the color blue, don't they?"

"Sure," Stevie shook her head, "that's why there are so many sports teams with BABY blue as their team color."

Kate ignored the sarcasm. "Anyway, Gerry, I won't make you try it on, now, I'm sure it'll fit just beautifully, but I wanted to give you this to wear with it."

She handed him a gift wrapped box, approximately eight inches long, two inches wide and a little more than an inch deep.

"What's this," Gerry asked tentatively, suspecting a trap of some kind.

"Just something that every girl should have. I gave one to your sister on her eighteenth birthday and one to your wife for her wedding day."

The women's eyes opened wide, assuming they knew what was in the box. They looked at the box in shocked expectation as Gerry opened it to reveal a beautiful, three strand, pearl necklace, very similar to ones owned by both Taylor and Stevie.

Gerry looked up at all the women standing over him. "Pearls? They're beautiful, mom, but weren't they expensive?"

"Of course they were expensive, Gerry, but quality costs money. And besides, I think you'll find that these go with nearly anything shy of a tee shirt. You'll get plenty of use out of them. And I know I shouldn't have, but it's just so fun to shop for a girl who has nothing... I got you earrings to match." She handed him a small, unwrapped box with the name of the most prestigious dealer in the area embossed in gold on its green top.

Gerry opened it to see two, large, perfectly round and opulencent pearls mounted on gold studs.

As thoughtful as this gifts were, they seemed to have a message attached that read, 'Gerry, this is all permenant now. The decisions have all been taken away from you. You are now and will always be a pretty, pregnant woman.' The message petrified him, both because he wasn't ready to hear it and because he kind of felt as if taking the decision away from him would be the easiest way to make it all permenant and a very big, and growing part of him really wanted it to be permanent. But he couldn't face that, let alone discuss it right now, so he did the only thing he could think to do.

He cried.

He didn't bawl or weep, he just cried what could have been construed as tears of fear or tears of joy, and he laid his head on Mila's as he hugged her on his hip.

Kate patted his face. "That's ok, baby. I understand. Girls love pretty things." Then she turned to everyone else and said, "Remember to be a little early, tomorrow, girls. It's going to be a big day! Love you all! Good night."

She headed for the door, but stopped and turned, saying, "Tell you what... let's all wear our pearls tomorrow. It'll look lovely and won't it be nice to see all of the Wentworth girls all decked out in their pearls together? Goodnight, and she was out the door and gone.

"Are you ok?" Stevie asked her husband.

He nodded. "Just a little... overwhelmed, I guess."

Stevie moved behind him and wrapped her arms around him and the baby. She offered comfort without saying a word. She wasn't sure what to say, to be honest, but she couldn't deny that she was, at some level, very pleased with the dress and pearls.

"Do you like any of this, Gerry?" Taylor asked.

He sniffles and shrugged. "I mean, the dress is lovely, I guess, and the pearls... they must have cost a fortune. It's just all... a lot, I guess. Do you guys..." he took a deep breath, "... do you even consider me a man any more?"

"Of course we do, Gerry," Taylor reassured him. "How could you even ask us something like that?"

"You'll always be my man, baby," Stevie kissed the back of his head. "You know that."

Gerry nodded and looked at the pearls again. He didn't want them, but he couldn't wait to feel them around his neck. What was wrong with him?

"There are aspects to living like a woman that you enjoy, though, aren't there?" Taylor asked.

He shrugged. "Sure, I guess."

"Like what?"

"I don't know... I'm less isolated. Like I've told you, I like talking to other women about Mila and cooking and stuff. I get to spend more time with you two... and..."

"And what?"

"I like..." the last part was muffled.

"What?" Taylor had not heard his words.

"I like... looking... nice. I'm not a handsome guy, but... I'm... kinda... I don't know..."

"You're adorable as a girl," Stevie finished it for him.

He shrugged again.

"Well, you are," Taylor laughed, in a kind way. "And you know it. You were a geeky little brother, but you're a drop dead gorgeous little sister. No matter what, Gerry, I'll always love you. And so will Mila."

"And so will I," Stevie hugged him harder. "You're stuck with me for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health and in trousers or in petticoats."

He laughed at that.

"Look," Taylor smiled and patted his cheek, "you know we didn't start this to turn your life upside down. It was just meant to be some fun at Halloween, but you're pretty good at being a woman - better than me in a lot of ways, actually. It doesn't have to be forever. You've already almost finished one week. Just a few more to go, ok? Enjoy the soft clothes and perfume while you can. Then, come November first, you can make up your mind about how you want to live your life. Ok?"

