(1 of 3)
Marcine’s an old-fashioned girl who moved to our town and neighborhood when I was small. My only regret is we became close friends, more like a sister and brother over time. It’s the other boys at school she goes on dates with. Yes, there was one time we went to a movie together and I paid her way in. That was to see an old Disney movie being re-released.
Now it’s February and she’s already getting invites to the Junior/Senior Prom. She asked me earlier in the week if I could go shopping with her on Saturday. Once, I found out I was going to be the only one taking her I said, yes. What I didn’t know was it would begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue until late in the afternoon. It only ended then because she had a date to go out with a bunch of friends. I was invited to go along if I had a date.
Back to Saturday morning, the first stop was at a bridal shop for girls to find out their colors. Ms. Monica Lenz asked, “Hart, yes you Jonathan. Would it be okay if I demonstrated this with you, so I don’t have to choose between all these girls here?”
I quickly said, “No.” Only to be drowned out by the chorus of girls clapping and saying “Yes!” “Cute!” “Great!” They wouldn’t stop until I let up and went up to the front. I was even going to give Marci my car keys if I decided to leave, but she said no and the others encouraged me to stay.
Monica says, “Thanks, Jon. Please know it won’t hurt you to know your colors. It can be just as helpful to know for men their colors as well. Knowing their girlfriend's colors is even better. But,” she said, “it is just next to impossible to get you boys to realize that.”
She demonstrates with a jeans coat. “Almost all guys choose this traditional blue for a coat too rough around in. Who sees what it is doing to Jon’s skin tone?”
Several girls quickly agree that blue washes out my face. Monica says, “Wearing this, especially during cold weather makes them look like the life has been drained out of them. The utility brown would be better for them hunting deer in the grey of fall so they can blend into the scenery. Hopefully, the guy doesn’t have any red in his hair or he’ll look like Howdy Doody.
“Now when I put different makeup on Jon, watch how different blues, greens, reds, and yellows look on him. …Now when he puts on this blue skirt with this yellow/peach blouse looks in contrast to this blue and white and this yellow top. Marci is quick to respond, “That blue goes with the warmer blue, and yellow/ peach would be more attractive for him.”
Monica calls forward Terri Snow asking her to sit a couple of feet away from me. “Now look at the other top and skirt with Terri.” Everyone including Jon can see that the outfit now looks very attractive.
Terri asks, “What should a girl do if she has heavier eyebrows like Jon?”
Monica looks at me and then goes to her tray. “Like with Jonathan we can shape the eyebrows and take some of the extra eyebrow out as we do so. …Don’t worry Jon I won’t take much.”
I said, “I didn’t volunteer to lose any of my eyebrows.” Others giggled.
“With that done you can add eyeshadow to draw attention to the eyes and then add mascara for the eyelashes or a makeup pencil to outline the eyes bringing out the eyes. In this case, they are turning out quite beautiful. …I know for a fact that Jon was told those pretty eyelashes should be on a girl. How many of you agree.”
“Jonathan, if you have never dressed as a girl for changeover day you should.” When Monica speaks to the crowd I usually tune out. I shouldn’t have done that this time. As Monica said, “You know, I venture a guess that over half of the mothers of boys would like to see their son as a daughter at some time. Especially if he’s the last child, like Jon.
Marcine says, “Jon has two sisters and then his brother and him. You’re saying his mother might be willing that he would go on a date with us girls as another girl?”
Monica, “Woe, I wouldn’t go that far. If you told her that several of you girls wanted him to go out with you dressed as a girl. You shouldn’t mention the date part. She might just say yes then.”
“But today we’re talking about going to the Prom and I think that would be a stretch. …But using Jonathan and talking about someone with this slender frame one would go with a short dress and show off her pretty legs.” She pulls up Jon’s pant legs, “If you have pretty legs like this; showing them off would be a good choice. Jon, have you ever worn a pretty pair of stockings? …Tell him girls they’re to die for.”
=^-^=
“But now if Joni has already gone to the prom once and worn a short cute dress. This time Joni would probably want to be going in a more formal, eloquent gown.”
She turns to Jon asking, “Okay Joni I have two dresses of each kind. Which would you choose if you were wearing it to a special dinner?”
She asked again as Jon wasn’t paying attention again. She asks “So Joni which would you choose from these four for the prom?”
Jon says, “Well if it were just to a fancy place to eat. I’d hope it was that pretty white dress with the red and silver. But for the Prom, I think that beautiful shimmering blue gown would be the one.”
“Joni would you hold that up and let them see how well the colors of your makeup and the colors of the gown work so well together.” She asks him, “Were you choosing that dress, to go along with your makeup?”
Marcine says, “Does anyone know someone looking for a cute prom date?”
Riley says, “You know Marcine; it doesn’t have to be a boy asking Joni to the prom.”
Marcine says, “Jon had been nice enough to come with me, I’m the one shopping. I’m sorry we’re putting him through all this.”
Riley turns to ask Monica, “Would you allow Joni to wear the blue dress if the rest of us would pay for her to go out to dinner?”
Monica turns to me ready to ask something and I find myself afraid of what I’d say. I had never thought of something like this before, why would I or any boy? But this experience and my feelings for Marcine are stirring inside of me. Monica finally says to me. “If you were inclined to do it, Jon, what do you think your mother would say?”
“I’d love a date with Marcine, but this isn’t anything I would have thought. I’m sure my Mom, like me, would be caught by surprise.”
Monica asks, “So, would it be okay if I called and asked her?” I shrugged my shoulders. Monica replies, “With that let me set it up by saying, I’d pay for the dress and half the makeup. I would hope you and your mother could buy the accessories, a purse, and shoes.”
Marcine steps up and hands Jon’s phone to Monica. I hear someone answer and Monica says, “Mrs. Hart, this is Monica Lenz at the Mall. Jonathan got drawn into our colors demonstration and he was nice enough to help the young women out. He even showed a knack for discerning what would be the correct dress with the makeup we used on him. …Yes, you heard me right. Some of the crowd volunteered to pay his way for a dinner out with Marcine. That is if I’d let Joni use the dress he chose for such a night out.”
“Yes, I’m calling you to see if you’d permit him a girl’s night out with Marcine and the other girls. …Yes Beverly. Like many boys, I think he’s smitten with Marcine.”
Monica calls Jon to the side, “Jon, your mother wants to talk to you. I think she’s open to saying ‘Yes.’ Like myself, she wants to make sure you’re wanting this and are not overtly being pressured. If you decide not to I’d come up with a reason to keep pressure off of you and your mother.”
