Dear Readers, Here is a new chapter. This novel is coming to a close. Before the story ends, what would you like to see? I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am rewriting this story. Thanks.
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Twenty-Two
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Teri was staring at the mirror in their bedroom. She saw Jenn stop to squeeze her shoulder from behind.

“What’s the matter, Rock Star? You look glum.”

Teri shook her head. “My body is getting out of control. I’m not feeling comfortable in my skin. I’m changing shape way too fast.”

Jenn came up from behind and squeezed her around the waist. “You feel delicious but you just said the solution, shape wear.”

“Shape wear?” Teri looked at her strangely.

Jenn reached out and pulled on her bra strap. “Sure. See how tightly that’s cutting into your flesh. Your foundation garments are the wrong size. You need new stuff that feels comfortable. C’mon. I’ve got a couple of hours between classes, let’s go shopping.”

Teri was shaking her head. “Ouch.”

“Ouch?”

Teri looked down at the floor and shook her head. “You know. Public stuff. As in dressing rooms and trying stuff on. Yuk.”

Jenn saw the panic in her eyes. “Aw. Is my baby being shy? You’re going out with me. It’s going to be okay. We’ll make it fun.”

Teri wiped one eye. She hated confrontation. “Well, going out in public is not my fav. I don’t like people staring. You know that under the microscope feeling like I’m a strange bug!”

Jenn plucked at her hair. “Says the girl with the chrome punk style haircut.”

“You know I did that for the stage. It was a Wildcats thing. I played a part! I’m not sure if I’m ready to walk the streets.”

Jenn realized what Teri was frightened about. “Okay. We can play around and give you a bob. I’ll go out and buy a black rinse. Remember how cool that two-color look turned out.”

Teri nodded. “But that was still all about getting up on stage and performing.”

“Well, I hear you. How about a change? Do you want a different color?”

Teri looked her in the eyes. “Do you think that could help? As in being anonymous?”

Jenn smiled. “Honey, we’re in West Philly, a college town! In this area, you’re just another teen girl. You forget, you’re not alone standing on stage. It’s a crowded city. We can go down to Rittenhouse Square and shop till you drop. Let’s try the bob, and then you can judge.”

Teri and Jenn worked together to part her hair in the middle and curl it around the sides of her face. Teri looked carefully in the mirror, then shrugged. “What do you think?”

Jenn kissed her. “I think you’d be surprised to see how many women out there have brightly colored hair. C’mon, let’s get you dressed and go shopping.”

Teri picked out her baggiest jeans and tee. She matched it up with a hoodie. “Okay?”

Jenn looked at her girlfriend, shook her head, then smiled. “Yeah, if you’re doing a Goth Vampire hiding from the Sun look. Everything you’ve chosen is black and oversized. Personally, it makes your hair color stand out and draws more attention. You’re not even close to conforming to the norm. Can I help?”

Teri looked at herself and shrugged. “Sure. Throw me a lifeline.”

Jenn tossed her a pair of brown panties and a nude colored bra. Then she threw her a pair of brown Capris and a white T-shirt.

After Teri put on the bra and panties, Jenn ran her hand over her butt and then loosened the bra straps. “Uh-huh. You definitely need to move up a size. After we get you proper underwear, then we can shop for some everyday stuff to make you feel more normal-looking. C’mon. We’re going to go do your favorite thing, a bra fitting!”

Teri moaned, but knew it was the only way she could be comfortable and get out of the house. Even with these clothes on, she felt like a stuffed sausage.

Jenn caught a cab and they rode downtown. They were in Rittenhouse Square, a shopping area with big stores everywhere. They walked into the double doors of Jersey Girl and immediately went over to the lingerie section. Jenn walked right up to a salesgirl and pointed with her thumb. “She needs to be measured for a bra.”

The girl looked up and smiled. “Of course. Hang tight.”

A few minutes later, an older woman came up with a tape measure around her neck and a pad of paper in her hand. “Hi, I’m the manager, Mrs. Abbott. All set, Teri?”

Teri immediately turned pale, wondering how she knew who she was until she turned and saw a full-sized poster of each of the Wildcats on the walls. Sighing, she followed the woman towards a wall of dressing rooms.

She watched as the manager pulled out a key and opened a door to a large dressing room. “Come on in, honey. Strip down to your underwear.”

Teri took off her clothes, and Jenn took them from her. She watched as her girlfriend sat down on a bench. Teri did her best to block out everything that was happening. She was trying to place her mind in the forest where her two young Vampire lovers met for the first time.

Teri could feel the woman’s hands on her body directing her. ‘Arms up, turn around, inseam time, hold out your hands, good work.’

After running her tape around Teri everywhere, Mrs. Abbott smiled. She held up her pad. “I’m forwarding all these numbers down to Barbara Neuman at our Jersey Girl design studio. You’re a small B cup and a 34 band. Give me a minute. You’re still a five in panties, but your hips measured 35 inches. You’re going to need to try on different styles to see which ones feel best. Just leave your old panties on while you try on the new ones.”