"Ok," he nodded.

Stevie squeezed him once more, then let go. "Maybe we could do something fun this weekend to get your mind off of all of this, ok?"

"That'd be nice."

Mila laid her head on his breast and snuggled, tiredly.

"I should get her to bed," Taylor said as she reached for the child. "It's been a long day for her."

Gerry kissed the baby as she left his arms. "Goodnight, baby," he whispered.

"You guys finish up in here. I'll let myself out. Love you both." Taylor went out the front door.
 

 

The water felt glorious on Gerry's skin as he soaped himself up in the shower. The shower was the only time that he was free of the tight foundation garments he wore day and night. In fact, he was getting quite used to wearing a bra, but the baby-belt could be quite cumbersome as the day wore on. Having a belly residing so prominently in front of him all the time was also tiring. Everything felt different, now, though. The softness of his skin from the creams he applied morning and night, the softness of his hair from the rinses and conditioners he used when he showered. Even the way the water traveled over his hairless skin.

Because they both needed to shower for Friday, Gerri was taking his tonight in order to give Stevie enough time to take hers in the morning. He'd been told to wash and condition his hair as he'd been taught, then just dry his hair with a towel. Stevie's was planning to braid it so that he'd have nice waves in his hair for the next day.

He shut off the water and stepped out, grabbing a towel from the rack, he bent over and began toweling his hair dry. It was a longer process than it had been before when he'd just give it a quick brushing and then tie it into a low ponytail. Everything had to be done 'just so,' now.

Finally, his hair was dry enough to wrap turban style, which he did, then he stood, snapping his head back and standing straight up, facing the mirror over the sink.

And then he saw it.

"Shit," he whispered, then looked more closely.

It couldn't really be like that, could it?

"Shit," he whispered.

He ran his fingers over his body, noticing the changes for the first time.

"Shit," he whispered.

He grabbed the sheer robe his mother had given him and quickly wrapped himself in it's protective softness. He tied the the belt that sat right at the empire waist of the robe, but that just accentuated every thing.

"Shit," he whispered.

He sat in the wooden chair in the corner of the bathroom and tried to think clearly, but he couldn't.

"Shit," he whispered.

He gazed into nowhere and tried to think of what he should do. He must have sat there quite a while, because when Stevie knocked and called in, "Is everything alright in there?" it roused him back to reality.

"Umm... yes..." he responded, but he knew that was a lie.

"Then come on out. I'm waiting to braid your hair, then defile your body." He heard her laugh.

"Shit," he whispered, then stood and looked at himself in the mirror once again. Nothing had changed since he'd last looked.

He took a deep breath, then opened the door and entered the bedroom, where Stevie was sitting by her vanity, brushing her own hair.

He moved slowly towards her. Slowly enough to catch her attention.

"What's wrong?" She asked. "You look like you've seen a ghost."

He took another breath. "I think I might be in trouble, Stevie."

"Trouble?" Stevie stopped brushing. "What kind of trouble? Do you need money? I'll give you whatever you need?"

He shook his head.

"Then what kind of trouble?" She asked.

He opened his robe and let it drop from his shoulders to his elbows, revealing his naked body.

"Oh, shit," Stevie whispered. "How? I mean... how?"

"It must be from wearing the baby belt and bra all the time."

She stood and looked at her husband. The belly that had been pushed forward by the baby belt now, without the belt on, looked much more like a pregnant belly than before, but his breasts were different. They didn't hint at a woman's breasts - the were women's breasts. Well defined, and feminine women's breasts. They sagged a bit, but that just added to the pre-natal look.

"Jesus, Gerry, even your nipples look bigger."

"That's probably your fault, though," he said as he looked at himself In the vanity mirror.

"My fault? How is it my fault?"

He blushed a bit as he said, "You've been nibbling and suckling on them on week. They've gotten very sensitive."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because I liked it," he blushed some more.

Now, Stevie blushed as well. "Yeah, well... maybe we should stop, then. We'll just have to tell your mom."

Gerry thought about that and about having to pay back the vacation he'd just charged on her credit card. There was no way he could do that. "No... look, if this all happened because I wore shapewear for four or five days, then when I stop, it should all go back to normal even faster, right? So... let's just keep doing what we're doing. Ok?"

