Sam and Vanessa

by Teddie S

 

Part Three

A New Beginning

 

Sam sat at the table, and looked at his mom, and Aunt Mi. You could see the puzzlement on his face, as he thought 'What did I do?'

Miyuki started, "Sam. Your mom and I are glad to see that you and Vanessa are friends again. We both hope that you come out of your funk. But, what we really want to talk to you about, are your clothes."

"My clothes!" Sam asked.

"Yes. Your girl's clothes."

"Huh?"

"Sam. We're not blind. When you put that bra on last week, just as easily as a girl would. Your mom got to thinking. And, looking back at a number of things, we think that you're a crossdresser. Just like I was before I became Miyuki."

"Ah . . . "

"Don't worry, honey. We're not mad or upset. But, we just wanted you to know that we knew. And, because we understand it, we support you. We know it's part of you, and it won't go away.", Masumi added.

"Thanks. I guess I should have told you guys about it. Toshi showed me a number of web sites that had good information about crossdressing. She's known for a long time. I use to borrow her things, and she never said anything. She actually gave me a bra and panty set as a gift." He then went on to tell them the story of how Toshi had dressed him up a few weeks ago, to try and talk him into joining the girl band. How, it felt really good to dress is the soft clothes. And, then how it helped him to relax when Sobo had died.

Masumi and Miyuki looked at each other and smiled. Then, Miyuki said, "We have another secret to tell you. And, the only other person that you should tell, at least for now, is Toshi."

He looked at his mother, and Aunt Mi, and said, "Another family secret?"

"Yes, honey.", Masumi said, "Another family secret."

Miyuki started, "When your Sofu Matsushita found out that I was a crossdresser. And, believe me it really didn't take her long to figure it out. She took your Oda Sachiko, Masumi, and I aside, told us that she knew about me, and told us another family secret. That your Sobo was also a crossdresser. He only dressed in private, as he knew he wasn't passable. And, Sofu was the only one to ever see him dressed. It was his way to relax.

"On one trip to Japan, before your mother and I were married. Your mother introduced Mishelle to Sobo, Sofu, and Oda Sachiko. Sofu knew that I was coming down dressed, as did Sachiko. But, when she introduced me to Sobo, and he figured out who I really was, he almost had a heart attack.

"Your mother doesn't know this. But, when he and I took a walk in the garden, that night. He said, that he was happy that I was happy with who I was, and that I looked so good. And, that he was very happy that I made his daughter so happy. That he wasn't really happy that I was going to take her away from the family, and Japan. But, that her happiness was all that was important, and he could live with her being gone, as long as she was happy. And, it was really at that time, in his own way, that he gave me his permission to marry your mother."

Sam saw a little tear in his mother's eyes. And, she said, "Sobo really said that to you?"

"Yes. He knew our feelings towards each other, before I think we really did. As did your mother"

"Sam.", Masumi said, "There are a couple of things you need to be aware of. First, be very careful who finds out that you dress. There are a lot of people who will never understand that it's part of you. And, they will go out of their way to make your life miserable. They don't understand, that it's part of your makeup, your psyche. That there is no cure for it.

"And, when you find that person, that is your soul mate, your life partner. Be sure and tell them about your other side, your feminine side, before you make a commitment. Hiding this from a loved one, and having them finds out that you have a secret from them, is worse than telling them right up front. Before the commitment is made."

"I wish," Miyuki added, "that I had known all this before I met your mother. But, I was lucky. She understood me very well, almost too well."

"Thank you.", Sam said, "You've really opened my eyes to a lot of things."

"Honey. You are welcome to wear any clothes that you are comfortable with. Everyone in this house understands, and supports you. We knew that Toshi knew. We had a long talk with her when you walked Vanessa home. The only thing she doesn't know about, is Sobo.

"Please, honey. If there is ever anything you want to talk about, don't hesitate to come to us. I know it's hard, at times, to talk to your parents. But, we're here for you."

"Thank you guys. You are the greatest."

Sam got up and gave Masumi, and Miyuki big hugs. The two girls said, "Good night, honey. See you in the morning."

"Good night. I love your guys."

Sam walked out of the kitchen, and went up stairs. He saw that Toshi's bedroom light was still on, and he knocked on her door.

"Come on in, little brother."

Sam opened the door, and said, "How did you know it was I?"

She just smiled at him. "What happened?"

"Mom and Aunt Mi told me that they knew about my crossdressing, and that they had a long talk with you about it, when I walked Nessa home."

"Yea. They knew almost everything before I told them."

"So, and I know the answer to this, you don't have a problem with it?"

"No. You know I don't. But . . . "

"But, what?"

"No more borrowing my clothes."

"Huh?"

"Time to get your own. Besides, your own will fit you better. And it will save wear and tear on mine. You get to go shopping."

"I don't know about shopping."

