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Leslie

This is the third chapter of the sequel to the novel Taylor, which was published as a Kindle book. All the proceeds from Taylor and Taylor, Too! are for BigCloset. I hope you take the time to read this and tell me what you think. As always, I appreciate constructive criticism. I think it only makes the story better. I am writing this one chapter at a time, so your imput is important in making this a better book.

Chapter Three

After she got off the phone with Meredith, Taylor got ready to call Andrew. They were going to FaceTime. She was looking forward to this call and couldn’t stop thinking about her boyfriend. This was all just so crazy. Everything had been going at lightning speed since her first date.

But, then, her phone rang. It was Julie. Taylor took a deep breath and smiled. Then she opened her phone and lay back down on her bed.

“Hi, Julie. How are you?”

“I’m great, Taylor. I just got off the phone with Meredith and she says you’re going to come to my house and hang with us at the pool. That is so great!”

“Well, that’s kind of you to invite me. I’m really looking forward to catching up.”

“Catching up, right? We have a lot of catching up to do. I’m happy you want to be part of the gang again. And after seeing you at the mall with your new boyfriend, well, so cool. I can’t believe have nice you looked. And I’m not surprised that the modeling company came over and talked to you. You are perfect.”

Taylor laughed out loud. “Perfect? As in having a skinny boy body with no curves? I think that I’m perfectly hideous.”

“Nah. I’m sure you’ll get your girl body eventually. I looked up trans and scrolled through YouTube. There’s lots of pretty beautiful trans women there. And some of them are models and movie stars. And, I’ll be able to say I knew Taylor long before she started her transition.”

“Julie, thank you for understanding.”

“No, seriously, Taylor. This is the twenty-first century and all that good stuff is out there waiting for you. And, I remember you always being so nice wearing your Halloween costumes to school and wanting to play with the girls. You were always so sweet.”

“Thank you. It’s all been kinda crazy here.”

“Yeah. But you gotta tell me everything. What’s with your boyfriend?”

“Andrew? Well, he’s so great. I never had these kinds of feelings for anyone, and now I’m in love with a real live person.”

“I hear you. But, you can’t tell me you never crushed on anyone.”

“Well, sure. I’ve always had a crush on Darla and Abby, Emma’s friends. But that was different. There are so many differences between my love for the girls and Andrew. First, they’re my sister’s best friends, truly standing by each other faithfully forever. Second, they’ve always been so kind to me. Those two never made me feel bad about wanting to dress up and be a girl. They saw my need and always treated me with love and respect. And Third, they spent the whole day helping release Other Taylor as they got me ready for my first date. As the two of them helped, they gave me the confidence to get all dressed up . They both coaxed me to break through and bring out the Other Taylor, who had been sleeping for too many years.”

“Oh, wow! You’re so lucky!”

“Really? You think I’m lucky?”

“Sure. You’ve got a great sister and it sounds like her friends really love you, too. I hope we can be great friends like that. But, tell me how it all happened. I love the details!”

“You’re not laughing at me, are you?”

“Hardly! Maybe I’m jealous of how much love surrounds you.”

“Well, it does seem crazy. And, once the girls helped let Other Taylor loose, that’s when everything magic really started happening.”

“So, your old boy Taylor is the one you’ve been hiding in for the past couple of years, right?”

“Right. We figured out that I’d been abused when I was twelve about being trans and it turned me around. I guess I retreated and tried to be a boy.”

“Uh-huh. We all know that. You went from a happy girly to a very quiet, withdrawn boy. We really missed you. So, you’re Other Taylor now?”

“Yeah, confusing, huh? Old Taylor was trying hard to be a boy and was failing miserably. Other Taylor is really me, a trans girl.”

“Okay. I get it. So, Other Taylor is here to stay?”

“Oh, yeah. No more going back.”

“So, tell me about your big date and meeting your hunky boyfriend.”

“Well, Darla and Abby helped me get all pretty on Saturday. So I got all ready to go out on a movie date with a sixteen-year-old cousin of Darla’s boyfriend. But, this guy was a lug who was all sad and despondent over being forgotten by his parents and so caught up in himself that he was ignoring me. Me, who had worked so hard to be convincing and good enough; well, I got angry. Suddenly, I had been worrying so much about being accepted, well, I guess I kinda lost it and spoke up.”

“Oh, wow! That’s crazy! What happened then?”

“Well,I guess I forgot about myself and started reasoning with this guy and tried to talk some sense helping him lose his bad attitude. The big doofus finally started listening.”

“Wow. Then what happened?”

“Well, I guess he started to wake up and look right at me. I think he thought a real girl was taking her time to help him. And when he realized he had a fifteen-year-old to thank, he got turned around and couldn’t have been nicer.”

“That’s so sweet. How’d that make you feel?”

“Well, I hope you don’t laugh, but, well, I fell head over heels for Andrew, and was shocked when he was feeling the same way about me. And it was all magic because I discovered that I was real, not a just a fantasy.”

“What’s that mean?”

“Well, up until that day, I thought that my girl part, who I’d always thought of as Other Taylor was a make-believe dream. Until that night, I never realized that I was trans. I never even knew what trans was. But, once I really understood who I was, well, I sent the boy side of me packing, hopefully never to return. And since then, I’ve happily come out and shared my self-discovery with everyone I know.”

“Wow, what a story! And I can’t wait to hear more when you come to my house. And stop worrying about us. We are going to be best friends.”

“Thank you, Julie. I’m going to start crying now ‘cause you’ve made me so happy inside.”

“Bye, Taylor. You are a real girl to me.”

“Thank you, Julie. I’m really crying now.”

Taylor disconnected and wiped the happy tears from her eyes. So much love filled her heart. Her sister had become her biggest cheerleader. And her mom and dad proudly stood up for her. Taylor knew that she’d always loved Abby and Darla, but now she loved Andrew even more. He was dreamy. He knew she was trans and loved her more.

She still wanted to talk, so she text him and started a FaceTime connection. As she did, she thought of how things had changed in her house. New Rules!

A lot of new rules had happened since she came out. Her parents were treating her like a regular fifteen-year-old girl. So, one new rule was no boys, including Andrew, Steven, and Tommy, were allowed on her floor where she had her bedroom and game room. Until this weekend, she, Tommy, and Steven always hung out together between her bedroom and her game room. No one had second thoughts about lying on the bed together or crowding on the couch. But now that she was a trans girl, things were totally different.

And now, her game center had to come downstairs. Another new rule was she had to be supervised when she was with a boy. And Taylor had a hard time understanding this. Why would she want to kiss Tommy or Steven? Ugh, Tommy? Steven? C’mon, they were her best friends and also approved of trans Taylor. The idea of kissing either one was too strange to think about. But her parents made an absolute rule about boys since Taylor was now a trans girl.

Taylor would have loved to have Andrew up on her bed. They could have spent hours lying there, just talking and touching. Taylor knew it wouldn’t happen, but Andrew was an excellent boyfriend and so understanding.

Taylor’s latest fantasy was that her fairy godmother would change her into a real girl. She pictured herself lying naked with Andrew by her side. Taylor imagined that she had turned into a genetically perfect teen and now she was all over Andrew. She saw herself climbing on top of his prone body. She had a vision of feeling his strong muscles as she snaked up over him. She couldn’t hold back as she was hugging and kissing her. It was just Saturday night on the golf course, except they were both naked.

And, in her fantasy, Andrew was fantastic about making love to her. Slowly, they had removed all their clothes and touched and nibbled every part of each other’s bodies. Taylor pictured herself having to shush him as he moaned passionately as she kissed him everywhere. And she couldn’t stop giggling. But, as their passion grew, a volcano went off in her head and body. She gasped, moaned, and had this fantastic feeling she’d never had ever before. She was biting Andrew’s fingers as he tried to keep her quiet.

After that, she could see them lying together on top of their sheets. They were holding each other, just enjoying the bliss that their sex together had created. Taylor was swooning just being in Andrew’s arms.

And, of course, in this fantasy, everyone in her family was somewhere in the house. And no one seemed to notice that Taylor had become a genetic female and had the most beautiful sex with her boyfriend. It was like it was all normal day, but obviously, everything was now perfect.

They’d just made passionate love, and when they were done, Andrew had asked her to marry him. Now, they just touched each other all over, happily kissing. They would go downstairs together, and Taylor would announce that Andrew had just proposed to her. She would show off her ring, looking so lovely on her perfect hand with perfect fingernails. Everyone would ooh and ah.

In her dream, Taylor was a real woman. She would become Andrew’s wife, and they would have beautiful children together. Taylor would be a beaming mother as she toted two kids in a carriage to the park and back. And when Andrew got home, she’d have changed into a beautiful dress, fixed her hair and makeup, and their beautiful children were all waiting to hug their daddy.

“Hey.”

Andrew’s voice brought her out of her fantasy. Taylor was brought out of her daydream by the sound of his voice as he connected with FaceTime.

Suddenly, they were talking, and she looked at her future husband on her computer screen. Andrew was the most beautiful man in the world, and he loved her. She wondered what he would say if she told him about her real girl fantasy. He’d probably think she was mental.

Taylor took a deep breath and tried to be cool. “Hey, yourself. Whatcha’ doing?”

