Combined Forces

by

Julie O

Chapter One

  

The frightened teenage boy sat on the bed in his cell, clutching his knees close to his chest. He had no idea of where he was or how long he had been held captive. It had to have been several months by now, he thought. He was wearing a silk nightgown and matching peignoir. When he didn't wear them, his unknown jailers made the room either very hot or very cold. They would also make it totally bright or pitch black for what seemed like weeks at a time. They controlled everything. His meals arrived on a very haphazard schedule, and were so similar that he couldn't tell if they were supposed to be breakfast, lunch, or dinner. He had finally stopped fighting them and now wore the nightgown. It felt funny against his body. For some reason they had made him shave his body. Again, it was either do that or be punished. It actually felt good against his soft body and that bothered him.

He looked around his cell. It wasn't much. The walls were all painted gray. There were no windows. The lights were controlled from the outside. The only furniture was the bed. There was a shower stall and a toilet in the connecting bathroom. Everything was gray, even the sheets. The only color was the light pink in his nightgown and robe.

There was a bit of color in the bathroom. The electric razor he used to shave his legs and underarms was pink. His shampoo was a light green and the conditioner was a creamy green. The lotion he used on his body was white. His toothbrush had a bright pink handle.

He longed for something to do or to read. But there was nothing! Even the shampoo bottle was blank.

What made this so frustrating was that he never saw them. There was the occasional message on the speaker, but he had no physical contact with them. They wouldn't let him speak, let alone ask questions. If he tried to say anything, the lights immediately went out and stayed that way for ages. Why were they doing this to him? They just told him what to do. They never used his name, or any name for that matter, when they talked to him. While it appeared that they were trying to turn him into a girl, they made no references to his gender. He had no identity at all. The last thing he remembered was walking home from school. A van pulled up and he felt a sharp pain in his arm. The next thing he knew, he was here. Wherever here was!

What really frightened him were the sounds he occasional heard through the ventilation duct. He sometimes heard the sounds of someone getting a severe beating. He could hear the sounds of their cries as they were beaten. The cries and moans were awful and he dreaded the idea that he was next. He sometimes could just make out voices telling the victim that the next time they disobeyed orders the beating would be worse.

He wasn't sure, but his body also felt different. He knew that they were doing something to him when he slept. He'd wake up and find part of his body all irritated. When the irritation died down, the skin was very soft and free of hair. What was strange was that they were doing this to his pubic area, as well as his face.

Maybe it was just his imagination, but his nipples seemed bigger and more sensitive. He looked down at them. They were visible through the thin pink material of his nightgown. He felt a strange urge to rub them. He still couldn't get used to the fact that his nails were now long and feminine and painted a bright red. They had done that to him several weeks ago while he was asleep. Just like when had he woken up and found his ears had been pierced. The tiny gold studs were heart shaped. He trembled in fear as he wondered how far they would feminize him. He began to play with his nipples and he was rewarded with a nice feeling. He knew not to play with his cock. The last time he did that he was sitting in a hot, dark room for hours, begging for forgiveness. He was soon lost in his own pleasure and forgot his fears for a while.

The boy's actions were monitored through a hidden camera. The woman watching was very pleased. He was progressing very nicely and soon would be started on the next phase. She would make a note to the nurse to increase his hormone intake. She smiled that the boy had no idea that his food had a dose of special hormones in it, which was slowly feminizing his body. The hormone formula was her own creation. It was designed for use on teenage boys. It would feminize both their minds and bodies, while at the same time leaving their diminutive penises capable of achieving an erection. Her clients paid big money for that.

She would give the boy a gender assignment, once he was bought and paid for. Some of her clients liked to have a boy feminized physically, but to still refer to him as a male or a sissy. It was used as a method of control and constant humiliation. Others wanted one who thought of herself as a real girl, but one who had a naughty secret between her legs. There were two men bidding for this slave and the price was up to almost two million. The winning bidder would determine this boy's exact fate, specifying the details of his further feminization and training – everything from his gender identity, breast size, and clothing preferences to his social behavior, the ways in which he'd be disciplined, and the vocabulary he would use.

She was also pleased with the recording system. What the boy had heard was all a ruse. There was no torture chamber at the end of the ventilation duct, still it seemed to work pretty well. The combination of total isolation and vague threats of terrible violence worked wonders on the captive teens. If they had been adults she would have used at least one session of actual violence first. But with these pampered teenagers it wasn't necessary. They were too naïve to think it was a trick.

They were kept in total isolation at first. She controlled everything from lighting to temperature. By using cycles of total darkness and then bright light she was able to throw off the body clock. They lost all track of time and many had no idea how long they were there.

Next, she checked on the girl who had been captured at the same time. The girl was kept naked 24 hours a day. The woman was pleased with how submissive the girl appeared. She had lost her initial shame at being naked. She was ordered to sit with her legs uncrossed and to sit in other poses to expose herself. The order was immediately followed by the threat of a severe beating. The girl had stopped resisting almost immediately. Tomorrow, she would enter the girl's cell and begin to train her. The lovely part of this was that the girl would be so hungry for contact with a sympathetic person that she would readily surrender. She would willingly accept the maid's outfit and put it on without any hesitation. The woman felt her vagina get wet as she thought about it.

There were ten other teens in various stages of training. Not all would become maids. Some would be trained to be sex toys. One special request called for a girl to become a trophy bride. Thanks to her methods, the others were all passive and eager to obey. Three slaves would soon be delivered to their new owners; that meant she would need to go out hunting soon. That also gave her a sense of arousal, as the hunt and capture were so erotic.

The woman was a very stunning figure. She was very tall, almost six feet, three inches tall. She was in excellent shape and she prided herself on her physical appearance. While her hair was jet black in color, her complexion was very pale. She loved to dress in tight, custom-made leather outfits that clung to her body like a second skin. She would treat herself to a new outfit upon the sale of a trained slave. It was one of the ways she rewarded herself.

 

Chapter Two

Agent Ally Burns arrived home, dropped her gym bag by the front door and immediately flopped on the couch and let out a long pitiful sigh. Home was a townhouse just outside Washington, DC, that she shared with her best friend and lover, Carol Martin. Both were federal agents.

"How did it go this evening?" called Carol from the kitchen.

"Has the agency ever run a check to make sure that physical therapists aren't really sadistic criminals in disguise?" moaned Ally, as she rubbed her right shoulder.

"Poor baby! Did the nasty physical therapist hurt you?" responded Carol sarcastically.

Ally laughed and got up and joined Carol in the kitchen. They hugged and kissed.

"I guess it's not that bad. I'm starting to get more mobility in my shoulder," replied Ally, as she gently rotated her right arm.

Four months earlier, Brian Wilcox, a crazed serial killer, had nearly killed her with a large hunting knife. The blade of the knife had passed all the way through Ally's slender shoulder. While the blade had severed many muscles and tendons, there was minimal nerve damage. She now had two physical scars as a reminder of the case. She was seeing her physical therapist three times a week.

"That's great. So, do they think you'll need more surgery?" asked Carol, returning to stirring the contents of the large pot on the stove. She was making beef stew, a good midwinter meal.

Ally moved over and examined the contents. "Smells wonderful! I go in for a check-up in a few days. But, as long as I make progress, I shouldn't need any more surgery. At least not on my shoulder."

Carol cracked a smile at Ally's last comment. They had tentatively scheduled Ally's SRS for the fall, but that depended on her recovery from the attack.

"Pick out a bottle of wine, please," requested Carol.

"Yes, ma'am!" quipped Ally.

