It had been a good year at University. The second year of a three year Electrical Engineering course. Friends made, but at the end of the term the students had dispersed all over the UK and beyond. Miles had a job set up for the long vac which started soon. He had a couple of weeks to unwind before starting a 9 ‘till 5 at an electrical factors near his home. The rest of his friends were in Majorca or Ibiza getting into the holiday mood with the girls and lots of beer for most of the next couple of weeks. He really didn’t miss the discos and the heavy drinking night after night and trying to have one’s way with the girls wasn’t really his thing either, but the weather was good at home for a change and at the last minute he took a train to Cornwall and registered at a small hotel in Mousehole on the beachfront for a week.

The first evening he walked up the promenade to the end, and then walked back. There was a fish and chip shop half way up and a rather uninspiring pub next door to it with a greasy carpet and worn banquettes along each wall of the bar. He had a cider from a wooden cask. It was very potent at 6 ABV. One pint was certainly enough for the evening especially as he was tired from his six hour journey on the train.

By 10pm he was in his single room and was ready for bed.

The seagulls didn’t know he was asleep and made a hell of a din at 6am on their way out to their feeding grounds, so at 6:30am he got up, got out his eReader and started one of the several books he had downloaded before leaving home.

The clock showed 7:30 when he decided that the day had started and he showered and shaved and collected his few belongings for a day on the beach meant to help him unwind.

8:30am was the start of breakfast and he was one of the first to go down to the dining room. Being on his own he had no distractions other than the blue sky and the sunshine, and those only made him finish his breakfast even more promptly.

After 9:30 he had finished his eMails and had had abandoned looking at the rather depressing News on the small TV in the room. Armed with a large bottle of water, sun cream and a snack he was ready.

Getting to the beach meant crossing a quiet road and going down steps.

There was a patch of empty sand nearby and he set up his little group of belongings and after looking around and seeing no one very close by, he settled down to read and listen to a local radio station on his phone with an earpiece.

He wasn’t so engrossed in his book or the music not to notice a very pretty girl come down the beach and lay out a large towel on the sand and spread her belongings around her. He noticed that she seemed vaguely familiar, but he put that down to chance and carried on reading. He did notice out of the corner of his eye that she had a very nice figure and the red bikini she was wearing fit her very well. It wasn’t the skimpy design that some girls wore. It was more covering than that, but it had been cut very well and enhanced her figure.

Each time he looked at her out of the corner of his eye she seemed to be looking at him somewhat quizzically.

It made Miles think. He seemed to think that her face was vaguely familiar although he couldn’t think where he knew her from or what her name was. He wasn’t the type to have one night stands with anonymous girls, so he was confused about her strange familiarity.

When he saw her looking at him for the fourth time, he decided that she also recognised him, so he put his eReader down and switched off his radio and went over to her.

“Sorry to interrupt, but your face seems awfully familiar, but I cannot for the life of me, think where I know you from.”

“You also seem to recognise something in me. Do you know me?”

“Yes, Miles, you are very familiar. We went to school together and went off to our two Universities at the same time. You did Electrical Engineering if I remember correctly, and I am at the end of my second year reading Biochemistry.”

“I am amazed, because I have no recollection of a girl like you in my year at school.”

“It is not unreasonable that you don’t remember me. I did look quite different those two years ago. You may remember me if I say that my name was Andrew then.”

“Andrew Brooks!! … but without a doubt you have changed enormously. You were rather quiet boy in those days, and now look at you. How is it that you are now a very pretty girl sunning herself on a beach in Cornwall?”

“I am unwinding after the term with its mass of exams. I am starting an Internship in a few days so I am taking advantage of the nice weather to relax a bit.”

“I am doing the same but I start a holiday job soon which is why I couldn’t join my friends on the Balearic Islands.”

“You haven’t explained the obvious, though. You were a fairly ordinary boy two years ago, with what I assume were the normal bits commonly found on boys, and you now have a very female body which fits that bikini beautifully, if I may say so.”

Andi tossed her almost black curls that draped over her shoulders, and unnecessarily rearranged the straps that went over her comely shoulders.

“It is a fairly long story. When I went back to University at the start of my second year, a research team wanted volunteers to be tested for the effects of various synthetic hormones. It was expected that the effects would be reversible, but it was too successful on me, and here I am. I was delighted with the result, and the team gave me booster shots that made the changes permanent.

“Aren’t there people queueing up to get a shot and change into pretty girls?”

“There would be if it worked on everyone, but I have what is probably a unique tissue type and the shots have not worked on anyone else so far.”

“Hasn’t it been very complicated to change gender with all the bureaucracy and so on.”

“The lawyers for the University have done most of the hard work. It was in their interest for me to be content and not to sue them.”

“Yes, I can understand that.”

“Will you put some suncream on my back, Miles. I am getting too much sun.”

“Certainly. I shall enjoy that. I don’t often have the chance to put cream on pretty girls.”

Miles knelt on the sand and rubbed Factor 50 onto Andi’s back. He enjoyed the intimacy of this simple act.

Andi put her arms round and undid the hooks that held the top of her bikini together, and lay on the sand to stop the bra top moving.

“Please avoid putting cream on my bikini top. It is difficult to wash out.”

Miles smoothed the cream into her clear skin, then she drew the strap back and deftly rejoined the two halves, before sitting up, and smiling.

“Thank you for that.” she said smiling. “Do you want me to do the same for you?”

“Yes please.”

Miles lay on his towel and Andi knelt beside him and rubbed the cream in. It was a comforting action, and Miles was charmed by it.

“Have you changed your interest in the opposite sex? Miles asked.

“Not really. I have always been interested boys. I am now a straight girl, whereas I was a gay male before.”

“Do you have a boyfriend at the moment?”

“No. I have been working too hard at University for that and it has only been three months since the paperwork was sorted out and my anatomy had finished changing.”

“Hasn’t it been very expensive to buy a whole new wardrobe?”

“The University gave me £1000 for clothes and other necessaries, and a week with a coach to help me with female mannerisms, make up and so on.”

“So does your new body work exactly as if you had been born a girl?”

“As far as I know. I have periods the same as every other girl, and fancy boys, if that is what you mean?”

“Yes, I did mean that. I am sure the possibility of motherhood must be strange one with your male birth.”

“You would think so, but it is just something in the background at the moment. I have a career to find and a degree to finish before any thoughts of a family.”

“Those things do not stop you having a boyfriend.”

“No, I have thought of that, but I feel very vulnerable. I am not very strong and haven’t has the chance to take any self-defence classes yet. I don’t want things to get out of hand and me being unable to stop something, and then get pregnant. I don’t feel able to tell a boy on our first date that I was once a boy.”

“I have a suggestion. You are very pretty, and I would be asking you out in the normal course of events. I know your background and am not fazed by it. We could go very slowly at a speed that made you feel comfortable. When we get to the end of our holiday we could part on good terms.”

“I need to be able to experience a relationship as a girl if I am to have a long-term boyfriend or even a husband. A slow moving relationship with someone I trusted is a possibility. Can I think about it?”

“Yes, of course. It is not a challenge. I will go as far, or as fast as you choose. It sounds like a platitude to say that I will enjoy being with you and helping to to discover the pleasures your body can offer.”

Andi leant over Miles and her lips brushed his. Her bikini top just dragged over his chest.