When she left, Jenn patted her on the shoulder and gave her a loving squeeze. She followed the woman out of the room and whispered, “Good job.”

Teri stood there in her underwear. She knew her cup size had increased from a full A to a small B. She cursed silently, wondering how all this was happening to someone who, a year ago, wasn’t concerned with panty or bra sizes. A year ago, Teri believed she was a boy and was afraid to do more than kiss Jenn. Writing music and playing video games kept her busy.

When Jenn returned, she handed her a bra. The first thing Teri thought was how light and transparent it was. After she put it on, she looked down to see her breasts totally visible through the lace and small bits of fabric. She blushed as she felt her nipples harden.

Jenn was adjusting the back. “Good. This fits you well. How does it feel?”

Teri nodded. “I feel totally exposed, but it’s more comfortable.

“Okay. That’s just the style. Now, try on the matching panties.”

Teri was in a fog of total humiliation as she pulled on the panties. She let out a sigh of relief, knowing her pubic hairs were trimmed and she didn’t look like what Jenn called a farm girl.

“Perfect!” Jenn gently turned Teri towards the three-paneled mirror and turned on the spotlights. Teri stood there, examining a strange, unfamiliar body. Gone was the gawky, skinny kid who was in high school. Instead, she saw a sexy, shapely young woman looking back at her. Unconsciously, she stood up on her tiptoes to marvel at how her legs looked. She touched the bra and panties, noting how sheer and revealing they were. Teri looked at Jenn.

She smiled at her cute girlfriend. “What do you think?”

Teri shook her head. “Uh, you don’t want to know.”

Jenn laughed. “Good. Then I’m going to pick out a few more sets.”

When Jenn returned, she showed Teri what she’d picked out.

Teri shook her head. “I can see where this is going. All this stuff looks like something that Emma wears on her MyFans page. You’re dressing me up like your fantasy girlfriend.”

Jenn kissed her. “You are my real girlfriend. Emma is my dream. You look very tasty in those and are going to wear them home. I like knowing you’re so beautiful.”

Teri looked in the mirror and groaned. “Where’s the solid white cotton bras?”

“Honey, not even your mother wears those. I did get you some sports bras for dance time. Now, relax, and I’ll get you some clothes that fit.”

“Relax? I look like a magazine pin-up. You’ve gone and made me into some cheap come-on prostitute.”

Jenn kissed her and grinned, showing her the price tags from the two that she was wearing. “Nothing cheap here, baby doll.”

Teri’s eyes bulged when she saw the prices. She giggled. “Excuse me. Now I look like a high-class prostitute.”

Jenn laughed and disappeared. Teri picked up each item and shook her head. Everything Jenn had picked out was lace and very sheer. She shook her head.

It didn’t take long for Jenn to come back with leggings and long-sleeve tees in various colors. “Pick something out to wear and then we can find you more cute accessories, together.”

Teri slid on new leggings and a plain top. She looked in the mirror and was pleased with how she looked and felt. The stuffed sausage feeling was gone and she smiled. “Okay, boss. Lead the way.”

After circling the aisles twice, they both had to carry everything up to the register. Jenn handed the young girl behind the counter their credit card. Teri turned away, still shy about shopping where everyone knew her. As they were ringing up the purchases, Teri glanced and saw that the total would be over a thousand dollars.

Mrs. Abbott, the woman who measured her, approached with a smile. “I just spoke with Barbara, and she was thrilled to hear you came into the shop. She was surprised by your newer sizes and said they’ll update your info for future designs. She also told me I should simply tear up the bill because the Wildcats shop for free.”

As two young women were packing everything up, they were writing down Jenn’s address. Mrs. Abbott promised that the packages would be delivered when the store closed that night. Jenn smiled and then handed Teri two glossy photographs from an earlier modeling gig they’d done for Jersey Girl.

Teri picked up a marker and smiled at the two young women who’d helped them. They grinned and introduced themselves. Then, Teri happily wrote their name and a big smiley face next to her signature. And of course, posed for selfies.

As they walked out arm in arm, Teri whispered, “Nothing stealth so far. At least I don’t have to go down to Barbara’s shop to get measured all over again. But I want to talk to my designers. I want a new look for this upcoming year. Maybe you can come with me and help me find something different.”

Jenn squeezed close. “Sure. You know I’m there to hold your hand. But now we need to talk to Isabella. Go see your stylist and see what she suggests.”

Teri shook her head. “Yeah, this is really a change. I’m feeling all girly, and it didn’t help looking at myself standing there in fancy lingerie — I watched your eyes. It was obvious that your mouth waters for Emma.”