"Are you sure?" Stevie asked, very uncertain, but very aroused as well.

"Yeah. I'm sure. Let me put on my bra and baby-belt and you can show me how to braid my hair."

"Hold on a minute." Stevie went to his dresser and pulled out a black nightie with a thin straps and lace around the breast area. "I thought that your mother was crazy for buying this, since you'd always be wearing a bra underneath, but, just for a little while, wear this. You can put on your bra on later."

She pulled his hair free of the towel-turban, slipped the sheer material over him and settled the nightie in place, the gentle elastic quality of the bodice settling seductively around his breasts, causing them both to shiver, just a little bit.

They kept their eyes looked on each other, each wanting to move to the bed, neither wanting to make the first move. Finally, Gerry moved to sit in the vanity chair, but Stevie, in a sudden and desperately aggressive move, threw her arms under him and swept him up into her arms, nearly throwing him onto the bed.

"My hair..." Gerry began to protest, "... its still wet."

"Fuck your hair, ill do it later," Stevie pulled down her pajama bottoms and stepped out of them. "Better yet," she growled, "I'll fuck you, instead,"

She leapt onto the bed and was immediately tonguing, suckling and nibbling his breasts as her hand pulled the hem of the nightie high enough so she could grad his penis, an organ that had been neglected a lot recently. She was so aggressive and passionate that Gerry didn't know where to put his hands, but long before he reached a male orgasm, he'd experienced many other, less masculine ones due to the manipulation of his nipples and several fingers inserted into his rear end. It was well past eleven before he was back in his bra and baby-belt, a clean, less revealing nightie and having his hair braided.
 

 

Knowing how important this day was for Kate, Taylor and Stevie arrived at the office, with Gerry and Mila in tow, at eight o'clock Friday morning, just moments before the florists arrived with more flowers than Gerry had ever seen outside of a flower show.

Gerry worked with the delivery men to create a stunning array of color and scents throughout the outer office, Kate's interior office and the conference room, as well.

It was only eight forty when everything had been set in just the right place.

"Taylor," Kate said, "could you watch the baby for a few moments? Gerri, before you go to Ruby's I'd like a few words in my office, please."

"Yes, Mrs Wentworth," he replied and he followed his mother to her desk.

"You did a lovely job decorating this morning, Geri. Thank you, very much for that."

A bit surprised to receive such an unqualified compliment, Gerri smiled. "Thank you, Mrs Wentworth."

"You've done very well all week, in fact and I am very proud of you..."

Gerry was about to thank her again, but before he could, Kate continued.

"...but today is a very, very, very important day for us and I need you to be even more on the ball than you have been this week."

Gerry nodded. "What would you like me to do?"

"Well, first of all, when speaking to these men, I need you to be more demure than usual. Don't look them directly in the eye. Look up through your lashes at them. They are used to being served by women, they do not view women who work as receptionists as equals. In fact, mom, I am sure that they view all women as inferior - that is, of course, unless you've made them millions in investments as I have, or if you're and Amazon beauty like your wife and sister. I expect you to be what they will perceive you to be - pretty, little, demure Barbie doll who happens to be pregnant. Do you understand me?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Do you like your new dress?" The question seemed like a drastic departure from the conversation.

Gerry looked down and ran his hand over the pink material of the skirt which was a bit inflated by the petticoat beneath. "It's lovely, thank you."

"And the pearls?"

In truth, Gerry adored the pearls. They had an unusual weight to them that he just loved. They moved so perfectly and felt amazing when he touched them. The earrings were the same - just perfect. When he looked in the mirror while wearing them, they seemed to make his face glow.

When he didn't respond, Kate asked again. "Do you like your new pearls, Gerri?"

"Yes, Mrs Wentworth, I love my new pearls. Thank you."

"Well, you're certainly very welcome, but do you know why I chose this particular look for you to wear today?"

"No, Mrs Wentworth, I'm afraid that I don't."

"It's because, like a Barbie doll, it is classic. The black top is simple and emphasizes your breasts. Men love that. The pink skirt just screams of female subservience. The blue strip follows the line of the hem as it raises a bit in the front because of your pregnant belly. Soft, beautiful, little and pregnant. Everything about you reflects a time from before even I was born when women were meant to be seen and not heard, at the beck and call of men and objects of desire. That's what you need to be today, Gerri. Do you understand?"

