Dear Readers, This is an apology and an explanation. I started Wildcat Fall earlier this year and realized it wasn't the story I wanted to tell. So, I have started from scratch, and here is a completely new Chapter One. This is the continuing saga. I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am writing this story. Thanks.
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New Chapter Two
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The Cats gazed over the empty seats of the Hollywood Bowl. They stepped back as forklifts moved large crates of equipment. Union stagehands set up scaffolding to support extra lights for TV broadcasts. Massive cameras rolled into position. Two cranes with camera booms connected to tractor-trailers transporting a full TV studio. Overhead, flexible screens hung at the top of the open-air venue.

Lisa turned to Zoe. “It’s happening.”

They watched miles of cables being unrolled. Crews handled sound, adjusting the musicians' monitors and installing large speakers for the audience. A group climbed scaffolding to prepare their spotlights.

It was early Monday morning. Teri waved to get the band’s attention. They gathered in a small circle as Phil handed each of them a large binder.

Tiffany held her three-ring notebook up and laughed. “Oh, this is so middle school. I love it, but I need to practice writing 'Mrs. Michael Taylor' over and over again in my fanciest script. Phil, can I put some glitter on the outside? Maybe some stickers, you know, the puffy kind.”

Without pausing, Tiffany kept going. “And I’m going to need glasses.”

Gina stared. “Are you having trouble seeing? Getting headaches?”

“No. Nothing like that. I’m thinking big, thick, black frames.”

Lisa laughed. “Schoolgirl glasses!”

Tiff nodded.

Phil waited until everyone stopped laughing and then raised the binder. “There’s a studio two blocks away, large enough to rehearse and record with the talent. On Saturday, we’ll be back here to block everything out. Beyoncé and Taylor will be here Saturday afternoon to rehearse before the show.”

Lisa looked through the book. “This is unreal.”

Teri smiled at Lisa. “We have the week to master it, and it’s going to be easy.”

Tiffany laughed, “Right. Just keep the alcohol out of my reach.”

Gina laughed. “You’ll have Mike help you get rid of your anxieties. I doubt you can wear out that fine specimen of a man.”

Zoe laughed. “He is cute.”

As they looked around, Phil grabbed a large boom box. Everyone followed Teri’s arrangement on the sheet music as they listened to Halo.

Phil cleared his throat. “Jay-Z is making a guest appearance to do his part for Crazy in Love.”

Lisa looked over the song and laughed. “We need big horns. Thank goodness we have our Flower Sisters.”

Tiffany shook her head. “I don’t know. This sounds like a lot to learn in just a few days. I’d rather write my new name and hide in my room listening to music.” Tiffany raised her hand. "Uncle Phil, can I borrow that boombox?”

Zoe smiled, “That’s the spirit, girl! But did you see the list of movie stars who are giving speeches? Turn to the back index.”

They all looked at the list of celebrities.

“Oh,” Tiffany whispered. “So many stars to fall in love with me, then whisk me away to their private island in Tahiti.”

Gina chuckled, “That’s your latest plan?”

Tiffany nodded. “It is. And after this week, you’ll need to find a new bass player who sings, dances, writes music, and looks beautiful. But hey, nothing’s forever, right?”

Lisa nodded, hiding her grin. “Tiff, we’re going to miss you. Why don’t we have your going-away party this week, since you’ll be leaving with Prince Charming on Saturday night?”

Tiffany nodded, “A party! Great idea, Lisa. Could we invite Mike?”

Lisa tried not to laugh. “Sure. But aren’t you leaving him and the band?”

Yeah. I really love him, but you know. I mean, I love all you guys and will miss the band and everything, but I’m going to have a billionaire.

Phil had been around the band long enough to dismiss their playfulness. “Well, let’s bus over to the rehearsal studio. The Flowers should be arriving, and we can start going through our five-hour mission.”

Zoe asked, “How many recording artists are performing?”

Phil nodded. “There’ll be twenty-five acts. It’s all in your notebooks.”

Gina leaned over to Teri, “So let me get this straight, we’re not doing a Wildcats set for this fundraiser?”

Teri nodded, “Uh-huh. We fill in and perform originals during commercial breaks. We’ll entertain the live crowd.”

Gina snickered. “We’re playing while everyone talks, walks around, eats, and goes to the bathroom?”

Teri smiled. “Right. Just like every other time we play.”

Gina shook her head. “That’s not true. When we do our shows, the fans listen.”

Teri winked. “Maybe we’ll have more fans after this. Saturday, we’re backing up the stars.”

In the meantime, Lisa was glancing at her notebook. “Jeez, sis. How did you keep all this straight?”

Teri shrugged. “Phil’s been a big help. We’re using the talents’ sheet music. I’ve made new arrangements for the Flowers and the band.”

Zoe smiled. “But still no Wildcats theme music.”

Teri laughed and shook her head. “We can only hope.”

After practicing all day with the Flowers, they headed back to the hotel. Tiffany was talking about her boyfriend. “I’m looking forward to jumping on Mike when he gets here. He’s the second director all week, coordinating drones and boom cameras. He’ll be exhausted when he’s done. It’ll be my job to sex him up to keep his spirits high.”

Zoe looked at her curiously. “Sounds like Mike should be taking you out to dinner or showing you the town.”

Tiff was nodding. “Shopping’s a great idea. I was hoping to look for fetish wear. I figure LA is the best place to find vinyl and leather. You know how I look great in black.”

Zoe shook her head. “You’ve been reading too many X-rated romance novels. Slow down, girlfriend.”

“Are you going to tell Mike about your Prince Charming plan?” Teri smiled.

“Teri, are you serious? Mike is Mr. Perfect, and I wouldn’t want to lose him. Honey, I’m not stupid.”

Teri shook her head. Tiffany never made much sense, but she always kept the band from getting bored. “Never said you were, but what if?”

Tiffany smiled. “Sure, baby. But the offer has to be good enough for me to leave Mr. Right.”

The bus drove straight onto the tarmac to meet the chartered flight bringing the Allentown group to LAX. Then, they headed to the Chateau Marmont, the famous hotel on Sunset Boulevard. They were greeted by the Wildcats, Phil, Richard, the Flower Sisters, and William Wiggins. After receiving their room keys, everyone was encouraged to relax and unwind after their long flight.

After Teri helped Jenn finish unpacking, they climbed onto the bed. Jenn talked about their new place in West Philly. “Your mom and I scouted out a great condo. We talked to Gina’s dad, then used your money to buy it.”

Teri hugged her. “That’s incredible. At eighteen, we’re buying a house.”

Jenn turned to kiss her. “Just think, our very own place, and it’s three blocks from the University of Pennsylvania campus. That’s great!”

Jenn pushed Teri down and climbed on top of her. She used her weight to press her further down. She loved hearing Teri’s breathing increase and she started to pant. “I really enjoyed buying this place, but didn’t want to slight you. I worried that you might feel hurt because I took control.”

Teri wrapped her arms around Jenn’s neck. She softly kissed her lips, slowly increasing the pressure and intensity. “No, you enjoy being in charge. You like the responsibility. I appreciate you taking care of us.” She was feeling overcome with flushes of passion as Jenn gripped her firmly.

Teri gasped. “ After three months of touring, I might have well have been on the space station, floating alone in a vacuum.”

“The space station, huh? Did you feel that isolated?”

“I felt trapped in a bus driving far away from you. Each night, more miles separated us.”

“Hmm.” Jenn kissed her everywhere. “I did love our reunions when we’d get time together.”

“Uh-huh. I lived for them. And now I've got these lyrics buzzing through my head. Please wait for me.” She grabbed her tablet and wrote:

Heading into deep space
Rocketing away
No time to think or worry
Just steering the course.

Thousand of miles,
Long days and nights.
Too far to reach out
And hold your hand.

Jenn looked at what Teri wrote. “Looks like David Bowie’s Major Tom. This makes me feel loved.” She kissed her hard on the lips and continued keeping Teri in her power.

Teri smiled. “How’d you know I was writing this about us?”

Jenn laughed. “You’re just not that complicated.”

Teri told her about Tiffany and her plan to make a movie star fall in love with her.

“But I thought Mike made her happy.”

“Oh, he does. She just has this wild imagination. Now, how about a shower?”

Tiffany was undressing Mike before they walked through the door. “C’mon, baby. We’ve got to make up for lost time.”

Mike lifted her up, and threw her onto the bed. He grinned. “Lost time, huh? You mean you missed me?”

Tiffany snuggled into his arms. “Uh-huh. Missed you so bad. Now what can we do about it?”

Mike slipped out of his clothes and let his body speak for itself. After several gasps and moans, he murmured, “How’s that?”

Tiffany smiled and kissed him. “Mmm. Maybe we can try a little boot camp and get you working harder. Teach you how to toe the line and get things done.”

Mike flipped her over so he was on top. “Are we talking about discipline, paddling?”

Tiff frowned. “Oh, but Mikey. I’ve never paddled anyone.”

Mike held her wrists firmly and whispered, “I was picturing me administering the discipline.”

Tiffany’s eyes opened wide. “Really?”

Mike murmured, “Might be just what you need. You might like it.”

Tiffany started giggling.

Smith and Lisa ignored the slow elevators and hurried up the stairs together, stopping at every landing to hold each other tightly and kiss passionately. By the time they reached their suite, they were happy making love on the thick carpet.

As they were lying there, Lisa climbed on top and looked down. “You know, they’re talking about us.”

“Who?”

“The band.”

“How’s that?”

Lisa smiled. “They describe our lovemaking as very physical.”

Smith frowned. “Is that bad? Should we be doing something different?” He reached down and began tickling her.

Lisa gritted her teeth, grasped his hands tightly, and quickly uttered, “Stop that!”

Smith cooed. “Why, honey bun? We could touch softly and practice Tantric lovemaking. We can meditate and do deep breathing exercises.”

Lisa held his wrists to stop him from tickling her again. When he started touching her softly like that, she hated how it drove her crazy. “Hold me tightly,” she said through gritted teeth.

Smith laughed and smacked her backside. “Like that?”

Lisa roared in pain and swung at him. “Yes.”

Zoe’s belly made it difficult to comfortably curl up in Bruno’s arms. He gently explored her body, looking for tender ways to reignite their passion.

They carefully undressed each other and sat on the shower floor as the water poured down on them.

Grace and Gina walked hand in hand from the elevator to their suite, taking their time to slowly undress each other. Then, they climbed into the large tub, adding more hot water as they held each other tightly, surrounded by soap and scented bubbles.

Gina kissed Grace passionately. As she softly bit her neck, she murmured, “I love the thought of having you for a whole week.”

Later, each suite woke to the phone informing them that the limos would be downstairs in ninety minutes to take them to dinner.

They were driven to Somni, an upscale restaurant in West Hollywood, and enjoyed a twenty-course tasting menu, including sparkling waters.

As they ate, the buzz continued. Laughing and joking, everyone caught up. They quieted when Richard stood. “We’re here to celebrate the Wildcats' first national tour. Everyone here contributed to the band's success with their love and support. This week, while the Cats rehearse, I’ll be offering day trips to our guests. The itinerary is in front of you. I’ve arranged shopping excursions. GLOW is welcoming all of you to their Rodeo Drive salon for an afternoon of spa relaxation. Please join us to sightsee, shop, or enjoy the beautiful hotel grounds. I want to remind you that Jessica Jade and John Mac Issac are heading up our security, and we ask you to take advantage of their company, even if you want some quiet time.

As everyone reviewed the day trip information, William Wiggins spoke. “Folks, Warner Music is excited about our Wildcats' national success. All their hard work has led to sold-out shows everywhere, while keeping their music on the charts. Now, please be our guests and enjoy this wonderful week.”

After dinner, they toured LA’s famous spots, including the rock clubs, Santa Monica Pier, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, Venice, and the movie studios.

Every evening, the entourage enjoyed a private dinner at some of Los Angeles' top venues, providing everyone with a chance to socialize and relax after a busy day. Each night, the Cats shared stories about the stars they met, while the Allentown guests talked about their day trips around LA.

Lisa questioned Richard about security. “Seriously, what are we supposed to fear? What do you know?”

Richard frowned. “Well, we’re walking into the perfect storm here at the Hollywood Bowl. You’ve been making lots of new friends, and while we get the occasional creepy stuff, it’s been harmless. But all the publicity surrounding the fundraiser has brought the band back into the public eye, and we’ve been getting a few strange notes on the internet. The FBI was informed of everything. They have a whole department that maintains files and is familiar with the usual suspects. The fact that you’re all beautiful young women focuses attention on the band.”

“Uh, should we be worried? Is this going to be like New Orleans again?”

Well, not yet. But Jessica and her team are working to protect the families and the band. The talent has their own security. I’m not too worried, but we want everyone to stay safe.

Lisa was glad she wasn’t Teri, who tended to imagine entire scenarios.

When Lisa brought it up, Teri raised her hands to her face and shook her head. “You know, Lisa. I never thought I’d grow old. Jenn says she wants to live in Paris, and I’ll play in little clubs. A dream life. But I don’t see it. Amos almost killed me twice, and it’s still in my head."

Lisa hugged her. “Well, Jessica rescued you the first time and was there to deflect him the second time. He’s gone.”

Teri was nodding. “I can still see him pointing that shotgun at me. High noon and a showdown on Royal Street.”

Lisa smiled. “I think that during rehearsals and hanging out, the Cats should stay out of interviews and the public eye as much as possible. This fundraiser is outdoors, and security is the city’s concern. Those police are used to hosting dignitaries. We’re fine."

“Well, if you say so. I’m just wondering if they have low-profile bulletproof armor that I can coat with glitter.”

Lisa hugged her. “Yeah, glitter.”

Later, Teri was sharing her conversation when Jenn started crying. “I don’t like it. The Cats have been the most giving band, and well, you don’t do anything wrong. And now you’re giving up all this time to raise money. Why people should hate you is beyond me.”

Teri hugged her and kissed the tears from her cheeks. “Uh-huh. It sucks big time. When we are rehearsing, there are all these police-like men and women standing around looking ready to shoot anyone who gets out of hand.”

“I just worry. We’ve never been in the spotlight before.”

Teri hugged her close. “Actually, the Wildcats have gotten a lot of TV coverage. Those appearances on the Ellen Show and the Tonight Show made everyone familiar with our band’s name. And when Wiggins held a press conference and announced our multi-million dollar contract with Warner’s, well, suddenly people wanted to know about us. We never thought that Fur Face would become a viral meme, and we’d be on the Today Show.”

Jenn kissed her. “Shit. I don’t want anything happening to my girlfriend. I couldn’t live without you.”

Teri smiled. “Kinda like Romeo and Juliet.”

Jenn looked at her curiously. “Are you still thinking about your rock opera?”

Teri nodded. “After this ends, it’s what I’m going to work on.”

When Saturday arrived, the Cats were escorted to the site for a sound check and final walk-through. The grounds of the Hollywood Bowl had been roped off all week, and only people with passes were allowed inside. Even then, everyone was stopped, and IDs were checked multiple times. Everywhere you looked, there were police officers and dogs. The plainclothes officers were easy to identify because they wore suits on a warm afternoon. Everyone had been issued photo IDs.

Teri shook her head. “It’s like the President is making an appearance.”

Lisa looked around. She shook her head at Zoe. “Looks like a war zone.”

“All the trailers remind me of North Carolina and the movie set for Chances.”

Gina smiled, recalling the movie set. “I think that was better organized, and they didn’t have this big security profile.”

Tiffany closed her eyes. “I’m still wishing for a star to sweep me off my feet and turn me into a princess.”

Gina laughed. “More like some toad kidnapping you and making you their slave girl in Saudi Arabia.”

Tiffany looked horrified. “Don’t we have bodyguards?”

Gina shook her head. “You haven’t watched enough terrorist movies. They’d come right in and take over completely. They’d be holding everyone hostage for Bitcoin.”

Zoe chuckled. “I think you’re confusing Batman movies with real life.”

Gina looked at Zoe. “You mean Batman’s not real?”

They went through security and took the stage. The union workers had moved all their equipment onto risers.

Phil was there as they examined their equipment and unpacked their guitars and the Flower Sisters’ horns. Teri was talking to Phil while he showed her the controls for their sound.

Teri slipped on a headset with a microphone. “Everyone has a headset to adjust. We’ll still hear our sound, but all the other director stuff just comes through to my headset.”

The Cats were ready. After a week’s rehearsal, they were calm.

They sat on stools and listened as the speakers had their final run-throughs. They watched as the lighting crews adjusted their spots.

Then it was time to greet Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. Their entourage all stood in the wings and offstage, while the two women were introduced to Phil and the band.

Teri greeted them warmly but couldn’t stop shaking with excitement. She was amazed at how kind they were. Both listened carefully to hear what Teri had to say, but they kept laughing and saying things like, “My daughter is almost your age or I’ve got socks older than you.” Neither could believe that Teri had sent them arrangements, complete with sheet music, so their musicians could rehearse their show.

Beyoncé was smiling and frequently hugging Teri. “Baby, you’re the same age I was when I first cut a single. And look at you running the whole show!”

Both Beyoncé and Taylor stopped singing when the Cats began harmonizing as their backup voices. They exchanged looks and laughed, praising the band for how impressive they sounded.

Taylor Swift couldn’t believe how tight the band was. “I’m going to steal all of you to open shows for me. I’ve got plans to do a big tour coming up. We’re calling it the Era’s Tour, and it’s going worldwide.”

An hour later, both women kissed and hugged everyone goodbye, saying they’d see them later that night.

Tiffany spoke. “Where do you think they’re going? Do you think they’re staying in some hotel or with someone who lives here?”