Both smiled.

“Thank you for that. I think I can trust you not to go too fast. You had a reputation for being a caring person at school and I certainly need to build my confidence.”

“Come and lie beside me. My towel is quit big enough. We can talk more easily there.”

Miles did not need a second invitation. Andi shifted over to make room and he lay down beside her with their hips and shoulders touching. Her right hand and his left hand on top of each other and he soon held her hand gently and used his thumb to stroke the ball of her thumb.

“That is nice.” she said.

“Have you explored your body to see what you like to have done for you?”

“I have explored between my legs in the shower. It isn’t rocket science. I know which bits are easily stimulated.”

“Is that something that you would like me to do when we are on our own?”

“Yes. I would be comfortable with that, and I am happy to stimulate you as well. I have read about giving a blowjob and it is perhaps the time to put the theory into practice.”

“I shall look forward to that. What about a 69?”

“Yes, by all means. I have wondered what that feels like.”

“I am sure that is all we should do the first time.”

“I agree. Where shall we go?”

“We are both in the same hotel and the rooms are not serviced on the first day. What about going to one of our rooms and seeing what happens.”

They collected their belongings and walked slowly up the beach and across the road to the hotels, got both keys and only used Andi’s key to her room on the second floor.

When the door was closed, Miles went over and kissed Andi.

“May I take off your top?” he said sincerely.

“Do you want to do it, or shall I?”

“It is nicer for me to do it, I think. You just relax.”

Miles reached round Andi’s chest and released the hooks that held the bikini top in place. The garment fell to the ground and Miles stepped back to look at her chest.

On seeing the garment fall, Andi bent over at the waist and picked it up. Her breasts fell forwards and could be seen to their full effect. They fell into Miles’ open hands.”

“Beautiful.” he said and leant over to kiss each nipple in turn.

Andi didn’t really know what to do when her breasts were being fondled. She just looked a bit uncomfortable.

“Those are he nicest breasts I have seen. They are beautifully shaped with a really attractive nipple. Your areolae are dark and prominent. I would love to run my fingers and tongue round them.”

“I don’t know what to do with my arms. I am getting really turned on by your tongue, but standing here topless in the middle of a hotel bedroom is really odd.”

“I think that before that we need to shower. The sun cream will make your sheets very greasy and the taste of it is not good.”

“The shower is not big enough for us both. Shall I go first?”

“Yes certainly.”

“Shall I strip off here or in the bathroom?”

“Oh, here please. I shall enjoy the view.”

Andi swatted Miles and laughed, but dropped the bikini bottom after turning round.

“Why turn round? You are beautiful.”

Andi turned round again. “Better?”

“Yes, better. You really won in the body stakes. You have the 36-24-36 figure like some models I would guess. Your lustrous black curls show off your porcelain skin to perfection. Your curls cascading over your shoulders are just gorgeous.”

“Andi flicked her hair and tied it up with a scrunchie and went into the shower, but left the outer door open.”

Miles heard the shower run and looked in, but the shower had frosted glass and he could only see a shadow.

Shortly afterwards Andi emerged with a towel round her middle.

“Now it is your turn” she said mischievously.

Miles stood by the dripping girl.

“Now it is your turn to take off some clothes. Take off my trunks if you wish to. It is your decision.”

Andi crouched and gripped the sides of the trunks and pulled gently.

Miles’ penis sprang to attention as soon as it was released and the garment fell to the floor. The end brushed her lips by mistake.

“Sorry.” he said.

“Why are you sorry? I will get even more aquatinted soon.”

“That is impressive.” she said.

“I must go and shower but will be back as soon as I can.”

The shower was soon over and Miles emerged already dry.

He crossed to Andi and kissed her firmly with their bodies pressed closely together.

Miles had a thought and moved apart from Andi and sat on the bed.

“Why have you gone over there?” She said.

“I have had a thought that I think we need to explore before going any further.”

“OK, what is it.”

“I think this is something serious. I like what I see in you. You are beautiful and intelligent. I would be happy to have you as a girlfriend, maybe more, but we are here just giving you some experience of your new body. This isn’t a trivial matter. It may be fun, but there is a risk that we may go further and break your hymen. That may be important to you. It is to some girls. I don’t want to start something that leaves us both sad and unfulfilled.”

“My body has shown me that I have needs. At the moment I need an intimate relationship with all that that entails. I need to explore it all and if that means we go further and me breaking my hymen is the consequence, then so be it. My body wants, no needs, to be a woman with everything that involves. Is that clear enough.”

“It is eminently clear. I just want to make it obvious that I could very easily fall in love with you. If you are sure that you just want a one night stand then I would prefer to move on, but if a relationship might work, then I would be delighted to be part of that relationship.”

“I am an ingénue when it come to relationships. I know I want a partner to help me explore my body and I will spend this holiday with you with an open mind. I would be happy to be in a loving relationship with you, but there are lots of things we don’t know about each other. Maybe things will not work out, but I am not on the pill and the staff at the University did not recommend it until the last effects of the hormones I received have worked their way out of my system. If we go further it will need to be with a barrier contraception method.”

“Understood.”

Andi moved over and sat over Miles’ legs. Her breasts were at his eye height and his hand was resting on her mons.

“Please let me experience being a woman without any more talk.”

Miles smiled.

“Your wish is my command. Please lie on the bed face down and I will give you a massage. I have been told that I am quite good at it.”

Andi did as she was told and lay on the bed with her legs comfortably apart. He hd no oil, but it didn’t seem to matter.

Miles began at her feet and worked up to her hips, then knelt over her and massaged her back and shoulders. His very erect penis was resting between her buttocks.

After completing a massage of her neck muscles he asked her to turn over and continued the massage of her shoulders and neck.

Her breasts he left until near the end. He used a circular motion with just his finger tips and Andi started to squirm. He then tweaked one nipple while taking the other into his mouth and swirling round it with his tongue. This was repeated with the other nipple until both were engorged.

The final part of the massage concentrated between her legs until she tensed then relaxed with a gasp.

“That was amazing.” she said in a particularly breathy way. “Where did you learn to do that?”

“I have had girlfriends before and they are usually clear about what they enjoy.”

“Are you OK?” Andi asked. “Not too uncomfortable?”

“I am rather uncomfortable but It has been a pleasure to explore with you. You are beautiful and whatever happens, I shall remember this occasion.”

“Thank you, Miles. I have had a wonderful experience.”

Andi and Miles snuggled down together and Andi gave him the release he needed. They had an hour’s sleep before they needed a second shower.

Andi was lying propped up with her elbow on the pillow when they awoke.

“I think we should get up, get dressed and go and buy several packs of condoms before the shops shut.”

Miles raised his eyebrows but went and put on his swimming things again until he could return to his room for more clothes.

“I will meet you back here again in fifteen minutes.”

Andi met Miles at the door of her room. She was comfortable in a dark green sun dress that was enhanced by her raven curls that cascaded over her shoulders. Her face had had Aftersun rubbed in and it glowed with what might have been a newfound confidence. She skipped down the stairs in Grecian sandals holding Miles’ hand and out into the early evening sunshine.

The ice cream and candy floss sellers were beginning to pack up, and the smell of fish and chips was beginning to become pervasive to feed the evening crowd who would soon get back in their cars to return to Penzance or hotels and camp sites further afield..