"No problem. I'll go with you."

"Oh. Mom didn't tell you about Sobo, did she?"

"What about Sobo?"

"That he was a crossdresser."

"No way."

"Way." And, Sam went on to tell Toshi what Miyuki and their mom had told him.

"Wow. That beats all. Sobo a crossdresser. I'd never had known."

"I was surprised too."

"What about Nessa?"

"What do you mean?"

"How are you two doing?"

"Fine. I think things may be back on track. But, time will tell. I think she really wants to be at least a good friend."

"From what she told me, she wants it to be more than that. And, I'm glad. She really did miss you. And, I honestly missed her as a friend."

"She told you that?"

"Yes. She really does care about you. But, if she ever hurts you again, she'll have me to answer to. And, I told her as much. Are you going to tell her about your other side?"

"Easy, sis. Lets let this go at it own speed. I want to see where it's going, before I tell anyone."

"I know where it's going."

"Sure you do. Goodnight sis."

"Goodnight, little sister. When are we going shopping? Girls love to shop."

"We'll talk in the morning."

Sam turned, closed Toshi's door, and walked to his room. Walking into his room, he turned on the light, and on his bed was a satin nightgown and pantie set. He shook his head, and just said, "Toshi."

The following morning he laid in bed, yes, dressed in the panties, and nightgown, trying to sort out his feelings for Vanessa, and his feminine side. Vanessa was on his mind right now more than anything. He got up, took off the nightgown, but left the panties on. Slipped on a pair of shorts, and a t-shirt. And, went down for a late breakfast.

Toshi was the only one sitting at the table, as Masumi and Miyuki had left already. Toshi said, "Did you enjoy your last Monday sleep in?"

"Huh?"

"School starts next Monday. Remember?"

"Oh yea. Right. By the way, thanks for the present."

"Present? What present?"

"The satin nightgown and pantie set."

"Not me."

"Mom? Aunt Mi?"

"Maybe. Aunt Mi disappeared upstairs for a few minutes after she, mom, and I had been talking for a while, and just before you got home."

"Hmm."

Sam fixed a little breakfast, and sat down with Toshi. He was in deep thought, and she was ready to bug him a little. So, she said, "We going shopping, little sister?"

"No."

"Why not?", she said with a fake little pout.

"I still haven't gotten this all straightened around."

"Well then lets go see Nessa?"

"Sis! Back off a bit. That's something else that I have to figure out."

"Sorry."

"I think that I'll take Nessa to a movie or something today. And, just see what happens."

The movie date started out a string of daily meetings over the next week. Sam had dinner at Vanessa's twice that week. Vanessa and Sam, became the couple they had been prior to Sam's grandfathers death. But, they were now older and wiser. Maybe? The three words that had split them up, had yet to be repeated by either one.

The school year started, there last year in high school, and things went well for all three. Sam was accepted to Georgetown as pre-law. Toshi was accepted at M.I.T.. Someone was impressed with her mathematics and computer skills. And, Vanessa, surprise, surprise, accepted an offer from Georgetown. As the year progressed, Sam and Vanessa grew closer and closer. Everyone knew they were a couple.

One cool early November evening Sam and Vanessa, were walking through their favorite park. They got close to their favorite old oak tree, and Vanessa was a little cold. So, they stopped, so that Sam could put his jacket around her shoulders. And, as happens many times with this couple, this little pause in their walk turned into a kiss, a long kiss. And, the kiss turned into a long hug.

Sam whispered, "You know. Every time I hug you, I get a feeling that I just can't describe. It feels warm and wonderful. You know something, Nessa? I love you."

He felt her hug him tighter, and she whispered, "You don't know how long I've wanted you to say that to me. Sam, I love you." What Sam was feeling became stronger. He took her by the shoulders, and pushed her back a little, so that he could look at her. She was crying.

"Don't cry."

"I. . . I. . . Can't help it. I'm just so happy."

He pulled her to him, and kissed her again. A longer, deeper kiss. And, again, a very long hug. They broke the hug, Sam wiped her tears away, and they started walking again. She said, "You know. I'm not cold any longer." He smiled at her, and he wasn't cold either. And, they finished their walk back to her house. Again they stood on the porch, kissing. Her mother had learned, that this went on every time they were together, and he was dropping her off. So, when she heard a noise on the porch, she would look out the window, without turning the light on. And, if it was them, she would just smile, and leave them alone. Tonight Vanessa didn't want to let him go, but finally did. With tears in her eyes, she watched him until he was out of sight.

Vanessa's mother walked up behind her, and asked, "Honey. Is everything all right?"

"Everything's perfect."

"Why the tears?"

"I'm just that happy."

Sam walked home, almost in a fog. When he got there, he found Toshi sitting at the computer, and he sat down on the side chair, to talk to her.

She looked up at him, and said, "You told her tonight. Didn't you?"