Jon knows Monica’s a friend to the family and he muffles a ‘Thank you.’
“Mom, it’s me,” I giggle thinking of the situation. “I wouldn’t even think of anything like this; if it was with anyone other than Marcine. But the idea of even a night out with her as a girlfriend seems attractive to me. …I don’t know maybe the fragrance, the makeup, and how pretty the dress is, has me thinking funny.” I have to describe it, “Which one: It was the shimmering blue dress that I said went well with the makeup they used on me.”
Mom says, “You know I can’t speak for your sisters but Shelley has a white pair of heels with straps that would probably be what you’d want with the white dress. They’d probably fit you. If it were a week from now you’d probably have time to get used to heels.”
Finally, she said, “If you’re willing to try this let me talk to Monica and we’ll see if it could be next Thursday or Saturday.”
“Monica,” I half smile and say, “My mother’s wanting to talk with you.” The staff from various mall stores are helping the high school girls see what colors work for them. Monica takes the phone to talk to my mother.
Marcine comes over to me, “Jonathan, I can’t believe this might be happening. You better realize if we do it. I’d want us to do it right with us having our hair done at a salon, along with a manicure and pedicure.”
“I don’t think Monica is planning to cover all that!”
Marcine says, “I know, that would be on us. However, if we’re to do this. I don’t think you’d enjoy that pretty evening dress without going all out, meaning the manicure and pedicure need to be included. …If you’d do it then I think we should go to the Culture Club.”
“I think even Joni would kick in some good money. Yes,” agrees Marcine.
Monica’s off the phone asking, “So what would you two prefer next Thursday or Saturday.”
Marci turns to me, “I don’t know who thought enough to give us time to get ready, but it’s a good idea. The atmosphere at the Culture Club will probably be more conducive to an enjoyable time out for the two of us on Thursday night.”
I said, “I am guessing that Marcine has been there where I am going by only hearsay. Marcine tells me it’s for the upward mobile crowd, not our folks.” Several teens and some college girls acknowledge they have gone there before and it was a special time out like us. Monica said, “For your special time as a woman, I am fairly sure you’ll enjoy it. Especially the attention you might get.”
Monica interrupts us, “Marci and Joni are you both comfortable with the dress Joni likes?” Hearing our agreement she shows three dresses she’s set aside. “Now Joni and Marcine I want to see if you two can agree on a gown Marcine might be wearing.”
Out of the three we agreed about which one shouldn’t be the choice. Marci and I both knew the dress and its colors were not for her.
Marcine was surprised when I brought over a dress. “You’re pretty observant for a boy Jonathan. So that is the one you’d pick?”
I say, “It’s all right, but you should have at least a choice of two suited to you. Hurry and let’s pick two that would work out better.”
Like I thought Marcine had already seen one she’d like. “If they would have picked this one,” she said, “it would compliment your dress and I’d like it.”
And I said, “And it would be a better choice for you. Hurry and pull out one in your size.”
Monica came back and gave me a stern look. “Where did that dress come from? It was not one of the choices.”
I said, “Not being ungrateful but it should be it’s a better choice.” Before she could respond, I said, “I’d even pay seventy dollars toward the cost to buy it.”
Monica embarrassingly hung her head and Myrt, the other woman broke in, saying, “You’re right it is a better choice. It is a better choice color-wise, the style suits her. The two could make it a special night out for you.”
Myrt said, “If she’d rather own it? I could sell it to you for 50% off. You paying seventy that would make it seventeen dollars for Marcine. This is a new style this spring.”
=^_^=
It begins to dawn on me that we’re doing it. “I can’t just go home or watch Marcine shop. How am I going to choose what I need and make sure things fit?”
I hear my mother’s voice from behind me. “With your mother’s help. First, show me the evening dress and tell me if you tried it on yet?”
“Mom, you’re not upset? Where did you come from, how did you know where we are?”
Monica lifted her phone, “Your mother and I are friends and I figured she needed to know where we are. She said you wouldn’t tell her. But in case she were to say no it would be better before we gave you the option.”
I say, “Mom does that mean you and Dad approved I can go dressed as Joni?”
I was looking at my Mom when she paused, “I say, ‘Yes’, and since I say so, your Dad will too… Well, he’ll probably shake his head, knowing it’s a done deal. Your generation is different and you do things we don’t quite understand.”
Myrt gave my Mom, Bev Hart, a list of things we needed to buy and what she might want to help us get organized in doing so.
Mom asked, “Marcine, I’m going to need to get a salon appointment for Joni; do you want me to make a salon appointment for the two of you for the morning of your dinner date?”
Marcine told her yes, qualifying it with, “Please, call Casual to Dressy Salon and ask for Margie and Selene saying it is for me and a friend this Thursday. I prefer 9:30 or 10:00.”
=^_^=
Once off her phone, Mom said, “Now Joni, we need to do some shopping of our own.” The first thing was I had to try on the blue satin dress and make sure I got the right size. Slender me, I was able to fit in a size 10. Having small feet for a guy, I fit into a size 8 1/2 women’s shoe.
We met back up with Marcine; who was delighted with our progress. We had a skirt and an everyday blouse. She suggested we get my lingerie at Victoria's Secret and makeup at Merle Norman or Sephora’s.
Marcine went with us to Victoria’s Secret. Stepping in there I felt immersed in the femininity of fragrance, and soft pastels. Mother asked if I was okay. “Mom, I’m not sure I should be here. Will Marcine laugh at me if I go through this?”
“She’s right here supporting you; it was you who decided this was worth a date of you two going for a special night out. You’ve chosen a very fashionable dress and helped her get one herself. Are you now saying you don’t want to be doing this?” Mom said, “You and Marcine played dress up at her house when you were younger. The young adult version has more to it. But it gives you two a chance to re-enter that friendship and see if it works or not for the two of you.”
I blushed as Jeanette was told I needed to get a bra and some panties. Jeanette took us to a sizeable area of bra displays and explained to me as though she was speaking to Marcine and my mother. I whispered approving two bra possibilities and Marcine handed Jeanette four panties I would be needing.
Jeanette was a caring professional as she led me through the bra selection process in a private room. I tried on both bras and was no closer to choosing one over the other. Jeanette told me, “Your chaperones suggested getting them both if you couldn’t decide.”
She did, however, she insisted that I take ownership of them and pay her for the bras and panties at the register. It was there that two of the girls from the morning session on colors took delight in seeing me. Daphne said, “You’re smart in doing this today instead of drawing out whether you doing it or not. That would make things more anxious for you.”