Andi’s sunny mood could not help to rub off on Miles.

“You are clearly in a good mood.”

Andi stopped humming a popular song, and gave Miles a hug and a kiss on his cheek.

“You know that. Now let’s find an open Chemist.”

A Chemist was open on the second row of shops back from the Front. He seemed to make money from selling products for people who had been out in the sun too long, but had a display of condoms off to one side.

“You choose.” Andi said with a smile.

“Flavoured or not?”

“Not flavoured. You will not be wearing one when I can taste it.”

Miles kept his mouth shut at that point.

“When do you want to eat? Before or after?”

“I think I would prefer to eat now and then enjoy the evening before an early night sharing a room.”

“Fish and Chips or something more sophisticated?”

“I think we can run to a Pizza and a glass of Italian plonk.”

“”What do you like?”

“I generally go for a ‘Five Cheese Pizza’.”

“Sounds good to me. A 12” Five Cheese and two plates, and a glass of Prosecco each to celebrate our meeting.”

It was still early, but the Admiral Benbow had been open since Noon, and would be open until late. They were happy to guide Miles and Andi to a table near the window, but Andi asked for a table nearer the back that had a bench seat.

“Why didn’t you want the table in the window?”

“I wanted to sit where we can be touching.”

The pub restaurant was used to a quick turnaround and the Pizza and two small salads were soon delivered with the Pizza on a wooden platter with the cheeses still bubbling from the oven.

The Prosecco arrived in chilled 250ml bottles. Miles unscrewed both and poured the wine into plastic champagne flutes. Both lifted their glasses. “To us” Miles said, and they both had a sip of the Prosecco.

Andi squeezed his hand. “Yes, to us.”

Interspersed with their eating, they discussed the night and beyond.

“I don’t know anything about your family, Andi.”

“That is easy. I am an only child. I have had nothing to do with my father that I can remember. My mother is a technician in a dental practice, making dental prostheses.”

“How will she see our meeting?”

“She has been very worried how I will cope with my new body and suggested this trip away. I think she will be delighted to meet you. How about your family, Miles?”

“I have both parents and an older brother, called Spencer. We get on well. I know that the family will be happy to embrace you, but they will be concerned that we are going too far, too fast.”

“I am just so happy to have such a beautiful girl on my arm. When we were walking alone here you just seemed to float beside me before snuggling up to my shoulder. I find everything about you entrancing, but I am coming to think that we need to know each other better before you give your maidenhead to me. I am desperate not to hurt you and know it would be very damaging to us both if we take things further, then hurt each other emotionally.”

“I want to be a fulfilled woman for you, no … for us both. I don’t know how two people can click so totally at almost a first meeting, but I know from the TV that it can happen. I am singing to myself.” I can hear the song in my head.“One Enchanted evening’ from South Pacific”

These are the words of the first verse

‘Some enchanted evening
You may see a stranger,
You may see a stranger
Across a crowded room.
And somehow you know,
You know even then,
That somewhere you’ll see her again and again.’

“Just substitute him for her and it works.”

“I know exactly what you mean. I am thinking to myself whether I want to have a family with you, and the answer is yes, absolutely. I know that is strange, almost bizarre. Such things need mature reflection. Anyone party to this discussion would think that we were quite besotted with each other and were in an unfit state to make a rational decisions, and they are probably right.”

“Marry in haste and repent at leisure.” isn’t that the phrase that is often quoted.”

“Yes it is and I am sure there is truth in it, and as to me also being besotted with you, Andi…
Yes, without question., … and I would put a ring on your finger this instant if it were possible.”

“Now the pragmatic bit. My suggestion is that we spend our few days here, then head for our two homes to introduce each other to the other’s parents. We will meet as often as we can during our long vacations when we are working. I think we are both going to be living at home for the next six or eight weeks so it shouldn’t be difficult.”

“Do we phone our parents and let them know?”

“We will have to do that before turning up on their doorsteps, but perhaps not yet.”

They reached the end of the Promenade and looked across the sea to where the sun was just sinking behind a hillside. The golden glow made a streak of gold that seemed to stretch across the bay and shine directly on them. They kissed sensitively, then more firmly, and more urgently.

After several minutes they ‘came up for air’ as the saying goes.

“Wow!” Miles said. “For someone who has had little practice, you can certainly kiss!”

“I am not entirely unfamiliar with kissing. I was a boy for 20 years after all. I had the occasional night out with a girl and once with a boy.”

“I hadn’t though of you as having girlfriends or boyfriends previously.”

“Does it make a difference?” Andi said a little anxiously.

“Not an jot. Whilst I am not into boys, you are an extraordinarily pretty girl and I am sure your previous experience can only be a good thing.”

“Thinking logically; I find it difficult to understand how you can be so beautiful and graceful after having just a week of tuition.”

“My mother has helped at weekends when I visited from Uni.”

“How did you fit in all the work for Uni and prepared for the end of year exams with all this going on?”

“I did all I could, but it wasn’t really enough. The University had accepted the liability for my transition and as I said, the lawyers arranged for my documents to be changed. In the end I was given an aegrotat pass for the year, but will have to work harder in my final year to catch up.”

“I am glad they recognised that you needed an aegrotat. I am sure your mind was in turmoil for much of the time. I know you said that it would be almost impossible to replicate the effect of the injection because of your tissue typing, but do you know what happened?”

“I was a normal XY chromosome pattern, but the synthetic hormone seems to have deleted the Y chromosome in all the cells I have that matter, and then another hormone caused the one X chromosome to replicate in every cell when it divided.”

“Doesn’t that mean that you could have a higher risk of genetic problems with two identical X chromosomes?”

“It does, but I don’t seem to have any problem genes on my X chromosomes, so it has not been a challenge. All the girl’s eggs develop when she is in her mother’s womb. I have had a couple of eggs removed by laparotomy and they have been karyotyped. I seem to have enough eggs to supply my menstrual cycle for about 20 years as any woman of twenty has. No one can give an explanation.”

“What about your brain and nervous system? Those cells don’t replicate easily?”

“As far as I know, they retain the XY pattern, but as there is very little cell division, that may not matter. It seems that all the hormones swilling about makes me think as a girl even if my brain cells show a male genetic pattern.”

Andi and Miles had drifted back to their hotel. They looked at each other and went in. Both took their keys but they ended up in Andi’s room after collecting Miles’ night things.

What followed did not provide a trail of discarded clothing on the way to the bed. Their progress was a measured one, but both were eventually satisfied by the use of fingers and tongues.

Any passing seagull could have seen them fast asleep in each other’s arms the following dawn.

“What shall we do today?”

“Well, there is the beach again, or a bus ride up the coast to Penzance. The port is interesting up to a point, and we could have a light lunch there, before coming back. There is lots to see at the various art galleries, and it would be nice to take in a show at the Minack Theatre that overlooks the sea. I think we can get tickets for tonight or tomorrow, but getting there and back by public transport is difficult. I think I would have to hire a car if we wanted to do that.”

“Do we know what is playing?”

“It is one of the Shakespeare Histories. I cannot remember which one, but we can look it up if you are interested.”

“I suggest that we go down and have a good breakfast now, and then we may only need a snack at lunch time. Lets discuss what to do over breakfast.”

Both enjoyed the Full English that the hotel provided. The bacon and black pudding were crispy as they should be, and the fried bread was delicious. The hash brown helped to mop up the egg yolk that oozed out onto it.