"Told her what?"

"That you loved her."

"How did you know? Never mind. I know, the twin thing."

She smiled at him. Then said, "Did you mean it?"

"Have I ever said anything I didn't mean?"

"No. Just checking. And. . ."

"And. What?"

"What did she say?"

"You tell me? Miss sees all."

"By the tear stains on your shirt, she was either very sad, or very happy. And, I'd bet on happy. And, I'd also bet that she told you the same thing."

He looked at his shirt, there sure were tear stains, and said, "You're good."

"I'm happy for you guys. Are we ever going shopping? You need more than two nightgowns, two panties, and one bra."

"Maybe."

"I know a good place."

"Where?"

"It's not far. And, they are very friendly to crossdressers."

"And, how did you find this?"

"How else?"

"I know. The Internet."

She just smiled at him. Then got up, and gave him big hug. And, said, "I am really glad that you and Nessa got back together."

 

Shopping Again

Toshi finally got Sam to go shopping for clothes. She had found a shop, which if you went at opening or closing time, they would help a guy get fitted for women's clothing. The twins left home at around nine, Toshi was carrying a bag that Sam was too nervous to even notice. They caught a Metro Rail train, and took it to the stop they needed. Then walked about three blocks, and found the shop, The Helpful Boutique. But, they were about five minutes early, and Sam was really nervous. Toshi tried the door, it opened, she grabbed Sam's hand, and led him into the store. There was only one clerk in the store, and her tag read 'Mary, Store Manager'.

Toshi said, "Hello. We understand that you are very friendly to crossdressers, and will help them find the properly fitting women's clothes."

"Yes, Miss. We are more than willing to help the male find his female side."

"Great. This is Sam. And, he's looking for just about everything."

"Hi Sam. Don't be nervous. I work with about a dozen gentlemen every week. And, all my customers leave here happy. And, many are repeat customers."

"He's really been dressing for a long time, in borrowed clothes. So, we figured that it was time for him to have his own wardrobe."

"So, your boyfriend has been borrowing your clothes, Miss?"

"Borrowing my clothes, yes. Boyfriend, no. A twin brother."

"A twin brother. Lets see what we can do for him. Come on back to a changing room, and we'll take some measurements."

The twins followed Mary to one of the changing rooms. They were large, nicely decorated rooms, with a couple of arm chairs, and mirrors on all the walls.

"Sam. Strip down to your shorts, and will see what sizes you need. What are we looking for?"

"Ah. I'm not sure.", Sam replied, as he removed his clothes.

"He's a little shy about this. He has a couple of pair of panties, one bra, two night gowns, and a kimono or two.", Toshi answered for him.

"A couple kimonos'. That's interesting. But, we really are starting from the ground up. Aren't we?", Mary said, as she started measuring, and writing down her findings. When she was done, she said, "I'll be right back." She walked out of the changing room, and was back in five minutes with a number of things.

"I figure that a 38C bra will work nicely for you. Here are half a dozen really nice ones. You are fairly thin for a guy, so these panties should work well for you. Here is a pair of pantyhose to put on. It's a shame that you don't have breast forms."

Toshi said, "We do. They're right here. He used them at a costume party earlier this year.", and she pulled the forms out of the bag she was carrying. Sam was a little shocked. To say the least.

"Oh. He went in drag?"

"Yes. He was part of a Japanese all girl band."

"That would have been cute to see."

"Oh. It was. The other three were real girls."

Sam was starting to get really embarrassed.

"Lets put them in the bras as he tries them, and it will help us see which bras work best. And then when we try on clothes, it will help to see if the fit is correct."

Sam tried on each of the bras, and Mary had made some good choices as to size, and style. Sam liked three of them, and they looked good on him. They set two aside, and he wore one. He also wore a pair of the panties, and pantyhose. Next Mary and Toshi went out into the store, and picked out a few skirts, blouses, and dresses for Sam to try on. Also, by this time, another clerk had arrived, and there was another customer in the store.

They took the clothes back to Sam, and he tried on everything they brought. He was starting to get into this, and relaxed. He just loved the feeling of the clothes, and how they looked on him. When all was said, and done, they had picked out three blouses, two skirts, a pair of shorts, three bras, a dozen panties, six pair of pantyhose, and the proverbial little black dress.

Sam changed back into his boy things, but left on the panties, and pantyhose. And, as he, Toshi, and Mary, were carrying everything to the cash register, it hit him, and he said, "Toshi. Who's paying for all this?"

"Mom gave me her credit card this morning, and said, 'Have fun.'"

Mary turned, and looked at Sam, then Toshi, and said, "Your mother knows?"

"Yep.", Toshi responded, "And, so does our aunt. They both support Sam. Mom's a research psychologist. And, she really understands crossdressers."