When we got to Sephora’s they had texted two more friends who met us shortly. Denise from Sephora asked me to put on my outfit, “It will make it easier to see this side of you.”
I sat in a makeup chair in front of Denise; she had an arsenal of products and utensils, brushes and combs, wands, applicators, sponges, and more. The colors and skin tones were pretty much as in the morning session only refined a little. She first gave me the makeup for evening wear. That I was impressed was an understatement. Then she went for a couple of everyday looks, I saw Joni coming to life. That I was buying over two hundred dollars of products for one day left me wondering.
Denise did say I should get my ears pierced, earrings, and a necklace and bracelet. Mom had said she’d pay half the cost; if I followed through with it. I wasn’t sure if I set myself up on solid ground or quicksand.
When the others went their various ways, and we went home; the journey took another step. I had left as Jonathan Hart, and I came home as Joni.
My brother’s eyes bulged out in shock. My father as my mother had surmised, expressed his bewilderment at what had transpired.
While my father and I talked; Mom called one of my sisters at college. Mom came back holding her phone for me to take. Linda said, “I hear you even have a voice for Joni. You are ahead of yourself some guys don’t get the courage to do this until they’re away at college.”
She and I talked until Mom interrupted us saying that was enough for now. The four of us were going out to eat. Strange enough to me, I decided to change into my second outfit. Usually what I was wearing was good enough; I was thinking differently than Joni. My makeup changed a little for the evening.
Scott asserted that I would need to, be it Jon or Joni, needed to use Linda’s room tonight. He preferred it that way until I was back to stay as myself. We went some distance to an Italian restaurant, where I ordered chicken alfredo despite usually preferring the marinara sauce. I was afraid of wearing sauce on my clothes or face.
I hadn’t imagined seeing my sister there; she arrived shortly after we had. I guess we went half the distance between our home and her university. Linda joyously hugged me like this sat next to me and thanked me for a good meal away from the university.
The discussion around the table was more fun than we had had in recent years. And my manners and eating were without incident. Going to the women’s restroom at the end seemed to flow with the day. As the Bible would say of creation, “There was day and night”, the first day of my new creation.
=^-^=
Sunday, we stayed close to home and I dressed as myself that is as Jon. My mind was working overtime as Joni, exciting me in new ways. Throughout the day, I was sure there was something I was missing. It was evening when Marcine called. She was eager to see me at school. SCHOOL! That was it.
“Don’t be nervous that others will know about you, and us going out to dinner.”
I calmly said, though I was inward anxious as could be, “It’s already in play; it is better that I just act nonchalant. I expect that it will be behind us soon enough.” She talked about corsages and we’d agreed that I’d get her a rose corsage and she’d get me some small flowers with a nice fragrance that wouldn’t clash with her perfume.
When we quit our call, I was surprised that we spent over an hour just talking. Here I was involved in girl talk. I paused and thought, I had enjoyed our conversation. There were more things to talk about than I usually thought.
Come morning as I was ready for school everything was boy Jon, except one. I decided to wear my silver stud earrings. Daphne and someone else had spread the word about me being dressed as a girl. Most of school went fine; though I was jostled a bit by bullying via name-calling, names I’d rather not repeat, one near fight, and twice my books or school supplies were knocked out of my hands.
One student drew a character of me in a dress and it was even blue like my gown. That I enjoyed and accepted it in the spirit he gave it to me. I ate lunch with Marcine. A couple of girls thought I made a silly decision. Other girls, enjoyed seeing that my fingernails were better manicured. Cindy who was there Saturday, brought a makeup bag she was sure would fit in a purse. I felt embarrassed a few times as Jon; more often than not I was feeling good. Joni was becoming a nickname many of the girls called me.
My Mom messaged me near the end of school that she had bought me another dress plus a skirt and blouse outfit. I message her back that I had been invited to Marcine’s house after school. There would be more girls there and it was for doing homework.
I received a message back: “No way, are you to go dressed as Joni elsewhere? If they wanted they were invited to our house.” Word of that change quickly circulated with Marcine’s friends and eight, instead of the three anticipated showed up. The study time quickly became a time to learn makeup and hairstyles. Cindy mentioned that Marcine liked Robert. And the discussion changed to include boys. Cindy asked, “As Joni, which boys would you find attractive?” I didn’t readily answer, but several girls offered up boys they thought I would be a good match.
Marcine even volunteered that she could see her and Joni double-dating with Robert and Kevin, a twelfth grader.
When Mom arrived home; Scott had confined himself to his room, and I was fully made up as Joni. Most of the girls stayed at our house, while I was sent to Linda’s room to change into the new dress and put on some pantyhose.
After the girls had left, my mother asked me to help prepare dinner. There was a new apron special for me. Mom suggested that since I allowed the girls to paint my nails with a top coat I should let it remain for going to school. I complained using Joni’s voice, to which Mother said, “I have half a mind to send you tomorrow and Wednesday fully as Joni.”
“I give Mom. I’ll keep the fingernails.”
We finished preparing supper ten minutes after Dad made it home. We were and he said, “Joni, how did you change from Jonathan’s messy eating habits?” Mother chimed in, “She’s also more willing to help around the house. She has manners that have rubbed off from Marcine.”
Scott said, “If you ask me, Jon’s faking it. I’m dismayed by all the attention he’s gotten. Jon has a slew of new clothes and for what; I think he enjoys playing the role of a girl. You should check his panties for signs of wet dreams.”
Mom said, “That’s enough Scott! You weren’t there when Jon got caught up in helping Marcine. He doesn’t deserve to hear this from you. I won’t have it at our dinner table.”
Mom followed me up to Linda’s room. “Dear, I hope I haven’t helped put anything upon you that you didn’t want. I am enjoying having a daughter during these fleeting moments.” I turned and found myself hugging Mom and resting my head on her shoulders. I wasn’t sure why.
“I kind of like it, but it’s going by too fast… It’s like it's so busy that the feelings are rushed. It wasn’t that long ago that I felt more like Scott.” Jon said, “I think Joni is a part of me and has been. What if it isn’t over after our dinner?”
Mom asked, “Are you thinking of something more like the prom? Or do you want more time as a girl?
He said, “I don’t know, but I like being me and I like being Joni. I am Joni!”
Mom says, “While you sound certain about that you don’t need to decide anything tonight. Would you mind a meal out with your Mom tomorrow night?”
I asked, “Can I go out with you as Joni?”
She said, “That’s what I was hoping.”