“Reading. I got my reading list for next year's AP English class. I have five books to read this summer and ordered them the other day. So they just arrived from Amazon an hour ago. I just started cracking the first one.”

“What’s it called?”

“Catcher In The Rye. I just started it, but it’s cool. It’s all about a kid, kinda rebellious.”

“Uh-huh. I know. I read it.”

“Wait. Seriously? How’s a fifteen-year-old girl already reading high school books? I mean, are you reading them in school already? I thought I went to a prep school that was pretty advanced.”

Taylor laughed. “My mom always buys me a pile of books to read every year. She picks out great books, so I just keep reading. Sometimes we talk about them at dinner.”

“So, we can talk about Catcher In The Rye when I finish it?”

“Of course. We can even read books together. You can bring your book over here, and I can read one of mine. Even my parents would approve of us reading together.”

“Uh, that would be great to hang out with you. Speaking of parents, mine called this morning.”

“Wow, that’s great. Where are they?”

“I think they’re in Rome, but I’m not sure. My mom did all the talking and breezed through their itinerary. I just listened ‘cause I already had a copy of the flight plans my dad made up. After Rome, they are doing a mad tour of all of Italy and Greece. She talked about the museums and the restaurants. And she mentioned my cousin’s parents, too. It sounds like everyone is having a good time.”

“Are you still jealous of not going on a vacation with your parents? Does that still make you sad?”

“Well, I was really upset until I met you. I was all bummed out because they had just struck me here in Delaware with my cousin. And nobody ever thought to ask me like I needed a babysitter. But, now I’d swap spending time hanging out with parents with you anytime. I just wish we could be together more. Oh yeah, and I mentioned you to my mom.”

“Really. What did you say?”

“That I met this girl I’ve got a crush on, and she’s terrific."

“Seriously? Did you give them any details?”

“A few. I described you and told them about our date to the movies and how we had chaperones with your older sister’s friends. Oh, yeah. And I mentioned you were fifteen.”

“That’s all?”

“Sure. They don’t need to know anything else. Too much information, right? They don’t need to know your shoe size.”

“Nine and a half, narrow.”

“I’m writing this down so when I buy you your glass slippers for the ball they will be a perfect fit. Seriously, when they come back through the Wilmington Airport and before they head back to Pittsburgh, they really need to meet you. I know they’ll love you as much as I do.”

Taylor was trying to digest meeting parents who approved of their son being gay. She wondered what they’d say if they knew that she was trans? And could a gay boy love a trans girl forever?

Then Andrew’s voice brought her back to Earth. “So, what’s up? How are things going, and when can I come over to visit?”

“Everything is goin’ okay, but it kinda feels crazy over here. Everything is moving so fast. Mom is about to start this doctor's process for me. Tomorrow, she’s set up an appointment with the lab for blood work. And then I have a doctor’s appointment in the morning with my old pediatrician. That doctor has to okay that I’m healthy enough to start taking medication for my transition. Then, I’m going to a dojo to buy my karate gear for my self-defense course. I’ll be ready to defend myself against trolls, and just in case you try to pin me or something like that. Or maybe, I’m going to learn how to pin you.”

“Taylor, I'm here and ready anytime you want to practice karate or judo on me. Course, if I pin you, I rule. You’ll have to do whatever I want.”

“Andrew, then, I might just lose on purpose. Maybe I want to do whatever you want.”

Taylor heard Andrew’s breathing. It had become deeper and sounded labored. She immediately panicked, thinking that she had upset him. “Uh, did I say the wrong thing?”

Andrew was still breathing loudly. “No. No. It’s just that I still remember what it was like fooling around on the golf course with you that night.” He sighed and let out a breath. “Picturing our date inside my head has been the best part of staying here with my cousin. I can still smell your perfume; it was heaven for me. Now, compare that to hanging around my sweaty cousin. I don’t think the guy showers very much. He stinks of bad breath and sweat. Bradley is still a jerk. But he’s never here, so it’s okay.”

Taylor tried to picture Darla seeing her boyfriend in that state and wondered if she liked him all stinky and sweaty. “Where’s he go?”

Andrew snorted. “Oh, he’s all about his friends, and they’ve got cars, so they’re always going somewhere. And with his parents gone, he’s all about just cruising. He’s gross and coarse in talking about people and even his girlfriend. These guys aren’t real gentlemen. Well, I think I would stay in a hotel if he wasn't my cousin.”

“Sounds kinda gross.”

Taylor wondered if she should share her fantasies with Andrew about them rolling around on top of the covers. She kept that to herself since they’d have to discuss naked bodies.

Andrew laughed. “But, they have plans to take everybody to the beach this weekend. And Bradley said that would include us, too. Would you go with me if they got the van and the driver? Bradley said we could tag along.”

“Uh. Well…. Andrew, do you really want to see me at the beach?”

“What’s wrong? Don’t you want to go with me? I thought you’d get excited.”

“Oh, Andrew, sure. The idea of going anywhere with you sounds great. But I have this problem.”

“What’s wrong?”

Taylor momentarily flashed on having to wear a bathing suit on Thursday to Julie’s pool. She wondered how Tiffany and the others would act around her when she appeared wearing a girl’s bathing suit. After all, they’d known Taylor for a long time. But, while Taylor dressed up all-girl occasionally in elementary school and sometimes wore her Halloween costumes when they were in Middle School, she’d never appeared full-time as female. Nor did she ever appear wearing next to nothing.

And now that she was living an all-female life, she would have to face what all the time really meant. It was a wonderful feeling to finally be free of all the weight holding her down, but she was nervous about everything, too. She felt like she was floating all the time. But, Taylor wondered if being female with boy parts, especially in a very revealing bathing suit that would get wet, would work out. All she could imagine was a disaster.

Suddenly, Taylor was dreaming a fantasy. Everyone was under the same magic spell of thinking of Taylor as real until they saw what was between her legs. Then, she envisioned the magic spell cracking and the sky would turn black. Everyone would suddenly see her in the actual light of day as the make-believe world crashed around her. Instead of a cute fifteen-year-old girl, the curtains would be pulled back on her skinny, naked boy body.

Taylor pictured the sounds of laughter and all her friends making faces. No one would be laughing with her but at her. Suddenly, she would be scorned, and her world would collapse. Just picturing all of this happening made Taylor quiver and shake.

She blinked her eyes to get the nightmare out of her head. “Uh, sure. You know I’d go anywhere with you, Andrew. And that would be great. It’s just that being all undressed in a bathing suit, well, I can’t see it working.

“And speaking of the beach, one of the things I have on my list is to go shopping for a swimsuit. I’ve never owned a girl’s bathing suit, which will be a big thing. Remember the girls you met at the mall?”

“Sure, I remember. They like you.”

“No, Andrew. They liked you. Meredith couldn’t stop talking about you.”

“Uh-huh. Well, if they’re your friends, that’s good, right?”

“Yeah. But back to this bathing suit thing. I’m having a tough time about that.”

“Why?”

“Well, you’ve always seen me when I have clothes on. But I have this sad, skinny body that doesn’t measure up. And now, I have to confront that head-on. I need to face who I am and deal with it.

Andrew hesitated. “Uh. I don’t want to sound crude or anything, but can we talk about this some other time? Thinking about you in a bathing suit is starting to get me excited, and well, that’s hard for me to concentrate.”

Taylor winced. “Sure. I hear you. But I don’t think my skinny body will turn anybody on.” She took a deep breath and finally blurted it out. “And then I have the issue of having to tuck myself, so my boy parts stay hidden.”

“Uh, Taylor, you’re overthinking this. I’m sure you’ll be able to figure that out. You will find many suggestions for hiding your boy parts on YouTube. They have just about everything on there.”

“How’d you know that?”

“Well, I told you that my friend is trans. She’s shared that kind of stuff with me. I know she uses surgical tape, and her biggest complaint was to make sure she shaves closely so it doesn’t hurt when the tape comes off.”

Taylor took a deep breath and wiped her eyes. Tears had been forming in her eyes. Between her nightmare and her anxiety, she was ready to cry. She tried to talk, but it came out as a sob. “Andrew, you’re amazing. And here I was, worried about talking with you about all that. Listening to you makes me feel so much better. Maybe it’s not a big deal, and I should watch YouTube. Thanks.”

“Well, Taylor, let’s face it. It’s important to you, and that’s all that counts. I want to be your number-one helper. After all, for a good relationship, we’ve gotta be honest with each other. Let’s make a rule, Taylor. No secrets. I want to know everything you’re thinking about and be the most important person in your life. I know you’re trans, and it’s a big deal for you. And I know every new thing is scary because you’re just coming out. But, you gotta remember that I came out as gay when I was fourteen. The best thing was that I was tall and strong. Anyone who thought about teasing me, well, they had to look me in the face. And it’s tough to say mean things to someone like me. Those trolls had trouble looking up at a big guy who was not smiling. I guess I scared some people into keeping their mouths shut. But I’ve heard it all. And I want to protect you and keep you safe. I don’t want you to think that some of those bad things trolls say are real. I’m here to stand by you.”

Taylor was crying. She was staring at Andrew, and he was saying the most loving and beautiful words she’d ever heard. “oh, thank you. I am falling more in love with you every day.”

“Good bye, Taylor. Just remember you’re the most important person in my life, too.”