Carol smiled, as she was pleased that Ally was so upbeat this evening. In addition to the physical scars, Ally was seeing a therapist for the mental scars of the attack. Ally had initially resisted seeing the therapist, but after several realistic nightmares her opinion changed. Now, Ally looked forward to seeing Jenna, the agency's expert on Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. The department fully understood and ensured Ally had time to heal.

Over dinner they discussed their day.

"How did the lecture go?" asked Ally. She took a sip of the wine and smiled. It complemented the stew perfectly!

"Surprisingly, it was actually interesting for a change. We had an expert talk to us about the Stockholm Syndrome," replied Carol. Carol was working on a case involving violent bank robbers, who had been striking all over the eastern seaboard, sometimes taking hostages to ensure their escape.

"Hmm, I would have liked to have heard that," remarked Ally.

"I think it would be useful for your whole department to hear the lecture. He discussed in detail the four main conditions for the syndrome to take hold," continued Carol. She took a small bite from one of her biscuits.

Carol went on to describe the Stockholm syndrome and its precursor conditions. First identified in a hostage situation in Sweden, it was what happened when hostages bond with their captor or captors. It made long-term hostage situations very dangerous, as the victim often resisted rescue. She described how there needed to be a creditable threat of death or physical violence to the hostage, followed by an act of kindness by the captor. The act of kindness could be very small and something as simple as not killing the victim. Additionally, the hostage was isolated from any perspectives other than those of the captor. Finally, the hostage perceived that escape was impossible and that doing anything to please his or her captor was the only possible course of action.

"So that is why they cooperate so completely?" asked Ally.

"Yes, they see keeping their captor happy as vital to their own survival," replied Carol. "Eventually, they may totally adopt the captor's beliefs. Do you remember the Patty Hearst case?"

Ally rolled her eyes and smiled. "Yes, we read all about it in ancient history!"

Carol laughed.

Patty Hearst is the heiress to the Hearst fortune and had been kidnapped by a radical group. Eventually she took part in crimes with the group, seemingly a willing participant. She'd been convicted of assisting in a crime, and spent time in prison until it was recognized that she'd been a victim of Stockholm syndrome.

"How rapidly can it develop ?" asked Ally.

"Well, in the original case the hostages were only held for five days. But it depends upon the initial actions of the captor. The more the victims feel that their lives are truly in danger, then the more they are susceptible," explained Carol.

Ally nodded. She was thinking about the reactions of the two girls they had rescued a few months ago. Initially they both claimed the kidnapper was their actual father, even after the police had the abductor in custody.

After dinner they sat on the couch, sipping tea, watching a Bogart movie. A fire was roaring in the fireplace. Ally was sitting close to Carol and her head was resting against Carol's side. Carol had noticed how much more affectionate Ally had become since the attack. She seemed to want to be cuddled and held much more than before. Carol didn't mind, as the attack had shown her just how important Ally was to her too.

Carol leaned over and whispered, "Let's go to bed."

Ally looked up, smiled back, and nodded.

Ally slept well that night in Carol's arms. Brian Wilcox, the MNF killer didn't invade her dreams that night.

The next morning, Ally was examining her body in front of the mirror. She was very pleased with the way she was looking. Her breasts were growing nicely and she was quite proud of them! She then ran her fingers down the scar on her shoulder. It was starting to fade, but it still looked awful. Ally twisted around and looked at the exit scar on her back. She lifted her arm and winced as she reached her limit. Thankfully, Carol had bought her some nice front-hooked bras, as there was no way she could presently put on a back-hooked bra by herself. There was still a way to go until she was 100 percent again, she thought. She also knew that without Carol she never would have gotten through the attack.

 

Chapter Three

Even though Carol and Ally worked in the same building, they drove in separate cars. Their schedules at work differed greatly. Carol was on call, in case there was a new bank robbery. Ally arrived and checked her schedule on her computer. She heard a gentle knock at her door and looked up to see a pretty blond haired young woman standing there.

"Good morning, Donna" greeted Ally.

Donna was Ally's protégé. She had proved invaluable and Ally saw the day when Donna would be the head of the agency's Internet Juvenile Sex Crimes Department.

"Hi, boss. You got a minute?" asked Donna. "I have something I think you should see."

Donna was fast becoming one of the stars of the department. She was a young agent with a very sharp mind. Before Ally drafted her into the department, she had been wasting away as a computer technician.

Ally nodded and waved Donna in. Something was up. They had a daily meeting to discuss cases, it must be really important if Donna couldn't wait until then. Ally didn't mind, as she had an open-door policy with her agents. They could always come to her with questions and concerns.

Donna sat down. "I was going through the weekly requests and I spotted something that bothered me. Boston requested help on some missing teens. Both are from private schools. That by itself is no big deal. But it tickled my memory, so I checked our records and found three other cases similar to that in the past six months," explained Donna. She then paused to allow Ally to comment.

"You think they're related?" asked Ally.

"I've got no proof. Just a feeling," answered Donna.

Ally nodded and smiled. A feeling was what got the investigation going on the MNF serial killer.

"What do you need?" asked Ally.

"I'd like to search the database and see if any others pop up. Additionally, I'd like to see the files of the missing victims," explained Donna.

"I'll call MP and see if they have any objections," stated Ally.

Donna nodded. "Thanks, Ally!"

"If you do see a connection, what do you want to do next?" asked Ally.

"All the missing kids are from top schools, so they are highly likely to be using the net. It would seem to be the most likely way for an abductor to make contact. Once we narrow down the list, we can check for similarities," responded Donna.

"I'll get back to you," Ally replied.

After Donna left, Ally thought about what she had said. Donna wasn't one to see conspiracies everywhere. Ally decided to support her and see where this led.

Ally called up the head of the Missing Persons department. She hoped he had forgiven her for beating him so many times in office football pools the previous fall.

"Rich, hi, this is Ally. Do you have time to talk about something?" she asked.

"Sure. I just brewed up a new pot of coffee, why not meet me in my office in ten minutes?" responded Rich.

"Great. See you in ten minutes," replied Ally. She grabbed her mug and headed over to Rich's office. For someone so computer literate, Ally still preferred face-to-face communication. She hated the impersonal nature of office e-mail.

She arrived outside Rich's office and knocked. He was only in his forties and had graying hair. It gave him a distinguished look, thought Ally.

"Ally! Great to see you! Please come in," greeted Rich.

"Thanks," replied Ally.

Rich took her mug and filled it with coffee. Ally held the mug close to her face and soaked in the aroma.

"Kona?" she asked.

"Yes. It tastes as good as it smells," replied Rich.

Ally took his advice and wasn't disappointed. The coffee was exquisite!

"I have a request. One of my agents has a hunch on some missing teens. She would like to search your database," stated Ally.

"That's what I love about you, Ally; right to the point! I don't have a problem with that. We can barely get through our caseload as it is. What does she suspect?" asked Rich.

"Possible connection between several missing prep-school teens. I trust her opinion and I think it is worth a shot," explained Ally.

Rich nodded. "I assume we are talking about Donna."

Ally smiled and nodded.

"If I didn't respect you so much, I would try to steal her from you," laughed Rich.

"If she gets anything, we'll let you know," replied Ally, ignoring Rich's false threat.

"I know you will."

"Thanks for the coffee," stated Ally as she stood up.

"Whoa, not so fast. I have a favor to ask in return," smiled Rich.

Ally looked at him and rolled her eyes in jest.

"My kid's school wants someone to speak to parents and students about Internet safety. I was hoping you would do it," asked Rich.

