Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 1
The assignment.
Morning rollcall. Western District station house.

“Already people settle down.” Patrol Sergeant Jack Newhouse called out as he entered the squad room. The men and women of the day shift quickly quieted down and took their seats. “Okay people can any of our rookies tell me what Walking the Stroll is?”

“It’s where Vice uses rookies in a sting operation by placing them undercover among the local prostitutes.” Officer Lisa Norton said from her seat in the front row.

“Very good Officer Norton. Now how often does Vice make this request?” Newhouse asked. When none of the four rookies answered Newhouse chuckled. “That is a loaded question people. Vice normally pulls from the rookies every chance they get, but they always pull from patrol every two to three months. The reason is simple. Busting hookers and their Johns isn’t a high on anybody’s list of crimes unless some dipshit on the City Council is running for reelection. The rest of time Vice only get their panties in a twist when two or more of the girls show up dead. Now can any of you tell me why I hate this type of assignment?”

“Because it leave you shorthanded for the rest of the patrol?” Asked Officer Jeana Witman.

“Very good Officer Witman you earn a brownie point. Can you guess why being shorthanded pisses me off, Office Cartwright?” Newhouse of the only male rookie currently on his shift.

“Because for very officer not working a patrol route the rest of the shift has to pick up their slack Sergeant. Which means more overtime that needs to be paid out. With the current budget cuts, that is unpaid overtime.” Joe said as Newhouse nodded his head yes.

“Very good Officer Cartwright. Only you missed something very important. For very officer working the fucking strolls for Vice there is a hole in coverage. Meaning longer response times for actual crimes. Things like murder, armed robbery, rap, muggings just to name a few. Crimes that can be prevented by having officers patrolling high crime areas. Instead of busting the balls of two consenting individuals engaging in a consensual act because of some bullshit morality law.” Newhouse practically snarled before he picked up his clipboard. “Now who wants get into my good graces and volunteer to be Vice’s bitches?”

Both Jeana and Lisa just raised their hands as their training officers chuckled. Meanwhile Joe just sat back thinking he wouldn’t be stuck with the duty. After all this was prostitute sting. Something that Vice won’t be looking at men to work.

“Thank you Officers but you get to work with your TOs. Officer Cartwright report to Detective Ramsy in Vice.” Newhouse much to everyone’s surprise, especially Joe’s.

“Excuse me Sergeant, but Cartwright is a man. This is a prostitution sting. You need the ladies for something like that.” Officer Jake Kingsly said from behind Joe.

“Normally I would agree with Kingsly. This time though you and I would both be wrong. Vice is working their sting in Oceanside Park.” Newhouse explained for Joe’s Training Officer.

“Ah shit.” Joe grumbled. Of the six known prostitution strolls two were known for their transgender prostitutes. The Oceanside Park stroll and the Riverwalk stroll. When Newhouse looked over at him Joe just nodded his head saying. “Is there any way I can get out of this assignment sir?”

“I would love to say yes Cartwright, but the Chief of Ds is getting grief about the ladies working the Oceanside stroll. I hope this will be just a one and done thing, but don’t count on it. Counsel Man McManis is pushing hard for shutting down the Oceanside stroll. So this could be a long term undercover operation. Look at it this way Cartwright. After this operation you’ll get your choice of assignments.” Newhouse informed as the rest of the officers chuckled at Joe’s embarrassment.

“Yes sir.” Joe said as he thought about what he would have to put up with for the foreseeable future. Hopefully the pranks won’t get too far out of hand.

“On to other business. We got three BOLOs today. One is for a seventy-seven two tone brown Cadillac El Dorado wanted in connection to a drive-by shooting last night. The next is for a twenty year old male last seen wearing jeans, blue Baltimore Ravens hoodie, and red sneakers. Approach with caution to be considered armed. Wanted for the stabbing of a fifty-five year old woman outside of a Walgreens. The last BOLO is a Silver Alert. Individual is a seventy-nine female. Last seen at four-forty-five North Vine Street just before ten pm. According to the report she was last seen wearing a light blue cotton nightgown, sleepers, and a gray housecoat. Listen up people if you see her contact dispatch for a Social Worker. According to the missing’s daughter the woman suffers from advanced Alzheimer’s, so she maybe disorientated. Any questions?” Newhouse asked as he finished his morning briefing. When no one said anything Newhouse looked over at Joe. “Cartwright see me in my office before reporting to Vice. Okay people hit the streets and watch your backs out there. I hate heroes.”

As the rest of the shift headed out for patrol Joe headed for Newhouse’s office. Once there Newhouse got straight to the point. “Cartwright I’ll won’t waste your time. This assignment for Vice is bullshit. We both know that, but McManis is pushing hard to shut down the t-girl strolls. That means we got to spend resources and show the numbers. That means putting officers undercover and issuing tickets. Just put your time in and get as many Johns as you can. Understood?”