Zoe patted her on the back. “Oh, honey. I’m sure both of them own homes here. They could be in the Hollywood Hills or out in Malibu. Both these women have enough money to own ten houses.”

Tiffany shook her head. “It’s hard to believe. They’re the best in the world, and we got to hang out with them. Wow!”

Teri was nodding and wiping the tears from her eyes. “Could you tell that I was shaking the whole time. I’m sure you could hear it in my voice.”

Lisa wrapped her arm around Teri’s shoulder. “They loved you and your work. Seriously, you sent all those arrangements out to them weeks ago, right?”

Teri nodded.

Lisa kept up her pep talk. “Well, they came ready to work. Both of them had rehearsed and were ready to play. Everything went perfectly.”

Teri tried to smile. “I hope it goes that well tonight.”

Gina laughed. “It’s going to be great. You watch. That’s when they’ll let it all rip and shoot for the moon. Both of them are total professionals.”

By four o’clock, they’d finished dress rehearsal. Richard arrived to make sure they got fed, dressed, and ready to be presented to Gina’s sister, Isabella, for hair and makeup.

Teri quietly slipped away by herself and found a spot outside the lounge. She looked up at the hazy, smoggy downtown LA and tried to smile. She had done everything she could to make this work. Everyone was ready, and it felt like the same nerves she got before every Cats show. She closed her eyes and remembered the first time she dressed up and played with the band on a Thursday night during her Spring Break. She recalled how fun it was and how scared she felt standing on that stage.

She looked down at her nails. One of her projects was learning to take care of her hands on her own. Tiffany had done a good job of teaching her. Now, they were glossy silver just like her hair. She shook her head, thinking about how much she had changed. Teri was like her hair and nails, all glossy and smooth.

She felt tears streaming down her face and realized she’d found her dream of playing in a band. But she was a different person who stood on that stage the first night. That person had vanished, or perhaps had never existed. She’d tried to remember if she’d ever had any testosterone-driven fantasies. She always came up short. As she let the sobs shake her body, she felt herself being embraced and held. She smelled the perfume and knew it was her sister.

She turned and looked at her sister as she squeezed her tightly. “Lisa, it’s okay. I just get lost sometimes.”

Lisa kissed her cheek and smiled. “We all do, honey. I get frightened when I realize that I’m a grown-up and have to behave.”

“What do you do?”

“I run, work out, or fuck Smith. It helps me realize that I haven’t lost anything.”

“I hate running and working out. I do it because it’s a Wildcat thing.”

Lisa murmured in her ear. “You haven’t lost anything. It’s all still there.”

Teri shook her head. “I don’t know. I stopped hanging out with the guys playing video games.”

Lisa laughed. “No shit. You can hang out with your boys and play Slime Ball Stompers anytime too. You could probably chill with your friends and beat them. They’d be so mesmerized, they’d do anything you want.”

Teri was grinning. “Yeah, I have changed.”

Oh, baby. You might have been an ugly duckling, but you’ve grown into a beautiful swan. Now, wipe your face and go find Isabella.

Teri found Isabella and gave her a big hug. “I think I want to just let everything go for the next couple of months. We’ll be in Philly, and Jenn heads to school. Maybe search for a new look.”

Isabella was back to brushing Teri’s hair and twisting it into a pageboy for tonight. “Sure, honey. Change is always good. Think about color and extensions. Might be time to change it up.”

Teri smiled. “Let me think about it. I want to run it by Jenn and hear what she thinks.”

Of course you do. She’s the most important person in your life. We can all sit down for a consultation," Isabella smiled. Over the past year, she’d seen many changes in Teri.

After Tiffany was finished, she tracked down the studio trailer where Mike was working. She showed her pass and snuck in. As she crept in, Mike turned and smiled.

“Hey, I was hoping to surprise you.”

Mike pointed to the fifty monitors on racks in front of them. He grinned. “I saw you coming from five different angles.”

She kissed him. “How’d I look?”

“Beautiful as usual. Everyone’s jealous cause you’re mine.”

It had been a long week, but the band was ready when the lights came on. The Wildcats started with Ellen’s TV theme song. Teri and Gina played percussion and drums, the Flowers played trumpets and sax, while Tiff grooved on her bass. They all sang, “Have a little fun today.” The audience rose as one, cheering for Ellen DeGeneres.

Ellen greeted the TV viewers and live audience. She thanked everyone participating. She explained why they were there, then she introduced George Clooney.

From that moment on, it was a fast-paced train ride. The Cats supported every talent and occasionally showcased their own material. The audience moved around during the commercials to shake hands, hug, and chat.

Every time a speaker went on stage, the Wildcats would slip off and refresh. After five days of rehearsals, they knew their cues. But live shows always go off the rails. Some of the talent didn’t make it, and some went a little over their allotted time. A few women decided to stay on stage and sing backup with the Cats. Those crazy moments were exciting. Everyone knew there’d be blow-ups and detours, but the Cats were in their comfort zone. As Lisa said, “The pressure’s on the talent. We’re just along for the ride.”

And then it was over.

Teri put her headset down and reached for a water bottle. She took a deep sip and relished their achievements. All she’d ever wanted was to play and create musical arrangements. Before the Wildcats, she’d hoped to earn a four-year music degree. Now, she was actually arranging music in the real world. She had written and arranged music for the Cats. When they were in New Orleans, she helped Eaten By Raptors develop their new album and rework their old tunes. And now Beyoncé and Taylor knew who she was.

It had exactly been what Gina had said. Every star had given their best. The evening had flown by quickly.

Zoe checked her watch as the moon shone high in the sky. Playing outside at the Bowl had been a fantastic experience. She saw Lisa and walked over.

“Hey, girl. I usually liked the quiet that goes along with the middle of the night, but tonight, this might as well be high noon.”

As they walked together, talking, they had to be careful as crews operating forklifts and cranes dismantled the stage and lowered the light stands. Stagehands were coiling up the cables and sliding speakers into storage cases. The effort was immense, involving tractor-trailer trucks full of TV equipment and packing up a complete broadcast studio.

Lisa shook her head. “I’m glad we run every day. If you’d have told me that I’d have any energy left after playing all night, I would have never believed it.”

Zoe laughed. “Thank goodness they had those famous people talking between musical acts, discussing where the money was going and all the good things those donations would do. If it weren’t for them, we never would have had time to eat or use the bathroom.”

Lisa smiled. “The whole thing was one big adrenaline rush. I mean, running around playing keyboards, guitars, singing backup, and reading sheet music for the biggest stars in music. I never thought that five girls from Allentown would be backing up all the world’s biggest stars all in the same day.”

Tiffany joined them. She leaned in. “Do you think anyone noticed us?. Whenever we played our music, they went to a commercial.”

Teri was nodding. “Oh, yeah. I had a monitor in front of me showing everything that was being televised. We got a lot of face time. And the cameras loved the Flower Sisters playing their shiny brass. But you know, the world won’t hear our original music until the downloads and videos come out.”

Zoe was nodding. “Well, regardless of us being lost in the shuffle, it was a job worth doing. And I’ll be able to tell little Boomer that she was there for the whole thing.”

Teri’s eyes brightened. “She, as in, Boomer’s a girl?”

Zoe shrugged and gave a sly smile. “We’ll know when we see her.”

Tiffany got in on it. “Names?”

Zoe shook her head. “Secret, and my lips are sealed.”

As Teri filed away all the sheet music and placed it in a large box, Tiffany looked at the massive pile of music. “I saw Beyoncé and Taylor Swift autographing your copy of their set music and giving you hugs and kisses. Those arrangements were genius, and both women seemed to have a fun time.”

Lisa smiled. “I think we forget that talent is full of the same insecurities we have. They really took a leap tonight. One day of rehearsing and boom, they’re on prime-time television.”

Gina nodded. “I think that nervousness only makes them work harder. They motivated each other through their performances tonight. And they knew that it went well.”

Zoe cheered. “This time tomorrow, Bruno and I will be sleeping in another suite in Hawaii. We’re flying straight from LA to the Islands. I’m taking advantage of all the time we have alone together before our Boomer arrives.”

Gina laughed and turned to Zoe. “You mean to say, you won’t miss any of us? How can you go weeks without seeing my smiling face?”

Zoe chuckled. “Send me a picture of you and Grace living the high life in her penthouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side, and I’ll think loving thoughts about both of you.”

Lisa was smiling. “Well, this time tomorrow, Smith and I are heading to visit his parents in Austin, then going off to his mountain-top ranch in Nashville. We’re planning to hide out with campfires and marshmallows. It’s all about s’mores.”

Tiffany shook her head. “Well, while the three of you are heading out of town for fun and joy, I’ll be holding down the fort in Allentown. Mike’s going to be editing all of the tape from the concert. But I get to watch from the best seat in the house, his lap.”

While everyone was talking, they turned to look at Teri, who was very quiet. Tiffany spoke up. “And what’s our Little Shit going to do with her three weeks of vacation?”

Dear Readers, This is an apology and an explanation. I started Wildcat Fall earlier this year and realized it wasn't the story I wanted to tell. So, I have started from scratch, and here is a completely new Chapter One. This is the continuing saga. I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am writing this story. Thanks.
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Chapter Three
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Teri hesitated and searched for what to say. She was physically and mentally exhausted, but exhilarated that everything had gone so well.

Making eye contact with her friends, she smiled. Taking a deep breath, she announced, “In a couple of weeks, I’m going to have surgery. Jenn and I have talked to a doctor who specializes in bottom surgery, and it’s all been planned for a while.” She slowed herself down and settled herself to find the words. “When you see me next, I will have straightened out all the confusion between my legs with a brand new vagina.”

Teri tried to sound confident. She’d never been more sure, and saying it aloud to her best friends reinforced her feelings. Feelings, that’s what this was about, she thought.

Everyone helped her through her journey. And now she was helping herself. She knew it was a selfish act. But it meant a lot.

Teri was making a big step and knew she’d hear skepticism.

For a few minutes, no one said a word. Teri watched, waiting to hear what everyone had to say. No one spoke, but they were all still staring. So she jumped right in. “No, seriously. It’s all good, totally elective. And I’ve been prepping for a while now. The way it’s planned, when all of you return from your vacations, I’ll be straightened out from top to bottom.”

Teri did not expect the avalanche of hugs, tears, and well-wishes. She’d been so caught up in the rehearsals and the music that she hadn’t had time to think about it. “Seriously, it’s just the last step in finishing up who I am. I haven’t said much cause I didn’t want to be a downer. I’m not complaining, but it’s been on my mind for a while. Like I said, it’s what I need for me. This will finally get my intersex body as real outside as I have become inside.”

Teri felt good and knew that she was proud of doing this. Of course, that was until Tiffany blurted out, “Does this mean you’re going to start having sex with guys?”

The rest of the Cats moaned.

Teri laughed and kissed her cheek. “No, Tiffany. That’s the furthest thought from my mind. I love Jenn, and she’s everything to me. The surgery is not about sex; it’s about being whole. Back in Chicago, we messed around with Jenn’s sister and her boyfriend. I’ve always loved women, and experimenting didn’t change my mind.”

Tiffany let out a breath and sighed. “But you’re only eighteen. Isn't surgery a big decision? You can never go back.”

Teri shook her head and tightly squeezed the tall blonde. “There’s nowhere to go. I never had boy parts. My genitals were just fibrous masses. Whatever sensation I had will still be there. But now, when I see myself, it would be easier to take a deep breath.”

Teri looked at all their faces and sighed. “I get a reminder every night before I go on stage when I glue a false vagina in place. It’s okay, but it reminds me that I’m incomplete. I just want to relax within my own body. I’ve talked to the surgeon and Grace. Amy and Jenn have gone to the appointments with me. So I’m pretty confident with my decision.”

Lisa turned her head. “Uh-huh. I get that it’s not a sex change, just a corrective surgery for an intersex woman. Is it going to be kept a secret?”

Teri laughed. “Well, I don’t know if anyone cares. Yeah, even before I was diagnosed as intersex, I was presenting as female. So, when I did the coming out interview for the newspaper, it wasn’t a big deal. When this surgery’s over and I’m out of danger, Jenn’s gonna text and let you know.”

Zoe looked her straight in the eyes. “Would you want me to cancel my plans and stick around for moral support?”

Everyone else immediately offered to do the same thing.

Teri held up her hands. “No! Seriously! I’ve got my cheering squad. Mom, Conor, and Jenn are all going to be right here for me. And, we’ve gotten the new condo in West Philly for Jenn while she’s going to school. And since the hospital’s only a mile away, it means I’ll be crashing there during my recovery.”

When no one said anything more, Teri spoke. “I appreciate your offers, but everyone needs time off. Jenn will keep everyone posted with what’s happening.”

Tiffany just couldn’t let it go. “You’re going to be all right?”

Gina looked at her carefully. “Tiff, did you just use an Irish accent?”

Tiffany turned to Gina and nodded her head. “Uh-huh. I’ve been practicing, so when I meet Thomas Hardy, he’s going to fall in love with me.”

All the Cats tried to keep straight faces.

Teri was happy the attention turned to Tiffany. “So you’ve given up on Brad Pitt?”

Tiffany blushed. “Well, no. But until we become world famous, I’m just not going to be in those same social circles. And I don’t want to make him uncomfortable having to hang around with you guys, especially Gina, ‘cause she’s such a moron.”

“Well, I want to hear more accent.” Gina was trying to keep a straight face.

Tiffany frowned. “That’s all I’ve got so far. I really haven’t had time to download any of his movies and practice while we’ve been on the road. That’s the good part about being with Mike for the next month. We’ll have time for lotsa movies.”

Teri looked at her strangely. “Have you told Mike about your crush on Thomas Hardy and your plans?”

Tiffany blushed. “Well, not yet. I’m still trying to keep the crazy under control. I’m afraid if I talk about what I’m thinking, he’d push me out the door.”

Teri shook her head. “Don’t you think that Mike has seen your crazy?”

“Sure, but I’ve been showering him with lotsa of love to keep him distracted.” Tiffany laughed and turned to Gina. “Okay, since I’m cleverly changing the subject, I was wondering. Every time you go to New York, all I hear is about you exercising all day and going out to dinner every night. What I can’t figure out is who does all the cleaning? Do you wear a maid's uniform to tidy up?”

Gina smiled and shook her head. “No, Tiff. Unlike you and your dress-up fantasies, my life is pretty normal. But I’ll bet that you have a sexy black French maid costume, right?”

Tiffany blushed. “Well, it’s black with white lace and trim. And I’ve got patent leather heels to match.”

They were all staring at their bass player.

Tiffany was waiting for Gina to give her an answer. “Do you clean the place? Are you her maid?”

Gina smiled and shook her head. “I do the laundry and make the bed. Grace has someone come in every day to clean her offices and her condo. I live a fine life in New York.”

Teri laughed. “I’ll bet. I’ve never heard you complain about living with the most beautiful woman in the world.”

Gina smiled. “Well, I used to feel uncomfortable about not contributing my share. But now that we’re finally making money, I don’t have to feel like I’m her pet. It gets weird that she works, and I just hang around waiting to entertain her. I had trouble with that idea when I started vacationing there. But she understands that the Cats' lifestyle is the complete opposite of hers. For the past three months, the band was working twenty-four seven on the road, caravanning from one venue to another, and our breaks were fleeting. No nine-to-five, no weekends off. But now I’m making more money than she does”

Teri laughed. “If you can call what we do work.”

Lisa shook her head. “Teri, you’re the hardest worker in the band. You sing, you play, you write, and you arrange. Isn’t that work?”

Teri laughed. “Nope. This is my dream. It’s all I’ve ever wanted. I used to worry about music school. Who’d accept me, and where would I find the seventy thousand a year for the tuition? Without any money, I’d have to panhandle and live in my car.”

Lisa was grinning. “I hate to break it to you, sis. But you don’t have a car.”

“See, that’s what I mean. It’s all become fun.”

Zoe smiled. “Well, I agree. Life’s changed for the band.” She turned to Lisa. “Remember wishing for roadies to help with loading the van.”

Tiffany laughed. “Our old van smelled.”

Everyone laughed.

Gina held up her hand. “Got a riddle for you. What do you call a musician who’s broken up with their girlfriend?”

She did not wait for an answer and simply called out, “Homeless!”

Teri looked confused. “I don’t get it.”

Tiffany shook her head. “That’s cause you’ve never lived out of the van traveling around playing for food and gas money. We beat ourselves up all winter long, dragging our asses from one dive bar to another. Our big break was when we’d head home to eat Mom’s cooking and sleep in a clean bed.”

Gina laughed. “That was our R&R. After playing at the Rendezvous for a month, we’d load back up again to play at all the beach and bar towns on the coast.”

Zoe laughed. “Life was different. What we made in one week with the old Cats is what we made on the first night with you in Atlanta. You were the magic, an angel sent down from Rock and Roll Heaven to bless us with success.”

Teri started crying. “It was unreal pretending to be Tasha. From then on, I never felt real. Back in school, I was the boy who couldn’t do anything the other guys did. I dreamed that puberty would come and make me real, like Pinocchio. But suddenly, it became too easy to be a girl.”

They watched the tears roll down her face.

“When I discovered that I wasn’t a boy or a girl, if it weren’t for all of you, Jenn, Grace, and my mom, I wouldn’t have known where to turn.” Teri shook her head. “Now I’m proud of who I am and just want to feel real. But I still worry about someone saying I’m a fake.”

Zoe wrapped her arms around Teri and rocked her. “C’mon, baby. You’re just exhausted. Nothing is left in the tank. But you’re more; you’re a super girl.”