Andi was wearing a new bra that emphasised her very feminine form. She had to steer the filled fork a bit, to avoid spillages and looked down to check. Miles looked at her and smiled. She noticed and blushed prettily.

On their way out of the dining room they looked at the bus time table in the Hotel Reception. They would have half an hour to catch the bus into town, so they hurried with their final preparations and were at the bus stop with five minutes to spare.

The little single decker bus took its time stopping at every village. It gradually filled up with children going to school in Penzance and there was standing room only when it disgorged its occupants in the town near the station.

“I would like to visit the Penlee Gallery with its collection of the Newlyn School of Art and Lamorna artists colony paintings. It should be open now. It is passed 10 o’clock.”

“Yes that would be good starting point. It isn’t far to walk.”

It was going to get hot during the day and both visitors had sun glasses on. Andi’s sundress was the same dark green material as she had worn already.

“That dark green really suits you.”

“Yes, I like it and in this weather it is good to have matching underwear with something so sheer as this dress. My wardrobe does not stretch to having multiple summery dresses yet.”

“Have you got some shorts or a summer skirt?”

“Yes, to both … but I like wearing dresses and I think you appreciate them as well.”

“I do. I think you are stunning with a dark green outfit. It compliments your hair. It gives me a frisson of excitement to think that we are going out together.”

Andi snuggled up to Miles.

“You do say the most lovely things. I am flattered, but it also makes me feel contented. Isn’t that confusing?”

“Not really. Can one not be a little excited as well as being contented?”

“I suppose so.”

The next hour was spent looking at the pictures, and holding hands. They occasionally pointed out some feature on a painting they both enjoyed.

Eventually the gallery was explored fully and they had walked round the sub-tropical gardens that surrounded the gallery.

“Shall we get a coffee and a snack at the gallery café?”

“No, lets walk back towards the town. I saw several interesting cafés on the way up. It is a good thing I am wearing trainers. I would have been crippled by the summer weather and walking if I had been wearing shoes with a heel.”

“Do you have anything with a heel? I quite understand the need for comfort, and I know you have some sandals here, but do you own any heels?”

“There is some question about the tendons in my legs as to whether I can wear heels comfortably for long periods. Tendons do not change much and I have been reluctant to spend a lot on shoes that I might not be able to wear.”

“ I don’t know what you think, but I understand that heels are important to some women particularly in ballroom dancing.”

“Can you dance?”

“I took dancing classes for a short while, but I didn’t have a girlfriend at the time, and I got bored with changing partners. I learned how to Waltz, Quickstep and Foxtrot, but only the absolute basics.”

“I would love to learn to dance. Can we learn together?”

“Of course. I would love to dance with you. In fact there aren’t many activities that I would chose to do without you. The only thing is how we can do things together, with being at separate Universities?”

“We only have the final year to go, and that is really only nine months.”

“I have just had a thought. Our Universities are about an hour apart by road. Would it be possible for one of us to commute and we could live together?”

“That is certainly an idea, and it would put our compatibility to the test. It would certainly add to the travel costs, but a small flat on a year’s lease outside the main student area might be cheaper than student accommodation.”

“Let’s see what our parents can suggest when we meet them.”

The café they chose had a garden area with sun shades. They both had a diet drink and a sandwich with a small garnish of salad.

“Shall we stay in Penzance for the evening and eat here before catching one of the later buses back to the hotel?”

“Yes, there is plenty of places to choose from. Indian, Chinese, Thai, even French, apart from the usual Fish and Chips or Pizza again. What do you fancy, Andi.”

“You know what I fancy! … and you do not appear to be on the menu.”

Miles looked down to cover his embarassment. “I don’t want to hurt you, but I have to say that my resolve is weakening”

“Good. A quick curry and back to the hotel for an early night. I would like some scented massage oil. Can we see if there is somewhere that sells it here.”

“That sounds like a very good idea. It is much more sensual to have scented oil to use. I might also suggest a joss stick burner, but I am sure that would set off the smoke detector in the room and bring a hefty fine.”

“We will have to leave the joss sticks until we have our own place.”

“We keep talking about ‘our own place’. We really are talking about setting up home together, aren’t we! No if’s or but’s, partners in every sense of the word. A home, jobs, babies … the whole nine yards.”

“Are you daunted by that, Andi?”

“Only if you are uncertain. It seems an entirely natural thing to me. A fulfilment of me as I am now.”

“What a responsibility. Your wellbeing in my hands.”

“Do you feel that it is just a responsibility? Isn’t it just a normal part of living and loving?”

“My reluctance is only whether I can fulfil the ambitious rôle you have for me. I have no doubts about my feelings for you even though it is only hours since we met after that two year gap, but in effect I am talking about being a husband and father?”

“Think how I feel about being a wife and mother, but it seems that I was emotionally destined for that even before my change of circumstances.”

“OK. I think I am resolved. I cannot see a future without you being by my side, so let’s forget the alternatives and go for it. “I plight thee my troth, Andi”

Andi giggled. “I don’t think anyone has said that for centuries. I think it is from the bible. Come here and give me a kiss. That is enough ‘plighting’ to be going on with.”

They were still sitting in the café and other customers were looking on, so the kiss was merely a brushing of the lips, but its meaning was profound to them both.”

As they walked down towards the harbour front, Andi was humming a tune.

“I don’t recognise that?” Miles said.
“Oh it is something from a pop song from long ago. Something about ‘me loving you’.”

On the way, they bought some Patchouli massage oil and further down they found a sheet to protect the bed at a hardware store.

Andi seemed to cling to Miles as they walked. If they had been able to coalesce they would have done.

After visiting a second small art gallery they found a quiet seafood restaurant near the harbour that sold a seafood platter made up of whatever had been caught that day. It was expensive but one platter was designed for two. There was a delay of 30 minutes on the order, but they enjoyed a local beer. So much had already been said, they just basked in the moment. Each time one caught the other’s eye they smiled and looked away a little embarrassed.

Some time was spent looking at phones, and it was during that time that a ping showed that a text had arrived from Andi’s mother. She was asking how the holiday was going.

“I am going to ring her after the meal, before we catch the bus back.”

“The last bus is 10:30pm.”

“I am intending to be back at the hotel long before that.” Andi said with a knowing smile.

The large oval platter arrived with a mountain of rice and lots of clams, shrimps, bits of squid and deep fried octopus as well as whitebait deep fried and crispy. There was something that looked like strips of white meat that later proved to be crab and lobster pieces. It was more than they could eat together even washed down with a second beer.

After paying for their meal they walked back to the promenade and sat on a convenient bench where they could see the sun begin to dip lower towards the horizon.

Andi rang her mother.

“Hi Mum,”

“How’s everything at home?”

“You have just been talking to Gran. Is she well?”

“Glad to hear it.”

“The weather is lovely here. I have met up with an old school friend by chance. We are doing everything together, including visiting the art galleries here. We didn’t really know each other well at school. Now things have changed for me it is a brilliant thing and we have rather fallen for each other.”

“You knew him, Miles, yes. You know or knew his parents. He is doing Electrical Engineering at Uni and is also at the end of his second year.”

“He is working from Monday week for the rest of the vacation, but I will bring him round to meet you when we get home.”

