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 4
Hospital visits.
University of Maryland Medical Center 10:30 am, 5 days later.

“Morning Joe.” Ramsy said as she and Friday entered Joe’s hospital room.

“Hay Kelly. Where the hell have you guys been? Staking out the nearest Dunkin Donuts?” Joe asked in a joking manner.

“I wish. The LT has had our asses sitting on a possible cocaine stash house waiting for a reason to get a search warrant. Finally got what we needed last night just before midnight. SWAT hit the house just after sunrise. Nailed them with more than two hundred kilos of uncut cocaine, over five hundred pounds of pot, and over five million in cash. Not to mention enough firearms to outfit an Infantry Platoon. I’m talking about AK forty-sevens, M-sixteens, a few Tech-nines, several shotguns and a case of grenades.” Friday told him with a smile. “This is one time the boys and gals in SWAT earned their paychecks.”

“Fuck. I would say so.” Joe grunted as he slowly walked across his room.

“You’re moving better today.” Kelly told him. “You got your sway back.”

“Thanks. The rehab specialist told me I should be moving the way I was during my undercover assignment in no time. Which with this body might be for the best.” Joe told them with a sigh.

“I take it the docs gave you more bad news.” Kelly said as she sat down at the room’s table.

“You could say that. They talked with the people at True Reflections. Seems their technology needs a working biofeedback to deactivate the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems. Which I don’t currently have.” Joe told them.

“Then just pull off the wig and replace the old cap with a new one. Problem solved.” Kelly said.

“That’s just it Kelly. They can’t remove the skull cap without scalping me first. Which is not an option right now.” Joe told her honestly.

“Why not?” Friday asked with real concern.

“The neural net has fused to my nerves. It is literally part of my nervous system now. Just like the rest of the bio-adaptive cosmetics and structural modification systems.” Joe then went on to explain his situation for the two Vice Detectives. When Joe finished explaining both knew and understood what Lt Wetmore told them a lot better. They also knew that Joe had a choice to make.

“Maybe I can give you some advice Joe. Kelly told me about your inheritance. How you own the building you live in. Take the medical payout and retire. You’ve sacrificed enough already. Thanks to your work we took down one of the largest drug rings to hit Baltimore in decades. You also helped to put an interstate serial killers behind bars.” Friday told him bluntly.

“Joe what did you want to be as a kid?” Joe asked out of the blue.

“I wanted to be a lawyer, but life took me down a deferent path. Why?” Friday answered.

“What about you Kelly? What did you want to be?” Joe asked her.

“Well that’s kind of hard to answer. I originally wanted to be a ballet dancer, but I broke my leg in my teens and never recovered enough to dance professionally. After that I wanted to be an EMT. Then one night I watched my best friend OD on some bad ecstasy. After that I wanted to take down every drug dealer I could. So I become a cop. Why are you asking Joe?” Kelly said.

“The only thing I ever wanted to be was a cop. Just like my father, my uncle, my grandfather, and my great grandfather. When I enlisted I had my choice of MOS. I picked MP. I did my time, came home and applied to the academy. I bet you didn’t know that I graduated second in my class. My scores were so damned good I could have applied to any city’s police force. I spent the last twelve months busting my ass. Dealing with the biggest hard ass TO on the force. I worked extra shifts with him just to prove I had what it took to be a good cop. Then your fucking undercover assignment came down the pipe. On my first night I got you more intel than any of you gather in six months. So no I can’t just retire Joe. I can’t just forget about my dream.” Joe told them as he stood up and started to pace the room. As Joe walked around both Kelly and Friday noticed his movements becoming more fluid, more graceful.

“Say Joe what are you thinking about right now?” Kelly asked with a smile.

“How much I want to be a cop. Why?” Joe asked as he stopped pacing. As he stood there Joe was practically posing. He looked like a Paris runway model posing at the end of the catwalk.

“Just that in the last few minutes you paced back and forth like you were walking a runway. Hell right now you’re posing the way a runway model would.” Kelly said with grin.

“Shit Cartwright. I know you’re a man, but in the last few minutes I’ve seen nothing but a high class lady walking around this room. One that I would be trying my damnedest to take to bed if I saw her on the street.” Friday admitted.

“It’s more than just that Friday. She reminds me of that Argentinian supermodel Zaira Nara. I doubt you two know who I’m talking about, but she was super-hot and as graceful as a ballerina. Not surprising really. Part of her training as a teen was as a ballerina.” Kelly told them.

“Sue and Anna said something about using a former supermodel as the model for my movements. They just never told me who. Though what does that have to do with the way I move?” Joe said.

“If my hunch is right you getting out of here in simple. Do you remember how you are moving during your undercover assignment?” Kelly asked him.