=^_^=
The next day I went to school with my fingernails polished; I enjoyed wearing a wide-strap camisole under my shirt. It was out of sight. Marcine picked me up and gave me a ride to school. Once we were walking in the parking lot toward the school. Marcine said, “I know your mother told you to keep your fingernails. They still look pretty; you’ll hear some grief from boys. It’s the camisole that surprises me. You must agree they’re nicer than an undershirt.”
I asked, “What made you think I have whatever you said?”
“Simple enough,” she giggled, “It lays differently than a T-shirt, and looking close I saw the outline of the wide straps.”
“What am I to do now?” he moaned. “You couldn’t take me home could you?”
“I’m not going to,” she said, “You chose to do it, enjoy it? You earned the right to.”
“How did I earn that?”
“You’re daring to be you; the right simply comes along with that.”
Just before we reached the school building, I gave her a big kiss and hug.
When we went home after school; we went to her house.
Marcine’s mother, Shirley Short, came up to me and presented me with a pink jeans skirt. “I got this in case you wanted to relax after school, like you used to.” I told her shouldn’t, to which she replied, “Does that mean you don’t want to wear it and its sweater? I checked with your mother and she said it was nice of me.”
“That is nice of you, and since my mother knows; I’ll wear it.”
=^-^=
The sweater was a soft green, and when I took it off at home; my mother suggested I should wear it the next day to school. I spoke up, saying it would have me going too far in dressing as a girl.
Mom still thought it would be okay; she said she’d write a note giving her permission. The next day I did so with a pair of black slacks. I bought the black slacks six months ago knowing they’re unisex.
During the second period, I got a request to go to come to the office. Where I met the psychologist, Sylvia Clark. She was personable; she wanted to talk about me dressed as a girl. “Your mother’s note said you might be transgender. I wanted to know if you’d like to talk about that.”
I told her it was just temporary as I had a dinner date as a girl the next day. She asked, “Does this mean you’re going with a boy?”
“No,” I said, “I helped some girls with a color session for makeup and clothes. And I was offered a dress to go on a dinner date with one of them.”
Sylvia smiled, “But I’ve heard you have worn different pieces of girls’ clothing as well as earrings, fingernail polish, lip gloss, and more. That doesn’t seem like a one-time event. It might be good to talk about the possibility of being transgender?”
I said, “I think, you’re making it out to be something bigger than it is.”
She asked, “How much girls’ stuff do you have?”
“Well, there’s the pretty gown. My mom insisted I get some nice shoes and accessories to go with it. Then there’s some makeup. A dress and a skirt outfit; Mrs. Short bought me a pink jeans shirt and this sweater blouse.”
“What about the girl’s flats that you’re wearing today? I suspect there are at least several hundred dollars of things. It doesn’t sound like a one-time thing.”
“I told my mother it was too much, but she said she was just being supportive of me.”
“Your mother’s the one who suggested you might be transgender in her note to the school.” Sylvia said, “I think that was a way of asking for a second opinion. Are you comfortable meeting with me some more? It would possibly be before or after school.”
“I’m not afraid to talk about it if it makes everyone more comfortable,” I said.
Thursday, I had a note to get out of school at noon as my appointment was moved to 1:00 p.m. It was for my salon appointment, but the note didn’t say anything about that. I was glad to see Selene again, and experience having my hair and nails done.
She had me pick out a hairstyle. The one I picked she said would be better with hair extensions. I said, “That is okay; my mother said it meant I’d have to keep them at least until Monday.”
Selene said, “You’d do well to keep them in over ten days. The style will look cute with the dress you showed me.”
“I’m only going to have a special dinner like this once with my girlfriend. I want to enjoy it,” I told her.
I could hear Marcine agreeing with me as she was in the next salon chair.
Selene gave me a facial as she leaned me back to have my hair shampooed. I was surprised when the facial peel showed stuff that lifted off my face. There were things like long eyelashes I was teased about as a kid. Mascara showed them to be long like others had said. The hair extensions were nice and made a bigger difference than I imagined. The pedicure and manicure also showed a nice change from the first time.
Marcine asked Selene to go lite on my makeup and I guess it was. I wanted to hug and kiss Marcine when we were done. But Marcine asked me to wait until after our dinner. Marcine was even prettier than I had seen her before. That made waiting more difficult.
To Be Continued... First of three chapters…
Dinner Night and More - Two of Three
=^_^=
Joni was home a little after 3:00, and she soon wore out her mother with her pacing, and asking questions, until her mother gave her the Seventeen Magazine to read. Please, don’t get up until you’ve read this through. When she quit reading and didn’t know the beauty tips on page 59 her mother sent her back to reading.
That was when Joni started to enjoy what she was able to learn. She heard terms and ideas she didn’t fully understand. She texted Linda and was learning what some meant. She and Linda dialogued via text until her sister called her and they talked for another half hour. They would have talked more but now her mother wanted her to get dressed. After she used the toilet; her mother appeared with a vagina gaff. It felt awkward to Jonathan, but soon delighted Joni.
Once Joni had on her gown, her mother asked her to get her new clutch purse on the small table next to her bed. “Mother, you should have this is beautiful, but what can it hold?
Her mother said, “Just enough for this evening. It is small enough to sit on your lap or next to your plate. Tonight’s makeup a small comb, tissue, and napkin.” Her mother watched as she filled the purse. “Now let us get you into your shoes and used to walking in them.”
It was good that her mother helped her with both. It was a feminine napkin her mother insisted upon. And her mother had her practice walking and using three steps as they had at the Culture Club. Joni became comfortable and was thankful her mother thought of it.
While Scott remained upstairs, her sisters Linda and Shelley both made video calls to see Joni dressed up. It set Joni’s spirit in femme mode. She was as gleeful as any girl she had seen. Mom took several pictures and even her dad was there to give her a good send-off. Jack Hart wasn’t sure about his responsibility when the daughter’s date was another girl.
When the limousine drove to the front of the house and Marcine came in; Joni was ready with her corsage for Marci. Having Marci pin a corsage on Joni capped the beginning of the dinner date. Joni even learned about a slight hug and an air kiss.
A chauffeur held the door to each of them, and they were off to the Culture Club. Joni had ridden by the Culture Club numerous times without noticing it. Tonight it seemed to sparkle and stand out. When someone opened their door and helped them out gracefully Joni felt like a princess. Marci whispered to her, “Don’t stare and look at everything. People will know this is all new to you.”
“But it is,” Joni replied.