“We are planning to go to the theatre tomorrow night at the open air performance in Minack, but we will need to hire a car to get back.”

“We have got to catch the bus now back to Mousehole, so have to go.”

“Yes, I will be careful and I will ring every couple of days.”

“Love you lots. Bye”

Andi looked over at Miles.

“I think the cat is out of the bag. Apparently my mum sees your parents quite often at some sort of club all three attend.”

“It is a social club held at the golf club every fortnight.”

“Do you think you ought to ring home before they hear anything from my mum?”

“Yes, I think I should.”

“Miles dialled home and the conversation was very similar to the one Andi had, but he put his phone on speaker mode.”

After the usual pleasantries and a summary of the two days of holiday and the inevitable discussion about the weather, Miles explained how he had met Andi and how they had been at school together, but had not known each other well. Now they were doing everything together and really enjoying sharing the holiday.

Katie, Miles’ mother insisted that they send some pictures of them together and what they were visiting. Miles looked over to Andi who nodded her agreement.

“Yes, we will send a couple of pictures to both you, and to Andi’s mum, Karen.”

“In fact I will put this call on picture phone and he turned the camera on.”

“This gobbles up the battery, but you can see us here on the promenade in Penzance.”

The rear view camera showed Andi and Miles sitting on the sea wall with their arms round each other. Almost without a second thought they turned simultaneously and had a brief kiss in front of his parents.

“You look beautiful together and the setting is lovely.”

“Is that Karen Brooks’ daughter, that we know from the Social Club?”

“Yes, the very same!”

“We know her mother well.”

“We already know that.” Miles said with a smile.

“When we get back we will arrange for you to meet Andi.”

“Is this one of those formal meetings where a potential bride is introduced to the prospective parents-in-law?”

“You are too perceptive, mum. It might be.”

“We have to go and get the bus back to Mousehole, but I will ring again soon.”

When Karen Brooks had finished her call with her daughter, she tried to ring Katie and Vince, Miles’ parents but found the line engaged, so she texted Katie.

“Have you been in touch with Miles? Do we need to talk?”

“We will see each other at the Social Club in two days. I don’t think we need to be worried about a holiday romance just yet. Wait until the next phone call and see the photos when they arrive to see if there is anything to discuss. To keep you informed, they spoke to us with the camera switched on. I captured a still image of them mid-kiss. An image captured from a movie is not brilliant quality, but I will forward it to you.”

“Thankyou for sending it to me. It arrived as we were texting. I do think they look very happy. As you know, Andi has been through a lot of change this year, but I don’t think I have ever seen her looking so happy as she does in that image. I think they will look very good together in any better quality photos they send.”

“See you the day after tomorrow.”

In fact Miles and Andi didn’t catch the next bus. They found a car hire depot open and hired a small car for tomorrow and thought they would drive down to Land’s End then back to Minack for the 8pm performance of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. They managed to book two of the less prestigious seats near the back of the theatre with its spectacular backdrop of the cliffs and the sea. They were able to drive the car back to the hotel ready for the morning.

As soon as they were through Andi’s room door they became entwined in a long and loving kiss.

“You said to your mum that our relationship might be for keeps. Did you mean that?”

“Yes of course I meant it. I don’t tell porky pies to my mother.”

“It may only be a short time we have been together but I am sure that I love you. I want you to use one of those condoms we bought yesterday, and I very willingly give you my maidenhead.”

Miles looked at Andi.

“You are serious about that aren't you? I am quite certain that I love you as well, and I was also certain that you are a permanent part of my life when I spoke to my parents.”

Miles reached over and kissed Andi very sincerely. He stretched behind her and unzipped her dress before unclipping her bra, and allowing it to fall to the floor.

“Please make love to me. I don’t want to wait. I want to feel you inside me. I am only sad that we have to use a condom. I will get on the pill as soon as I can.”

Andi undressed Miles in haste, and the rest of her garments were cast aside on the floor.

The bottle of massage oil fell onto the floor and rolled under a chair.

“Do you want a massage first?”

“Sod, the massage. I need you inside me now.”

Miles needed no further prompting.

Andi had hesitated only briefly as her hymen was parted and they had had the presence of mind to put a towel under Andi first.

In the afterglow, Miles ran his fingers through Andi’s pubic curls and toyed with her nipples.

The kisses were gentle and in a little while, he moved down to kiss her nipples as the intensity of their love making gradually returned.

The used condom was folded over carefully, but then dropped on the floor and a new one unwrapped.

Their love making a second time was less urgent, more sensual, and deeply satisfying. Miles was dropping off to sleep as soon as they had finished and Andi had to move away from him to remove the condom that risked leaking if he went to sleep with it still inside her.
“Sleep well my love.” she said to herself.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

They woke to sunshine and the sounds of the seagulls and crockery being set out for breakfast. Both were hungry and wanted to get to the car for their one day rental.

Miles tiptoed to his room and showered there as his clean clothes were still there.

After breakfast they drove off to explore the coast and its beaches. Andi was driving and headed of to Pedn Vounder Beach which is reputed to be one of the most beautiful in Cornwall.

“Are you abandoning the trip to Lands End?”

“Yes, do you mind?”

“No. Not really it is pretty much a tourist trap.”

Miles saw a sign where they could park that said that the beach was clothing optional.

“Did you mean to come to a naturist beach?”

“Yes, of course. I have been gifted a body to be proud of. Why cover it up?”

“That red bikini does not cover you up much.”

“I had to buy that when my mother was paying. She thought the nicer ones were indecent.”

“Are you going to send the parents a picture of us in the nude?”

“No, of course not. The beach is ‘clothing optional.’ You don’t have to be naked. We will send a photo or two of the beautiful beach and us modestly dressed and no one nude in the background.”

“What are you going to do?”

“I shall certainly go topless, but am open minded about going the whole way. I think it is wrong that women have to cover their chests, when men do not.”

“My only reluctance is that I do not shave my pubes. With my dark hair it is very obvious. I will see what other women do.”

I like you as you are. Please do not shave there for me.”

I also like having my hair. I shall keep it, I think.

“I don’t know how I feel about being nude on the beach.”

“You can wear your trunks if you wish, no one will care. If you feel overdressed, then remove your trunks.”

“I will see, but I think I might have permanent erection!”

“I doubt if you will. As I understand it, most men know where to look, and it doesn’t become a problem. Just make sure that factor 50 goes over all your bits and pieces. I don’t want you sore tonight.”

“I have checked the tide times. We will have to leave the beach at about 2pm as it will disappear by 3pm at high tide.”

“That is good. I hadn’t thought of that, but it was you that chose this beach.”

They were walking down the hill path down to the beach.

“There are no facilities on the beach. I suggest we use the toilets at the campsite and buy some lunch and water at their shop.”

“You have this all planned it seems.”

“Yes. I did do a bit of planning early this morning. This beach is also near Minack so we will not have far to travel for the theatre.”

“What shall we do during high tide?”

“I suggest that we eat at The Logan Rock Inn in the village of Treen. It is a 16th-century pub just a short walk from the cliff path. It is known for real ales and home-cooked food.”

“The performance is at 8pm. Can we eat by then?”

“The pub is open from 11am until 11pm. There is no problem in getting to Minack for the play.”

“You have got all of this sorted, haven’t you?”

“Yes, I think so. It will be your turn tomorrow when we don’t have the car.”