Jenn stood on her tiptoes and kissed her, then nipped her ear. “Yeah, well, my mouth waters for you. My girlfriend is turning into be a hottie. I’m not going to tell you how excited I got back there. It was a good thing we had Mrs. Abbott chaperoning us.”

Then they strolled through Anthropologie, Athleta, J. Crew, and Nordstrom Rack, looking at various clothes and accessories. Teri insisted that they also pick out outfits for Jenn, too. When they were done, Teri had to get a taxi just to carry everything back to their place.

As they were riding along, Teri frowned. “Do you have enough closet space to hold all of this? We might need to rent a storage locker.”

Jenn squeezed her arm, excited for her new outfits, too. “Nah. We got it. My study room has two big closets, and we can donate the stuff that doesn’t fit anymore. Some of your old tees would look real trampy in your new underwear, like you’re showing up for wet tee shirt night at the strip clubs.”

Teri wiped her eyes, laughing. “No, no, no. I’m not ready to wear tight tops with bare midriffs to attract the guys. Maybe I need to write new music for the band with that low-down, dirty sound. Something we can film at one of those Delaware Avenue strip joints as a background location. I’m sure that Mike and his crew would have fun.”

Jenn was shaking her head. “Right. I can see it now. One video and you’d destroy all your all-American preteen G rating stuff right out of the water, just so you can show off your sexy bod!”

Teri laughed. “Right. Let’s videotape me shaking my big butt. The new me! Not!”
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After unpacking all their stuff and modeling it for Jenn, she called Isabella’s and made an appointment for a consultation on Friday at one. Jenn said her classes were over at eleven, and they could head out to Allentown together. The band had been practicing a couple of days each week. Teri had been feeding them a few new songs and arrangements to keep them fresh.
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In the late afternoon, Teri stood before the band, introducing a new number. She was pointing and talking. Even though she was excited, she still knew she wasn't in charge, remembering that she was just a little shit. “Okay, it starts with Zoe lighting it up, and Tiff and Gina just take everything to the walls. I’m hearing Van Halen playing Panama. Four-four time, key of A.”

Tiffany laughed, “Balls to the wall?”

Teri blushed, “I didn’t say that.”

Tiff smiled. “But Van Halen always did.”

After they worked on something new for their intro, Lisa stepped up to the mic and roared.

Hey, guy, come on over.
Let me see what ya got to offer

Show me the goods
To knock me out

Start with a kiss
And light my fire

Make me quake
With your need

Can’t wait to get started
I’m hot and bothered.

Let’s dance!
Set me on fire
Let’s dance!
Show me your desire

Let’s dance!
Set me on fire
Let’s dance!
Show me your desire

Teri listened and banged on the keys. She was nodding her head and smiling. “Yeah, that’s what I heard.”

Gina laughed. “Why did I know that this was going to be about sex and passion. What’s happened to the two of you?”

Teri was clapping. “Yeah. I’m feeling a little frisky these days, but Jean reminded me that we need to keep it PG for the kids.”

Lisa was nodding. “I like it. And there’s room for lots of lyrics we can add. But let’s run it through a couple of times and break for a guitar solo from Zoe.”

Teri was always relieved when her sister took over.

Zoe was sitting on a high stool. “Yeah, a guitar solo. I can feel Boomer dancing along.”

Teri looked worried as she turned towards Jenn. “Is she going to be alright? I mean, the noise and everything?”

Zoe smiled. “The doc said this was okay, but she might want to come out sooner and join the party.”

Teri couldn’t get the panic off her face. “What do we do if that happens?”

Zoe was laughing. “We throw down a blanket on the back seat and Gina drives us to the hospital. You wash your hands and ride in the back with me. You can help deliver her if it happens on the way.”

“Huh? Me? You want me in the back?”

“Sure, that way you’ll be ready when Jenn delivers your baby!”

Teri stood there in panic mode. Her brain had shut down.

Zoe came over and gave her a hug. “Kidding, just kidding. But if you want a thrill, Google a video of a birth to get you ready.”

Lisa saw the panicked look on her sister’s face. “Now, if that put you in panic mode, think about this. Since you have a working uterus, the doctor could take one of Jenn’s eggs, fertilize it with Jack’s sperm sample, and then insert it into you. You’re capable of carrying that fetus until delivery and giving birth to your child.”

Teri looked at Lisa and realized she wasn’t kidding but stating a fact. She knew she was intersex and had a uterus, but had never thought past that. She knew she couldn’t get pregnant, but what Lisa was saying had to be crazy, pure science fiction. “Seriously?”

Lisa was handing her an iPad. “Look it up. It’s pretty common and doctors everywhere do IVF. Inserting a fertilized egg into a uterus is common.”

Teri looked at the illustrations and read the text. She moaned. “Please don’t tell Jenn. You know what she’s going to say.”

Lisa laughed. “Oh, she knows. She said something about you carrying and delivering your second baby. She already told me that you’re going to be nursing your baby.”