He felt so diminished by his mother's words. So reduced to a mere object or a servant. Just a useful ornament, but when he looked at his dress, he realized that that was all that he was. The dress was girlish and feminine in the extreme. He looked like a pretty little pregnant girl compared to the professional women surrounding him in the office. He needed to accept what he had become.

"Yes, Mrs Wentworth, I understand."

"Very good. One more thing. Do you know how to curtsy?"

"Curtsy?"

"Yes, Gerri. Curtsy. Like a maid in a manor house. Curtsy. Do you know how?"

He pondered the question for a moment. "No, ma'am, I'm afraid I don't."

"Then stand."

Gerri pushed himself up using the arms of the chair to rise, belly first, and stood before his mother in the petticoated dress she'd chosen for him. He kept his gaze down due to shame, but Kate took it as a display of demureness.

"Place the toe of your right foot, just behind the heel of your left."

He did as he was told.

"Now, bend your knees ever so slightly and nod as you do so."

He did as he was told.

"And back up."

He did as he was told.

Kate had him try it all in one fluid motion a half dozen more times before dismissing him to take charge of Mila once again and retrieve the pastries from Ruby's.
 

 

At ten fifteen on the nose, the phone in reception rang. Gerry picked it up, "Good morning. This is Wentworth Investments, Gerri speaking. How may I help you?"

He listened for a moment, then said, "Thank you," and hung up, hurrying to his mother's office with Mila on his hip. He knocked and was given permission to enter.

"Excuse me, Mrs Wentworth, but I just received a call from Angelo at the parking garage valet desk. The men from Kirkland-Williams just dropped off their car. They should be here any second."

"Excellent, Gerri. Please return to reception and prepare to greet our clients."

"Yes, ma'am." He turned to leave.

"Gerri." She stopped him and he turned to face her. "When you have finished your chore, what do you do?"

"I do apologize, Mrs Wentworth," he said as he curtsied and exited. He returned to the reception desk and placed Mila in the playpen, hoping she would remain quiet until he had shown the men into the conference room where his mother had called his sister and wife to prepare for the men.

The five men arrived wearing perfectly fitted suits, each of which must have cost a minimum of thirty five hundred dollars. Gerry stood and came around the desk, eyes diverted slightly so he gazed up through his lashed. "Good morning, gentlemen. Welcome to Wentworth Investments. My name is Gerri. May I help you?"

Four of the men were at least in their fifties, if not older and one was much younger. All were fit and trim, well maintained and handsome.

"You're new," the leader acknowledged as he ran his eyes up and down Gerry's body. "There was a redhead here last quarter."

"Yes, that was Monica, sir. I'm afraid she left us to get married."

The man nodded and looked around. "Please tell Kate that Ben Kirkland and his partners are here to see her."

"Yes, sir, Mr Kirkland. Mrs Wentworth and her partners are waiting for you in the conference room. Please, follow me."

As Gerry led the way to the conference room, he could feel Mr Kirkland's eyes on him the whole way. When he reached the door, he knocked gently before opening and saying, "Mr Kirkland and associates to see you, Mrs Wentworth, Ms Wentworth, Ms Wentworth."

"Please show them in, Gerri," Kate said loud enough to be heard.

"Please go right in, gentlemen," he smiled, still maintaining a demure demeanor, eyes down.

The men passed by, but one stopped - the youngest. He was taller than the rest and he was the only one whose hair had not gone grey.

He stopped as he reached Gerry and looked at him closely. "Do I know you?"

Gerry glanced up, just for a second, then looked back down, terrified. It was Bob Williams. Gerry had attended high school with him. They hadn't exactly been friends, but they'd had a lot of mutual acquaintances and ran into each other quite a bit back then.

"No, I don't think so, sir." He said as convincingly as possible.

"Really? We never dated or anything before?"

"No sir," Gerry blushed and shook his head.

"Really? You seem so familiar to me..."

"Bob," one of the older men said. "Stop flirting and let's get down to business."

"Yeah, sorry, dad," Bob Williams said. Then, looking back at Gerry, he said, "I'll think of it, honey." He winked at him and smiled.

"Please be seated, gentlemen," Kate said, sounding very important. "Gerri, please fetch these gentlemen some coffee and pastries."

"Yes, Mrs Wentworth," he curtsied and left the room, a move that did not go unnoticed by his wife.

Moments later, as the men were opening up portfolios with financial reports held within them, Gerry returned with a large tray of pastries, several thermos-pitchers of coffee and milk, cream and sugar.