“You still haven’t said what we are going to do after the beach is covered by the tide, and before eating.”

“I thought we might walk along the coastal path and enjoy each other’s company in any secluded spot we come across.”

“Have you also brought condoms?”

“Yes, of course. There are two in my purse. I am not going to miss the opportunity to enjoy each other that way, as well as sharing scintillating conversation of course.”

“Shall we get the photos sent to our parents first. I don’t want any naturists sunning themselves in the background.”

“Yes, but I doubt if there will be phone signal on the beach with it being surrounded by cliffs.”

“I am sure we can send it later, along with some photos of the theatre before the performance starts. I understand that it is spectacular when the sun begins to set.”

After clambering down to the beach and spreading their belongings out, they looked for a suitable backdrop then took the pictures needed for their parents. Andi looked stunning in her red bikini even though it covered more than she would have liked. There was, indeed, no phone signal on the beach. They read for a bit, but when that began to pall, Andi decided the sun was warm enough to take off her top and Miles had the pleasure of spreading suncream over both her front and back.

There was a good crowd of sunbathers on the beach by 11am but only a small number were naked.

Andi shrugged and slipped off the bottom of her costume then sat crosslegged so she could continue to read her eReader..

“What about you, Miles. Will you join me?”

Somewhat begrudgingly Miles looked round. The tide would be coming up fast in a couple of hours and the number of bathers still clambering down the path had diminished to almost nothing. No one was near them so he stripped off.

Andi was full of devilment. “I dare you to join me in a swim like this.”

“In for a penny, in for a pound.”

Miles got up and jogged down the sand until he could sit in the water up to his waist.

“Come on slowcoach” he shouted to Andi, who hadn’t really thought he would run down the beach naked.

She joined him as soon as she saw him jog off.

“We must only sit in the shallows. There are strong cross currents and the beach shelves.”

They sat on the sand with the water gradually rising until it was clear that they needed to move.

Reluctantly they walked back to their belongings and got dressed. The beach was emptying fast and they had to join a queue to start up the steep path to the junction with the coastal path.

Once the path was wide enough Andi became glued to his side and they walked slowly along the southern side of the coastal path. Very soon they were hidden from view and could sit and watch the tide cover the beach where they had been sitting so recently.

A stile opened onto to an empty grassy field off the main coastal path. They were hidden from any other walkers by the dry stone wall. They did have time to send the photographs to both sets of parents, but mostly talked about their future together an how to live together while at different universities.

Miles spent some of the time running his finger up Andi’s thigh and down again under her skirt. She slipped off her panties and put them in her bag.

“If you do that much more you will have to make love to me here in this field.”

“Is that a promise?”

“Silly boy. I am here whenever you are ready.”

Searching the Internet showed that there were small properties available for rent on a one year lease, but one of them at least would need to use a car.

“I think we have reached a point.” Miles said where being here is just an impediment to our planning. We need to be at home and talking to our parents and maybe to the Universities.”

“I agree with you. I suggest that we leave the hotel two days early, go into Penzance tomorrow to take the car back then in the morning visit St. Michael’s Mount before catching the train home tomorrow afternoon.”

I know St. Michael’s Mount is an island. When will the tide allow us to visit?

“The times are more or less the same as they have been on the beach today. We will have to walk out along the causeway well before lunch, and the causeway will flood by 2pm.”

“I have an Open Return Ticket with my Student Rail Card. How did you travel down, Miles?”

“I have the same.”

“Do we agree?”

“Yes, we agree.”

“I will book tickets for St. Michael’s Mount now for when the causeway is exposed, then we can eat before catching a train back late afternoon. We should get back before midnight. The journey will take five, maybe six or even seven hours.”

“Is that via London, or via Reading and Oxford?”

“That is via Reading and Oxford.

“Do we warn our parents that we want to sleep together?”

“It is only polite to do so. We will have to explain to your mother why you are not coming home tomorrow night.”

“I am sure my father will pick us up from the station if it is before Midnight. He is a bit of a night owl.”

“Do you have a double bed, Miles.”

“It is a queen size bed. It should be fine for one night. What about your bed Andi?”

“I have a single.”

“Then we persuade my parents to allow us to share.”

“When do we get on the phone to them?”

“Not now, no one will be at home. They are all at work, but we can phone from the car at the Theatre after we eat.”

The Logan Rock Inn was at the more expensive end of the local eateries, but both agreed to go there as a final evening of their holiday. Both had one of the many fish dishes on the menu, the local rockfish pie with its seasonal vegetables, then a portion of sticky toffee pudding. It was certainly filling.

They were in the car park at Minack in very good time to make those important phone calls.

Miles went first. He spoke on speaker phone to both his parents. They were happy to pick Miles and Andi up from the station. They were less happy about the sleeping arrangements, but acknowledged that Miles and Ali were well over the age of consent and accepted the fait accompli without seriously objecting.

Andi phoned her mother straight afterwards. She was even less accepting and kept saying to be careful. Andi said absolutely that she would ask her team at University if she could go on the pill. This did not immediately set her mother’s mind at rest.

“Mum. I am nineteen. I have my own life. I don’t want to worry you, but Miles and I have something much more than a holiday romance. We are planning to be together for always, so think of going to buy a special hat!”

“You don’t mean that do you?”

“Of course I mean it. Miles and I have talked about our lives together. Neither of us can see a future apart. Please support us.”

“Of course I support you. Both families need to talk through how we can help, and if this is true love then we will support you, but it is difficult to support you at the end of a phone line. By the way I thought the photos were lovely.”

“Thanks Mum. We will both see you after breakfast the day after tomorrow.”

They rang off, and Andi snuggled down for a few minutes before they found their way to their seats overlooking circular stage and beyond it, the bay.

Julius Caesar was suitably bloody, and Andi gripped Miles’ arm on several occasions when the realism of the time honoured story overwhelmed them. The interval seemed to be a distraction, but the play soon resumed and in no time they were standing and applauding the cast, then out into the night with a drive back to the hotel.

They made love back in Andi’s room quietly, and drifted off to sleep in each other’s arms, until Andi’s phone reacted to the alarm she had set up for 8am.

“Into the bathroom with you, then down to breakfast. We have to get the car back to the depôt by 10am.”

In fact Miles dashed out to his old room and had his shower and the other necessities there. He was back with Andi in a mere 20 minutes, ready to go down to breakfast.

Both had cereal and a full English before packing their few belongings and making a quick exit from both rooms. They told the Reception that they were abandoning the last two nights of their stay. The Manager was concerned that something had been wrong, but they assured him that everything was fine, and they just had too much that needed to be done at home.

The car was dropped off at 9:50 and they were able to walk with their bags to the station where they paid for two left luggage lockers. They used their existing Open tickets to book seats on the train from Penzance to Reading and were off to walk round the bay until they could cross to the island on the causeway. The walk would take about an hour and a half and they were well prepared with bottled water and sturdy shoes.

They marvelled at the sub-tropical gardens on the Mount, and wondered what it would be like to be one of the thirty or so residents of the island. After the visit they ate in the Kings Arms in the small Market Square, of Marazion before catching the bus back to the train station. They shared a local Crab sandwich, and also a smashed Avocado one. Both washed down with a large bottle of water.