Later on, Taylor got back on the computer and went on YouTube. She Googled how to tuck and watched at least four videos from different trans women on what they do. She was most impressed with one product that she could buy online. But, until she could order that product, she went and found her mom.

“Hey, mom. I have a question.”

“Sure, honey. What do you need?”

“Do you have any surgical tape here at home?”

“Sure. I have several rolls in our first aid kit. Do you want some?”

“Uh, yeah.” Taylor was feeling very embarrassed and knew she was bright red. Her face felt hot.

“Science experiment?”

“Uh, yeah. Except I’m the experiment. If I’m going to a pool party, and Andrew’s cousin might be taking everybody to the beach this weekend, well, I’m really self-conscious about my boy parts.”

Taylor saw her mom blush, too.

“Well, sure. And as a doctor, maybe I can help you. As long as you remember that your genitals are going to someday become your female parts if you decide to have sexual reassignment surgery. So, you don’t want to hurt anything down there.”

“What’s that mean, mom?”

“Mutilation. I don’t want you harming yourself by trying to castrate yourself in frustration. I get it, and I’m just here to help.”

Taylor felt tears roll down her face as he tightly squeezed her mom’s neck. “Oh, God. I was so frightened to say anything, but I was talking to Andrew, and he knows a trans girl who uses tape. Andrew recommended that I go to YouTube.

“Did you learn anything?”

“Yeah. There’s this company where I can buy a kit, and until then, I can use medical tape. And that will pretty much cover me up, so nothing shows.”

“You must remember that if you tape your penis and your testicles tightly up to your body, you’ll need to pee once in a while.”

“Yeah. And I need to make sure I don’t have any hairs that would get caught on the tape.”

“Oh, you’ll find the hairs all right. If you miss any, they will let you know. Now, do you want to practice? I can put on my gloves and play doctor.”

“Mom, you are a doctor.”

“Yeah, that, too. Let me get our first aid kit, and you go get a razor and check for hairs. You will have to lose your sense of modesty anyway. With all your doctors, everyone will look between your legs as you go through your life.”

“Ugh. I hate this.”

“Yeah, but it’s just something that a trans woman has to learn to live with whether you decide to stay pre-op for the rest of your life.”

“Why would I want that?”

“I think you must take that question to your trans women on YouTube.”

Taylor nodded. “Right.”

An hour later, Taylor was all taped up and ready to go. She had found a nice outfit that her mom had helped her pick out, and they were headed out to go shopping.

“How are you doing?”

“You mean with the tuck?”

“Yep. With the tuck.”

“Well, it’s a little uncomfortable, but there’s no pain. Everything is kinda numb. I am glad that I went to the bathroom before we started.”

“Just remember that you have tape and scissors in your bag. If you need help reapplying the tape, I can come into the bathroom and help you.”

“Thank you, mom. For everything.”

This is the fourth chapter of the sequel to the novel Taylor, which was published as a Kindle book. All the proceeds from Taylor and Taylor, Too! are for BigCloset. I hope you take the time to read this and tell me what you think. As always, I appreciate constructive criticism. I think it only makes the story better. I am writing this one chapter at a time, so your input is important in making this a better book.

Chapter Four

Four

“Mom, shopping for a bathing suit is weird. How am I supposed to know if it’ll fit if I leave my underwear on?” Taylor was following her mom into the store. It was still new to shop in stores as a girl. Even though they’d shopped several times together this week alone, filling up her closets.

Molly, her mom, smiled. “It’s for sanitary purposes, honey. You keep your cooties in your underpants, and so does anyone else who tries this same suit on.”

“Geez, that’s an incredibly gross thought! We are going to wash it before I wear it, right?” Taylor tried to imagine getting some strange disease from some unclean person trying on the same suit she’d wear. “Hey, I like this one.” She held up a one-piece in shiny blue fabric.”

Her mom grinned and nodded. “Brings out the color in your eyes. Go try it on."

Taylor sighed and went into the dressing room. She took off all her clothes except her padded bra and panty and hung them on hooks. As she pulled it on, it fit okay. It wasn’t too tight, but it squeezed in on her waist and body. She looked in the mirror and gasped. The cut was very high. It barely covered her hips and was cut high in the back. It really reminded her of a Speedo racing suit. And it really made her butt look big.

She turned and studied it. The suit was okay. It obviously showed off her long legs and boyish hips. That didn’t bother her. She tried to imagine it with no padding on top and just her flat chest showing. Taylor imagined going to Julie’s pool and decided it was best not to fake anything. It would be too artificial to wear a padded bra when everyone knew she still had a boy’s body. Taylor wondered how long it would be until the estrogen would change that. And, of course, it was up to the doctor when she could start any medication. As she stared at her body, she thought about having to tuck. Hopefully, the tucking kits they’d ordered on Amazon might arrive in time for the Thursday pool afternoon. The product was billed as waterproof.

She walked out with a smile on her face. She looked at her mother. “What do you think?”

Molly looked her over carefully. “I like it. The material gives you a very sleek shape. I like the way you look in it. Let’s buy it. Do you want to try another one?”

Taylor sighed and rolled her eyes. “Not really. All of this is stressing me out. I’m right on the point of hyperventilating or crying.”

Molly grabbed Taylor’s arm to hold her up and carefully examine her pale face. She carefully sat her down on the seat inside the dressing room. “Okay, that’s fine, but I’m going to buy you a second suit, a backup suit. Humor me.”

Taylor was trying to catch her breath and breath normally. “Mom, I think this whole suit is pushing my brain to the edge of reality. I think it’s all about coming face-to-face with my genitals all at once. I can’t help but think about them. And I’m being reminded that I live in a boy’s body, and I’ve got stuff between my legs that no fifteen-year-old girl should have. It’s okay when everything is hidden behind layers of clothing, but this suit is thin, body-hugging, and scary. I mean, it looks good. I’m not sad about my looks, but it’s really hitting me hard now. I think this is just one of those things that I have to get used to.”

Taylor tried to smile. She hoped this suit would work on both occasions if her mom and dad said she could go down to the beach for the whole day with her sister, friends, and Andrew. She was still waiting to hear from Emma to see if the entire thing was a go. All she could think about is being with her boyfriend for a whole day. It would be heaven.

Molly smiled and held up a hanger. “Okay, dear daughter. Here’s the suit I like and think will look good on you. See, it’s cut like the one you picked, except it’s got some pretty colors in the design.”

Taylor looked at it and shrugged. She was still having trouble catching her breath. She wanted to put her clothes back on and stop looking at her almost naked body. Her mom interrupted her thoughts.

“So, honey. It’s time to go. Let’s pay for these two things and head to the food court. You need something cold to drink, and I want to see if Marg is still working over at the modeling kiosk.

Taylor started feeling better as soon as she got her clothes back on. Looking in the dressing room mirror, she fluffed out her hair then smoothed it into place. She was breathing normally as they waited while her mom’s card was processed.

As the woman handed Molly her credit card, she smiled. “Boy, you can really see the resemblance between the two of you. Both of you are pretty enough to be models.”

Taylor smiled and nodded. She wasn’t used to hearing compliments from complete strangers and it made her feel naked or transparent or something weird. As much as she wanted to feel confident about carrying herself around as a young woman, it was still daunting.

Once outside the store, the two of them headed to a busy, noisy food court. They went over to the juice kiosk and Taylor got a fruit and vegetable smoothie. As she tried to take sips instead of gulps, Taylor thought about it. She went and got a water from a dispenser. As she gulped it down, the cold water helped her to calm down. After her brain was cool and she was relaxed, she could calmly sip her drink.

As she was sipping her smoothie, Taylor watched her mom head across the food court. She stood, grabbed up her bag from the store and followed her mom. She caught up to her on the other side of the Food Court, where the Barbizon displays were set up. And she smiled when she saw Marg greeting her mom.

Sure enough, Marg had a big hug for her mother. Taylor just hung back and let the two of them reminisce. Finally, after about five minutes, Marg turned and smiled at her. “Hi, Taylor. It’s good to see you standing side by side with your mom. It is really amazing how much you look like Molly. We’re going to have so much fun together.”

Taylor had just heard the same observation from a saleswoman who didn’t know she was trans. In a way, these comments were very reassuring.

Her mom turned to her. “Want to give it a try? Maybe for a couple of months before you go back to school? I don’t want to complicate the fall with too much on your plate.”

Taylor shrugged. “Really?” She was still having trouble processing the idea that a trans girl could be a model. She turned to Marg. “Do you think being trans will work out with modeling?”

Marg laughed. “There are so many LGBTQ people in our community that you will feel very comfortable. I think you’ll enjoy it, and it will give you some confidence, too.”

Molly smiled. “I agree with Marg. You’d benefit from having other people see you dressing in fashion shots. You will just have to realize that you are a pretty teenager. And it’s only going to get you more comfortable in girl mode. I don’t think you need to wait until you take medications to feel comfortable just being who you are. Maybe it will even help you with preparing to return to school in the fall, too.”

Taylor frowned at the thought of facing a new school full of strange kids. She knew she’d be on display while everyone had to see the tranny. She was so grateful that TV shows were featuring trans teens as weekly cast members so that she wouldn’t be just a freak. She looked straight at both of them. “Okay, we can try it. But we have to agree that this is a trial period. I can walk away from any commitment in a month if it doesn't work out.”