After all the hugging and cheering, Teri dried her eyes and stopped her hiccups. She felt better. “Zoe’s right; I’m exhausted.”

Everyone walked out and greeted the Allentown contingent. They kissed and hugged while the compliments rained down on them. On the way back to the hotel, they all sang Beyoncé and Taylor Swift songs.

In the morning, after breakfast, the Cats all went their separate ways. Zoe and Bruno were flying straight to Hawaii, Smith and Lisa were headed to Texas, and Gina and Grace left early, heading back to New York. Mike and Tiffany stayed behind with the TV guys to wrap up all the tapes before heading back to Allentown.

Jenn and Teri packed up and rode to the airport with Richard and Phil. As they sat in the lounge together, Richard was smiling. “Well, all the news is great. The Fundraiser broke all sorts of records for a live broadcast on national TV.”

Jenn was smiling. She looked at Phil and Richard. “What are you two doing? Anything special?”

Phil laughed. “I just want to go back to the city and just put my feet up for a couple of days.”

Richard shook his head. “Right. Five minutes after you sit down, you’re going to be looking for something to do. But that’s all right. I’ve already got reservations for restaurants and Broadway shows when we return. But we are going to put our feet up and relax. I’m thinking we’d have siestas in Barcelona.”

Phil turned, “Spain! Wow!”

Richard smiled. “As long as we don’t have to visit any recording studios.”

Dear Readers, This is an apology and an explanation. I started Wildcat Fall earlier this year and realized it wasn't the story I wanted to tell. So, I have started from scratch, and here is a completely new Chapter One. This is the continuing saga. I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am rewriting this story. Thanks.
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Chapter Four
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Teri looked at her reflection in the foggy mirror. As she dried off, she had become used to seeing a tall, slender, softly contoured body with a bit of definition in her hips and butt. She dried her chest and used both hands to create some cleavage. A smile broke through her anxious thoughts. Today was it.

She’d planned, talked to her doctor, the surgeon, her counselor, her mom, and Jenn. Teri shook her head, thinking about how many times she had babbled on and on to her girlfriend. But all the talk was over, and the clock was ticking.

Feeling a sob coming out, she jammed the wet bath towel into her mouth. ‘Jesus,’ she thought. In a few hours, she’d be handing over control to strangers. They’d be knocking her out and carving her up. And hopefully, when they sewed her back together, all the mess between her legs would be gone.

She wrapped herself up and stepped into their new bedroom. Jenn was just finishing her makeup when she turned and looked up. “Are you all right?”

“Why”

“You look a little green around the edges. Pale.”

Teri nodded slowly. “Yeah. I feel a little lightheaded. Maybe it was the hot shower.”

“Well, you’ve been starving yourself.”

Teri had been prepping for her surgery for the past twenty-four hours, drinking clear liquids and horrible-tasting, slimy stuff that kept her near the bathroom. “Yeah. But I’m as clean inside as I am out.”

As they walked down the condo stairs and looked out through the small lobby, both were surprised to see that it was still nighttime in West Philadelphia.

“I've never been up this early before. Weird.”

They walked straight to the hospital, not stopping since she couldn’t eat or drink anything before her surgery. With only a few stores and shops opening, Teri groaned when she saw freshly baked pastries being loaded into display cases. Leaning into an open door, she took a deep breath, inhaling the scents of freshly ground and brewed coffee, blending with the yeasty, sugary smell of the still-hot sweets from the oven. She turned to Jenn, moaning, “C’mon, I’m starving. Let’s just skip the hospital and have a fresh croissant and an espresso.”

Jenn laughed and squeezed Teri’s arm. She pulled them down the quiet streets, with only the occasional car rushing by.

Teri thought about her girlfriend. “No, seriously. Do you want to get something?”

Jenn kissed her cheek. “You’re being considerate, but I will pick something up later.”

Watching the traffic lights change automatically as they walked along, Teri looked up at the apartment windows. She smiled, thinking that soon people would fill the streets and start their day. But for now, it was eerily quiet. “This would make a great set for an apocalyptic movie. Or maybe Mike could use these empty streets as the background for a Wildcats video.”

Jenn shook her head. Her girlfriend’s hyperactive brain was always buzzing. “Are you going to write a new song for this end-of-the-world video or just use it in your Vampire rock opera?”

Teri looked serious. “My opera is supposed to take place in the forest. But I was wondering.” She turned and looked at Jenn as they walked along, “Do you think my opera should have Zombies in it?”

Jenn couldn’t help but giggle. “That’s pretty deep, Rock Star. I dunno. I vote you keep it simple. Remember, you can’t assume too much. You’ll have a theater audience who’s unfamiliar with what’s going on. But I do have a question for you. If a Vampire bites you, could you become a Zombie?”

Teri shook her head. “I don’t think so. I know Vampires make Vampires by biting people to death and reviving them as the undead. And Zombies create Zombies from a bite. I’m guessing both contagions must come from a virus. Maybe it’s all about viruses.”

Jenn listened. “That would really challenge the science of virus study with a lot of fantasy. Maybe one virus mutated into two different strains to create Vampires and Zombies. Or what if humans were just another mutation?”

Teri stopped walking, stretched, and shook her head. “Viruses, crazy. Yeah, my adrenaline’s making me nuts.” She turned to look at Jenn. “Okay, honestly, I’m nervous about this whole anesthesia thing, frightened that I’ll never wake up.”

Jenn pulled Teri into her arms, holding her close. “Uh-huh. Sometimes I get frightened, too. But if you really feel that way, we can stop and go home.”

Teri shook her head. “No, I want to move forward. I’m just voicing my what-ifs.”

After passing through hospital security doors and checking in, they were directed to a large waiting room. Groups of people sat quietly, whispering, while a TV played in the background. It was after seven-thirty when they took Teri back into surgery. After Jenn waved goodbye, mouthing, ‘I love you,’ she heard the receptionist call out, “Hun. You can wait for your sister upstairs in the recovery floor lounge.”

Sisters! Hun? Jenn nearly burst out laughing. They’d make quite a strange family! Teri was tall and slender with her punked silver hair, tattoos, and piercings. And she looked like the typical Asian stereotype. Despite having a Russian father, her prominent features came from her Japanese mother. With her straight, black, shoulder-length hair and exotic appearance, they didn't look much alike as sisters.

As she climbed the stairs to the recovery area, Jenn remembered seeing Teri clean off her black nail polish yesterday while admiring her manicure. She watched her rock star girlfriend examine herself in the mirror. Then she saw Teri turn to face her. “I’m going to skip a visit to Isabella’s and wait to get a cut when I’m back in Allentown.”

Inside, Jenn cringed. She loved sharing their new apartment. It was going better than she’d hoped. But when Teri mentioned leaving, she felt her stomach tighten. “And how long will you be staying?”

Teri shrugged, pulling at her hair. “I don’t know. Didn’t the doctor say I’d need a couple of weeks to recover, right?” She turned and looked. “What do you think? Should I let it grow?”

Jenn pulled her girlfriend’s hair. “Yeah. A new length and a new look. We haven't really talked about where you’re going to live after your recovery.” Jenn shook her head. “Are you moving back to the band house in Allentown and leaving me by myself? Does that mean we’re separating?”

Teri suddenly looked panicked and pulled her into her arms. “No, no! I want to be with you forever, twenty-four seven. But you’re going to school, and I didn’t want to get in your way. Maybe I could commute with a rail pass to Allentown. And when you have time off from school, we can do stuff together.”

Even now, when Jenn thought about being separated from Teri, she felt an intense emotional surge of pain. She despised feeling helpless, and her mind raced with her own what-ifs. Her thoughts darted as she wondered what was happening behind the walls in surgery. She found it impossible to focus on anything to prepare for school. She’d been given a list of reading assignments, but it was hard not to worry.

At two o’clock, a nurse entered the empty lounge and approached her. “Hi, are you here for Teri Nelson?”

Jenn stood. “Uh-huh. I’m her girlfriend, Jenn.”

The nurse smiled. “I’m Julia with good news. They’re finishing up in the operating room, and everything went smoothly. We just got word that Teri’s on her way up to recovery. Once we get her settled, I’ll come back and you’ll have a chance to see her.”

As the nurse was walking away, she turned back and asked, “I was curious. Is she the same Teri Nelson who plays with the Wildcats?”

Jenn smiled and nodded. “The band’s taking a break after touring and performing at the Hollywood Bowl fundraiser.”

Julia nodded her head. “I thought that I recognized her name. That concert was so great! My daughter and I watched it on TV. So many different singers, and watching the Wildcats play for them. The best part was when Taylor and Beyoncé performed their hits together!”

Jenn laughed. “It was crazy! And they raised so much money. My girlfriend and the band created all the music arrangements, too.”

After the nurse left, Jenn sent a message to everyone sharing Teri’s good news.

Tiffany was relaxing in Mike’s lap when her phone buzzed. He was editing a beer commercial they’d filmed in Milton, Delaware. She kissed his neck, savoring the feel of his three-day-old beard stubble. Then she gently pushed herself away and slipped out of his lap. She read Jenn’s message and called her. "Hey, girl! Yes, yes, yes! I’ve been hoping to hear from you. That’s the best news!”

Jenn shed a few tears. "I know. I’ve been trying not to worry or get worked up. It was killing me not having control over what was happening. A nurse just came by to tell me that Teri is done and heading into recovery.”

“I get it. It’s impossible to stop your brain or turn it off. Maybe getting sober helped me get my act together, but I’m still a mess sometimes. Have you seen her yet?”

“No. The nurse said they’d get her settled in a room, then I’ll see her.”

“Okay, so in the meantime, how you doin’?”

“Tiff, it’s been a really long day, and I’m exhausted. But Teri’s okay, and that’s all that matters.”

“How about visiting hours? Can I come into Philly and see you tonight?”

Jenn shrugged. “The nurse told me that Teri would be out of it tonight from all the anesthesia, but they promised that she’d be wide awake in the morning.”

“Okay. I’ll drive down in the morning and hang out with you all day.”

“That’ll be great! Visiting hours start at ten. And it looks like she’ll be here until Friday. After that, we’ll be back in our new place. I’m going to be her nurse and attend classes too. You can stop by anytime. We’ve got two bedrooms.”

“Yeah, I’ve heard about your big purchase. It must be pretty exciting. But how’d you get the place all furnished so quickly?”

Jenn laughed. “We just walked through the IKEA store and bought everything at once. It was easy.”

“I can’t wait to see it. I’m jealous. Living above First Cut’s okay, but it’s still Mike’s old bachelor pad. I made him buy a new bed and sheets. Just the idea that he’s had other women up here with him over the years grosses me out. Hopefully, after he sees what you guys did, I can push him into changing things around.”

Jenn laughed. “Having the entire third floor of his big building would be pretty cool. You’ve got so much space up there. IKEA features a lot of industrial chic. He might go for the loft look.”

“Great idea. But he needs to clear out almost all that space. Mike’s saved every piece of equipment they’ve ever bought for First Cut. I suggested we have a big yard sale and clean it out!”

Jenn laughed. “But how are you two? Zoe went to Hawaii, Gina goes up to New York, and Lisa heads out to Nashville. But you never took time off for a break.”

“Yeah. Mike’s my worker bee, and somebody has to go out and bring me the honey. It’s okay. I enjoy sleeping late and going for a morning run. I’ve got this great route around the city reservoir, and I see lots of birds and critters in the woods. Plus, I’ve started yoga and meditating. I’ll be damned if I’m going to let Gina top me with all her Eastern mythical stuff. This is a staycation.”

After saying goodbye, Tiff went and searched for Mike. “Hey! Just heard from Jenn. Teri’s out of surgery and okay.”

Mike stood up from his computer console. He lovingly wrapped his arms around her. “That’s great to hear. When are we going to visit?”

Tiff grinned. “I’m going down in the morning. Why don’t you come in after work, and we can grab dinner together?”

Mike was nodding. “Great. In the meantime, we need to finish up this week’s video blog so we can upload it. We already edited short clips for Instagram and TikTok. You know this Wildcat vlog’s still blowing up with views and likes.”

“I never thought it would get this big.”

“Well, you suggested that we create a weekly video blog. And now it’s going crazy.”

Tiff nodded slowly. “Yeah. But give yourself credit. Everything your guys filmed is amazing. Whether it’s the Cats practicing or Teri rehearsing a new song, it's done well. It’s so crazy that everyone wants to see us hanging out at festivals, eating together with the roadies, or writing songs. You know, I wonder how long it’ll last?”

“Well, with AI driving everyone nuts with all the fake stuff, you guys are the real thing!”

Tiff smiled as she listened to Mike talk, realizing how important he was becoming. She kissed him. “I missed you when we were on the road.”

Mike kissed her. “Yeah, but I love playing house with you now.”

“Well, I was talking to Jenn about their new place. I was wondering, how would you feel if we redid the entire third floor of the building and made it our home?”

Mike wrapped his arms around her and lifted her up. “I love the idea, but won’t you get sick of me?”

Tiff was kissing him all over his face and neck. “I love playing house. If we had a private condo up there, we could lock the door, and I’d dress up just for you. I would love to be your nurse, your maid, your plumber, or your dominatrix. You know how good I look in leather. Just think of all the fun we could have!”

Mike shook his head and looked her in the eyes. “I have the craziest, most beautiful woman in my life. I will do whatever you want to keep you happy.”

“Hmm. Whatever, huh? All this talk has gotten me excited. Do you think you could take a break for a few minutes?”

“Minutes? How about if we close early, then head upstairs, and discuss building a house inside First Take? And we can decide where we want to put our new bedroom.”

Gina was feeling the breeze coming off the water as she looked across the river at the New Jersey skyline. She tried to vary her path each day while she ran. Her vacation with Grace was perfect. She enjoyed escaping on the Upper East Side to her girlfriend’s place.

When her phone buzzed, Gina stopped, then cheered aloud when she read Jenn’s message. Smiling broadly, she walked into the lobby of Grace’s building, replying to Jenn with fireworks, hearts, and smiling emojis.

She waved to the concierge as she hopped on the elevator and pressed sixteen. Grace’s commute was simple. Her offices were on the second floor and her apartment on the sixteenth.

Gina was glad to hear the good news. Lisa had been her best friend since elementary school, and Teri had always been the little kid who hung around. Now she loved that grown-up version.

Gina was enjoying her downtime. For the past five years, their playing schedule had been terrible. They’d played in small clubs five nights each week, fifty-two weeks a year, traveling in their old fifteen-passenger van pulling a trailer full of musical equipment. The Cats never took time off, just struggling to keep their heads above water.

But those days were gone. Teri’s influence had transformed the Wildcats into a genuine crowd-pleasing band. Now they played for ten thousand fans willing to pay top dollar to see them perform. The band was determined to make every show perfect.

As she was riding the elevator, Grace called. Checking her watch, she realized that she must have been between patients. “Hey, sweets! You get the news?”

Grace smiled, hearing her lover’s enthusiastic voice. “I did and wondered when we could go visit.”

“Well, I’m calling Jenn to set something up. Hopefully I’ll head down to Philly real soon, but we can go together when you have the time away.”

“I knew you’d go down ASAP.” She looked at her calendar. “It’s going to take me a few days. I’m thinking I can get down there Friday and then we can stay in Philly over the weekend.”

After saying goodbye, Gina picked up her phone and texted Jenn, saying that she’d been there on Tuesday morning.

Zoe leaned in to share her text with Bruno. He’d been busy rubbing too much cocoa butter on her skin. It did feel good, and she’d become hooked on the stuff.

After the big concert weekend at the Hollywood Bowl, Zoe and Bruno said their goodbyes and flew off to Oahu. They had a suite at the Four Seasons Resort and didn’t venture out for the first three days. Dining on love and room service, Zoe thought that the natural rock waterfall shower in their suite was her favorite thing. Bruno promised to install one in their bathroom when they got home.

Zoe was getting ready to bring a new life into this world. She and Bruno were planning to bring their baby on the European tour. Zoe wanted to be able to play four or five nights a week, and still be the perfect mother.

Bruno would tour with them. He’d put his business on hold to support their new family. It would take more planning, but Zoe wanted it all. For their summer tour, she insisted they bring a chef and trainer. And knowing her trainer was an EMT gave her peace of mind. Now she was working out all the logistics to give to Richard.

Zoe dialed her phone and waited for Jenn to answer. “Hey, sweetie. So glad to read your text.”

Jenn wiped a tear from her eye. “Yeah, good news.”

“Have you seen her yet?”

Jenn was shaking her head. “Not yet. The nurse promised to get me back in to see her before the end of the day.”

Zoe smiled. “Well, we’re wheels up tomorrow. We’ve got a direct flight into Philly and should be in the hospital on Wednesday for visiting hours. We’re excited to see you and Teri.”

Zoe had taken Teri under her wing to keep her spirits up. “She’ll be over the moon, but I’ll let you surprise her. How’re you and Boomer doing?”

“We’re great. Another six weeks and she’s going to join us live and in person!”

“So, it’s a girl!”

“Nah. Still going to be a surprise.”

Jenn laughed. “See ya soon!”

Smith picked up Lisa’s phone and glanced at the text. He raised it for her to see as she approached the picnic bench. She’d been trying to lasso a wooden post that had steer horns attached to the top. Each time she succeeded, she’d let out a loud whoop!

Smith smiled and called out. “Hey, beautiful. Jenn just sent you a message.”

Lisa came over, read the text, and hugged Smith with glee. “That’s good news. But I’ll bet my little sister’s exhausted.”