“Yes sir. I’m just not looking forward to the horseshit from the other guys.” Joe told him honestly.

“If you get any shit Joe. I don’t care what it is. You bring it to me. This is the kind of assignment that anyone can get stuck with. You just had the bad luck of getting tagged this go around. By the way that is exactly how it came down. Someone in Vice pulled your name out of the hat. Now, is there anything else you want talk about?” Newhouse said as he sat down behind his desk.

“Yes sir. What can you tell me about the actual assignment?” Joe asked.

“Not much Joe. For some reason Vice is keeping their lips sealed on this operation. The only I know is the tasking came down and it was signed off on by the Chief of Detectives, Chief Walker. That’s why you’ll get your choice of assignments when the op is over.” Newhouse told him.

“Damn. This Counsel Man must have some serious pull downtown.” Joe grunted.

“The asshole is one of three people who review the budget for the department. I’ll let you in on a poorly kept secret. McManis is part of the push to cut back on patrols in the low income areas. You know what that means?” Newhouse told Joe.

“That means fewer cops on the road in the areas that need us the most. Talk about playing to the Defund the Police crowd. Is he up for reelection or something?” Joe asked.

“Worse. He’s running for election to the State Congress.” Newhouse explained.

“By pushing a tough on crime attitude while being fiscally responsible. Talking about being a two-faced politician.” Joe snorted then asked. “Before I head up to Vice, Sergeant. What is the man’s beef with the pros in Oceanside Park? They’re some of the smartest working gals anywhere.”

“If I had to guess. One of his people got busted picking up a t-girl and now he’s building some kind of political campaign to clean up prostitution to give his man an excuse for being in the area. At least that’s how it looks to me.” Newhouse answered. “Before you go I’ll give you one last piece of advice. Trust your team. They have the experience, you don’t. And if something feels off. No matter what use the codeword. Understood?”

“Yes sir. Anything else?” Joe said as he stood up.

“Other than good luck and watch your six Cartwright. You know how I feel about heroes.” Newhouse told the rookie with a straight face.

“Got it boss. I hear you load and clear.” With that Joe left the Sergeant’s office and headed for the Vice Squad’s offices on the third floor. As Joe walked the halls and climbed the stairs he kept thinking about the meeting he had with his Patrol Sergeant. Joe could tell that Newhouse was warning him about something but couldn’t come right out say what. His gut was telling him to turn down the assignment the first chance he got. Joe hadn’t survived 3 tours in the hell know as Afghanistan as an Army MP and not learned to pay attention to his surroundings.

“I’m telling you Lieutenant. We need to turn this over to Major Crimes.” A detective demanded of the Vice Squad’s Lt. as Joe entered their bullpen.

“I don’t care what your gut is telling you Samuels. This case belongs to us. We know the shit is being dealt through the Oceanside whores. That means we run a John sting and round up a few of the working girls then flip them. That gets us a led on the supplier.” The Lt. snorted as he noticed Joe. “Can we help you Patrolman?”

“Yes sir. I was ordered to report to Detective Ramsy.” Joe answered.

“You our UC?” The Lt. asked only to get a nod from Joe. “Ramsy your UC is here.”

“Send him on back LT. hopefully this one is not a linebacker.” A woman’s voice called out from a room towards the back of the bullpen. Joe just sighed and head for the room as the Lt. pointed towards it. As Joe walked between the desks he could tell that none of the Detectives felt any regret about what Joe was about to go through.

“Well just don’t stand out there. Get in here Officer.” The woman called out when Joe knocked on the door to the room. When Joe entered the room he was greeted by a woman in her late 30s with coal black hair, and the figure of a gymnast. When she turned around to look at him the woman smiled. “Hot damn. We finally got some one we can work with.”

“What are you talking about Ramsy?” Another Detective asked as they walked around a standing screen. The man took one look at Joe and smile. “Holy shit! Personnel actually did something right for fucking once.”

“Um.. are one of you Detective Ramsy?” Joe asked.

“That’s me.” The woman said then pointed towards her male partner. “This my partner Detective Sergeant Joe Friday. Please no Dragnet jokes.”

“Joe Cartwright. I feel the same about Bonanza jokes.” Joe said as he held out his hand Friday.

“Well you want get any of those from us. Now have you been briefed on the operation and the part you’re supposed to play in it?” Ramsy asked him.

“No ma’am. All my Sergeant told was to report to you for a UC operation in Oceanside park.” Joe told them leaving out Newhouse’s suspicions.