Marg frowned. “Okay. But, if you want my opinion, that might be too soon. Let’s wait to give this whole commitment thing an end date. Let’s just play it by ear. If you don’t like it, just come to me, and we’ll talk. I’m going to be more than your agent. Ask your mom. I listened a lot to her, and we learned together.”

Taylor’s mom smiled. “Marg was my first coach on how to face the real world. I was like you - young, shy, and really insecure. Marg was my momma bear and did a great job of protecting me. That’s why I have full confidence in what she says and does. She really has your best interest at heart. She knows that a happy worker is a good worker.”

Taylor nodded. “Do I get paid?”

Marg laughed. “You’re going to get paid a lot for a fifteen-year-old woman. And I’ll ensure you’ll get one hundred percent of your wages when we start. I collect twenty-five percent of your income when you get into the groove.”

Taylor looked surprised at Marg taking all of that money. She made a face.

Her mom, Molly, grabbed her arm. “Marg earns it. She does a lot for her piece of the pie. Without an agent, you really won’t get job offers. Marg made a lot of money for me. You know, modeling paid for college and medical school.”

Marg laughed and looked at Taylor. “Your mom deserted me. She would have made much more money modeling as a career than her medical practice earns. But I get it. We have to do what we want to do. And by the way, you’ll earn thousands of dollars this summer if you want to work every day. I’ve got two catalog shoots for JC Penny. And that doesn’t count weekend runway shows. Once we get you set up, you’ll be turning down work. Believe me; you will make a lot of money.”

Taylor looked pained. “I don’t want to work too much. I have a boyfriend.”

Marg laughed. “Oh, I understand. But you’re only ninety minutes from Philly and three hours from New York. That’s where we are going to concentrate on our business with you. I’m setting aside my time to be your personal mentor. Because I love your mom so much.”

Molly laughed. “Because you made so much money off of me.”

“That too, honey. But, we could have been millionaires if you’d stuck with me.”

“Millions?” Taylor was dumbfounded.

“Sure, honey. Your mom was always booked for all the big runway shows. We were in Paris, Rome, and New York every year. She was in high demand.”

Taylor tried to imagine traveling. She turned to her mom. “Will I need ID, a passport? What will I have to do?”

Her mom shook her head. “Those documents will be coming soon. Once you have satisfied a few doctors, the lawyers will follow. Getting an F on your ID is going to be a simple task. I don’t know if you’ll need a passport this summer, but we will apply. And I will make sure mine is up to date, too.”

Taylor took a deep breath and turned back to Marg. She tried on a smile. “Sure, let’s give it a try. As long as no one expects me to do anything I’m uncomfortable with, I’ll be fine.”

Marg smiled. “Welcome aboard, young lady. You’ll look back on this day and your decision with a smile. I’m going to become your favorite person.”

Taylor really wondered what was happening. She’d just bought a bathing suit that fits like a glove and showed all her body covered by a thin layer of spandex. She didn’t look bad. She did feel honest about how she looked. Just as long as the tape stayed in place between her legs.

And now, she just committed to becoming a clothing model where she’d be examined by thousands of people. She wondered what they would see and how they’d react. The worst thing would be people would find out that she’s trans and laugh at her.

While driving home from the mall, Taylor looked at her mom. “Mom, everything is traveling at light speed. Yeah, this afternoon really pushes me out of my shell pretty quickly. A few weeks ago, girl stuff was a dream or a glimmer of hope. And now, in my mind, there’s no turning back. Well, truthfully, I never want to turn back.”

Molly smiled and grabbed her younger daughter’s hand. “Just remember, when the going gets tough, it’s simply challenging your determination to see this through. I know that you’ll get where you want to go and everything is going to be all right. Let’s just pretend that I’ll be your personal genie in the bottle granting your every wish.”

“Oh, mom. I just want everything to match up. I want to be as female outside as I am inside. I want to close my eyes and see myself smiling because I’m whole.”

“Honey, you’ll learn that female is more of a state of mind than what you see in the mirror. I have looked in the mirror all the time, and well, let’s face it. I’m not perfect. But all those flaws make me human, too. My boobs are small, and my butt is flat. I still have a boyish figure after giving birth to you and your sister. But, inside, I love myself because I can still help the two of you and all the people I doctor daily. And well, the modeling business didn’t hire me just to be a coat hangar. I modeled with an attitude and a lot of personalities. When I wore designer clothes, I became the image the designer wanted. I loved playing a part, and that’s what got me more and more offers.”

“Oh, mom. But you were born a female. You could just use your looks as your base. You didn’t have to worry about being revealed. I just don’t have a girl’s body! I lack everything!”

“Well, honey. I don’t want to start with body shaming. Some women never grow breasts; some have mastectomies and scars but no breasts. Some women are heavy, and others can’t seem to put on any weight even when they try. And none of those women should feel bad about themselves.”

Taylor listened carefully and thought about what her mom was saying. “You are so right, and I was really starting to compare myself to Julie or Meredith. And, well, I guess that’s such an insecure girl thing to do. I’m trying hard to see a different perspective.”

“Honey, you have beautiful hair and a cute face. Your body is in proportion, and you look good. Obviously, Andrew saw something that he liked.”

Just the mention of Andrew’s name made her feel warm inside. All she could think about on the ride home was calling him up. When they got home, Taylor went to her room and texted Andrew to set up a FaceTime call. After she sent the text, she sought out her mom.

“Hey, mom. I have this thing to talk to you about. Andrew has a bunch of books to read for his summer reading requirement. Would it be all right with you and dad if he could come over here and do his reading homework with me?

“And what are you going to do when Andrew is reading?”

“Oh, I’ll read, too. I still have a pile of books that you bought me. I promise that we’ll be good.”

“I trust you, Taylor. And I like Andrew a lot. I don’t have a problem with the two of you reading together. But there have to be a few ground rules. Someone has to be here in the house with you. You must read in public parts of the house, and if you go outside, you must stay in the yard.”

She laughed at her mom’s new rules. She smiled as she pretended to be her mom. “Stay, Taylor, stay. Be a good girl. Woof, woof.”

Molly laughed but was very serious. “Ha, ha. Funny. But I want you to keep your clothes on, and I want to observe you when I want. Your father works enough from home that he’ll be in on it, too. I’m going to have him set a timer and come looking for you.”

“Hmm. That doesn’t sound like trust to me.”

“Well, think about it. Just a couple of months ago, you were fourteen, and your new boyfriend is already sixteen. A couple of months ago, you weren’t head over heels in love, either. I have eyes and see just how much you adore him. This infatuation is wonderful, and I’m happy for you. But you are fifteen, and I don’t want you trying to overdo it with Andrew. Kissing is fine, but keeping your clothes on is more important. I don’t want you growing up too fast.”

“Oh, I get it. I understand your point of view and honestly don’t want to do anything that would take away your trust in me. I owe you everything and want to keep that going on. But, well, I love being in his arms, and when he squeezes me tightly, well, it’s pretty awesome. I kinda lose my mind.”

Molly wrapped her arms around her, then squeezed her daughter tightly. “I understand just how overwhelming this has become. But I’m here to ensure that you keep your head and not do anything that might make you regret your actions.”

Taylor smiled. “Uh-huh. But, mom. You offered to be a genie from a bottle to help me come along. You need to know that it’s not a genie who is granting me the magic girl wish. I have a fairy godmother appearing in my dreams while sleeping. And sometimes, she even shows up when I’m awake. What do you think? Am I living in a dream?”

Molly realized that Taylor was telling her the truth. “How long have you had a fairy godmother?”

“A long time. I first talked with her when dad and I built the doll house years ago.”

This is the fifth chapter of the sequel to the novel Taylor, which was published as a Kindle book. All the proceeds from Taylor and Taylor, Too! are for BigCloset. I hope you take the time to read this and tell me what you think. As always, I appreciate constructive criticism. I think it only makes the story better. I am writing this one chapter at a time, so your input is important in making this a better book.

Chapter Five

Chapter Five

Molly looked carefully at her daughter. “Okay, let me get this straight. You can see a fairy godmother even when you’re awake?”

Taylor nodded. “Yep. I can ask her questions and she gives me answers.”

“What do you ask her?”

“The last time I asked her why Andrew couldn’t see her when she was floating right there in front of us. Oh, yeah. Did I tell you that she floats off the ground. And I can see through her, you know, transparent. So am I crazy?”

“I don’t know, honey. You’ve always had a pretty vibrant imagination. But I believe that you create those things to help you cross a bridge mentally. I think your imagination helped you cope with things.”

“Okay. I can see that. But why would I see her? Do I really need her?”

Molly smiled. “Okay, daughter. I think that’s perfectly normal. You had a favorite teddy bear that you carried around with you when you were a toddler. And you talked to him.”

“Right, Besty! Is he still around somewhere?”

“He is. I never wanted to throw him away. So I washed him several times, then soaked Besty in disinfectant for twenty-four hours. Afterward, I took him to Mrs. Jenn to have him stitched up and repaired. He’s up in a box in the attic. Do you want him back?”

Taylor thought about it. “Yes. I think it would be special to have him back again with me. But, since he’s a boy bear, can you suspend the ‘no boys upstairs’ rule for him?”