She stood there, gazing out over Smith's mountaintop. It was a stunning view, but now she was merely staring, not seeing anything at all. She turned to Smith with a tear in her eye. “Hey, cowboy. I’m thinking about all the hurdles Teri has jumped over in the past year. It’s so unfair she’s had to grow up so quickly.”

Smith understood. He’d heard the entire story and knew about Teri’s revelations and her surprise transition. He tried to imagine living life for eighteen years as a guy, only to discover that he was intersex with ovaries producing estrogen. And in the midst of this discovery, now Teri was starting puberty, which sealed the deal.

“How come no one ever noticed she was different?”

She shook her head and sighed. “Well, in hindsight, we always wondered why Teri never gained a lot of muscle or matured. But her doctor always explained that she was a late bloomer and puberty would even things out. Teri used to talk about having testosterone treatments and getting all muscle-bound. No one ever suspected what was really happening.”

“Do they have any idea when her puberty really started?”

Lisa shrugged. “Maybe her gender started to make itself visible earlier, but no one was looking for it. Because she was always so lean and tall, her body development was more subtle. And since she’s intersex, her bone structure development was more neutral, too. When she was wearing foam pads pretending to be Tasha, Gina’s sister noticed her development.”

Lisa didn’t mind talking about it. “But Teri’s still the same, quirky, gifted, extremely caring pain in the ass. All of this forced her to leave all that geeky, slacker behavior behind. Teri’s changed, and I want to protect her.”

Smith shook his head. “Yeah, she’s lucky.”

Lisa looked at him strangely. “How so?”

“She’s got all these folks around her who love and care for her. Everyone she’s met adores her.”

Lisa just looked at him.

Smith shook his head. “Like she’s avoided all the hateful people who’d tear her down just for existing. When Eaten By Raptors was on the road, there were lots of jealous, frightened, ignorant folks ready to throw shade at anything different. All punk bands got shit on.”

“And what happened?”

“We bonded. It really made us brothers, protecting each other and standing up for our music.”

“Uh-huh. It’s the same for us. We’ve made a bubble surrounding her. The Wildcats are more than a rock band; we are family.”

Smith hugged her. “Yeah, it’s pretty obvious that everyone loves her.”

“But you know Teri has been upfront about herself and all the changes she’s experienced. Having to tell the world about her intersex diagnosis was a big step.”

“And what happened?”

“A great reporter from the Philly paper wrote the most amazing article about Teri and what she was going through. We waited to see what effect it would have, but no shit ever hit the fan.”

“No blowback?”

“Well, you see, no one ever noticed. Teri had written this comical heavy metal song about people who dressed up as furry animals. And we spoofed it by dressing up in costumes on the stage. Someone posted it online, and it went viral.”

“Yeah. Your fans love Fur Face. It’s kinda stupid-cool. EBR could never have done anything like that. Not trying to be sexist, but we never could have done cuteness or even laugh at ourselves.”

“Uh-huh. You guys are stuck in macho land. Yeah, I think we saw Fur Face as a throwaway, and now it’s expected whenever we perform. We carried three identical furry costumes on the bus. It’s really a good thing we still laugh about it.”

“You guys are having fun, loving what you do. Like when you adopted the Flower Sisters and brought brass into the band. Out of nowhere, Tiffany’s performing the B-52’s and Aretha Franklin songs. Seriously, the Wildcats performing hard rock and Bach in the same set is pretty risky, but your fans eat it up.” Smith was grinning. “You know, Eaten By Raptors had never met Teri, and the first time she walked into our rehearsal, she was offering production suggestions. She started updating all our ten-year-old hits and breathing new life into them. An eighteen-year-old completely blew the guys away!”

“Yep. She still does that with us. Like the way Tiffany performs Love Shack! There’s no ego involved. And she totally blows people away when she plays her cello. Which, of course, was another Teri idea.”

“Uh-huh. She is a key player for the Wildcats.”

“Don’t we know. When Teri was kidnapped, we were committed to playing one night at the Rendezvous without her. And let me tell you how those hard-boiled rockers were all crying thinking about Teri and the hole she left in the band.”

“Yeah, and that’s how you met Jessica Jade. Right?”

“She’s our superhero. But did you know she’s trans?”

Smith shook his head.

Lisa paused. “I know. And all of this raised my awareness of the whole LGBTQ community. I never thought of Teri as being anything special, and then finding out she’s intersex and totally left out, hanging in the wind at eighteen. And I never thought of Gina as being odd or different. We grew up together, and her gayness never seemed to be an issue. But now, I’m especially aware of how much hate they receive for no reason at all.”

Smith nodded.

“Treating people like criminals when they’re just trying to exist. Every time we perform a show, a portion of the profits gets donated locally to organizations that support teens, particularly those facing issues related to gender and sexuality. People come up to talk to us, and it’s really become a much larger community for everyone.”

Smith leaned over and kissed her, then pulled her into his lap. “I’m proud to be with you. I look up to you and everything you do. I’m so lucky to love you.”

Lisa grinned. “I worry I’m smothering you.”

“Nah. Everything’s perfect. But all this talk makes me hungry.”

Lisa smiled. “What do you want to eat?”

Smith grabbed her hand and started pulling them down to the ground. “Uh, you.”

As Smith started to undress her, she held him out at arm’s length. “Uh-huh, cowboy. But the big question is, how soon can we be in Philly?”

Dear Readers, This is an apology and an explanation. I started Wildcat Fall earlier this year and realized it wasn't the story I wanted to tell. So, I have started from scratch, and here is a completely new chapter integrated with the kernel of the original one. This is the continuing saga. I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am rewriting this story. Thanks.
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Chapter Five
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“Jenn, I’m Robyn, Teri’s other nurse. We’re about to wake her up. Grab your things and follow me.”

Jenn threw everything into her backpack and followed the nurse through the security door and down the hallway. Entering a private room, Jenn saw Teri and gasped. She felt her face go pale as the blood drained away. Her knees buckled.

Teri’s head was wrapped in a towel, and her eyes were closed. She was snuggled tightly in blankets. All Jenn could see was pale skin and colorless lips. Teri looked tiny in the large hospital bed surrounded by tubes and machines. The monitors beeping, the blood pressure cuff inflating, and the sounds of the machines all resembled a Hollywood horror film.

The scene was overwhelming; tears rolled down her face. She looked at her girlfriend lying there and felt helpless.

Robyn came over and took her hand. “It’s okay. Remember, she’s just coming out of surgery. She’s fine. All her vitals are steady. Our job is to warm her up, wake her up, then sit her up.” The nurse pointed at the machine blowing warm air under her covers. “During surgery, they lowered her body temperature slightly to slow blood flow. It’s okay. That machine is helping with warm air.”

Jenn’s voice was a whisper. “Is she all right? She’s so pale.”

Robyn smiled. “After six hours of surgery, it takes her body time to recover.”

Jenn watched as Robyn started adjusting the controls on the keypad of the machines, sending more fluids into Teri’s body through a port on her hand. “I’m giving her a wake-up call, and we’re flushing any sedatives lingering from the operating room.”

When Teri’s eyelids fluttered, the nurse leaned in and whispered, “Welcome back, Teri Nelson. I’m Robyn, your nurse in recovery. You’ve just come out of surgery. The operation’s over and everything went well.”

She kept talking as she removed the air machine and pushed it to the corner. “Your throat and tongue ache where they inserted a breathing tube during surgery.”

As Teri regained consciousness, she realized she couldn’t feel anything below her waist. Hearing a machine between her legs, she lifted her blanket to look.

Robyn watched her carefully. “That’s the sound of an icing machine for your surgical area. It’s important to keep the swelling under control. Right now, you’re still numb from your surgery and packed with gauze to preserve the shape of your new vagina.”

Teri was having trouble concentrating. Her eyes kept shutting, then she felt a squeeze.

Robyn whispered, “Teri, you’re still getting a strong dose of painkillers. Just remember that everything went fine. Now, rest your eyes, and I’ll get you ice chips for your throat.”

Teri watched the blurry figure leave the room. She took deep breaths and entertained herself by listening to the rhythm of the beeps. She wondered what song was in her head until she fell back asleep.

Jenn watched. Her initial fright had passed, but her heart continued racing. She kept reminding herself that everything went fine.

When Teri woke up, she sensed Jenn sitting on the edge of the bed. Her mind gradually cleared, and she was able to focus.

Robyn was holding two large Styrofoam cups. “Here you go. Jenn’s going to feed you ice very slowly. Choking is a real no-no.”

Teri heard a motor vibrating as her head and trunk were lifted into a sitting position. She watched Jenn dip a long-handled plastic spoon into the cup and scoop out ice shards. Teri felt the first shards on her tongue as they slid down her bruised throat.

As Jenn fed her ice, she leaned close to kiss her. “I love you, Rock Star.”

Teri kissed back but laughed because the occasional chip would slip out of her chapped lips, and the cold ice would roll down her chin. Jenn would gently touch her with a tissue and dry her off.

“Thank you,” she croaked. “I’m all loopy.”

Robyn smiled. “Are you ready to try a soda?”

Teri smiled and said, “Please.”

Robyn handed Jenn a can of Coke and another cup of ice. There was a bendable straw attached to the cup. “Remember, Teri. You have a catheter inside. Try to relax and just let it go. Don’t squeeze your muscles or hold back. We want to make sure everything works.”

After drinking the soda, Teri felt the bed lowering. She saw Robin adjust the IV drips on a touchpad near the bags. “It’s time to rest. Kiss Jenn and close your eyes.”

Teri took a deep breath, and all her anxiety faded as she sighed. She thought everything felt alright.

Gina called Richard. He answered cheerfully, “Hey, Gina! How’s your vacation going?”

“It’s great relaxing up here in Manhattan with the rich crowd, but I need to get down to Philly.”

“Right, the hospital. Phil and I heard the good news about our wonder girl. Would you like me to arrange transportation?”

Gina smiled. “I was hoping you could do that.”

“Of course, I will. I’m assuming you want to leave in the morning.”

“I do.”

“How about ten o’clock? You’ll avoid all the rush hour traffic. I’ll have the driver call you when he’s out front.”

“Thank you, Richard.”

“Well, tell everyone that Phil and I are sending our best wishes. Oh, that’s right. We found the perfect gift for Teri.”

“A gift! What’d you get her?”

“Three mint condition vinyl albums - Jimi Hendrix’s Band of Gypsys; The Allman Brothers Live At Filmore East; and Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble Live at Austin City Limits.”

“Oh, wow. She’s going to flip out.”

“We hope so. Your driver will have the package, and you can be our delivery person.”

“Okay, Richard, and thanks for arranging the ride.”

“It’s my job and we do have a transportation contract. Tell everyone we love them.”

“Sure. What have you and Phil been doing?”

“Just enjoying a bit of quiet time. Phil’s heading back to the studio to warm things up for the band in a couple of weeks, and I’m coordinating plans for the European tour. If the tour sales look good, we’re hoping to add Asia and Australia. Bill Wiggins, Gimli, and Conor are excited about the momentum the band’s created.”

“That’s amazing news. How long a tour are you thinking?”

“Well, we’d have to break it into pieces, but if you want, it could wrap the world and go for close to a year. Six months in Europe, and wrap three months in Asia and Australia. You’d fly home for a big break a few times, but the equipment would stay out waiting.”

Gina started laughing. “You’re serious? You think we can sell that many tickets?”

“Bill Wiggins says the international sales are increasing. I know it’s crazy, but the Wildcats are gaining traction worldwide. After the big fundraiser, downloads, airtime on subscription radio, and Tiffany’s little pet project of weekly Wildcats videos on YouTube are all still growing. Your double album keeps selling. Billboard has you climbing with a bullet.”

“I wonder if Zoe wants to raise her baby on the road?”

“I talked to her.”

“Okay.”

“She says she could do everything as long as everyone stays healthy.”

“Everyone?”

“Yep. Bruno is in on this project, too.”

“Oh, wow.” Gina tried to picture Bruno closing his graphic design and illustration business and just being the babysitter. “He’d give his business up?”

“No. He said he’d work remotely. And of course we’d have nannies for the little one.”

Gina was shaking her head. “During a tour schedule like we did this summer? Working four nights a week, five to ten thousand people? I’m having trouble picturing it.”

Richard was laughing. “Bill Wiggins has the contacts and has done it many times before. Gimli has the venue experience. And I’d still manage the band. But I think the talk is that you’d be playing for ten thousand each night.”

“Okay. I’m not having much success wrapping my mind around it.” Gina was glad she was sitting down.

“The schedule would be just like the summer tour. You work for three weeks and get a solid week off. After three months, you’d fly home for a few weeks. Then you’d do it all over again.”

“And Zoe’s okay with that?”

“Zoe said it would be okay, because she’d be taking her family with her. She wondered about the rest of you.”

Gina was trying to imagine being alone on tour for three months at a time and realized that Grace could fly over to Europe during the band’s week off, too. Then she understood she could fly home for three or four days if she wanted. “Richard, it sounds okay on paper, but that’s a lot of tickets to sell. And I guess that’s what we want. Seriously, I’m itching to play. But it’s still hard to believe that the Cats are that popular worldwide.”

“Right. Well, you are. While we’re not ready to sell out stadiums, but when Wiggins says you can, we have to listen. And here’s a good one. A toy company has approached us. They want to make Wildcats figures and a scale-sized tour bus. Unfolding the box creates a stage. And there’s even talk about a Wildcats Anime cartoon.”

“That’s crazy!”
“Yep. It’s all good news. The fundraiser is still getting donations and is on track to break records. Both Taylor Swift and Beyoncé want you to help write and produce a special Christmas charity album for them. Lorne Michaels wants them to do the Christmas SNL. He believes the band can write songs, perform, and sing on the show as well. Let’s face it, you guys are golden!”

“Oh, wow. That’s nuts! But, a Christmas album. Nobody’s gonna create new songs in three months!”

Richard laughed. “Crazy, right? And they want to release the album at the beginning of December. But both women have unpublished songs that can be reworked into a seasonal album. And they want Teri to arrange their songs so that they can perform them together.”

“Richard, after the mind-blowing reception they got on the stage together, it would take the world by storm. That would be too much!”

“See, that’s what we’re saying. If the Cats were to announce a world tour, it would create a lot of interest. Oh, and before I forget, you need to talk to your dad about Wildcat business. He’s got something to share, and I won’t spoil the surprise.”

Gina nodded. “A surprise, huh? Okay, I’ll call him at work tomorrow when I’m in the limo. If I called him at home tonight, Mom will get on to talk, and he’ll sneak off for a glass of red and a cigar.”

“Well, once I hang up, I’ll arrange your transportation. Have a good time in Philly!”

Gina was thinking about the luxury of arranging door-to-door limo service to Philly and frowned at the cost. But then she thought about taxi fares to and from the train, the price of the Acela train service, and all the time it would consume. She realised that after making a million dollars from the summer tour, she needed to start thinking differently.

After hearing about Phil and Richard’s gift for Teri, Gina considered getting something for Grace. She’d been sitting on the couch in Grace’s small study while talking to Richard. She smiled and relaxed by looking out the picture window, which offered the best view of Central Park.

Staring out at the beautiful sight inspired her to take action. She called Grace’s favorite gallery owner. “Hey, this is Gina DeNardo, Grace Goldman’s girlfriend.”

“Sure, Gina. We’ve met before. I’m Ella Lancaster, the gallery owner. How can I help you?”

“I’m thinking of having something painted for Grace as a surprise. Can you get in touch with Rene Talbot? I want her to paint a landscape for me.”

“Sure, Gina. I’ll contact Rene. Do you want to send me photos that she can use for inspiration?”

“I can and I will.”

“Okay. We can set that up. Do you need some figures?”

“Sure. But let’s move it forward. I was hoping for a watercolor that I could give her sooner rather than later.” Knowing that Grace filled her office with her favorite photos and paintings, Gina figured she would have a painting made of the view from the sixteenth floor to hang in her second-floor office. Gina took a deep breath and relaxed.

Grace had refused every offer Gina had made to buy her jewelry, take her on trips, or even have a shopping spree in Paris. Knowing that Grace already had everything she wanted, she was disappointed when her lover told her that she only wanted Gina and nothing more. But now, she would have a surprise gift painted for her. Everything would be great. But the tour sounded crazy.

When Robyn and Julia came to get Teri ready for bed, they told Jenn to spend a few more minutes holding her hand and whispering to her. Robyn reminded her that they would both be here monitoring her all night, and Teri would sleep soundly.

Jenn leaned over and whispered, “Baby, I’m heading back to our place for the night, but I’ll be here tomorrow morning.” She kissed her sleeping girlfriend and took an Uber back to their apartment. As she fell asleep, Jenn knew she would be at the hospital when they opened for visitors at ten.

Tuesday morning, Gina saw a large two-toned SUV sitting outside on Fifth Avenue. She was pleased to see a cute young woman holding the door open for her.

The woman smiled and looked her in the eyes. “Gina DeNardo?”

Gina glanced at the pretty thing in her dark green long-sleeved tee and black Capris. She almost burst out laughing because she was wearing the same comfy clothes. “That’s me.”

Shaking her hand, she took Gina’s case. “I’m Tanisha Morgan, and I'm ready to drive you down to Philly. Before we start, I’ve got snacks and water for you. We have an electric cooler and can stop to get whatever you want.”

Gina had grabbed a bagel after her morning run and now wanted something sweet. “Uh, any ice cream?”

Tanisha grinned. “We’ve already packed frozen Snickers, Milky Ways, and Heath Bars. Just watch biting down too hard. I’m not a dentist.”