“Sure. I just had to stop resisting and let the movements come naturally.” Joe said then facepalmed hard enough to give himself a headache. “Oh for the love of little green men.”

“I wouldn’t say that kid. You just needed to remember is all. Just let your body do what it wants to do naturally. Sure your walk is sexy as fuck, but who cares. You look like a beautiful and exotic woman embrace it.” Friday told him.

“Thanks guys. So other than coming by to see how my PT is going what are you here for?” Joe asked them with a friendly smile.

“Well we thought you might want to know the Four Witches turned States Evidence against that shit bird Thornton. He then turned around and flipped on Georgiyevich, and the Dead Demons. The good news is you won’t have to testify at their hearings. Those kids you spotted working the stroll were also picked up during a sweep. The DA’s office showed an uncommon amount of common sense for once and got the girls enrolled in some special school over in Western Maryland.” Kelly told Joe with a smile.

“That would be the Garret School for Exceptional Girls, in Friendsville, Maryland. It’s a boarding school that takes in young girls with troubled pasts.” Joe told them with small grin.

“Um Joe how do you know about this school?” Kelly asked him.

“Remember when I told you I was born Frostburg? Well when I came home after serving in the Army. I heard all about the school from one of my cousins. She’s one of their teachers. Those girls will be well looked after.” Joe said with sad smile. “If it wasn’t for my age. I would enroll there myself. Just so I could take advantage of their medical staff.”

“What kind of school is this place?” Friday asked of Joe.

“Let’s just say they handle all types of girls.” Joe told them and changed the topic. “Did you guys find the Twisted Blue factory?”

“Found it two days ago. It was being run by the Dead Demons. They were set up to turn out a hundred pounds of Twisted Blue three times a week. The Feds were able to tie the distribution network to the Georgiyevich family. So they’ll be going down as well.” Kelly told him.

“Holy shit. That must have been a massive lab.” Joe said in surprise.

“It was more like a pharmaceutical factory. We’re not talking about your high school lab here. The place looked like it belonged to Bayer or some other big pharma company.” Friday told him.

“From the sound of things you guys have been putting a real dent in the drug trade lately.” Joe said with a smile for the two detectives.

“We might be but none of this would be happening if not for your undercover work. Your one night of working the Oceanside stroll has led to thirty-eight busts. I won’t even go into what the intel from the club uncovered. To be blunt Joe, you’re a trail blazer. Because of what you were able to do. Our makeup magicians have been working overtime. They’ve figured out how to use the tech from True Reflections for every type of uc operation possible and not just as women. Hell I even went undercover as man.” Kelly said smiling.

“Speaking of uc work we got some bad news for you. Somehow during the take down of the Four Witches and Thorton your cover id was blown. Josephina Espina is a known undercover cop. I hate to say this kid, but we can’t use you for undercover work anymore.” Friday told him.

“How the hell did this happen guys? This is the second time a UC’s cover has been blown in two months.” Joe demanded of the two detectives.

“We’re working on it, Joe.” All three officer turned to face the door as Lt Wetmore entered the room. “Trust me. As much as all of us hate them. Internal Affairs is investigating.”

“Do we really need to go that far sir? I mean it’s got to be something simple.” Kelly told him.

“I wish it was Ramsy. This last leak proves we’ve got a mole in the department. I’m not going to tell the rest of the division this but Cartwright and you two were directly affected by the leak. That’s why I’ve had you two pulling surveillance duty only. All three of your faces will be known to the drug dealers after today. Thorton got a hold of a redacted form of your records during discovery and released your pictures to the press. He may be a piece of shit but he’s still a defense lawyer.” Wetmore told the three officers. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here detectives. What brings you by other than taken a break on the clock?”

"Don’t worry, sir, we clocked out before checking on our UC. We thought Cartwright could use some company and wanted to see how his physical therapy is going. I also needed to ask him, as his union rep, if he’s considering the medical buyout or returning to patrol," Ramsy explained.

“Well I can shed some light on that front for both of you.” Wetmore said as he placed a folder in front of Joe. “I won’t pussyfoot around Joe. The Commissioner has approved your full medical retirement. He’s also approved your transfer to any patrol unit you want. You should know that your chances at making detective are almost zero.”

“What the fuck sir? Joe busted his ass for us and Downtown is going to fuck him over with patrol for the rest of his career. That’s bullshit.” Kelly snarled.

“It’s worse than that Ramsy. Joe got ‘injured’ in the line of duty. They can legally force him out if he doesn’t take one of the two options.” Friday reminded her.

“Oh fuck no! If the Commissioner wants to play that fucking game. The Union will be beating down his fucking door with enough lawsuits to bankrupt the city.” Ramsy snarled.

“Will you cool your jets Kelly.” Joe snapped then looked up at Wetmore. “I think the LT has more to say. I think there’s more going on here.”

