This Story is dedicated to two people who care about deeply. The feelings that we shared were as true as the words in this story. Jenna is my Mother, but most of all she will always be my best friend and Rebecca Ann Stewart was my loving big sis. May all remember the memory of her because big sis you will live forever inside each and all of our hearts!

 

Bikini Beach: Mothers Day to Remember

by Cathleen Elizabeth Hitch

 

The Old Lady watched the couple that had just entered and examined them closely." Please come in." she had invited. Jenna Hitch, the young Lady, and the young adult male following her, walked into the office of Bikini Beach. Jenna held his hand with a sense of nervousness the whole way. The Old Lady could sense the feeling of protection coming from her, as though they were family. "How may I help you?" She asked, but in reality, she

The young man felt a sense of encouragement coming from Jenna as she nudged him to go first." We want to be a family.' He had said, but as quickly, as he had stood up, she had given him a warm smile, to let him know that he had done well.

"I'm sorry, but if it is marriage you want, in that area we can't help you." The Old Lady said with a subdued chuckle.

The young man found it difficult to understand the humor in the implied joke, but Jenna smiled, as if she knew what was going on. She responded with," We don't want to get married. We have heard that you can adjust your transformations, make them to suit a particular need. And our need is to be Mother and daughter"

Do you know what it is like to go through life without the ability to have a child, to want one so badly; but you don't understand why?" Mrs. Hitch asked. The Old Lady nodded and Jenna continued," I love him so much, but our love is that of a Mother and Child.

"Now you realize that you will have take full responsibility for the care of a child. What makes you think you're adequately prepared for a child? " The Old Lady asked.

Jenna thought about it for a little while, but then responded," I don't know if a parent can ever be ready to take care of a child. I do know that everyday we are together will be filled with love, joy, and patience." The Old Lady passed her a Kleenex, as a tear welled up in Jenna's eyes.

"I can sense your feelings are, but why would a grown man want to go back through childhood. You appear as though you are at least in college." She said, knowing that he was.

Jenna gave him an encouraging hug as he started to explain," I'm not what I appear to be. I may look 21 to everyone else, and have experiences and knowledge of a 21 year old, but inside me a little girl is trapped.

"You don't look like a little girl at all." The Old woman interrupted

"I may not look like it but I am one; and I'm in pain each day that I have to leave my Mother to go study, work, and even do adult things that aren't me. She is the greatest person in the whole wide world; and I trust her fully with my life. I may be giving up my adulthood, but I'm gaining something that I never truly had; and that is a Mother who loved me for who I am, and not what I appear to be. I may not be the perfect daughter for her, but at least I can always show her that I care and love everything she will do for me." He said as he spilled his heart out about how much he loved her.

The Old Woman could sense the mutual love and the joy that these two had for each other; and she knew that no matter what might happen, emotionally they were both prepared, but she wondered if they were suitably prepared financially. "How would you support him if he were to become your child?"

"I don't know. You can never plan the future, but whatever happens, we will be there together, to support each other." Jenna answered.

"But she will be just a child. How can you expect her to pay bills or be able to take care of herself?" The Old Lady asked.

"I don't expect her to do anything other than learn, and to grow up in front of my watchful eye. I won't be raising her alone. My Mother will be there to help me watch her, if I need help while I am at work or otherwise unavailable. I have a good job with prospects of improving, so money is will not be a problem. In addition, I have sisters who will be able to help. If I must, then I will rely on a friend, whom I trust with my own life, before I would put hers in jeopardy. She would never be alone physically; and I will always be there inside her heart no matter where I am."

"I can see you both have love in your heart, but I'm worried about you being with each other for a long period of time. If you two will not buy a lifetime pass, right now, a 2-day pass will be cheaper, and you two will be better able to decide if you are meant to be together under these conditions. This will be trial run. And, if you still wish to proceed, after the trial, I will give you lifetime pass, as a gift."

"But I want to be with my mommy forever." The young man pleaded, sounding for all the world like a 3 year old.

"I know you do, but she just wants to test us. For two days, we will be together as Mother and daughter. You will get to be the little princess that you have always felt you were. No matter what, those two days will be magical; because we will fill them with our love and unforgettable experiences." Jenna Hitch said this as she wrapped her arms around her daughter to be. The world might have seen it as two young adults hugging each other, but in their eyes, it was already the embrace of a Mother and daughter. They didn't need the transformation to prove that there was true love in their hearts for each other.