Gina came over and hugged her. “All right, girlie. Love to see you stepping up into motherhood. The whole experience.”

Teri panicked. “No. Not yet. We talked about it, but just talked about it. It doesn make me cry everytime I think that I could help out and nurse.”

Teri wiped her eyes and then looked over at Zoe. She went over and hugged her. “I can’t believe you’re not in panic mode.”

Zoe smiled. “I’ve been in panic mode for months, but I’m really tired of being pregnant and looking forward to holding her in my arms.”

Teri’s head was spinning, trying to imagine all of that happening inside her body. “And you still don’t know what the sex is?”

Zoe smiled. “We’ve picked out boy and girl names. That’s as far as we’ve gone.”

Tiffany was clapping her hands over her head. “C’mon, gang. It’s time for Teri to show us another song.”

Teri looked at them and strapped on her guitar. “Okay, so I’ve got this AC-DC vibe in my head. Gina, big drums, please.” She tapped her foot and listened while Gina pounded out with her sticks. “More foot pedal please, lotsa bass drum.”

As Gina made it sound like she was Ginger Baker in Cream, Teri began to play a repeating pattern on her strings and showed it to Zoe, who immediately took it over. Then, Teri used her lower strings to demonstrate what she wanted Tiffany to do.

Once her trio was burning it up, she signaled to her sister to go with the lyrics she’d written on her tablet.

And PACK it up
Grab your remote n’ your beer
And PACK it up

Get your clothes
And your boots
Fill some garbage bags

And PACK it up
Grab your guns and your whiskey
And PACK it up

Get your flannels
Trucker’s hats
Your vests
And your waders
And PACK it up

Fill that pickup
With your garbage
Take it all before I burn it
And PACK it up

PACK it up, baby
Take that cheatin’ heart
To your girlfriend’s place
And PACK it up before I burn it up

The band played it twice and Teri signaled them to a stop. “Yeah, I know it’s rough. This one needs some work. But Tiffany told me I’d better start bringing rock to the table, so this is what you get. No rainbows and butterflies. Crush it down and pack it up.”

Tiffany was clapping. “That’s the way to follow orders, Little. I love it.” She came over, wrapped her arms around her, and kissed her solid on the lips. Tiffany held that pose until it was obvious that Teri was gasping for air. When she let her go, they both grinned. She leaned over and smacked her on the butt. “New leggings tell me that baby’s packing a booty she’s been hiding back there. Me, like.”

When she walked back over to her amp, Teri was still frozen on the spot, staring.

Lisa broke the silence. “Is this break time?”

Teri shook her head. “Okay, maybe one more. A bit of screaming Chicago blues.” She brought out her glass slide and put it on her ring finger. Bending notes and tapping her foot, Gina and Tiffany began to give it an upbeat sound. Then Teri began to sing.

Got them evil eyes, friend
Been looking at your baby
Got that bad brain, brother
Been thinking bout your honey

Can’t turn it off
Cause she sets me on fire
Getting me hot
And filled with desire

Want your baby to take her away
Gotta have her, but we won’t stay
She’s gonna roam
And break your heart

She’s bad for you
But good for me
She’s bad for you
But good for me

Lisa sounded excited. “I like it. I like it a lot. I can’t wait to hear what Zoe can do with it.”

Teri looked at her sister. “And I can’t wait to hear you roar it out.”

Lisa shook her head. “So now it’s time for a break?”

“Well, I do have one more that I was saving. This one’s for Zoe.”

Teri went over to the piano and started going a boogie-woogie bass line with her left hand. She looked over to Tiffany, who matched her note for note.

After she was satisfied that Tiff had that in hand, she started banging out chords all over the place. She signaled to her sister to come take over. Lisa grinned as she shoved Teri out of the way and continued to bang out the chords and add more to it. Teri grinned as she picked up her guitar.

Gina was ready, holding her drumsticks high as Teri started hammering out a heavy beat with her hands that Gina picked up on her tom-tom, giving it a pounding sound.

After she had the beat going, she ripped the strings of her guitar, bending them to create a wall of sound with a heavy-metal feel. After she had everything going, she smiled at Zoe, then stepped up to the mic.

PUSH, baby, PUSH.
Find that strength from within

PUSH, baby, PUSH.
Find that strength from within

Just keep going
Show them all ya got

PUSH, baby, PUSH
Show your heart
And use your head
Show them what you’re made of

PUSH, baby, PUSH.
Drag ‘em down
Take no prisoners
Cause you don’t need Em

PUSH, baby, PUSH
Show your strength
Show your wisdom
All ya gotta do is

PUSH, baby, PUSH.
PUSH, baby, PUSH.
PUSH, baby, PUSH.

After they stared at each other and all hugged Zoe, Teri shouted out, “Now it’s definitely break time!”