“But you shouldn’t advertise it,” Marci said, “just enjoy.” That Joni did. Joni knew her Dad had given her plenty of money for the meal and tip. Plus, given his credit card, just in case. Fernando escorted the two young women to their table and held the chairs for each of them. Marci ordered the non-alcohol champagne and then They perused the menu. Joni would order the Spanish garlic shrimp and Marci the coconut shrimp appetizers. Upon her mother’s suggestion, Marci ordered a North Atlantic Lobster tail with asparagus as her vegetable. Joni ordered sirloin tips, a bed of rice, and asparagus. With the waiter taking their order Marci invited Joni to clean up with her in the women’s room. It was the first time Joni had experienced a woman inside the restroom offering towels as women made their way to wash their hands and freshen their makeup. Joni took her time, and quietly followed what others did.
Jon was usually quiet as he waited for his meal, but there was no shortage of conversation between them. The shrimp was delicious. She and Marci had shared a bite of each’s appetizer. Iced tea as well as water with lemon been served. Joni hadn’t seen any food fall into her lap, but she checked out of habit. She took pride that the napkin on her lap was spotless.
Joni worked up the courage to ask Marci a question burning in her mind. She asked, “Why are you so interested in me dressing up as a girl?”
Marci kind of giggled, “I’m impressed that you asked such a question, but it’s true I am. Your presence as Joni has the fascination of being a girl and a handsome boy. I’ve missed that since we were kids. No one has that… What do you like about being Joni; is it as much as it appears?”
“I like being bigger and there being so much more to being Joni now. I don’t feel like a boy playing dress-up. I can accept being Joni as well as a boy who cares about you. I’ve stepped into your world and like it becoming part of mine. The salon pampering made me happy and feel good in the way I look.”
The main course came and they continued to eat as they talked. Marci giggles at the fact that Joni didn’t have much hair to shave off her legs. Joni also commented on having stockings that stayed up on their own.
Marci was forward enough to ask, “Are you going to go back to being Jon all the time after tonight?”
“That was my intention, but the more I’ve gotten into being me, I’m hoping not to. Part of me is afraid of what my parents will say if I say no, another part of me thinks my parents know and are accepting of who I am tonight. But I’m afraid of knowing for sure.”
Marci takes a juicy bite of her lobster and dabs her lips, “I’m hoping you can stay as Joni. The encouragement my Mom got from your parents indicates to me they accept this side of you.”
Dance music began at 8:30, and finally, Marci asked for a dance. Marci let Joni lead as she was used to. When a second song began two young men asked to dance with them, one each took the hand of another. Joni danced with Brad, the two young men were handsome enough to please each of them. But they were happy enough with just one dance. Back at their table, Marci giggled, “At least now, I know you can follow another’s lead.”
We were done dinner, and ready to leave, but Marci asked for one more dance. Joni let Marci lead this time. She rested her head on Marci’s shoulder. Joni asked, “How can I get my mid-section to be like yours? Do you still go a lot of dancing when you’re home or aerobics?”
Marci said thanks to the compliment, and yes to dancing at home and doing aerobics. She said, “Several of us girls do aerobics three times a week if it works with our schedules. I hope you can be part of us.”
The chauffeur called to inform us he was outside. Marci asked that Joni be dropped off first. Once she was there, she stared at Joni wanting to say something, but she seemed scared. “I don’t want to take away from tonight, but there’s something I want to ask and I hope I’m not being too forward.” There was a long pause, Joni too was anxious about what it might be.
Joni said, “It's okay whatever it is, I can handle it. I’ve enjoyed tonight and being a close friend again.”
“Okay, but I don’t want to hurt you if it sounds silly to you.” She paused and tried reading Joni’s expression. I wonder if you would go with me to the Prom as Joni and go with me to the shore for the weekend? I haven’t talked about it with my friends or parents. I wanted to ask you first.”
Joni said, “I’ve been wanting to kiss you all night. And wow, now this.” Joni leaned forward, kissed Marci, and wouldn’t let go. “I’d love to, but my head is spinning, I was hoping to be a girlfriend, but the prom Marci that blows my mind.”
Marci kisses Joni, and asks, “Can I walk you to your door?” They kiss as they say goodnight and neither wants it to end. Joni says, “I better go in I’m sure my Mom is waiting. I’ll see you tomorrow at school.”
=^-^=
Joni walked in and leaned back against the door to close it, “Wow!”
She was sure her parents were in the kitchen or someplace waiting for when to go or be asked in. “Mom, Dad, don’t play so quietly. I don’t know what to do, but being quiet is not it.” Mom and Dad soon came out of the kitchen.
Scott called down from the upstairs landing. “Can I get a look at you if I’m not crude about it?” He looked and said, “At least you got a nice kiss out of it. Marci’s a beauty!” He then disappeared from the landing.
She looked again to her parents, and the three of them sat in the living room. Mom said, Other than you need to clean off some lipstick; it is good to see you. Tell us how your night was?”
Joni looked in her evening purse, found her mirror, checked her face, and wiped off the smudged lip gloss. She tried to remember how she should be. She sat up straight, put her hands in her lap, and took a breath. It was fantastic we had a good time. The Culture Club took our picture; we can each get a copy. The food was great and we had fun as we talked most of the night. We danced, two boys asked us to dance and then took hold of us and we danced one dance. Before we came home we had one more dance. But I never thought of just staying there and talking as we did.” The three talked some more.
Joni became anxious, “Can I talk to Mom alone, it’s not bad. It would just be easier talking to Mom first.” Mom invited Joni up to Joni’s room.
“So what’s so precious you need to talk to me first?”
They sat on the bed facing each other and holding hands. “Mom, we’re best friends again!” Mom said good, but she sat knowing there had to be more. “Do you already know?”
“Know what? I’m sure I don’t. It’s just I know you have something you need to talk to me about.” She paused, “I’m here for you.”
“Mom, how does a girl handle these things? She asked me to the Prom.” Joni got up and walked to the closet. “I need to get out of this gown and hang it up before I ruin it.”
Mom said, “You can do that but let’s talk first.” Joni had the back clasp undone and the zipper halfway down before she stopped. She sat again on the bed.
Joni said, “I was so happy with just a fantastic night, but to be asked to the prom I couldn’t have dreamed better. She’s asked me as Joni; I want to say yes will that be okay?”
“Are you telling me? That you didn’t already say, yes.” Joni’s expression went flat. “If I did, would I be in trouble?”
Mom grind, “No, you are not in trouble,but we do need to talk it through and this time your father will need to be in on the discussion.” Mom said, “If I remember right, didn’t you tell Dr. Sylvia Clark that this wasn’t about being transgender?”