“Okay Cartwright here’s the deal. There’s a new type of crystal meth on the streets. The dealers are calling it Twisted Blue. The shit is pure rocket fuel. One hit and you’re hooked. We do know who the main players. We also know they’re using some of the girls in Oceanside Park and the Riverwalk to deal the shit. The problem is we don’t know where it’s being manufactured, who’s dealing it, or how it’s getting distributed. That’s why we need someone on the inside to flip. What we need is for you to ‘work’ the strolls. Try to spot the dealers. Don’t worry about your Johns. They’ll be UC patrol officers from other districts. If you get a chance to make a buy off one of the dealers start small. But whatever you don’t approach a dealer. Just identify them. Your only job is to gather intel. We’ll handle the takedowns. Understood?” Ramsy outlined.

“Sure. I only got one question. When you said my Johns were UCs. Are you expecting me to go undercover as a t-girl hooker?” Joe asked her bluntly.

“That is exactly what we want you to do. Before you go turning us down at least let our artists give you a quick makeover.” Friday told him with a grin.

“I’ll give it a try, but if I look like a man in a dress. All bets are off. Deal?” Joe told them.

“Fine by us Officer Cartwright. Look we know we’re asking a lot of you. That’s why you get your choice of assignments when this operation is over.” The Lt. said as he entered the room. “Ramsy have you finished with briefing our UC yet?”

“No sir. I’ve only gone over the basics. I haven’t explained that this is an open ended operation.” Ramsy said then looked over at a suddenly pissed off Joe. “Let me guess. You were told this is was to be a one and done thing. Two to three weeks at most correct.”

“You could say that. Nobody said anything about this being an open ended operation. No offence but I don’t want to make career of a UC work for Vice.” Joe told them.

“What do you want to do Cartwright? Flight Operations? Homicide? K-nine? You name it and I’ll see what we can work out.” The Lt. said quickly.

“I want Mounted Patrol. I know it sounds crazy, but the guys and gals who work Mounted Patrol are closer to the people. They’re still cops but at the same time they’re like ambassadors for the city.” Joe explained for the three detectives.

“Hey, I get partner. I know that Vice isn’t for everyone, and regular patrol can get boring. While working the Mounted division gives you both patrol and public relations in one duty. Though is there something else you would like to do?” Friday asked.

“Sure I’d like to move up the ranks like everyone else, but I want to do it in patrol. The best way to do that is to work with the other patrol units. Starting with the Mounted division.” Joe explained his reasoning for the three detectives.

“Smart thinking Officer. Now that I know what you want I’ll start working out a plan for your training while you’re still working the UC operation.” The Lt. told him then grinned. “By the way I’m Lieutenant Gary Wetmore and your commanding officer for this operation.”

“Pleasure to meet you sir. Joe Cartwright.” Joe said and held out his hand. Only to get a chuckle for the Lt as he looked between him and Friday.

“Looks like we finally got our Big and Little Joe.” Wetmore snarked as he compared the size between the two men. Where Joe was barely 5’8”, Friday stood a good seven inches taller somewhere around 6’5 to 6’6. Friday also outweighed Joe by at least 50lbs. All of it solid muscle.

“We already agree to no Bonanza jokes LT.” Friday snarled only to have their Lieutenant chuckle and Ramsy giggle. “Knock it off Mouse.”

“Hey no using my nickname around the rookie!” Ramsy growled.

“Then no TV show jokes.” Friday snarled.

“Knock it off you two.” Wetmore chuckled as looked over a Joe. “Officer Cartwright I apologize for the wisecrack.”

“Forget get about it sir. I learned a long to live with being called Little Joe a long time ago. My only question is can your people make me look enough like a girl to pass? I hate to say this but the t-girls that work the park are not your normal working girls.” Joe told him.

“Easily. We got three of the best makeup artists in the business working for us. They can turn a clean cut kid like you into a DC powerbroker or a homeless vet in a few hours. Though this is the first time we’ve asked something like this of them.” Friday told him honestly.

“In that case I think it’s best to get started. Which way to the artists?” Joe told them.

“Follow me.” Ramsy told him and led the way out of the room and down the hall to a room with a high security door. After entering the door’s code Ramsy showed Joe inside. On the other side of the door Joe was shocked by what he saw. As a teenager Joe’s favorite reality TV game show was Face Off. A program on the SyFy cable network channel in which a group of special effects makeup artists compete against each other to create characters such as those found in science fiction, fantasy, and horror films. Everything that could be found on that show could be found in this room plus a little more. Also like Ramsy had told him there were three people setting around. One man and two women all in their late 20s to early 30s.

“Joe Cartwright meet Alex North. He’s in charge of disguising our UCs.” Ramsy said as she pointed out the only other man in the room. Joe took his time to evaluate the man. Alex stood a few inches taller, about 5’10”, had blonde hair, blue eyes, a boxer’s build, and was around 35yrs.

