Pink Bear Romance - Part 2
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

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“How do you think you did on your test?” asked Amy after I met her outside my dorms. She had been waiting in the parking lot after I had called her to let her know I was finished. Maybe in more ways than one.

As I closed the passenger door on Amy’s car, I sighed and said, “I think I squeaked by. I could have used a few extra hours of studying. We’ll find out what our grades were tomorrow.”

Punching me lightly on the shoulder, Amy grinned. “I’m sure you did fine. You know all that computer gobble-d-gook.”

I frowned at her. “It was a history test.”

Amy’s grin slipped. “Oh. Well seriously. I doubt any history has changed since we were in high school. Are you ready to do some shopping?”

Still frowning, I said, “Is this all really necessary?”

Laughing, Amy said as she drove from the parking lot, “Don’t be silly. You need quite a bit, actually. And Joanie does give us all a clothing allowance. Not huge, but it helps. Let’s see. You’re going to need some black hose. More than one pair. You know how easy they snag. Several pairs of bras. White or pink. No black bras except outside working hour dates.” She giggled. “You’ll want to get a pair of pink canvas shoes. You can wear pink sandals if you want. And pink heels for when we cater, which isn’t often.”

Interrupting, I said, “I’m sensing a theme here.”

Amy laughed. “Yes. Think pink. Let’s don’t forget make-up. I’ll help you select which products you’ll need. And if we have time, I suggest going to a salon to fix your hair. You have to admit, it’s a bit life-less. Are your ears still pierced?”

I frowned. “I like my hair life-less. And yes, they’re still pierced.”

Amy giggled. “I still remember that Saturday at the mall when we were there with your mom and she let you get your ears pierced! Your dad was so pissed!”

I chuckled. “Yeah, that was pretty funny. Well, the yelling and screaming wasn’t.”

As she drove us into the strip mall’s parking lot, Amy admitted, “I like your mom. She’s cool. And you know what your mom would probably say right now?”

I rolled my eyes. “Oh please enlighten me, oh great oracle.”

As she parked, Amy giggled at me. “You’re so silly. I’m sure she’d tell you to go to the salon and get rid of those split ends at least. Your hair really could use more body.”

I shook my head. “I’ll think about it.”

Her eyes bright with excitement, she exclaimed, “And after we get all your essentials, I think we should look at some outfits. Dresses. Skirts. Some tops.”

I just looked at her as if she was insane. “Outfits? What the hell for? On the job, I already have the uniform. I don’t need that other stuff. When I came to college, I swore off stupid stuff like crossdressing.”

Amy rolled her eyes. “You’ve said that before. Remember when we went to the mall wearing miniskirts? Who did the boys all look at? It wasn’t me. And you loved it! Don’t deny it.”

I frowned at her. “Yes. It was a hoot. I admit. But I’m more serious now. Let’s go damage my credit card.” I opened the passenger door and got out.

Amy laughed. “You? Serious? Now that’s funny. Come on Mr. Serious. Let’s hit the lingerie store first.”

Upon entering the lingerie store, the sales lady looked confused when Amy snerked when the sales lady said, “Good afternoon, ladies. How can I help you?”

It didn’t take very long to select a package of panties in an assortment of colors along with four packages of black pantyhose. I had forgotten how much fun Amy and I had shopping together. Selecting a good bra took a little more care. I got two in pink, one in white and Amy insisted I get one in black. All in an ‘A’ cup.

I didn’t think we needed to, but Amy wanted to go into the earring store. I wound up getting three pairs. I selected them myself.

Before we were done, I had also bought more make-up than I think I needed. Besides pink nail polish, Amy thought I should get a variety of colors. And lastly a pair of pink canvas tennis. Amy thought I should get a pair of heels as well, but I was tired of spending money. Well, I did get a couple of skirts as well.

The final straw was going into a salon. I finally agreed with Amy and went in to repair my split ends and to give my hair more body. Now I look even more girly. Amy assured me nobody would notice when I went back to my dorm or to my classes.

Grinning ear-to-ear when we got back to her car, Amy asked, “Wasn’t that fun?”

Nodding, I said, “I have to admit that I missed that.”

Amy said, “Going shopping would be more fun if you’d dress up.”

I frowned. “We’re not kids anymore, Amy.”

Amy rolled her eyes. “Oh spare me! We’re both just nineteen! Quit acting like you’re some old man!”

Still standing outside her car and talking over the roof, I exclaimed, “Well excuse me for trying to build a future for myself!”

Placing her palms on the roof of her car, Amy asked, “What’s the rush? You were my best friend back in high school. You were the fun friend. I mean, I had fun with all my girlfriends. It was different with you. You were… you were like my sister. My fun sister. What the hell happened?”

I frowned at her. “I grew up.” I got in her car and closed the door. Amy stood for a few moments outside her car before finally sitting down behind the steering wheel.

Looking over at me, Amy narrowed her eyes and said, “I’m not buying it. You had fun today. You admitted it. And yet you objected to doing anything. What’s going on, Scotti?”

I stared out the windshield for several moments. I felt my emotions starting to kick up, which would be bad. “I had to pick a side to stay on, Amy. I can’t keep pretending I’m one and then the other. I really have to grow up.”

Amy reached over and touched my hand. “I remember that one summer night before we became seniors, you and I were laying in my backyard on a blanket in the grass under the stars.” She laughed. “I didn’t have a pool, but we were both wearing bikinis. I had braided your hair and done your nails and you were wearing make-up, of course and we were talking silly stuff like how we were going to change the world. We were giggling and acting silly and you just got all serious. You got a faraway look in your eyes. I’ll never forget what you said. You said, ‘I wish this would never end.’ I asked you, ‘You mean the summer?’ You shook your head and pointed at yourself and said, ‘No…’”

I interrupted her and looked down at my feet and finished her sentence. “I want to stay a girl like right now. This is who I am.” I felt a tear roll down my cheek.

Amy brushed the tear away. In almost a whisper, she said, “Then do it, Scotti. Live your true life.”

I shook my head. “I can’t, Amy. We all have to grow up sometime. You know, once I complete my degree, Dad told me he would be able to get me a great position in the computer department at the company he works for. Not here, but in Dallas or possibly the Colorado site. Can you imagine?” I sniffled.

Her fingers lingering on my cheek, she asked, “Is that what you want?”

I shrugged. “Dad says it means success.”

Amy nodded. She drove her car out of the parking lot and back to my dorm.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 3
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

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As I entered my dorm building, I was happy to find it empty. My emotions were a bit frayed and I didn’t want to have to deal with anyone. Amy had brought back a lot of memories that I had pushed down. I had thrown away all my girls things. Clothes, make-up and shoes just before leaving for college. It was time to be a man.

As I got off the elevator on my floor, I saw some guy I’ve never seen before knocking on my neighbor’s door. There’s a cluster of dorm rooms surrounding a common area and a kitchen. My room was on the opposite side of the hall from where the guy was knocking. I had my keys in my hand as I stepped behind him to unlock my door.

He smiled at me and said, “I like your hair.” That struck me as a very odd thing for a guy to say to another guy.

I mumbled, “Thanks,” as I opened my door just when my neighbor opened his door.

The guy entered the room and as the door was closing, I heard him say, “You never told me you had a chick living next door.” I didn’t hear anything else after the door closed. While this is a co-ed dorm and the college mixes males and females together, as far as I know, there are no females living in my section. So he must mean me. Terrific. I told Amy going to a salon was a bad idea.

I dumped my new clothes and make-up on my bed and scowled at it. The clothes can go in my closet and drawers, but where am I going to keep all my make-up? I’m going to need a bag to keep it in and carry it up to the restaurant. Another thing to buy I guess. That’s going to be a pain, applying my make-up in that small, grimy restroom. I need to come up with a better plan. At least there was some room to change into my uniform in Joanie’s office.

As I put my bottles of nail polish on my desk, another thought hit me. Well shit. I’m going to have to apply this polish before I leave for work or it won’t be dry in time. That means walking through the dorms with my nails polished. That’s when I noticed I didn’t get any nail polish remover. Crap, crap, crap.

I frowned at my new clothes. Joanie had given me two dresses so I don’t have to wear the same one all week. And then the two skirts I bought. I sighed. I should probably wash these things before I wear them. The laundry room is in the building’s basement. The dresses and skirts can look like lumps of cloth, but there’s no hiding what the bras and panties are. This just isn’t going to work. My laundry bag is going to be stuffed.

I looked out my window at the growing darkness. I should go grab something to eat, do some study for two hours and then hit my new laundry. This is already becoming a burden. Tomorrow I have two classes in the morning, two after lunch then go to work at five until ten thirty. I should have applied at that on campus job in the library.

With a little trepidation, I cracked open the door to my room and peeked out. I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw the hallway was empty. I just need to walk quickly to the elevators. When the elevator doors opened on the first floor, there were three girls waiting to get on. None of them said anything to me. They just smiled and got on the elevator. Maybe I’m just worrying for nothing.

Good thing the walk across campus to the main street where a Mickey D’s was located was short. It was starting to get a bit chilly. Not uncomfortable, but a sweater would have been nice.

When I opened the door to Mickey D’s, I was blasted by the sounds of dozens of voices. It was packed with other students who, like me, were tired of eating ramen. Despite being busy, the line was relatively short. I was a bit unnerved with I looked about the room and kept catching boys casting glances at me. What the hell? I just changed how my hair looked. Did it really make that big of a difference? Or am I just being more sensitive? I’m constantly being mistaken for a girl.

When I finally stepped up to place my order, the woman at the cash register asked, “Sweetie, how can I help you?” I just took a deep breath and let her “sweetie” comment roll by and placed my order. As she handed me my number, she smiled and said, “Here you go, hon.” There was a boy standing behind me and when he stepped up to the woman to place his order, she said, “How can I help you, sir?” I’m sure it meant nothing.

With the crowd, the heat turned too high, and boys looking at me it soon got to be too much. I felt like the walls were closing in. I know it was just my imagination, but I was glad when I was finally able to grab my order and step back out into the cool air. I hurried back to my dorm.

Walking down the hall to my room, the door to my neighbor’s room opened and the boy I saw earlier along with my neighbor stepped out of his room. They both grinned stupidly as I pressed myself against the wall to give them plenty of room to squeeze pass. After they passed, I heard my neighbor say, “Damn! How did I miss that?” I sighed. I need to ask for a new room or shave my head. Or both.

I set my box of nuggets down and fired up my laptop so I could start studying. I needed to focus, but I was really annoyed by my neighbor referring to me as a “that”. Or I’m probably just being paranoid and he was referring to the zit on his nose.

The next two hours ground by as I trudged through the reading assignments for my two morning classes.

I looked at the clock. It was getting late. I looked at the clothes on my bed and groaned. I still needed to wash them. Not all of it had to be done tonight, but why not get it out of the way? I have to wash a bra, at least one panty and one dress, so I might as well wash them all. Including all my t-shirts and other pair of jeans.

I stuffed everything into my laundry bag, which was now just a bit too full and hefted it up to my shoulder. I had just closed my door and started down the hall when my neighbor decided to return, not only with his friend, but another friend as well. To give me room to go down the hall with my load, they actually stepped aside in the common area. All three grinned at me as I walked past.

After I got past them and headed to the main hall to the elevators, one of them called out, “Excuse me!” I didn’t turn around he again said, “Excuse me!”

I finally turned around, annoyed, to see the boy I didn’t know at all with a silly grin on his face while holding my pink bra in his hand. Grinning, he asked, “Is this yours, miss?” Oh my God! It fell out of my bag.

He wouldn’t bring it to me, so I had to walk closer to him. Mortified, I reached out for it and with an embarrassed smile, I said, “Yes. Thank you.” This is terrible.

As I reached for it, the fucking asshole decided to make a game out of it, by pulling it back out of my reach before I could grab it. All three laughed and then he let me take it. I knew my face was beet red. The boy said, “You’re welcome, miss. Do you need any help?”

They all continued to laugh as I shoved the bra as far into the bag as I could. I said, “Thanks, but I think I’ve got it.”

Grinning, the boy said, “Well, you let us know if you need more help with your undies.” They all laughed again and just stood there watching as I hurried down the hall to the elevators. Well this is just great. Now it’s cemented in their tiny little brains that I’m a girl. And I was going to have to wash my pink bra twice because it was touched by a boy.

I slid my key card in the slot at the laundry room door and dragged my laundry bag inside. At first I thought I was alone, but I saw a girl sitting with her back against a wall and her feet up on a washer as she read her Kindle. She looked up, gave me a brief smile and went back to reading. I sighed as I wished I’d brought something to read.

I got all my clothes loaded into two machines. The washers were old and made a ruckus when they operated. The girl got up to transfer her clothes to a dryer. She looked over at me and grinned. “Sometimes I think I’m the only female in this building.” She had short, shoulder length sandy blonde hair and was wearing shorts and a tank top.

I smiled weakly back at her and said, “I know the feeling.”

As she turned on the dryer, she said, “My name’s Ocean, by the way.”

I gave her a curious look. “O… Ocean?”

She laughed. “Yep. I hated it when I was a kid because everyone made fun of it. But now I think it’s kinda cool.”

I smiled at her. “It’s definitely different. I’m Scotty.”

Grinning, she said, “Nice to meet you, Scotti.” Somehow I just knew she put an I at the end instead of a Y. “So. What are you studying?”

I stepped a little closer to her. Shrugging, I said, “Computer Science.”

Ocean nodded and smiled at me. “Good for you. We need more women in that field.”

I just nodded. About half my classes were girls. I said, “And you?”

“I’m an art major.” She laughed. “I know what you’re thinking. But my focus is on commercial art. I’d like to be an illustrator.”

I nodded. “Cool.” Well, here’s another person who thinks I’m a girl. On top of a job where I have to wear a dress. Dad’s going to be disappointed that college so far isn’t making a man out of me.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 4
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

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I have to admit that I wasn’t exactly looking forward to walking down the hall to get to my first class. I really hoped my next door neighbor had already left or was sleeping in.

I grinned as I hoisted my book bag up onto my shoulder. No one would know. Just me. I had decided to wear my pink panties. Surely this one indulgence won’t topple my resolution to become the man my dad wants me to be.

I hope I have enough time to do my nails before I have to leave for work. A job that requires me to wear a dress and make-up. I took a deep breath. That won’t stop me either.

I opened my room door and was relieved to see the empty hallway. I walked vigorously down the hall to the elevators. The elevator car was empty, which is how I like them. When I exited the elevator, I saw four girls standing around in the lobby. I usually ignore these girls as they always ignore me, the stuck up bitches. They travel in a pack and I run across them every now and then. I always smile at them as a greeting, but they don’t even look at me as they walk past.

Today, they all smiled as I walked past them. One said, “Oh, I love your hair!”

I smiled back as I tripped slightly on the carpet. I mumbled, “Thanks!” I looked hastily around for evidence of Rod Serling. I get my hair changed and suddenly it’s a new world.

I stepped out of the dorm building into the brisk autumn air. I shivered. Not from cold, but because of the alien world I suddenly find myself in. As usual I left my car in the parking lot as it’s a nice, breezy walk to my classes.

My first class was Calculus. Several friends from high school, including Amy suggested something else for a morning class. But I decided I wanted to get that out of the way while my brain was still somewhat fresh. I chafed at having to take it anyway. I honestly feel I’ll never have a use for it. It annoyed me that by the time I graduate, I’ll almost have a math degree along with my comp sci. Dad, who’s an engineer loves math and was excited I was taking so many classes. He told me it’d put hair on my chest. I hoped to God that wasn’t true. But then he said the same thing for my disastrous stint at being on the football team in middle school.

Things seemed a bit more normal as I walked through the halls of the math and science building. Everyone walking by was too busy locked in their own personal hell of math classes to notice my hair. Or notice anything. Dad has assured me that the college’s math department was top notch. When you’d rather be somewhere else, that doesn’t mean a lot.

I finally reached my class and sat down in the same seat I’ve been using since the semester started. As typical, the instructor wasn’t in the class yet. I’ll need to get a different desk next time though. There’s a boy in the class; the quintessential nerd who is always the first person to get in the classroom with greasy hair and thick glasses had watched me enter the classroom. I think his name is Alfred.

Alfred turned around in his seat and stared at me with an unnerving, goofy expression. He said, “Hey, you’re hot. Wanna go out?” I need to shave my head.

His words cut me right down to my soul like a bolt of ice. I quickly said, “No! I mean, thank you, but no. Really. No.” It would have been bad enough for any boy to actually ask me out, but I was shaken to the core for Alfred to do so and in front of other people.

I hadn’t noticed the instructor walking in. With a smirk as he looked at his notes while standing at his podium, he said, “Ah, romance.” I glared at him.

Still grinning, Alfred asked, “How about Friday?”

I looked coldly at Alfred. “No. Nein. Nyet. Non.”

A boy who just sat down behind me asked, “So, does that mean you’re free on Friday?”

I scowled at him and said, “No.” I looked from him to Alfred. “Now just knock it off.” Shaking my head, I turned around to listen to the instructor. The boy behind me chuckled. I couldn’t concentrate on anything the instructor said. Boys just should not be asking me out on dates! It’s insane.

The instructor looked over at me and said, “If you’re through playing with the boys, miss, I’ll get started.” Alfred grinned at me.

When we were dismissed from the class, I rushed upstairs to my Unix Administrator class. I would be free from Alfred. None of the other students even looked up when I entered the classroom and took a seat.

On the other side of the room, I notice one guy lean over to someone in the row next to him. I could barely hear him ask, “Is that a chick over there?”

The other guy didn’t even look over at me. “Wishful thinking, dude. No chick is gonna take this class.” The guy who asked just frowned and nodded.

I relaxed.

At lunch, I discovered if people mistake you for a girl, don’t eat a corndog. No one bothered me, but several boys with grins on their faces watched me eat.

My afternoon class was two hours long and was Love Poems of the English Renaissance. I was the only boy in the class and nobody noticed. I think I signed up for this class by accident. Anyway, it’s an English credit.

I made it back to my room without further incidents. I sighed as I picked up the bottle of pink nail polish on my desk. I had no choice but to put this stuff on before I left for work.

As I started buffing my nails my cell phone rang. I was going to ignore it, but I saw it was Amy calling. Maybe work was canceled today?

When I answered the phone, Amy chirped, “Scotti! Just checking to make sure you haven’t forgotten about work today.”