“You’re right Joe. If you accept the patrol duty you won’t be the only one headed back to patrol. Ramsy and Friday will be Joining you.” Wetmore told them bluntly. At Friday and Ramsy’s looks of shock Wetmore explained. “Here’s the deal you two. Several districts are in need of training officers. Thanks to the leak you’re usefulness as Narcotics officers is over.”

“We can still work in surveillance boss.” Ramsy pointed out.

“Normally I would agree with you Ramsy. There is only one problem. Until the trials against Thorton and the Dead Demons are over you’re both sidelined. Mostly because of all the discovery motions filed by Thorton and his law firm. I won’t even go into the horse shit the Feds are pulling. To be blunt, the Chief of D’s is being forced to either put you on desk duty or send you over to patrol. Guess which option he picked?” Wetmore told them.

“Do we at least get to pick which patrol unit we’re assigned?” Friday asked him.

“That’s the only good news. You get your choice of Patrol Assignments, and you will be training officers. As for you Cartwright you’ll be reporting to the central district stables as soon as you’re cleared for duty.” Wetmore told them.

“God damn. Talk about giving us the dick while promoting us at the same time.” Ramsy grunted.

“It could be worse Ramsy. We could be stuck with desk duty. At least we get our choice.” Friday reminded her as he thought about which district he wanted. “Sir let the Chief know I’ll take the Northeast district. That way I’ll be closer to home.”

“I’m good with the Southeast district LT. I might as well give Romley a hand. Last time I checked she was the only TO in the Motorcycle patrol.” Ramsy said with a small smile.

“Thank you for understanding detectives. Once we find the leak we’ll let you plug it.” Wetmore told the two officers. “Cartwright I know that you might want to retire after you find out about the conditions the Commissioner has placed on you.”

“That’s where you’re wrong sir. I don’t care what I look like now. I still want to be a cop.” Joe told him bluntly.

“That’s very admirable Joe. You need to know something your doctors have informed the department that your situation can’t be reversed. If you want to continue as a patrol officer it will have to be as a female. You should also know that whoever this leak is let it get out that you’re transexual. Thorton and his firm are trying to paint you as a DEI hire or some horse shit. If they can discredit you our case may fall apart.” Wetmore told him honestly.

“Not that it matters to me sir. The shrinks have been pushing me to accept the fact that I’m stuck this way. If the Department wants to cover their asses in this whole fucking situation they can pay me to keep my mouth shut and live as a woman.” Joe told him bluntly.

“Don’t worry Joe. The mayor and city council have offered a settlement of five million. So long as you follow their script. If anyone outside of the department asks. You’re a transgendered woman working for the police as a patrol officer. You transferred from the Buenos Aires PD as part of an International Exchange Program.” When Joe heard Wetmore say International Exchange he stopped the Lieutenant.

“That won’t work sir. At least not for me. I won’t give up my citizenship as part of a cover up.” Joe told him bluntly.

“Then what do you suggest Joe?” Ramsy asked him.

“We use my undercover identification as the foundation for my new identity. The records indicate that I was originally from Buenos Aires, with the name listed as Josephina Cartwright rather than Josephina Espina, the name previously assigned by the department. The department was aware of my transition and assigned me to the Twisted Blue undercover operation accordingly. Any review of the records will show that the department has maintained their stance on equality hiring of minors.” Joe explained for Wetmore with a sly smile.

“What about your property Josephina?” Ramsy asked him.

“If anyone asks I tell them the truth. I inherited it from my grandfather.” Joe explained.

“What about your family Josephina?” Friday asked.

“Let me handle that. They already know that I’m in the hospital. Sorry sir but I had to let them know. My Aunt Carla called my cell yesterday. She’ll be here later today to visit. I’m sure that after I explain the situation. They’ll get behind my play.” Joe said thoughtfully.

“I think I can sell this to the mayor and the council. I know that I can sell it downtown with the Commissioner and Chiefs. Though I’ll need to call in a few favors with the FBI.” Wetmore said.

“Why call in any favors sir. They fucking owe me for what happened with their god damned serial killer. Those mother fuckers knew that bastard had crossed state lines and didn’t tell us. Instead they knowingly let us stumble around in the fucking dark. We ended up with four bodies, and a total of twelve assault victims that we know of. All of which were raped. The real bitch I would have been his next victim. The fucking FBI owes me and the department big time. Don’t say they don’t LT. I’ve been watching the news every night since I woke up. There hasn’t been one fucking word said about a serial rapist or killer on any of the channels. Not even those slugs over at Clenton New Network have said anything. I figure FBI is going out of their way to keep shit out of the news. If they want to keep it out of the news. Then they can provide me with everything I need to continue living my life as a cop.” Josephina said with a nasty grin.