“Fine bones, not overly masculine nor too feminine. To be blunt, almost a perfect balance. Except for the high and tight, an androgynous face. I can work with him. By the time we’re done with him not even his own mother will recognize her.” Alex said as he returned Joe’s examination.

“Up next is Anna Bell. She’ll see to all your wardrobe needs.” Ramsy said as Joe shook hands with a 5’8” brown haired woman in her early 30’s.

“Slim build, not too tall, height about five-nine no five-eight, weight around two hundred ten pounds, men’s medium. Let me correct that, a small medium once we get that vest out of the way.” Anna said as she walked around Joe.

“Excuse me ma’am, but you’re way off on my weight. By about thirty pounds. I know the winter uniform doesn’t show it, but I’ve got a swimmers build.” Joe corrected her.

“I like him Kelly. At least he has a sense of humor unlike the last four candidates you sent us.” Anna said with a smile.

“Up last we have Sue Metcafe. She’s our wardrobe expert.” Ramsy said ignoring Anna’s comment about the last four officers they had proposed.

“Take off your jacket, belt, vest, and shirt please. I need to get your measurements.” Sue told Joe as she pulled a cloth measuring tape from her around her neck. Shrugging his shoulders Joe did as she asked. “Hold out your arms.”

Over the next few minutes Sue took Joe’s measurements. “We can definitely work with him, Kelly. When he said he had a swimmer’s build he wasn’t lying. Though he does have slightly more muscle mass than a normal swimmer, but it’s all lean muscle.”

“What about the hips Sue?” Alex asked her.

“Now that his service belt is out of the way. I can tell that we’ll need to pad those out but not too much. Most of the pros that work the Oceanside stroll have been on high grade hormones for at least eighteen months. If he was working the Riverwalk stroll we could get away without padding his hips and ass.” Sue told him then frowned. “The problem is going to be his chest. How big do we need to go verses how far we can get away with.”

“Excuse me, ma’am, but what do you mean by that?” Joe asked her.

“Realistically we could give F-cup breasts, but you would look like a cartoon woman if we did that. On the other hand if we want to keep your look more realistic we shouldn’t go beyond a C-cup. The choice is up to you kiddo.” Anna explained.

“Let’s keep things in the realm of realistic. I know that this is an undercover operation, but most of the gals on the Oceanside stroll go for a more natural look.” Joe told them.

“From the sound of things Officer. You’ve spent a lot of time working the strolls as part of your beat. Is this correct?” Ramsy said in surprise.

“I did, but that was back during my first two weeks on patrol. My TO and I were assigned to a walking beat in Oceanside Park and Riverwalk Park. I got to know most of the working girls those areas. I also learned that there is a sort of hierarchy between the two strolls. The ones over on the Riverwalk stroll are hardcore drug users and one rehab from an OD. The ones that work the Oceanside stroll are the closest thing to hotel call gals as you can get and still be a street walker. Also most of them are only turning tricks until they’ve saved up enough for their SRS.” Joe explained for the four of them.

“Joe how many of the gals would recognize you?” Ramsy asked him.

“I doubt there are more than a handful of them that would recognize me. Hell the one time I went down to the Oceanside park on my day off none of the gals recognized me. Hell half of them gave me advice on how I could earn some extra money. As for the gals over at Riverwalk. I doubt they would even recognize me in uniform it’s been so long.” Joe confessed.

“This changes things slightly Kelly. With the right skin dye and prosthetic makeup we can change his looks completely. The problem is going to be time. It’ll take several hours each time we prep him for work.” Alex explained for Ramsy and Joe.

“Is there any way you could make the changes last for two to three weeks at a time?” Joe asked.

“Sure, but that means you’ll have to hide out from your neighbors.” Anna said quickly.

“No problem there. I live in a converted warehouse over on North tenth Ave. that I inherited from my grandparents. My neighbors don’t even know who I am thanks to my hours. I’m gone before they wake up and get home way after they do. The elevator is key controlled and only opens to your apartment.” Joe explained for them.

“Damn sounds like the perfect place to live. How much is your rent?” Anna asked him.

“Thankfully it’s rent controlled. Because there is no way I could afford it otherwise. The only downside is there is no off street parking.” Joe told her honestly.

“So where do you park your car?” Ramsy asked him.

“There’s a garage down the street we use. Rent is two-fifty a month. Between my condo and parking fees, plus utilities, my monthly expenses are around fifteen hundred a month. Doesn’t leave much for extras on a cops salary.” Joe confessed.

“If you’re looking for a roommate let me know.” Ramsy chuckled then turned serious. “Alex how much of a change are you thinking about?”

“Nothing too drastic, just enough to disguise Joe’s ancestry. As for the prosthetics we’ll use thirty day adhesives. This way Joe can still use his apartment and work the operation.” Alex said.