Molly laughed. “I suppose so. But the two of you shouldn’t be fooling around. I hope you can be trusted with a stuffed bear and don’t have your fairy godmother making him real!”

“Oh, wouldn’t that be so cool to have a little stuffed animal come alive and talk and have a thinking brain? Kinda like Paddington, right?”

Molly shook her head. “Well, if you are going to be okay by yourself, how about if I drop you off and run into the hospital? I need to make rounds and maybe see a few patients in the office. But that would mean you’d have to help with dinner.”

“Sure. What are we having?”

“I left out some chicken and vegetables. You can make a sheet pan bake if you want. You’ve helped me with that before.”

“Sure. What veggies?”

“Onions, carrots, black radishes, potatoes, and turnips.”

“Sounds good. Chicken thighs?”

“Right.”

“Okay. No problem. What time do you want dinner?”

Molly thought for a minute. “Okay. How’s seven?”

“Sure. Do we have enough to feed Andrew, too?”

“No problem. Invite him over at five o’clock and he can be your assistant. You can impress him with your culinary skills. That way, he’ll know that his future wife will be a good little homemaker.”

“Hah! His good little wife is going to be a successful doctor like her mom. But who knows? Maybe modeling will pay my way through college and medical school, too.”

“Well, your dad and I have worked hard to afford you and your sister’s college tuition. Bu if you want to pay your own way, it just means more money for the two of us.”

“Right, mom. Like you don’t have everything you need and want already. I don’t think you have a selfish bone in your body!”

“Well, it would be fun to take everyone on a winter vacation to the tropics next year. Or a cruise somewhere like the Greek Isles.”

“Well, no one would argue with that.”

“Good. So, I’ll drop you off, and you’ll have the afternoon free. I’ll text your dad that you’re alone and making dinner for us. I will also tell him we have a plus one with Andrew.”

“Thank you, mom, for everything.”

Taylor was busy cutting up vegetables when the phone rang. It was a number she didn’t recognize, so she let it go through to voice mail.”

She listened to the message. “Hey, Taylor. Marg here. I’ve already lined up two catalog jobs for you a week apart. For a rookie, catalog shoots pay fifty dollars an hour, so you’ll collect four hundred per day for your four days.

“And to ease your worries, I’ll be there the whole time. And in addition, you’ll get to keep the outfits. It’s their Winter-Spring catalog, and you’ll be posing with several other models. I’m just representing you, so I’ll be your chaperone, too. Two days next week and the following week. Let me know now if you’re up for it.”

After Taylor listened to the messages, she texted Marg. She typed, ‘Sure.’

Taking a deep breath, Taylor sat down and stared out the kitchen window. She had a good view of the barn and watched the birds flitting in and out of the plants growing in her mom’s flower garden.

She found herself speaking aloud to the half-sheet tray she’d covered with tin foil, then olive oil. ‘Am I going too fast? Am I racing into this new world of coming out like I’m crazy?’ She found herself gasping for air.

When the oven read 350º, she slid the chicken in and let it cook for twenty minutes. While she was waiting, she peeled and cut up the vegetables. She let them soak in cold water while she waited. When the chicken was partially done and giving up it’s juices, she added the vegetables and stirred everything around on the tray.

While she was standing there, her phone buzzed a message. It was Marg. Her text simply said, ‘Tuesday and Wednesday. I’ll pick you up at eight am and have you home for dinner!’

Taylor looked at her reflection in the hall mirror. She felt the tears start running down her face. She wasn’t sure if it was happiness or fear that was causing her to cry. Whatever it was, the emotions were overwhelming her. She wanted to curl up under the covers and sob but knew that dinner would surely burn if she walked away.

She’d clenched her fists and her nails were making creases in her flesh. In a way, the pain made her feel better.

She set the alarm on her phone to remind her to check the oven. Then she called Andrew.

Taylor was feeling pretty needy when he answered the phone. “Hey, you have time to talk with me?”

Andrew could hear the quiver in her voice and immediately wanted to reassure her. “Taylor, I always have time for you. Remember, I’m in love with you.”

Hearing those words, she smiled. “You’ve got a seven o’clock dinner invite for tonight if you want. I’m making chicken and vegetables. Please say yes. I really want to see you. Oh, yeah, brown rice, too.”

“Yes, yes, yes. I already have an appetite for you, but chicken is one of my favorites.”

Taylor sighed. She loved listening to his voice but knew she was in a self-destructive mood. She wanted to scream. “Hey, Andrew. Can I cry on your shoulder for a minute?”

“Always. What’s wrong?”

“Well, I’m scared. All this girl stuff is overwhelming. It was under control when it was just my imagination or when we were together. But, now it’s becoming so public. I spent an hour today buying a one-piece suit and looking at myself wrapped in spandex.”

She took a deep breath.

“And I committed myself to modeling for Marg like my mom did. I just heard from her, and I’m doing a catalog shoot next week for J.C.Penny. And I’m going to a pool party at this girl’s house from school on Thursday and still hoping to go with you to the beach on Saturday. I feel like I’ve jumped on a high speed bullet train.”

“Well, babe. The beach thing’s all set. We’re renting a driver and a fifteen-passenger van to take us down to Rehoboth. I’ve never been there, but my cousin says it’s great.”

“Oh, I’ve been there a million times. Lots to eat and stuff to do. Not real private where I could take a walk with you and make out. But it will work. And, oh yeah. My mom said you can start coming over with your books, and we can read together. I just need to behave.”

“Behave? We behave. What’s your new swimsuit like?”

“One is kinda blue, and the other is ocean colors, greens, and blues. And I don’t think behaving is what we did on Saturday night!”

“Are you upset about that?”

“No. I loved it! It’s just that I couldn’t do that with my parents around.”

“Sure. I don’t want them to hate me ‘cause I got you pregnant. But, I’d do the honorable thing. You must have looked pretty in your suit.”

“Well, not really. More like a skinny twelve-year-old. I’ve decided not to wear any pads when I go to my friend’s house on Thursday. They’ve known me since kindergarten and I’ve very trans to them. For Saturday, I’ll pad up for you. I did take your advice and went to YouTube to learn how to tuck. I even sent for this tucking kit that I hope comes for Thursday.”

Andrew sighed. “In my mind, you’re a pretty girl. That’s all. I mean, when we talk, you’re my girlfriend.”

“You’ve never thought of me as a mental case?”

“Nope.”

“God. Well, I think you must be the only one. I think I’m crazy. I mean, I just told my mom about my fairy godmother, who I’d been talking to for years. And the fact that I just went ahead and dressed up like a girl since I was five cause I wanted to. I never knew I was trans.”

“I know that. But that doesn’t make you crazy.”

“Seriously? And now, I’ve living full-time and going to go to a pool to hang around with my girlfriends, and what if they ask about my genitals? And even if I go with you to the beach, your cousin will see that you’re dating a very skinny girl who is built like a boy. I love you too much to embarrass you!”

“Taylor, you are being silly. Fifteen-year-old girls are skinny and underdeveloped. That’s pretty much the way it is. And my cousin and his friends are really not checking you out when they’ve got your sister and her friends all boob-a-licious in their bikinis. They’re going to be getting hard-ons over their dates. And there’s no rule that we have to hang out with them. We can find a spot all to ourselves.”

Taylor took a deep breath. “Oh, my God, Andrew. Just talking to you makes me feel better. I was definitely hyperventilating when I was taking off my clothes and trying on bathing suits.”

“How’d you look in your first swimsuit? Did it make you feel good?”

“Actually, if you think of me as twelve, I looked very cute. Speaking of being little, my mom’s going to find my old teddy bear that I dragged around as a toddler. He’s making a reappearance to go on my pillow.”

“Should I worry that you’re going to think about him more than me? What’s his name?”

“Besty, ‘cause he was my best friend. I slept with him and everything.”

“I’m definitely jealous. He gets to sleep with you and see you in your nightgown.”

She could hear Andrew chuckle. Taylor started to pout. “Don’t you laugh at me, you meanie. I’m going to get my fairy godmother to make Besty come alive, and then he’ll eat your face!”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I apologize for laughing. Please don’t have your fairy godmother put a curse on me.”

“We did talk about you.”

“Who?”

“Me and my fairy godmother. I asked her why I could see and talk to you and how come you couldn’t.”

“When was this?”

“Back when I took you on a tour of the property. When we were out in the field, we talked, and I asked her why you couldn’t see and hear her. I think that’s when I realized it was all in my head. Of course, everything around me could be in my head, and I’m in a coma somewhere on life support.”

Andrew laughed. “Hearing that coma stuff, I have to admit you are sounding a little bit crazy.”

“Andrew, that’s the nicest, most honest thing anyone has ever said to me. And talking to you is so great. You’ve totally taken my mind off my own self-doubts. I’m going to wear an oversized tee shirt over my suit.”

“See. I’m glad you’re feeling better. Now, what time is dinner?”

“Dinner’s at seven, but you can come help and keep me company before that. How about five?”

“Perfect. I’m going to hang up so I can shower and make myself perfect for my wonderful girlfriend, who I love, admire, adore, and want to be with me forever.”

After they hung up, Taylor knew she had time to get a quick shower, too. She couldn’t wait to wash off after trying on clothes. All she could think about was the danger of getting cooties.