“Don’t make fun of me, so it's more than I acknowledged.” Joni’s eyes became watery. “I confess that there is also something called happy tears.” Mom moved closer so Joni could cry on her shoulder.
“Truly, you belong in Lind’s room as you share tender hearts,” said her mother, “like her, take time and don’t be in a rush.”
“Thanks, Mom,” Joni said, “I think time will see it to be a good decision.” Her mother guided her in hanging her gown, cleanse and moisturize her face, and even preparing her hair for sleeping. Joni put on comfortable pajamas and her robe and went to watch the news with her parents and brother.
The next day, it was Joni who appeared at school. She avoided her mockers as best she could and stayed close to others when advisable. During lunch, she sat with girls in her grade and was well-received. They enjoyed Joni talking about the Culture Club, though she did not mention dancing with a guy.
She did get to talk with Sylvia Clark, the school psychologist. “I’m actually excited to meet with you today; last night was wonderful and I wanted someone I’m comfortable sharing it with.”
“I appreciate you trusting me to share what happened. I agree with your mother to take time to think about the invitation to the Prom. We have had one boy three-years-ago who went to the Prom dressed in a gown.”
Joni eagerly told Ms. Clark, “That was Brian Moore; he was in my sister Shelley’s class. That was bigger news than it would be now.”
Joni was in her last class of the day when she got a text from Marci. “There’s a dance tomorrow night at the community youth center will you go with me and have some fun?”
Joni, “You know quite well that I’ll still have my fancy hair and be seen as Joni. I don’t think I want to be invited to dance by boys. I would need to talk with my parents. The Waverly Putt, Putt Golf Course would be an alternative.” Messages stopped until after school.
=^-^=
When Joni got home, she had text messages from both sisters. They were pretty much identical. They would be home the Thursday and Friday before Mother’s Day; they would have finished their final exams for college. Their question to Joni was, “Do you want to be Joni that Saturday when we take Mom out for our traditional Mother/Daughter dinner? Jon’s not invited.” Joni was excited as it meant acceptance; she was sure they had checked with Mother, and it would be okay. It was a step away from her mother saying yes to the prom.
I communicated to them that would be fun.
Anya, a close friend of Marci, called, “Hey, Marci showed me your picture from the Culture Club. You make a good-looking girl. I wonder if you still have your fancy hair, that would be an ideal time to look for a prom dress… I talked to Marci and she showed me a picture of her prom dress and asked if I’d help you look for something that would compliment you two together. Would that be okay with you?”
It made sense, so I called down to my Mom. Mom called back, “See if Anya’s the one Marci suggested to go with us.” It was, so I was to ask if 10:30 would be too late to go shopping. “I don’t know if I can go yet?”
Anya, said, “It would be better if we went no later than 9:00.”
Mom then called me down to talk with her, “I apologize, but your father and I talked and agreed you could go to the prom. Between now and then, we’d like you to do a bit more work around the house. Dad even suggested that you could clean out and paint the activity room. I or your dad could help.”
I asked, “Mom let’s just talk about the Prom and getting me a prom gown. Let’s put aside how you forget to tell me?” Then I informed my Mom that Anya used to go to our schools before her family moved. Mom agreed to take Anya and me, and that we’d pick up Anya and go from there. There were quite a few places near there to shop, and we hoped it would help in selecting something special, and unique.
She said she would not show me a picture of Marcine’s prom dress; Marci wanted it to be a surprise. It was good to have a video call with Anya. She had been a shy girl before she moved away but now she appears to have come out of her shell. I also learned that she will be at the prom with Brian Daley, a senior from our school.
Come Saturday morning, my Mother had me awake around 6:00 and hurry to get ready. We were at Anya’s house, by 8:00 which I thought was early. But then I wasn’t thinking. Mom wanted to meet Anya and her mother Marie Andrich. Ten quick minutes for me became forty minutes. I hadn’t seen Anya since she moved away and she had transformed into a beautiful woman, and like Marci, she was already talking about universities. She was delighted that I was susceptible to being teased and that I took it well.
We went to Jensen’s Bridal and Gown Boutique; Guthrie Jensen the owner was a flamboyant and much-involved owner/manager. Guthrie took great interest in me. He had already talked to Anya and knew the color and style of Marci’s gown. He showed me a slender pink gown with a price tag that blew my mind. It was satin, and it had lace lacework which I loved. He even talked me into trying it on; which felt and looked wonderful on me. But its $895 price tag was out of my league. Before we left to look elsewhere he told us that he would sell it to me for $435, if I’d let him take a photo shoot of me in the gown. All of us were tempted. We did want to look elsewhere, plus Anya wanted to talk to Marci before we could consider buying it.
One interesting tidbit was Anya seemed to rush me past an amazing blue silk dress.
We were at the Bridgewater Bridal Shoppe when Marcine got back in contact with Anya. She and my mother talked. I had two gowns that I had selected to try and was getting into the first one. It was very pretty and at $200 I thought it was amazing, but both gowns there were pale in comparison to what I tried at Jensen’s.
My Mom stopped me after the first gown; saying that Marci favored me getting the gown at Jensen’s. Mom allowed Anya to drive our vehicle as she wanted to talk to me in the back seat. Mom said, “Joni, Anya has heard back from Marci, and she’d like you to get the dress that Guthrie has offered to you. I’m sure Guthrie will want to celebrate your decision, please be respectful.”
“Mom, he’s different, but he’s unique and interesting as well. I just don’t want him taking a personal interest in me,” said Joni.
They were soon there and what Joni didn’t observe was the blue gown she admired was out of sight. The emphasis was on getting Joni into her gown for a fitting. Guthrie wanted Joni to wear a vagina gaff for protecting the gown in case Joni got too excited and had an accident. The idea caused Joni to blush in front of her Mom, Anya, and Guthrie. Blushing was something she was getting used to.
To Be continued, This was two of three chapters…
- Three of Three
=^_^=
Previously: We went to Jensen’s Bridal and Gown Boutique; Guthrie Jensen the owner was a flamboyant and much-involved owner/manager. Guthrie took great interest in me. He had already talked to Anya and knew the color and style of Marci’s gown. He showed me a slender pink gown with a price tag that blew my mind. It was satin, and it had lace lacework which I loved. He even talked me into trying it on; which felt and looked wonderful on me. But its $895 price tag was out of my league. Before we left to look elsewhere he told us that he would sell it to me for $435, if I’d let him take a photo shoot of me in the gown. All of us were tempted. We did want to look elsewhere, plus Anya wanted to talk to Marci before we could consider buying it.