As they were packing up, Zoe leaned into Teri. “You got new clothes.”

Teri shook her head. “These are a lot more comfortable. Jenn took me shopping.”

“You look a lot better. I like your color choices, too. Pretty.”

Teri hugged her. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me, but suddenly I’m enjoying looking pretty. Do you think that’s wrong?”

Zoe laughed. “No, sweetie pie. You were just so stuck in your boy mode for so long. And you tried to be Tasha, but you never went all the way. You’d been living that life for way too long. I think you’ve finally found peace within yourself, and your operation sealed the deal. It’s okay. Don’t be shy about what’s happening. Everyone sees that pretty girl except you. Does Jenn like it?”

Teri whispered, “More than ever. It’s crazy, like she’s loving all of me. Dressing me up is becoming her obsession.”

“Do you mind?”

“No. It’s blowing me away. We’re at it like twenty-four seven, and honestly, before my surgery, lovemaking wasn’t for me. It was about pleasing Jenn. But now it’s all mutual, I can’t catch my breath. It’s exciting.”

Zoe kissed her softly. “Welcome to heaven, sister.”

They’d packed up and were driving out to Allentown. Teri was trying to get Jenn to go with her to see Isabella. “C’mon, you’ve got a much better eye than I do.”

Jenn looked over and blew her a kiss. “I don’t want to push you. You have to love a style every time you look in the mirror. I know you mentioned extensions. Have you thought about color or highlights? I’ll go, but I’m only going to be the third voice. You and Isabella need to decide what’s best for you together. She’s the expert.”

“Yeah, but I’d really feel better to hear what you have to say. You know I want to look normal and I don’t want to go out of the guardrails. The Euro-punk-trash look is all worn out. I liked how easy it was, but I’m really tired of being different.”

Jenn didn’t take her eyes off the wheel. “I hear you and want to help you. But this has to come from your heart.”

So, the three of them sat and examined individual hair samples trying to decide on length and color. Isabella kept going back to the blonde. “This is what I think. You know that your natural color is light brown to dirty blonde. I want you to lean toward the dirty blonde and go for some highlights.”

Teri listened. “Yeah, I hear you, but I just don’t want to look like my sister. I’m not trying to be her clone. I need an original look that sets me apart.”

Jenn cleared her throat and laid her hand on Teri’s. “First, remember that she’s your sister and the two of you do look alike. But Lisa is light blonde and has a lot of curls. Her hair is long and reaches halfway down her back. You don’t need that exact look. Just try covering your shoulders, which will give you lots of style options. And I like the dirty blonde with highlights. I think it’s going to look pretty and natural. Isabella’s right. You carry blonde well.”

Teri kept nodding and smiling. She finally looked at Isabella. “Okay, I guess I’m ready. Can we do all that this afternoon, or is it too late? There’s always another day.”

Isabella chuckled. “Of course, we can do it. A few of my most talented girls are eager to work on you. After all, around Allentown, you’re a Wildcat. You’re a star.”

Isabella stood and held out her hand towards Jenn. “C’mon, Jenn. Let’s go get you a massage, a facial, and a trim while you’re waiting on your girlfriend.” Isabella grabbed Jenn’s hand as she waved goodbye.

Teri was busy talking to the young women who were crowding around and fussing with her as they added extensions, color, and finally, Isabella appeared and gave her a cut. When it was over, Teri kept looking at herself in the mirrors as they swung her around. The more she saw, the wider her eyes got.

She was looking at someone else. It was a woman staring back at her. Her eyes appeared larger, and she looked beautiful. As Isabella cut, then used her brush and spray, Teri started to feel tears roll down her cheeks.

Isabella handed her a box of Kleenex and whispered, “Stop crying so we can have fun with makeup.”

Teri wiped her eyes. “I’m having trouble swallowing. I love it, but can’t believe I’m so pretty.”

Isabella chuckled as she kissed her cheek. “Surprise, girl. You and your sister share some great genes. And admit it, blonde is your color. I love how you’ve gone pretty instead of punk. But we should change your nail polish color, too. Let’s lose the dark color. Do you have pink at home?

Teri shook her head. “No. Never used it.”

“Well, that’s gotta change.”

Isabella approached one of the girls who was cleaning up. She took out a small bag and put several bottles inside. As she handed it to Teri, she said, “Here are some fun colors, but I know the color I want to use today.”

Teri smiled and watched the girl remove her nail polish as Isabella shook up another color. When one of the techs applied it, she whispered, “It’s silver and pink combined. You’re going to love it.”

Teri couldn’t decide where to look as Isabella gently added color to her face. She didn’t gloss her up, but when she was done, Teri was looking at the prettiest face she’d ever had. She was already to start crying again, until she heard a gasp. Recognizing the voice, she turned around to see her girlfriend staring. But what Teri noticed was how beautiful Jenn looked. Isabella had cut bangs and shortened her hair above her shoulders. She was gorgeous.