She dashed upstairs, dropped her clothes, and hopped into the shower. As the temperature grew hotter, she washed her hair with cream rinse so it wouldn’t dry out, then exfoliated her face gently and then vigorously all over her body. Once she was done cleaning herself carefully with a body wash, she hopped out and patted herself dry.

She was happy to know that her hair would fall into place after she brushed it out. Then, she picked out casual clothes with Andrew in mind. A quick bit of mascara and some lip stain, and she was headed back downstairs.

She could smell the chicken and vegetables roasting as she searched for the brown rice.

When the dish was cooked, she took it out and let it sit. She’d drain the fat and make a light gravy when she reheated it. She and Emma had been schooled in the kitchen by both her mom and dad. They’d always shared household duties equally.

Taylor was surprised when she found out a lot of her friend’s dads didn’t help out at home. Her dad ran the household while her mom was in medical school, and ever since then, they’d happily shared all the household duties, including raising her and her sister. As she thought about it, she smiled. She was so lucky to have two wonderful, caring parents who readily accepted her trans life without ever questioning her. They made her feel loved and safe.

Her dad arrived at the same time that Andrew’s Uber pulled up. She watched from the window as the two men in her life came in together. She was so proud that her dad welcomed her boyfriend so readily. And Andrew seemed like he was enjoying her dad, too.

She met them in the living room. “Hey, guys. What’s up?”

Her dad picked her up and swung her around, and gave her a hug. He whispered in her ear. “I really like your boyfriend, honey. You’ve got good taste.”

Andrew had brought flowers. He smiled as he handed her a beautiful arrangement. “Since you’re making me dinner tonight, I brought flowers for the chef.”

Taylor was blushing as she kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you. They're beautiful. Let me find a vase and put them in water.” She walked off seriously, wondering if she really was in a coma and dreaming this whole thing.

This is the sixth chapter of the sequel to the novel Taylor, which was published as a Kindle book. All the proceeds from Taylor and Taylor, Too! are for BigCloset. I hope you take the time to read this and tell me what you think. As always, I appreciate constructive criticism. I think it only makes the story better. I am writing this one chapter at a time, so your input is important in making this a better book.

Chapter Six

“Now, honey, remember, if anything starts to go south or you just want to bail, you can text your dad or me. We can be your rescue service. It’s just like taking medicine; stay ahead of the pain. Don’t wait until everything turns to ….”

“Mom, you were about to say shit, weren’t you?”

“Well, maybe. I’m anxious about this. It’s like the first day of school for you, and I want this to be a great experience.”

“Mom, it’s okay. I’m sorry to break the news to you that my life won’t simply be a bed of roses. I mean, I am choosing to head over the waterfalls in a leaky canoe. I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

“Hmm, Taylor. That’s not a real positive way to look down the road.”

“Mom, I agree. Everything is going so well, but I’ve got to remember that I have to surmount any challenges.”

“Big words, little girl. I like that surmount any challenges. Where’d you get that from?”

“I’ve been watching some YouTube videos and have started watching videos. Some people post weekly or monthly videos about themselves and their lives. And some are all grown up. Well, no one is my age. No, let me correct that. Some girls are my age, but they all have one thing in common. They seem to be airheads. They see their high school years as mimicking ditzy blondes. So, it’s easier to watch women who are transitioning and older. Like eighteen to maybe twenty-five. They seem to have to climb higher mountains. College, work, and all that stuff seems harder for transitioning women.”

“Okay. I wouldn’t discount those teen girls. But, giving yourself a wide range of women to listen to is better.”

“Mom, some women pay for their transition by working in the porn industry. It’s weird, but that attracts guys who pay them money.”

“Well, I don’t know much about it. This may be something you can talk to your doctor about. Even though you sound confident, I have to remind myself that you just turned fifteen. You’re still young.”

“Well, I’m not….well, you know. I know about sex, and well, I masturbate.”

“Taylor, that’s perfectly normal. And having sexual fantasies is also perfectly normal. As long as you and Andrew keep yourselves together. I just don’t want you experimenting with sex quite yet. And Emma isn’t a good example. I know she and the musketeers all worked on the boyfriend thing back when they were fifteen, and well, I know your sister is sexually active.”

“You know that?”

“Sure. I was young, too.”

“Well, wouldn’t that be a double standard for me? You’re saying that Emma is sexually active, and you know that she and her friends talk about it and test things out. But, you’re telling me not to?”

Taylor watched her mom throw up her hands and pull over. “Okay, you have a good point there. But I’m not sure what to say. I don’t think you should be in a hurry to lose your virginity. Nor do I think that you and Andrew should take your clothes off. I understand that you have needs, but….”

“But, what?”

“I love you, Taylor. I don’t want to see you get hurt.”

“Mom, I have to make my own breaks. I’m confident about myself, or I wouldn’t have agreed to model for Marg. It’s like learning to rollerblade or ice skate. You know you’ll fall down a few times until you learn. I just have to grit my teeth and tough it out.”

“I hope you talk to your doctor about this. I’m just too emotionally involved to talk to you clinically.”

“Yeah. I see that, watching your face turn red. But relax. Andrew and I have kissed and worked hard to keep our clothes on. Emma referred to our date and said that we were dry-humping. She told me Andrew was the terrier who lives down the street, and I was the couch he likes to hump.”

Taylor watched her mom turn deeper shades of red than she could ever imagine. “Uh, mom. Are you stroking out?”

“No, Taylor. I’m just trying to imagine my daughter's orgasm with a boy. Well, I guess I need to take a deep breath, too.”

“It’s okay, mom. That’s only happened once, and while I dream about doing many things with Andrew, that's it. But everything is going well. Believe me.”

She watched her mom take deep breaths. “Okay. Let’s revisit this topic later. I need to collect my thoughts. But let’s talk about today. Well, just text me if you need to bail. Just send me anything, and I’ll call you back with some made-up excuse that you can politely get out of there with dignity. And sunscreen. Did you remember to bring a towel?”

“Mom, it’s okay. Everything is packed away in my bag.” Taylor held up the big tote that Emma had lent her. “I even have a change of clothes and another one of those tuck things. I’m going to be okay. And yes, I will text when I’m ready to exit. But it’s going to be a graceful exit. I’m not bailing on anything anymore. I’m made of rock, not glass.”

All Molly could do was let out a deep sigh and look at her young daughter. “Maybe we can just keep you home until you turn twenty-one. Locked up, safe, and sound. You know, that up in the turret. Kinda like a Disney classic.”

When they arrived at Julie’s house, Taylor leaned over and kissed her mom. Then, she grabbed the big bag from the back seat and hoisted it over her shoulder. She was wearing Andrew’s high school hoodie. That alone made her feel good. It was almost like having his spirit close to her.

She waved by and walked up Julie’s driveway. She could hear voices coming from behind the house and walked on the slate path until she arrived at the gate. She waved at Julie as she let herself in. But, suddenly, she felt this run of cold sweep over her. Well, actually, it was inside her. Her first instinct was to turn and head back down the driveway. This wasn’t just going to be the three of them! Julie was having a party!

She saw older boys and girls lounging around the pool. They were all strangers, and she guessed they would be the people she’d meet when she started high school. This whole thing was going to be much more complicated than she anticipated. She really was stepping into a big unknown. Taylor thought it would just be the three of them hanging out and talking. But, wrong. It was a party, a real party. And there were boys, kinda looking like high school football types.

So, instead of just turning on her heel and walking back down the driveway, she took a deep breath and tried to smile her biggest smile. She pushed the gate open and walked into the backyard. She was so busy looking for Julie and Meredith that she didn’t see the dog run straight at her and leap up onto her. Taylor instinctively grabbed the dog’s front paws to keep her balance and winced inside as the dog’s head went straight into her crotch.

Shock, surprise, and a real bolt of pain woke her up completely. She started to remember that Julie had a boxer, and she met him head-on. And now, as the pain, shock, and surprise faded, she wondered what had happened to her tape. She couldn’t just grab herself and feel but looked down and breathed a sigh of relief. Everything had survived the wild dog attack. She grinned through the pain.

This whole taping business worked but added a certain amount of discomfort down there because everything was squished back together between her legs. It was okay, but the dog’s solid paws and head surprised her, and it stung, too.

She refused to look weak and just held onto the dog’s paws. After Taylor got a deep breath, she let him go but remained on guard for another attack. But, this time, the dog looked up at her, jumped straight up, and licked her on the nose. Another complete surprise. Their dog had never leaped straight up that high. Boxers were different than retrievers.

She heard Julie yell out the dog’s name, and it scampered away toward her. Taylor saw that Julie was walking towards her. She breathed a small sigh and cheered inwardly. She’d survived the first attack. In her mind, she was the warrior Princess entering the battlefield. She passed the first hurdle by defeating the hounds of hell.

She and Julie hugged. “Hey, I’m so glad you could come. But you’ve got to forgive me. This was all a surprise. This wasn’t supposed to be a pool party. When my mom saw everyone coming into the backyard, she had a fit. I watched her clean out all of her snack shelves. She sent my dad to the Wawa to get subs, chips, and more sodas. It’s crazy!”

Taylor was listening with one ear and watching all these strangers playing around the pool. It looked like the guys were doing cannonballs and seeing who could make the biggest splash.