"Oh, Geez, let me help you with that," Bob said, leaping to his feet. "A delicate little thing like you shouldn't be carrying something this heavy. Especially in your condition."

"I'm fine, thank you," Gerry insisted, but Bob took the tray and carried it the last few feet for him.

Gerry grabbed several coffee mugs and circled the table, putting a mug by each man and woman. When he returned to the side table to grab the thermos-pitchers, Bob was waiting.

As Kate began her meeting, Bob spoke quietly, "I'm sure I know you. I just can't put my finger on where I know you from."

"Excuse me for just a moment, Kate," Kirkland said. "Bob, if you'd rather chat up this young woman, that's fine, but the rest of us have a business to run."

"I'm sorry, Mr Kirkland," Bob smiled, unabashed.

"Sit down, Bob," Bob's father said, sounding a bit cross. "You're here to learn, not flirt. Besides, if you'd take a second to look at the young lady, you may notice that she's not only wearing another man's ring, she's carrying another man's baby. Now, sit down, shut up and take note of what we're doing."

Throughout Mr Williams' declaration, Gerry had been placing the thermos pitchers as well as containers of milk, cream and sweetener dispensers on the table.

"I am sorry if Gerri is a distraction," Kate said. "She is a lovely little thing, but I'm afraid that young Mr Williams is having a hard time concentrating with her in the room. Gerri, that will be all for now."

"Yes, Mrs Wentworth," Gerry finished laying out the pastry plates and headed to the door where he paused, curtsied and exited, pulling the door closed behind him. Once again, Stevie took note of the gesture of subservience.

Gerry returned to reception where he found Erin holding Mila and cooing quietly to her. "She was getting a little fussy,"

"Oh, thank you," Gerry smiled and took Mila back. "Were you lonely without me, Mila? Huh?"

"He's gorgeous," Erin said.

"Who?" Gerry asked, but he knew the answer.

"The young guy. He's into you, too."

Gerry blushed, embarrassed. "He seems nice, but I'm married."

"Are you?" Erin seemed surprised.

"Yes, of course. Why?"

Erin shrugged and looked apologetic. "I don't know... I just thought that you were single. I guess because you were Taylor's nanny, I just assumed that you were living with her and, well, since she's a single mom..."

"Being a single mom isn't a disease that you catch, Ms O'Hara. I'm not Ms Wentworth's nanny, I just take care of Mila for her at my house. Mila went home at night with Ms Wentworth."

Erin looked confused and embarrassed. "I'm sorry, Gerri. Really, I am. Tell me about yourself. Where did you grow up? Tell me about your husband."

Gerry began to sputter, trying to think of something to say. Luckily, at that moment, the buzzer on Gerry's phone sounded. He leaned over the desk, Mila on his left hip, grabbed the phone receiver, held it to his ear with his right shoulder and said, "Yes, Mrs Wentworth."

He listened for a moment, then said, "Yes, Mrs Wentworth. Right away." He turned back to Erin and said, "Mrs Wentworth says that she wants you to bring her a prospectus on investments in Eastern European Technology Companies and she wants it right away."

Erin nodded. "Oh, ok." She headed to her desk, but stopped for a moment. "I'm sorry if I offended you Gerri. I'm just trying to get to know you."

"I'm not offended, Ms O'Hara," Gerry smiled, relieved that the conversation had been interrupted.

Erin nodded, then hurried back to her desk.

The next four, hectic hours involved rushing to and from the office with beverages, papers, folders, sandwiches, desserts, even toothpicks were requested at one point, forcing Gerry to grab Mila and hurry across the street to the drug store to purchase some.

It was nearly three o'clock when the men filed out of the conference room with Kate walking arm in arm with Mr Kirkland.

"... and we will be sure to include that five year projection in the paperwork we'll be sending you next week."

"Excellent," Kirkland smiled, his hand patted Kate's arm as it entwined his. "Send it by messenger, though, Kate. I don't want this stuff sent as an email - even an encrypted one. It's too easy to hack."

"Of course," she smiled. "You know that your security is our priority, Ben. I'll let you know when it's ready and one of us will drive it over to you."

"Excellent," Ben said as he passed Gerry's desk without any indication that he, or Kate, was aware of the pretty, pregnant girl standing behind the desk holding the baby.

Behind them came another pair of men, who glanced at Gerry and smiled as they passed.