The two of them met, hugged, and kissed. Jenn was squeezing her tight and whispering telling her how wonderful she looked and how proud she was that Teri took the big step, allowing herself to be beautiful.

Teri was growling in Jenn’s ear, saying she looked even more beautiful and powerful. She whispered, “I’d love to see you in black leather.”
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Teri was excited. It was Halloween, and Tiffany was throwing a housewarming party at their new home in the sky. Naturally, she informed everyone that costumes were required.

Teri was standing in front of the bathroom mirror, trying to incorporate lighter shades of pink and peach into her makeup palette. She was having mindless fun using glitter in her rose-tinted lashes. She knew that her euphoria had been stimulated by the two of them getting high, then making love instead of eating lunch.

When she’d told Barbara what she had in mind for a costume, the fashionista had sent her links to choose an assortment of princess outfits. She’d also added makeup tips, too.

Her hair was still in soft curlers, but she was wearing her gown, well, an abbreviated gown that consisted of a pink bustier made of spandex and lace with a built-in shelf to display her chest. She’d already dusted her cleavage with a peach colored blush that was imbued with bits of sparkling glitter. The push-up bra left nothing hidden except for her nipples and areoles. She couldn’t help but stare, thinking, ‘too much!’

When Jenn glanced over, Teri blushed. “Too much, right?”

Jenn bit her bare shoulder, then touched her neck lightly, making her shiver. “Mmm. Hardly. I’ve got the most gorgeous girlfriend ever. I’m in love.”

“You mean lust?”

Jenn bit her again and playfully grabbed her around the waist. “Is there a difference?”

Teri took a deep breath. She sighed. “I think this new look frightens me. I’m having trouble getting used to looking at myself in the mirror. I still think I’m fake. It was much better being a hard rocker like Joan Jett. I could pretend I was a tough guy.”

Jenn was laughing and shaking her head. “Tough guy, huh? I like my girlfriend soft and beautiful.”

“And then Lisa drops a bomb right in front of the Cats. She starts mentioning that I’ve got an actual uterus for birthing and I could get pregnant and have your baby.”

Jenn smiled and kissed her gently on her lips. “That would be so sweet if we each carried one of our babies. They could be a couple of years apart and be twins. Or we could have them at the same time.”

“Not at the same time, please. The whole thing scares me.”

“Okay. We can wait until our first girl is potty-trained before we start you chugging on towards motherhood. And you do know you go up at least one size when you’re nursing.”

Teri shivered and closed her eyes. She tried to picture it all. Finally, taking a deep breath, she stared at the girly-girl in front of her. “When the nurse said that I could still be growing into a C cup. Sighing, she busied herself by taking her hair out of the curlers, pulling it all up to make a ponytail held with a pink glittery ribbon. She stood, fluffing out her short skirt and the petticoats that reached mid-thigh. She wore glittery pink pantyhose and pink leather ballet flats.

Staring at the full-length mirror on the back of the bathroom door, she knew she was a ten-year-old’s vision of a Barbie doll princess. While part of her hated it, most of her mind and body were vibrating with excitement. She hated to admit how much she loved her new look.

While she was mesmerized staring at her reflection, Jenn came into focus. Dressed all in shiny grays and blacks, she was the dominatrix version of a wicked witch. Four-inch patent leather stilettos, mesh stockings held in place with garters, a shiny black thong, and a black leather bustier were the basis of her costume. The only thing keeping her clothed was a long, black satin dressing gown with a high collar that wrapped over her shoulders and tied at the neck with a black brooch. The gown draped down to her calves but was open in the front, hiding nothing. She wore long black opera-length gloves, and her makeup was dark. The only spot of color was her crimson lips, the color of blood.

Teri stared. She felt herself growing heated inside and gripped the doorframe to steady herself. “You are my Queen,” she gasped. “I’ve never felt more humbled, and I love it.”

Jenn grinned and kissed her gently. “You can grovel at my knees later, slave. We don’t want to ruin your hair or your pantyhose. We can play all night.”

Knowing they were going partying, they let the Wildcats service pick them up. As they got in the roomy SUV, they were pleased to see that Grace and Gina were sitting in there, too.

“Hi, guys! Looking good!” Gina whistled as they bent over to get in.

Teri instinctively used her left hand to cover her exposed flesh. She went to sit down, and Grace patted the seat next to her.

“C’mere, beautiful.”

Teri looked up and saw that Grace was dressed as James Dean, the fifties movie star. She’d slicked back her hair and managed to shape sideburns, too. She’d used makeup to thicken her eyebrows so they looked bushy. She’d used makeup to give herself a beard shadow but eschewed any makeup on her eyes.

There was no hiding her beautiful face, and those purple eyes still got her excited. Teri knew that a more masculine Grace didn’t stop her blood pressure from rising and her body reacting as Grace wrapped her arm around Teri’s shoulder, bringing her in closer.