Anya, could not understand why her Grandmother was being so reluctant about not issuing a lifetime pass to these two. Every observation of love was true between these two. She had sensed it, from the moment that they entered, but clearly there was something deeper down that her Grandmother knew about and she didn't. She was watching from a discrete distance as her Grandmother called to her," Anya, could you be a dear and grab two swimsuits for these two." She did as she was told, and ran off. A moment later, she was back with one Bikini. A pair of male swim trunks and a shirt was given to the young man. "I suspect I don't have to explain to much about the process. We don't allow males to enter the park; once you two shower you will both become two a genetically equipped females. To the outside world, you will have always been Mother and daughter. Do you both agree to the changes that you are about to take?" The two nodded their heads to indicate that they both agreed," Then right this way. Anya, can you be a dear and lead these two to the showers while I punch in the paper work?"

Anya nodded and guided the two towards the showers. They never let go of each other's hands till they reached the showers. "This is where I have to leave you. Here are the men's showers. After you have put on your suits, be sure to use the shower. That is where you will be transformed." They nodded and Anya departed.

The two changed out of the clothes that they had worn as they entered and changed into the swimming suits. "I'm nervous." He said as he shook with fear.

"Don't be nervous. No matter what happens, we will be together. I promise I won't let go of you, no matter what." She said as she hugged him tightly. They walked over to the shower together, carefully went into the stall, and turned on the water. Each embraced the other into a heart-warming hug as the liquid started to come down on top of them.

He could feel his body changing as the pink mist filled the room. This made him even more nervous, but Jenna kept true to her word and held onto him tightly. He noticed the more that she held onto him, the less of the space he filled. He also felt the t-shirt and swimsuit grow tighter around him and seem to merge into one piece. Everything happened in a matter of minutes, but to him, it felt like an eternity. She turned off the shower and proceeded to the exit. She had a difficult time manipulating the door, that was when she first began to grasp some of the problems that being 3 feet tall was going to make. She went to the mirror at the end of the hall and shut his eyes tightly; afraid to take a look at what had happened.

"You can open your eyes now little one." Came Jenna's reassuring voice. She said this as she brushed back a loose string of hair from her little girl's face.

When she opened them, she noticed her Mother was now holding her tight. Jenna seemed so much larger than when he was adult size. It was more dreamlike than reality as she asked her Mother," Am I really a girl now, huh mommy?"

"Yes sweetheart, you are; but you always were a little girl to me." She said. They were now a family in fact. The emotions that she felt were overwhelming, but she knew that she was no longer a he. From now on, she was the true little girl that she was always meant to be. She wanted the feeling of joy to never end as she wrapped her arms around her Mother and said, "Mommy I love you."

"I love you too, and together we will be here for each other. " Jenna was going to say more, but was interrupted by a flash. "Mother!!" Jenna screamed, as she realized who had just taken the picture.

"You didn't expect me to go without taking a picture of my granddaughter on her birthday did you?" Jenna's Mother said.

"Birthday?" Jenna asked as she looked at her new daughter.

"Yes, her birthday. The one that you kept going on about for months, and having me help you plan for. The swimsuit was a gift from me so that she could enjoy a day at the water park, because she had never been before. Are you sure that you feel ok honey?"

"I feel fine Mother." Jenna replied. Though she was disturbed, there was a lot more going on than she was prepared for, but she held onto her new daughter and walked towards the door.

"I must say that swimsuit looks just adorable on her." Jenna's Mother said with pride. Jenna was still confused about everything, but she had to admit her new daughter was very adorable and she was hers. She was wearing a powder blue one-piece swimsuit freckled in black polka dots with a Mother ladybug and her daughter climbing a stem embroidered across the top of it. The waist contained a set of ruffles that were outlined in red wool piping.

She was in pure heaven; that is until she was tapped on the shoulder. "Pardon the interruption, but I need to borrow Jenna." The Old Woman calmly requested.

"Mother, will you watch after her for me, while I find out what I'm needed for?" Jenny asked as she gently guided Cathy down to where she could walk.

"But I want to go with you mommy." Cathy pouted.

"I know baby, but I have to go talk with the older lady I'll be back as soon as I can, I promise, and if you're very good for Grandmother, we will do something that is fun. Ok sweetheart?" Jenna pleaded with her daughter.

"Ok mommy," Cathy watched, as tears rolled down her disappointed cheeks. The only thing she wanted was to be with her mommy, and now some strange woman was taking her away. It just wasn't fair.

"Don't worry, Grandmother is here to wipe those tears away." She applied a Kleenex to Cathy's face and gently wiped away all traces of the recent tears. " There now, see, that isn't so bad, is it?" Cathy may not have been a toddler for long, but she was already learning how to accept the good intentions of others, but she longed to be with her Mother, no matter who she was with.