“Are you kidding me?” I exclaimed. “I’ve been worried sick about it. I was about to do my nails when you called.”

Sounding puzzled, Amy said, “Doing your nails?” She paused a moment and said, “Oh yeah. They won’t dry in time if you did it at work. By the way, I’m going to pick you up about 5:30. Any trouble from your next door neighbor?”

“Yeah,” I said a bit gruffly. “You insisting I go to the salon has caused me endless grief. My neighbor and some guys in my classes think I’m a girl now.”

Amy laughed. “Sorry. I didn’t think it’d make that big of a difference.” There was a long pause. She continued, “Actually, that’s a good thing!”

I frowned at the phone. “How is that a good thing?”

Amy chuckled. “Don’t you get it? Since they already think you’re a girl, it frees you to be girlie! Now you can change your clothes and put on your make-up before you leave. Trying to do your make-up in the grimy little restroom can be a pain.”

A light bulb went off over my head. The electrics aren’t great in this dorm room. I said, “I hadn’t thought of that. That would be a time saver. And do you guys ever clean that restroom?”

Amy giggled, “That will be your job tonight.”

She couldn’t see me, but I rolled my eyes. “Gee thanks.”

Amy groaned, “You rolled your eyes at me, didn’t you? Anyway, I’ll pick you up at 5:30. Try to be downstairs and ready to go.”

“Roger roger,” I said as she disconnected.

I picked up my nail polish and began brushing it on.

*          *          *

I started to walk to my door after checking my make-up and dress when I had a sudden thought. I ran back to my dresser and picked up a pair of my new earrings. No point buying them if you’re not going to wear them. After fumbling around for a minute, I finally got them in. They looked cute.

I put my hand on the doorknob. I took a deep breath. Please let the hallway be clear, I mumbled to myself. I adjusted my purse strap on my shoulder and slowly turned the knob. I breathed a sigh of relief as I stepped out into an empty hallway. I didn’t hear anyone in the common area.

I was midway down the hall when the elevator doors opened and four boys stepped out. It couldn’t be just one. Or two. No, it had to be four. One was my across the hall neighbor. Does he ever go to class?

All four boys suddenly were all four grins. My neighbor, who I should probably learn his name someday, exclaimed, “Woah! What have we here? You work at Pink Bear?”

Embarrassed at being stared at, I said as I looked down the front of my Pink Bear uniform, “Guilty as charged. Can I get through here? I don’t want to be late.” The boys were clogging the hallway.

One said, “Larry! You’ve been holding out on us!”

Larry, my newly named neighbor, admitted, “Hey, I didn’t even know she was a chick until this week.”

The boy who had picked up my bra the other day said, “I bet I can guess the color of her bra!”

I scowled at him. Irritated, I said, “Can I get by, please?” I didn’t want to get close to any of them.

Larry grinned at me. “Maybe we should order from Pink Bear. They do have good burgers.”

As I tried to squeeze past, I said, “We also have a great chicken fried steak.”

A third boy complained, “Hey, it’s game night. I want pizza!”

“Can I get by, please?” I was completely surrounded and it was making me very uncomfortable. I really doubted these boys meant any harm to me, but nobody likes feeling trapped.

Frowning, Larry said, “Will you guys stop being such turds and let the lady get by?” He held up his phone. “And Stan, I’m ordering the pizza now.”

They all stepped back to let me get through. I muttered “Thanks,” as I quickly slipped by.

“Hey! I saw her bra strap! She is wearing the pink one!” I didn’t turn around. I quickly stepped into the elevator. I was so embarrassed. Is no one ever going to invent teleportation?

As the elevator door closed, I heard Larry chuckle, “She works at Pink Bear. What did you expect?”

I exited the dorm building into the cool afternoon air. Amy waved from her car in the parking lot. I ran to her car.

As I started to slide into the passenger seat, Amy glanced over at me, “You certainly took your time. I was worried we might be late!”

As I smoothed my skirt, I said, “Sorry. I had a gauntlet of boys to run through.”

Laughing, Amy said, “Stop being so beautiful!”

I scowled at Amy. “So it’s all my fault?”

Amy shook her head. “That’s not what I meant.”

I folded my arms across my chest and we drove in silence to Pink Bear.

As we entered the restaurant, Joanie pointed at the clock. “You girls are one minute late!”

Angry, Amy growled as she pointed at me, “It’s her fault! She had to flirt with all the boys in her dorm!”

“I wasn’t flirting!” I exclaimed.

Joanie shook her head and sighed. “I was joking. Anyway, you girls settle down. We’re about to get busy.” Joanie handed me my new name tag with “Scotti” on it.

Two cars pulled up at the same time in front of the restaurant.

As we got ready behind the counter, Amy turned to me and said, “I’m sorry, Scotti. I shouldn’t have said that.”

I frowned at her. “You’re right. You shouldn’t have.”

As the front door opened, Amy hissed at me, “I’m trying to apologize, asshole.”

I took a deep breath. “Okay. I’ll stop.” I turned to face the customer and whispered, “Ah shit.” It was Alfred from Calculus along with a couple of his pimple-faced buddies.

Grinning, Alfred said, “It must be kismet!”

I forced a smile. “Not the word I was thinking. Can I interest you gentlemen in a hot, delicious chicken fried steak dinner?”

A few minutes later, when I exited the restroom after washing my hands and feeling dirtier than when I entered, Joanie tapped my shoulder and said to Amy, “Why can’t you plus sell like that, Amy? Five chicken fried steak dinners all at once!” Two more boys had come in after Alfred.

Amy frowned, “I can’t flirt like that! Did you see the way she wiggled her cute little butt at them? It’s shameful!”

Joanie chuckled. “As long as she makes a sell, I don’t care.” She went back into her office.

I frowned and jerked on Amy’s hair. “What the hell is up with you?”

With a huff, Amy said, “Last night, when it was me and Sherry working, four boys… four! … asked about you and then left when I told them you weren’t working that day. What? Me or Sherry aren’t good enough to serve them?”

I glared at Amy, “And how is that my fault? I have no idea who those boys were. You need to chill, girl. You invited me to work here.”

Amy nodded. “You’re right. You’re right. I guess I’m being silly.”

I pointed at a car pulling up in front of the restaurant. I said, “I’ll go into the restroom and powder my nose and you can take these customers. Okay?”

As I started to turn away, two boys entered. One grinned and shouted, “Scotti! Hey. We’re here to give your chicken fried steaks a try!”

I grinned and turned to face the two boys. I said, “Just two?”

The boy who spoke laughed. “There’re just two of us. I hope you don’t mind me saying this, but you sure smell pretty.”

Amy said, “Arrgh!” The two boys gave her a strange look.

I said, “Don’t mind her. And thank you!”

*          *          *

The restaurant had finally cleared of customers and we were little less than an hour away from closing. Amy leaned on the counter and ran her hand through her hair and groaned. She looked over at me and said, “Scotti, I’m so sorry I’ve been such a bitch tonight. This has been a day, to say the least. So many things were going on today. I shouldn’t take my frustrations out on you.”

I gave her a hug. “I was wondering what the deal was. I’m sorry you had a bad day.”

She looked over at me and tried to smile. “Thanks. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better.” She glanced up at the clock. “Thank God we’ll be closing soon.”

Car headlights shone through the front windows. “Well, we’re not closed yet.” I sighed. We both groaned when we saw who entered. It was Jerry. From my first night. He was by himself.

Before I could speak, Amy said, “Good evening! How can I help you? Can I interest you in our delicious chicken fried steak?”

Jerry shook his head. “No thanks.” He looked past Amy and said, “Hi Scotti!” Looking back at Amy, he said, “I’ll just have a chocolate shake.”

Amy shook her butt. “Are you sure you don’t want a chicken fried steak?”

Shaking his head, Jerry said, “Thanks, but no.” He put his credit card on the counter.

I smiled at Jerry and announced, “Chocolate shake coming up!”

While I was making the shake, Amy’s phone rang. We’re supposed to have our phones on silent. She turned her back on us so we couldn’t hear her. As I handed the shake to Jerry, Amy disappeared into Joanie’s office.

Jerry sat at one of the seats by the counter as Amy came up to me. “Hey girl. I’m really sorry. But something’s come up. I have to go. I hate abandoning you since I’m your ride. Maybe you can get an Uber or something.”

I gave Amy a worried look. “Is everything okay?”

Amy heaved a big sigh. “One of the problems from this afternoon has resurfaced. Are you going to be able to get back to the dorm okay?” She gathered up her purse and started to walk to the door.

I shrugged. “It’s not terribly far. I can just walk.”

Jerry said, “Sorry to butt in, but that’s a bad idea. A little girl like you, walking alone in the darkness. Bad idea.”

Amy raised her eyebrows at me. She shrugged, “He’s right. Call an Uber or something.”

Before I could say anything, Jerry announced, “I can take you. I wouldn’t mind.”

Amy’s eyes lit up. “Hey, that’s a great idea! But I really need to go. See you tomorrow.” She hurried out the door.

Riding alone in a car with a boy I didn’t really know didn’t sound like a great idea to me. It doesn’t matter that I’m also a boy. This guy is bigger than me. He’s stronger than me. But does he mean me harm? I looked at him and he just grinned goofily at me.

I said, “I’d hate to put you to all that trouble. I’ll just walk back to my dorm.”

Jerry shook his head as he sucked up some of his shake through his straw. “If you were a dude, I’d just say hey man, your funeral, dude. But not to a chick. It’s no trouble at all.”

I grinned at Jerry and said, “Who said chivalry is dead?”

Jerry said, “Just call me Mr. Chivalry.” He laughed.

“I don’t get off for half an hour. Do you really want to wait that long?” I asked. Personally I’d rather just call a ride share.

Jerry grinned and slapped his credit card back on the counter. “Give me another round!”

I picked up his card. I asked, “You sure?”

He nodded. “And this time with whipped cream!”

I just shook my head as I made him another shake and then squirted whipped cream on top.

He picked up the glass and managed to get whipped cream on his nose. I laughed.

Jerry grinned at me. He said, “I like you. Maybe we should go out sometime?”

Looking worried, I said, “Let’s not get carried away.”

“I like to throw caution to the wind!” He then chugged the chocolate shake I had just given him. He coughed and sputtered.

I took the glass away from him. “Don’t drown on chocolate, okay?”

Jerry laughed as he wiped his face with a napkin. “Cause then you’ll have to walk home anyway.”

He slapped his card down again. I shook my head and said, “I think you’ve reached your limit. Too much sugar for you.”

Joanie stepped out of her office and chuckled. “Scotti, why don’t you go ahead and go. Me and the kitchen staff will clean up.”

I asked, “You sure?” She nodded and made a shooing motion.

As I walked around the counter, Jerry reached out and took my hand. He said, “Let’s go.” He led me the fifteen feet to his car and opened the passenger door for me. He waited by the door while I slipped into my seat and smoothed my skirt under me. He then closed the door. He ran around to the drivers door and got in.

He turned to me as he started his car. “I’m going to be serious now. Which building?”

I said, “Hemmingway Hall.”

Jerry nodded. “I know where that is.” He backed out into the street, made an illegal U turn and accelerated back to the campus entrance.

A few minutes later, Jerry drove his car into a parking spot. He shut the engine off. He leaned towards me. Oh God. I need to get out of this car. I pulled the door handled. He touched my arm.

“Hey wait.” Jerry said. “I’ll walk you to your room.”

I smiled at him as I opened the passenger door. “Thanks for bringing me this far, but I think I can find my way from here.”

“Let me walk you to your room,” insisted Jerry. “It could be dangerous.”

I laughed. “It’s not dangerous!”

He touched my hand. “Please?”

I sighed. “Okay.” I figured he was going to badger me until I relented. I got out of his car and stood next to it as he ran around the front of his car.

As he took my hand, he asked, “What floor?”

“Fourth.”

As we entered the downstairs lobby to the building, there were three boys talking. I didn’t know any of them. One looked up and grinned. “Jerry! Are you in this building?”

Shaking his head as he slid one arm around my waist, Jerry said, “Nah. I’m escorting her to her room. And get your mind out of the gutter!” The other boy laughed.

Taking my hand, we got into the elevator and he punched the four button.

The elevator door opened and I was dismayed to see Larry and his buddies in the common area, apparently still playing whatever game it was.

With his free hand, Jerry waved to Larry. “Hey Larr!” Instead of continuing to my room, he stopped. He kept a grip on my hand so I couldn’t leave.

I saw Larry look at our hands. He grinned. “Jeesh, Jerry. It didn’t take you long to snatch up the prettiest girl in the building!”

Jerry laughed. “Well, of course! Maybe if you lugs actually talked to girls instead of playing that game, you too could get a girl.” All the boys laughed. Jerry pointed down the hall. “I got to get her home. I’ll be back in a minute.

Stan laughed, “How about leaving the chick here and you go home?”

The boy who had touched my bra exclaimed, “I like that idea.”

I figured it was time I better say something. I grinned, “Guys, I’m beat. I need to get to bed.”

Larry asked, “Do you need any help?” The other boys laughed.

Stan said in hushed tones, “She actually spoke to us.”

Still holding my hand, Jerry said, “And chumps, that’s why you’ll never have a pretty lady like this. Back in a minute.” With a tug he led me down to my door.

I hope he’s not expecting a kiss. I unlocked my door and turned to face Jerry. “Thanks again for bringing me home, Jerry.”

Leaning on one arm over me, Jerry grinned. “Any time, Scotti. Anytime.” He then leaned towards me and he pressed his lips against my forehead. “Good night.”

I didn’t realize I had been holding my breath. I exhaled and gave him a goofy grin. “Nite. See ya.” I then opened my door and quickly slipped inside. I closed the door behind me and locked it. I leaned back against the door and let out a huge sigh of relief.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 5
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I fumbled around trying to find my phone to turn off the alarm. To hell with it. I sat up in my bed and looked around bleary-eyed while listening to the alarm. I was just wearing a t-shirt and panties. A random thought sifted through my brain making me think I should probably get proper pajamas. I’m by myself, so who cares?

After a moment of slapping around on the sheets, I discover my phone was lying on the floor. To turn it off meant climbing out of bed. Why does life have to be so hard? I slid off my bed so I could retrieve my phone. I managed to press the button to turn off the alarm. It should be illegal to close one night and then open the next morning. I’ll have to talk to Joanie about that.

I stretched and scratched and took care of my morning business. I squinted at my face in the mirror. Do I have to put on make-up?

My cell phone rang. I wanted to flush it, but I saw that it was Amy calling. I decided to answer it. Sounding disgustingly cheerful, Amy said, “Hey Scotti! I was just checking to see if you set your alarm for this morning.”

I grumbled into the phone, “How can you be so cheerful this early?”

Amy laughed. “You’re funny, girl. I’ll pick you up in a hour. Ta!” She disconnected.

After much gnashing of teeth and growling, I managed to get dressed and get my make-up on. I put in a different set of earrings. Amy said they won’t get another shipment of Pink Bear earrings for at least another week.

I stepped out into an empty hallway; my favorite kind. I turned to my door and fumbled around inside my purse to get my room key. As I was locking it, I heard Larry’s door open. Does this guy RADAR?

“Well, good morning, Scotti!” said Larry cheerfully. Is everyone cheerful this time of day?

I turned around in the cramped space in front of our doors. “Hey Larry.” I noticed his book bag on his shoulder. “Books? You actually have a class?”

Not moving to make more room, Larry laughed. “Shocking, isn’t it? I have two back-to-back math classes this morning.”

I made a face. “Gak! I hate math.”

Larry chuckled. “I think it’s fun.” As I tried to work my way past him, he looked at me seriously for a moment. "Can I ask you a personal question?”

After I got past him, I frowned. “Depends. I mean you can always ask… But make it quick. My ride is waiting for me.”

Larry shrugged. “It’s quick. No big deal. I was just curious if you and Jerry are um… uh… “

I frowned at Larry and hazarded a guess. “Dating? Gee I can’t imagine why you’d ask that.”

Larry raised his hands defensively. “Hey. I’m just curious since I saw you two holding hands and kissing and all.” Oh my God! We weren’t kissing!

Scowling, I growled, “That’s none of your damned business!” Would a denial have been better? Or would it have just opened the door to him?

Larry just looked over at me after I had finally managed to get on his other side. “Sorry. No offense. He’s just not even in your league.”

I just stood there a moment and blinked a few times. How do I respond to that? I said, “I need to go.” I turned and ran down the hall.

“I was wondering if you were going to make it. We really need to go.” Amy started her car before I had even closed the passenger door.

“Sorry. My neighbor, Larry, held me up with a stupid question.”

“Larry?” asked Amy. “Is that your neighbor’s name? What did he want?”

I nodded. “Yes. His name is Larry. I can’t believe he would ask me this.”

Amy narrowed her eyes at me. “Ask you what?”

I sighed. “He asked if Jerry and I are dating.”

Amy drove into traffic. “That’s crazy. Why would he think that? Jerry just dropped you off, right?”

I shook my head and readjusted the headband with the pink bear ears on my head. “Jerry took it on himself to escort me to my door.”

Looking confused, Amy said, “So? That’s just being nice. It doesn’t mean you’re dating.”

I looked over at Amy and said coldly, “He kissed me.”

Amy rolled through a red light. “He did what?”

I looked down at my hands. “He kissed me. It was on my forehead, but still.”

Amy frowned. “He had no business kissing you anywhere. You really don’t even know him.”

“Not to mention I’m a boy.” I sighed.

Amy grunted a laugh. “The jury is still out on that. But still. He shouldn’t have done that. He kissed you in front of Larry?”

I nodded. “In front of Larry’s whole little cabal.”

Grinning, Amy asked, “So how many boys is it now that like you?” She drove into a parking spot behind Pink Bear.

I scowled at Amy. “You’re not funny.”

As we got out of her car, Amy said, “Hey girl. I know it’s annoying, not that I’d know personally, but you’re very pretty. You gotta expect boys to notice you.”

Standing outside of Pink Bear’s entrance, I said, “I shouldn’t have to put up with being randomly kissed.”

Amy opened the door to Pink Bear and said, “Oh I agree with you there. He was out of line.”

Joanie brightly said, “Good morning girls! What’s up today?”

Amy chuckled, “Scotti has boy problems!”

Joanie laughed. “Oh to be young again.” She went back into her office.

I looked curiously at Amy. “Is she here twenty-four hours?”

Amy nodded. “Yes.”