“Sounds good to me. The only problem is going to be a wardrobe for Joe.” Sue told them. “How much of a budget do I have to work with?”

“Depends on what you’re thinking Sue?” Ramsy told her.

“My as well go for trashy and play up the hooker look. Throw in several outfits for when she’s not working the stroll. The only problem will be her address. If her neighbors know that a man lives in the condo. They might get nosey at the hooker who just moved in.” Sue told them.

“No problem there. Per PD regulations I only have my first initial and last name on my mailbox. As for a doorman. We don’t have one right now.” Joe told them.

“Why not?” Asked Ramsy.

“The last one retired and the condo association hasn’t hired a replacement yet.” Joe explained.

“Okay. Let’s get to work people. Joe step behind the screen and strip please. We got a lot of work to get done.” Alex said with a smile. “Don’t worry Joe. We’ll be using a new system of bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems. Much more advanced than traditional makeup and prosthetics. Everything will return to normal within twenty-four hours of removal of the neural net as your body chemistry rebalances.”

Once Joe was down to his boxers Anna hand him a towel. “To protect you modesty.”

“First off. We’ll start with hair removal.” Anna told him.

“You got a razor? I didn’t agree to anything being waxed.” Joe said.

“No need for anything that barbaric, darling.” She produced a device that looked like a scanner, moving it slowly over his legs, arms, chest, and groin. Where it passed, hair simply vaporized, leaving his skin completely smooth.

“That’s impossible.” Joe said, leaning forward with interest.

“Targeted follicle deactivation. Much more thorough than traditional methods. it's good for ninety days. Don't worry your hair will grow back after those ninety days.” Anna explained.

“I look like a hairless cat.” Joe grunted. “A really pale, angry hairless cat.”

“Then we must make you a beautiful hairless cat.” Anna said with a smile.

Moving to his head, she first applied a bald cap that covered his hairline completely. The cap fit tightly, creating a smooth, scalp-like surface. Joe thought he could detect small filaments of electronics running through the cap’s structure.

Next came what looked like a container of thick, golden-brown paste. Anna began spreading it across his entire body with clinical thoroughness, working it into every inch of his skin from head to toe, and covering the bald cap.

“What the hell is this stuff?” Joe asked as the warm paste seemed to absorb into his skin, leaving behind a flawless golden-bronze complexion.

“Bio-adhesive pigmentation base. It bonds with your skin cells to produce melanin and provides the foundation for all our other modifications. Think of it as... biological primer.” Anna explained.

“This is like something out of a sci-fi movie.” Joe said, watching his pale complexion transform into a warm, radiant tan. “I look like I just spent a month in Cabo.”

Ramsy grinned. “Holy shit, you look like a completely different person already. You went from pasty Irish to golden god in like ten minutes.”

“The compound also allows our prosthetics to bond seamlessly with your body. Much more realistic than traditional adhesives.” Alex explained as he stepped behind the screen.

“Prosthetics?” Joe asked.

Alex smiled and revealed what looked like a selection of incredibly realistic body parts. “Don't worry, kiddo. You're going to love the results.”

“This keeps getting weirder by the second.” Joe said nervously.

Moving to his face, Alex began attaching several small prosthetic pieces. “First, we'll adjust your nose structure with this prosthetic overlay.” He said, carefully applying what looked like a second skin to make his nose more delicate and upturned. Similar prosthetics attached to his jawline, rounding and softening the angular masculine lines.

“Slight pinch now.” Alex warned, reaching for a tray of syringes.

“Ow!” Joe yelped as the first needle penetrated his skin. “What was that?”

“Bio-compatible filler in your cheeks and lips for definition.” Alex said as he continued, making precise injections. “And finally, a bit of micro-targeted Botox around your eyes and forehead to soften the masculine lines. Think of it as temporary plastic surgery.”

Joe watched in the mirror as his features seemed to shift and soften - his nose was more delicate, his lips fuller, his jaw rounded. The changes were subtle but dramatic.

Ramsy watched with delight. “Holy shit, you actually look like a chick. Like, a really hot chick.”

“This is so weird.” Joe said, touching his transformed face carefully. “I don't even recognize myself. I know that’s me, but it’s not me.”

“Wait until we’re finished.” Anna and turned her attention to the cosmetics. “Now, let me guess your heritage I’m thinking Latina. Yes, definitely Latina. You have the perfect bone structure for the exotic, passionate type.”

“Latina?” Joe squeaked. “I’m Irish and German!”

“Not with your new skin tone, Chica.” Anna said with a wink. “Trust me, this will be perfect.”

The cosmetics that followed were unlike anything Joe had ever seen. She began with dramatic winged eyeliner that extended far beyond his natural eye shape, creating an exotic, almond-eyed look. Heavy false lashes followed, so thick and long they cast shadows on his cheeks.