Gina laughed out loud. “That sounds great, Tanisha. What do you do when you’re not driving this big machine?”

“I’m in school, studying law at Kline.”

Gina smiled. She knew that Kline was a big deal. If she attended Drexel, Tanisha must have been at the top of her college class. “Does that mean you drove up from Philly this morning?”

“Yes. Our service prefers to come and get you rather than outsourcing our business to a New York firm. Quality goes a long way in our trade.”

Gina smiled. “You sound like you own the company.”

“Well, my mom and grandfather run the business. This is my side job. We enjoy shuttling the Wildcats around Allentown and Philly. And you’re my favorite drummer.”

Gina blushed at her comment. Her gaydar was going off pretty strongly as she climbed into the large vehicle. Looking around inside, everything was beautifully upholstered and presented an office with two recliners. Gina turned to look at her driver. “This is pretty nice back here. What is it?”

Tanisha grinned. “It’s a Maybach. Mercedes makes them. This one’s their top model, and it’s all electric. We have plenty of battery charge to take you back to Philly.”

“Tanisha, I’ve never paid much attention to our transportation, but it’s pretty cool to ride in an electric limo with a beautiful driver. But I’ll let you concentrate on driving us out of this traffic. I have to call my dad.”

Tanisha glanced back at her before starting out. “Please put in a good word for me. I’m looking for an internship, and your dad’s law firm is the best in Allentown.”

“Sure, I’d be happy to talk to my pop.” She grinned and wagged her finger. “But then you’ll owe me.”

Gina watched the young woman look into the rear-view mirror. Tanisha grinned. “Owe you, huh? Uh, you know you’ve got a reputation.”

Gina laughed. “Me, a reputation? Wait, do you keep a file on everyone you drive?”

“Nope. Just the beautiful ones.”

Gina inhaled and shook her head. She thought to herself, ‘I love my life, I love my life.’ Picking up her phone, she dialed her father’s office.

“Dinardo, Hopkins, and Ryan. How can I help you?”

“Hi, Judy. It’s Gina. Could you have my dad call me when he’s not busy?”

“Gina, he just got off the phone. Let me connect you.”

A minute later, she heard his warm voice. “Hey, Gina. How’s my girl?”

“Life is good, Pops. I’m heading down to the hospital to see Teri. What’s up? Richard told me to give you a call.”

“Good. Richard asked me to share the news that William Wiggins has just wired us a check. It’s your royalties from all the streaming services. Apparently, they send them out quarterly.”

“Wow! How’s that work?”

“They pay the record company every time your songs are played, and everybody’s been requesting your songs. All those pennies add up. After Warner’s takes their cut, and Richard gets his share, you guys are splitting a hundred thousand dollars. That’s twenty grand per Cat.”

Gina thought about the painting. This money should cover it. “Well, that’s unexpected. I was going to call you to withdraw money from my account. I’m having Grace’s favorite artist make a painting of the view from her apartment. But, this money should cover it.”

She heard her dad chuckle. “That’s a sweet present for Grace. I’m sure she’s going to love it. My little girl is such a softy.”

“Love does that to you.” Gina looked up and realized that her driver could hear every word.

“Well, baby. I’m going to get back to work. Not all of us get a month’s vacation from their summer tour.”

“That’s true, but in our defense, we hit it hard. Twenty-four-seven for three months is a grind. It sounds like a piece of cake. But you know what it really takes to keep the party going.”

“Richard told me that you’ll be touring internationally in the Spring. If you’re playing Italy, your mom and I will fly over to see the band.”

“Of course, we’ll book Rome just for you guys. But between now and then, we’ll be rehearsing, and maybe have new material to play and record. Who knows? Oh, yeah. One more thing, do you ever have law school interns?”

“Sure. We always have three or four. You have someone to recommend?”

“I might.”

“Just have them send me a resume and text me her name so I can look her up.”

“Okay. Sounds great. But how did you know that it was a she?”

She heard her dad laugh. “I love you, sweetheart.”

“Love you too, Dad.”

After she hung up, she closed her eyes and thought about how lucky she was to have a family that embraced her. When she opened her eyes, they were going over the Ben Franklin Bridge into Philly. Gina looked up at Tanisha and smiled. “Hey.”

“Hey, back. I’ve been having fantasies about the favor I’m going to owe you.”

Gina grinned. “You do know I have a true love.”

Tanisha hummed. “Oh, I know. And that’s what’s going to make it so special.”

Gina just sat there and smiled.

“Uh, Ms. Dinardo?”

“Tanisha, Gina is just fine.”

“Thank you for talking to your father, and well, can I ask a personal question?”

Gina nodded. “Of course.”

“Uh, what was it like when you came out?”

Gina grew quiet before she spoke.“I was lucky to have the best older sister in the world. She gave me the confidence to be myself.”

She paused. “I struggled with my sexual identity when I was young. I concealed my desires and thoughts, but one day, my older sister found me lying on the bed, sobbing into the pillow. I admitted how lonely I’d become, afraid to express my feelings of love for another girl that I really liked.” Gina wiped her eyes, remembering that it was her best friend, Lisa.

“My sister gave me the words of wisdom that I still live by. She said, Baby, you’re not a freak. Stop worrying about your thoughts and embrace them. Loving another woman is the most natural thing you can do. Seriously, who is more beautiful, smells better, and is more delightful in bed than another girl? A woman knows how to push your buttons both sexually and in your mind. Loving women is natural. Take it from me, my whole life revolves around women and beauty. One day, I’m going to open a salon and cater to women who love to be pampered. It’s going to be called Isabella’s, and it will be famous throughout the whole Allentown area!”

“Thank you, Gina. My family has been very understanding, but I still have trouble approaching women. Unless I am in a bar or club, it’s hard to decide who is a lesbian or not.”

Gina smiled as she hugged Tanisha. “You’re not alone. Gay women rarely are forward unless they’re in a comfortable environment. But it’s going to happen. I’m telling you to have faith.” Gina shoved two fifty-dollar bills in her hand and gave her a loving kiss on her mouth.

After showing their tickets, Lisa and Smith walked down the ramp into the waiting plane. Lisa chuckled and whispered, “That flight attendant can’t take her eyes off you.”

Smith turned and looked at Lisa. “What?”

She shoved his shoulder. “Yeah, you handsome star, you. I’ll bet that she’s old enough to remember EBR and has seen you in a movie or two.” Lisa knew he radiated that charisma, but Smith never seemed to notice the fuss. After that, the flight attendant stood in the aisle, so the rest of the passengers heading into the plane wouldn’t notice them.

Lisa whispered to Smith. “I don’t know much about this fame and fortune stuff. After seeing people staring all googly-eyed at you, well, as much as I enjoy the Wildcats' success, I want to be myself. I don’t need that public recognition.”

Smith kissed her gently. “Babe, if they’re looking towards me, it’s cause they’re wondering who the beautiful woman is.”

She nuzzled his face. “I seriously doubt it. Maybe I need to ask Grace Goldman’s advice on how to avoid passive-aggressive jealousy, so I won’t go beating on someone who wants your selfie.”

“You’re jealous of me? Forget that! Lisa, I’m happy just carrying your luggage. Look at all the other three guys I was with in EBR. None of them wants the fame or attention anymore. They all lived the rock and roll life, then moved on. I know they miss the music, but none of them wants to repeat those years of touring. Music, movies, I like all of it. But would give it all up in a heartbeat for you.”

Lisa smiled and wrapped her hands around his head as she kissed him. “Thank you, my dedicated slave. Now, which do you like better, movies or music?”

Smith thought for a second. “They’re both so different. I love losing myself in the music, just belting it out on stage. In a way, it becomes a dream. And having all those people watching and applauding is pretty heady. But movies are just so different. I have to stay on my toes with acting. Lines, cues, all the positions. Making movies is not relaxing. I mean, I watch all the real talent and they all seem so natural. It’s just all second nature to them to bury themselves in their roles, their lines, and their places in front of the lights and cameras. I look at them and wonder if it will ever be that way for me.”

Lisa smiled and nodded.

Smith leaned in. “Okay, so your turn. You were on the Chances movie set for a week. Wanna do another movie?”

Lisa shook her head. “No thanks. My four-day taste of movie-making cured me. Having to play the same forty minutes over and over reminded me of when we were in the studio recording. You have to lose the fun and almost become a robot. Not enough spontaneity. I like the challenge, but one and done for me.”

They snuggled for a while until Lisa closed her eyes and fell asleep. When she woke, Smith was buried in his iPad, working on lyrics.

Lisa read the words. “Hmm. Storm clouds, lightning, heavy rain. Sure sounds like a recycled Eaten By Raptors song to me.”

He turned slowly, smiling. “Uh-huh. But now this one might have the rain stopping and the sun coming out. You never know, maybe I’ll throw some love into the mix.”

Lisa squeezed his thigh and, slowly, using her fingers, inched up his leg. She whispered in her sexiest voice, “The sun’s coming out, huh? Like in the itsy-bitsy spider?” She whispered as she sang the children’s song. “When the sun came out and dried up all the rain, the itsy-bitsy spider went up the spout again.”

Smith inhaled as her fingers moved up his leg like a spider. He felt her hand caress him lovingly. He shook his head. “Why did I have to fall in love with such a sexy, wise-ass? But how come your mom’s not crazy like you?”

Lisa made a fist and smacked him hard on the bicep. Then she grinned and went back to stimulating him. “I’m crazy, huh? I think that’s the part of me you like the most. I’m not one of the women who throw themselves at your feet begging for your love. I’m still myself.”

She nuzzled his neck and whispered, “Speaking of crazy, that reminds me. When things settle down, I’m gonna hire a private detective to track down my sperm donor, you know, my biological parent. I really want to know about him.”

Smith nodded, “Wouldn’t it be ironic if he’s a musician, a mixed martial arts champion, or maybe just a wise ass?”

Lisa’s hand grabbed down hard on his crotch and grinned devilishly. “Wise ass, huh? Maybe you don’t need this boy functioning at full strength for a while.”

Smith used both his hands to keep Lisa from doing real damage. He knew how strong she was.

As Jenn walked in, Teri held up her spoon. “Hey, look! Real food!” Teri was wide awake and sitting up. There was a little bedside table pushed in front of her, and she was eating from a plastic container.

“What is it?”

Teri smiled broadly. “I never thought applesauce could taste so good! So far, I’ve had oatmeal and hot chocolate. I’m growing to love baby food!”

Jenn grinned and leaned over to kiss her. “You look a lot better this morning than you did yesterday.”

“Do I? I don’t remember a thing about yesterday.”

“That’s okay. You were pretty doped up. How about this morning?”

“I’m good. I don’t think they’re giving me much in the way of pain killers, but I’m still numb down there.” Teri finally took a deep breath, sitting in bed, feeling the ice machine between her legs. As she looked across at Jenn, there was a knock on the door. Another smiling person in scrubs was washing his hands with an antibacterial scrub in the doorway.

“Hi, Teri Nelson. I’m Dr. Hank. I’m a pulmonologist and here to check your lungs and breathing. It’s a standard practice after surgery. Your nurse told me that you sing and play guitar for a living.”

Teri nodded and hoarsely croaked, “I’m in the Wildcats, a band from Allentown.”

The doctor smiled. “I know who you are. I watched you perform on Labor Day.”
 
Jenn looked at him. “Do I need to leave?”
 
“Nope.” He beamed. “I’ll only be a few minutes.” Hank glanced at the two women and smiled.
 
Jenn watched as Teri blew into a tube, and the doctor recorded the information. He used a stethoscope to listen to her lungs and nodded. “You’re in great shape. You’ll be going home in no time! My assistant will return this evening and show you some exercises. I want to build up your lung power. Knowing that you sing and play for a living, we’ll send you home in perfect shape.”
 
As he was busy working, no one noticed Tiffany walk through the door. She immediately came over and gave Teri a warm kiss. “Surprise, Little. Oh, this is wonderful! You’re stuck in bed, and I can keep on kissing you. You can’t run away from me!”

Tiffany turned to Jenn. “You don’t mind if I ravage your girlfriend for a while. I miss my Little Shit so much.” She laughed and turned to Robyn and the doctor. “Excuse me. Is it all right if I climb up into bed with my girlfriend? Is it too soon to have hot monkey sex?”
 
Robyn looked frantic, not realizing Tiffany was putting on. “Oh, please don’t. She’s still hooked up to too many tubes, and we don’t want anything to go wrong.”
 
Jenn covered her mouth and giggled. She was enjoying Tiffany’s outlandish, impulsive behavior. She knew that the woman could make anyone laugh.
 
The man’s jaw dropped. The beautiful, tall, leggy blonde who was carrying on and the exotic-looking brunette were both gorgeous. He didn’t know where to look. His patient with her silver punk haircut and perfect skin was attractive, too. As the doctor slowly exited the room, he made a note to return to check on this patient more frequently.
 
Jenn’s phone buzzed. She asked Robyn if Teri’s mom could join them.
 
“No problem, Jenn. I’ll go get them. The whole floor is quiet, so we can even steal chairs from the other rooms.
 
Before long, Teri and Amy were hugging while Tiffany sat on the windowsill and talked to Conor. Amy was interested in what the nurses and doctors had said.
 
Robyn nodded. “Teri’s surgeon was in last night at around eleven. She mentioned that the surgery was a lot simpler because they had to do less cutting and suturing. She said that Teri’s body was pretty easy to work on and that it would speed up the healing process. She’s coming around this morning to pull out the catheter and check on her dressings. You can all hear what she has to say then.”

The gang sat around and talked. It was a pretty easy time knowing that Teri was doing well. Everyone was smiling and laughing.
 
An hour later, Robyn interrupted. “I need to kick everyone out. The doctor’s on her way. We’re going to disconnect all of Teri’s tubes and remove her drain and catheter. And after the doctor finishes her dressings, I’ll bring you back in so you can talk to her. Then we get Teri up and walking.”
 
Conor smiled. “That’s fine. We’ll all take a lunch break. We packed coolers. C’mon, gang, let’s go eat.”
 
Teri sat up and waved her hands. “Hey! What about me? Who’s going to feed me?”
 
Robyn laughed. “Your cafeteria tray is on its way, honey. Sorry, it’s not catered, just hospital food. It’s a pretty strict diet for the next three days while you’re under our care.”
 
Teri could be heard moaning and pretending to complain as everyone filed out.
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Dear Readers, This is an apology and an explanation. I started Wildcat Fall earlier this year and realized it wasn't the story I wanted to tell. I have started from scratch, and here is a newly written chapter that integrates with the core of the original one. This is the continuing saga. I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am rewriting this story. Thanks.
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Chapter Six
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As everyone munched on hoagies and Herr’s barbecue potato chips, a new voice could be heard. “Hey, gang! Did you save anything for me?” 
 
Everyone stood up, exchanging hugs and kisses with Gina. As they got her a soda and a sub, she filled them in on her time away. “We go out nights to listen to music in Soho and the Village. It makes me itchy, and I miss drumming.”

A nurse stuck her head in the lounge, inviting everyone back into Teri’s room. As they were settling in, Gina greeted Teri and caught everyone up. “We’re each twenty thousand dollars richer. Online services pay royalties every time our music is played. My money is set aside for a Grace gift.”
 
Teri whispered, “What are you buying the most beautiful woman in the world?”

“One of her favorite artists is creating a painting of the view from Grace’s apartment to hang in her office.”

Teri was nodding. “Oh, yeah! That’s great. I’ve spent a lot of my sessions admiring her walls of paintings and photographs.”
 
Tiffany was nodding her head. “Back to the online services, I’m curious to see which songs were the most popular and get demographic info, too.”
 
Gina looked at her. “What’s that going to tell us?”
 
Tiff smiled. “A lot. It’ll help us plan what kind of songs to include on the next record. Like, more live cuts or the studio side? And what age groups liked which songs?”
 
Gina laughed. “You know, Tiff, that makes sense. You’ve gotten a lot smarter. Maybe living with Mike has boosted your thinking skills.”

Tiffany grinned. “I do love the guy. But I think quitting drinking has made me smarter.”

Gina held up a wrapped package and approached Teri. “This is from Richard and Phil.”

They all watched Teri unwrap her gift. “Oh, wow! Look!” She held up the three albums by their jackets. “They found mint-condition vinyl recordings of my rock gods playing live! Cool, huh?”
 
Jenn was shaking her head. “Uh-oh. You’re not going to be able to rest until you’re at the band house playing those at full volume.”

Gina smiled. “Well, we can set up a turntable, amp, and a pair of headphones for you to enjoy while hanging out here.”

Teri was bouncing up and down on her bed. “Could you do that?” she pivoted toward Jenn. “How great would that be?”

Gina laughed. “I’ll call Sid Mack at Allentown Music to put something together. We’ll see if Tiffany can bring it to you tomorrow.”

Jenn turned to the nurses and playfully wagged her finger. “Keep an eye on her. Once she loses herself in the music, she’s going to be climbing out of bed and dancing around. Since hanging with Questlove from The Tonight Show, she’s been looking everywhere for vinyl. I stopped asking her how much she spends.”
 
Gina smiled. “Shopping for vinyl? I thought she was getting all her stuff from Questlove.”
 
Jenn shook her head. “Not anymore. Questlove has been looking for albums. Even DJ Blank has been helping her find vinyl.”
 
Tiffany smiled. “Blank! How’s he doing? Is he still hosting the dance parties at the Rendezvous?”
 
Jenn was nodding. “Yep, Mondays and Tuesdays. But he’s branching out. He’s pretty popular in the recording studio in Philly and now works at big dance clubs. He’s up and down the East Coast, working everywhere.”
 