Next came Bob's father with Taylor desire him. He glanced at Gerry with a sense of superiority. Then he glanced back him at the man behind him, who was walking and talking with Stevie. Bob's father raised his eyebrows and flashed a look at Gerry.

The man walking with Stevie, glanced at Gerry and shook his head. Then he said to Stevie, "Looks like you'll need to open a day care center, or maybe an obstetrics ward, pretty soon."

Stevie smirked at the remark, which really hurt Gerry. He knew that the company was important and that it was just a little misogynistic remark, but the fact the Stevie just shrugged it off, bothered him a little bit.

As Gerry watched Stevie and the man pass, his vision was suddenly blocked by the chest of his high school classmate. Gerry looked up into Bob's smiling face as Bob blurted out. "Sarah Lawrence College, right!"

"What?" Gerry asked.

"You go to Sarah Lawrence with my sister Susan, right? Carrie Williams. You went to college with you, right? What happened? Did you drop out or transfer here? Carrie's a junior, now, so what are you, a senior someplace local? Oh, geez, of course, you had to drop out because of the baby, right?" Bob seemed so delighted to have figured out who Gerry was, that he just rambled on.

"No," Gerry said. "I didn't go to Sarah Lawrence and, non, I didn't drop out, I went to... well... never mind. I'm pretty sure we never met, Mr Williams."

"Call me Bob."

"No, I don't think that's a good idea, Mr Williams. I'm married and..."

"I'm not trying to date you, honey," Bob interrupted. "I just want to figure out how I know you."

"Well, I don't think I ever met you before, Mr Williams. It was a pleasure meeting you today, but prior to that, I'm afraid that I never had the pleasure of making your acquaintance."

"No, no, no," he insisted. "I never forget a beautiful face..." he glanced at the name plate on the desk, "...Gerri Morely. I will figure it out, I promise."

"Bob!" His father called from the door. "Are you coming?"

He glanced at his father, then turned back to Gerry. "Gotta run, beautiful." He bowed deeply, as if he were a courier. When he stood he reached across the desk and said, "May I kiss your hand, your highness?"

"I don't think that would be a good idea," Gerry said. "I just changed Mila's diaper."

"Bob! Let's go! NOW!" His father called, unamused by his son's flirting.

"Ciao Bellissima," he blew Gerry a kiss and hustled to the door.

"Thank you, again," Kate said as she closed the door behind the men. Then, unexpectedly, at least to Gerry, she locked the door and pulled down the shades on the doors.

The moment that the men left, Gerry felt a stress unwinding in his chest. It was an incredible feeling of relief. Everything had gone well, his mother would be happy and had survived a brush with his past. The stress seemed to release in his shoulders and just fall through his breasts.

Kate turned to the four women and Gerry and said, in an excited voice, "Congratulations, ladies! We are now the sole investment councilor's for Kickland - Williams' retirement account! You will all be receiving very big bonuses after this deal is finalized!"

The women all let out 'woo-hoo' sounds as they burst into clapping and high fives.

"Everyone back into the conference room for a little champagne - with, of course, sparkling apple cider for our mommy and mommy to be."

They all filed into the conference room. Gerry followed Kate's instructions and pulled six, plastic champagne flutes from a cabinet in the corner, while Taylor and Stevie set about opening the champagne and sparkling apple juice. The bottle's popped open and Stevie poured four flutes of Moët & Chandon while Taylor poured two flutes of Marinelli's Sparking Apple Juice.

The plastic glasses were passed around and, just as Kate held up her glass, Mila began to fuss and wanted to be put down. Gerry put down his glass and dealt with the baby as Kate said, "A toast! To the best team at the best investment firm in southern Florida. To us!"

"To us!" The rest called put together as they sipped their drinks. Gerry had also called out the 'to us' toast, but he was busy making sure that Mila didn't get into any trouble.

He followed her for a few minutes until she found her way to Auntie Stevie who picked her up and cooed, "And you were such a big help being such a good girl today! What a good girl."

Since Mila was in good hands, Gerry returned to his glass and picked it up.

"Oh, good heavens, Gerri," Taylor teased, "what did you do, spill your drink on yourself?" She laughed.

"No," Gerry looked at his glass. "I haven't even taken a sip, yet. Why?"

"Well," Taylor laughed, "because your dress is wet."

Gerry bent and looked at the pink skirt of the dress. "Where? I don't see anything wet?"

"No," Taylor was grinning at her little brother's obtuseness. "Right here." She touched the very tip of his breast, then stopped and felt for a moment. Then, in a more serious voice, she said, "Come with me." She took his hand hand led him quickly from the conference room to Kate's office.