*          *          *

It was if they were waiting. As soon as I turned the “Open” sign on, several cars drove up and about a half dozen boys piled out.

Joanie leaned over to Amy and said, “Since we hired your friend, we’re getting a lot more boys coming in.”

Amy folded her arms and said, “Gee. I can’t imagine why.”

Before turning from her to the counter, I said, “I’m not doing anything.”

As several boys came in through the front door, one of them said quietly to his friend, “I told you.”

The other boy nodded. “You’re right. She is hot.”

I smiled at them and said, “How may I help you gentlemen?”

They all stared at me with goofy expressions. Amy pointed at the sign over our heads and said, “You can only get what’s on our breakfast menu.”

Looking a bit disappointed, one boy looked from me up to the menu. “Oh. I guess I’ll have the large student breakfast special.” The student breakfast special was a medium breakfast burrito, hash browns and a medium soda.

The boy behind him said, “Same for me!”

The boy behind him shouted, “Me too!”

As I was ringing up the sales, the first boy looked at me with a grin and asked, “Do you go to school here?”

I knew what he meant, but I said, “Here at Pink Bear?” I giggled.

The boy shook his head. “No. No. At the university.”

I nodded and said, “Yes.”

The boy said, “Cool. Just curious. I haven’t seen you on campus.”

I laughed. “I haven’t seen you either.” And if I’m lucky, I never will.

As he was putting his wallet back into his pocket, he said, “I’ll keep an eye out.”

I handed him a pink slip of paper. “In the mean time, bring in this slip and get ten percent off your next chicken fried steak dinner.”

As Amy set a tray down with someone’s breakfast and she called out the number, she turned to me and whispered “How many boys have you flirted with so far today?”

I frowned at her and said, “I’ve lost count.”

Things quieted down a bit when three teachers walked in. I took them for teachers because they weren’t boys and were dressed somewhat business casual. And one was an absolutely hunk and a half.

Amy giggled to me. “You can keep your boys. I’ll take these guys.” She elbowed me.

Two of the instructors stood back and looked at the menu. One walked up and started talking to Amy about their order.

The Mr. Hunk walked up to the counter and obviously studied my name tag. I smiled and said, “How may I help you?”

Mr. Hunk said, “Good morning Scotti. I’ve never been here before. What sounds good to you?”

Under her breath, Amy muttered, “Of course…”

Smiling broadly, I said, “Personally, sir, I really like the breakfast egg and sausage burrito meal. Comes with hash browns and your choice of a small drink.”

“Sounds good, Scotti. I’ll go with that.” Mr. Hunk slid his card across the counter. As I retrieved the card, I said, “Yes sir. Coming right up, Mr. Nichols.” He flashed me a smile when I said his name. I noticed Amy taking the order of the third teacher.

As we both hung our orders in the window for the kitchen to start making, in a low voice Amy said, “Stop salivating over our customers, girl. I didn’t think you liked older men.”

I shrugged. “I didn’t either. But I just think he’s hot.”

With a frown, Amy whispered, “Just remember. You can’t date teachers.”

With a huff, I said, “Did I say I wanted to?”

Amy just rolled her eyes and turned to help the next customer. In fact, we got real busy for several minutes. Someone in the kitchen yelled, “Order up!” I turned to look and it was Mr. Nichols order. I picked up the tray and took it to the counter.

I looked at him and said, “Order Sixteen is ready!” As he came to pick up his tray, I said, “Please enjoy your breakfast, Mr. Nichols. Please come back again soon.” I giggled at the end.

He smiled at me and said, “Thank you. I probably will.”

Amy shook her head at me. “Oh brother.”

I frowned at Amy. “What now?”

Amy sighed. “Flirting with teachers now?”

I rolled my eyes at her. “I am not! I’m just being friendly!”

After ten minutes or so, the teachers all stood up to leave. I looked at Mr. Nichols and said with a grin, “Thank you! Please come again!” I waved. He waved back.

Amy whacked my arm. “What the hell is with you? When did you start liking men?”

I frowned at Amy. “I don’t. I was just being friendly! You should try it sometime.”

Amy looked me in the eye and said, “Do yourself a favor and stick with boys.”

I shook my head. “Why do you think I’m interested in guys?”

She laughed.

*          *          *

Joanie stepped out of her office and surveyed the restaurant full of customers happily eating. “You girls did great! Lunch is always busy, but you two didn’t miss a beat. Good job! We even had some teachers.”

Amy nodded. “Thank you Joanie. It got really crazy there.”

While we were taking a well deserved break from all the hectic business, A car pulled up into the parking lot.

I sighed. “Ah crap. I recognize that car. I can’t catch a break.”

Amy chuckled. “Oh yeah. That’s your boyfriend, Jerry.”

I scowled at Amy. "He's not my boyfriend!"

When Jerry walked into the restaurant. I smiled and waved to him. “Hi Jerry! What can we do for you today?”

Jerry walked up to the counter and leaned heavily on it. “That’s what I came to talk to you about.”

I kept smiling. “Can I interest you in our lunch special?”

Jerry looked very nervous. He said, “You can, but I uh… uh... Scotti, I have to say… and I mean it…” He took a deep breath. “Scotti, you’re the prettiest damn girl I’ve ever seen. And you’re so stinkin’ nice. What I mean to say is… I uh… Scotti, would you go out with me?”

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 6
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I just stood there; frozen. Jerry had asked me in a loud enough voice that everyone in the restaurant had heard him. And like some scene in a horror movie, everyone had stopped talking and turned to look at me. How should I react? I can’t go on a date!

For an extended moment, I just stared at Jerry. Behind me, Amy whispered, “Say yes.”

“I… I don’t know, Jerry. I appreciate the invitation but this is a busy week. I’m up here every day until four-thirty and I have a test Friday morning to study for. I’ll have to work late Friday to make up for taking time off for the test.” That wasn’t just a dodge. It was all true. Well, kinda sorta true. I still have to work in my classes.

Before Jerry could react, Joanie said, “Scotti, I’ll just move your shift to Saturday to free up your Friday. I was young once.” She disappeared back into her office. No! No! No! Why did she do that? I had a perfectly good out without flat out rejecting Jerry.

Grinning, Amy said, “That gives you time to get your hair done in the afternoon.”

Smiling, Jerry said, “Looks like your Friday is open. Would you like to go out?”

Not only was there a room filled with people waiting for my answer, but it was very hard to ignore Jerry’s earnest face. I took a deep breath.

I smiled nervously and said, “I’d be happy to, Jerry.” That was a lie, but I felt trapped. Bizarrely, an applause and cheer rose from the Pink Bear customers.

Grinning, Jerry said, “Thanks Scotti! I’ll come by your dorm Friday at six PM to pick you up.”

Not knowing what else to say, I asked, “How about that chicken fried steak for lunch?”

Jerry patted his stomach. “Oh, I just ate at Caine’s before coming here. I’m stuffed. Maybe tomorrow. I have a class coming up, so catch you later.”

“Sure. See ya.” I turned to frown at Amy as Jerry walked out of the restaurant. “What the hell am I doing?”

Amy leaned on the counter and grinned at me. “Looks like you have a date!”

Growling, I said, “I didn’t want a date! I can’t go out with a boy!”

Shaking her head, Amy said, “You need to start having some fun, girl.”

I frowned. “How is a date with a boy fun?”

Amy laughed. “Do you really have to ask that question? This won’t be your first date with a boy.”

I shook my head. “Those other times don’t count.” I scowled at Amy. “Besides, those dates were your fault too!”

Grinning, Amy said, “And you’re welcome.”

I sighed heavily as I watched customers finish their meal and leave. Thinking about what Amy said, I couldn’t help remembering that summer before our Senior year when I made the mistake of confessing to Amy that I was really a girl. I don’t know how she managed to arrange for us to meet boys every weekend at the mall.

I let a smile loose at the memory of Ethan. Oh God was he cute! We managed to meet up with him at least three times at the mall where he took me to a movie each time and we dined eloquently at the mall Taco Bueno. And oh my God could he kiss! I confessed to Amy I thought I was in love. But like all romantic stories, this one had to come to a crashing end. My parents, specifically my dad, saw us as they came out of a different movie.

Since it would have been too personally embarrassing for him to confront me publically at the mall, Dad waited until I got home. When we parted at the mall, I kissed Ethan as if it would be the very last time. And it was.

Dad was pretty hot. He called me every name in the book and then made some up. He didn’t hit me though. He informed me in no uncertain terms I was to never dress as a girl again. Or date boys. He made me throw all my girl things away, though I later retrieved them from the dumpster and took them over to Amy’s house. He insisted I was to be a man and that was final.

With genuine concern in her voice, Amy asked, “Are you crying?”

I sniffled and ran my thumb under my eye hoping to not mess up my make-up. “I was just thinking.”

Amy frowned. “Well don’t. It looks painful. What would make you cry?”

I looked down at my hands. “I was just thinking about Ethan. I miss him.”

“Jerry seems like a nice guy.”

I sighed. “Yeah. Maybe.”

Amy grinned. “If he doesn’t work out, there’s always Alfred.”

I threw a ketchup packet at her as she laughed.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 7
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

The end of our shift was drawing near. I was exhausted. I broke the rules by taking my bear ears headband off as it was squeezing my brain. Or felt like it anyway.

Amy frowned at me again for the millionth time. “Are you going to stay grumpy forever?”

“Maybe.”

Amy sighed. “Look. If going out with Jerry is going to give you this much heartburn, just call him and cancel. You don’t really even have to give him a reason. Honestly, I really think you could use some fun. Spare me any lecture about not enjoying those dates when we were in high school.”

I readjusted my headband. “Sure. I’ll admit that was fun. We were experimenting. Doesn’t mean I want to be a girl or actually like boys.”

Amy got her face right up into mine. “Bullshit! You told me straight on you wanted to be a girl. Not too long ago you were having fond memories of your dates with Ethan!”

I started doodling on one of the order pad even though we were told not too. “Knock it off, Amy. That’s when we were kids.”

Amy grunted a laugh. “Hate to break this to you, Scotti. You’re nineteen. You’re hardly an elder statesman. This is more about your dad than you. Fuck your dad and be you!”

Shocked, I scowled at Amy. “You can’t just say that about my dad! I mean, he’s like my dad. I have to give him some respect since I wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for him!”

Amy shook her head. “That’s great. Hooray for you existing. But Scotti that’s all you’re going to do is exist. Be you, Scotti. You gotta grab that brass ring by the balls!”

I narrowed my brows at her. “I think you’re mixing metaphors. But I get it. I shouldn’t live Dad’s life. The thing is, he’s paying for it all.”

Amy laughed. “Tell Dad thank you and then go out with Jerry. What Dad doesn’t know won’t hurt him.”

I frowned at Amy. “That’s like lying to him.”

Chuckling, Amy asked, “Did you promise your dad you wouldn’t date Jerry?”

“Well, no.”

Laughing, Amy exclaimed, “Sounds good to me!”

I frowned at Amy. “You don’t seem to have a lot of ethics.”

Amy frowned back at me. “And you have too many. Look. If going out with Jerry is something you just can’t bring yourself to do, then don’t. But I think you should have some fun. You’re not marrying the guy.”

“True.”

Two girls dressed in the Pink Bear uniform entered the restaurant. Our shift had finally ended. Amy and I ran out to her car and climbed in. She drove me back to the dorm.

*          *          *

“See you tomorrow morning!” exclaimed Amy as she drove away. Exhausted, I started walking to my dorm building. I might just go straight to bed even though it’d be really early.

Just as I was about to press the elevator button, the door opened a girl stepped out. She looked at me for a moment, grinned and asked, “Do you work at Pink Bear?” I desperately wanted to say something smart-ass since I was wearing the Pink Bear uniform.

I said, “Yes. Great guess.”

She giggled and asked, “I’m trying to find a job. Are there any openings there?”

I nodded. “Apply on-line or in person.”

She pressed further. “Is it hard work?”

I chuckled despite being dead on my feet. “Depends on what you think is hard. You’re on your feet all day. You can’t sit down. Sometimes you’re so busy you can’t remember your name. You have to wear this dress and this silly headband with the ears and make-up.”

She smiled and said, “Thanks.” I shook my head as I watched her scamper away.

I stood in the elevator a full minute before I realized I hadn’t pressed the button for my floor. I’d pushed the button for the first floor, which I was already on. The door finally opened on the correct floor and I stepped out. I sighed.

“Hey Scotti!” waved Larry. He was sitting in the common area with two of his buddies.

“Hey guys. What’s up?” I asked staring down the hallway to door to my room.

Larry grinned. “We were just about to head out to go see that Tommy Kincaid movie, No Time for Samurai. Hey, would you like to go with us?”

Actually, I did want to see it. He didn’t say, but it’s probably the movie Jerry is taking me to. I said, “I would like to see that, but honestly, I’m really tired. I’ll probably do some studying and then go to bed.”

Larry laughed. “Study? Girl this is college! You’re supposed to be having fun!” Why is everyone telling me to have fun? Must be a conspiracy or something.

I flashed him a smile and said, “Thanks for inviting me. But I should study. I have a test coming up.”

Stan – I think – said, “Girls don’t like action movies. They like romance. You should ask her to see Fifty pairs of shoes – Part deux; the Shaming..”

“Oh, I loved the first movie.” I said. Amy and I saw it while I was dressed as a girl.

Looking surprised, Larry said, “I thought girls loved Tommy Kincaid!”

I shook my head. “I like Tommy Kincaid. I like Nathan Adams better, but that’s not the reason I’m declining your invitation.”

Larry frowned. “Still clinging to that studying story, eh?”

Chuckling, I said, “I do have to study!”

Larry laughed. “Okay, okay. Maybe next time.”

I nodded. “Have fun, guys.”

I managed to get into my room and lock the door. I fell on my bed and exclaimed to myself, “Boys drive me crazy!”

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 8
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I started feeling better about things. Tuesday went by almost without any hitches. I still had to deal with boys both at the restaurant and in class. But for the most part all I had to do was tell them no. And I find it funny that Amy is pissed that I get all the boys’ attention.

And somehow I managed to avoid Larry coming and going from my room. Jerry of course came for lunch and finally…finally! had the chicken fried steak.

Wednesday was going to be different. I had to get up a bit earlier to have time to put on my make-up before my morning class. I don’t have to wear make-up, but by now everyone has seen me with make-up on so now I get attention if I don’t wear any. I have Amy to thank for that. I was going to apply for that job in the school bookstore.

And because I just felt like it, I wore a skirt and blouse along with a sweater with the school’s colors. I was also wearing the high heeled boots I had borrowed from Amy. I checked my make-up in the mirror before leaving my dorm room. I made kissy faces at the mirror and immediately hated myself for doing so.

At first, I was glad to see Larry’s door closed, but when I turned around, there he was sitting at the table in the common area with a coffee cup in his hand. As I approached, he downed the remaining contents of the cup and stood up.

Larry looked at me with a smile. “You look very nice today, Scotti. Sorry I don’t have time to chat. I gotta get to class.”

I smiled back at him and asked, “You have classes?”

He pointed at me and said, “Hah.” He picked up his book bag and turned towards the elevator.

I called out, “Hey! Hold the elevator! I’m going down too.”

Larry held the door as I scurried down the hall. “Thanks,” I muttered as I entered the elevator car.

As Larry punched the button for the first floor, he asked, “So, why are you in such a hurry this morning?”

I sighed. “Calculus.”

“You must love it being in such a hurry and all,” smirked Larry

I shook my head and said with a humorless grin and said, “Not exactly.”

Larry chuckled. He then asked, “Calculus? Do you know my bud, Alfred then?” I nodded, frowning at the memory. “If you see him, can you tell him that me and Stan will be about a half hour late? We’re having game day at his dorm this week. I don’t want him to order pizza too soon,”

I nodded. “If I see him, I’ll let him know. But I need to go.”

“Thanks. Yeah, me too. Laters.”

I didn’t want to have to hurry. It was a beautiful October morning, just cool enough to warrant wearing the sweater. Looking at the other girls walking across campus it was if we’d all gotten the memo as it seems we were all dressed alike. Okay. Strike that “we”. I’m not a girl. I looked at my reflection as I passed a large building with a lot of glass on the first floor. I stopped and looked. I heaved a sigh. Maybe I am a girl.

I finally reached the building that housed my math classes. I rode the elevator up with a couple of girls. One asked where I’d gotten my boots. All three of us giggled when I just replied “Borrowed from a friend.”

As I exited the elevator, I saw a figure coming out from his office. When he turned to come down the hall towards me, I actually missed a step.

Smiling as sweetly as I could, I said, “Good morning, Mr. Nichols!”

It’s stupid. He’s a guy. It shouldn’t matter. But I melted when he smiled at me and said, “Good morning! Scotti, right?” Oh my God! He remembered my name!

I stopped walking, but kept smiling. I said, “That’s right!” What a dazzling smile he has.

Grinning, he said, “I’ll have to come by Pink Bear sometime for lunch.”

Stunned that he spoke to me, I said, “Oh, that’d be great, Mr. Nichols! You’ll love our chicken fried steak!”

Still smiling, Mr. Nichols said, “Sounds great. I gotta run.” With a quick wave, he turned and headed on down the hall. I just stood there a moment and watched him.

An annoyed female voice from behind me said, “Give it up, little girl. He doesn’t date students.”

I turned around to see a very attractive, smartly dressed teacher’s assistant, probably in her late twenties standing behind me with her arms folded.

I said, “What? I’m not interested in dating Mr. Nichols.” Okay, that was a lie.

Shaking her head, the assistant said dourly, “You’re not the first little girl to look at him with little puppy dog eyes.”

Pissed that she’s called me a little girl twice, I said, “It’s none of your business and I’m not a little girl. I’m nineteen!”

The woman laughed. With genuine amusement, she said, “That even worse! He definitely doesn’t date teens.” Still chuckling, she started walking down the hall. My cheeks burning, I hurried to my class.

*          *          *

“Ms Zicke actually came out and said you can’t date Mr. Nichols?” asked an incredulous Amy when I told her about my run-in with the assistant. “What a bitch! I mean, did you ask him out or anything? And what’s it to her, anyway?”

“I don’t know what her problem is!” I exclaimed. “All I did was say good morning to him and watched him walk away for a moment.”

Amy laughed, “Maybe it was your drooling.”

I shook my head and said seriously, “I was not drooling!”

Joanie came out of her office and said, “No drooling during business hours.” Amy laughed.