She used micro-needling to create perfectly shaped eyebrows, giving him elegant arches that framed his new eye shape. The contouring was masterful - highlighting his new cheekbones while creating shadows that made his face appear even more feminine. Finally, she applied a deep berry lip tint that made his enhanced lips look impossibly full and inviting.

“I can't even tell where the makeup ends, and my actual face begins.” Joe said, his voice tight with amazement and anxiety.

“That's the point, darling. Now for the body modifications.” Alex told him.

Alex carefully positioned breast prosthetics on the bio-adhesive foundation he’d applied earlier. They seemed to meld with Joe’s skin, becoming warm and surprisingly natural-feeling. They were a modest but noticeable B-cup, perfectly proportioned for his frame, complete with realistic brown nipples that stood proudly at attention.

“I can’t feel where they attach.” Joe said, prodding at what now appeared to be his chest. "They feel completely real.”

“Bio-neural integration. The prosthetics themselves have micro circuitry nerve endings that provides a bio-electrical feedback. Lime I said earlier they’re very sophisticated attachments. But your cap monitors when they’re touched and tells your brain you’re feeling it. Your nervous system is completely convinced they’re part of your body.” Alex explained as he held up a diagram of what was happening.

“Damn, you’ve got boobs already.” Ramsy said with obvious amusement. “Like, actual boobs.”

“They're not real!” Joe protested.

“They look real from here. Can you, like, feel them?” Ramsy asked.

“That’s the weird part, I can. It's like they're actually mine.” Joe admitted.

“Your new 'girls' will need this.” Anna announced, producing a black lace strapless bra.

“Absolutely not!” Joe protested.

“The prosthetics require proper support. Without them, nothing will sit correctly, and you'll be in considerable discomfort.” Alex told Joe bluntly.

Ramsy said impatiently. "Just put it on. We’ve already gone this far. Besides, it's not like anyone's going to see it.”

“YOU are going to see it!” Joe snorted.

“Joe you’ve been around other cops in nothing but your underwear in the locker room. They’ve seen you in your tighty-whities more times than I can count. This is basically the same thing.” Ramsy told him with a snort.

“How is this AT ALL the same thing?” Joe asked as he took the bra. The 34B black lace strapless bra with its structured cups and underwire support wasn't uncomfortable - somehow it felt natural, the weight of the prosthetic breasts distributed perfectly through the molded cups and silicone grip strips that held it securely in place.

Hip and rear padding followed the same process, specialized forms that bonded with the bio-adaptive base, creating dramatically feminine curves. The hip padding gave him wide, womanly hips, while the rear enhancement created what could only be described as a perfect, heart-shaped backside that would make any woman envious. His silhouette transformed from masculine and angular to soft and curvaceous.

“This feels so strange.” Joe said, running his hands over his new curves. “Damn I have... an ass now. Like, a real ass.”

“A great ass.” Ramsy added helpfully. “Seriously, you could bounce a quarter off that thing.”

“You’re not helping.” Joe sighed.

“I'm being supportive! You look amazing.” Ramsy said with a smile. She could tell that the transformation was starting to unsettle the young man.

“Now for the final body reshaping.” Anna produced what looked like a high-waisted body briefer with an open crotch. “Step into this, please.”

The device turned out to be a combination corset and underwear that extended from mid-thigh to just below his chest. Once he was inside, Anna activated it with her tablet.

“Oh god, what's happening?” Joe gasped as the device began to compress and reshape his torso. He could feel something tightening around his waist through some kind of bizarre mechanical process.

“The device creates your feminine silhouette while positioning your anatomy for proper clothing fit. It also inserts micro-bands under your skin to reinforce the waist compression.” Anna said.

“I can barely breathe.” Joe said, watching his reflection change as his waist narrowed dramatically as the garment squeezed him from mid-thigh to just below his chest.

“Beauty requires sacrifice, darling.” Alex snarked.

“This is the weirdest thing I've ever seen.” Ramsy said, thoroughly entertained. “Except for the crotch you look like you were born a girl. Like a supermodel... a really hot, bald supermodel.”

“Ah yes, the hair.” Anna said with a smile. “The finishing touch.”

She produced an elaborate wig of long, dark waves with subtle highlights that caught the light. But instead of simply placing it on Joe’s head, she carefully positioned it over the bald cap and activated something with her tablet. The wig seemed to meld with the bio-adaptive paste, and suddenly Joe could feel the hair as if it were growing from his own scalp.

Joe tugged gently at a strand and was amazed to feel the sensation on his scalp. “This feels real. Like it's actually my hair growing from my scalp.”

“Bio-neural integration with the embedded electronics in the cap. Much more natural than glue or clips. Notice how it falls naturally, as if you just left the salon.” Alex commented.