The train journey was uneventful, but they had a further chance to talk about how to involve their parents in the important decisions they were about to take, but lapsed into silence as the evening wore on. Both had novels on the go on their phones, so read for the last part of the journey from Oxford, but rarely let go of each other’s hands.

It was after midnight when they got to Miles’ home. Katie and Vince had already decided that that night was not the time to start discussions, so after a quick snack and a hot drink the family went their own way with Andi seeing Miles’ room for the first time. Luckily he had the use of the family bathroom as his parents had an en suite, so they were able to get ready for bed quickly and were soon fast asleep.

The smell of breakfast wafted up the stairs at about 8am, and this roused to two sleeping lovers. Miles went downstairs and returned with two mugs of tea.

“That is amazing. I don’t get tea in bed at home.”

“Happy to be of service.”

“Mum. says come down in your wrap. Breakfast is nearly ready.”

Andi and Miles went down in dressing gown and wrap, looking as if they had just got up, which wasn’t far from the truth. Andi was hugged by Katie as she came down.

“I didn’t get a chance to welcome you here last night, so have a belated Welcome now.”

“Thanks. I do feel very welcome, here.”

“Did you both sleep well?”

“I don’t think either of us moved the whole night.” Miles commented.

Nothing was said while they ate, but it was clear that Katie and Vince needed an explanation of events in Cornwall, and Karen was expected to come round at 10:30 to be part of the discussion.

“Don’t worry about clearing the table, or the washing up. The dishwasher will take care of that. Please do what you need to do then Karen will be round soon after 10am and we can see how we can help you both.”

Showering and everything else took the best part of an hour. Andi had put on some light makeup, and was dressed in a long Teeshirt over jeans and sandals with bare feet. Miles also had a T and jeans. They both looked like the students they were.

“It didn’t sound too much like an inquisition when your father said about your Mum joining us.”

“I don’t think so. They know that we are both adults under the law, but my Mum and Dad would want to help if they can. From what I know of your Mum. I am sure she will be the same.”

“No. my Mum would not want to try to separate us. She will be concerned about my recent transgendering and all that goes with it. She will have been on to the medical staff at the University to get advice.”

“I think it is what a good parent would do. Getting advice over something as unusual, even unique, as your transgendering, is very sensible.”

“Will we need to explain about your transgendering to your Mum and Dad?”

“They will not know the detail yet, but we can give the whole story if needed. The important thing is that you are a fully functioning young woman with every expectation of living and loving as any other young woman has the right to do.”

“That is well said. I know what I was, but am fully invested in what I am now.”

“I think that is a car door. Perhaps we should go down and I can meet my future Mother-in-law.”

Andi kissed Miles in a moment of joy. “You do say the nicest things. That is the second proposal we have exchanged, and I love you for it.”

Andi gave her mother a kiss when she had got through the door.

“Did you sleep well?”

“Like a log.”

“You certainly look well after your holiday.”

“Please come into the sitting room. Karen. How do you like your coffee?”

“Black with no sugar, thank you, Katie.”

Soon the two families were sitting comfortably each with a coffee.

“Where shall we begin?”

“Miles. Can you fill us in with how you and Andi met on holiday and then, perhaps Andi can say what you did during the four days you were there.”

Miles repeated the story of the beach meeting and the revelation that Andi was the person Miles had known as Andrew at school. Andi continued the story with their instant and compulsive attraction, and their intention of spending the rest of their lives together.

When the story of the holiday eventually slowed to a stop and the dregs of coffee were cold, the parents began to question how they could help.

“Firstly”, Miles said. “We do not see any way that we can live apart whist finishing our degrees or for the foreseeable future. I am as much bound to Andi as she is to me.”

“Is this what is known as a ‘Marriage made in Heaven?”

“I think we have all heard the phrase, and may have seen movies based on the idea, but is it real?”

“I think we are an example of it. Miles is my other half, my foil, my partner in everything. He is the prospective father of our children, and grandfather of our grandchildren.”

Karen wiped a tear away from her eye at this revelation. “I never dreamt that I would hear those words from a rather troubled son. I am overjoyed to hear it from my beautiful daughter.”

Katie handed over a box of tissues to Karen. She was not far from tears herself.

“I love Miles with all my being. I would be beyond sadness not to be with him for a part of each day. I hope that we may be able to start a business together after finishing our degrees. I have already thought of a small scale enterprise that could use our combined skills.”

Vince broke into the conversation.

“We have not been idle since your phone calls only a few hours ago.”

“It is not recommended that you move Universities, Andi. You need to remain under the care of the medical and psychiatric services who know your condition well and your aegrotat award for the year just finished has no validity at any other University.”

“Miles, it would be possible for you to move University but the engineering faculty at Andi’s University would want you to repeat year two. They will only give you advanced standing for year one.”

“I though that would be the case, Dad. We have thought of renting a flat between our two universities. The accommodation is a little cheaper away from major towns. but at least one of us would need a car.”

“There is an alternative.” Vince said

Andi and Miles sat up at that statement.

“There is a charity at Andi’s university set up by a benefactor a long time ago which owns a property on campus that contains four apartments. The charity was a religious one, and stipulated that the apartments could only be let to married couples. The University has challenged the bequest in court previously, but it stands. The number of married couples is rather few nowadays amongst students because many young people do not believe in marriage, or quite reasonably cannot bring themselves to commit to a life together at your age. Two of those apartments are empty for this coming year. Between us we can pay the lower than average subsidised rent on one of those apartments. The savings we would make over renting a commercial property would cover the cost of a small second hand car for Miles who will have to drive about 100 miles a day. The big proviso is that there will need to be a marriage before you can move in.”

“I know those apartments from the outside. They are right on campus but isolated with their own bit of garden. There is also a parking space for each apartment.”

“We think you should go to your Campus today. I will drive you, Vince said. The Accommodation Office is expecting you and will show you both apartments. Talk as much as you like about it on the way, but to occupy one of those apartments you will need to be married at a Register Office or elsewhere. There will be no large wedding, no white frock, no bridesmaids, just you two, and the three of us as witnesses.”

Miles’ mum interjected. “There is nothing to stop you having those things later on, but time is of the essence here. You will have to give 29 days notice to the Registrar. This is the minimum, before the ceremony can take place, and you will need to shop around to find a Register Office that has a vacancy on the 30th day after notice has been given.”

“If the idea seems possible, say so. Dad will drive you to the University. You can see the apartments by lunch time, then he will take you to the Oxford Register Office who can see which office or sub-office has a vacancy in a month’s time. It can be done today, and then you can enjoy the rest of your holiday. We will pay the £200 fee because it seems to be the best way forward. You two seem destined for each other and we have needed to find a way to help you as parents should.”

“What about a ring?”

“You may not know it, but my grandmother left me her engagement ring when she died. It is a beautiful sapphire and diamond cluster set in platinum on an 18 carat band. It may seem a bit old fashioned, but it was used for a loving lifetime that she and grandpa enjoyed. They were married over sixty years. If you would like it, it will need resizing. That will take a week or so, but then it can be yours. I have it in its box under this cushion.”

Katie drew out the rather worn shagreen box and drew out the beautiful diamond and sapphire cluster. It glowed as the sunlight shone through it. Katie put it over her little finger to show it off.

“It is beautiful. I would wear it with pride and could remember the very happy marriage your grandparents had. It would be an amazing start to our marriage.”