Tiffany gave a thumbs-up. “That’s good to hear. Remember when Teri sent him that club song?”

Gina smiled. “Sure. It was our second night with her and we learned the song on the fly.” She pointed at Tiffany. “And you threw a fit, saying you didn’t want to play club music.”
 
Tiffany was laughing. “Oh yeah, when I heard Show Me Some Love and what she wanted to do, I was worried about our street credibility. Here’s this eighteen-year-old, who’s never played in a band, and she wants us to break out with some disco stuff. I wanted nothing to do with that.”

Gina was grinning. “She sends it to Blank, he reworked the whole song into the stratosphere, plays it all weekend, and everybody’s wondering who the Wildcats are.“
 
Tiffany kissed Teri. “Back then, you really were our Little Shit, and that club song made us famous.”
 
Gina laughed. “Yeah. I remember you holding a band meeting right in front of poor Teri. You wanted to kick that girl to the curb.”

Tiffany approached and hugged Teri. “Yeah, I said we didn’t need a fifth member and it would slow us down.”

Teri was smiling. She remembered that moment. Her heart had stopped in her chest, thinking her Wildcat career was ending before it even started.
 
Tiffany was laughing at herself. “I was so wrong and truly blind in seeing our future. Yeah, I figured that Teri kid would be nothing but trouble.” She hugged her again.

Gina added, “And then Blank introduced us to Ellen.”

Tiffany kissed Teri. “And our lives changed.”

As everyone was laughing and shouting, Robyn told them to leave her room. “I need to work with Teri for a few minutes.”

The entire crowd moved to the lounge to wait.

Ten minutes later, Teri appeared through the lounge doors with a walker. She was smiling at everyone. They watched as Teri’s mom came over and embraced her.
 
Teri felt the tears through her hospital gown and realized that she and her mom were coming undone. “Mom, mom. I’m here and everything is fine.”
 
“Oh, I know,” she whispered. “It’s just that I love you so much. My baby is amazing.”
 
Robyn cleared her throat to grab everyone’s attention. “We’re going to get some exercise. Teri and I need to walk more steps. When we’re finished, I'll get all of you from the lounge.”
 

As everyone settled in, Gina’s phone buzzed in her back pocket. She looked at the screen and examined it for a few moments. Then she moved closer to Jenn. “Hey.”
 
Jenn looked up from putting the water bottles back into the cooler. “Uh-huh?”
 
“How many people did you text about Teri’s surgery?”
 
Jenn nodded and shrugged. “Teri and I made a list. You know Teri. She just wanted everyone to know that she was okay. Why?”

Gina held up her phone. “Well, I’m seeing texts about Teri’s surgery from people I don’t know. They’re posting on the YouTube site. There are chat conversations starting, too. They saw your message and are happy for Teri. Many of them are asking for details.”

Jenn shook her head as Gina handed her the phone. She scrolled and then turned to Gina. “None of those names were on the list or even familiar. These are all random people I don’t know.”

“They all have to be Wildcats fans.”

Jenn pulled out her phone. “Here. You can see my original text and where it went.”

Gina shook her head. “Yep. I can see this was a private text, but someone must have forwarded the info. And now everyone is asking what’s going on.”

Jenn looked at Gina. “I feel stupid. Did I do something wrong?”

Gina hugged her. “No. It’s done. Obviously, someone copied and sent this text out to their friends. It’s just a small thing. Seriously, what could happen?”

Robyn watched Teri as they slowly walked together. She was impressed by how hard her patient was trying. “Hey. You’re doing great, and I know you’re all about recovery, but we’re not here to overstrain.”
 
Teri nodded her head. “Gotcha. How many painkillers do they have me on?”
 
Robyn still held her arm. “Tylenol and something to help you sleep. Not as much as you’d think.”

“I’m still numb. Is that normal?”

Robyn smiled. “All those nerve endings need to reconnect. By the time you head home, you’ll be better.”
 
 
Smith closed his laptop, looked over, and saw Lisa sleeping. He was content just to gaze at her. This woman was the most exciting person he’d ever known. He smiled to himself, knowing that years ago he’d given up on finding true love. And there she was singing lead in an up-and-coming band. He’d seen photos, downloaded songs, and fantasized. When he heard the Cats were coming on location in the movie he was working on, he promised himself to be Joe Cool. But after meeting Lisa, all that was forgotten. And their first time alone together sealed the deal. Smith’s idea of true love was based on his favorite movie, The Princess Bride. Smith saw himself as Wesley, ready to do anything for his princess. He was daydreaming when he heard her whisper.
 
“Why are you staring at me, cowboy?”
 
He looked her in the eyes, smiled, then kissed her softly. “Cause I like to.”
 
Lisa leaned over and kissed him back with a bit more ferocity. “Thank you, even if it’s a little creepy to wake up feeling all that electricity coming off you.” She snaked her arm around his neck, pulled him closer, and gave him another kiss. “Mmm. How horny are you?”
 
Smith’s mouth opened, and he perked up. “Uh, sure.” As he stood up, he grinned. “First class has its own bathroom. You set?”

Lisa took his hand as she stood up. She could feel the heat coming off his body as they walked together.
 
 
After they settled back into their seats, their flight attendant appeared carrying two flutes of champagne and warm towels on a tray. When they looked up, they saw she was grinning.
 
After they took the glasses and thanked her, Lisa leaned over. “She knows, doesn’t she?”
 
Smith turned bright red. “Hey, I’m going to plead innocence here. In all my travels, you’re my first Mile High Club lover.”
 
Lisa shook her head. “No. I can’t believe that in all those years you never got your trophy! You mean Eaten by Raptors never had a private plane and groupies begging the lead singer to show them fireworks.”
 
Smith shook his head. “Nope. You’ve watched way too many rock and roll movies, although Streets Of Fire is my favorite. During the three years we toured, there were no private jets or custom tour buses filled with groupies. Sure, I partied like crazy, but we were country boys full of those Texas manners.”
 
Lisa nipped his neck. “I don’t buy it, but okay. If that’s what you’re selling.”
 
“C’mon. Seriously. The guys will back me up. No mile highs.”
 
“Oh, baby. I love you. I really do. But you’re an old guy who probably has a ton of notches on his belt.”
 
Smith sighed and shook his head. “Okay, I’ll admit to some of what you’re saying. We’d been on the road before I was eighteen. And I secretly have three families: one in New York, one in Florida, and one on the West Coast. I’ve got three beautiful children, and love them all. Do you want to see some photos?”
 
When Lisa smacked him, she remembered to tuck her thumb so the impact left a bigger impression on his arm and didn’t hurt her hand as much.
 
He rubbed his arm. Her hits were real. Smith knew not to tense up when she swung at him, knowing it would bruise less. He kissed her. “Ouch. Lisa, that really hurt. Stop picking on an old man.”

She laughed and prepared another punch. “Before I hit you harder, I want to see the photos of your kids.”

Teri looked around. Jenn sat on the edge of her hospital bed. She reached over, took Jenn's hand, pulled her in, and kissed her. Jenn kissed back.

Jenn frowned. “Uh, I think I created a problem. Remember that text I was supposed to send out when your surgery was over?”

Teri nodded. “Sure. We made the list together.”

Jenn looked frustrated. “Well, somehow, that text is circulating online.”

Teri shrugged. “Is that a problem? All that stuff about me is public knowledge. Honestly, I’m not stressed.” She kissed her and smiled.

After a few minutes, Jenn pointed so that Teri’s attention was directed toward the picture window. That way, she could listen in on Tiffany and Conor’s conversation. They were discussing the Wildcats' website and the number of hits on their YouTube channel.

Conor was excited. “This video blog continues to blow up. With Mike uploading weekly posts from the tour, the viewing audience keeps growing. Since the tour ended, fans continue to hunger for more clips. The viewership is soaring, and the fans can’t get enough Wildcats. Mike told me he hasn’t even started posting concert footage. There’s so much to upload, and that doesn’t include the Labor Day concert. However, they need to talk to Warners about what music we can and shouldn’t post.”

Tiffany smiled. “It’s wild and keeps getting wilder! I never saw it happening like this.” She looked out the window instead of at Conor. “Less than a year ago, I was at my lowest. This guy I thought I loved was cheating on his family with me. When I found out the truth, I dumped him. The Cats were struggling through our fourth miserable winter, playing bars just to cover our expenses. Then, another cover band offered me a nine-month contract to sing lead and play bass. It paid more than I was making with the Cats. I was almost ready to jump. My love life was in the dumps, and I felt I needed a change.”

Conor nodded and listened. He didn’t say that he’d already heard the story from his daughter. “Yeah, well, how about now? Would you ever have thought things would be so different?”

Tiffany laughed and shook her head in merriment. “Nope. All joking aside. Teri was our spark. But whoever thought an eighteen-year-old could be a brilliant writer, producer, singer, and musician? She’s changed us around, tightened us up, and really made us a hit maker. I never dreamed about flying on private jets, riding in limos, having big money in the bank, or finding an amazing man to love me.”

Conor was nodding. “And now there’s more. Warner’s gave the go-ahead to post live music segments from the tour.”

Awesome! Mike and Final Cut are ready to go! I worried it would hurt sales when people can hear and watch us for free.

Conor agreed. “I would have thought so. But Wiggins and Warner believe showing snippets of songs on your video blog would boost interest in the album. They think more people will want to download complete songs to add to their playlists.”

Tiff shook her head. “If Wiggins is behind it, we move forward. But the band still has to approve anything that Warner does with our music.”

“I know Richard plans to meet with everyone when Teri’s home. He knows and wants feedback from everyone. And of course, now he’s talking tour.”

Tiffany leaned in. “Tour? As in more traveling around the US?”

“No. Richard is talking Europe and Asia. He has visions of the band doing a year to cover the globe.”

Teri still didn’t have much of a voice but waved to get their attention. She motioned for them to come closer. “Did Wiggins indicate which live songs they wanted to add?”

Conor shrugged. “I don’t know. This was just mentioned in a Zoom.”

Teri appeared puzzled. “Who was on that conversation?”

Conor smiled. “Well, the backers, Warners, and the bookers - Me, Wiggins, Gina’s dad, Phil & Richard, and Gimli.”

Teri sat up. “Do you have these meetings a lot?”

Conor shook his head. “Only when there’s something to say.”

Teri smiled. “Well, I see myself getting out to the band house in a few weeks. I’ve heard I won’t be able to sit comfortably, but I play standing up. And we’ve got lawn chairs out on the deck.”

Jenn was listening. She laughed and hugged Teri. “Oh, I hope so. You have way too much energy to just sit still. You’ll be bouncing off the walls in our place.”

Gina overheard the talk. “Tell me about it. Keeping Teri busy for hours while we traveled was challenging for everyone. Well, except for Tiffany. She’s almost as hyperactive.”

Teri could happily ignore the remarks. “I think that’s what I liked best about the band house. I could go downstairs, play, and get it all out. It was a dream to lose myself in the music.”

Gina smiled. “Well, let me throw everybody a curve. Richard told me that Beyoncé and Taylor Swift had so much fun on Labor Day that they want to keep the party going. Lorne Michaels said they could have the Christmas show on Saturday Night Live. They were excited, and want to release a Christmas Album on December 1st. They want Teri to have a hand in arranging and producing for them. And of course, they wanted the Wildcats to be the backup band.”

Teri groaned. “We’ll need new music and arrangements, and well, a lot more songs. That’s a huge amount of work.”

Gina smiled. “I’ve got a suggestion. Let’s postpone the Wildcat’s SNL appearance until spring. It would give us a chance to create some new music before we head to Europe.”

Tiffany looked at Teri. “And how do we handle getting an album produced for the goddesses for a Christmas release?”

Gina smiled. “Well, I’ve heard they both have songs ready. Teri will need to rearrange the music so they can sing together. If they want to do it, we should just help out. But let’s face it, Teri. Both of them see you as a genius, so whatever you say goes.”

Tiffany learned it. “Both these women are famous for dropping albums whenever they want. They can drop this one a couple of weeks before their Christmas appearance. I’m sure that Lorne Michaels will let them do as many songs as they want.”

Gina was nodding. “That’s pure genius. It’ll give Zoe and Teri a quieter holiday. We should talk with everyone this week.”

After that, Gina sat down with Amy. She wanted to tell her about the painting she’d ordered for Grace. “I’m meeting with her favorite artist. Hopefully, it’s going to remain a surprise.”

Amy smiled. “What a great idea! Grace will love anything you do! I’ve always wondered about you and Grace. Have you two ever thought about getting married?”

Gina hugged Amy. “I think about it more than Grace. After seeing Bruno’s brother, Amos, heading toward us with a loaded gun, I had an epiphany. Life’s too short, and Grace is way too important to me. I told her, but she turned me down. She loves me and said we’d be together forever. But no legal document.” Gina leaned over and whispered, “Between you and me, I think she’s afraid.”

Amy was surprised. She thought that Grace would have wanted to marry Gina. “Afraid of what?”

I believe Grace thinks that giving me free will is reverse psychology. I think she’s saying no hoping I’ll keep asking. You know, we have a perfect relationship.

Amy whispered, “I’ve heard you have an open relationship. I don’t know much about that, having never been married. My whole life has been an open relationship.”

Gina hugged her and giggled. “Yeah, I keep forgetting about you and the sperm bank. I think what you did is the gutsiest thing I’ve ever heard. But I believe love is much more important than random sex. The couple of times that we’ve fought and Grace has kicked me to the curb, well, it kills me. And it’s never over someone else. It’s just that Grace sometimes gets freaked out that I’m only twenty-two.”

Amy shook her head. “Grace looks a lot younger than thirty-five. I feel pretty inadequate when I look in the mirror and think that I’m eight years older than her.”

Gina smiled. “It’s all genetics. But she is the most beautiful woman I’ve ever been around.”

Amy hugged her back. “Well, if you don’t mind me sharing personal stuff, I’m curious about Lisa on the road. Smith is the first guy I’ve ever seen my daughter get excited about. I thought she was a lot like you with the casual sex thing. But I’ve never asked.”

Gina laughed, thinking about the offer from her driver today. “Yeah, funny you should mention that. When I’m on the road and Grace is in New York, casual sex seems fine for both of us. But I don’t go looking for anyone. That’s not my style. And I never ask her either.”

Well, what about my daughter? And please never tell her that we had this talk.

Gina winked. “No problem, Amy. This discussion never happened. But Lisa’s different. She’s kind of like a camel that can go a long time in the desert without water. On the road, every now and then, you know there’s going to be some lucky guy popping up, and then that’s it for a while. She’s never seemed to be into sex. But that has changed.”

Gina shook her head. “Smith! That’s a completely different story. I’d never seen Lisa act like she does with Smith. Seriously, when they met in the Carolinas on the movie set, we all watched in amazement as they fell for each other so quickly. It’s frightening how well they match.”

Amy smiled. “Uh-huh. I’ve noticed that too. But she’s not like some lovesick teen mooning all over him. It’s like they’re kindred spirits and have known each other for many lifetimes. And he’s such a good guy. I think he loves her."

Gina laughed. “Oh, he definitely loves her. Did you see the ring?”

It was Amy’s turn to laugh. “Ring? It’s more like a boulder! That’s the first three-carat diamond I’ve seen.”

Gina laughed. “She keeps it on a chain around her neck. I see her stare at it for a while and gaze off. I’ve never seen her like this before. The whole band loves him, and the two of them are something special.”

When Conor saw that ring, he asked me if I wanted one. I know he’d buy me something in a heartbeat, but I’m happy. I don’t want to replace Zoe’s mom.

Gina smiled. “Mrs. Nelson, you are so smart. I guess that’s where Lisa gets her Zen from. She is special.”

Amy whispered, “Well, I’m betting that after Zoe’s baby is born, Lisa and Tiff will join in too. I see a completely different tour with the Wildcats. I think the band will need a nursery when you head out again."

Gina laughed. “Well, you’re looking at one girl that won’t be delivering….”

Teri was watching and trying to read lips. She felt happy just being there, taking it all in.

Thirty minutes later, the nurse got Teri up and on her feet again. As they walked through the Recovery section, feeling began returning to her legs.

After her walk, Teri was settling in when she started to feel her eyes growing heavy. All the voices blended together and faded away. As she closed her eyes, everything grew quieter. Teri smiled, feeling it was right to take a nap. She sensed a kiss and heard Jenn’s voice whispering in her ear, “Close your eyes and rest. I’ll be here when you wake up.”

Bruno smiled as he grabbed each piece of their luggage and loaded it onto a cart. Zoe waved and gave him a thumbs-up to confirm that he had everything off the carousel. As they moved to a different part of the airport, a white SUV started up when the driver saw the couple. As they got in, Zoe gave the man directions to the hospital.

She turned to Bruno. “After I get there and figure out what’s going on, I’ll give you a call.”

Bruno kissed her forehead. “Tell everyone I said hi. I need to check on the business because somebody has to pay for our vacation. Plus, the contractor’s coming out to measure for our new waterfall shower.”

Zoe leaned over and kissed him. She knew she could have easily used her Wildcat money to pay for their vacation, but Bruno was old school. She squeezed his arm and slipped out at the hospital entrance.

As Bruno unpacked, he looked up at their townhouse, which was his home and office. He grinned as he thought about Zoe. After meeting her, he was hooked. He enjoyed Zoe’s bond with the band and recognized the essential role they played in her life. He never felt threatened watching the women interact with each other. Bruno knew that he married into a family of Wildcats, content to share Zoe with the other young women.

Bruno understood the magic Zoe felt from playing. He compared it to his painting. He remembered a time when Zoe watched him work and asked, “What are you thinking about when you’re painting?”