"I don't understand. How is it her birthday today, if I never planned a party for her; and why did my Mother show up like she did?" Jenna puzzled, not taking her eye off her Mother and her daughter. She waved to them; and they waved back.

"Easy child. When you took on responsibility of that child, she became a real child. She is your flesh and blood. She was born Cathleen Elizabeth Hitch. We had no control when her birthday was. As for how old she is, that is another thing. Deep within banks of your hearts, you wanted to share this moment together." The Old Lady explained.

"But that still doesn't explain why my Mother is here." A puzzled Jenna brushed back a lock of her hair, as she tried to figure out the events that had happened so far.

"Search your memory dear. You should remember everything up to the day of your daughter's birth."

"I remember everything. I even remember the depression I went through, because of her father leaving us, when he found out I was pregnant. I wanted to end it all, but my Mother helped me through it and to become stronger. She showed me that my unborn daughter would be a blessing to the world if I raised her properly. From that moment, our lives had been filled with nothing but joy. How is that possible? These memories of growing up as a girl are all there. My first crush, being dumped on my second date, how I got nervous when I got my first hickey." She Giggled a quick stifled that was more an uncontrolled reaction; then, after a second, she regained her composer," How is it possible?"

"Just as she became a true female you did too. Only you were left with your current memories in order to learn from them and use that knowledge in providing for you and your daughter. Don't be afraid to embrace this world. You and Cathleen are still you. She too will remember parts of the life she had, but she won't understand to well. Her adaptation will be easier, and yours might be a little harder. Just remember to be there for each other; and no matter what happens in the next few days, to continue to love one another."

"It is just so amazing! She looks just like me. She has the same color of hair and eyes." Jenna said with great pride for her daughter.

"That was the wish in her heart. She wanted to be just like her Mother." The Old Lady said as they watched Cathy and Jenna's Mother splash each other in the Fairy Tale Splash Pool. "Look, I've already kept you away from your daughter long enough. Enjoy the 2 days together. If you feel that you want to stay this way, come back to visit me. I have a feeling though, the fates may yet have something in store to create more opportunities for you."

"Are you physic?" blurted Jenna suddenly, with a worried look on her face.

"No, I'm just an Old Woman who has a gift and can sometimes use it for helping people out." They both chuckled, Jenna a little less nervous " Now go spend some time with your family."

"I will; and I thank you from the bottom of my heart." They both hugged. As Jenna left, she could see why her sister had recommended coming to see this Old Lady. Jenna then walked over to her daughter. When Cathy caught sight of her Mother coming her way, she flopped right out of her Grandmother's arms and ran straight for her Mother. Jenna bent down, with open arms, as she wrapped up her daughter, and spun her around the air in a great big hug. "I see someone missed their mommy." She said as they came to a stop.

"I no want to be away from you mommy." Cathy said with tears rolling down her eyes.

"It's ok baby. You won't be, I don't plan to ever let go of you." Jenna said and tears rolled down from her eyes as well.

"Do you promise mommy." Cathy persisted.

"I promise, with all my heart. Now lets get you dressed and ready for your party." Jenna said, as she kissed Cathy on the forehead. " Mother are you coming?" She requested.

"I'm coming. These old legs aren't what they used to be."

"Mommy, is Granny really old?" Cathy asked with a hint of concern.

"Shhh." Jenna said, placing a finger over Cathy's lips. "Your Grandmother isn't old at all. She just merely likes to tease so I have to do all the work."

"I heard that. Just because my legs aren't what they used to be, doesn't mean my ears are gone." A wink of her eye let Jenna know that she was only teasing. All three headed to the women's locker room. "I almost forgot something." Jenna's Mother said, as she pulled a package out of a locker. "I know it's greedy of me to want to give Cathy the first gift, but when I saw this, I just had to buy it for her. I hope she likes it." The package was wrapped with pictures of little ballerinas all over the side. Cathy's eyes lit up and grew wide with excitement. Her little fingers dug into the paper, ripping it from the package as fast as she could. When the final piece was ripped off, only a ribbon that had been tied into a beautiful big bow in the center, a pearly white box remained.

From there, her Mother helped open the box. Cathy had trouble figuring out how to remove the ribbon. Inside the box was a little dress of the palest light blue with Polka dots of sunflowers. The skirt and the Peter Pan collar around the neckline were yellow with light brown stripes running horizontally. At the bottom of the skirt, a two-inch hem in a reveal of the polka dotted blue gave the skirt the appearance of an apron. To complete the outfit, and to make it complete, was a picture of a birthday cake with 3 candles on it in the center of the top "Oh Mother it's just adorable. Where on earth did you find it?" Jenna asked.

"A little shop up at the mall. I just hope it's the right size and fits her." Jenna's Mother answered back.