Several minutes later, Kate was patting her granddaughter's head as the child's head rested on Stevie's shoulder.

"Is my princess sleepy? Huh? Did she have a big day?"

"She must have if she's falling asleep on me," Stevie laughed.

Kate looked around the room. "Where are Taylor and Gerry?"

Stevie looked around as well, but only Laura and Erin were there and they were partaking of some of the food that had been left untouched during the meeting.

Just then, Taylor appeared in the doorway and said, "Excuse me, Stevie. Could you come here for a moment."

"Sure," Stevie said. She put her plastic champagne flute on the conference table.

"I'll take my girl," Kate said, taking the sleepy child from Stevie and enjoying the feeling of the tiny body snuggling up against her while Stevie made her way around the conference table to the doorway.

Kate was making small talk with Erin and Laura when Taylor appeared, again.

"Mom, I think I need to take Gerri home. I don't think she's feeling well."

"Oh, the poor thing," Kate said. "Let me take a look at her before she leaves. Erin, would you mind holding my little angel?"

"Are you kidding?" Erin beamed and took the baby, very happy to hold her.

Moments later, Taylor and Kate reentered the conference room, obviously in a rush. "I'm sorry, ladies," Kate said. "I hate to leave you with a mess, but could I impose upon you to pick up all of this and lock up for me?"

"Of course," Laura said. "Is everything ok?"

"Oh, I'm sure it is," Kate smiled as Taylor grabbed Mila and headed out the door. "It's just that Gerri isn't feeling at all well and, well, in her condition I just think that it's probably wise to get her to a doctor to be sure everything is ok."

"Oh, my God," Erin stood. "Oh, Kate, please tell her we hope she's ok."

"Yes," Laura stood, too. "Oh, I hope nothing's wrong with the baby." She was genuinely concerned for the welfare of the receptionist and her child.

"I'm sure she'll be fine," Kate said, obviously nervous, "but we must be going."

Kate moved as quickly and calmly as protocol would allow. Taylor was waiting by the door with Mila in her carrier. "Stevie's pulling around. I'll sit in the back with Gerry and Mila. Should we go to the hospital?"

"No. I'll call my doctor. I'm sure she'll see him"

Stevie pulled up and they got in as quickly as Taylor could secure Mila in the car seat.

Once in the car, Kate turned to looked at Gerry who's face was wet with tears. "Now, don't worry, Gerry. I'm sure that this is nothing serious."

Both Gerry and Stevie were too scared to say anything.

Kate pulled out her phone, pressed a contact and put it on speaker.

"Palm Tree Medical Arts Center. How can I help you?" The voice asked from the phone.

"Good afternoon," Kate said. "This is Kate Wentworth. I need to speak to Annette Falcone, immediately."

"I'm sorry, but Dr Falcone is not in today. May I take a message."

"No. I have her cell number."

"Oh, but Dr Falcone..." Kate disconnected the call and hit another contact button.

After six rings, the call connected. "Kate?" The surprised voice asked. "Is everything ok?"

"Actually, Annette," Kate said, "it's not. I do apologize for calling your cell for a medical matter, but this is a bit of an emergency and it's rather... embarrassing, I guess is an appropriate term."

"Oh?" the doctor was surprised. She knew Kate well and had just seen her at the clinic within the last ten days. "What are your symptoms?"

"Well, you see, Annette, it's not me. It's my son, Gerry."

"Alright, so... what are Gerry's symptoms?"

"Well..." Kate searched for a delicate way to say what needed to be said. "... you see... Gerry has recently gained a good deal of weight and his breasts have begun to sag..."

"I see," The doctor sighed. "Well, male breast development is not all that uncommon and is typically a temporary condition. Just encourage Gerry to start exercising and..."

"No, Annette, that's not the current problem."

"Look, Kate, I don't mean to be rude, but I'm just about to play tennis. Just tell me what the issue is, please."

"Well... you see... a few minutes ago, Gerry began... umm..." For a women to whom appearances were very important, this was a very embarrassing situation in which to find herself. Finally, she took a deep breath and just said it. "Gerry began lactating."

There was quiet for a moment.

"Did you say lactating?"

"Yes, Annette, I did."

"Your SON is lactating?"

"Yes."

Again there was silence.

"I'll meet you at the clinic in forty minutes."
 
 
To Be Continued...