Folding my arms, I said, “I wasn’t drooling.”

Amy giggled. “I’ll be honest with you Scotti. Mr. Nichols is most definitely worth drooling over.”

*          *          *

That evening, after finishing my shift at Pink Bear, I went to our floor’s little study area in the hall to look out the window at the darkening sky and the city lights. Some movement caught my eye and I looked down. I bit my lower lip as I watched Mr. Nichols and the assistant walking to the parking lot, holding hands. They kissed and then went to their separate cars.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 9
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

Amy grinned at me when she picked me up from the salon Friday after lunch. “Nobody’s going to think you’re a boy now, that’s for sure!” The salon mostly fluffed up my hair’s volume and gave me some large curls. It looked very nice and frankly very feminine.

When she drove up to my dorm building, Amy asked, “Do you think you’re going to need any help with your make-up? Or clothes selection?”

I chuckled at her. “I think I can handle that. But you’re more than welcome to join me this afternoon.”

Grinning, Amy said, “I’ll come along. You might need my expert advice.”

I laughed.

When we arrived at my floor, we had to make our way through a gauntlet of boys. They were all gathered in the common area around the table. I don’t know what game they were playing but they were being quite loud. Their eyes were fixed on us as we navigated past them.

Larry sat up straighter and said, “Hey Scotti. I hear you have a date tonight.”

I sighed. There was no point in denying it. I’m sure Jerry probably told him. I nodded. “Yes, that’s true.”

Larry said, “You look really nice. I see you did something different with your hair.”

I smiled at Larry. “Thank you for noticing. Do you like it?”

Smiling wide, Larry said, “You look fabulous. Seriously.”

Giggling, I said, “Thank you. Speaking of dates, I need to go get ready.” I pointed down the hall. All the boys in the room were staring at me.

I caught up with Amy at the end of the hall outside my door. I unlocked my door and we hurried inside to escape all those boys’ eyeballs.

Amy exhaled. “Man, that’s just crazy, girl. Is it always like that?”

I grunted a laugh. “About six in the morning, it’s relatively boy-free.”

Pointing at the door, Amy said, “And your date is going to have run that gauntlet to pick you up?”

I nodded. “Yep. Well, he knows all those guys so he’ll be among friends. Maybe.”

Amy sighed. “Well, your guy is going to be here in about an hour. So let’s get you dressed and made up.”

I really didn’t need Amy’s help in the make-up department. She did make a couple of good suggestions on creating an evening look. We didn’t have to do my nails as they’re already done for work.

I held up a denim miniskirt. “I like the way this skirt looks on me. I’m thinking I should go with it along with this tank top and light jacket. Or would my little black dress be a better choice?”

Amy grinned. “You don’t want to waste your little black dress on a date with Jerry. I figured that dress would be your next salvo towards Mr. Nichols.”

I sighed and frowned at Amy. “Jerry might not be my boyfriend, but I still think I need to look nice for him. I can get the dress cleaned Monday.”

Grinning at me, Amy asked, “So who is your boyfriend?”

Scowling at Amy, I said, “I don’t have one.”

Laughing, Amy said, “Yet.”

“Will you stop?”

Still chuckling, Amy said, “I’d go with the miniskirt. You look hot in it and let’s face it. You’ll be lucky if Jerry even puts on a clean shirt.”

Still holding the skirt, I said, “What if he shows up in a dress shirt, sport coat and tie?”

Amy giggled. “Well, don’t put your dress away just in case.”

“He’ll be here soon, so I need to finish getting ready,” I said. “Hint, hint.”

Amy frowned. “I’ve seen you in your bra and panties before, but I can take a hint. Call me as soon as you get back. No matter what time it is. Have fun!” With a wave, Amy was out the door.

Of course she had to pass through the gauntlet of boys. I heard all the boys in the common area raising their voices and cat-calling. They weren’t saying anything mean. Just being obnoxious. They quieted down when apparently Amy made it to the elevator. They were pretty worked up. I really shouldn’t have to, but I was glad I’d have a boy to hold as I walked through that mob later.

I put in large hoop earrings I’d borrowed from Amy. I need to get my own pair. I love the way the silver color sparkles through my hair and the way they feel against my neck.

Finally dressed and everything tucked securely away, I looked at the attractive young woman looking back at me in the mirror. In a few minutes, that pretty woman was going to be picked up by a boy for a date. She’s the date. She’s the one being treated to a meal and a movie. As she smiled nervously back at me, what are her expectations? And how do her expectations square with the boy who is picking her up? From the look on her face, she’s clearly concerned about what exactly are the boy’s expectations. That woman looks worried. That woman is me.

There was a sudden rise in the volume of all the boys in the common area. Almost like cheering. There was a knock on my door. In the mirror I watched as my dad approached the pretty woman and said, “Son. I expect you to be a man!”

The woman frowned and said, “Oh fuck off!”

Another knock on the door jarred me back to reality. I got up. I checked my make-up for the zillionth time. I smoothed my skirt that didn’t need smoothing. I took a deep breath. And I finally opened the door.

“Hi Scotti,” said Jerry, wearing a huge grin. I was impressed. He had showered. Shaved recently. He’d brushed his hair. He wore a nice shirt incongruently with a black, leather motorcycle jacket and jeans that had no tears or holes. He just stared at me for a few moments and said, “You look amazing.”

I smiled back at Jerry, amused by the boy standing in front of me. “Thank you Jerry. You look… nice.”

His grin got bigger and then he suddenly scowled. “Ah shit!” He hit the wall.

Feeling more than a little concerned, I asked as I took a step back, “What’s wrong?” I touched the front of my skirt. Did something fall out?

Sounding irritated he groaned, “I forgot to buy you flowers!”

I relaxed, relieved that I wasn’t about to die, I sighed, “That’s okay. You don’t have to buy me flowers.”

I had retreated to be back on the other side of the door frame. Jerry shook his head. “Dammit! I wanted to impress you!”

I waved my hand dismissively. “It’s okay. Really.” Am I in danger or is he just a goofball?

He calmed down and asked, “What is your favorite flower, anyway?”

I smiled weakly at Jerry and said, “Pink roses, actually.” Something told me that a lot of pink roses were going to be in my future.

Grinning again, Jerry said, “I’ll make a mental note of that. Are you ready to go?”

“Let me get my purse and jacket,” I said stepping back into my room for a moment. I smiled again at Jerry and announced, “I’m ready.”

Jerry took my hand and started leading me down the hall. A cheer went up from the boys playing some game in the common area. They all raised their soda cans in salute to Jerry. Larry shouted, “My hero!” I never wanted to leave someplace so bad in my life. As we stepped inside the elevator, Jerry turned and bowed.

As Jerry led me briskly across the parking lot to his car, he turned excitedly to me and exclaimed, “You’re going to love Gladstone’s.” Gladstone’s was the expensive, hoity-toity restaurant in town. That meant that Jerry was dropping some serious cash on this date with me. He continued, “They have great chicken fried steak there!”

I stopped walking and his hand pulled free. I said, “Are you serious?”

Jerry laughed. “Ha ha. Got you! I don’t know what they have there. But you’re always pushing chicken fried steak at the Bear.”

As I opened the passenger door to his car, I said, “Remind me to kill you later.”

Jerry grinned. “Did you know you’re beautiful when you’re bitchy?” Is this how the evening’s going to go?

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 10
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

Still wearing a goofy grin as he started his car, Jerry said, “You know, Gladstone’s is kinda expensive. I was thinking about going to Pink Bear for dinner.”

I glared at him and then opened the passenger door and slipped a leg out. “I knew this was a mistake,” I grumbled.

Jerry touched my arm. He didn’t grab it. “Scotti. That was a joke. You know I’m a kidder.”

Sitting halfway out of his car, I turned to glare at him. “Is that all I am to you? A joke? You embarrassed me in front of all those other guys, acting like the conquering hero. Am I a trophy?”

His grin faded, Jerry pleaded, “Scotti. Please don’t leave. Look. I’m sorry. When I get nervous I tend to mask it by acting goofy. I didn’t mean to offend you. I should have told Larry to knock it off.”

Not smiling, I said, “Yes, you should have.”

Looking down at the car’s floorboard, Jerry said, “Can you forgive me? I really didn’t mean to embarrass you. I mean, I’m just a goofball. I really would love to spend some time with you. Let’s go to a movie.”

I sighed. “Okay. What movie?”

Jerry shrugged with a sheepish look. “I know how you girls love romance stories so I was planning to take you to see Fifty pairs of shoes – Part deux; the Shaming. I admit, I never saw the first one.”

I smiled slightly at Jerry. “You know what I’d really like to see? No Time for Samurai.”

A goofy grin suddenly covered Jerry’s face. “Scotti, you are the perfect girl.”

As we started to leave the dormitory’s parking lot, I thought, yeah. The perfect girl is a boy.

I’m surprised. Jerry kept his hands to himself as we drove to the Cineplex.

He turned to look at me. He asked, “Do you have a favorite Tommy Kincaid movie?”

I grinned. “That’s easy. The Sands of Acapulco. I have to say though, even before the bedroom scene, I had guessed the girl was the Sino-Canuck Alliance spy.”

Jerry chuckled as he shook his head. “One of my last girlfriends said the same thing. I just thought the actress had great tits.”

Laughing, I said, “That’s all guys think about, isn’t it?” I took a deep breath. And I don’t have any tits.

Sounding annoyed, Jerry said, “That’s so annoying. It just isn’t true.”

Squinting out his windshield, Jerry muttered, “Jeez. This place is jumping tonight.”

I said, “Yeah. It must be date night or something.”

Jerry found a parking space a little further away from the entrance than either of us would have liked. After we got out of the car, he took my hand and we began the trek to the front door.

Despite the Cineplex being packed, there were several ticket kiosks with no mob around them. We walked up to one.

Jerry said, “First things first. Let’s make sure our movie is even still available.” He started punching up the movies playing. After hmmming a few times, Jerry announced. “The chick flick is almost sold out. Looks like we can get the next showing of the Kincaid flick and still have time to get popcorn.”

I chuckled, “Looks like most of the guys are trying to get their girlfriends into a romantic mood.”

As he finished purchasing our movie tickets, Jerry grunted, “Yeah. I don’t care about that.”

I laughed. “Oh really?”

Looking worried, Jerry said, “I can change this if you’d rather see the chick flick. There are a few seats left.”

I waved my hand dismissively. “No, no. I’m in the mood for action and adventure.”

He gave me a wry grin and wiggled his eyebrows. “Maybe we should have found a dark place to park and stayed in my car.”

I smirked, “I’m not sure which would provide more laughs.” I honestly didn’t want to get into a make-out session with Jerry. He is a boy after all.

“Hey!” exclaimed Jerry. “Was I just insulted? Come on. Let’s get in the popcorn line. The movie starts soon.”

A staggering twenty-five minutes later, we were just taking our seats as the previews began. Jerry said, “Oh good. We didn’t miss he logos.” I gave him a weird look. “It’s the best part of the movie!” He grinned goofily.

“I’ll just pretend I don’t know you.” I said, trying to get a little distance from him. He put his arm around my shoulder anyway.

As the opening scene started to unfold, I felt sniffing in my hair. “Your hair smells so nice!”

I tried to pull my head away a little bit. “Thanks. I take it off and machine wash it every other night.” Jerry looked momentarily confused.

The movie started right off with a car chase and gun fight. I think Jerry and I both enjoyed the soundtrack by a Japanese girl band. A scene shift showed a cityscape with the label “Tokyo” but it looked strangely more like Los Angeles.

The movie was actually quite exciting. I rested my head on Jerry’s shoulder and he pulled me closer to him. I had snuggled up into Jerry shoulder and got comfy. During a slow scene, Jerry tilted his head towards me and before I knew it. His lips were pressing against mine.

Oh my God! He was kissing me! A boy was kissing me. His hand felt around for my non-existent tits. This wasn’t a little friendly kiss like before. This was a real kiss. It wasn’t the best kiss I’ve ever received from a boy. But it’s better than I expected from Jerry. Does this kiss alter our relationship? Do we have a relationship? All things considered, I should have expected it.

I closed my eyes and let his soft, warm lips gently caress mine. Slowly we separated. I gulped in a breath of air. I grinned dopily at him. In the back of my mind rang the words, “Don’t fall in love!”

He put his arms around me and drew me in for another kiss. I hoped nothing important to the movie was happening as I was definitely going to miss it.

The house lights came on and bathed us in light. I looked up from our embrace. I squinted at the now blank screen. I wondered how much of the movie I missed. I grinned at Jerry. Did I care?

Jerry pulled his head away. “We should probably go. The cleanup crew is waiting on us to leave.”

“I don’t care,” I said as I tried to find his lips.

Chuckling, he pushed me away slightly. “Down girl. I’m hungry. Let’s go get dinner.” Jerry stood up and then helped me stand on shaky legs. He took my hand and led me out to the lobby.

I was struck with a sudden thought. My face must be a mess. To Jerry, I said, “I need to go to the ladies room. I’ll be right back.”

Jerry shook his head. “I guess I’ll just wait here.” He sat down on an empty chair.

I shook my head as I looked at my reflection in the restroom mirror. My face was indeed a mess. What the hell was I doing? Jerry’s not that cute. Am I that starved for attention?

As I was quickly cleaning my face, a middle-aged woman came out of one of the stalls. She looked over at me and smiled knowingly. “Aw, to be young again,” she said softly. I sighed and re-applied my make-up. If he was just going to take me back to the dorm, I wouldn’t bother. But the next stop was a fancy restaurant.

Jerry frowned at me when I walked up to him and brightly announced, “I’m ready.”

As he stood up and took my hand, he said, “I hope they’re still open.” He then led me out to his car.

As he strapped me into the passenger seat of his car, Jerry studied me a moment. I opened one eye to look at him. He grinned and said, “You want me to just take you back home? I seem to have been too much man for you!” He laughed. I frowned and hit his leg with my purse. Which was good because for a minute I thought I’d lost it.

I shook my head. “No I’m fine. I’m a bit hungry. Tommy Kincaid is such an intense actor.”

Jerry smirked. “Is that what it is? Well, get your taste buds fired up. Gladstone’s not that far away.” He ran around the front of his car and jumped into the driver’s seat. He hit the ignition and the engine roared to life.

A few moments later, Jerry drove his car into a parking spot at Gladstone’s restaurant. The parking lot was pretty full. Well, it was a Friday night.

As he turned his car off, Jerry exclaimed, “Wow. This is pretty lucky to get so close to the entrance.”

I looked up and frowned “Are you handicapped?”

Jerry looked over at me. “No. Are you?”

“Then move your car!”

Jerry grunted a laugh when he looked up and saw the blue sign. “Who cares? Nobody pays attention to these.”

“Just move your car.” I folded my arms.

Jerry sighed. “You have a lot of hang-ups.” He found another parking spot just a little further away. He looked over at me and asked, “Happy?”

I nodded and started to exit his car.

As we entered, there was a counter with a young woman greeting everyone. She looked at us and brightly asked, “How many?”

Jerry held his hand out and began to count on his fingers. I didn’t know if he was joking or what, so I just said, “Two.”

Jerry frowned. “I would have gotten there eventually.”

The young woman said, “Yes, ma’am. The wait is about half an hour. What is your cell phone number so we can text you when your table is ready.”

We sat down on a bench in the waiting are between a little girl playing some game on her phone and a snot-nosed brat jumping up and down watching the TV that was showing some football game.

Squeezed together, his hands on his lap, Jerry grinned at me and said, “This is great, huh?”

With a weak smile, I muttered, “Just peachy.”

“We would have to have to wait no matter where we went.”

I nodded agreement.

A little over a half hour wait, my phone buzzed announcing our table was ready. I scowled at the little brat who made our wait time miserable. Jerry chuckled, “He’s definitely a poster-boy for birth control.”

I looked over the menu after we were seated. I said, “I’ve heard their baked salmon is very good.”

Jerry chuckled. “I thought for sure you’d want chicken fried steak. Order whatever you want.”

I looked around the menu at Jerry. “I’m really hungry. I think I’ll get the beef wellington.” It was the most expensive item on the menu.

Jerry didn’t even look up. “I’m ordering you a salad.”

I frowned. “Actually I want the baked salmon.”

Jerry said, “Hand me your menu. I don’t want you changing your mind.”

I folded my menu and held it out for him. “I was joking!” He laughed. I stuck my tongue out at him.

After the waiter left with our order, Jerry leaned forward and picked up my hand with both his hands and then he just stared at me.

He sighed and said, “You probably hear this all the time, but Scotti, you really are one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen. You know. Like in person and all. I’m serious. You’re amazing.” He kissed my fingers.

I felt my cheeks flush. “Thank you for saying that. I know it’s not really true.”

Jerry still clasped my hands. “It is true. You’re gorgeous.” He paused a moment. “Sorry. I don’t mean to embarrass you.”

Feeling my cheeks getting hot, I said, “Let’s talk about something else.”

Still holding my hands, Jerry grinned and said, “Sure. Let’s see. Um, what’s your favorite class?”

I smiled back at him. “Oh, that’s easy Programming in Peal. I think it’s fun.”

Jerry nodded. “That’s cool. What’s your least favorite?”

I laughed. “That’s easy. Calculus. I hate math.”

Looking serious, Jerry asked, “Who’s your instructor? I have Mr. Nichols and he explains everything pretty well.”

I sat up straight. “You have Mr. Nichols for Calculus? I wish I did! How is he?”

Jerry shrugged. “He’s cool, I guess. There’re a lot of girls in his class.”

“I bet!” I chuckled.

When the food was brought out, we didn’t talk much while we ate. My baked salmon and salad was wonderful. Jerry got a steak and surprised me when he got a baked potato. I thought he was strictly a fries kinda guy.

Finally, I set my fork down and smiled at Jerry. “That was great, Jerry. Thank you so much for inviting me.”

Jerry belched. “Oh, you’re very welcome. I like nothing better than to take a pretty lady out to dinner.”

Should I feel guilty about this? I’m hardly a lady, but I let him spend money on me for a movie and an expensive dinner. No matter how hard he tries to court me, he’s not going to win me. Still, he invited me. And further still, I should have just said no.

“Penny for your thoughts!” laughed Jerry. “Today, it’s more like a dollar.”

Embarrassed, I said, “Sorry. I was just thinking.”

Jerry laughed, “Well don’t! It looks painful.”