" I know it will, but first we have to get you dried off. What do you say to your Grandmother?" Jenna said, as she looked down at Cathy.

Cathy got up and went to hug her Grandmother, "Thank you Granny." She said, as she held on tightly to her Grandmother; and hugged her with all her strength and love.

"Anything for a cutie like you." Jenna's Mother said. The family was soon dried off and Cathy was dressed in the new dress that her Grandmother had given her. A pair of matching sandals with sunflowers on them occupied Cathy's feet.

Jenna's new attire was inelegant black Crepe slip dress. The main features of the dress included an embroidered floral design on the bodice. The narrow spaghetti straps transitioned into a scoop neck. The overall effect was almost a cocktail dress.

They both waited for Granny to finish getting dressed, but when she did, all three of them were ready. Jenna's Mother said," We all set?"

"I think we have everything. Cathy, grab Mommy and Granny's hand so you don't get left behind." Cathy did as her Mother told her, and the three of them were off.

Jenna couldn't explain how but she knew just where the car was and which car had been theirs. Everything seemed so fantastic in the way that it had changed. There was a child's safety seat in the backseat, where one hadn't been; and what was even stranger, was that Cathy was feeling the same uncanny recollection of memories as her Mother. Toys that she hadn't had before, were there in the car. When she grabbed her dolly, she knew the name of it, even though she never had a dolly like that before. Even the car seat felt natural to her, as her Mother gently placed her inside it with a kiss on the forehead, to let her know everything would be ok. To Cathy, everything was ok, and she was in Heaven as each sentiment of love towards her Mother was resonated, amplified, and returned.. It was more powerful than it had ever been when she was an adult; and this made her feel, safe, content, and happy. Meanwhile, her Grandmother played games with her hands and blew into her belly to cause giggles and laughter from each of them.

Jenna watched the joyful act through her rearview mirror as she kept one eye on the road, and another on Cathy. Seeing the two playing together made her feel complete. She knew that all those feelings about Motherhood and what she was missing were all gone; because now she had her baby; and nothing would ever take her away, If they ever tried to, she would use all the strength she had in the world to protect her daughter from any harm.

Twenty minutes later, they arrived at their house. She was shocked to see cars lined up all around her house, and people inside as if a party had been going on without them. She became concerned her very deeply as she got Cathy out of the car seat and let her walk, with her hand in hers, to the front door. "They're all here I see." Jenna's Mother stated. Only leaving her more confused as to what was going on.

She would have stayed standing there, dazed and confused, if it weren't for Cathy's little hands pulling her mommy. As little Cathy couldn't have pulled Jenna without her allowing it, it was almost as if her body knew just what to do, and how to react, as if in a hypnotic trance. When they opened the door, they were both flabbergasted as screams of," Surprises," Greeted them.

 

Cathy was the first one to recover as she saw all the wonderful decorations strung all over the house. It was a little girls dream birthday. A clown entertained the little girls of the neighborhood as Cathy watch and giggled with pure delight. Jan a delightful old lady from the neighborhood along with her daughter Prudence had helped Jenna get the party, but the one who had arranged their visit to Bikini was Shelly shalimar. Shelly had been Jenna's life long friend since she was Cathy's age. They were so close to each other that they viewed one another as sisters and were always there to comfort each other. Cathy always referred to Shelly as her auntie and enjoyed receiving hugs from her. Shelly had also been the reason for Jenna and Cathy to finding each other. Therefore, whenever she needed a babysitter for her kid Shelly was right there. They both embraced each other in a hug. "Thank you." Jenna said as tears rolled down her eyes.

"Whatever I did I'm just glad you're happy." Shelly responded. That is when Jenna remembered that she didn't remember the other memories. It was sad to think that all the people Cathy had known would forget her. Could she do that to the world? Rob it of knowing the kind-hearted soul that had made her the girl that she is. Doubts started to feel her mind and Shelly sensed this," I know you're troubled by something. Please let me know."

"Is it wrong for me to steal her away from the friends she once had, the family, and life she created for herself. Although people she might have helped lost because I got greedy and wanted her as my own. It isn't right to make them suffer." Her doubts lead to a pain in her heart.

Shelly held onto her sister as tightly as she could and whispered into her ears," I don't understand what has happen or need to understand, but look at her right now on top of Jan's lap. That smile on her face is because she is happy and loved. It's from the love that you give her. If those people truly loved her then they will still feel her spirit around them. Now go enjoy the company of your daughter."

More Tears rolled down Jenna's eyes only this time they were tears of Joy and acknowledgment of the fact that her daughter would never be forgotten no matter what happen to her." Thank you again. Sis you just have a way with advice." Jenna said as she whipped the tears away with a Kleenex.