“Damn it Joe. Chill out.” Kelly whispered.

“It’s Josephina or Josie with an IE for short.” Josephina said with a friendly smile.

“Gotcha Josie.” Friday said with a chuckle then asked. “What property is Ramsy talking about?”

“His grandparents left him a covered warehouse downtown. You should see his, I mean her, condo. We’re talking about up scale big time.” Kelly said with a grin.

“That explains Josie’s address,” Wetmore said with a laugh. “I hate to say this about any officer under me, but I briefly suspected he was corrupt, and so had IA run a background check.”

“Just out of curiosity Josie. Are there any vacancies in that building of yours?” Friday asked.

“Sorry detective but not at this time. Maybe in a few months.” Josie told him.

“Excuse me Cartwright, but just how much do you earn off your building?” Wetmore asked.

“To be honest sir, I don’t know. Before you ask why. Let me explain. While I own the building outright, I still have to pay property taxes. Then there is the upkeep of the public areas. Plus a whole lot of other things. That’s why I have a property management company that specializes in handling everything from the Condo Association fees to rents. After they pay for general building upkeep, any condo repairs, taxes, utilities, and insurance. I clear around nine grand a month.” Joe told the LT honestly then chuckled. “Though I only see three grand of that as the rest is put in an IRA for later in life.”

“I got to say Josie. For a young officer you got your head on straight.” Wetmore grunted.

“Sir I had to have my head on straight. I was eighteen when I learned a very important life lesson. Everyone has an expiration date stamped on their ass.” Josie chuckled sadly.

“That’s right. I forgot you’re a combat vet.” Wetmore said as he rubbed his shoulder. “I wasn’t much older than you when I learned that same lesson in Iraq.”

“Damn LT we didn’t know you were a vet.” Friday said.

“Joined right out of high school. I did four years as a Cav Scout with the Seventh Cav. Came home and applied to the academy. That was just over twenty-one years and two ex-wives ago.” Lt Wetmore joked with his officers.

“Hopefully it won’t take me that long to figure things out.” Josie snarked then asked. “By the way LT shouldn’t you be coming up on Captain?”

“Captain’s bars aren’t in my future Josie. Back shortly after I got promoted to LT I did something really fucking stupid. I let a suspect play the system and he walked on a murder charge. Only he didn’t walk far as the local gang beat his ass to death. IA cleared me of any wrongdoing, but I still ended up with a letter of reprimand in my jacket.” Wetmore told them.

“No wonder you’re always riding our asses about documenting our evidence and getting warrants. You don’t want one of us screwing up and pulling something similar.” Friday said sagely.

“Pretty much Friday. Look you and Ramsy are two of the best officers I have. Ramsy’s got the drive, and you got the experience. Between the two of you, you’ve got this crazy synergy going on that just breaks cases wide open. If you were in Homicide or Major Crimes you would be rock stars.” Wetmore told them before he turned to Josie. “Cartwright all I can say is keep doing what you’ve been doing. You’ll make Sergeant in no time. You’ve got a good head on your shoulders.”

“Yes sir. I do got one question. It concerns the mole.” Josie told him.

“I’ll go ahead and tell you what I can about the investigation Officer Cartwright. Which isn’t much as IA is handling that whole investigation. What they do know is that the leak isn’t anyone in Vice. At least not directly. IA cleared all the detectives and UCs currently working in Vice. That still leaves a shit load of people that had access.” Wetmore told him with a frown.

“Sir I know it’s not my place but have the rat squad concentrate their investigation on the evidence lock up personnel.” Josie said with a frown.

“Why there Josie?” Wetmore asked as he pulled out a note pad.

“Simple sir. They’re the only ones with ties to ours, Cambell’s, and Samuel’s cases sir. Them and the guys over in surveillance.” Josie explained for the Lt.

“Shit. I never saw it. There’s also the guys over in cyber.” Wetmore snarled.

“Why would cyber have access to Vice cases sir?” Kelly asked him.

“It’s part of the Commissioner’s new Combined Policing Initiative. All cases that have possible ties to Organized Crime is now run through cyber division on the off chance there might be an internet connection. Which makes them a problem for the Feds.” Wetmore explained slowly.

“Talk about fucking over the locals. Does the Commissioner realize what he’s doing or is he just fucking stupid?” Friday snarled clearly let his anger over the situation fill his voice.

“What do you expect from a desk jockey who spent his entire career in cybercrimes? Everything has to be connected by the internet.” Kelly snapped.

“Look, I know that the three of you are pissed. I get that and understand your reasons.” Wetmore was saying when there was a knock on the room door. “We’ll pick this up back in the bullpen.”

