Danny always remembered when his sisters went to ballet class. They were so excited, they said, getting to dance all the steps and being able to wear such pretty costumes. But it was also hard work, and they practiced every day, hoping to star in the recitals. And Danny loved to watch them, fascinated by the moves and also loving the ballet costumes, which were so pretty. Plus, the tights were gorgeous.

His first memories of the ballet classes were when he was about eight years old, and his sisters were 13 and 15. Legs crossed, he sat and absorbed all of their practices, even going with to watch them take classes. He listened attentively as the teacher, Miss Tiller, explained all the moves.

“Girls,” she said, “There are five basic positions of both the feet and arms. Learning these steps is essential to the technique of classical ballet because practically every step begins and ends in one of the five basic positions. The basic positions of the feet are first position, second position, third position, fourth position and fifth position. There are also other basic ballet positions of the arms that can be combined with other beginner and advanced steps. You will learn these and more.”

Danny listened intently, focused more than many of the girls in the all-girls class. There were no boys in the class because, so he heard, only sissy and fairy boys do ballet. At least that’s what the guys said. He didn’t care.

One day, Miss Tiller observed Danny’s focus and came up to him. “Do you want to join the girls? You really seem to love watching.” “Uh, yes,” Danny stammered. “Well let’s see what we can do about that. The problem is that we only have girls in the class and having a boy just won’t work.”

After class, Miss Tiller called Danny’s mom aside and told her about the conversation with the young boy. Danny’s mom replied that Danny was always a bit small and effeminate, so why not give him a chance, if he’ll wear the girls costume and attend the class as a girl. The plan was hatched.

A couple of days later, Danny’s mom called him aside and said, “Honey, I have a surprise for you, handing him a box wrapped with a pretty bow. Open it.” When he took the wrapping off, Danny’s eyes went huge. “Mom, that’s a girl’s ballet costume.”

“It’s for you dear if you want. But there are conditions. First, you must behave. Second, only your sisters and I will know that you’re a boy, there are no boys in the class. Your name in the class is Diane. Third, you have to let your hair grow a bit so that it looks girly. And finally, you must practice. Of course, if you like the class, maybe we can get your more costumes.”

Danny couldn’t believe his ears. He ran to his mom, giving her the biggest hug he could muster. Mom smiled.

“Can I try on the costume now?”

“Sure, go ahead.”

Diane put on the costume, including the panties, bra and tights that came with it.” Her face glowed. Before her mom could react, Diane ran outside and did a pirouette, the one she’d been practicing in her room since she saw the first class. Her face glowed with joy.