"That's why I always was the eldest sister." They both laughed.

Jenna then got up and went over to where her daughter was. When she got there, Jan was bouncing her on her knee and just hated to take that pleasure away from her daughter or Jan so she flopped down next to her and enjoyed every minute. When it came time to blow out the Candles Jenna took her turn in holding her daughter and helped her lean over the table. This gave opportunity for Jenna's Mother to video tape and Shelly to take pictures. It also gave way for a little bit of silliness as Cathy grabbed a piece of cake with her hand and tried to her mouth only ending up with more of it on her then in the mouth. Jenna didn't get angry she just laughed along because she knew this wasn't a moment to get upset for a little messiness. It was time to have fun and enjoy life for what it was.

Just as all good things must come to an end so did Cathy's Party. Jenna would have the task of cleaning up all of the decorations afterwards, but first came the task of getting her daughter to sleep. "But it still light outside." Cathy said as her Mother picked her up.

"I know baby, but you're a little girl now. Little girls need more sleep because of their smaller bodies." Jenna said.

"But mommy I no feel tired." Her feet hit the ground as her upper lip pushed out allowing tears to start flowing." I no want to go sleep." She said pouting.

Jenny could sense that her daughter was only being cranky because of the lack of sleep. Going through the transformation and party directly afterwards didn't allow her the time to have a nap. " I tell you what sweetie your granny needs to up to bed. You can help mommy get granny to sleep." Jenna's Mother was quick as to what was going and started to stretch her arms allowing the illusion of sleepiness.

"Ok." Cathy responded. With Cathy in her arms and her Mother next to her, the couple walked to a bedroom. Inside the bedroom was a queen size bed, TV Cabinet in front of the bed, a nightstand to the right side, dresses to the left, and a closet next to the TV. Jenna put the tape Monsters Inc. into the VCR that had been given as a gift by Holly, another close friend of Jenna's. Half way through the movie Cathy started to drift off to sleep. Cathy slept the whole time as her Mother transferred her from the Grandmother's bedroom to her own.. Jenna then stepped back from the bed watching with pride as her daughter slept in peaceful bliss. With help from her Mother Jenna was able to pull herself away. They would spend the next 2 hours cleaning up the romances of her daughters' party, but each item that they picked up was a memory that would last in Jenna's mind forever as the best day of her life.

The next morning Jenna woke up holding tightly onto a pillow. Looking down at the pillow brought a boiled a deep sadness inside Jenna's heart because she wanted to hold Cathy just as if she was holding that pillow. The events of yesterday remained fuzzy and as she feared it was all just a wonderful and wishful dream of her and Cathy being together. That was when she heard the laughter and mustered all the strength she could in order to chase the sound that she craved to hold in her arms. When she reached her Mother's room, she found a small little girl sitting on her Grandmother's lap being bounced up and down. It was enough to bring tears to her eye in order to remind her that yesterday's events were as real as the clouds above.

Cathy noticed her Mother's tear's," Mommy you ok?" She asked with worriment.

"I'm ok sweetie, I just got a little dust in my eye that is all. "

"The little tike one wanted to wake you up so badly, but couldn't remember where you were sweetheart. That's how I ended up with her. I just couldn't resist that face." Jenna's Mother said.

"Granny I want to ride the horsy again." Cathy said motioning her legs.

"Granny's all tired out honey, but why don't you go over to your Mother so Granny can rest some." Jenna's Mother knew Cathy meant well, but at that moment, she couldn't see that her Mother needed to hug and hold her. Jenna's Mother may have been old, but she still knew the feelings in her own daughter's heart. All Mothers knew no matter how old their little one was.

"Come here." Jenna said kneeling down in a crouching position with open arms. Cathy ran to them and hugged her with all her might. The rest of the day was simple of Jenna doing choirs: cleaning around the house, picking up the toys Cathy left behind, and laundry. Every now and then Jenna would have to stop just so she could reach over and give Cathy a hug to let her know Mommy was near by.

That was till she received a phone call from Prudence." Jenna, it's Rebecca. They've rushed her to the hospital. Jan is in the room with her right now and Shelly's on her way. Please she's begging to see you." She said with a tone of urgency in her heart.

"I want to come, but what about Cathy? I can't just leave her here." Jenna stated.

"Your Mother is there isn't she?" Prudence questioned.

"Yes, but that's along time to leave her alone too." Jenna said with concern of her Mother. She knew her Mother would baby-sit Cathy for short periods of time, but she wasn't in the best of help and Jenna was worried if something happen to the both of them she wouldn't be there to protect the ones she loved.