“Excuse detectives but it’s time for Officer Cartwright’s physical therapy.” A nurse said as she pushed a wheelchair into the room.

“No problem nurse. We were just leaving.” Kelly said as she stood up. “Is there anything we can get for you Josie?”

“A change of clothes and a washer kit. I got a pair of sweats in my locker. These gowns are kind of drafty.” Josie snarked as he flapped his hospital gown.

“Anything else?” Friday asked.

“I could really go for a number three from El gato genial on North Front Street.” Josie said grinning.

“One double burrito meal coming up. I’ll have Kipling swing by and pick it up for you before he comes in for the evening shift.” Wetmore told him with a grin of his own before asking. “By the way Josie. How did you find the Cool Cat?”

“Me and Nolan responded to a dine and dash at that location. After taking the report we took our a meal break. I got to say they have some of the best Tex-Mex in the city.” Josie smiled.

“If you like the Cat then you got to try the Spanish Mission on the corner of East Clement St and Cooksie Street. They have the best old world Spanish cuisine in Baltimore.” Kelly countered.

“No way. If you want real Spanish food there is only one place to go. That’s the Spanish Princess on Keystone Ave in Television hill.” Friday said offering his own opinion.

“I hate to be the buzz kill detectives, but we really need to get going. Josephina’s PT therapist wants to try something new today.” The nurse told them as she patted the wheelchair.

“Understood nurse. Ramsy, Friday, let’s go. You still need to report into tech support, and I got reports to go over from last night’s raid. Cartwright the sooner you get PT to sign off the sooner you get the fuck back to duty.” Wetmore told the others.

“Yes sir. See you tomorrow Josie.” Friday said before leaving.

“Later Josie. I’ll swing by this evening after shift with your sweats and shower.” Ramsy said before giving her a kiss on the cheek and leaving.

“Later guys.” Josie called out to them before looking up at Wetmore. “Remember what is said about those mushroom farmers sir. The leak has to be there.”

“Don’t worry Josie. I won’t forget.” Wetmore said as he followed his detectives out.

“So what does Torquemada want to try today?” Josie asked as he sat down in the wheelchair.

“I don’t know Josephina. I was only told to bring you down an hour early today.” The nurse told him as she pushed Josie through the hallway to the elevator. As they waited the nurse gave Josie some good news. “Before we head down to PT, I was told to swing by the gift shop. Tom said you can pick up some workout clothes.”

“Cool. Do they have sweats?” Josie asked as the elevator doors opened.

“This is a University Hospital. I’m sure we can find you something. Though we might want to look in the women’s section.” The nurse told Josie as she pulled Josie into the elevator.

“They won’t happened to carry bras and panties as well?” Josie asked her.

“They only carry cotton, but the store does have panties and bras.” The nurse told him.

“Anything will be better than going commando.” Josie snarked.

“I feel you girlfriend.” The nurse said just as the elevator stopped on the ground floor. A few minutes later Josie was being pushed into the gift shop. At first Josie was surprised by the selection. Then he remembered that the hospital was a University Hospital. That meant they had both an emergency room and trauma center. That meant there was always people in need of clothes following discharge or hospital approved sleepwear. After finding a 4 pack of women’s Hanes, 2 bras, a cotton nightgown, a 6 pack of yoga socks, 2 pink with white trim yoga outfits Josie had the nurse push her over to the cashier. Only then did Josie realize he had no way to pay.

“Just show the cashier your hospital ID band. Everything will be charged to your room.” The nurse told Josie with a smile. Shrugging his shoulders Josie held out his wrist when the total was rung up. Josie was actually surprised by the total because it was only 78 dollars. With his hospital clothes in hand the nurse pushed Josie down to the PT lab. As they entered the PT lab Josie groaned as he spotted Tommas Thorn or as Josie called him Torquemada, the Grand Inquisitor.

“Thanks Marry, I’ll take him from here. I’ll see you in about an hour from now.” Tom told the nurse as moved behind Josie.

“Sure Tom. Have fun.” Marry said and left.

“Okay Torquemada what fresh hell do you have for me today?” Josie asked Tom as he pushed him over behind a curtained off area.

“First we need to get you dressed for your therapy. I talked with your undercover seamstress over at the department. So these should fit you.” Tom said as he placed a shopping bag in Josie’s lap. Wondering what was inside Josie opened the bag. Inside he found six pairs of white dance tights, six black leotards, a pair of ballet slippers, and a pair of high heels. He also found six gaffs. “I’ll leave you to get dressed. Wear the slippers and bring the heels.”

“Okay this is off the wall.” Josie sighed.

“Look Joe, I’ve been thinking. You’re whole problem is you’re fighting the way your body moves naturally. I talked with the people at True Reflections. From what I understand the makeup team used bio-feedback and a behavioral modification program to train your muscles so you would move like Argentinian supermodel Zaira Nara.” Tom told him as he stepped around the curtain to give Josie some privacy.