“Meredith’s older sister heard about our get-together and invited some of her friends to come along, too. They don’t know anything about you or your history, so you can do and say what you want. Meredith’s sister Cami is okay but can be a bit bitchy at times. She’s got her boyfriend here, so hopefully, she’ll be pretty distracted.”

Julie grabbed her bag out of her hands and tossed it over by the chair where Meredith was watching them. “C’mon. I’ll introduce you to everybody. Oh, and by the way, that has got to be your boyfriend’s hoodie, right? He’s so handsome and preppy. I’m sure his parents are shelling out big bucks for his school. We heard that they are millionaires. But, hey, if you aren’t rich, you can still marry him for the money, right?”

Taylor laughed. “Yeah. His mom and dad are upset that he got me pregnant on our first date. But, he promised to make me an honest woman and marry me.” Taylor watched Julie’s face turn from horror to glee when she realized that Taylor could take a joke.

“Good for you, girl. And I want to be a bride’s maid, right?”

“Of course. I want to have a big wedding and wear white.” Taylor knew the sweatshirt was too big, but it smelled like Andrew, and she loved hiding inside it.

As Julie led her over to Meredith, another girl stepped in front of her.

She was an older version of Meredith, with blonde streaks and much more makeup. She popped her gum, then cracked it right in Taylor’s face. All Taylor could smell was that artificial watermelon smell. “Hey, Taylor. I’m Cami. I’ve heard a lot about you from my little sister. She told me you’re becoming a girl, transitioning, and everything. I was shocked when I heard that. I honestly don’t know why anybody would give up his pecker and nuts. But, looking at you, I can see that you’re a cute little thing already looking beautiful. I even heard you had a rich boyfriend, too.”

Taylor had a chance to study Cami as she talked. She was quite pretty and seemed like she knew everything. But Taylor also sensed that she had claws, too. She would not be the one to talk to about sex, even though it was obvious that she knew a lot. She wondered how far the girls in her class had gone with boys. She realized she was still thinking about sex after talking to her mom. Which, in hindsight, was pretty funny.

Cami was still talking like she owned the place. But Taylor figured out that she liked to be the queen, maybe an evil queen.

“Well, circulate yourself into this cocktail party, but keep your hands off, my man. I don’t know if he has a thing for fairies, but let’s not find out.” Cami grinned and strutted away.

Taylor just stood there, trying her best to smile and not panic. She realized that the dog hitting her crotch was much better than this girl Cami giving her the one-two punch. With that thought, she grinned and almost laughed out loud. She’d already been called a fairy and wished to cut her genitals off. She shivered involuntarily.

Taylor was now sure that everyone in the backyard already knew her story. She sighed. No secrets. This was going to be a practice test run of starting school in the fall. She imagined she’d fall down a few times but would recover. After all, this may be a good thing, and she’d be more equipped when September arrived. She took a deep breath and pulled off her hoodie, and grabbed her towel from her bag.

She tossed the towel around her shoulders and strutted to the chair where Meredith was sitting. Obviously, there’d be no hiding behind any curtains today. She figured she was probably the first freak any of them had ever seen. And they were probably puzzled, too. She didn’t even know what transgender meant a month ago, and now she was becoming an expert. Taylor decided to be the queen of cool and not battle their petty opinions. Everyone was waiting to see her in spandex, so she let them look her over. She walked over to Meredith with her towel in her hand. “Hey.”

Meredith laughed and stood. “Well, I saw that you met Otto, Julie’s boxer. But he’s obviously not the big dog at this party. I saw my bitch sister come over and try to punk you out and make you cry. I’m sorry if Cami overheard my conversation with my mom discussing how you are transgender and are transitioning this summer. Of course, my bitch sister likes to stir up shit. I saw her trying to take you down, and I’m so proud that she didn’t get you crying. And when I saw you smile, then laugh, I cheered. Girl, you are amazing. If you can put up with my sister’s evil, you are all set to handle anything coming your way.”

Taylor hugged her and whispered in Meredith’s ear. “Thanks for the support. I agree that Otto’s ambushing me in the crotch was easier to handle than your sister’s gut punches.”

Meredith laughed. “She can be so evil. I wish I had your sister, Emma. I’m sorry that mine is such a piece of work. Cami usually takes it out on the many guys who follow her around, especially her boyfriend, Teddy.”

While we were talking, two of the guys walked by us. I could hear them talking it up for our benefit. “Dude, I’ve never seen a queer up close like this. Imagine being so gay that you want to go down on some guy. No wonder it’s so fucked up.”

Taylor watched Meredith ball up her fists in anger and suddenly realized she was ready to chase after those guys and confront them. She grabbed Meredith up and hugged her. “Hey, it’s okay. Those guys think it’s cool to pick on the weak ones, but you know, I’ve got to learn to grow a thick skin. I'm sure they aren’t the last knuckleheads who run me into the ground. But, I guess I’ll leave rather than ruin the party.”

Meredith looked angry. “Bull! You will not bail ‘cause my sister and her friends are ignorant. They will stop talking you up if they get no reaction. Maybe they'll lose interest when they realize you’re immune to their barbs.”

“Oh, yeah. I’ve thought about saying something. But I’m going to look even dumber if I even try to acknowledge their stupidity. It’s okay. And you are so right. Running away won’t solve anything.”

The two of them sat down and were soon joined by Julie. They were talking about their summer plans when the guys walked over and surrounded them.

“Hey, I’m Teddy, and we thought we were being rude not introducing ourselves to your friend here. We can't understand how a guy wants to cut off his pecker and grow boobs. We were hoping you would enlighten us.”

Taylor looked at the three of them. “I’m Taylor, and I’m the transgender one. I know this will sound weird, but it’s all about how we are wired. From the day I was born, I knew I was a girl, not a boy. I know it's going to sound crazy to you, but yes. Eventually, I will be taking female hormones and testosterone blockers. After that, I will grow boobs and eventually have my penis turned inside out and made into an artificial vagina.”

One of the other guys turned white as a sheet. “Geez. You’d do all that? That sounds kinda nutty to me. I love my dick!”

Taylor grinned and reached for her phone. “I’ve got the link to the YouTube site where you can see the surgery. Want to sit down here with me? We can watch it together.” She patted on the pool lounge next to her.

The three of them instinctively grabbed their crotches. The third boy shook his head. “That’s crazy!”

Taylor smiled. “See. That’s what makes me different from you. I can’t wait to do all that.”

Teddy shook his head. “You’re just a fuckin’ faggot. You’re all gay and everything. I even heard you have a boyfriend. He’s just another faggot, right?”

Taylor smiled. “I really don’t know. Is there some sort of test you can take to determine if you’re gay? We can look it up together if you want.”
The three guys were shaking their heads as they quickly walked away.

Meredith and Julie looked at the retreating guys and then turned to Taylor. “Hey,” said Meredith. “You’re pretty good at standing your ground. I think you kinda scared them off.”

Julie shook her head. “I think Cami and her two girlfriends are working on a rematch with you. I don’t think this is over yet. But you’ve done an amazing job so far.”

Meredith whispered. “Don’t look, but here they come.”

This is the seventh chapter of the sequel to the novel Taylor, which was published as a Kindle book. All the proceeds from Taylor and Taylor, Too! are for BigCloset. I hope you take the time to read this and tell me what you think. As always, I appreciate constructive criticism. I think it only makes the story better. I am writing this one chapter at a time, so your input is important in making this a better book.

Chapter Seven

Taylor looked wistfully at her two friends. “Hopefully, I will be as well developed as you two are someday.”

Julie looked at Meredith, and they started to smile, then turned to Taylor and whispered. “Uh, really, Taylor. We haven’t developed that fast either. We kinda rely on some help.”

Julie leaned close and pulled down the top part of her bikini a bit revealing that she was wearing a silken insert under her top. “Uh, this gives me more than an A-cup. They round out my little boobies and smooth me out. My nipples are out of control!”

Meredith squeezed Taylor tightly. “We both invested in pads during the school year. It kinda makes me feel more grown up and confident.”

Taylor nodded. “My sister helped me with a pair, too. So when I wear something nice, I look better.”

“Why didn’t you wear them today under your suit?”

“Well, to tell you the truth. I figured I could be honest with you and decided to be myself. Of course, I never knew this was going to be a party.”

Julie stood up. “I’m going to take mine out too. Kinda like solidarity.”

Taylor stood and hugged her. “Oh, no! I love you for being so honest and kind. But it’s more than cool just to have shared with me. I really believe that these boys would tear me apart if I tried to look too real. Let them see the real me, and I think they won’t have too much to worry about. I already threaten their masculinity. They kept glancing at my face and into my eyes. I smiled when they looked between my legs.”

Meredith lightly hit her on the arm. “Okay, since you mentioned it. Where is your stuff? From the waist down, well…You still have all your boy equipment, right?

Taylor giggled. “Yep. But, I bought this neat kit on Amazon that’s a tucking kit that pushes me and pulls me back between my legs so there’s nothing to see. And it’s waterproof.”

Julie laughed. “Well, you’re lucky. My pads aren’t supposed to get wet!”

Meredith smiled. “Well, I think I have a way you can make yourself real to them. I’ve got an idea.”

Taylor watched Meredith stand up. She smiled and then whispered to Julie. They both kept looking back at her. Finally, Julie gave me a thumbs-up. Taylor smiled and watched them both walk up to her.