"Bring both of them along. Remember Rebecca always had a soft spot in her heart for Cathy. It will do her good to see the whole family there together." Prudence responded as Jenna agreed. When Prudence voice was gone Jenna fell to the floor dropping the phone beside her. The tears that rolled down her cheeks burned as very ounce of pain beckon to escape with the single droplets.

"What is it?" Jenna's Mother questioned when she saw her daughter in such pain.

"It just isn't fair. Rebecca, she is in the hospital Mother and I'm helpless to do anything." Jenna's Mother quickly dropped down to a embracing hug as she stroked Jenna's hair and allowed her to lean against her knee's for comfort.

"Look, I'll watch Cathy while you go up and visit her." Jenna's Mother stated.

"Thank you, but you two are coming along with me. Shelly's is going to be here to pick us up soon. " Jenna informed her.

"I understand, but till then you just rest your head upon me. Last time I checked Cathy was still having her nap." Jenna's Mother knew her daughter needed time to allow for all the emotion inside her to lift away. Her daughter's feelings were the most important thing in the world to her and even at this age she knew that she was still needed. That is why she and Jenna stayed like that. Shelly arrived thirty minutes later. Cathy's car seat was transferred to her car along with some toys. Shelly then took her sister and embraced her in a deep hug as they carried Cathy to the car. "Honey, I'll be fine riding up front. Why don't you ride in the back with Cathy." Jenna's Mother sad as they were about to enter the car.

"Ok Mother." Jenna knew that her heart was still hurting, but seeing Cathy, they're just made her want to hug the child even more. She didn't want to alarm Cathy and make her think that something was completely wrong, but Cathy already knew by all the expression on the adults faces that something was wrong. She just couldn't understand what was happening to everyone and she didn't like that. She didn't like how she couldn't understand the big things anymore. Her friendship that she had with Mommy was gone because now she was to young and small to understand the adult world that she had left behind.

Jenna asked if they could make a quick stop to a local toy store. There she scanned through each of the stuffed bunnies. There standing in the middle of a large amount of stuffed animals was a Bunny that just screamed cuddle me too her. It reminded her so much of the 7 baby bunnies from her childhood that she nursed and raised. The small baby bunnies where the seeds that later grew up into the need and want to have child. That is why she wanted Rebecca to have a gift from her heart to remind her that she was loved by everyone. When she walked back to the car she leaned down to Cathy and kissed her on the forehead." Mommy needs you to do something very special for a friend of mine. Do you think you can help mommy out by being a big girl and giving this gift to a dear friend of ours?" Jenna asked her daughter.

"Mommy, I no understand." Cathy said giving a puzzled look and sad face as it seemed her Mother was speaking of something that she couldn't comprehend. Lots of the stuff she used to know was being lost because her toddler mind couldn't understand the adult world that she had left behind. It made her start to cry.

Jenna reached down hugging her tightly. "It's ok baby. Don't cry. Mommy just wants you to hold this bunny for a little while. It's for Auntie Rebecca. You remember her don't you?" Jenna asked.

Cathy's tears started to settle as she rocked her head back and forward," I think so." Cathy said still showing signs of puzzlement.

"Well Auntie Rebecca is in the hospital and needs us to be big and strong for her. That's why you got to be a big girl and help Mommy out. This little bunny is a gift to her to remind her of you and me. Can you be a big girl by holding onto the bunny? Then when we get to the hospital

"I can try mommy." Cathy said. Reaching out for the bunny as Jenna placed it on her car seat. Cathy held onto the bunny with all her might protecting it like it was her own baby. She was happy from the fact that her mommy thought that she was a big girl and wanted her to help.

Jenna got into the car and closed the door. Shelly then started the car allowing it to back up out of the parking and onto the main road as Jenna just held on tightly to her daughter. She knew Cathy wouldn't understand till she was older, but for now Jenna was proud of her daughter and how smart she could be even for a 3 year old.

The car ride took 30 minutes to get to the parking lot. It took another 5 minutes to grab everything that they needed. That including purses, getting Cathy out of her car seat, and the bunny that Cathy still held tightly in her tiny fingers. When they reached the waiting room Jan was refilling a cup of coffee. She saw the pair and motioned for them to come over to where she was." How is she?" Jenna asked.

"It isn't good. The doctor's have said the cancer is spreading. They have tried everything, but now it has reached the other kidney. They don't think she has much longer to live." Jan explained.