He stopped and thought. “I don’t know. I guess I’m focusing on the task. It’s all about the brushstrokes, the color, and blending. Funny how I never gave it much thought.”

Zoe leaned in closer to his face. “When you’re done, how do you feel inside?”

He blinked and laughed. “I feel content, very happy.”

She kissed him. “Now you understand what music does for me.”

Bruno loved listening to her hum and sing to herself while she played. Occasionally, he would watch her repeat the same riff until she was satisfied it sounded smoother as her fingers moved across the fretboard. Everything she did was perfect.

When Zoe entered the Recovery Lounge, she was greeted by a crowd of Teri supporters who welcomed her with hugs and kisses. She cheerfully called out, “Hey, gang!”

Everyone touched her belly and commented on how she looked. Zoe grinned. Even though it had only been a couple of weeks since they’d left for Hawaii, she’d started to drop and gain more bulk. She peeked in on Teri, who was just opening her eyes from a nap. She smiled and blew her a kiss. “How’s my girl doing?”

Teri blew her a kiss back and gave her a thumbs up. “Doing great,” she croaked out.

Jenn had been keeping Teri company while she napped and gave Zoe a big okay sign. “She’s really is great. She hasn’t been out of surgery for twenty-four hours, but we’re rooting for a speedy recovery.”

Zoe winked. “Are you planning to sneak her away to your apartment and keep her all to yourself?”

Jenn laughed and shook her head. “No! I’m scared to death I won’t be able to handle everything. I’m hoping everyone will drop by and keep Teri company. I’m afraid that she’s going to get bored just being restricted to lying down. And I’m starting classes on Monday, and it might all be shaky at the beginning.”

Tiffany looked at Jenn. “What’s this about lying down?”

Amy explained, “Her entire surgical area will be healing for a couple of weeks. She’ll be able to lie down or recline, but no hard surfaces on her butt for a while. I’ve already bought her an inflatable donut to sit on. She’ll grow uncomfortable quickly.”

Jenn nodded. “That’s my fear. Teri’s not a sit-still kind of girl. She likes to move around, and I don’t want her popping any stitches.”

Tiffany was hugging Jenn. "Well, I’m coming by to entertain her. We can create a chart and take turns while you’re at class. I’m signing up for the first couple of days."

Gina was laughing. “Good idea. We can tag-team this, and I’ll help Tiff for a couple of days. We can entertain the Little Shit, and Jenn can focus on getting straight A’s.”

Amy listened. “Good plan, ladies. But Momma Bear is going to be hovering all over the whole thing. She’s my baby even though she’s eighteen.”

Zoe laughed. “I hope your apartment is big enough, Jenn. It’s going to get pretty crowded.”

Amy laughed. “It’ll all work out. Honestly, she’ll be doing a lot of napping for the next couple of weeks. She’s not going to be a lot of laughs for a while.”

“Hey,” a voice croaked. “Don’t underestimate your Little Shit. I’m not down for the count.”

While Zoe hugged her and they laughed, Robyn interrupted. “I’ve got to take our patient out for a walk for about ten minutes. You can all wait here in Teri’s room. We’ll be back soon, and the doctor is coming up at two o’clock to talk to you. Hopefully, she’ll tell you about Teri’s surgery and discharge.

Dear Readers, This is an apology and an explanation. I started Wildcat Fall earlier this year and realized it wasn't the story I wanted to tell. Here is a newly written chapter that integrates with the core of the original Wildcat Fall. This is the continuing saga. I would appreciate any feedback. Constructive criticism is important to me as I am rewriting this story. Thanks.
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New Chapter Seven 4016

In the afternoon, everyone met Teri’s surgeon, Sydney Rallings. She shook hands and smiled. “It’s nice to see the faces of the women we’ve been listening to in the operating room. We love your music. It keeps us energized. But now give us a few minutes with the patient. Robyn and I need to examine Teri and then meet with Jenn and Amy.”

Teri watched as everyone lined up and left. Then, the doctor looked around and focused on her. “Your surgery went well enough to do your surgery robotically. You’ll see three spots under the bandages where we made the entry. In your case, we examined your existing internal female organs. After studying your MRIs, X-rays, and CT scans, it was great to find a very healthy set of ovaries that we were able to connect to your newly constructed vagina. We used a small portion of your stomach lining, making the operation straightforward. Using this technique means that you’ll heal faster and possibly self-lubricate. And since Jenn is going to be your home care provider and Amy is a surgical nurse, please stay.”

Teri watched as miles of gauze and tape were removed. She couldn’t feel anything except for the occasional tug or pinch. It was strange to observe and imagine herself giving birth to a boa constrictor. And then there was the smell. “This is kinda gross, isn't it?” Teri looked up at the doctor.

“Well, I’m used to it. Compared to a surgical inversion and deconstruction, this was a piece of cake. The fact that you’re intersex made this a simpler procedure. We did have to move your urethra and snug all the new material into place, but your recovery should be faster.”

As the doctor left, Teri started crying. She didn’t know why.

The last day was a blur. Jenn and Amy helped Teri pack. Jenn found her a comfortable outfit for the ride home and Conor waited in the parking lot to drive them home.

Her doctor had warned her that the surgical area would itch and talked about UTIs. As she was leaving, Robyn handed her a box containing the same dilators she’d been taught how to use that week.

Jenn had leaned in and whispered, “Your first sex toy.”

Robin and Julia gave her a wheelchair ride down to the lobby. After many hugs and thanks, Jenn handed Teri two small gift boxes to give to her nurses. Teri glanced at Jenn, then she said to the nurses, “We want you to open them.”

Everyone watched both nurses unwrap the robin egg blue paper to see a square box with the name Tiffany imprinted on the top. Inside was a gold bead bracelet with a carved ruby heart charm. They thanked Jenn and Teri and promised to listen to the Wildcats.

As Amy was slipping an inflated donut cushion under her seat, Teri turned to Jenn. “Thank you for getting those gifts. You’re ten steps ahead of me.”

Jenn kissed her tenderly. “You’re welcome. You’ll be getting back to normal soon.”

Teri smiled. “I’m looking forward to sleeping without being woken every two hours.”

Amy buckled her youngest daughter into Conor’s big four-door pickup. “I’m hoping that you’re comfortable tonight.”

Teri kissed her back. “Thanks, Mom. I’m thinking about practicing driving so I can commute to Allentown to work at the band house each day.”

Amy’s head swiveled around. “Practice driving? Let’s discuss this when the doctor clears you, okay?”

Teri looked at her mom and nodded.

Jenn was smiling. “We’ll be getting her back to the band house soon. And after we work the kinks out of my schedule, I’ll be staying in Allentown, too. I’ll study out in the country, and we can use our apartment whenever we need it.”

Conor looked up at Jenn. “You’ll miss out on a lot of college life if you’re hiding in Allentown while Teri works.”

Jenn nodded. “I have the best of both worlds. And it doesn’t hurt having a rock star for a girlfriend!”

Teri laughed. “So I am officially the rich girlfriend, huh?”

Jenn smiled. “The whole time you toured, videos were posted every week on the Wildcat’s YouTube channel. Everyone’s been watching the band on Instagram and TikTok. Before long, you’ll be signing autographs.”

Teri frowned. “I hope not. I’d gladly leave the fame behind. The other Wildcats can have the paparazzi all to themselves. One stalker was enough.”

As they unloaded everything and carried it into the elevator, Teri leaned against the wall and closed her eyes. Jenn whispered. “How about if you just lie down and rest. You’re not used to all this.”

“Well, I’ve been resting for days.” Teri kissed her mom and hugged Conor, thanking them for their help. Then, Teri let Jenn help her back to their bedroom.

Around five o’clock, Jenn got a text from Gina and gently shook Teri awake. “Hey, Rock Star. Grace and Gina are coming over and bringing dinner with them. Maybe it would be fun to go up on the rooftop deck. What do you think?”

Teri smiled at the thought of seeing Grace. “Yeah, great idea. I need to wash and brush. Hopefully, we’ll find a little privacy up there. That deck is pretty cool, and I’m sure more than one condo will want to use it tonight.”

“Gina said they’d go straight to the roof and save a spot for us.”

After showering, Teri sat on her inflated donut and worked on her hair and makeup. She was still tired, but could smile now that the hospital was behind her.

When she put on her underwear, Teri had to tug everything into place. She turned to Jenn. “I’m getting fat. Even my underwear are tight.”

Jenn came over to investigate. “I’m guessing you’ve retained fluids from lying down.”

“Yeah. I’ve got to start running again. On tour, Tiffany had us out every morning for an hour. I’ve got to start moving.”

Jenn frowned. “Just take it slowly. I don’t want to see you mess up your recovery.” She kissed her, then held up a colorful peasant dress.

Teri kissed her after looking in the mirror. “That’s great. But I feel like my boobs and ass are huge.”

As they rode the elevator up to the roof, Jenn slid her hand over her girlfriend’s butt. “I can’t tell. But you feel good.”

Everyone watched Teri come through the rooftop door and, with a lot of cheering, yelled, “Welcome Home!”. One by one, they showered her with hugs.

Teri was amazed to see Jessica and Mac, Richard and Phil, Robert from the club, DJ Blank and his beautiful new girlfriend, Fiona, Lisa and Smith, Tiffany and Mike, Zoe and Bruno, and finally Amy and Conor. Teri’s emotions got higher with every hug and kiss.

Teri spotted Phil and Richard. “I can’t wait to play my new vinyl on the stereo!” She paused for emphasis, then turned to Phil. “And I really want to record some new material. Having to stay in the hospital for a week was tough because my brain kept coming up with new songs and lyrics for the band. I wrote up everything, and I can’t wait to get back to work.”

Phil glanced at Richard and smiled. Richard turned to Teri. “Uh, you’re supposed to take it easy, doctor’s orders. But just so you know, we had a gentleman’s wager that you’d be writing new material for another album when you were still in recovery. We figured that you could never just sit still.”

Teri smiled. “And what did you bet?”

Phil blushed. “I’m not going to tell you, but I won.”

Richard grinned. “It’s the kind of bet that we both come out winners.”

Teri blushed, too. “This sounds like an X-rated bet that I’m not old enough to visualize.”

Teri hugged them both. “I still can’t believe how everything happened so fast. Last year, I was worried about paying for a semester of music school, and now I can afford to start my own scholarship program.”

Richard smiled. “Your financial advisor should be able to offer you ways to invest and put that money away. Fame is fleeting.”

As they walked away, Teri shook her head. So much had changed in such a short time. It was crazy.

“Hi!”

Teri recognized a familiar voice. She turned and hugged Grace. “Oh, Grace, I’m so happy to see you. I missed our Thursdays.”

Grace frowned. “Are you okay?”

Teri laughed and squeezed her tightly. “I’m great. But I just wanted to hear your voice, and well, see your smile.

Grace smiled. “I’m just glad that you made it through the surgery and came out on the other side with a positive attitude. That’s reward enough for me.”

Gina appeared and stood there grinning from ear to ear. She looked at Grace and started telling a story. “Okay, Little. Since this is a love-in, I have to share. A long time ago, when you first joined the Cats, I asked Grace what she thought was going to happen to you. You know, back then, you were disguising yourself as Tasha and trying to work through trying to fit in with the Cats. Of course, we didn’t know about your intersex diagnosis. I was wondering where the Tasha masquerade was going to take you. I told Grace I believed you were female from the start. You were just too beautiful and always got my motor running.”

Teri laughed. “Oh, I remember going through a lot of confusion. I was dressing up as a woman and trying to play the part. It was crazy. Jenn seemed to like Tasha and enjoyed watching her play in the Wildcats. I loved what was happening, but felt a lot of guilt. I mean, seriously, what guy should feel happy about pretending to be female? And then finding out that I was intersex totally sent me down a rabbit hole!”

Gina nodded.

“Yeah. My life’s been like one of those video games where everything changes, and you still have to keep completing the quest.”

Gina hugged her. “You got it right. You’re on a never-ending journey.”

Teri turned to Grace. “Isn’t that what life’s all about? I try to have control, but it's like riding a tornado, hanging on for your life.”

Grace agreed. “You’ve been through a lot and worked hard to handle it. I think you’ve been doing a masterful job of keeping your head above water.”

“Uh-huh. Having the Wildcats blow up so quickly and everything we do seems to turn to gold.”

Gina shook her head. “Face it, babe. You’re a wizard. You are magic. But tell Grace about your Vampire love opera.”

Grace laughed. “Do tell. I love to hear where your imagination goes.

Teri smiled. “It’s my take on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. They’re both Vampires from different clans. And when they fall in love, it starts a lot of friction.”

Gina laughed. “Uh-huh. Teri’s light-years ahead in planning for our future. And this month, she’s creating and producing a Christmas record for Beyoncé and Taylor Swift that has to be done before December 1st.”

Grace shook her head. “So you have the other half of September, October, and November to wrestle this project together for the world’s biggest superstars.”

Teri laughed and covered her mouth. “And the whole thing has to be done in complete secrecy.”

Grace shook her head and turned to Gina. “What do you think about all of this?”

Gina laughed. “Hey, we're just riding our Little Shit’s rocket. The rest of us spent four years touring every dive bar and small club playing music every night. We could only dream about what’s happening to us now.”

Smith stood there, looking around at the party and listening to Gina, Grace, and Teri discuss how the Cats had become so popular. He knew from experience that they had a lot more excitment ahead of them. “Yeah, I know that I’m ancient history, but twelve years ago, when EBR left high school, we were content to just play in Texas. Back then, that was enough for a four-piece punk band. We never knew that everything would explode and take off either. A year later, we were in demand and needed a manager just to keep track of the bookings and handle all our money.”

Smith frowned. “But after three years of fame and fortune, we stopped talking to each other. When we broke up, none of us wanted to see each other for a long while. Eaten By Raptors had rocketed up into the stratosphere but burned up on reentry.”

Teri was nodding. “Yeah, but the reunited EBR is coming back hot and strong. You’ve got a new record. You’ve got set lists to perform, mixing new arrangements of your old hits.”

Gina was smiling. “When we were eighteen, we did our own bookings, and for four years, we took every gig we were offered. No one was seeking us out, so we learned the hard way about self-promotion. We played at any joint that would pay us. It was us against the world. It made us strong because we loved what we did.”

“Yeah, you guys never realized how good that was. EBR lost control and became wind-up robots. We never knew where we were and just went on stage playing the same stuff over and over again. Whenever we had a new song, the producers had to decide if it fit our image before we were even allowed to play it.”

Gina shook her head. “You guys were manipulated, while the Cats became tighter. We thought we were record-worthy and never understood why it never happened. But after four years of dragging around playing our music, we were butting our heads against the walls. We were tired.”

Tiffany hugged Gina. “But when Teri rehearsed her original songs and played with us for a weekend at the Rendezvous, Richard and Phil came down from New York. They knew Teri was the missing piece.”

Smith shook his head. “Yeah, you guys took it slow and got it right. When we began to blow up, we were blindsided. Our manager walked away,
so when our music climbed the Billboard charts, we couldn’t handle it. A record company signed us to this terrible contract. They owned us. They made the real money, and we did all the work. You've had it so differently.”

Smith smiled. “We got lucky. We’d signed a one-record deal, and they wanted more. Another lead singer told me that we needed to include all our masters in the new deal. I honestly didn’t know what he was even talking about. But we did, and are still making money when our music is played.”

Gina was nodding. “Right. We had Richard and Phil in our corner, and they’re still watching out for us.”

Smith smiled. “It works because Teri has no desire to be the boss. There are no ego clashes. Teri’s the most diplomatic writer, producer, and musician I’ve ever known.”

Smith was grinning. “One day, we’re playing a rock club in Austin, and the next, we’re reading all this stuff about us in Tiger Beat. We couldn’t stop laughing after seeing our faces on school lunch boxes.”

Lisa patted her boyfriend on the back. “Well, I know two Wildcats that each had one of those lunchboxes and still get all wet thinking of EBR, a band of eighteen-year-old hunky guys. I know that Eaten influenced them to become punk rockers.”

Teri was laughing. “It’s hard to think of Zoe and Tiffany as impressionable teenyboppers.”

Lisa shook her head. “I met them when we were in high school and on the same varsity volleyball team. But they still played EBR tunes while we drilled and practiced.”

Smith nodded. “Once we finished our three-record deal, we didn’t want to be Eaten By Raptors anymore. We each felt isolated and alone. No one reached out to help us.”

Lisa pointed her finger. “We’ve been so lucky. We’ve had great people offering us help.”

Teri smiled. “Did you ever wonder why they love us so much? Is this like a reverse sexism thing, where it’s good for everyone to support beautiful women playing rock?”

Lisa hugged her sister. “Well, that would be a big turnabout. We’d had record companies tell us that we didn’t fit their profile. We’ve been turned down. They were saying girl bands don’t sell albums. And then Teri came up with the idea to sell online from our own site. But it’s cool, little sister, to finally see that you’re lumping yourself in as a beautiful woman. I like your show of confidence.”

Teri blushed. “Well, kinda. I mean, I’m not fishing for compliments, and maybe I don’t hold a candle to the rest of you, but I do kinda blend in. I still think it’s weird to have morphed into who I’ve become. But it’s okay.”

Smith laughed. “Stop, Teri. You’re just as beautiful as the rest of the Cats except for maybe…”

Lisa had already made a fist and was winding up.

Smith stepped back out of reach as he snapped his fingers. “Yeah, you know that blonde lead singer, whatshername? Now she’s a fox!”