Julie spoke. “We need a challenge where it’s a level playing field against those guys. Something that you can hold your own or come out on top.”

Meredith nodded. “Sure. If you prove yourself, you might at least win a little respect.”

Taylor shook her head. “I’m not hearing you straight. How am I going to stand my ground against any of them? Have you taken a good look at these guys? They are big and older and full of muscles.”

Julie grinned and pointed over to the corner. “See my dad’s fancy outdoor television over there? It’s got a PlayStation hook-up. I know you’re a great gamer. Steven and Tommy talk about your talent all the time. I’ll bet you could beat any of them.”

Taylor thought about it. “Sure, maybe. I guess, well, I hope. Do you have Slimeball Stompers?”

“Sure. My brother has about every game imaginable. I think he was bragging about getting version seven of Stompers last week. Want to give it a try?”

Taylor nodded and figured that at least trying wouldn’t hurt. “Sure. Even if some guy beats me, I can’t really lose. If I lose, well, they beat the tranny. If I win, well, they’ll want nothing to do with me.”

Meredith pointed to one of the biggest guys. “See if you can play Teddy. He’s the A-Dog in that group. He spends all his time trying to get in my sister’s pants.”

Julie went in the house and brought out the set-up. In one hand, she had controllers, and in the other, she had the set. Taylor watched her set everything up over by the outdoor kitchen that was under a canopy but right on the edge of the pool. As she was coming out, she yelled out, “My brother just bought Version Seven of Slimeball Stompers. Who’s up for a head-to-head challenge?”

The guys immediately gathered around the Playstation. Of course, two of them immediately started playing, never thinking about anyone but themselves. There were lots of cheers and boos until somebody lost. Another guy jumped in, and the guys battled, yelling about how tough they were. Finally, it was obvious that Teddy was the best player. He’d beaten both his friends and was king of his hill.

He stood up and crowed like a rooster holding the controller in his hands. “I am the king of the world. Anyone want to play the best?”

Taylor stood up and raised her hand. Everyone turned to look at her. She realized that she was the skinniest-looking one in the whole group. She quietly said, “I do.”

Teddy looked back at his boys. He pretended to whisper but everyone heard his words. “Jesus. Do you mean I have to beat a faggot? Is that the best challenge they have?”

While all his friends laughed, Taylor walked over and picked up the other controller. She turned to Julie, who was standing by the machine. She nodded, then turned to Teddy.

Teddy blanched. He shook his head. He knew that either way, he couldn’t win. It would be like picking on a toddler if he beat the fairy. And if he lost, well, he certainly couldn’t conceive of that ever happening.

“Sure, fairy boy. But don’t start crying cause you couldn’t win. After all, this is not a faggot game. It’s for real men, not babies.”

Taylor smiled and sat down next to him. She smiled as he scooted over as if she had cooties.

When the game began, everybody’s eyes were on the big screen. Taylor had an army truck with a turret to shoot cannon shots and two machine guns. Teddy had the same vehicle and immediately dialed up black as his truck’s color. Taylor smiled and chose pink.

Teddy was still talking, but he directed everything away from her.“Jesus, this queer is just so gay.”

The Slimeballs were ugly, vicious-looking animals, almost like a cross between an elephant and a bear. They rushed directly at each of their trucks and used their large paws covered with claws and spit out sprays of acid as they attacked.

Taylor could play the game with her eyes closed. She knew to keep her distance and evade their direct attacks. Instead, she let her guns do the work. She was busy picking up chests with ammo and first aid supplies as she drove forward.

Teddy used a different strategy. He’d yell loudly and charge straight at the animals. He’d blast each one at close range and move forward. He made no attempt to turn sideways and demonstrate any strategy.

Taylor smiled. Just like a boy, she thought. No finesse.

Eventually, they both finished the first three rounds. Neither had suffered any real damage, but Teddy’s armor had taken some direct swipes, which loosened a few plates and exposed his tires and treads.

The fourth round was a different terrain. It looked like the battle was being fought on an island that was experiencing a hurricane. Taylor had seen this before and knew that flying palm trees were a big danger, especially if one took out your cannon. She’d died many times playing this game and had learned what to do.

As they started out, Teddy didn’t see the first palm tree sideswipe him as he was too busy shooting slimeballs. Taylor spoke. “Watch out, the flying palm trees come from all directions.”

Teddy didn’t even look. “Button it up, faggot. I don’t need your help.”

Taylor shrugged and continue killing the slimeballs and watched for the debris from the hurricane. “Suit yourself.”

After Teddy had been hit by the flying palm trees and a few metal roofs, his turret was bent, and all he had were his machine guns. He tried to back up as the slimeballs headed toward his wounded truck.

Taylor instinctively moved closer to his truck and used her turret and her machine guns to protect him as she led him to a garage where he could get repairs.

“Fuck. I never saw the repair shop. And well, thanks for protecting me.”

Taylor nodded.

Round Five was all ice and snow. The slimeballs were bigger and looked like abominable snowmen monsters. Not only did they spit acid, but they were also throwing boulders, too.

Taylor chose to side sideways and back to protect herself as she continued to attack and score points by killing the slimeballs. Her pink truck had some scrapes, but it was all cosmetic.

Teddy wasn’t doing as well and was soon having a tough time. His right tread was disabled, and he was having trouble maneuvering to stay alive.

Taylor instinctively moved over to help him. She backed her truck up right in front of him. “Do you want a tow to the next repair shop?”

Before Teddy could respond, three slimeballs surrounded him and started to take him out. “Fuck, fuck, fuck.”

In one minute, the game ended when Teddy’s truck was flattened and on fire.

Taylor sat there quietly. She noticed how pale Teddy had gotten. She watched him stand up and look down at her. “Nice game. Well, nice game for a queer.”

Taylor smiled and nodded. She took the controller over and handed it to Julie. “Thanks for the fun.” She knew all eyes were on her when she dove into the pool and swam back to her recliner.

Julie, Meredith, and Taylor were deep in conversation, trying to ignore all the noise coming from the other side where Cami and her friends were carrying on.

They were deep into laughing when Cami walked over with another girl with long dark hair pulled back in a ponytail. The other girl just hung back and watched.

Cami snarled. “Hey, losers! How ya doin?” She turned towards Julie. “Julie, thanks for inviting us to your pool today. Meredith said you wanted us to bring boys, so here we brought you the cutest ones. But you don’t have to thank me!”

Meredith stood up and looked her sister in the eyes. She got so close she could touch her. “Don’t lie, Cami. Don’t go telling my friends any of your bullshit about me or I will even the score up with mom. I’ll tell her how you and Teddy screw in our backyard every night.”

Cami looked shocked but recovered quickly. “Bullshit, peasant. It would come down to your word versus mine, and nothing will happen. And after that, I will beat the shit out of you.”

Meredith reached over and grabbed her sister’s hand. She quickly turned her wrist backward and twisted it so Cami’s hand was twisted backward to her wrist. Then she twisted the arm behind her back and held it there. Meredith whispered in her sister’s ear. “Now, bitch. Who’s threatening to beat me up? Really, you’re such a punk ass. All these self-defense courses mom made me take! Who knew I’d finally get to try them out on my big sister? Plus, Cami. You really should know that my iPhone shoots very good low-light video. I’ve got a date stamp on each night these past two weeks. On some, the sound is so good that you can hear your voice begging Teddy to fuck you.”

Cami was starting to shake and cry. “That hurts my arm. You wait! I’ll just rip your iPhone into pieces and drown it. You just wait.”

Meredith twisted her sister’s arm more and watched her grit her teeth. “Too late, bitch. I’ve already copied those tapes to all my friends and told them this was my insurance and that you’ll never bother anyone ever again. Mind your bitchin’ ways and start being nice to people. If you do that, you and Teddy can keep on screwing as much as you want.”

Cami hissed. “Fuck. I think you’re dislocating my whole shoulder, and I can’t feel my fingers anymore. You’re killing me.”

Meredith nodded and twisted harder. “Yeah, good. I’m really glad I got your attention.” Cami’s cry made everyone look up.

Meredith yelled out as she let go of Cami and stepped back. She waved her hand over to the older group, who were now looking their way. “It’s okay, guys. Us sisters are just having some fun. Right, sis?”

Cami breathed a sigh of relief and started rubbing the numbness out as she looked at her friends and yelled. “Yeah, we’re just kidding around.” She turned to Meredith and whispered. “This isn’t over.”

Cami’s friend was shaking her head. She’d heard everything, and her mouth was wide open in total shock. She dutifully followed Cami back over to where all the boys were sitting.

Cami announced loud enough for everyone to hear. “It’s time to go. Pack it up, boys. We’re going to get ice cream.” She turned back to Julie and waved. She was still talking loudly. “Thank you. Julie, for inviting us. We’ll see ourselves out. Bye, Taylor. Nice to meet you. And Merry, my wonderful little sister, I love you so much.”

The three girls watched all the older kids exit down the path to their car. They heard the wheels make a noise as they drove away.

At that moment, Julie’s mom and dad were carrying out a sandwich tray and several two-liter sodas. Her mom looked over and saw that everyone had gone. “Oh, now that’s a shame that they left so soon. Too bad.”

Julie’s dad picked up a piece of hoagie and bit into it. “Well, there’s just more for us!”