Grace was drunk. “We had a cocktail and shared a joint, so my resistance is loosened tonight. So, beautiful girl. You have been warned.” With that, Grace kissed her neck. “You smell delicious, my pretty.”

Gina was dressed as James Dean’s date. Her hair was curled tightly and she was wearing a cashmere sweater, pearls, red lipstick, and a poodle skirt. Teri could see her little white socks and black and white saddle shoes. Gina reached over and put her hand on Grace’s denim-covered leg. “Okay, lover. You need to stop molesting my guitar player. I don’t think she’s that ready for your grabby hands.”

Grace pulled both her arms back and folded them in front of her. She pretended to pout. “You’re no fun. Telling me what to do.” She leaned into Teri and whispered, “She can be a hard master. It’s always about following her rules.” Then she kissed Teri on the lips, nipping at her lower one. “Oh, but you are so tempting. I’d break the rules for you.”

Fortunately, Gina moved over between them and signaled Teri to sit with Jenn. After she moved, Jenn whispered in her ear. “She is so beautiful. And I love her outfit. I wish I were a boy sometimes.”

Teri took a deep breath and thought about what she’d just said. Everything was getting confusing. She was still trying to digest Grace kissing her and squeezing her tightly. She knew it was a red flag, but it made her fantasy skyrocket. “A guy, huh? We can always pretend. I know who likes to be on top and wear the pants. But I’m sure about anything more than that.” She looked at Grace again. “You know. I’ve fantasized about kissing those lips since I met her.”

Jenn laughed. “If she were on your Five List, you’d certainly get a pass from me. But I’d want to share. She makes my heart beat, too.”

Teri kissed her and whispered, “How about the four of us?”

Jenn looked surprised, then grinned. “Sure. But you’ve been with Gina a bunch. Do you want me to name them?”

Gina leaned over. She’d heard Jenn. “Three by my count, and I still think about them. Once, when I hopped on her when she was lying in bed at Amy’s house. The second time, when Bruno was holding her down, and she was getting her tattoo. And the third one was when you told her to help me out. That was down in the Carolinas when we were making a movie. See, I haven’t forgotten.” Then she kissed Jenn on the lips. “But I want you so much my heart aches.”

Teri was trying to calm herself, not thinking about the four of them actually romping in a big feather bed with a canopy and lots of soft comforters. Everything would be white. She sighed and wondered whether Grace was someone she’d met and wasn't her counselor. Would she have such an obsession about her?

As they were arriving, Teri grabbed Grace’s hand and kissed it. She leaned into her ear and whispered. “I’ve always had a thing for you and held back crossing that line because I look forward to seeing you every week. You are at the top of my fantasy list.” She kissed her softly and handed her over to Gina.

When they got off the big service elevator, it opened into a huge space that looked like it was right out of Architectural Digest. Cathedral ceilings, oversized wooden beams spanning the width of the space, rich colors, oversized windows, and expensive, comfy furniture. As Teri looked around, she realized how luxurious the random-width hardwood floors were, leading up to a large stone-faced wall with a roaring gas fireplace. The furniture was scattered everywhere, and so were her friends.

As they stood there, Tiffany was shooting shots of the couples for the vlog. Later, she made everyone line up, and Mike did some group shots.

Tiffany came up and hugged them both. She was wearing high heels and a feathered headdress. Her sparkling, barely there showgirl outfit came straight out of Las Vegas.

She took one look at the two of them and laughed. “Excuse me. It’s amazing how you both look so unbelievably sexy, yet let your inner child dress you tonight. Jenn, you’ve always kept the dominatrix hidden deep inside. But you outdid yourself tonight. I love how you’ve revealed the sexy woman with an incredible display of power and inner strength. And you, my sweet buttercup. You are the ultimate Barbie princess, blooming right before our eyes. And I’m so jealous of your adorable boobies and wish mine would grow that beautiful. Looking at you, I might have to visit a plastic surgeon.”

Teri smiled and shook her head. She kissed her. “Tiffany, I don’t know where to start. Your beautiful house or the creature standing right in front of me, I will dream about you forever.”

She first looked at Jenn to get permission before leaning over and enveloping Teri in her arms. Throwing the young woman back, she ravaged Teri on the spot. When she stood her back up, she held Tiffany’s arms until her balance returned. Looking at Jenn, Tiffany smiled. “Thank you, Queen of the Night, for a taste of your beautiful toy.”

As Tiffany was walking away, she turned back and smiled. “Well, angels, walk around and say hello. Grab a drink, a smoke, or both. Food is scattered everywhere, and you’re both lucky since I didn’t do a thing except hire the caterers! Ta-ta, beautiful demon. I want a taste of you next.