Anger filled with hate and pain started to build up inside Shelly. It finally reached the tip of the iceberg exploding into a burst of swear words. Jenna quickly covered Cathy's ears trying to block out the sound of swearing. "I'm sorry. I just can't handle the fact that there is nothing that we can do for her. All the pain that she suffered during the CheMotherapy only to be reminded that we are helpless in helping her. It just isn't fair or right that a God can produce such a wonderful soul and then spit at it with disease and sickness." Jenna's Grandmother handed Shelly a Kleenex from her purse.

" Thank you." She said using it to whip the tears around.

Cathy sensed all of the sadness, but couldn't understand why everyone was so sad and what was happening to all of the adults around her. The result of Cathy's puzzlement made her Mother aware of her concerns and kissed her on the forehead," Look right now we all need to be strong. Rebecca needs happy faces more then she does depressed and sad faces. " Jenna's Mother stated. The woman all nodded and agreed. Shelly soon regained her composer.

 

When they walked into the room the site of a older woman around her 60's meet them. She had tubes and wires that ran out of different area's of her body. Machines were connected to these tubes, which monitored different conditions of the body. Inside Rebecca's nose was a nose plug that fed her oxygen from a tank allowing her to breath easier. To the right side was Misty. A local nurse who helps take care of Rebecca while Ricky was out. The first time that Rebecca was allowed out Ricky took her into her care. They had been friends since college and he devoted all of his time to making sure Rebecca was happy. Prudence was sitting on a couch holding Maggie one of Shelly's kids. Next to her was Ricky who had fallen asleep. Bags hung under his eyes, which was evident that he hadn't been sleeping well. When Maggie noticed Shelly back with them she ran over to her and hugged her tightly. Maggie was a 8 year old girl who seemed more independent and mature then most child her age, but on this occasion she was only a little girl in need of a hug from her Mother. Rebecca upon hearing all the commotion woke up." Jenna is that you?" Rebecca asked.

Jenna carried Cathy over to the bed. Misty moved the rolling chair that she was in over as Rebecca's eyes brighten. For the first time through the whole experience a smile light up on her face as Cathy reached over and gave the bunny to Rebecca." Mommy said this was to remind you of her and me." Cathy said.

"Thank you dear. " Rebecca said as tears started to flow down her cheeks. Jenna lowered Cathy enough that Rebecca was able to reach her arms up in the arm and give the toddler a big hug.

Jenna then allowed Cathy to stand on the floor. "Why don't you go play with Maggie and Auntie Shelly while mommy talks to Rebecca honey." Jenna suggested.

She quickly ran over to where Maggie and Auntie Shelly. Auntie Shelly sensed that she wanted some time alone with Rebecca." How would you two like to come to the snack machine with me?" Shelly asked. The two little girls shook their heads in unison indicating yes.

" I think I'll come with you and give you 3 some company." Jenna's Mother said.

The others figured out the same and soon the only one that was left was Jenna. "I envy Cathy. You're a wonderful Mother to her and it makes me jealous of the youth that she and Maggie has." Rebecca said.

This was the first time Jenna had ever heard Rebecca talk like this. She wondered if it was because Rebecca wanted to escape the pain or if she actually wanted to be a little girl. "What if there was a way for you to be little like them and I was able to protect you from the pain?" Jenna asked.

"That isn't possible." Rebecca stated not believing a word that Jenna said.

"It is because Cathy and I were able to." Jenna explained everything to her. It all seemed to hard to believe, but when Jenna described how Cathy and her became a family Rebecca couldn't pass up the offer. It would be a chance to be with a Mother who loved her and have a little sister. She always cared about Cathy and loved both of them. When Jenna finished, Rebecca agreed. The only problem was getting Rebecca out of the hospital. Rebecca explained Ricky could help with that and he did. That night after everyone has left Ricky convinced the nurses and doctor that if there was nothing that they could do for her he rather take care of Rebecca at home then have her reminded each day of sadness and pain. The other part of the plan was for Jenna to pick them up. She did just that only she took a detour to Bikini Beach where the Old Lady came out to greet them. " I see you all are here. The showers are waiting." She said as she motioned them in. Ricky was confused as the Old Lady stopped him." I'm afraid you will have to wait right here. " She said.

Ricky didn't understand why he couldn't go in," Trust me everything will be ok." She knew the rest he would have to believe that she knew what she was doing. A tear rolled down her face. Because she knew, they inevitable could not be avoided. She then focused on the task at hand, as she watched Rebecca being rolled into the park.

Rebecca laid in the wheel chair in a dazed stated. She still wasn't for sure what all was happening to her, but the Old Lady explained," Sometimes people have to lend a hand when the fates mess up on life. That's why you are here because someone up there felt you needed a second chance to relive your life, but I need you to agree."