With a wry smile, I said, “You have no idea.”

Jerry patted his stomach. “We’ll have to try this place again, sometime.”

I just nodded slightly. Is he asking me out again?

I looked at my phone and genuinely startled, I said, “We should probably go. I open tomorrow.” Getting up at 6:30 to get to work by 7:45 is no way to start a weekend.

Jerry looked at his phone. “I didn’t know it was getting late.” He snapped his fingers and exclaimed, “Garçon!”

An annoyed looking waiter stepped up to the table. “Sir?”

Jerry waved his hand. “Check please, my good man.” What the hell is he doing?

When the waiter walked away to get the check, I said, “Maybe we should wait a while before returning.”

Jerry grinned. “Maybe you’re right. The service wasn’t up to par. You gotta show the wait staff who’s the boss.”

Jerry held my hand as he led me back to his car. He forgot where he parked it and I had to point to it. He then hit the door lock button so he could hear the beep and see the headlights flash.

Except for lightly tickling my leg, there wasn’t much conversation on the way back to my dorm. He drove into a parking spot at my dormitory. So he wants to park, I said to myself. I can’t say I missed the whole coming home to angry parents because of a missed curfew. I’m not a girl and didn’t get to have real dates. But I definitely wanted a good night kiss from him.

He leaned back and stretched his arm behind me. “Scotti, thanks again for going out with me tonight. I really enjoyed being with you,” He started twirling my hair.

I smiled. “Thanks for inviting me, Jerry. I had a great time.” Okay, now kiss me already.

He leaned in slowly and just as our lips were about to make contact, there was a loud noise like someone slapping the hood of his car. It startled both of us. Jerry looked around.

“Larry. What the hell?” Jerry sounded deeply annoyed.

Larry exclaimed, “Dude! We didn’t think you were ever going to come back. Alfred needs a lift back to his dorm.” Alfred waved at us.

Jerry grumbled, “Are his legs broken? There used to be this thing called walking.”

Larry shook his head. “Remember the little memo the college administration put out warning about walking across campus alone at night?”

“You can call security and they’ll give you a ride in their golf cart,” I said as I folded my arms.

Alfred said, “I didn’t want that on my record.”

Jerry leaned over and kissed my cheek. “We’re getting nowhere here. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

I nodded and opened the passenger door. I looked back at Jerry. “Good night. Thanks for the good time.” I scowled at Larry as I got out of Jerry’s car.

Alfred jumped into Jerry’s car. “Hey thanks, Dude. You’re a life saver.”

As I started to walk towards the dorm building, Larry reached out and took my hand. “I’ll walk you to your room.”

I jerked my hand away. “I think I can manage. I can’t believe you’d do this.” I hurried off.

Larry called out, “Babe, wait! What’s wrong?”

The door closed behind me, cutting him off.

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 11
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

It was such a pain getting up. I hate having to open at Pink Bear. I don’t even have to get up this early to get to my first class. I’d gotten a rare chastising the day before by Joanie for looking like I’d applied my make-up with a broom. I was tired that morning from being up late and studying.

I frowned at my reflection after I finished my eye liner. I should have taken that assistant job at the library. They don’t care about eye liner. Or dresses. I could have stayed a boy. I wouldn’t have had that date with Jerry.

I smiled at my reflection. If I was being honest with myself, I enjoyed our date. So what if Jerry’s a goofball? And why did Larry feel the need to ruin it? Ack! I checked the time on my phone. Amy would be here soon to pick me up and I’m not finished with my make-up.

I rushed, but not too much. I was just putting in my Pink Bear earrings when my phone rang. The caller ID said it was Amy. I punched the answer button and shouted, “I’m coming!”

I heard Amy giggle. “Well, good morning to you too!”

I shook my head. Leaving the phone lying on my desk, I said, “Sorry. I’ll be down in a minute.” I disconnected the call. I leaned into the mirror and checked my make-up. I turned my head back and forth to check my hair and before opening my room door, I smoothed down my dress.

“Hey babe! Ya got a minute?” Larry was waiting to ambush me from the common area.

I scowled at Larry. “I’m in a hurry and I’m not your babe.”

Larry chuckled, “Babe. You’re everybody’s babe. But about last night…”

Pointing at his chest as I tried to hurry past him, “You know, Larry. That was low even for you. Ambushing us like that. You could have taken your friend. You didn’t need Jerry’s car.”

“My car was broken down…” was all I heard when the elevator door closed. Does he really expect me to believe that?

As I trotted out of the dormitory building, Amy stuck her head out of the car window and shouted, “We’re going to be late!”

As I got inside her car and started to close the passenger door, I said, “Just run a few red lights like you usually do. We’ll be fine.”

We arrived with many seconds to spare. Amy was getting the cash registers ready while walked slowly and I mean slowly, to unlock the front door. There was already a line forming outside the door. I turned around to look through the door way to the kitchen. I wondered if they ever went home. The kitchen crew was all ready to go.

As I opened the front door, I said, “Good morning everyone! Welcome to Pink Bear!”

The first boy through the door looked at me and grinned. “Do you have a boyfriend?”

I frowned at him and said, “I don’t want to date you.”

He looked confused for a moment. He asked, “Well, can I have a jumbo breakfast burrito?”

I laughed. “That we can do.” I turned to hurry to get back behind the counter.

Amy shook her head at me. “Will you stop flirting with the customers?”

“I’m not doing anything!” I exclaimed as I rang up two more breakfast burritos.

As she was picking up the new tickets, Joanie leaned in to Amy said, “Our business has doubled since hiring Scotti. We’re even getting more teachers coming in.”

I stuck my tongue out at Amy.

Amy just rolled her eyes.

We both relaxed after the breakfast rush finally subsided.

Amy looked at me long and hard. Pointing at me, she said, “You’ve changed, Scotti. When did you become so damn boy crazy? You flirt with everything in pants.”

I frowned at Amy. “Cut it out, girl. I don’t flirt. It’s getting old, actually. I smile and try to engage the customer. It’s customer service one oh one. I’m not flirting. I’m just trying to be nice. Like I’ve said before. You should try it.”

Sticking her tongue out at me, Amy complained, “I AM nice, dammit! Stop being so damned pretty!”

I scowled at Amy. “I can’t help that! Do you really think I’m pretty?”

Amy frowned. “You’re gorgeous. Please stop. All the cute guys want to talk to you.”

“That’s my fault?” I asked, feeling being picked on. “I’m not even interested in guys. You can have all of them!”

We stood in the empty restaurant in silence, waiting for the lunch crowd to arrive. I looked over at Amy and asked, “Do you really think I’m gorgeous?” She groaned and rolled her eyes at me. I just grinned at her.

I poked Amy in the shoulder and said, “Look. I’m going to live up to my daddy’s expectations. After graduating, I’m going to settle down with a pretty girl, and have our two point eight children, two cars, a white picket fence and…”

Four boys entered Pink Bear. Four gorgeous specimens of perfect maleness. The first was Don Armstrong who was captain of the football team, tall, muscular, and did I mention gorgeous?

I froze in mid-sentence. Whatever I was going to say instantly forgotten. I just stared. I whispered to myself, “He’s gorgeous.”

Smirking, Amy pushed on my arm, “Okay, girlie. Make yourself scarce. You said I could have all of them.”

“Shut up…” I growled. Grinning broadly at Don, I asked, “How may I help you, sir?”

Don smiled at me with glorious, perfect white teeth. Leaning on the counter with his face close to mine, he said, “You know, I was told that there’s a place with the prettiest girls and the best chicken fried steak. Could this be it, Ace?”

Ace, who also leaned on the counter and also had chiseled handsomeness, nodded. “I do believe this is the place, Donny.”

Still grinning at me, Don said, “I think you’re right. So, miss. I think I’ll have an order of chicken fried steak with a side of you.”

Embarrassed, I felt my cheeks turn bright red. “Anything to drink?”

Don leaned in closer. “Yeah. Your eyes.”

Amy groaned, “Oh brother.”

Embarrassed all to hell, I asked, “Small, medium or large?”

Don grinned. “Yes.”

I heard Amy say, “So, Ace. What would you like?”

Ace grinned. “I’d like to know what time you get off work.”

I was nervous as hell and shaking slightly. I was beside myself. “D… does this complete your order?” I studied my order form. I knew I’d lose it if I dared to look at his beautiful brown eyes.

Feeling his warm breath on my cheek, Don said, “Just one more thing. Are you free Saturday night?”

I looked up at him and stuttered, “I… I… I…”

Amy grunted. “Oh, save us all some time and just say yes.”

“I… I… I…”

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 12
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I took a deep breath. Why are boys so interested in me? They didn’t until I changed my hair. Does that even make sense? Dad won’t approve. I looked at Don. What’s wrong with me? He’s gorgeous. I should just say no. That’s what Dad would want.

Joanie looked through the door. “Scotti, I don’t have you down for anything this coming Saturday.”

Deeply annoyed at Joanie, I said with a weak smile, “Well, it would seem I am free next Saturday.”

Don grinned and patted my hand. Why are boys always touching me? He exclaimed, “That’s great, Scotti! The team and the cheerleaders always have an after game party, regardless of results. It’s always a blast. I expect that you will show up for the game as well.”

I hate football. I gave Don a big smile. “Oh, I wouldn’t miss it for anything! The game is here, right? Okay. I’ll be there.”

Don leaned in ever closer. “That’s great! But you know what I was just thinking?”

I laughed nervously and asked, “What were you just thinking?”

Sliding a finger down my nose, Don said, “The game is a whole, entire week away. Wednesday is late movie day. I can pick you up at eleven after you get off work.”

This is getting worse and worse. I asked, “What movie?”

Don laughed. “Who cares? I’ll see you at eleven on Wednesday.”

I giggled and looked over at Amy and gave two thumbs up that I didn’t really feel. “Bonus!”

Amy scowled at me. “You got two dates? That’s not fair!”

Don chuckled as he picked up his chicken fried steak and sat down to eat lunch with his hunky friends. How could there be four gorgeous guys on one football team? I mentally slapped myself. And why is it I even care? I sighed heavily as I stared wistfully at Don.

Amy chuckled. “Unless you rent them I’m guessing daddy can just forget about his two point eight grandchildren.”

I turned to frown at Amy. “It’s just a date.”

Amy shook her head and held up two fingers. “Two. Two dates. One more and it’s marriage city.”

I shook my head at Amy.”Don’t be ridiculous!” On the back of an order pad, I idly wrote “Mrs. Don Armstrong… Scotti Armstrong… Mr. and Mrs. Don Armstrong…”

Amy stepped towards me and reached out for the pad. “Whatcha doing?”

I quickly flipped the pad over. “Nothing.”

Amy reached for the pad again. “If it’s nothing, let’s see it.”

I tossed the pad into a trash can. “I said it’s not nothing.”

Amy frowned. “That means it’s something! Gimme!”

Joanie stepped out of her office. “Children! You two need to stop!” She looked at me and held out her hand. “Those pads cost money. Hand it over.”

I pulled the pad from the trash can and handed it to Joanie. As she took it, she said, “Thanks.” She then squinted at the back side and said, “Mrs. Don Armstrong? Who’s that?”

Amy burst out laughing so hard she had tears in her eyes.

*          *          *

I really must be losing my mind. Dad was pretty clear about his expectations about me. You don’t have to dress up for classes at the university. So despite those two things, why am I wearing a little black dress and applying make-up? I even got up early to do this. Dad would not approve.

But today’s my Calculus class, which is next to Mr. Nichols’ office. I need to see a shrink. I have not one but two dates with the hottest football player and the university’s most eligible bachelor and I’m dressing to snag the attention of a teacher that doesn’t pay me any attention.

And all this after being mercilessly ribbed on the way back to my dorm by Amy because my choice of doodles.

I stood up and checked myself out in my mirror. I posed a few times. I’ve dressed up as a girl a lot lately and dating a few boys. Am I stuck like this? I shrugged.

I stepped quietly out of my dorm room, hoping to not disturb Larry. I sighed. It was wasted effort. He was sitting on the common area eating cornflakes. He looked up at me and issued a low whistle.

“Looking good, Scotti! What’s with the threads?” Larry asked as I started to walk past him.

Shrugging, I said, “I just felt like dressing up. I’m allowed, aren’t I?”

Larry grinned. “Oh, no argument from me!”

I grinned at Larry. “It wouldn’t hurt you any to up your game. A clean t-shirt will go a long way. I need to go.”

Larry exclaimed, “Hey! This was a clean t-shirt three days ago.” The elevator door closing cut off anything else he had to say.

Walking across the grass areas on the campus in heels always slows me down some, but I finally arrived on the math floor of the science building. Mr. Nichols’ door was open so I hoped I could stop by and say hello.

As I approached, I heard a loud “fwump” sound and then Mr. Nichols shouting “Dammit!” Heels clicking, I hurried to his open door and looked inside.

I poked my head into his office and sincerely asked, “Mr. Nichols? Is everything okay in here?” There were a lot of files and reports scattered over the floor along with Mr. Nichols.

He looked up at me and said, “Oh, hello there, Scotti. I seem to live by Murphy’s Law. I’m about to be late for a meeting and I knock all these files to the floor.”

Making sure I didn’t expose my panties, I knelt beside him in his office. “Don’t you just hate that? I’ll help you pick them up. Any particular order?”

Shuffling some papers together, Mr. Nichols said, “Thank you so much, Scotti. Don’t worry about the order just yet. I can do that later. You’ll make a great executive assistant one day.”

I just smiled and said, “Thank you!” I’m hoping to be a software architect, but I’d be happy to sit on his lap and take down dictation.

A moment later, we were getting back on our feet. Thankfully, I hadn’t gotten any dirt on my dress. Mr. Nichols grinned at me as we set the last stack of papers on top of the table in his office. “That was a great job, Scotti. You know, there is an opening for a student office assistant in the math department. If you’re interested, it might be a good opportunity for you.” Oh, wouldn’t that be wonderful to be his assistant?

He put a few reports into his brief case. “Well, I have a meeting to get to. Thanks again Scotti for your help.” He hurried off down the hall.

Smiling to myself and feeling happy to have been some assistance I turned to go to my class. I took one step and stopped. Ms. Zicke was standing in my way, her arms folded and she was tapping her foot.

“Little girl, if I have to tell you one more time to stop stalking my fiancée, I will be going to your dean. Am I making myself clear?”

I gave her a mock salute. “Yes, ma’am. Very clear.” I walked past her to get to my class.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 13
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

Frowning, Amy placed her palm on my cheek in a slow-motion bitch slap. “Are you stupid?” she exclaimed. I had just told her about my experience that morning after we arrived at the Pink Bear for the evening shift.

I lifted my shoulder to try to fend her off. “Don’t touch me!”

Scowling at me, Amy snarled. “What would you have done if she’d hauled your little ass into the dean’s office? It says right in the student hand book that instructors are off-limits to students. It also says in the instructor’s guide book that students are off-limits. You could get Mr. Nichols in trouble with your shenanigans. Cool it, girl!”

I waved my arms in surrender. “Okay! Okay. I’ll stop. I can’t help it. There’s just something about him. You have to admit he’s gorgeous.”

Amy folded her arms. “Yes. He’s gorgeous AND taken! Lay off him! I’m mean, sheesh, girl! One moment you’re telling me you have no interest in boys, you plan to follow your dad’s dream, but you chase Mr. Nichols, AFTER you get not one, but two dates with the biggest man on campus! Are you insane??”

I folded my arms on the counter top and then rested my head on my arms. I stared blankly out the front windows of the restaurant. I sighed heavily. “I must be.”

Amy rested on her elbows next to me. “Are you gonna call Don and tell him you have to cancel your dates so you can pursue your daddy’s dream of having two point eight children and a white picket fence?”

I scowled at Amy. “What? Are you nuts?”

Amy joined me in blankly staring out the front windows. “When does Daddy find out?”

I shrugged. “I dunno. Hopefully not for a while.” I looked over at Amy. “So. Should I apply for the assistants job?”

Amy frowned at me. “No.”

I just chuckled.

*          *          *

“Will you hurry it up in there? Joanie wants to lock up.”

I didn’t have time to go back t my dorm and change out of my uniform before Don would come by and pick me up for our movie date. I was in the grimy restroom doing my make-up. I had already changed into a tank top and a black miniskirt.

“Hold on!” I exclaimed. “I’m almost done. Rome wasn’t built in a day, you know.”

“Neither was your face, apparently,” grumbled Amy.

I dropped my lipstick into my purse. “I’m done. You didn’t have to wait, Amy. You could have left twenty minutes ago.”

Amy rolled her eyes. “Yeah right. And if he doesn’t show up, then what would you do?”

“I’d walk,” I said as I double-checked my make-up.

“That’s a long dangerous walk at this hour,” said Amy grimly.

“I appreciate you caring.” I said as I exited the restroom.

As we headed out the door so we could wait outside so Joanie could lock up her business, Amy said, “I don’t want you getting kidnapped or anything. That’s my skirt and I want it back.”

As Joanie stepped out of Pink Bear and locked the door, she looked over at me and said, “Have fun on your date, Scotti. He’s quite the hunk.”

“A hunk and a half,” said Amy with a frown.

A few minutes after Joanie had driven away, another car drove up into the parking lot. Behind the wheel waved Don. I smiled and started walking to his car. I turned to Amy and said, “See ya tomorrow!”

As I slid into the passenger seat, Don grinned and said, “Hey, babe! You look good!”

I smiled at him and cooed, “Hi Don. And thank you!”

As he backed his car out of the parking lot, he said, “Just to give you fair warning in case you want to back out, I found out that the late movie this time is that horror movie from a few years ago called. The Sausalito Brain and Sausage Factory. It’s supposed to be very good, but also pretty gruesome. I know some girls get kinda squeamish at stuff like that.”

I laughed. “I’m usually good with horror movies. I managed to sit through last year’s They Put My Cat’s Brain into a Combat Robot.”

Don chuckled. “That was actually pretty funny.”

The movie was at one of the older theaters where you buy your ticket from a human being in a ticket booth. How gauche, right?

The theater lobby was filled with college students as Don led me by the hand to the snackbar line. We got our drinks and a snack. I got popcorn and Don got nachos with extra extra cheese. I think it had chips in it.

As soon as we sat down, Don had his arm around my shoulders. I didn’t mind. I loved his scent as I snuggled up into him.