Ally knew the school, as Rich had sold her numerous raffle tickets for school functions. Ally didn't hesitate with her answer. "Sure. When?"

"How 'bout Tuesday at 3:00?" he asked with a smile.

Ally laughed. "I think you had this planned out in advance! Tuesday is fine, I don't have therapy that night."

Rich nodded knowingly. He had been seriously wounded several years ago and had undergone a long rehab in order to return to work.

"Any time you want to talk about it, Kid," he offered.

Ally smiled back. Rich was one of the few people in the office that could call her Kid and get away with it.

"Call me when you have confirmed the date with the school," stated Ally.

She had wanted to do a school program for a while and this would be a great opportunity to try it out. Back in her office, she called in Donna and gave her the go-ahead to start her search of the database. She also reminded her to wear her jacket when she went down to the research room. After Donna left, Ally called Michelle, her friend in research, and told her that Donna was coming down. Michelle's staff was constantly overworked, but a nice bottle of wine would smooth the path for Donna. Actually, Ally knew the bribe wasn't necessary, but she loved sharing good wine with Michelle.

 

Chapter Four

The voice that came out of the walls was surprising soft and gentle, thought the boy.

"You will have a visitor this morning. You will not speak until you are told to. You will not complain or argue. You will show respect to this person. ANY violation of these rules will be met with immediate and harsh punishment. If you understand and are willing to obey these rules then say, 'Yes, I will obey'."

With almost no hesitation the boy answered, "Yes, I will obey."

He sat on his bed and eagerly awaited his visitor. He so craved contact with another person, even if it was one of his captors.

In the control room, the woman watched and was very pleased. She had seen so many teens trained that she immediately knew when one's will had been broken. The boy, if he could be called that anymore, was now ready to start the next phase of his treatment.

The increased hormones had caused a remarkable change in his personality. He was overwhelmed with his emotions and was in desperate need of contact with another person. He willing dressed in fine lingerie now. She looked at the screen and saw that he was in a garter belt, stockings, panties, pushup bra, and lace teddy. They were all a soft pink. She decided that he would only wear pink for this phase of his training. His hair would soon be long enough for his first perm. What little masculinity left in him was slowly fading. He found that he started crying very easily now. He couldn't even control his own emotions now!

The woman switched to another monitor and watched in pride as what appeared to be a buxom young woman dressed. The "girl" appeared to be the picture perfect sexy French maid. In fact, she was fluent in French and had been conditioned to only speak French, or English with a heavy, sexy French accent. Six months earlier, she had been at the same phase as the boy. It was hard to believe that the sexy young woman had once been a teenage boy. The woman knew that in a few days the young woman would be introduced to her master, she began to finger herself at the thought of starting a new slave on the road to a lifetime of servitude. .

A man walked into the control room and watched his wife pleasure herself.

"Enjoying the show?"

"Yes, Thomas, very much so. Has the final payment been made for her?" asked the woman pointing to the monitor. She continued to pleasure herself.

"Yes, Margo, it was deposited two hours ago," replied Thomas. He slipped his arms around her.

They kissed long and passionately.

Thomas was a large man. He had to be to satisfy Margo. He was six foot, four inches tall. He kept his head shaved smooth and had no facial hair. This was for Margo, who preferred her lovers smooth.

Margo stopped him from going any further.

"I need to see after our assets first. But don't fret, there will be plenty of time to play later this afternoon," promised Margo. Margo was very serious about sticking to the timelines for treatment for the slaves under her control. "By the way, we'll need to start hunting again."

"I know. I'm looking at the Philadelphia area," replied Thomas.

"Good. That means that we'll be hunting local in a month," replied Margo, with an evil sounding laugh.

Thomas smiled. "Of course. You know I always keep the best for last. I even have a few new schools targeted in the DC area."

 

Chapter Five

"How's the presentation coming?" asked Donna, as she stood in the doorway to Ally's office.

"Pretty good. I think I'm ready," stated Ally without looking up from her computer.

"I have some data to show you," stated Donna.

Ally stopped and looked up. "Please come in. What do you have?" asked Ally. "Donna, you do know that you don't have to wait out there? I don't mind you coming right in."

Donna smiled. "I know. I just think you deserve the level of respect you've earned."

Ally smiled.

Donna laid down a map on Ally's desk. It showed a pattern of missing teens throughout the Northeast corridor, the area between Boston and Washington, DC. It showed over twenty missing teens over the last three years

"My god!" exclaimed Ally, stunned at the number of missing teens. She reviewed the data for a few moments and shook off her shock. "So there are one to two abductions in a city and then none for almost a year?"

"Yes, that what it looks like. All of the abductions marked have similar circumstances - smart, happy kids from prep and private schools who suddenly disappeared. From what I have seen so far, none had any history of problems. They were all the cream of the crop, and none have been found, dead or alive," noted Donna. "I've also noticed that both sexes have disappeared, which makes me think this is not a predator acting alone."

"This is a good start. I'll arrange a meeting with Rich and his department. We'll run this by them and see what they think. If we can find an Internet connection, I'll add this to our workload," stated Ally. "Don't worry, Donna, it this pans out I'll assign sufficient help."

"Thanks," replied Donna. She then looked at Ally with a very serious expression on her face. "I can't explain why, but I have a really bad feeling about this one. I can't shake it, but someone really evil is behind these kids' abductions."

"I understand. I've had those feelings myself about some cases," added Ally.

Rich agreed to a meeting. It was scheduled for the following afternoon. That was a good sign, thought Ally. He must also think that Donna was onto something.

Ally looked at her watch and saw it was time to go. She packed up her laptop and grabbed her coat. When it was snowing or raining, she wore her parka from LL Bean. One sure thing she had learned about winter from Carol was that warmth and comfort were more important than fashion. Still, she liked to look good too. It was just cold today, with no chance for snow, so she had worn her long camelhair coat. Another good thing about winter was that it allowed her to wear nice leather boots. Carol kidded her that she was developing a fetish concerning boots. Ally smiled, she didn't consider seven pairs of nice leather boots to be a fetish!

Ally arrived at the private school in Virginia, just outside Washington, DC. It looked like a nice school, she thought. There was something very comfortable about the look of old brick buildings with white trim and ivy covered walls.

Ally was a bit surprised by the turnout. It appeared to be standing-room-only in the auditorium. It seemed many parents had shown up, as well as all the students. The one thing that Ally didn't want to do was to be heavy handed. She wanted to get her message out to be safe and to use common sense without scaring the parents or alienating the students. Rich had told her that he wouldn't be there, but she had been greeted and introduced to the headmistress by his wife, Alyce.

As she spoke, she spotted a familiar face in the crowd. She couldn't place his name at first, but she knew it would come to her. She smiled at the fact that he was trying to place her face too.

The lecture and Q&A went better than Ally could have hoped. She emphasized that if something seemed strange or inappropriate, then to let some adult know. She emphasized not to give out a phone number without telling their parents, and then to use a cell phone number that could not be traced to the home. They all seemed to accept this advice.

Afterwards, the man walked up to her with a teenage girl. She then recognized him from the firing range.

"It's Steve Williams, isn't it?" she asked.

He smiled. "Yes, Ally. So you remembered me?"

Ally nodded. One important part of being an agent was remembering names and faces. Obviously, Steve had a sharp memory too.

"Ally, this is my daughter, Beth," introduced Steve.

Ally smiled and greeted the pleasant young woman standing before her. They talked about the presentation for a few minutes. Ally was impressed with Beth's knowledge of Internet crime.