Rebecca knew there wasn't much of her life left and agreed with ease. If she could walk again as a child and relearn things from a Mother who loved her then it would all be worth it. When they reached the showers Cathy watched as Jenna and The Old Lady lifted Rebecca out of her wheel Chair of the wheel and into a bar stool chair. They then left the room as Rebecca was transformed. A few minutes later out walked a little girl in a bikini top. The transformation had left her a 7-year-old girl who looked just liked Cathy except taller. A tear rolled down her cheeks. "I love you mommy." Her arms wrapped in a big type hug with her Mother and baby sister. She knew now where she belonged and that life would be full of joy and happiness. It was a welcome change to her from the pain and sorrow that she had felt earlier.

"Thank you ever so much." Jenna said as The Old Lady handed her three lifetime passes.

"Not a problem. Seeing you three together like that is a reminder of why this park was created. Just don't forget to stop by for fun at the park." The Old Lady said.

"We will. I promise." Jenna said giving the Old Lady hug. When they reached the car Jenna found her car empty. She sighed knowing that Ricky might not remember anything about Becky.

"Mommy, where is daddy I mean Ricky?" Becky asked. In her mind, she still remembered all the kindness that Ricky had showed her, but it now all seemed different. It was as if he had been taking care of her just like a father would protect their child.

"I don't know sweetie. To him Rebecca might not have existed because of you being the little girl that you are right now. " Jenna said. Hearing this brought a tear to Becky's eyes. " Trust me no matter what I can stay single for long and we need someone to protect our family. I'll find him no matter how long it takes." Jenna said as she gently whipped the tear away from Becky's eye. That night Jenna tucked each of her kids into their rooms. Becky was tucked in with Flopsy, Emily, and Bernadette. One of the new additions that showed up when they got home was Bailey. Jenna remembered Bailey as being Becky's puppy, but she also knew that when it was just Cathy they only had a kitty called Snowflake. Bailey knew when Becky was in bed and came running to her bedroom. After a few doggy kisses he then settled down at the end of the bed resuming her post of Guarding Becky from all the closet monsters that might pop out and harm her.

The next day when looking through the paper Jenna ran across a article that contained information about Rebecca Ann Stewart who died last night. She was blown away by the fact that reality didn't change around Becky. Only the empty shell that she used to be had past away, but as she read she could see from the information provided that there would be a gathering of friends and family at Ricky's home. Janet another close friend of Jenna's offered to baby-sit Cathy. She didn't like the fact that her Mother was leaving her, but Jenna promised that if she gets upset that she can call mommy and mommy will answer. She also bent down before taking Becky's hand and kissing Cathy on the forehead. That cheered Cathy up a whole lot but she still missed her Mother.

At Ricky's house Jenna walked up to Ricky giving him a hug," Listen I know things don't look good right now, but there's something that I need to show you and talk to you about." Jenna explained. Ricky followed not knowing why, but some part of him deep down inside gave him the faith to trust her. " I know this is going to be hard to believe, but that child over there is Rebecca."

Ricky couldn't understand why Jenna would pull a sick prank like this. She had always been a good friend of Rebecca's, but this was to much." Look if this is some sort of a sick joke it isn't funny." Ricky said.

"It isn't meant to be funny. Just ask her." Jenna said. From there Becky told Ricky private and personal things that no child here age would know or understand. She told him about how they meet, how Rebecca loved him, moments that was so personal. Becky remembers these moments because she had retained most of her adult knowledge. Being older, then Cathy had allowed her brainwaves to store them.

"How can it be?" Ricky asked.

"It was her heart that wished to escape all of the pain. Cathy and I both were the same way and that Old Lady helped us by the magic. We still want you to be part of all of our lives. Only now instead of watching Rebecca lay their helpless in a hospital bed you have the chance to be a father and watch her grow up. " Jenna explained.

"I need time to think. This is just way to much for me to handle in one day " Ricky responded.

"I perfectly understand and we will wait for you when you are ready." Jenna placed a passionate kiss on his lips as she took Becky's hand and walked out.

A year later on Mother's Day Jenna's Mother watched as her two grandchildren came down the aisle. They were the scene of pure innocents and perfection in their matching flower girl dresses. Then their was Shelly who watch as she watched her own daughter walk down the aisle. Jenna cared so much about Maggie that she had to have her in the wedding. Next to Shelly was Janet, Prudence, and Holly. They all were real close friends of Jenna and she couldn't see them fighting over who gets to be bridesmaid so she made all of them one. Ricky waited as well for his bride to be. It was a nervous moment, but he knew that this was were he belong and he also knew that when Reverend Bob would ask him if he takes this woman to be his wife the answer would be I do, because she had blessed him with so much joy and a second chance to watch and protect Becky.

 

The End

 

 

 

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