Maybe it was my imagination, but many of the girls who were there with their dates looked as if they were a bit jealous when they looked at me being held by Don. Even a few boys looked jealous. I smirked and snuggled closer.

After about ten minutes of logos, the movie opened with a tranquil suburban scene of freshly mowed lawns and trees. And then Bam! A stupid jump scare. It wasn’t even something scary, but I jumped with a squeal like many of the other girls in the theater. I even spilled some of my popcorn. Don laughed. “Horror movies are always more fun when you bring a girl,” he whispered. The scare pissed me off actually.

That wasn’t the last jump scare but at least the others actually had something scary. Don nuzzled my neck a few times. I don’t think my giggling discouraged him any. It didn’t surprise me when it happened. I’d been expecting him to do it. Right after telling me I smelled pretty, his lips were suddenly pressing softly into mine. I closed my eyes and leaned into his kiss. I moaned softly. Don really knows how to kiss.

We both lost interest in the movie as he pulled me closer to him and we kissed. Putting his hand behind my head and holding me close, we were still kissing when the house lights came on. Three members of the clean-up were standing and glaring at us.

A boy said, “Sir? Ma’am? We need to clean up the auditorium.”

Mid-kiss, I waved dismissively. “Okay. But try to keep the noise down.” I started giggling. The boy looked really pissed.

Don pulled his head back from me and grinned. “You get the giggles when you’re up late. That’s good to know.” He stood up and tugged on my hand. “Come on babe. I think they want us to leave.”

I pouted. “So soon? The party just started!” I started giggling uncontrollably. I was in a mood and I really don’t know why. I’ve been up late before. But I’ve never been up late kissing Mr. Gorgeous though.

As I was led to Don’s car, holding my hand, he asked, “Did you like the movie?”

I nodded. “It was better than I was expecting. And it had some really scary parts!”

Don chuckled. “You did scream several times. I enjoyed it. Some parts were just gross like the pot of boiling brains.”

“Yeah, that was gross.” I agreed.

Don kissed me and then helped me get into his car. The drive to my dorm building was mostly in silence. He held my hand the whole way.

After he drove into a parking spot, he looked over at me and said, “Let me walk you to your room.”

I smiled at him. “Sure, Donnie.” He took my hand and held it all the way up the elevator. When the elevator opened on my floor, I was surprised to see Larry in the common area, several books spread on the table in front of him.

As we walked up to Larry, Don said, “Hey, Lar. Burning the midnight oil?”

Larry didn’t even glance up. “Oh, hey, Armstrong. Late date? Oh… hey Scotti. You’re dating Armstrong here?”

I frowned at Larry. “Is that okay?”

Larry laughed. “Of course! I need to get back to this. See you guys.” Don slid his hand down to my ass.

We stopped at my door. I put my arms around his neck. “Thanks for the movie, Donnie. I really had a good time tonight.” He bent his head down and kissed me.

Don slid his fingers down my cheek. He smiled at me. “Me too, babe. You’re really beautiful and a lot of fun. I guess I’ll see on Saturday. I’ll look for you at the game.” He then pressed his lips against mine. I just melted. He gave my butt a pat and then he left.

I leaned against my door with my eyes closed for a few moments and just smiled.

From the common room, Larry said, “That looked pretty serious, Scotti. Is it?”

I opened my door and looked down the hall way to Larry. I grinned and said, “Maybe.” I giggled as I went into my room.

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 14
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

“Can you wipe that stupid grin off your face?” snarled Amy while we waited for a customer. “Because of your smile, I had to help you apply your lipstick.”

I shook my head at her. “Can I help it if thinking of last night keeps making me smile?”

Amy grunted. “You like him that much? Do you think he could be the one?”

I smiled wryly. “Oh, don’t I wish! But I’m sure if we keep dating, he’s going to want sex eventually.”

“Why do you think that?” asked Amy.

I frowned at her. “Because he’s a guy. I’m not equipped for that.”

Amy shrugged. “You never know. He might not care.”

Frowning, I said, “I doubt that. Still, I plan to keep seeing him until things get uncomfortable. From what I’ve heard, he doesn’t stick with one girl very long. My grandma always said, ‘Make hay while the sun shines.’”

Amy chuckled. “My grandma always said, ‘Strike while the iron is hot.’”

Joanie stepped out of her office and said, “My granny always said, ‘Quit your yakking and get back to work.’”

*          *          *

“Oh, hey, Ocean!” I greeted the girl leaning too far back in her chair next to two very loaded washing machines.

“Hey Scotti. Long time no see.” The short-haired blonde grinned as she gave me a short wave. She was dressed in jeans and a Mario Brothers t-shirt.

I set my laundry bag on the floor next to a washing machine near Ocean. “Yeah. I was worried you’d dropped out or something.”

Shaking her head, she said, “Nah. I’m serious about my art degree. In fact, I’ve been accepted at a couple big art colleges. I just need to pick. But girl, look at you. I see you dropped that tomboy look and I’ve been hearing rumors about you.”

As I stuffed my clothes into the washer, I said, “Rumors? About me? Really?”

Grinning, Ocean said, “For starters I heard you managed to snag the biggest man on campus, Don Armstrong.”

Giggling, I said, “Well, that’s no rumor. We’re dating. At least for now.”

Giving me a thumbs’ up, she said, “Good job. But be careful. He hops from girl to girl.”

I frowned. “Yeah, I know. But as my grandma always said, ‘Make hay while the sun shines.’”

Ocean laughed. “That’s not all I’ve heard though.”

I closed the lid and started the washing machine. “Oh? What else?”

Ocean raised her eyebrow. “You need to be careful with this if it’s true. Mr. Nichols and his fiancée have been fighting and you’re at the center of it.”

“Seriously? Get out of here. I don’t believe it!” I exclaimed.

Ocean shrugged. “That’s what I’ve heard. She thinks he’s having an affair with you. I’ve heard the dean’s office is looking into it. So be careful.”

Feeling shocked, I said, “I’m shocked. I mean, yeah, I think he’s gorgeous. But we’re not dating or anything.”

“Well, you’re not the only girl identified. I think Mr. Nichols may be in more trouble than you at this point.” Ocean flashed me a grin.

I shook my head. “His fiancée is a major bitch.”

Ocean chuckled. “You’d be a bit bitchy too if a bunch of teen girls were trying to jump your boyfriend’s bones.”

I shrugged. “Maybe.” I started stuffing clothes into a second washing machine.

“Tell me if I’m being too nosey,” started Ocean. “Any more dates planned with Don Armstrong?”

I narrowed my eyes at her. “You are being a bit nosey. But yes! I’m going with him to the after game party they have… well… after the game.”

Ocean looked at me quizzically. “Are you a cheerleader?”

I shook my head. “No. Why?”

“Well, usually, from what I hear, only cheerleaders or members of the dance team ever gets invited to that.” Ocean kicked one of her washers that was rattling too much.

I wrinkled my brow. “I guess I’m special, huh?”

Ocean gave me a wry grin. “Just be careful, girl.”

*          *          *

The rest of the week went by without much happening. I was finally able to stop smiling so much. It would still drive Amy crazy. Donny came by briefly Friday afternoon to let me know where I needed to go Saturday to watch the game and be where he expected to find me after the game. I told him I didn’t think I’d be allowed down on the field like that, but he told me not to worry.

Saturday morning, I was sitting on Amy’s bed in her dorm room. She shook her head at me. “Don’t worry about it, Scotti. Just relax and have fun.”

I looked down at my hands. “I don’t know, girl. Where I’m supposed to go is where the cheerleaders gather during the game. What if someone recognizes me as a boy?”

Laughing, Amy said, “You’re worried about that? Don’t forget girl, my dorm isn’t co-ed. You used to come here back when you were still pretending to be a boy and nobody cared. Don’t worry about it.”

I smiled weakly at her. “I hope you’re right.”

Amy grinned. “I’m always right, girl! The game starts in a few hours. You want to be there ahead of time. I’ll be in the stands watching for you.”

I gave Amy an odd look. “When did you start liking football?”

Amy laughed. “Since I started dating Don’s buddy, Ace!”

“Get out of here! When did that happen?”

Grinning ear-to-ear, Amy said, “Last night. He called me and asked if I wanted to go to the same party.”

“So, I’ll see you down on the field then?” I asked.

Frowning and shaking her head. “Only Donny’s girlfriends get that privilege.”

I laughed. “As well they should!” Amy threw a pillow at me.

*          *          *

I was more than a little nervous. It was roughly half an hour before the game and I was walking to the area Donny told me to go to. I was wearing my shortest skirt I’ve ever worn before. I was also wearing a top that left my midriff exposed. Dad would never let me leave the house dressed like this. Well, of course he wouldn’t since boys don’t usually dress this way.

All around me were cheerleaders stretching and getting in some practice. A woman spotted me and started walking towards me. Great. Here’s where I get into trouble.

She said, “Miss! This is a reserved area. You’ll have to go back up to the stands.”

Deciding to play stupid, which I do quite well, actually, I said, “But Donny told me to come here.”

Looking confused for a moment, the woman said, “Donny? Armstrong?”

I smiled broadly. “Yes ma’am!”

The woman smiled and said, “Oh. You must be Scotti. The new squad member.”

I felt like I’d been punched in the stomach. “That what?”

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 15
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

“Excuse me, ma’am. I thought I heard you say new squad member,” I said, feeling confused.

The woman smiled. “Yes. The dressing room is the last of those buildings. I think we have a uniform your size. Don’t worry, they’ve been washed. Donny always seems to pick girls the same size. Better go change. The game starts in half an hour.”

“No no no no,” I said to the woman I assumed was the coach. “You don’t understand. I came here for a date. I’m not a cheerleader.”

The woman grinned at me. “Donny invited you, correct?”

“Yes,” I said, hoping the coach or whatever she was finally understood.

The woman sighed. “I know it’s unorthodox, but we let Donny select a guest cheerleader for us. I’m surprised he didn’t tell you. Obviously we can’t force you into being a cheerleader but most of the girls he picks seem to have fun.”

“So I wouldn’t officially be a cheerleader?” I asked wondering how do I manage to get involved in these things.

The coach folded her arms and looked me up and down. “It’s possible. This can be your tryout. Unorthodox, yes. But due to grade requirements, we lose one or two girls a semester. This way we don’t have to do a formal tryout.”

I shook my head. “I can’t believe this is officially blessed.”

The woman grinned. “It’s not. But Donny wins games. Anyway, you better hurry. The game starts soon. One of the girls will help you.”

I looked at the coach sideways. “The cheerleaders are okay with this?”

She shook her head. “Meh. Half of them joined the squad this way. But you better go change. Most girls enjoy cheerleading.” I started to comment, but she made a shooing motion. “Scoot!”

As I entered the specified building, a cheerleader heading out frowned at me. You better hurry. Your uniform is in the last locker. You can leave your stuff there. It’ll be safe”

I stared at the girl and asked, “You’re okay with this?”

She laughed. “How do you think I became a cheerleader?” She ran out of the building.

I shrugged and walked to the last locker. She enough there was a cheerleader uniform inside that would probably fit. I took a quick look around to verify the locker room was empty and then quickly changed into the two piece uniform. The skirt was really skimpy but I think I have my boy bits very well secured. I put my hair into a loose pony tail and ran outside.

I ran up to the coach and asked, “You sure about this?”

She just shook her head and said, “You have the uniform on. Just have fun and go cheer on your boyfriend.” I nodded and jogged off to join the other girls.

The girl who appeared to be the head cheerleader looked at me and frowned. “Pisses me off. I actually had to try out to get on the squad. You just had to date the MVP. Look, the game is about to start. You can join in on the cheers but not the stunts. You want to stay on the squad, start coming to practice and get a medical exam. Have fun, but stay out of the way.”

I saluted her and said, “Yes, sir!” I shrugged as she scowled and turned away.

I followed the cheerleaders out. When I used to sit in the stands and watch the cheerleaders, I always felt it would be horribly embarrassing being in front of thousands of people. But I found I wasn’t embarrassed at all despite how I was dressed. The crowd was too far away to really register.

Looking up into the crowd, I grinned at a sudden thought. What would Dad say, seeing me down on the field wearing a skimpy cheerleader uniform? Dad always had a dream of me being down on the field, but not like this. I honestly didn’t set out to crash Dad’s dream, but jumping around, yelling and waving my pom poms, I had to giggle at my Dad in my mind. Dad loves watching cheerleaders, but he considers them all to be vacuous eye candy and not much else. I was overcome with a sudden desire to be a cheerleader full time.

Dad isn’t evil. He just tends to discount women. And he’s determined he’s going to make a man out of me.

Donny made the first score. The crowd actually went wild with cheering and I cheered right along with them. I had to admit, I enjoyed being a cheerleader a lot more than I thought I would. But in all seriousness, next week Donny will be dating a new cheerleader recruit and I’ll be left holding my pom poms. But! And this is the big but. It would almost be worth it just to send Dad a text saying, “Hey, Dad! Guess what?” He’d probably just pull my college funding.

Half-time finally rolled around and I couldn’t believe how tired I was. I was getting a good work-out by jumping around and yelling. They had brought out a table loaded with water bottles for us. I grabbed a bottle and then walked back towards the field to watch the band perform its half-time show. I heard footsteps behind me and when I turned around, I saw the cheerleading coach.

She smiled as she stood next to me. “You may be a reluctant cheerleader, but you’re doing a good job out there. I can give you a practice schedule and a list of do’s and don’ts if you think you’d actually like to be a cheerleader.”

I smiled at the coach. I don’t know what her name is. I said, “It is fun. I’m enjoying it more than I thought I would. But honestly, I don’t think I could fit it into my schedule.”

The coach shrugged. “Well, I wasn’t kidding when I said you were good. If you decided you want to try it, come by a practice.”

I smiled at her again and said, “Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.”

To be sure, the worst part of being a cheerleader is having to actually sit through a game. Except to cheer Donny on, I didn’t really pay much attention to the game. The game finally ended and I was happy that Donny made the winning score. All the girls were excited and jumping around.

The coach ran up to me as soon as the game was over. She said, “I’m assuming Donny is going to pick you up? You can use the locker room to take a quick shower and change. Toss your uniform into the big laundry bin. Thanks for helping out. Remember. You’re always welcome to come join us.”

I nodded to the coach. “Thanks! I had fun!” I turned and trotted off to the locker room.

At first I was hesitant about taking a shower with a room full of girls. As far as they all knew, I was a girl too. And the showers did have a curtain for privacy. What the hell.

The shower felt wonderful.

*          *          *

“Hey babe!” said Donny as he wrapped his arm around my waist as he came up from behind me. I turned to face him. Before I could greet him, his lips were on mine. Why did I bother with lipstick?

I grinned at him as we separated for air. Lying, I said, “I had fun watching you score this afternoon!”

He laughed. “Maybe you can have more fun watching me score later tonight!” Hah! Fat chance of that.

I slid my arms around Donny’s neck and kissed him. I wasn’t sure at the beginning of the semester, but as our tongues fought each other, I don’t think there was any doubt which side of the field I was playing on. He’s totally gorgeous and his hard muscles seemed about to burst through his school t-shirt and jeans.

One more kiss and then taking my hand, Donny began to lead me on a short walk across campus. I asked, “Where is this party at? I thought it was at a restaurant or something.”

Donny laughed. “Sometimes we do that. But tonight the team is the guest of I-ATA-PI frat house. The food is always great and they put on a wild party.” He looked over at me for a moment. “You didn’t say anything about it. How did you like being a cheerleader?”

I shrugged. I said honestly, “It was a different experience for sure. I have to admit I had fun.”

“Think you’ll join the squad full time?” Donny asked as we approached a fraternity house emanating very loud music and people were coming and going.

Shaking my head, I said, “I think it’d be fun, but I really don’t see how I can fit it into my schedule.”

Donny let go of my hand and wrapped his arm around my waist. Chuckling, he said, “Well just quit that Pink Bear place. That’ll free up some time.”

I shook my head again. “Oh, I couldn’t do that. That’s something else I enjoy.”

A frown crossed his face for just a moment. He pulled me close and kissed me. “It’s those bear ears that’s got you hooked, isn’t it?”

I laughed. “Exactly!”

A cheer went up as we entered the frat house. Someone standing on a table shouted, “All hail the conquering hero!” Donny is the big man on campus. I couldn’t believe I was actually his date. I held him a bit tighter as every boy in the room turned to stare at me.

The music was way too loud and too much on the metal side for my liking. One table already had piles of pizza boxes. Seems that’s all college kids eat.

One boy pointed at me and shouted, “We shoulda had Pink Bear cater! Their chicken fried steak is much better than pizza!”

The boy standing on the table shouted, “All hail Pink Bear! They have the cutest staff!”

Someone else shouted, “And naturally my man Don has the cutest one of all!” Well, that’s not embarrassing at all. Not.

Donny kissed me and then patted my butt. “Go grab yourself a pizza. I need to do some glory basking with my fans.” He grinned and hurried over to a group of boys who started singing the college’s fight song. Several of the boys pointed to me and gave Donny a thumbs up gesture.

One of the boys looking at me asked Donny, “How do you manage to get the hottest babes?”

One of the boys slapped Donny on the back and shouted, “Because he’s the man!” They all laughed. I felt suddenly alone. I’m not Donny’s date. I’m his trophy.

A voice beside me said, “Let’s get some pizza.”

I turned to see Larry standing next to me.

I shook my head and grinned. “My God, Lar. Are you everywhere?”

Chuckling, he said, “Just making sure you stay out of trouble.”

I frowned at him. “Are you my mother?”

Taking my arm and leading me to the piles of pizza, Larry said, “Yes. And as your next door neighbor, I’m the only one here who remembers you as a boy.”

I was about to open a pizza box when my blood ran cold. Worried, I whispered to Larry, “You’re not going to out me, are you?”

Looking insulted, Larry said, “I’m insulted that you would even think that. Of course I wouldn’t. I think you’re a beautiful girl.”

I folded my arms and frowned. “I guess this means you want a date?”

Larry laughed. “No. I’m already dating Stan.” That’s when I noticed Stan across the room. He waved at me.

I relaxed and took a bite of pizza. “You’re full of surprises, Larry.” He laughed.

Larry and I chatted and ate a few slices of pizza for about twenty minutes. Having gloried in his hero worship, Donny stepped up to us and he put his arm around my waist. Since he was grinning, I figured he really wasn’t upset when he poked a finger at Larry and said, “Trying to muscle in on my girl?”