Alex was right, the hair had a perfect, bouncy blowout look that framed his face beautifully.

“This feels so wrong.” Joe muttered.

Ramsy said with obvious amusement. “It looks so right though. Seriously, you look better than half the girls on the force right now.”

“That’s not exactly a complement for me of the force.” Joe grunted.

“Hush you. You are gorgeous.” Anna said with satisfaction. “Now we train your movement patterns. You'll need to learn how your new body moves naturally.”

“Before we do that can I get something to cover my crotch?” Joe asked.

“Opps. Forgot your panties.” Sue said as she handed him the matching tong to his bra. After a quick lesson in tucking Joe was ready for the next phase. “Okay ready for training.”

Anna just smiled and produced several small electronic devices that looked like high-tech fitness trackers. “These will coordinate with the systems already embedded in your briefer and bald cap to provide movement guidance” she explained, attaching sensors to his wrists and ankles. The devices synced immediately with the existing electronics, tiny lights blinking in sequence.

“I've never worn heels in my life.” Joe said nervously as Anna handed him a pair of designer stilettos. Even as he put them on his feet Joe noticed that the heels were at least 6 inches. Joe’s sister would have called them ‘Cone Fuck Me’ pumps or CFMP for short.

“Do not worry, darling. The sensors will coordinate with the neural interface to make it more natural than you expect.” Alex said as Anna activated the sensor array with her tablet. “Now, walk to the far wall and back. Don't think about it - just move.”

Joe took his first tentative step and immediately felt the difference. His hips seemed to have a mind of their own, swaying in a way that felt completely foreign yet strangely natural. The heels forced his spine into a different curve, pushing his chest forward and his rear back.

“What is happening?” Joe asked, alarmed by how fluid the movement felt despite his conscious resistance.

“The sensors are providing micro-corrections to your nervous system.” Anna explained, making adjustments on her tablet. “Your brain is learning the movement patterns that match your new body structure. Soon you’ll be walking just like a runway model in Mailon.”

“Okay. Turn around and walk again.” She commanded when Joe had reached her. “This time, let your arms move naturally.”

This time was worse. His arms seemed to flow differently, hands positioning themselves with unconscious grace. His steps were shorter, more precise, and there was an undeniable sway to his hips that seemed to happen automatically.

“Why I can’t control this?” Joe said, his voice rising in alarm with each step he took. “My body is just doing these things on its own.”

“Holly shit, you're swaying.” Ramsy said with obvious shock. “Like, full-on seductress walk. This is absolutely incredible, Alex. Where the hell did you get your tech?”

“It was pioneered by True Reflections for Universal Studios. This tech is mostly used by stunt doubles. Though TR also runs a sideline business for people who want to see what they would look like as the opposite sex. From what I hear they’re biggest customers in that business are mothers with sons only who want to have a daughter for the day.” Alex told her honestly.

“Turn and pose at the wall.” Anna instructed when Joe reached the end of the room and stopped to turn around. “Just let the sensors guide you.”

Without thinking, Joe found himself executing a graceful turn, one hand naturally finding his hip, the other falling elegantly at his side. The pose felt effortless, completely feminine, and utterly horrifying for the young man.

“This is fucking insane.” He breathed, staring at his reflection in the mirrored wall. “I look like I've been doing this my whole life.”

“It’s muscle memory conditioning.” Anna explained with satisfaction. “Much more effective than trying to consciously remember how to move like a woman. You will be able to move through the entire operation with proper feminine grace.”

Anna had him practice sitting, standing, and walking for another fifteen minutes. Each movement became more natural, more unconsciously elegant. The way he crossed his legs when sitting, how he smoothed his hands over his hips when standing, the gentle sway when walking - it all felt increasingly automatic.

“How long will all this last?” Joe asked, disturbed by how right the movements felt.

“Normally it last for twenty-eight hours. Though in you case we went for the max of seven days for safety reasons. We could go for longer, but TR suggest no more than nine. You’ll go back to normal when you remove the bald cap.” Anna assured him, removing the sensors from his ankles and wrists. “Now, let's add your dress, and complete the transformation.”

The spandex mini dress slid on like it was made for his new body. It was striking in its elegant simplicity. A black turtleneck polo with long sleeves and a sweetheart cutout over his cleavage that hugged his torso perfectly, paired with an A-line skirt that hit just above mid-thigh on Joe. The luxurious fabrics complemented his new golden skin tone perfectly.

Anna added delicate gold jewelry. First were small hoop earrings, a thin chain necklace that drew attention to his décolletage, and a simple bracelet. The final touch was a small clutch purse that matched the dress perfectly. Looking in the mirror, Joe saw a sophisticated woman ready for an upscale event not for working a hooker stroll.

“I look like someone's ultra stylish girlfriend. Not a hooker.” Joe said, the words coming out naturally as he gazed at the finished product.