“About that. Before I came down here my partner made a comment about that. It seems that when I’m not thinking about it I naturally move like her.” Josie told Tom as he stood and removed the hospital gown. Taking out one of the gaffs Josie quickly tucked and pulled the gaff in place.

“According to True Reflections you should have reverted to your normal movement patterns when the neural network shorted out. But I think it fixed your natural movement patterns in super model mode. What we’re going do today is test that theory.” Tom said.

“And how is me dressing in tights and a leotard going to do that?” Josie asked as he pulled a pair of tights up around his waist. Next came the leotard. “I mean it’s not like I don’t trust you.”

“But you don’t trust me. Don’t worry I get where you’re coming from Joe. I know what I’m going to suggest is going to sound crazy, but I found a bunch of old training videos of this Zaira Nara. What I want to do is show you these videos and then have you copy her. The first two videos are of her in a ballet studio stretching out.” Tom told him just before Josie pulled the curtain back. “Damn. Please excuse me Joe but fuck you’re hot. If I didn’t know.”

“You’d be all over me. Yah I get it. So drop it already Torquemada. By the way the name is Josie with an I.” Josie snarled.

“Sorry about that Officer Cartwright. That was totally unprofessional of me and a total dick move.” Tom said by way of apology.

“Forget about it Tom. I’m still getting used to the way I look. I know that I was undercover this way, but it was supposed to be temporary.” Josie said as she slipped on the ballet slippers. “Oh I almost forgot. The name’s Josie with an I.”

“Okay Josie we’ll start off slow.” Tom said as he set up a laptop. For the next ten minutes Josie watched Zaira slowly go through the classical ballet stretches. “Okay Josie I’m going to turn on some classical music. Just listen to the music and try to perform the stretches.”

“Okay. I still think you’re crazy, but I’ll give anything a try once.” Josie said and moved over to an exercise map laid out on the floor. When he heard the music Josie just let his body move in time with the beat. To Josie’s utter amazement his body moved in harmony with the music. After fifteen minutes Josie moved over to a set of parallel bars. Once again Josie just let his body go and listened to the music. Soon he was working his way through all of the classical ballet bar exercises. When he finished at the bar Josie was ready for center work. Only Tom stopped the music. “Holy shit. They did more than just program your muscles, so you move like Zaira.”

“What do you mean Tom?” Josie asked not liking where this might be going.

“I don’t know how they did it, but TR tech actually implanted years of ballet and model training in your subconscious. I know it was supposed to be temporary, but all that knowledge is now permanently a part of your subconscious. When you try to walk like you used to your muscles and subconscious is fighting the way you want to move. Do you understand?” Tom asked Josie.

“It’s like when Alex and Sue were first programing my movements. Are you saying I just need to move and forget about how I move?” Josie asked him bluntly.

“Pretty much. If you don’t believe me just walk to the far end of the room and back. Don’t think about it just do it.” Tom ordered Josie. With a shrug of his shoulders Josie did as Tom asked. It wasn’t until he was halfway back that Josie noticed himself in the wall mirrors. He was moving with the same fluid grace he had during his time undercover.

When Josie reached the end of the room, he picked up the high heels and changed his shoes. Without any prompting, Josie walked to the far end and back, observing his movements in the mirrors out of the corner of his eye. This self-awareness marked a shift in his approach to physical therapy. For the next hour, Josie did more than simply walk around the room; he practiced sitting, standing, and posing. Each movement became progressively more natural and unconsciously elegant. The way he crossed his legs when sitting, the smooth motion of his hands over his hips when standing, and the gentle sway in his walk all reflected an effortless grace. These actions felt increasingly automatic, as if they were ingrained in his muscle memory.

Through this process, Josie realized that by letting go of his anxieties and simply allowing his body to move, all the difficulties he previously experienced with movement disappeared. The transformation was a result of embracing his new identity and trusting in the instincts that had been programmed into her subconscious.

During his physical therapy session, Josie experienced two significant breakthroughs. The first was a profound shift in his self-perception. As he practiced in the leotard and tights, garments originally intended to assist with his stretching he found that they highlighted his feminine figure. No matter how hard she tried, Josie could no longer see a man reflected back at him in the mirrors. Instead, she saw a beautiful and exotic woman with an impressive physique.

The transformation was not just physical; it was mental as well. By the third time Josie walked up and back across the room, she began to think of herself in the feminine. Where once she used masculine pronouns and thoughts, she now naturally referred to herself as "she" and "her." This internal acceptance marked a major step forward in her journey of self-discovery and adaptation.