“That is a pretty broad hint that you, at least are committed to this marriage.” Vince said.

“What about you Miles. Yes or No?”

“Yes, with all my heart. I know the travelling will be tedious from time to time, but it is a small price to pay to be able to live with Andi and support her in getting her degree.”

“Let’s get on the road then. I will get the car round and Katie and Karen can have the rest of the day to sort out how an instant marriage can be arranged.”

The 80 mile journey took nearly two hours, but Miles had phoned ahead and the Accommodation officer was available to show both furnished apartments to them. Both were nice, but they chose one on the first floor that overlooked a large grass quadrangle.

The Accommodation officer took them back to her office and they completed the paperwork and Vince paid a deposit of the first month’s rent. The Accommodation Officer reminded them of the stipulation that they must show a valid marriage certificate when they arrived at the end of September or the deposit would be forfeit.

Next they visited the Register Office and completed the forms. They had their birth certificates, drivers licences and passports with them. Karen had thoughtfully brought Andi’s new documents with her.

There were no vacancies at any local Register Office, but the large Register Office in Oxford had a vacancy at 9:30 in the morning just 30 days later. This was, apparently a very unpopular time. No friends and family could be expected to arrive that early from far away, but it was ideal for Miles and Andi.

They discussed whether it was bad luck for the groom to see the bride the day before the wedding. Decided that it was rubbish, and wanted to spend the night in each other’s arms as they would for the rest of their lives.

Vince booked three rooms at a hotel near the Register Office for the night before the wedding and Miles rang both mothers to keep them informed.

Karen and Andi were discussing a wedding trousseau for Andi when they got home.

“On Monday morning we are going shopping. Your outfit may not be a long white dress, but you will have an outfit to be proud of for your wedding photographs, and Vince is going to take Miles out to get a nice suit, shirt a tie, and shoes.”

“Why are you doing all this for us. We would be very sad to have to compromise and live apart until our courses finish but many young couples have to compromise.”

“We are doing it because we recognise that what you two have is something very special. Something that is very rare and we will do everything we can to give you the very best start. If you end up starting in business together as you have said, then you will need a firm marriage to support you in the difficulties there are in forming any viable business.”

Andi and Miles went round and kissed all three parents and said their thank yous.

“Will you mind if we have some time together before dinner. We have a lot to think about.”

“Of course, but we have booked for a family meal at the local Greek restaurant we all like in town, so get dressed in something nice.”

“All my clean clothes are at home.”

“What do you want to wear, Andi. I will go home in the car and get whatever you would like me to bring.”

“Andi thought a moment and listed a short navy skirt and similarly coloured sheer blouse with matching underwear, dark tights and black shoes. She already had the basics of makeup in her holiday bag and a spray bottle of her favourite perfume.”

“We will need to be out of the house in two hours.”

Karen returned in just over an hour. She had changed and freshened up in that time, and Andi was soon ready as well.

Miles was a bit overwhelmed with all that had gone on that day, but having Andi close to him, ameliorated any emotional confusion.

The Greek restaurant delivered Kir Royale in champagne flutes as soon as they were seated.

“We are here to celebrate. A toast to Andi and Miles. “Good health and bounteous happiness to you both.”

When they were seated there were two empty seats with cutlery and glasses.

“Why are there two empty place settings?” , Miles asked.

His question was answered when Spencer, Miles’ brother walked in with his girlfriend Maisie.

There were hugs all round. Katie was the first to notice the diamond solitaire on Maisie’s ring finger. With a squeal, she rushed over and Spencer and Maisie were hugged by everyone again.

The glasses of Kir were refilled and a new toast to Spencer and Maisie were proposed.

The combined families did not need more alcohol to make the evening go well, so they ordered bottles of non-alcoholic sparkling drink.

Bowls of mezé appeared, juicy Greek olives and lashings of olive oil, then sharing bowls of Tzatziki and Taramasalata. Melitzanosalata and Tyrokafteri and lots of warm pita breads cut into slices just right to be dipped.

After a brief discussion the whole group opted for a large plate of grilled fish for the main course with fries and tartar sauce, and the meal ended with tiny slivers of Baklava, Galaktoboureko, and Kataifi on individual plates delivered with small cups of intensely strong Greek coffee.

A happy group returned to Miles’ home. Katie had thought that it might be lonely for Karen to return to her home alone, so she had invited her to spend the night in their guest room.

Spencer and Maisie wanted to hear everything that had brought Miles and Andi together and any discussion about their own plans were put on hold until the following weekend, and even then they made it clear that they were playing the long game. Nevertheless they both made it clear that they would attend the little wedding if they possibly could get off from work. After a further round of hugs Spencer and Maisie drove the twenty miles to the home they shared.

Karen was able to kiss everyone goodnight. It was to be a very busy day in the morning and the house was quiet by 11pm. Andi had stayed awake for a few minutes listening to Miles’ steady breathing then she drifted off even though happiness was bubbling over inside her.

The morning was beautiful sunshine and when everyone was breakfasted, and the dishwasher was loaded, the families left. Katie had decided to come with Andi and Karen and to choose an outfit for herself that would not clash with whatever Karen would buy for herself as mother of the bride.

Andi chose an creamy coloured trouser suit with matching underwear and shoes. It didn’t look too much like a wedding outfit and as she said quite pragmatically, it would do for interviews and formal occasions later.

Karen and Katie both chose calf length blue dresses in different shades. Katie’s sleeveless dress was enhanced with a matching blazer, whereas Karen was satisfied with a Paisley pattern silk wrap that was predominantly shades of blue.

Neither wanted a hat or fascinator.

The three women grabbed a quick salad and diet coke before making the return journey. Karen dropped Katie off before they went home and then set all the new clothes on hangers. Andi joined her later.

It was almost time for Andi to start her internship at a local chemical company and Karen had a shift where she worked at the dental technology firm the next day, even though it was a Sunday. She was prone to saying that all those people who had broken dentures, or needed crowns and bridges found it difficult to wait.

It was a time for Andi and Karen to unwind and prepare for a very ordinary few weeks ahead.

Miles had a few more days before his holiday job started, but he needed to get two design projects set by his University completed and there was always the masses of holiday reading that the University set.

He also had to drag himself back to the reality of being a student entering his final year, but Vince and he had the chance to look at the second hand cars that were available at local dealerships. They looked for low mileage and low insurance group cars, and both had looked for marques that had a good reputation for second hand purchases. Much as Miles yearned for something sporty, his father constrained his exuberance and they went to see several very dull silver hatchbacks that most definitely would not turn heads, but would drive 500 miles a week on little more than one tank of petrol.

The price of the insurance as a younger driver was shocking, but putting Andi on the policy lowered the premium a bit. After some deliberation they added Andi under what would be her married name! This simple, but symbolic act, brought a tear of joy to the eyes of both men.

They looked at having a telematics device fitted, but the reduction on the insurance cost was not significant, and they abandoned the idea.

Everything that could be done, had been done and Miles, like Andi had to settle down to a mundane few weeks before the big day.

Miles looked at his new suit that hung in his cupboard in its bag and took it out just to look at it every few days.

Was his meeting on the beach serendipitous or fate? He would never know but he had a little frisson of excitement each time he looked at that suit and could imagine it hanging in the wardrobe of the bedroom of the apartment he would shortly be sharing with Andi, and his heart would go out to her.