One interesting tidbit was Anya seemed to rush me past an amazing blue silk dress.
We were at the Bridgewater Bridal Shoppe when Marcine got back in contact with Anya. She and my mother talked. I had two gowns that I had selected to try and was getting into the first one. It was very pretty and at $200 I thought it was amazing, but both gowns there were pale in comparison to what I tried at Jensen’s.
My Mom stopped me after the first gown; saying that Marci favored me getting the gown at Jensen’s. Mom allowed Anya to drive our vehicle as she wanted to talk to me in the back seat. Mom said, “Joni, Anya has heard back from Marci, and she’d like you to get the dress that Guthrie has offered to you. I’m sure Guthrie will want to celebrate your decision, please be respectful.”
“Mom, he’s different, but he’s unique and interesting as well. I just don’t want him taking a personal interest in me,” said Joni.
They were soon there and what Joni didn’t observe was, that the blue gown she admired going out, was out of sight. The emphasis was on getting Joni into her gown for a fitting. Guthrie wanted Joni to wear a vagina gaff for protecting the gown in case Joni got too excited and had an accident. The idea caused Joni to blush in front of her Mom, Anya, and Guthrie. Blushing was something she was getting used to.
NOW: We were back at Jensen’s Bridal and Gown Boutique; Anya led me back to the fitting area. She asked the woman, “Where’s the pink gown?”
=^_^=
Now: She said, “Guthrie had us set it aside; he hoped you’d be back maybe tomorrow. I see it hadn’t taken that long. Guthrie will be glad?” She paused, doubt intruding into her voice, “You did come back to buy it haven’t you?”
“Yes,” Mother replied, “Her Prom date encouraged us since we were here to come back. It was such a beautiful gown; we didn’t want it to conflict with her gown.”
The seamstress took my mother aside and whispered to her, “That must be why we moved the blue gown from view.”
Guthrie was soon there to oversee the actual fitting. He was now sporting a different sequined pantsuit. “Honey, I am so glad you will be wearing this gown. It thrills me that another boy isn’t afraid of being so attractive.”
Joni said, “I wouldn’t say I wanted to be attractive as complimenting Marcine my prom date.”
Guthrie said, “You know you’re likely to attract some male admirers as well; hopefully, that won’t upset you.”
Anya spoke up, “My Brian plans to ask for a dance or two with you?”
Joni asked, “Please don’t put him up to that.”
After Joni took the gaff from Guthrie to put it on, his Mother gave him a silk panty. “I think you’ll like wearing these. Once you have them on, step out and we’ll help put the gown on.”
Anya and Joni’s Mother helped her to put on her gown at the request of Martha the seamstress. His Mother responded to Joni’s glee as the gown slid down her body. “You’re more girl than I thought. Come prom night with Marci the feelings should be even greater.”
Martha uses a thin sliver of soap to mark where to take in the gown. “Young man, you will make quite an attractive figure on the dance floor if you are as graceful as you appear.”
They were about done when Marci showed up at the fitting room, “My you’re looking beautiful in that gown. Just think what it will be like after we’ve been to the salon and with your hair and makeup done?”
“I thought we weren’t to see each other’s gowns?” said Joni.
Marci said, “I don’t want you to see mine; I didn’t think you would mind. Plus, I brought you some jeans that we might do something together after this. Your Mother texted me that the day has been long enough for her.”
Joni said, “You should have brought something other than designer jeans.”
Anya said, “It’s a girls’ night out to celebrate your new gown. Cindy is going to meet us at the Frontier Restaurant to eat and then we’ll decide together what we want to do.” Anya giggled to herself, and then was asked why by the others, “I was just wondering if the two of you could be selected Queen and King of the Prom?”
“Technically, no the king would need to be a senior or junior.”
They chose to go bowling and the first thing to indicate something was different. Anya called Brian to meet them at the alleys, and Cindy indicated Alex was meeting her. Marci then confessed she asked Robert and Marty so we all could play as teams of a boy and girl.
Joni asked to speak to Marci and they talked. “Why are we doing this?”
Marci said, “Yesterday I said you needed experience being around a mixed crowd and doing things. You said you understood. I’m not trying to put you on the spot, but I told you earlier you would have been worrying ahead of time. This way, you’ll get the experience and we can get on with things.”
“That might have been so,” said Joni, “But I wished you could have warned me a little.”
Cindy said, “You have a fifteen-minute warning, how long did you want to get nervous?”
The evening went well; the guys were one to two years older than Jon. They threw heavier balls and smashed the pins they kit. Joni wasn’t a bad bowler and she and Marty won two of the three games we played. Except for the frames she made two strikes and got seven pins on the next ball it went well. That was until Marty picked her up and swung her around once.
Thankfully, it was Marci who gave Joni the goodnight kiss.
Come the morning Mom and I were up early, and she asked me, “So how did you like yesterday?”
“Well you know I loved the dress, so you must be wondering more about the rest. Did you have an inkling that some guys were going to be part of it?”
Mom said, “I didn’t, but you told me Marci asked about you getting used to guys being around you. So was that part of girls' night out?” I nodded my head, and she said, “You tend to worry about what might scare you; how did it go?”
“I felt like a girl all night. We went bowling and I was matched up with Marty Jones. I made two strikes and was going for the third but when I only hit seven. Marty greeted me by lifting me and twirling me around once like someone special. I almost kissed him. I didn’t think I’d feel like that with a guy.”
She asked, “Was that bad?” I had to think about that. “Honey, I don’t want you to make quick decisions, just be mindful and think for yourself. I am glad that you trust me to talk with me. You are not my little boy; you have a good head on your shoulders.”
I shampooed my hair out with my regular shampoo; some of the curl and silky feel of my hair came out. I was getting dressed, when Mother knocked and called in, “Get dressed and we’ll go to another church.” I knew the church she was talking about and it would accept me either way I dressed.
The service wasn’t anything unusual, but being in an accepting community of worshippers was. Silvia from school was there and she greeted me afterward. She asked, “Does this mean, you accept yourself or is it just a safe place?” She handed me a lemonade, “You don’t need to answer.” We talked and I was comfortable making a new friend. She, her Mother, my Mom, and I decided to go out to eat. Leslie came with us, which caused me to miss Marci.
I had decided to go to school the next two weeks Monday through Wednesday as Jon; Thursday and Friday as Joni. The principal expressed his disapproval, but nothing more. Steven a close friend welcomed seeing Jon, but somehow the friendship was different. We played video games at his house, where his sister Sharon, my classmate, was amused to see me again as she had before.