"By the way, thank you for the help," stated Ally. "I think it saved my life." The firing position that Steve had taught her had allowed her to twist at the last second, saving her from a fatal injury.

Steve stared back at her and then it hit him. "My god! That was you!"

Ally nodded.

Beth looked confused and turned to Steve. "What happened?"

"Beth, Ally is the agent who caught the MNF serial killer last fall," announced Steve.

Beth looked at Ally in awe and admiration. "I'm honored to meet you."

Ally felt her face turning red. "Thanks, Beth. I appreciate that."

They hugged each other.

"How're you doing?" asked Steve.

"Better. I have a way to go, at least that is what my physical therapist says. We meet three times a week in her dungeon," quipped Ally.

"Been there, done that," replied Steve with a laugh.

Ally instantly liked both of them. She also wondered what section of the agency he was in.

"So you've actually posed as teens online to catch perverts?" asked Beth.

Ally laughed. "That's oversimplifying it a bit, but that's what we do."

"That's sounds really interesting. It's a combination of acting and detective work," added Beth.

"Funny you should mention acting. We've actually used acting coaches to train new agents," remarked Beth.

"Beth has a role in the school play and has become star struck," quipped Steve

Beth rolled her eyes at Steve's embarrassing comment. Ally saw this and they all laughed.

"If you'd like, I can give you a tour sometime," offered Ally. "That's if your parents okay it."

Beth immediately looked at Steve. "Please!"

Steve laughed and nodded.

"Great. We can arrange a date that works with your school schedule," replied Ally.

"We have a day off next Monday, if that isn't too soon," Beth instantly replied.

Ally thought about it. There was nothing big on the schedule, outside of their usual insanity. Beth seemed genuinely interested and Ally didn't want to squash her enthusiasm. "Sounds good."

"Great!" smiled Beth.

"I have a great idea, why don't you come over for dinner?" asked Ally, turning to Steve. "It's the least I can do to thank you."

"I don't know if you should be thanking me. After all, you still got hurt pretty badly," replied Steve.

"Nonsense. Carol and I don't get enough company. What do you say to Saturday at 6:00?" replied Ally. She knew that Carol wouldn't mind. "Of course, you're invited too, Beth."

"That sounds like fun!" exclaimed Beth.

There was something about Beth that seemed different, thought Ally. She looked like the typical teenager, but there was a sense of more maturity than she would have expected. She was also pleased that neither seemed all that concerned that she was a lesbian.

"Can I call you to confirm? I need to check with my wife, Maggie," explained Steve.

"Sure, here's my card," stated Ally as she wrote her home number on the back of her business card.

"Thanks, Ally," replied Steve.

Ally called Carol on the way home, and, as expected, Carol was delighted to have an opportunity to cook for company. She also was interested in talking to Beth. There was something interesting about her, thought Ally.

On their way home, Steve and Beth discussed Ally.

"Dad, tell me how you met her?" asked Beth.

Steve told her about the incident on the range. He said that it stood out because of the weapon she was training with and the intensity she was showing concerning the case.

"I could tell that it wasn't just a case to her. It was personal," added Steve.

"Hmm, that sounds like two people I know," quipped Beth.

Steve smiled. "She's pretty tough. I read the after-action report and she held her own against a real psychopath."

"How badly was she hurt?' asked Beth

Steve could sense the concern in Beth's voice. "It was bad. She was stabbed by the killer with a large hunting knife. From what I heard, the knife went through her shoulder and she almost died of blood loss."

Beth just nodded. She knew she had been lucky in her own life. Her respect for Ally had just gone through the roof.

"I can't wait to talk to her about her work. I think it's cool that she is in charge of such an important department," added Beth.

Steve knew that Ally was transgendered. He had suspected something when they first met and he had heard some rumors. Personally, he didn't care. It was her life and she had a right to be happy. Besides, he was the father of a seventeen-year-old daughter who used to be a 26-year-old man, so who was he to judge? He didn't bring this up with Beth, not that he thought it would bother her, but Ally had a right to her privacy. If Ally wanted to tell them, that was up to her. He was pleased to see an instant rapport between the two of them.

Beth was excited about the possibility of meeting Ally at work and touring the office. She had felt an instant friendship with Ally. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but she sensed that Ally and she had more in common than what met the eye. She was also impressed that a young woman like Ally could hold such a responsible position in the agency. It definitely made her think!

Maggie readily agreed to the dinner invitation and Steve called Ally to confirm. He was also pleased that Ally had the forethought to ask if any of them had special dietary needs, preferences, or major dislikes.

"No," he chuckled, "we're all on seafood diets; if we see food, we eat it."

 

Chapter Six

Ally and Donna sat down in the briefing room. As it was held in Rich's department, they brought the snacks. Even thought it was mid-afternoon, they brought doughnuts. They wouldn't go to waste. Ally always marveled how quickly leftover doughnuts disappeared when left in a briefing room. A dead antelope on the Serengeti lasted longer!

"I have to admit that I'm nervous," confessed Donna.

"Don't be. You have a good theory and some preliminary facts to back it up. Rich thinks so too, otherwise he wouldn't have called the meeting," stated Ally.

Rich and his team walked into the briefing room.

"I'm glad you're here," whispered Donna.

Ally smiled and mouthed, "No problem."

Rich was joined by two agents. Ally recognized one of them. His name was Bob and he was a good guy. He had helped Ally several times. The other agent was a woman. Ally estimated that she was in her late thirties. She was a little taller than Ally and wore her black hair pulled back in a bun.

Rich introduced Bob and the woman, whose name was Grace. "Okay, I think Donna should start the meeting."

Ally sat back and watched as Donna gave an excellent briefing. She felt a sense of pride in Donna's performance. Ally looked around and saw that Donna had everyone's attention. When she finished, she opened the floor for questions and comments.

"There are too many commonalities in the cases to ignore. The next question is how are they connected?" offered Rich.

"We'll need to go through their files and look for connections. Many parents in cases like this don't change their child's room. So we may find some clues there," remarked Bob.

"Hopefully we can get some info from their computers," added Donna.

"We can check with their schools too," stated Grace.

"Good. I think we have our team right here," remarked Rich. "Do you agree, Ally?"

"Absolutely," concurred Ally

"Donna, I know you did the initial work on this, but I would prefer Bob be in charge, he's had more experience in this sort of thing and it's primarily an MP case unless we prove an Internet connection," suggested Rich.

If he was afraid this would offend Donna, he was wrong. "I was about to suggest that myself!" answered Donna. "I just want to get the kids back."

Bob nodded in approval. He had heard good things about Donna and was pleased she was so willing to accept his leadership.

"Grace, you have any objections to Bob leading this group?" asked Rich.

"No, none at all," she replied

Ally could sense that Grace wasn't happy. She figured that Grace was getting to the point in her career when she was beginning to realize that she would never be a department head. That didn't mean she wouldn't be a big asset to the investigation though; some people who were great investigators just didn't have leadership talents.

Ally left Donna with Bob and Grace and headed back to her office. She rotated her shoulder as she walked. She looked at her watch and saw that she had an appointment with the torture chamber in an hour. Still, the hour of pain was worth it; if it prevented her from needing more surgery, then it was worth it.

 

Chapter Seven

Less than two hours away, a different sort of therapy was being applied. Margo was pleased with the increased submissive nature of the young boy. Although she had to admit that he barely looked like a boy now. He was dressed in a frilly silk French maid's outfit. His waist was nice and slim, thanks to the pink satin corset he was wearing. He would be wearing a corset from now on, even when he slept. His thin smooth legs were encased in black seamed stockings. Margo was pleased that his seams were straight. She had watched earlier on the monitor as he spent nearly an hour adjusting his seams. He was still a bit wobbly on his 5" heels, but she gave him some slack there. He was trying very hard to walk correctly.