Josie also realized deep down that before the neural network finally shorted out it imprinted on her subconscious a total new life. Not just any life but a female life. While she might not have the memories of Zaira Nara she might as well be her doppelganger. At least as far as her movements, mannerisms, speech patterns, and tastes went. She want to be as much like Zaira Nara as possible.

“Okay Josie. Your time is up. You can go ahead and get changed.” Tom said at just before noon.

“Thanks Tom but I’ll just wear this and the ballet slippers back to my room.” Josie told him as she sat down and changed her shoes. Before she sat down in the wheelchair Josie placed everything in the same bag. “Thanks for all your help Tom. You may not know it, but you did more than help me with getting back on my feet.”

“Don’t take this the wrong way Josie, but I figured as much. The more you moved around the more you moved like the lady you appear to be.” Tom told her then tapped the side of his head. “I may only be a physical therapist, but I’ve helped more people with what’s up here than the shrinks.”

“How’s that?” Josie asked.

“Because a lot of people who have physical disabilities also have a mental block. Sometimes I have to get them out of their heads before we can really start working on the physical problem.” Tom told her honestly. “In your case. You kept looking for the man in a gown but were seeing a half-naked woman instead. That sight was throwing everything off. Not only with how you moved but with the way you saw yourself.”

“Is that why you had me wear the leotard and tights today? To force me to see the woman?” Josie asked him with real surprise.

“Pretty much. I figured if you were confronted with the harsh truth. You would figure shit out on your own and the rest would fall into place.” Tom said as an orderly entered the lab. “And here’s your ride. I know you think you’re ready to walk back to your room on your own, but you’re still recovering from a comma. That means a wheelchair for all transport between the labs and your room until your release date.”

“Fine. I’ll deal for now.” Josie sighed and waited for the orderly to push her back to her room. “See you tomorrow Tom.”

“Maybe, maybe not, Josie. I got other patients. Though if I’m not here my replacement will have a workout waiting for you. Oh and be sure to wear the leotard and tights. Also bring the slippers and heels. Until you’re discharged I want you going through those ballet exercises every day. It may not seem like it, but they help get you in the right mind set for what we’re doing here.” Tom said as he walked her to the door.

“And exactly what are we doing?” Josie asked.

“Reminding your mind and body in how to move.” Tom said before turning back to the lab.

When Josie got back to her room the first thing she did was to take the first shower she’d been allowed in days. After drying off Josie dressed in a fresh gaff, panties, socks, and one of her yoga outfits. She had just gotten the leggings and matching sports bra on when her lunch arrived. It wasn’t the burritos she wanted but it still killed her hunger. After eating Josie asked for a brush or a comb to take care of her hair. When she first woke up it was only a few inches long, now her hair reached clear down to her collar. As she ran the brush through her Josie could have sworn she felt it going longer with each stroke. Only she knew that had to be impossible.

“Knock, knock.” His Aunt Carla said before she saw Josie sitting off to the side in a chair watching TV. “Oh excuse me Miss. I was looking for my nephew Joe Cartwright’s room.”

“Come on in Aunt Carla. You’re in the right place.” Josie said as she turned off the TV.

“Where’s Joe, Miss? Down have some test run?” Carla asked as she entered the room.

“It’s me, Aunt Carla. I know I don’t look like it, but I really am your nephew Joe.” Josie said as she got up and closed the door.

“Verry funny young lady. Now where’s Joe?” Carla demanded.

“Aunt Carla it really is me. I can prove it.” Josie said as she opened up her phone and showed her the tame lap video Alex had made for her of the transformation. When the video finish Carla gave Josie a funny look. “What?”

“When you were nine. Where did you go for summer vacation the summer before your senior year in high school?” Carla asked out of the blue.

“You took me Disney World.” Josie answered automatically.

“What happened on Space Mountain?” Carla asked him.

“We got stuck halfway through the ride near the top.” Josie answered with a smile.

“What did you and Beth do together on the last day?” Carla asked with a grin.

“We did the Princess for a Day. Beth dressed up as Anna, and I was Elsia.” Josie confessed.

“God lord. You really are Joe.” Carla gasped then grabbed Josie in a hug only to pull beck in surprise. “Those don’t feel like they’re fake.”

“Because they’re not Aunt Carla. I think it’s best if I take things from the top.” Josie told her aunt and led her over to the chairs. Over the next hour and half Josie told her aunt everything. From the undercover assignment to the attack and finally how the attack lead to her current condition.

“I don’t know what to say Joe. As fantastic and impossible as this all sounds. I’m forced to believe it. Simply because the proof is right there in front of me.” Carla said when Josie finished. “Though I do have one question. If the doctors were able to remove the prosthetics why do you still look and sound the way that you do?”