Teri watched, then turned to her sister. “You know, I noticed that you like to smack Smith a lot. I mean, you don’t hold back.”

Lisa smiled as she pulled her boyfriend into her arms and kissed him. “'Cause he’s just so darn cute. And honestly, he’s fun to punch! Kinda like sex.”

Teri hugged her sister. “Hey! Speaking of that, I haven’t asked yet. How was Nashville? You guys start any babies?”

Teri had to laugh when she saw her sister and Smith suddenly look at each other and blush. She realized that her comment had pushed a button. Knowing she was suddenly in on their secret, she smiled and said in a hushed voice, “Hey, did I guess right? Are you pregnant?”

Lisa shook her head vigorously as she grabbed Teri by the arms. “No, no babies. But we’ve talked, and it’s out on the table. But we’re still talking, not starting.”

Teri was smirking. “Yeah, that’s what Mom calls the Zoe effect. She thinks Zoe’s baby is going to create an avalanche with you and Tiff. She said something about needing a nursery for the European tour.”

Lisa laughed. “I can picture tiny little tots with tiny little passports.”

Smith frowned. “And cases and cases of diapers. We’ll need a box truck just to carry all the paraphernalia: the strollers, the playpen, the rockers, cribs, and so many toys. All those babies, too much!”

Teri smiled. “Smith, you seem pretty familiar with all that baby business. Do you have a secret family you’re not talking about?”

Smith looked pained as he shook his head and looked towards Lisa with a big grin. “No, not yet. But I’ve got eyes, and my band guys all have big families. But the Zoe Effect is a great idea. If we’re going to take care of one, why not three? These junior Wildcats can grow up together.”

Tiffany poked her head in and laughed. “Mike will have a heart attack when I tell him we’re getting pregnant. I’m already driving him crazy being around him twenty-four-seven this month.”

Teri shook her head. “Nah. The guy is in seventh heaven, having you ‘sexing’ him up all the time. He’s loving it.”

Tiffany grabbed Teri and kissed her hard on the lips. “Nah, the little shit is right. I’m turning Mike into an old man with my demands. I never realized that once I opened that spigot, I couldn’t shut it off. Maybe all those years on tour left me with my needs unfulfilled. So now I’m filling up that tank.”

Mike came up and squeezed her. “Uh-huh. She’s got the libido of a nineteen-year-old boy. But I’m having fun trying to keep up.”

Lisa turned to Mike. “You missed the conversation. Tiff and I decided to both get preggers and have three little Wildcats go out with us for our European tour.”

Mike’s eyes widened. “Oh.” He turned to Tiffany and watched her nod.

Teri was impressed by his recovery when Mike said, “Uh, sure. I’m up for that.” He turned to Tiffany and said, “So we can throw the protection out and just knock a few out of the ballpark tonight, huh?”

Smith stared at Lisa. He grinned. “I guess this old man is in, too.”

Teri howled. “And just like that, peer pressure wins. Just don’t tell Jenn. She had this crazy notion a while back to be a teen mom. I think she’s forgotten all about that.”

Suddenly, Jenn called out from near the food tables. “No, Teri Nelson. I haven’t forgotten. I figured if I could go to school and nurse you back to health, then I could take care of an infant.”

Smith shook his head. “How's that possible? I mean, you’re both women.”

Gina laughed. “Hey, cowboy. Wait until you hear Jenn’s plan.”

“We’ll use the same sperm bank donor who contributed to Lisa and Teri. The baby would use the same sperm that fertilized Amy, and our baby would genetically be linked to both of us. You know, there’d be some of Teri’s genetic background fertilizing my egg, and I’d be hatching it inside my body.”

Smith paused to digest what Jenn had said. Then he stared at Jenn. “That’s crazy genius.” He then turned to Lisa. “I never heard this story before. Now I have even more respect for your mom and know where you get all your independence from.”

Lisa kissed him and then turned to her sister. “We’ve gotta work on finding out who our sperm donor guy is. You know, track him down and see what makes him tick. Even though he doesn’t know we exist, he’s still our baby daddy.”

Teri shook her head. “Nah. That’s wrong. Baby daddies are there, you know, present. This guy has no idea where his sperm went. But I agree. We need to find a private detective who can be discreet and reliable. I don’t want to find our guy and suddenly introduce him to the family. I grew up just with a mom and did just fine.”

Smith shook his head. “Yeah. You don’t need the scandal sheets suddenly connecting this guy with the two of you and the Wildcats. I can’t see any good coming out of it unless it’s for medical reasons. You know, hereditary deficiencies and that kind of stuff.”

Teri looked at them. “Do you think that his sperm caused me to be intersex? Is this all genetic? Will our baby be all right?”

Grace was nodding. “I think that bears some research. Lisa has no genetic problems, but it would be a shame if this guy’s DNA produces problems.”

Lisa was smiling. “All the more reason to find a good detective, you know, one who is great and can keep it all hush-hush. Of course, we’d always worry about whether some guy could be trusted not to spill the beans.”

Teri laughed. “A guy, huh? How about a Super Woman to do the job?”

Lisa blushed. “Oh, my gosh. I never thought of Jessica Jade helping us out.”

Jessica hugged Lisa. “I heard the conversation and would be happy to track him down. If he’s a bad guy, we can arrange to make him disappear, right, Teri?”

Teri's eyes grew wide. “Uh, no. We aren’t going to go all Ninja on him. But maybe some long-distance watching. I guess it all depends. But can we keep ourselves out of all of this? I don’t want another stalker.”

Dear Readers, You will start to see some redundancy in the storyline because, well, I've merged the story, and after a few more chapters, we will finally introduce some new stuff again. I do appreciate your loyalty and patience.

Chapter Eight
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Lisa looked at Teri. “I think it’s great that Jessica’s going to help us out with this. I wish I could keep an eye on this guy. All my life, I’ve wondered about my father and why I was abandoned. I thought it was all my fault that he left Mom. I figured he didn’t want me.”

Teri shook her head. “Growing up, Mom never told you the truth about the Sperm Bank, right?”

Nah. It was just last year when she spilled the beans. I think Mom made a mistake by waiting.

Teri hugged her sister and kissed her on the cheek. “Yeah, finding out was hard to swallow. I’m lucky you told me. I was always wondering when our dad was going to show up and shower me with love. But it’s still hard to blame Mom. She really thought she was protecting us.”

Teri shook her head. “And having to do this scares me. I’m frightened of strangers. My run-in with Bruno’s brother made it hard to trust anybody.”

Lisa laughed. “Yeah, I can see how almost getting murdered a couple of times could do that to you. But c’mon. You trust guys like Wiggins, Gimli, Robert, Blank, and our guys, Richard and Phil. You just drew the wrong Tarot card with Amos.”

Teri gazed off into space, then turned back to her sister. “How about we write a song about Tarot cards, all mythical and stuff? You know, where the Death card keeps popping up?”

Lisa shook her head and grinned. “You’re too wrapped up in your Vampire thing. I can see you slipping into the occult, too. But try to remember that people want to dance to our music. Maybe we need to keep your ass grounded and not in some video game world.”

Teri smiled. “Yeah, I’ve read about too many musicians losing their minds in the fantasy world. You need to help me stay grounded. That’s my fault. I’m totally into reading this story about witches. It’s short and sweet.”

Lisa stared. “What’s the title of the book?”

“I forgot. Something about witches. Just a little fun. You see, there’s this fourteen-year-old who wakes up… Uh, never mind.”

Lisa looked at her sister, then shook her head. “Maybe we should stay away from our sperm donor and just get medical information. We don’t need to be friends. Maybe sneak into his job, copy his health files, and slip away.”

Teri nodded. “Sounds like spy work. But I was wondering what would happen if we just sent him a message asking for his medical records?”

Lisa shook her head. “What would you say? Our mom used your sperm, and now we want a buddy?”

Teri paused for a moment and chuckled. “Yeah, that does sound creepy. How about if I just run up, hug him, then start calling him daddy?” She smiled at her own words.

Gina laughed. “Sure. And after your heartwarming reunion, you’d want to introduce him to Jenn and show him pictures of you and Lisa performing on stage.”

“Yeah, that’s it. He can join us for Thanksgiving with the family.”

Gina shook her head. “And he’ll give you hugs, kisses, and buy you ice cream. Maybe he’ll bring you balloons.”

Teri laughed. “Do you think he’d buy me a pony to show how much he loves me?” She pretended to sigh. “I guess this isn’t family reunion material. Rejection from the Hallmark Channel, boom!”

Lisa hugged her little sister. “Yeah, this crushes our fantasy. But we’ve got to get his sperm sample to a research place that can examine his DNA and make sure it’s still good. Maybe you got the spoiled batch, you know, like your DNA went bad.”

Teri grinned. “Thanks for throwing me into the box of broken toys. I’m the DNA that went bad, like chicken salad on a school trip.”

Gina laughed. “Curried chicken salad is one of my favorites."

Tiffany was smiling. “Mmm. I just had Pesto Chicken Salad that was awesome. Fresh basil, Parmesan, and olive oil.”

Teri was laughing. “Sounds delicious and gives me another nickname. I can be Chicken Salad or maybe Bad Mayo.”

Gina was laughing. “I chose Mayo. That could be your anonymous name when you check into a hotel - Margaret Mayo.”

Teri winked. “My check-in name is Jane Bach. You know, kind of like the composer.”

Gina nodded. “Except it’s different. But I’ve got the greatest name, Joan Weston.”

They all turned and stared.

Gina looked up at the sky. “She’s the most famous Roller Derby queen of all time.”

Tiffany was looking her up on her phone, “The Blonde Bomber.”

Gina smiled. “She started it all.”

Jenn kissed Teri. “Honey, I don’t care if our baby is intersex or you call yourself Joe Mayo. I’ll still love both of you.”

Grace nodded. “They do DNA testing on babies while they’re still in the womb. Gives you time to prepare.”

Smith was listening and turned to Lisa. “Is there a chance you’re carrying a recessive gene, too?”

Lisa kissed Smith gently and shrugged. “I’ll love our baby girl.”

Smith nodded. “Are we having girls? All I know is all about boy bands.”

Teri was trying to be serious. “Maybe put a hold on babies until we get some answers. Jenn doesn’t need any excuses. I think that she’d love to be pregnant right now.”

Jenn hugged Teri and kissed her. “But only with your baby, Rock Star. Our baby will be perfect regardless of her DNA.”

Gina laughed. “Well, yeah. Okay, we call a baby moratorium until we get some answers. But once we get the okay, we all vote for girls ‘cause girls are perfect and boys are ‘tupid’.”

Tiff hugged Mike. “We could still get preggers, baby. My DNA is all warm and cuddly. And I’m ready for my king.”

Mike kissed her gently. “I love your DNA and want to be the one who makes a baby with you. We can start tonight.”

Tiffany kissed him on the neck and whispered in his ear before gently biting his earlobe.

Gina laughed. “Just looking at the two of you, no doubt, you’re ready.”

Tiffany kissed Gina on the lips, then looked her straight in the eyes. “I asked Mike if he’d impregnate you, too. Then we’d have two perfect Mike babies.”

Gina kissed her back, then looked at Mike. “That’s kind of you to be so generous with your wonderful, caring boy toy. But what happens when he falls in love with me and doesn’t want to come back to you?”

Tiffany paused to think. “Hmmm. Well, we can’t lose our drummer, so I’ll just have to shoot him.”

Gina nodded and fist-bumped. “That’s fair. Wildcats first, right?”

Tiffany nodded. “Seems only right. Kinda like how the Black Widow spider kills their mate after it gets pregnant.”

Mike laughed and turned to Smith. “I think I’ve joined a cult.”

Smith looked around and slapped him on the back. “A hell of a cult.”

Gina smirked at Tiffany. “Everyone’s gonna be comparing our two babies. Mine would be so adorable and cuddly with her curly brown hair and sparkly eyes. Gorgeous.”

Tiffany seemed defensive. “Mine would be blonde and beautiful.”

“Mine would be brilliant, scoring high on standardized tests.”

“Mine would be beautiful and blonde, just like her mother.”

“And mine would have great rhythm and be happy to play in the dirt.”

“And mine would be blonde and beautiful.

While everyone was enjoying their evening on the rooftop patio, Richard approached Jenn. He smiled and whispered, “Can we talk privately for a minute?”

Jenn nodded and moved with him to a quiet spot where no one could see them.

Richard spoke quietly. “About the text you sent out telling everyone that Teri was fine.”

Jenn nodded. “Sure, I got a heads-up from Gina, too.”

Richard smiled. “How many people did you text?”

Jenn had to think for a second. “Teri and I created the list together before her surgery. Why?”

Richard shook his head. “Well, somehow it was reposted on social media. Everyone’s speculating about what Teri had done and why she would be in the hospital for so long.”

Jenn wondered out loud. “Is five days a long time?” She shook her head. “I guess it is.”

“Recovery from major surgery is a primary reason people remain hospitalized. The Wildcats' name recognition has increased since the fundraiser. I have been receiving many inquiries. When someone calls, I tell them it’s personal.”

Jenn was wide-eyed. “What’s going to happen?”

Richard shrugged. “Frankly, I don’t know. I’m worried because we lack control over the social stuff. This is Teri’s private life, and she shouldn’t feel like she’s the center of a storm. I hope that it will blow over when the next big bubble of nonsense pops.”

Jenn shook her head. “What can I do?”

“Don’t let anyone ask you questions. Say no to interviews.”

Jenn nodded.

Richard hugged her. “Now, the Wildcats have moved into the famous lane, and paparazzi might hang around trying to take photos. Keep yourself as private as possible until all of this passes.”

Jenn wiped a tear from her eye. “Are we going to say anything to Teri?”

Richard sighed. “I guess I should have talked to you together. She’s got to watch what she does, too. C’mon, let’s talk to Teri.”

They both walked over and sat with Teri.

She turned and smiled at the two of them. “This surprise party is so much fun. It’s great.”

Richard nodded. “It’s great, but something’s come up and I need to run it by you. After that, we’ll have a band meeting and talk about it.”

Teri looked at both of them. “Bad, huh?”

Jenn sat down next to her and buried her face in Teri’s chest. She was crying.

Richard looked at both of them. “Nothing bad, but we need damage control.”

They were both nodding after Teri heard the whole story and watched Richard walk away. Teri was holding Jenn and trying to comfort her. “It’s all right. This could have happened to anyone. But Richard is in charge, and everything will be fine. The paparazzi thing bothers me. But you shouldn’t be involved in this.”

Jenn smiled and kissed her. “It’s okay, like ’til death do us part’ stuff. After all, you’re my rich girlfriend.”

As they were both sitting there, Amy came over and looked at them curiously. “Is everything okay?”

Teri nodded. “Yeah, but we’re getting too famous, too fast. But hopefully it’s all being handled.”

Amy smiled, “Well, that’s good to hear. Now, this is your mama talking. I know you’re having fun, but I think it's time to call it a night. You need to watch your stamina and save your energy so that you can heal quickly and get back on your feet.”

Jenn encouraged Teri to get up. “C’mon, Rock Star. Let’s tell everyone good night.”

Teri sighed as she stood. “Yeah, you’re both right. I’m getting tired, and it’s going to take me a few extra minutes to get ready for bed. On my first night home, I still have to dilate one more time. Oh, what fun, eh?”

With that, Teri walked around, thanking everyone and reminding them to visit. Then, she followed her mom and Jenn as they led her back downstairs.

After Teri took a shower and settled into bed, she could barely keep her eyes open as Jenn held her tightly. Teri smiled and kissed her face. “Well, we did it, huh?”

Jenn nodded. “Yep, we did. And I know how important it is for my wife to be happy.”

Teri paused to reflect. “Yeah, crazy. I’m gonna be your wife. I never thought about being a wife. I've never had any practice being a mom or a wife: no Barbies, no tea parties, no dress up. Instead, I was well-versed in sports, gaming, and music. I guess some of that overlaps, but I’ve got to learn a lot of things to be a proper wife for you.”

“A proper wife, huh? As in, when I get pregnant, would you like to share the nursing duties?

“You mean, give our baby warm bottles of your milk late at night while you rest?”

“Well, more than that. You have ovaries that produce estrogen. And I read that the doctor can start you on a prescription that will enhance your breasts and milk glands. You’ll be able to feed our baby with the milk your body produces.”

Teri began to cry. “That’s crazy to even talk about my breasts like they count. Seriously, they’re so small, how would I have enough space there to have milk? I get that our baby will inherit some of my genes and be fed with your milk. But that would be so crazy if my boobies could create milk. A year ago, sitting in a study hall, I never thought that any of this would be happening.” She wiped the tears running down her face.

Jenn smiled. “Is that good?”

She smiled. “It’s perfect. All this stuff was hidden from me. I was a sleeper alien, like a video game. It’s where I discover I’m the son of Poseidon. Or my real parents were wizards.”

Teri hugged Jenn tightly. “Getting my genitals lined up with the rest of my changing body was a gift. But it’s going to be bizarre hanging out with the guys. Tony’s such a horn dog, and Don wants to be more than friends. I should wear a sign that says I’ve always liked girls. You know that hasn’t changed.”

Jenn was nodding. “So if I wasn’t here, would you make a play for Gina or some other woman who likes girls?”

Teri paused to think and shrugged. “I don’t know because there are too many what-ifs in the way. And all of this is getting crazy ‘cause we’re bringing a new life into this world.”

“So, do you want to start now?”

Teri gulped. “We need more information before we start. We have to track down my sperm daddy.”

“Sperm daddy!”

“Yeah, that’s not really a good song title, huh?”

“Yep. No Grammy award for Sperm Daddy!”