His makeup still needed work, but again it was obvious that he had been practicing. It still amazed her how fast they became submissive. She loved to search the tapes for the instants that they gave up and submitted to her completely. Margo thought about putting together a tape of those moments to watch. It would be a great tape to pleasure herself to!

"Matron, is my appearance acceptable?" asked the boy eagerly.

All the slaves were instructed to call her Matron. She was the only person they came in contact with, until the final phase of their training. By then, they would be totally obedient and would do anything she asked. The final phase was their sexual training.

She pretended to inspect him. "You are making good improvement and you're getting prettier everyday. Yes, I am pleased."

She watched as he broke out in a big smile. That was delicious too! Watching him get genuinely happy over being complimented. A month ago he would have been fighting her, now he was delighted in being told that he looked like a pretty maid.

One of the reasons they risked grabbing the rich kids was that they tended to be more intelligent and therefore easier to train. Also the clients preferred more cultured slaves. Before he was abducted he was cramming for his college entrance exams, now he was more concerned with keeping his nails pretty.

The boy might not have a name for six more months. His new owner would get to pick the name and then he would be conditioned to accept it. The bidding for this one was getting interesting. She hoped that it would end soon, so she could begin the implanting of the new personality.

Of course, he would be a very different person by the time his owner received him. His breasts were a small A-cup, but she expected they would reach C-cup on their own. Then he would get implants. Most of her clients like their slaves to be buxom. She preferred more natural sized breasts, but the client was always right.

He was responding well to the corset and was naturally thin. She didn't feel surgery would be necessary. Sometimes ribs were removed in order to give the slave a smaller waist. Soon his penis would be pierced, as would his nipples. Additional piercings would be done at the request of the client.

His personality would be modified too. A new trend was to make the maid speak in an accent. She thought it was silly, but if the clients wanted it, who was she to object. The results with that sort of conditioning were very successful. She doubted that they could speak English without an accent, even if they wanted to. The boy in front of her spoke two languages other than English. He was fluent in French and Spanish. Either one would be very cute. She would leave it up to the client, although she was partial to French; it was just so sexy.

She instructed him to spend the next few hours on his makeup and she left to inspect the other slaves in training. The girl who was abducted at the same time was also becoming a very willing slave and maid. Her hair was now bleached blonde, and she took great pride in styling it.

She was already speaking with an accent. She had been a special order and her new owner was very specific in his tastes. He wanted her to have a Dutch accent. It had taken some looking, but they had found a girl in Boston who spoke fluent Dutch. The girl was also to be a good pianist. Fortunately she'd already met this requirement, so they'd only had to provide a piano for her to keep in practice. The "reward" of the piano had done wonders in her acceptance of her new role. He'd also given a long list of body piercings he wanted on her. Margo thought this was a shame as the girl had a beautiful body. But for two million dollars she would comply.

Margo returned to her office. Thomas walked in and poured them both a drink.

Margo took the drink. "Thank you, my love."

"I contacted Marcus and he said that he'll e-mail us a list of good candidates from the Philadelphia area," stated Thomas.

"Excellent!" exclaimed Margo. "I have one special order to fill. We will need an oriental boy, to become an oriental girl. Must be very petite."

"That shouldn't be much of a problem."

Margo nodded.

"The final bid came in on the newest boy slave. The other candidate just dropped out. The new owner would like HER to speak with a French accent. He was pleased that she was still available," informed Thomas

"How pleased?" asked Margo, as she stretched back in her leather office chair.

"Very pleased! He paid three million for her. The bank confirmed his deposit twenty minutes ago!" continued Thomas.

"Excellent! I'll start her on her new identity tomorrow," beamed Margo. That always was an exciting event, she thought. "Did he suggest a name?"

"Yes, Bébé! I believe it means baby in French," replied Thomas with a laugh.

She smiled. "Bébé, it is!"

"I must admit that you were right. I was watching your training sessions and we really do get much better results with kindness than pain," admitted Thomas. He had moved behind Margo and he began to massage her shoulders.

"It has multiple benefits. First off, the slave is much more receptive to training. By the time they are done with the initial isolation phase, they have almost no will power. They have little urge to resist. The threat of punishment is often enough to get them to obey. They're all very intelligent and learn quickly. There's no need to crush them completely. Besides, this way we don't scar the merchandise," explained Margo. She stretched out like a cat. "Hmmm…… that feels wonderful!"

Margo had learned her trade in breaking down terrorists for the government. It was highly successful, when they were allowed to do it. Her superiors were too squeamish and refused to let her do her job. It was too frustrating, so she had quit and gone into business for herself.

Thomas filled many roles in Margo's life and organization. He was her lover, her business manager, and was a skilled plastic surgeon. He had lost his license for conducting bizarre body modifications. He was also a cold-blooded killer.

"I was wondering if we could take a break after we fill the next few orders. We're fixed for life and we can always start up again," stated Thomas as he continued to work her shoulders.

"That might be a good idea. What do you have in mind?" replied Margo.

"I was thinking of a 'round the world vacation," replied Thomas.

"That would be nice."

"To make it more enjoyable, when we go hunting next month I want to pick out a nice slave for you. I think you should have a personal servant as we travel the globe."

Margo swung around in her chair. A wicked smile was on her face. "Oh, Thomas, I do love you! I know exactly what sort of girl I want too!"

Thomas smiled and lifted Margo up and escorted her to the bedroom.

 

Chapter Eight

Ally was walking around the control room getting status reports from her agents. She was too busy these days to work on actual cases and she missed that part of the job. Still, it was rewarding to see her agents hard at work.

Ally walked over to Donna, who seemed lost in thought. "What's wrong?"

Donna looked up. "Can we talk in private?"

Ally nodded and they walked back to Ally's office. Once inside, Donna closed the door and sat down across from Ally.

"I have something to tell you. I don't want to make a big deal about it, but I think you should know," explained Donna in a soft voice.

"You okay?" asked Ally.

"It's not me. The other day I was working with the group from MP. I was getting a soda when Grace came up. She told me that she had heard a rumor that you were a transvestite. She then said she could tell that wasn't true and was glad, because she couldn't stand the idea of one of THEM using the women's room. My reaction must have given something away, because she got all silent."

Donna paused and looked at Ally.

"Go on, Donna."

"Before I go on, I just want to say that our department knows your situation and we only want you to be happy. You're the best boss I've ever worked for. I think you are a very courageous woman," stated Donna with conviction.

"Thank you," replied Ally.

"Anyway, Grace stated that she couldn't imagine working for someone like that and so on and so on. I asked her to knock it off and she said, quote, 'Fine! If you want to support some freak, then I guess that's your problem!' Her words, not mine."

"I see. Did she make any other comments?" asked Ally.

"No. But I could tell that she wasn't about to let the issue die. I think she is going to try to make some trouble," continued Donna.

"I'll call Rich and we'll get everyone together. If this is going to affect the investigation, we'll have to make some changes," stated Ally calmly. Inside she was trembling. She had dreaded the day something like this came out.

Ally picked up the phone and called Rich. He didn't seem surprised and readily agreed to the meeting.

Fifteen minutes later, they were all sitting together in Rich's office. Grace refused to look directly at Ally.