Larry put his hands up defensively and laughed. “Not me. I don’t have a death wish.”

Donny chuckled. “Smart man. Oh, hey. Deathmatch tomorrow night. You joining?”

Larry nodded. “Don’t I always?”

Donny grinned. “See ya then.”

Donny led me to a somewhat private part of the room and put his arms around me. After a kiss, he played with my hair. In a low voice, he said, “The guys set up a private room upstairs just for us.”

*          *          *

“He didn’t get mad when you turned him down for sex?” asked Amy over the phone on a drizzly Sunday afternoon.

I leaned back and looked out my window at the wet streets. “I was surprised. I fully expected him to yell at me. But he didn’t. That evening we kissed a lot and danced and I ate too much pizza.”

Amy asked, “Did he ask you out again?”

I shook my head uselessly over the phone. “Not last night. I’m hoping to hear from him sometime today.”

“Girl, get ready,” said Amy seriously. “Instead of a break up, he just might never bother to call you again.”

“He’d break up with me over sex?” I asked.

“Don’t be so naïve, Scotti. Of course he would. You don’t think he went out with you hoping to get the secret recipe for Pink Bear chicken fried steak do you?”

I chuckled. “I don’t even know the secret recipe!”

“See? Your romance was doomed either way! Donny’s used to getting what he wants. Don’t be surprised if he quietly dumps you.”

I sighed. “If that’s the case, it was fun while it lasted. Hey girl, see ya tomorrow at Pink Bear.” We disconnected

*          *          *

I looked up at the clock. It was a quarter to eleven, the busiest time of the day for us at Pink Bear. I adjusted my bear ears as Amy checked out the cashregister.

She turned to me and asked, “Hey, it was so busy this morning, I didn’t get a chance to ask. Did Donny call you yesterday?”

I grimaced. “Nah. I guess I should fear the worst?”

Amy shrugged. “Possibly. Oh. Here comes trouble.” She pointed at the door.

I turned just as Jerry walked through the door which caused the bell to jingle.

Grinning broadly, Jerry said, “Well, if it isn’t my favorite babe, and Amy. How’s it going?”

Amy checked the time on the clock. “Hey, it’s closing time already. You need to come back tomorrow when I’m off.”

Jerry just grinned. “Ah, Amy. It is to laugh. But it’s Scotti I’m here to see.”

I smiled at Jerry. “I feel so blessed.”

Jerry looked serious for a moment. “Well, you should. I have two questions.”

I leaned on the counter, which Joanie is always telling us not to do. I asked, “So what’s your questions, Jer?”

Jerry leaned on the counter as well and leaned in close to my face. “Depending on how you answer the first question, I might not get to the second. First, are you still dating the Donster?”

I narrowed my eyes at Jerry. “As far as I know, why?”

“Earlier today, I saw him putting the squeeze on that cheerleader Allison whats-her-name?” Jerry leaned closer to my face.

Amy laughed. “Well, there’s the answer to your question, Scotti. Don’t look at me like that.”

“Going on the assumption that you two are no longer dating, my second question is, how about dinner and dancing this Friday night?” asked Jerry, smiling broadly.

I sighed and frowned. “Well, since you put it that way, Jer, I’d love go dancing and to dinner with you.”

Jerry grinned from ear-to-ear. “Great! I’ll pick you up at six.” He looked back and forth to make sure Joanie wasn’t watching and then he leaned in more and gave me a quick kiss. About then, a couple of people entered the store, but Jerry blocked my view.

I grinned at Jerry. “Jerry, you need to move over so I can deal with this customer.”

Jerry stepped to one side as I looked up and said, “Welcome to Pink Bear, sir. How may I… DAD!?”

Dad looked down at me and gruffly said, “Scott?”

Jerry looked from me to my dad and back to me. “Oh hell.”

*          *          *

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 16
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I felt a shaft of cold shoot down my spine. I looked nervously from Jerry and back to Dad. “Dad! This is such a surprise.”

Dad scowled at me. “I’ll bet it is. Why in hell is my son dressed in such a ridiculous outfit?”

Jerry looked unbelievingly over at me. “Son?” What blood I had left ran cold. Oh God, Jerry’s going to hate me.

I tried to laugh and grinned at Dad. I said, “This isn’t what it looks like!”

Joanie stepped out of her office and walked up to the counter. She looked Dad up and down. “Sir, is there a problem with one of my staff?”

Annoyed at having his fury interrupted, Dad turned on Joanie. “Yes! My son looks ridiculous in that outfit and I still haven’t gotten an answer!”

Joanie frowned at Dad. “Ridiculous?! Sir, everyone who works the counter at my restaurant must wear the required uniform. Not only does Scott look terrific in the uniform, traffic to the restaurant has doubled since hiring her… er, him.” Does it count that a lot of that traffic are boys asking for dates?

Dad pounded the counter top. “I don’t give a shit about that!”

Mom stepped nervously up to the counter. She just stared at me. “Scott. What’s happened to you?”

“Mom…”

Yelling, Dad shouted, “This ends right now!”

I shouted back, “Dad! Let me explain!”

Dad frowned deeply at me. “Do you really think you can explain why my son, who I sent off to college to become a man is standing in front of me wearing a pink dress, pink lipstick and pink bear ears of all things? I don’t think you can. Take that shit off, Scott. You look ridiculous. We’re going home. You can formally withdraw from college later. I’m not spending one more dime on this nonsense.”

“Dad! Please! Be reasonable. I don’t want to leave college. I’ve kept my grades up. I want to finish my degree!”

Dad’s face reddened. “Scott! Go wash your face and put on some pants. You blew your college chance by not following my demands to quit this girl nonsense. Change and get in the car. We’re leaving.”

Jerry decided to join into the fray and said, “Sir. Don’t you think you’re being unfair to Scotti? I know she’s worked very hard.”

Dad scowled deeply towards Jerry. “Who the fuck are you?”

Jerry swallowed audibly. He said, “I’m her boyfriend.” That was sweet of him to say, but it just fanned the flames of Dad’s anger.

I didn’t think Dad’s face could redden further. “My God, Scott. You’ve fooled this poor idiot to think you’re a girl. I didn’t think your perversions could sink so low. Now change so we can leave.”

Having trouble breathing as my own anger built. I growled, “I have nothing to change into. I’d have to go back to my dorm.”

Dad shook his head. “Well, you better start walking. No son of mine is going to ride in my car looking like that.”

“It’s a mile back to my dorm!” I shouted.

Amy said quietly, “I’ll take you, Scotti.”

I tried to smile at Amy. I said, “Thanks. But you can’t leave Joanie without anyone at the cash register. I guess I’ll walk.”

Jerry touched my arm. “I’ll take you, babe. That’s a long walk.”

Dad shook his head. “No. My son is not getting into a car with this… this boyfriend.”

Joanie said, “Go ahead Amy and help Scotti. I’ll be okay. And Scotti. You always have a job here.”

I gave Joanie a weak smile. “Thanks. I doubt I’ll be back though.”

Amy stepped out from behind the counter. “Okay, girl. Let’s go. I can’t be in the same room as this bastard anyway.”

Dad shook his head at Amy. He turned to Joanie and asked, “Can I get a cup of coffee?”

Joanie flashed Dad a hateful look. “No. You can’t. I suggest you leave the building and wait outside.” She turned her back to him and walked back into her office.

As I exited from behind the counter, Jerry took my arm and turned me to face him. He pulled me to him and kissed me. “Our date’s still on, right?”

I ran my hand through his hair and sadly said, “I don’t think so, Jerry. Thanks, though.” Dad’s eyes got wide and I thought he was going to pass out.

I followed Amy out to her car. I had held my tears until I stepped into her car. I wasn’t going to give Dad the satisfaction of my tears.

Once inside her car, Amy put her arms around my neck and pulled me into a bear hug. “Oh Scotti! I feel awful. This is all my fault. None of this would be happening if I’d never suggested you work at Pink Bear!”

Tears started to flow as I said, “No, it’s not your fault. I knew I was risking getting caught. Dad always seems to find out.”

Amy surprised me with a kiss. “Don’t give up yet. We’ll try to figure something out.”

We hugged each other and cried for a couple of minutes. I said, “We should probably go before Dad comes over here and starts yelling again.”

As she started her car, Amy said, “How did you turn out so nice with a dad like that?”

I sighed. “Believe it or not, he wasn’t always such an asshat. He wanted to send me to a military school of all things to straighten me out. I threatened to run away and he changed his mind and just sent me to college. He really wants his 2.8 grandchildren.”

Amy shook her head as she drove out onto the street to head for my dorm. “He’s wound up so tight, he’s going to explode. Maybe you should run away.”

I bit my lip. “If I can survive that long, as soon as I turn twenty-one, I’m leaving. Not sure where to, but I just can’t stay much longer than that.”

When we arrived at my dorm, I went storming into the building, slapping the elevator button. Amy had to run to catch up.

“I know you’re mad, girl, but slow down!” exclaimed Amy as the elevator door slid closed behind her.

I slammed the wall of the elevator. I started to cry again. “Shit! I just don’t know what to do!”

Amy held my hand. “We’ll figure something out.”

I went storming past Larry who was eating cold pizza and studying in the common area. I slammed open my room’s door and tossed myself onto my bed and began bawling like a… like a girl.

Amy sat on my bed and started rubbing my back. “Don’t give up, yet Scotti.”

Larry stuck his head in the door. “What’s going on? Anything I can do?”

Amy frowned and said, “Scotti’s father showed up at the Pink Bear. He was not happy to see how she was dressed.”

Larry smirked. “I’m not crazy about that uniform myself.”

Amy scowled at Larry. “Look. If you’re just going to be a jack-ass, you can leave.”

Larry held up his hands defensively. “I’m sorry. Seriously, what’s up with Scotti?”

While I continued to cry and sniffle, Amy said, “It’s her dad. He came into the Pink Bear and saw her.”

Larry raised his eyebrows. “Well crap. I’m sure that didn’t go over well. Is that why she’s so upset?”

I rolled over and looked at Larry. “If you must know, Larry. I’m done here. Dad is cutting off my money and wants me to withdraw from college and go home with him. He’s waiting at the Pink Bear for my return. I have to change clothes because he can’t tolerate me looking like this.”

Larry shook his head. “Oh wow, girl. That’s terrible. You’re not leaving today though, are you?”

I sat up on my bed and frowned. “Yes. As soon as I change into something more manly and Amy drives me back.”

Larry looked thoughtful for a few moments. “Don’t do anything just yet. I have an idea.”

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 17
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I frowned at Larry. “What do you mean, don’t do anything. I have to pack my suitcase and leave, like Dad told me to. Is it okay if I leave the rests of my stuff with you until I can return for it?”

Larry shook his head. “Scotti, you don’t have to leave.”

I sighed. “I can’t disobey my dad. He’s already cutting me off.”

“It doesn’t matter,” said Larry waving for me to be quiet. “Just listen for a second.”

I at on my bed and folded my arms and frowned. “Okay, Larry. I’m listening. Make it quick, because I have to go.”

Amy leaned against my desk as Larry sat on my bed next to me. “You don’t have to go. Just listen. I’m guessing your dad is a bit tight with his money, right?” I nodded. Larry continued, “It’d be stupid to withdraw from college now. And you can tell him that. Everything this semester is paid for. Classes, your room, meals and books are all paid for. No refunds. That ship sailed two weeks ago for even a partial refund. If you leave now, he’s just throwing money away. Text him that. Don’t call him. Hearing his voice will just drag you back into being that good little boy who wants to please his dad. Tell him to go on home without you. You’re going to finish the semester.”

I bit my lower lip and shook my head. “He’ll just kill me later. I still won’t have any money to complete my degree. Face it, Larry. He has me by the balls.”

Larry chuckled and said, “You need to get rid of those. But seriously Scotti. He doesn’t. This will buy us time to find alternate funding. There’re a ton of grants and scholarships available if you qualify. And I bet you would.”

I grinned. “Dad would be so pissed.”

Larry laughed. “After you’re sure he’s left town, send this to your dad to piss him off more.” Larry showed me a picture on his phone of me in a skimpy cheerleader uniform trying to swallow Donny’s tonsils.

I grunted a laugh. “Where the hell did you get that?”

Larry grinned wide as he said, “Donny sent it to me since we’re buds. He was bragging because he knew I liked you.”

I gave Larry a suspicious glance. I asked, “How did he know that?” I paused a moment and asked, “You do?”

Larry flashed me a wry grin. “Well, I told him. Scotti, maybe you don’t realize just how beautiful you are. Everyone I know likes you.”

Amy laughed. “Girl, I told you.”

I just sat on my bed with my hands folded on my lap as I felt my cheeks redden.

“I’m not just saying that,” said Larry. “And Donny told me that the cheerleading coach is very interested in having you become a cheerleader. There is a scholarship for that, which helps even more.”

Amy touched my shoulder. “Girl, I don’t think you have anything to worry about. You don’t need your dad’s money.”

Larry shrugged his shoulders. “You’re past the age of majority. Without his money, he no longer controls you. You’re free.”

I suddenly felt strange. I said, “I… I don’t want to completely sever ties with my family I’d still like to have my Mom’s pumpkin pie and turkey on Thanksgiving.”

Larry raised his eyebrows. “Any severing is on your dad. You have to be who you are. And Scotti, you’re a beautiful and very smart girl with a bright future. You can still have your white picket fence and 2.8 children if you adopt.”

I shook my head at Larry. “I didn’t know you could adopt a fence.”

*          *          *

Joanie gave me a hug when I walked back into Pink Bear. She held me by the shoulders at arms length and said, “I’m so glad you’re not leaving, Scotti. I know it’s not my business, but what did you tell your dad? He almost had a melt down before he left.”

I sighed. “I just told him I wasn’t coming home now as the semester is paid for and I sent him this.” I showed her the picture on my phone of Donny and me. I was almost afraid he’d have a cardiac event, but I sent it anyway. I added, “And I’m officially a cheerleader.”

Joanie grinned. “Well congratulations. We’ll have to create a new schedule for you.” She tapped my back and went back into her office.

I just stood there and stared into space for several minutes.

Amy touched my arm. “Scotti, are you okay?”

I looked back at Amy and shook my head. I was overwhelmed with a feeling of sadness. I sighed. “What have I done, Amy? I have essentially told my dad to go fuck himself.”

“I know it’s hard,” said Amy who has never had to assert she’s a woman. “You knew this moment was coming where you have to choose whose life you’re going to live. Yours or your dad’s? You aren’t the first one to face this. Scotti, you’re a woman. You made the right choice.”

A frowning man standing at the counter growled, “Is there anyone here who can take my order?”

*          *          *

As I climbed into my bed and shut off my light, I thought to myself, God,, what a shitty day! I closed my eyes and my cellphone rang. Well shit. I picked it up and the caller id told me it was Mom calling. Do I really want to talk to her now? Could it be Dad calling with her phone hoping I’d answer her call?

“Hey, Mom.” I said into the phone. “What’s up?”

Mom in her confused voice asked, “Scott. Why are you doing this?”

Angry, I said, “Good night, Mom. Thanks for the chat. I’m going to bed.” I was just about to disconnect the call.

“Scott. Please. Wait,” pleaded my mom. “We need to talk.”

“It’s midnight, Mom. Can’t you belittle me tomorrow?”

Mom cleared her throat. “I had to wait until your father was asleep to make this call…”

Interrupting, I asked, “You’re afraid of him too, aren’t you?”

There was a pause and Mom said, “He can be intense at times. But he really is a good man, Scott.”

I frowned at the phone. “That’s a tough sell, Mom. I really can’t believe that.”

Mom’s voice became cold. “Are you happy, son? You hurt him today.”

Growling, I said, “Really? Did I dislocate his shoulder like what happened to me when I was five and walking in your high heels? Did I give him a black eye like the one I got when I was fifteen and he caught Amy giving me a makeover? Should I go on?”

Mom sighed. “He’s not a monster, Scott. He just doesn’t understand you. Why you reject all his plans he had made when you were first born. He had so many high hopes for you. And you… you…”

“Preferred doing girl stuff?” I asked. “He actually thinks it’s terrible that feel that I should be a girl. Do you find being a girl to be terrible?”

Anger tinged her voice as she said, “Scott! I was born this way!”

“So was I, Mom. So was I.”

There was a long pause. Mom asked, “Are we ever going to see you again? Or are you just going to run off with your boyfriend?”

I knitted my brow for a moment and asked, “Which one? Look, Mom. It’s up to you if and when you see me again. I want to come home for Thanksgiving and see you. But I want to come as me. Scotti.”

Another pause and Mom asked, “If you came home, would you help in the kitchen?”

I chuckled and said, “I certainly will, Mom. I’d be happy to.”

There was another long pause. “Let me speak with your father. I’m sure he’ll say no at first. You’re not planning on bringing home any boys, are you?”

I frowned at the phone again. I said, “I wasn’t planning on it, but keep it up Mom and I’ll come home with a half dozen.”

“Scotti, I’m trying to meet you halfway here,” said Mom sadly. She called me Scotti.

I said, “Mom. I have an early day tomorrow. Let’s talk about this more later.” We said goodnight and disconnected.

To be continued…

 

Pink Bear Romance - Part 18
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

Joanie stepped out of her office and looked around at the crowd of boys at the counter. She asked, “Anybody here who actually wants to buy something?”

Donny looked up from leaning on the counter. He said, “No ma’am. We’re good.”

Larry tried to look over everyone’s heads. “Can I get a chocolate shake?”

Joanie grinned. “Amy. Can you take care of that? I can see that Scotti is busy.” Amy frowned at me.

I asked, “Guys, what’s up? You’re going to get me fired.”

Larry laughed. “She’ll never fire you. You bring in too many customers.”

With a smirk, I said, “You have to buy something to be a customer.”

Larry held up his shake and pointed at it. I grinned and shook my head.

Donny rapped his knuckles at the counter. He looked around and said, “I don’t know what these losers are here for, but I wanted to deliver this news to you personally. The cheerleader coach told me that your application for a cheerleader scholarship has been approved. Plus, she’s been impressed with you at practice.”

I stretched out both arms and yelled, “Yay!” I leaned across the counter and gave Donny a kiss. I quickly pulled back because Joanie definitely frowns on employees showing affecting while on the clock. Donny grinned at me.

Larry smiled. “That’s great, Scotti! If that grant comes through, you’re definitely set for next semester.”