“I could give you all the technical mumbo jumbo, Aunt Carla, but the simple answer is that my body is somehow stuck in a hyperactive state. For some reason, my body’s chemistry matches that of a teenage girl. The doctors and the techs from True Reflections say it’s like my whole system was reset. There are also a few cosmetic changes they couldn’t remove before the neural net short-circuited, so what you see is basically permanent. It’s not just how I look. It’s my voice, my mannerisms, even my metabolism are completely different now. It’s like my body has been reprogrammed and no one really knows how to reverse it.” Josie explained.

“I see. Has the department classified this as a line of duty injury?” Carla asked him.

“Yes ma’am. I’ve already turned down the medical retirement.” Josie told her then explained his reasoning. The whole time Carla just listen and nodded her head.

“Well if your Union Rep couldn’t talk you into retiring I know I can’t. Though you do know that once the press leaks your story your chances at detective go out the window.” Carla told her.

“I know that Aunt Carla, and it doesn’t bother me. Grandpa spent his whole career working a beat. Hell great grandpa never made it pass Patrolman three and he retired from the force after thirty years. Uncle Rick worked patrol right up to the day he had his heart attack. Uncle Ronny is still patrolling the highway only as a Lieutenant. Being a patrolman isn’t an end just another path.” Josie said then told her aunt about joining the Horse Mounted patrol.

“If you’re going to be use in a publicity campaign anyway by the mayor and Downtown. Then you couldn’t go wrong with Mounted patrol. Though are you sure you don’t want to take the medical dear? No one would blame you.” Carla said with real concern.

“I’m sure Aunt Carla. Besides there is no way I can just quit now. Not after busting my ass for the last nineteen months.” Josie told her honestly. “Besides can you think of anyone better suited for mounted patrol than me?”

“Actually yes I can. Sue and Beth were always better riders. At least when it came to Jumping or Dressage.” Carla told her with a smirk. “Now Steeplechase on the other hand there isn’t a better rider in all of Western Maryland.”

“Except for the Wolf family. Those women are crazy.” Josie complained good naturally.

“Doctor Wolf and her daughters have to be the best for what they do, Josie. In the last six years those three women have trained more than fifty horses for police work through their equestrian therapy work over at the school. Hell they even trained my prize jumper.” Carla told her.

“I thought you trained North Star.” Josie said referring to her aunt’s prize Tennessee Walker.

“Nope. Picked him up at a charity auction for the school. Speaking of charity auctions. The Garett county Four-H is holding an auction next month. Want me to pick you up one of Doctor Wolf’s horses if there are any for sell?” Carla said to her.

“No thanks Aunt Carla. I still have to get the shrinks and PT to sign off before I can return to duty. Even then I have to compete six weeks of training before they’ll let me go out on patrol. Then I have to have special permission to use my own horse.” Josie reminded her aunt. The whole they talked Carla watched Josie like a hawk. Waiting to spot some movement that screamed man.

“Josie, tell me about this model those technicians used to model your movements.” Carla said.

“All I can say is that Zaira Nara is a classy lady with a classical ballet background.” Josie said then chuckled softly. “I learned that during my PT this morning. Why are asking?”

“Child if those idiots used Zaira Nara as the guideline for your undercover. Then you won’t have too many problems on the back of a horse. Her husband Jakob von Plessen is one of the world’s premier jockeys and horse trainers. Trust me, that man taught Zaira how to ride. You’ll probably ride even better now.” Carla told Josie.

“How do you figure that Aunt Carla?” Joise asked.

“You said they basically ‘downloaded’ her movements into your subconscious. Well the why you walk, sit, and stand translates into the way you ride a horse. Which for you is a good thing. Zaria Nara is one of the finest horsewoman in Argentina.” Carla told her.

“I hope you’re right, Aunt Carla. Because once I’m cleared for duty. I report to the stables for Mounted duty.” Josie told her with a smile.

“When will that be?” Carla asked.

“If today’s PT was any indication. Sometime in the next two weeks.” Josie said with a smile. The first real smile in the last several days.

“There’s the Joe that I know.” Carla said and patted Josie’s knee before looking at the room clock. “And as much as I hate to say this dear.”

“I understand Aunt Carla. You got a long drive ahead of you.” Josie said then added. “You know you can always stay at my place.”

“I would love to Josie, but I got to get back home. I’m boarding a mare that’s ready to drop her foal any minute day now.” Carla said as she stood up.

“Yah you definitely need to head home. I want pictures of the foal once they’ve been dropped.” Josie told her.

“If I didn’t change your dippers. I would swear you were born a girl.” Carla said with a grin.

“Why do you say that?” Josie asked.

“Because there are times when you act like every girl I know around horse.” Carla chuckled before giving Josie a hug. “Take care of yourself dear and listen to your doctors.”

“Yes ma’am.” Josie grinned.