"I want everyone here to read the paper in front of them. It's from the employee handbook and it states the agency's policies on discrimination and harassment," stated Rich. "I hope we can resolve any issues here, without taking this up with the boss."

"If Ally wants to dress as a woman, that's HIS problem. Why inflict it on the rest of us?" stated Grace angrily. "I would like to use the ladies room without fear of a man walking in."

So much for preliminaries, though Ally.

"If you must know, Grace, I'm not dressing as a woman. I'm legally a woman. I am transgendered and undergoing transition," explained Ally calmly. She knew that it was probably pointless to explain this to her.

Grace still wouldn't look at Ally. "What-ever!"

"As for using the same restroom, trust me I'm only in there to do my business and leave. Besides, it is my right to use it," continued Ally.

"What about MY rights!" exclaimed Grace to Rich. "I intend to file a complaint with the human relations council. It's not right that he is walking around mocking the rest of us real women!"

"Grace, I want you to think this over. Your complaint has no merit. Ally's situation was known when she was hired and has no bearing on her ability to do her job. I will warn you right now that, if you harass or create problems, you'll be the one in trouble."

Grace stared at him. She could tell that he was serious. "What has happened to this place? Fine! But I request to be taken off this case, immediately!"

Rich nodded. "That would be for the best. Any objections?" He looked around the room at Ally, Bob, and Donna. No objections were raised.

"Grace, I want to see you back in my office in thirty minutes. You may leave now," ordered Rich.

Without a word, she got up and walked out.

There was a long moment of silence in the room. No one knew what to say. Bob finally spoke. "I have a good person in mind to replace her. I think Maria is ready to move up to a case like this."

Rich nodded. "Good choice. Why don't you go and brief her and introduce Donna to her? Also make sure Grace gives you all her files and notes."

Donna and Bob got up to leave. "Ally, I just want to say you have nothing to prove to me. I'll work with you any day!" stated Bob.

Donna nodded in agreement.

"Thanks. I know, but I appreciate you telling me anyway," replied Ally. She could feel her emotions getting really shaky, and the last thing she wanted to do was start crying.

Rich and Ally were now alone. "I'm sorry. I never would have thought Grace would pull a stunt like that."

"So, what will you do about her?" asked Ally.

"I'll put a warning letter in her file. It will tell her that she has been told not to make any problems and that she read and signed the employee rights statement. That way, if she does cause any more problems, I will have ammo against her," explained Rich. "I'll send you a copy."

Ally agreed. It's how she would have handled it.

"I guess I knew that this sort of thing might happen, but knowing and experiencing it are two different things," confessed Ally.

"You need a drink?" offered Rich. He opened his desk drawer and pulled out a bottle of high quality whiskey

"Isn't that against agency rules?" smiled Ally.

"It's for snake bites," he quipped

"Snakes? It's winter if you didn't notice," laughed Ally

"Make that exposure. I use it as preventive medicine!" laughed Rich

Ally extended her mug. "I'll take a drop in my coffee. By the way, thanks!"

Rich poured a dollop of whiskey in her mug. He noticed she was trembling slightly.

"No problem, Kid," he replied, as he poured a little in his own coffee. "To exposure!" He held his mug out in a toast.

"And to snakes," replied Ally. Their mugs clinked together. She took a long sip of the fortified coffee. It did feel good. "I need to get back to work. Thanks again, Rich."

Ally got up and walked out. She hoped this was over, but she doubted it. She couldn't wait to get home and be in Carol's arms.

 

Chapter Nine

Saturday evening Carol was busy in the kitchen of their townhouse. She was preparing her favorite recipe for chicken breast sautéed in a red wine sauce. Ally was preparing the salad when the doorbell rang. The kitchen in their home was large. That was one of the main selling points for Carol. In addition to the counter space, there was a separate island in the center of the kitchen. There was also enough room for a large oak table. Carol and Ally rarely used their dining room and ate most of their meals in the kitchen

"I'll get it," announced Ally.

Ally greeted Steve, Maggie, and Beth.

"Welcome to our home," announced Ally. "Carol's in the kitchen."

Ally took their coats and, when she returned, she found they had all migrated to the kitchen. This didn't bother Carol, as she viewed the kitchen as the heart of the home. Ally asked everyone what they wanted to drink. Carol and Maggie wanted wine and Steve wanted a beer. Beth settled for a Diet Coke. Ally selected a bottle of white wine and took it to Steve.

"I hate to bother you, but I can't quite open a bottle yet," apologized Ally, as she held out the bottle of wine and the corkscrew.

"No problem, Ally," replied Steve.

Carol and Maggie were hanging over the stove discussing the meal. Beth helped Ally with the salad, and Steve watched and made snide comments. It was as if they had known each other forever.

"I know you're both in the agency, but what department?" asked Carol

"Spec-Ops," replied Maggie, after glancing at Steve.

Ally and Carol looked at each other and nodded knowingly. Spec-Ops, or Special Operations, was never officially discussed, although most agents knew it existed.

"So we won't be trading office stories tonight after all," quipped Ally

They all laughed.

Still, they all managed to talk about work without violating national security. Ally noticed that Beth didn't seem bored with the conversation. In fact, she was very interested in everything they talked about and asked intelligent questions. Beth seemed so much more mature than a seventeen-year-old, thought Ally.

"Are you two going to the dinner next week?" asked Maggie.

"Of course. We wouldn't miss it!" stated Carol.

The dinner was the annual agency formal dinner. The joke was that you had better be dead if you missed it. Or, at the very least, mortally wounded!

"I'm looking forward to seeing Steve in a tux!" exclaimed Maggie

"Just as long he doesn't do his cheesy James Bond imitation," quipped Beth.

Steve put his hand over his heart. "Oh! That hurts!"

"I don't mind him doing it, it's just that ALL the men are doing it!" added Maggie.

That caused more laughter.

Dinner was a smashing success. In keeping with the bonding feel of the evening, it was held at the kitchen table. After dinner they all retreated to the living room for coffee and dessert. It was a raw cold night out and everyone appreciated the fire in the fireplace, even if it was just a gas fire.

Maggie appreciated Ally's offer of showing Beth her office. She knew that Beth wanted to enter the family business and she felt that Ally's job was much safer than Spec-Ops. She knew Ally had been injured, but at least she was alive, and not all agents in her department needed field training or experience. Spec-Ops had lost three agents the previous year. Maggie wanted a more intellectual job for Beth, even though Beth craved the action and excitement of being a field agent. She smiled at the idea that she barely thought of the fact that a little over two years ago, Beth had been a man.

After the Williams left, Carol and Ally discussed the evening. Carol had put one of her Van Morrison CDs on. Van was soon singing about what a marvelous night it was for a moon-dance. It was good late night music, thought Ally.

"I'm glad you invited them, Ally. That was a lovely evening," remarked Carol, as they cleaned up.

"I like them too. I'm just a little surprised they have a daughter that old," commented Ally, as she washed the dishes.

"Maggie told me she adopted Beth two years ago. Her original parents were killed in a plane crash," explained Carol. "Maggie and Steve only married last year."

Ally stood there for a second. "Plane crash? That sounds like a cover. I wonder what they're hiding?" remarked Ally.

"You should talk about hiding things!" quipped Carol.

Ally laughed, although she sensed that they were hiding something. However it didn't really matter, as it was apparent that they loved Beth and she loved them.

"Well, they seemed comfortable enough about us. Do you think they know I'm transgendered?" asked Ally.

Carol shrugged her shoulders. "Does it matter?"

They finished cleaning up and then slipped into bed for some great sex.