Jenn watched her walk away. “I love her strut. She has such an air of confidence. So beautiful. And what’s with this palace? I’ve never seen anything so cool.” She looped her arm in Teri’s. “Let’s get something to eat and drink and take ourselves on a tour.”

Teri was still trying to get her balance. She’d never been hit on by so many beautiful women. Teri wondered what this makeover was telling her brain. She nodded and followed Jenn.

As they walked around, they could see that the sliders to the balcony were open, and that’s where people were lighting up. They looked at each other and shrugged as if to say, ‘Why not?’

Stepping out onto the wide balcony with a high railing, they were amazed at the view of Allentown twinkling in the distance. They could hear the commuter train running by and the low buzz of the traffic.

The first couple they ran into was her sister Lisa and Smith. They were dressed as an airplane pilot and a cabin steward. The twist was that Lisa was the pilot with the white shirt and the wings. After exchanging greetings, they talked about how they were all blown away by the new house as they passed around a pre-roll.

Lisa sighed. “I don’t know what’s going to happen to the two of us in the next year. We’re gypsies. We know that Bruno and Zoe will stay in Allentown with their new baby. And Mike has already left space for a proper en-suite nursery. But when Smith and I get started, where are we going?”

Smith smiled. “We could rent or buy in Allentown. We’d still have my place to escape to. I like Bruno’s townhouse.”

Teri looked at her sister carefully. “Now? You’re starting now?”

Lisa blushed. “Uh-huh. Once we saw Jack’s medical reports and met him, there really wasn’t anything holding us back. We have to start our family before Smith totters off and disappears with a silver alert.”

Teri looked at Smith. “As of this moment, being the youngest member of the Nelson family, I need to point out that you have some obligations. You can’t just dash off and leave my pain in the butt sister barefoot and pregnant.”

Smith took another hit of the joint. “You’re right, Teri. But she has the ring, and I asked her to marry me. I’m trying to do it right.” He turned to Lisa. “What do you say? Wanna get hitched?”

Lisa laughed. “Not until you prove your worth and get me knocked up.”

Smith turned back to Teri. “You see what I mean? I’ve put my cards on the table, and I wonder if she even wants me. Oh, yeah. By the way, you do look beautiful tonight, and Jenn is something else. The pair of you is somebody's wet dream.”

As they were standing there, Mike walked by taking photos. Lisa immediately grabbed his arm. He was dressed as a cook. “Hey, love your costume. A chef, huh? Does that mean you have something in the oven?”

Mike grinned from ear to ear. “Well, if not today, maybe tomorrow. What do you think of the place?”

Teri gushed. “It’s amazing. It’s all so beautiful.”

Mike bowed. “Thank you, thank you. It’s been a labor of love. But don’t forget the kitchen, powder room, and our bedroom. The next stop is the nursery.”

Jenn patted him on the back. “You do great work, Mike. And I really enjoy your weekly posts on Tiffany’s vlog.”

Mike smiled. “Once again, the boys downstairs enjoy doing it for her. It’s a labor of love. After all, she’s in the office a lot of days when she’s not shopping or out with you guys.”

Jenn grabbed Teri’s arm. “C’mon. Let’s continue our tour.”

As they walked hand in hand, Teri leaned over and kissed her hard on the mouth. “Jeez, I get so turned on when I get high. It really could be a problem.”

Jenn grabbed her hand. “A problem solved. I know what we can do about that.” She pulled Teri into the bathroom and locked the door behind her. She turned her around and pushed her face up against the tile wall. “Hmm. I noticed you weren’t wearing underwear.”

Teri started to breathe hard as Jenn held her tightly against the tile. “I’ve got pantyhose on. Isn’t that all I need?” She felt Jenn’s hand. “Oh.”

Zoe was dressed as a very pregnant nun, and Bruno wore a black suit with a cleric's collar. They were dancing together when Teri and Jenn popped out of the bathroom. Zoe looked them over and smiled. “I’m not going to ask what you were doing ‘cause I can guess. But both your costumes are rockin’.

Just then, while they were standing there talking, a puddle started forming under Zoe. She grabbed Bruno and kissed him on the lips. “It’s time, baby. Go get the car.”

Before Bruno could dash across the room and run down the steps, everyone was gathered around Zoe and sitting her down. Tiffany handed her some towels. As Zoe tried to dry herself off, she started laughing. “Look at us. And we’re all headed off to Cedar Crest Hospital. What are they going to think?”

Gina laughed. “A pregnant nun, a priest, a Las Vegas showgirl, a chef, a pilot, a cabin steward, James Dean, and his fifties poodle skirt-wearing girlfriend walk into a hospital. Oh, yeah. Let’s not forget Barbie Princess and her Devil Dominatrix are coming along, too.”

Teri looked at the crowd and turned to Zoe, “Can we all go with you?”

Zoe smiled. “Of course. They have big birthing rooms. My girls are more than welcome to help me deliver. After all, we are the Wildcats.”