Ramsy grinned. “You look like MY ultra stylish girlfriend. This is perfect. This way you can work the hotels and the stroll with no problems.”

“I still think this is a terrible idea, but I agreed to go through with the assignment.” Joe sighed.

“Come on, where's your sense of adventure? Live a little!” Sue said as she returned with a fake fur jacket and a black leather Hobo purse. “I already transferred your cover ID and uc piece along with everything you’ll need to pass to this bag. I also put your keys and uc phone in here.”

"Thanks. Just out of curiosity. How long will all this last?” Joe asked nervously.

“It last until you remove the skull cap. Once it is removed no more than twenty-four hours.” Alex confirmed then explained. “As your body chemistry returns to normal, the prosthetics will detach, and everything will reverse.”

“What if something goes wrong?” Joe asked nervously.

“Nothing will go wrong, darling. We’re professionals. Now for the final touch.” Anna said with dramatic flair. She fitted what looked like a high-tech collar around his neck. “This device will change your voice temporarily.”

“Change it how?” Joe demanded.

“Just speak normally.” Anna said, activating the collar with her tablet.

“I don't understand.” Joe stopped mid-sentence. His voice was completely different. It was now higher and had a musical quality.

“Whoa, that’s some trippy shit.” Ramsy laughed.

“Say something else.” Anna instructed, adjusting the settings on the tablet further.

“This is so... extraordinary, no?” Joe stopped, horrified by the breathy, sultry quality that had crept into his tone. “Why do I sound like... like this?”

“The collar works with your larynx and vocal cords to raise the pitch of your voice, and syncs with the neural interface in your cap to give you cultural linguistic patterns - perfect for the passionate, fiery Latina type.” Anna explained, making final adjustments.

“But this is more than accent, no?” Joe asked, his brow furrowing. “My English... I sounds so different. Like I learned it as second language.”

“Ah, very perceptive. The system adjusts your vocal patterns to match your new identity. Your backstory has you being born in Buenos Aires. You’re twenty-one. Your family moved here when you were thirteen. The language patterns will feel completely natural.” Alex explained for Joe.

“Buenos Aires?” Joe repeated, the words rolling off his tongue with surprising familiarity.

“Trust me, kiddo. When people ask, you’ll know exactly what to say.” Ramsy told him. “Even though this the first time we’ve used the full system. We’ve use the voice and skull cap before. None of our UCs have been clocked.”

“But I do not even speak Spanish! How can I have accent for a language I do not know?” Joe asked as he brushed his hair behind his ear in confusion.

“The system doesn’t require actual knowledge, my dear. It simply adjusts your vocal patterns and speech rhythms to create the accent. Your English now sounds like it was learned second, even though it wasn’t.” Alex explained slowly for Joe.

“Damn, this is so messed up.” Ramsy mocked. "You sound exotic as hell but you’re still a guy underneath all that class.”

Anna stepped back, removing the vocal collar and surveying her complete transformation with obvious satisfaction. “Perfect. Absolutely perfect.”

Anna turned Joe toward a full-length mirror. “Meet Josephina.”

Joe stared at the reflection in shock. The woman looking back was stunning. She had elegant features, perfect curves, golden-bronze skin, and an undeniably feminine presence. When he turned, the movement was completely natural, unconscious feminine grace.

Ramsy exclaimed, staring at his transformed friend. “Holy fucking shit! You’re actually hot. Like, really, really hot. I mean, I'd totally hit on you if I didn't know you were Joe.”

“This is so... incredible, no?” Joe said, his new voice filled with wonder and terror. “I look like completely different person now.”

Ramsy grinned. "You look like someone I'd want to date. The Lt is going to flip when he sees the new you. We might have to put more UC in the field to cover you.”

“This is not funny anymore, Ramsy.” Joe said quietly.

“Are you kidding? This is the funniest thing that's ever happened! Wait until I tell everyone” Ramsy chuckled only to be interrupted by Lt Wetmore.

“You will not be telling anyone about this!” Wetmore snarled as he round the divider screen. “You will not endanger this UC for anything. Only you, me, and Friday will know her real ID.”

“Yes sir.” Ramsy said quickly as she realized that something was bugging her boss. “Has something happened to endanger our operation?”

“Not your operation, but Campbell’s. Some dipshit leaked details about his investigation into a known trafficker of China white.” Wetmore told them.

“Oh damn. Not good. Especially since some of those details are connected to my investigation.” Ramsy snarled as she looked over at Joe. “The call is all yours Joe. You can still back now.”

“I’ve gone this far. I might as well give the stroll a shot at least once.” Joe said.

“Then let’s get you wired up for tonight. Who knows? We might get lucky.” Ramsy said and led him out of the room and down the hall to surveillance.

-----tbc-----