The next day Thursday, she curtly said hello seeing me as Joni. “Are you going to be my friend today? Please sit with my friends and me so I might get to know this side of you.” When I did; they talked a lot about my fashion sense as Joni. “You seem more relaxed as Joni.”
It was funny as Steven’s sister; I knew her but didn’t think she ever noticed me. Now as another girl and a friend of her brother, she’s warm and conversation comes easy. I told her that as a boy with two sisters, I had wondered about being a girl and what it would be like. Sharon’s friends giggled. I told her Marcine Short, her friends, and her mother helped me. “I learned from them and Monica Lenz at the mall during a session on colors; it progressed to a dinner and now the prom.”
Sharon giggled, “So, you’re the boy they did that to… Did you go on a dinner date with Marcine to the Culture Club?” Sharon enjoyed hearing about that night, and how it led to my being invited to the Prom. Sharon was going with Eddy a Junior. The interesting part of our conversation was when she encouraged me to keep Steven as a friend. “I doubt if he’ll date you, but a guy friend is good to have.”
Prom day had finally come and Marci and I were early to the Casual to Dressy Salon. Selene was again my beautician, doing my hair and makeup. Choi remarked how my feet were much better; Selene said the same about my hair and complexion. Marci commented on my wearing a sweatsuit with a zip-down top. My hair was again given a perm, but with no need for hair extensions to be added.
Anya was to meet us at Marci’s house and get ready for the Prom there and I went home to get dressed and to be picked up as Marci’s date.
I had been driven crazy by Marci’s desire to surprise me with her gown; when she came to pick me up. I was near my front window when a limousine came to pick me up. My mother and sisters shooed me away, so I didn’t see Marci and her gown. Grandma Hart escorted me to my parents' room and I was hidden away.
I could hear all the women talking and having fun without me, which frustrated me even more. When they wanted me to come to the living room; Grandma said, “We need help with her makeup; she has pouted and ruined her makeup. Linda came in and repaired the damage she said was caused by her spoiled brother.
When I finally came out and saw Marcine and her gown; I was stunned; I was sure I had seen the gown before but couldn’t remember where. Marci said, “This gown is the reason I knew of your beautiful gown. Don’t you think our gowns are fantastic together?”
Mother replied, “Anya showed me a picture of it when she asked my help to get you to go back and get the pink gown. The picture didn’t do justice to seeing it now, but it was fantastic enough!”
“You wore four-inch heels; was that to make sure I’m your junior?” I said.
Marci said, “Well look at you; you weren’t even used to heels until I introduced them. Let’s celebrate how nice we look together.” I felt like the luckiest girl; what a great feeling to have as a boy.
Then I asked, “Why did you want us to be ready almost two hours early?”
“It’s not early at all. We need to get pictures here, then go back to my house. Mom wants to see you and get plenty of pictures of us together. There’s the promenade; seeing classmates, and more pictures. You will have a growing group of fans.”
Linda and Shelley want a picture of the four of us; then my brother Scott is pushed into the last photo. “I thought you were embarrassed by me.”
Scott said, “I didn’t see you as my sister before. You two are smashing!”
Marci’s Mom invites us into their house and has me pose for a shot sitting on Marci’s lap. “You know Joni from the back I can easily see where your hips are taking shape.” I stand and look back into a mirror.
Shortly after we are there Anya and Brian arrive. They are riding with us in the limo, and after the Prom we’re back here and Brian is driving us in his car to the shore. Brian whispered to me, “Are you okay if I dance with you a time to two tonight?”
“It’s supposed to be one dance,” I responded. Marci and Brian both smiled, which worried me.
Once at the Promenade, Marci took me over to a full-length mirror. Side by side I checked our appearance, I saw I had a figure like Marci, not quite as good. Much more than Jon should have. I thought to myself, but somehow Marci heard me, “I have hips like a girl.”
Marci simply said, “Yes, you are a girl. Joni, you're the one I brought with me, I love you.” She stepped behind me and placed her hands on my hips. “It’s one of the things I enjoy about you.” Marci and Joni walked through hand in hand with others looking on and commenting on how well they looked together. One person began a snide remark only to be drowned out by others in the crowd.
All the Prom goers talked briefly before returning to their vehicles. Marci and Brian took Joni and Anya out for a special dinner and two other prom couples joined us. We would arrive to the Prom shortly after it had begun. Brian and Marci both bought gifts of necklaces for us on their dates. After they were opened and saw how beautiful each was; Marci and Brian placed them on our necks.
The food is delicious; I love the time whether it is talking with Marci or the others around the table. I enjoy the short time in the women’s room checking my makeup and hair; being another of the girls.
Marci was invited to the prom last year, but this was my time to step into the magic of my first prom. Our posed pictures by a professional There’s so much more: the sights, fragrances, and sounds caught by a phone camera or just by sight or smell. I slipped and almost fell once dancing with Marci. I wished I had practiced more in heels, but this was my Cinderella story.
It was not only Brian that I danced with, but Sharon’s date, as well as two other guys. Two of them stole a kiss, and I enjoyed one, Caden’s more than expected. But nothing outshined my time with Marci.
I picked up my overnight bag from my house. Linda said she checked it and put in my swimming suit, sandals, and perfume. Marci told me sex was not planned as part of the weekend. Linda did not mention that she replaced my pajamas with a lacy baby doll nightie. Suffice in saying I learned new things being a woman. There was being snuggled. I was exhausted, getting out of my clothes, cleansing and moisturizing, and getting ready for bed. We took time for some affection, but it was later when Marci spooned me in her hug as we fell asleep. I was never at peace with her.
The sun and air were warmer than the water; talking and getting a good tan made the day. A sophomore boy going to the prom was never in my plan. Nor was becoming Joni.
On our second night, I made sure I returned the love I received the night before, yet once again, I felt I was the recipient of more than I gave. Marci gave me hugs and kisses that were outside of my experience before.
Weeks later, Marcine walked with me in the park; she talked about me continuing to grow. “Joni, you should know next year and even more when I’m in college; I’m going to move on and I want you to grow as well. We’ll always be best of friends, but if we’ll ever be in love with each other like this in the future I don’t know. I hope you will go to a different college and have new experiences. I love the idea of you being both Jon and Joni; I love the focus on being Joni. I will always love you.”
I decided to pursue my life as Joni, and I can tell you now; that it takes some interesting twists.
The End, kind of…