***********

Later that night, Steve and Maggie were holding a similar conversation at their kitchen table about Carol and Ally. Beth was asleep.

"I must admit that she passes very well," remarked Maggie. "I also like her a lot."

"I agree. From what I've heard, both are good agents. Carol is working that bank robbery gang, and Robert Ledyard couldn't say enough good things about Ally," stated Steve.

"That's a good recommendation to have!" acknowledged Maggie

"Have you known many transgendered women?" asked Steve.

"I had a friend from college who transitioned. She's much happier as a woman."

"You have any issues about Beth hanging around Ally?" asked Steve. "I don't."

"Neither do I. Did you notice how Ally and Beth got along? I think it would be good for Beth to have a role model, other than us," Maggie replied.

"I know what you mean. I'm not keen on Beth's involvement in the past cases. But I must admit she's good at it," stated Steve.

Maggie reluctantly nodded in agreement.

 

Chapter Ten

Monday morning, Ally was making her rounds of the office. She told her staff about Beth coming for a visit. She told them her parents were agents, but left out the Spec-Ops part.

Back in her office was a copy of the warning letter to Grace. Ally wondered if it would work or would be like one of those useless restraining orders. She continued through her mail and found a sealed envelope. The envelope was internal and lacked a return office code. Inside was a hunting knife catalog. She stared at it and felt her anger rising. This was so stupid and juvenile. She bounced back and forth between ignoring it or reporting it. There was no proof that Grace had sent it either. Ignoring it would be the easiest thing to do, but the exact opposite of the advice she would give to someone else. She decided to call Rich.

"Good morning, Ally," he greeted.

"Rich, can you come down here? I need to talk to you," replied Ally in a very serious tone.

"Oh. I'll be there in a few minutes," he replied.

He arrived ten minutes later and looked disgusted when he saw the catalog. "What a stupid thing to do. What do you want to do?"

Ally filled his coffee mug. "Nothing for now. I just wanted someone else to know about it. What does she expect to accomplish by doing something like this?" asked Ally.

"She's frustrated. Trust me, you're just the latest on her list. Grace could be a good agent, but she cannot see her faults and blames everyone else for her lack of success. If this keeps up, I am going to recommend she see one of the therapists," added Rich.

"Do you think she'll escalate this?" asked Ally

Rich nodded as he sipped his coffee.

"I see," replied Ally

"Keep me informed," reminded Rich.

"I will," replied Ally. It was a crappy way to start a week.

Ally filed the catalog and went back to work.

Right after lunch, Maggie swung by with Beth. That cheered up Ally a lot. Beth was so different from the average teen.

"This is fantastic!" exclaimed Beth as she saw the operations room.

Ally smiled at Beth's reaction. She was like a kid in a candy store, thought Ally.

"So you guys actually make up teens and use them as lures for criminals?" asked Beth.

Ally handed a folder to Beth. "Yes. Here's the form we use to create a bait."

Beth began to study it. The original form that Ally had created was now several pages long. "Bait?"

Ally smiled. "That's our name for the character."

"And do your agents always play the bait?" asked Beth.

"Not always. Depends on the case. Many of the characters we portray are all over the country. We work alongside the local police departments," explained Ally.

"I'm glad that your department is open-minded. I see that you portray both gay and straight teens of both sexes," noted Ally.

"Don't forget transgendered teens!" added Donna, as she walked up to both of them.

"Cool!" stated Beth.

Ally gave Donna a stern look. "Beth this is Donna. She's working on a few cases, if you want to watch her. Donna, Beth's parents are agents and she's interested in our line of work."

"You don't mind, Donna?" asked Beth.

Donna shrugged her shoulders. "I don't mind an audience. Come on, Beth, I'll show you what we do."

"I'll be back in a little bit, Beth," announced Ally. She knew that Beth was in excellent hands.

She went back to her office and reviewed a few status reports. She would talk with Donna later on about the missing preppies investigation. Ally got up to use the restroom. She arrived outside the one she always used and found that it was blocked by Michelle.

"What're you doing out of the meat locker?" quipped Ally.

"Actually, I was looking for you," replied Michelle.

"Okay. We can go back to my office, I just have to make a quick stop," stated Ally.

Michelle shook her head. "Not in there."

Ally stared at her. "What's wrong?"

"You don't want to go in there, Ally. Trust me."

"I appreciate your concern, but I need to see," replied Ally.

She walked in, followed by Michelle. On each stall door was a sign. There was a red circle with a diagonal line, crossing out a stick figure. The stick figure had both breasts and a penis. Ally stared at them and shook her head.

"Whoever did it put them up in all the women's rooms on this and the next floor. Maintenance is removing them. HR has been notified. I'm sorry, I didn't want you to see them," explained Michelle.

"Did anyone see who did it?" asked Ally. Her temper was rising.

"Unfortunately, no. But I think we both know who did it," replied Michelle. "Grace was blabbing to everyone in the coffee lounge about you."

"Without proof, there is nothing we can do," explained Ally.

"She's just making everyone angry at her," added Michelle.

"Look, I've got the daughter of some other agents here in my operations center. Do me a favor and get these signs down quickly," asked Ally.

"Sure thing." Then Michelle hugged Ally.

By the time Ally got back to her office, her phone was ringing off the hook.

"Agent Burns speaking."

"Ally, I need to see you," replied Robert Ledyard.

Robert had been Ally's supervisor during the MNF killer investigation. Since then he had been promoted to her section head.

Five minutes later Ally was sitting in his office. Grace and Rich were also present. Robert didn't look pleased.

"I think I know what is going on around here and it will stop. I just sent an e-mail out to everyone in our section that this sort of behavior will not be tolerated," stated Robert, as he held up one of the signs.

"Excuse me, but I had nothing to do with those. I also know that I am not the only one who doesn't want to work with him," complained Grace.

Ally glared at Grace.

"Grace, you were warned not to refer to Ally as a male," reiterated Rich.

"Yes, sir," replied Grace meekly.

"Ally, you have anything you want to add?" asked Robert.

"I know that Grace doesn't care for me or understand what I'm going through, and I believe her when she says that there are others who side with her. But, I have a legal right to do my job and to be free of harassment. If this sort of …stuff continues and the person responsible is discovered, I will not hesitate to seek that person's immediate suspension. I may even seek civil damages against the individual. I don't want to create a distraction, but I am not going to be a doormat either," stated Ally in a firm voice.

Robert nodded. He was proud that Ally wasn't about to back down.

"Ally, Rich, you may go. Grace, please stay. We need to have a talk," stated Robert.

"I hope that ends it." remarked Ally outside the door.

"That makes two of us," added Rich.

Back in her office, she got a call from Maggie. She would be delayed and Steve was out of town; she asked if Ally would keep Beth occupied a bit longer.

"Here's a suggestion, I'll take her home for dinner. You can pick her up there," offered Ally.

"That's so kind. Thank you, Ally," stated Maggie.

Ally also got a call from Robert. He said that he was calling in an expert on workplace relations for dealing with transgendered workers, with special emphasis on legal issues. She would give mandatory training to the department.

"I don't want to be a problem," stated Ally.

"Ally, you're not the problem. The person or persons doing this are the problem Besides you'll like her. Her name is Marlene Hamilton. I met her at a conference a few years ago," explained Robert

Maybe he was right thought Ally. Education was never a bad thing.

Ally returned to the operations room and found Beth thoroughly enjoying herself. Donna was explaining how they used multiple agents to introduce a bait into the chat rooms.

"So, are you bored yet?" joked Ally

"Bored? No way! This is great," exclaimed an excited Beth.