I laughed. “That only leaves three years unfunded.”

Larry touched my hand, with the hand he was holding his shake with and it was ice cold. He said, “Piece of cake, girl. We’ve got this.”

Donny touched my arm. “You’re coming to the victory party after the game Saturday, right?”

Larry chucked and punched Donny on his shoulder. “You’re certain it’ll be a victory party?’

Donny shrugged. “What else would it be?”

Larry and I both laughed. Jerry frowned and turned to walk towards the door.

I turned from the other boys and said, “Jerry! Did you need something?”

He said, “Nothing important.” He continued walking towards the door.

I quickly looked into Joanie’s office. “Joanie! Can I take five minutes please?”

Joanie shrugged. “Why ask me? I’m just the owner.”

I ran around the counter and hurried to the front door. Jerry was just closing the door on his car. I tapped on the glass to get him to lower his window.

Jerry just looked at me a moment before he said, “I’ve got to get to my next class.”

I leaned in his car window. “Jerry! You wanted to say something to me?”

Jerry frowned at me. “I told you it was no big deal. Look. I have to go.”

“Jerry!” I almost shouted. “What did you want?”

Jerry shrugged. “Nothing. I… I was just going to ask if our date for Friday was still on. But it doesn’t matter.”

Frowning, I said, “It matters to me. Why wouldn’t our date still be on? Is it because now you know about me?”

Jerry studied his steering wheel. “About you being a dude? I really can’t picture you that way. But look. I can’t compete with those others. I’m just a shrimp compared to Donny and Larry. You go have fun with them.”

I grunted a laugh. “Is that it? Really? Larry’s gay and I’m not dating Donny anymore. I seem to be stuck with you.” I grinned.

Jerry narrowed his eyes at me. “Really? I didn’t know that about Larry. Stuck with me, huh? It must suck to be you.” He grinned at me.

“I know, right? And I never got to thank you for standing up for me to my dad. With his glare, Dad can reduce lesser men to just puddles.”

Jerry chuckled. “What are boyfriends for?”

I leaned in through the car window and gave Jerry a long deep kiss.

*          *          *

The week went by ok. The usual parade of boys coming in to the restaurant to buy lunch or dinner. I got a text from Dad saying he was writing me out of his will. Mom later texted me to not to worry. I wasn’t expecting anything from Dad anyway. Larry found another grant I could apply for. Oddly, Jerry never came by once.

And then finally, Friday came around. I expected Jerry to stop by Pink Bear for a snack or something, but he didn’t. It was approaching six and I was just applying my lipstick when there was a knock on my door.

I smiled when I opened the door. There stood Jerry, looking nice with his hair combed and wearing a button shirt. Jerry smiled back and said, “You look great, Scotti. Are you ready to go?”

“Hey Jerry. You’re very handsome tonight.” I sniffed and added, “Is that aftershave you’re wearing?”

Jerry grinned. “Well, since I shaved today, I thought what the hell?”

Smiling, I said, “Let me grab my purse and we’ll go. What’s the plan?”

Jerry stepped aside to give me room to exit my dorm room. He said, “Do you like Korean BBQ?”

As we walked towards the elevator, I said, “I don’t think I’ve ever had it before.”

Shrugging, Jerry said, “It’s a little on the spicy side, but I think you’ll enjoy it.”

“Cool.”

Jerry drove us to a place cryptically called Korean BBQ. It looked like a fairly new place.

As we exited Jerry’s car, I asked, “This looks new. Have you been here before?”

Jerry walked up to me to take my hand. He said, “Yeah. It’s been here about a year. I brought my girlfriend… uh… yeah, I’ve been here before.”

I grinned as I shook my head. “Jerry. It’s no big deal if you brought another girl here. Did she like it?”

Looking sheepish and staring at his feet, Jerry said, “Yeah, she did.”

I smiled at Jerry and squeezed his hand.

As we were shown our table, I was surprised to see a grill in the middle of the table.

Sitting down, Jerry said, “We get to cook our own beef and vegetables. Is that okay with you?”

I laughed. “It’s a little late to ask! But sure. It’ll be fun.”

Looking nervous, he asked, “You’re angry, aren’t you?”

Feeling confused, I chuckled and leaned over to give Jerry a quick kiss. “Chill, dude. This is great.” He nodded.

While we cooked our dinner, Jerry chatted about a few classes he was nervous about. I’m not a big history buff, so all I could do was offer encouragement.

As we started to eat, I discovered it was a little spicier than I was expecting. But not in a bad way. It was very good and cooking it ourselves just added to the overall experience.

While he ate, he fell silent for a minute. Finally he looked up at me and said, “So. You’re going to get to stay at the university?”

I had to jostle a piece of meat back and forth in my mouth to avoid burning my tongue. I nodded a couple times before answering. “Yes! At least for the next two semesters. Larry is a miracle worker. I never knew I had so many options for scholarships and grants.”

Jerry smiled at me as he took another bite. “That’s great! I was really worried when your dad said you had to quit.”

I nodded. “Me too.”

Jerry poked at his food for a minute while he looked as if he was trying to think. He sighed deeply and gave me a grim stare. “When were going to tell me?”

I knew what he meant. I felt a chill run through me as I stared at my plate. “Tell you what?”

He looked away from me for a moment, then said, “You know what, Scotti. When were you planning on sharing the fact that you’re a dude?”

My stomach knotted up. I set my fork down on my plate. I couldn’t look over at him. “You don’t have to say it that way.”

Jerry frowned. “How about ‘biological male’?”

I sighed. “That’s actually worse.” I sighed and felt tears starting to well up. “If our relationship was going to start getting deeper, I planned to tell you. I’m sorry I wasn’t honest up front.”

Sounding a bit pissed, Jerry said, “I kissed you.”

With pleading eyes, I looked over at him. “Do we have to discuss this now?”

Folding his arms across his chest, Jerry said, “Yes. Does Donny know about you?”

I started to cry. “I… I honestly don’t know. Probably not.”

“And Larry?”

“I was his male next door neighbor when the semester started. So I’m sure he guessed the truth early on.”

“There’s the word I’m looking for.” Jerry frowned. “Truth. Why didn’t you trust me with the truth?”

“How could I?” I exclaimed. “I liked you, even though you’re a bit of a goof-ball. You’re funny and fun to be around. I didn’t think there’d be anything serious between us but I was afraid you’d reject me.”

“It hurts you didn’t trust me.”

“You don’t understand how there’s so much more riding on rejection for someone like me. Especially the fear of being exposed.”

Jerry looked sad. “I would never hurt you, Scotti. I think you’re a wonderful girl.”

I just looked down at my hands. What was there for me to say?

Leaning towards me, lifted my chin up with is fingers. “I don’t care who you used to be.” He looked me straight into my eyes. His lips parted as he leaned in closer.”

To be continued…

Pink Bear Romance - Part 19 - FINAL
by Melanie Brown
Copyright  © 2023 Melanie Brown

 

---

 

I closed my eyes and felt his warm, soft lips touch mine. Going out with Jerry before was just a lark. I didn’t take him seriously. Now he’s kissing me and it feels wonderful. He knows who I really am and he’s still kissing me. I can’t be falling for him, can I?

He pulled me closer to him and kissed me again. Longer. There’d be no interruptions by Larry this time. This boy… this man, stood up to my dad to defend me. Not many can do that. Am I falling for him?

After a few minutes of solid kissing, Jerry pulled back and took a deep breath. He said, “Scotti, I think I l…” I quickly put my finger against his lips.

I said, “Don’t say it. Please.”

Smiling, he pushed my finger away. “I think I… like you.” He grinned.

His comment caught me off guard. I laughed and said, “I like you too, Jerry.”

Jerry looked around. “Um, people are staring at us. Maybe it’s time to leave.”

Smirking, I asked, “Are you embarrassed to be seen with me?”

He grinned and bent down to kiss me again.

*          *          *

“What’s wrong, Scotti? You’re not your usual self,” said Amy as we were getting ready to start another business day at Pink Bear.

I sighed. “I don’t know where my life is going, Amy. What do I want? I’m very confused right now.”

Amy leaned on the counter next to me and looked at me with some concern. “Did your date with Jerry last night not go well?’

I grunted a laugh. “It went great. Maybe too great.”

Giving me a curious look, Amy asked, “What do you mean?”

I stared at my hands clasped in front of me. “What do I want from Jerry? I had a really good time with him last night. We kissed. We went to the park after dinner and talked about everything and nothing. He really likes me, Amy. And dammit if I don’t feel I’m falling in love with that goofball.”

Amy grinned. “What’s wrong with that? Aren’t we all searching for that one person?”

I nodded. “Yes. But is he that one? Or am I going to him because he at least says he doesn’t care what’s between my legs? He was caught off-guard by Dad.”

Shaking her head, Amy said, “I don’t see a problem here, Scotti. He obviously likes you. How do you feel about him? I mean really.”

I sucked in a deep breath. “I like him too. A lot. More than I think I should, really. We’re both just nineteen. I’m just starting to figure things out. Is he the one… or just the first one?”

Amy chuckled. “I think you’re getting ahead of your skis. You don’t have to marry the first boy who likes you. Remember back in middle school that John whats-his-name? You had such a huge crush on him and you swore you were going to marry him. What happened to that?”

I shrugged. “He never knew my name. And why would he? I was a boy and he was very into girls.” I shook my head. “He got that poor girl pregnant on prom night? Remember? What was her name?”

Amy shook her head. “I don’t remember. He married her though. A shotgun wedding if I ever saw one. But honestly Scotti, you’ve never really been a boy.”

I looked over at her. “Tell my dad that.”

Amy’s expression turned serious. “I will.” She poked me in the shoulder. “And why the hell do I have to keep reminding you that you’re a girl?”

I smiled at Amy. “Hey, I’m a girl going forward. There’s no turning back.”

Four students entered the Pink Bear. Amy nudged me with her elbow. “We’ll continue this later.”

I nodded.

*          *          *

“Good job, everyone!” shouted the cheerleader coach. “We’re more than ready for the pep rally Friday night. Have a great rest of your day.”

We all turned and started heading for the locker rooms. Some of us ran, and others like me just walked. I wasn’t in a hurry. I had the evening off at Pink Bear and oddly I was all caught up on my studies. I wasn’t even worried about my two tests on Friday morning.

Walking across the field coming towards us was Donny. Football practice must have just ended as well as he was still suited up. The girls passing him all smiled at him and called cheerfully to him. He’d smile and wave back. He appeared to be walking straight towards me. Well, it didn’t just appear that way. He intercepted me before I got to the locker room.

“Hey, Scotti. Wait up. I want to talk to you,” Donny said as he got close to me.

I stopped walking and turned to face him. I smiled pleasantly at him. Damn, I’d love to go out with him again. He is so gorgeous. “Hey, Donny!” I greeted. “What’s up?”

He touched my arm as he said, “Let’s step over here to have a little privacy.” We stepped over next to a wall. “First, let me say I’m not pissed at you.” Well, this can’t be good.

“What’s wrong, Donny?” I asked, feeling worried.

“I just found out some things and I want to know why you didn’t tell me you were a dude? The term I heard was ‘biological male.’”

A bolt of cold flushed down my spine. I looked down at my feet. There was no point in denying it. “I’m really sorry for not saying anything, Donny. I was going to wait for a good time, but then we broke up.”

Donny frowned at me. “A good time? How about when I first asked you out? How about something like, ‘Hey, you know I’m a dude, right?’ That would have been a good time.”

I felt tears welling up. “I was afraid you wouldn’t go out with me.”

He stepped closer, getting into my space. “Maybe. Maybe not. I wish you had trusted me.”

I frowned. “Trust?” I barked. “You have any idea how hard it is to trust anyone about this? I can’t even trust my dad!”

He touched my arm. “I do understand, Scotti. I don’t share this very often because I just don’t want to deal with the questions. Maybe I shouldn’t hide it. I have a cousin who’s trans. So yeah. I’m not bothered by you. At all.”

“I wish I’d known,” I said sourly.

Donny shrugged. “Not sure if it would have made any difference. You’re gorgeous, you’re fun, but not really what I’m looking for. You’re going to make some guy really happy one day. I mean it. But don’t do anything stupid like leaving the squad. I gotta run. I’ll chatch ya later.”

I nodded. “See ya.” Well, this sucks.

*          *          *

“He actually said that?” asked Amy after I told her about talking to Donny.

I nodded. “Yep.”

Amy shook her head. “Too bad you didn’t tell him up front. Things might have turned out different between you two.”

I scowled at Amy. “You know why I didn’t. He could just as easily been the type that would have beat the shit out of me. Next semester, I’m going to change dorms and be right upfront about who I am. No pretending to be a boy.”

Amy smirked. “You should have done that at the get-go.”

I punched Amy lightly in the arm. “Are you forgetting my dad? He sent me to college to become a man.”

We both looked up at the sound of the front door opening. My heart skipped when I saw it was Mr. Nichols. I’m sorry, but he’s just really gorgeous.

I smiled broadly at him. “Good morning, Mr. Nichols. What can we do for you today?”

He walked right up to the counter and leaned on it. “And a good morning to you, Scotti. I’d like to have one of your wonderful breakfast burritos, please.”

“Coming right up,” I said grinning as I rang up his order.

As he stood there waiting for the kitchen staff to prepare his order, Mr. Nichols said, “I was afraid you might have left. I’d heard some students say you were withdrawing. And then I haven’t seen you around the office lately.” Aww! He missed me!

“I was worried that I’d have to withdraw when I lost funding. And things just got busy for me. Applying for scholarships and such. Plus I’m now on the cheerleading squad.”

Mr. Nichols grinned. “That’s splendid. The wife and I will have to come to a game then.”

I felt the air being let out of my sails. “The wife?” I handed him his burrito.

Mr. Nichols took the burrito and put it inside his briefcase. “Oh, I guess you haven’t heard yet. Ms. Zicke and I tied the knot last week.”

Not really caring, I asked, “Oh? Where did you on your honeymoon? And congratulations.”

Still grinning despite dashing my dreams on the rocks, Mr. Nichols said, “We’re waiting until the semester is over. Then we’re going the Alps for skiing.”

I smiled weakly and said, “You kids have fun over there. And be careful.”

As he started to turn to leave, he said, “Oh. If you’re still needing a source of financing, next semester our department will have several openings for office assistant.” He looked over at Amy. “Tell her she’d make a great office assistant.”

Amy looked at me with a grin. “You’d make a great office assistant.”

I frowned at Amy. “Thanks.” I waved as Mr. Nichols left the restaurant.

*          *          *

Amy and I had about a half hour to go in our afternoon shift. It had been relatively quiet afternoon. I was a bit down in the dumps after Mr. Nichol’s revelation. I was expecting the rest of the afternoon to be more relaxing.

Amy poked me in the arm. “Hey Scotti. You might want to run out the back door.”

I looked up. “What?” And then my blood ran cold. I saw my dad getting out of his car. It was just him. No Mom. What could he want? No more running. I’m confronting him head on.

As soon as he walked through the door and took his ball cap off, Dad just said, “Scott. We need to talk.”

I narrowed my eyes at Dad as he approached. “I have nothing to say to you. Unless you’re buying a chicken fried steak, you should probably leave.”

Showing no emotion, Dad said, “That does sound good. But we do need to talk. Somewhere private.”

Joanie stepped from her office. “You guys can use my office. It has a door you can shut. But please. No blood.”

I frowned at Joanie. “I think we can avoid bloodshed. That’s up to Dad.”

Joanie said to Dad. “Sir. Just walk around that way to get behind the counter.”

Dad nodded. “Thank you, ma’am.” He started walking around the counter. I entered Joanie’s office and sat down at her desk. Dad entered a moment later and shut the door. He sat down in one of the other two seats.

He wouldn’t look at me for a moment as he sat down. He took a deep breath and sighed.

He finally looked up at me and set his jaw. “This is very hard to say.” What the hell is he up to?

“Your mother and I had a very deep discussion about you,” Dad said grimly. “What should we do going forward?”

“I’m listening, Dad,” I said trying not to sound concerned.

“Scotti, I was wrong,” said Dad matter-of-factly. Holy shit! He called me Scotti and said he was wrong!

I leaned forward and asked accusingly, “Who are you and what have you done with my dad?”

Dad chuckled. “I told your mother you’d say something like that. But yes. After much soul-searching, we came to the conclusion that I was wrong to try to force being male on you. We’ve seen this in you for a long time. I was just convinced that if I kept pushing, you’d eventually out grow this girl thing.”

I sighed. “It’s who I am, Dad. I’m not out growing it.”

Nodding, Dad said, “We realize this now. And I was impressed at your resourcefulness in getting finances for school.”

We just stared at each other for almost a minute. I asked, “Is that it?”

Dad took another deep breath. I could tell he was having to work up to make his next statement. “Scotti, I accept you as my daughter. Will you forgive me?”

I sat there, frozen for a moment. I knew how hard this was for Dad to say. To actually admit he was wrong on something and to accept who I am. But do I so easily forgive him? All the pain. But if I don’t, the pain will never end. He could be lying to me. He’s lied before. But this time I felt he was sincere.

Fighting off a tear, I stood up and reached over the desk towards him. “I forgive you, Daddy.”

Dad leaned towards me. “Let me hug my girl.” He actually had a tear in his eye. It was a little awkward, hugging across Joanie’s desk, but we did.

We walked out of Joanie’s office and hugged again. In front of Joanie and Amy, he pledged to restore my financing for college. I bought him a chicken fried steak.

As Dad started to turn to leave, he paused and said, “If you’re interested, there’s summer intern position at the Plano site for office assistant.”

I shook my head. “I want to be a programmer, Dad.”

He shrugged and said, “You have to start somewhere.”

“I’ll think about it. Have a safe drive home, Dad.” I said, hoping Dad truly meant what he’d said.

Through the windows, we watched Dad drive away. Amy asked, “Well, what do you think?”

I sighed. “He said he won’t oppose me changing gender. He just won’t pay for it.”

Amy shrugged. “That’s a start.”

Jerry was waiting for me in the break area outside my dorm room. When I entered, he stood up with a serious expression on his face.

He said, “Woman. I’m done with the games. I need to know. I love you, but I need to know how you feel about me.”

I grinned at him. “You big goofball.” I slid my arms around his neck. “Of course I love you.” And then we kissed.

I had a lot of emotions pent up and we kissed for a very long time.

The End of Pink Bear Romance