"To be honest, I feel the same way," replied Ally. "By the way, your mom called and she has been delayed. So you'll be coming over to my place for dinner."

"That's great. Thanks, Ally," smiled Beth.

"I have to wrap up a few things. I'll come back and get you in thirty minutes," stated Ally.

As she walked out of the operations center, she looked over her shoulder and smiled as she saw Donna and Beth were again hovering over the computer.

Ally was just finishing up some administrivia when the phone rang. It was Carol.

"We just had another robbery. I'll be home late tonight," announced Carol.

"Where are you now?" asked Ally.

"We're right outside College Park," replied Carol.

"So, they're sticking to the Beltway," remarked Ally.

The last three robberies were all in the DC area.

"Looks like it. I'll call you later."

"Okay. Be safe! I love you, Carol!" added Ally, her voice almost cracking.

"Thanks Ally. I love you too," replied Carol. She was a little confused by Ally's response. She wasn't usually this emotional. She called up Rich to see if anything was wrong.

 

Chapter Eleven

Beth was sitting next to Ally as they worked their way through the rush hour traffic. Light snow began to fall. Both were very tired of winter and longed for warmer weather. Ally told Beth that Carol wouldn't be there to join them for dinner. Beth nodded, she said she was used to that at home.

"Sometimes we go weeks between having all of us together for dinner," stated Beth.

"What do you say to some Mexican food? We've got a pretty good takeout place near my home," asked Ally.

"I haven't had good Mexican food in so long!" exclaimed Beth.

"It's the best that I've found since I left California," promised Ally.

"You're from California? Where?" asked Beth.

"I worked for a police department in Orange County before I was recruited into the agency," replied Ally.

"I spent some time in San Diego," remarked Beth.

"Nice city," added Ally

Beth smiled softly and nodded.

Ally immediately noticed a change in Beth's demeanor. "Oh, I'm sorry. Is that where you lived, before the accident?"

Beth nodded. "It's okay, Ally."

They arrived at the Mexican restaurant and picked out enough food to feed a small army.

"What can I say? It all looked so good," smiled Beth.

Ally laughed in agreement. Maybe a feast would be a good way to drive away her anger over the harassment.

As they approached the house, a floral delivery van pulled up.

"Excuse me, are you Ally Burns?" asked the driver.

"Yes, I am," answered Ally.

He came running up with what looked like a large bouquet of flowers. Ally signed for the flowers.

"Just put the food in the kitchen, Beth," instructed Ally. She set the flowers down and opened up the protective wrapping. They were gorgeous and their aroma instantly filled the room. Ally read the card and fought to hold back tears.

My Sweet Ally,

Just a reminder how much I love and care about you!

Love,

Carol

Ally felt a tear run down her cheek.

"Everything okay?" asked Beth.

"Yes, Beth. Things couldn't be better!" replied Ally, wiping the tears away.

They set out the feast on the kitchen table and dug in. Ally was amazed at how much Beth ate.

"How do you manage to stay so slim?" asked Ally in amazement.

"I was blessed with a high metabolism!" exclaimed Beth with a laugh.

"I hope you never lose it!" smiled Ally.

Halfway through dinner, Beth looked over at Ally. "I must admit that after seeing what you and your team do, I'll feel more secure online and at the same time a little creeped out!" She then laughed.

Ally nodded. "Think of us as the lifeguard. We see everything, but we only jump in to save people."

Beth nodded. "May I ask how you got involved in the serial killer case. I read all about it in the news. That seems a little out of your department's tasking."

Ally laughed. "I can tell that you really are from an agency family! I got involved when I happened to see one of the victims down in Atlanta. I played a hunch and was assigned to the case."

"Dad said that your wound was very serious. He was shot two years ago, but he recovered pretty quickly," remarked Beth. Steve had been shot in the shoulder during her initial mission to meet Dr. Martz.

Ally smiled. There was a comfort level developing between the two of them that allowed for such personal comments. She sensed it from the first time she saw Beth.

"I go to therapy a few times a week. For both my mind and body," replied Ally.

"PTS?" asked Beth.

"Yes," she wasn't ashamed of it. In fact, therapy was now mandatory for all agents hurt in the line of duty.

"Me too. I still see Jenna every few weeks," admitted Beth.

"Jenna? She's my therapist too!" exclaimed Ally.

"She's the best!" concurred Beth. "I see her about my….life changes."

Ally nodded and figured Beth was talking about the death of her family.

"May I ask why you were selected to play the bait for the serial killer case?' asked Beth.

"I wasn't selected. I volunteered. Actually, that's not right either, I sort of insisted on it," stated Ally.

Beth stared at Ally and a small knowing smile broke out on Beth's face.

Before Beth could speak, Ally nodded and interrupted. "That's right, Beth, I'm transgendered myself." She figured there was no sense in keeping it a secret. Beth was too smart and would have figured it out on her own anyway.

"That's so cool! I think that is fantastic!" exclaimed Beth. She got up and ran over to hug Ally.

Ally hung onto Beth for several moments. "Thank you, Beth! I really needed that hug!"

Beth sat down and looked at Ally with a confused look.

"I have a co-worker making some waves about my life. The last thing I wanted to do tonight was come home to an empty home. Being with you has really raised my spirits," confessed Ally. She felt a bit strange pouring out her soul to a teenager, but Beth was different!

"So your co-workers know?" asked Beth.

"I don't make a big deal about it, but yes they know. When the agency first checked me out, I was still living as a male, although I wasn't happy," replied Ally.

"Are you happy now?" asked Beth.

"All things considered, yes, very much so," answered Ally.

"That's great. Personally, I don't see what the big deal is, why should anyone besides you care what gender you are?"

"That's a great attitude, Beth."

Beth smiled. She didn't feel that Ally was quite ready for the truth.

"I take it that you always wanted to be a woman," stated Beth.

"Yes, but it's hard to describe. I tried really hard to be a guy, but I always felt different. I now know that this is the right path for me," explained Ally.

"I know one thing, your staff loves you! Donna couldn't stop talking about you," announced Beth.

"She's a fine agent and a good friend," remarked Ally.

"Whoever this person is who is harassing you is a narrow minded idiot!"

Ally laughed

Just then the doorbell rang. Ally checked through the peephole and saw Maggie standing there. She opened the door and greeted her.

"Come on in, Maggie," stated Ally.

"I'd love to Ally, but I need to get home. Thank you for looking after Beth."

"It was a pleasure! Beth and I had a great time."

"You ready to go, Beth?" asked Maggie.

"Sure. Thanks again, Ally, for the tour and for dinner," thanked Beth. She then gave Ally a big hug. "May I come back to your office another time?"

"Absolutely!" remarked Ally.

Ally watched them leave and then closed the door. It only took a few minutes to clean up. She was just making a mug of tea when the phone rang. It was Carol and she was on her way home and would be there in twenty minutes. Ally smiled. It wasn't such a bad day after all. She went into the living room, lit a fire, and turned on the stereo and waited for Carol to arrive.

On their way home, Maggie and Beth discussed their day.

"I really like Ally, Mom. I think it's so cool about her situation. I feel so lucky that I was programmed to accept my change. I can't imagine living a life full of duality. It must be awful!"

"Ally's also lucky that the she is doing this now. When I joined the agency, it would have been very difficult for her. We weren't as enlightened. And from what you told me, some still haven't evolved."

"I also like the job Ally does. It's a pretty cool way to fight crime."

Maggie nodded. I hope you go into something like that, she thought.

To be continued

  

  

  

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