Mary looked at Sam, and said, "You are one luck guy. I have some customers that would kill to have their wives understand. And, you have a whole family that understands and supports you."

As they were standing at the cash register, Toshi asked Mary, "I know you don't carry wigs, and shoes. But, do you have anyone that you recommend?"

"Sure. There is a wig store just around the corner. They really have some very nice wigs, and will style them while you're there. When you go out the door, turn right, turn right at the next intersection, and it's the third store."

"That's convenient."

"Very. Now, what kind of shoes?"

"What do you think Sam? Something with a short heel, maybe a flat?"

"I don't want anything too high. So, something like that one black pair you have with the strap. And, maybe a sandal of some sort."

"Got just the place for you.", Mary said. "They are just as friendly to crossdressers as we are." And, she handed Sam a business card for the Shoe Tree, which was about half a mile away.

The twins paid for the purchases, and it wasn't cheap. They thanked Mary for her great help, and she said, "Be sure to come back, and see us."

Toshi said, "I think he will."

Sam just smiled.

The twins walked around the corner to the wig shop, and were greeted by the shop owner, Karen. They told her that Mary had sent them, and that they were looking for a wig for Sam. She looked closely at Sam's face, had him sit in one of the fitting booths, and went to retrieve a couple of wigs.

When she came back, she placed a wig cap over Sam's head, and tucked all his hair under it. She then carefully placed the first wig on his head, and brushed it out. She turned Sam around so that Toshi could see, and said, "With a little styling, that would look good on him. Now, lets try this one." She removed the first wig, and put on the second. Both Toshi and Sam said no to that one. She then tried a third, and a fourth.

Sam said, "You know. That first one was really nice."

"You're right.", Toshi said, "Can we try that one again?"

"No problem.", Karen said as she put the first one back on, and brushed it out. She then pulled out a book of hair styles, found one, and showed it to the twins, saying, "This is what I had in mind."

Toshi smiled, and said, "I love it!"

Sam said, "Nice."

"I can style it for you, if you like. Or, you can take it to any beauty parlor. It's a human hair wig. And, I charge $25.00 for the styling, on top of the cost of the wig."

"Aren't those expensive?", Sam asked.

"Yes. But, properly taken care of, they last for ever. And, it looks so much better, and feels so much better, than a synthetic one does."

Sam looked at Toshi. And, she said, "I think it will look great on you. I'd go for it."

Sam said to Karen, "You heard her."

Karen smiled, and took Sam over to the area of the store that was set up as a beauty salon. She had him sit in the chair, and she went to work on the wig. When she was done, it looked like the picture that she had shown them. Toshi nodded yes. And, Sam, looking at himself in the mirror, liked what he saw.

"It looks like you guys are happy with it.", Karen said.

Sam answered, "Very much!"

"You know.", Karen added, "If you thinned your eyebrows a little, and arched them. You would really look like a girl."

"I've told him that.", Toshi said. "But, he's to timid to do it."

"If you take your time. And, change them over a period of weeks. No one will notice."

"I'll think about it.", Sam said.

Karen put the wig on a wig stand, told them how to care for it, placed it in a tall box, and then into a bag. They paid Karen for the wig, and her expert styling job. And, added a ten dollar tip. Karen said, "You guys come back any time."

"We will.", Toshi said.

As the twins started walking down the street, Toshi asked, "Have you had enough for today?"

"Why? Do you want to quit?"

"No. But, I though a guy, out doing girl shopping for the first time, might be getting tired."

"No way. I was really nervous when we walked into the boutique. But, Mary was so nice, that I just felt at home. And, Karen was also great. You girls do have fun shopping. Don't you?"

"Don't you mean, we girls?"

 

Sam smiled. They caught a bus that would take them close to the shoe store. Toshi watched Sam as he tried on about a dozen pair of shoes. She could only smile. Sam ended up buying two pairs of shoes, a pair of dark blue Mary Jane's with a two inch heel, and ankle strap. And, a pair of open toed sandals with a two inch heel.

They found a Metro Rail station only a block away, and caught the train home. Luckily, the train wasn't very full, and they were able to place their packages on a nearby seat. On the ride home they talked quietly.

Sam said, "Mom is going to kill us for spending so much money."

"No, she won't.", Toshi said, "When she gave me the credit card, she really did say 'Have fun.'"

"If you say so."

"I do."

"Why?"

"Why do I say so?"

"No. Why are you so supportive?"

"Little brother. First, I love you. Second, I understand you. And, that scares me. Third, mom has had a long talk with me about this. And, I understand it. Fourth, I love to see you happy. And last, but not least, I love you."

Sam sat there, and looked at Toshi. Finally saying, "Sis. I love you. And, you are the greatest."

"I love you too. Little sister."

When they got home, they carried all the packages up to Sam's room. And Toshi sat there while Sam put everything away. And, she was sure to tell him, "Remember, little sister, a girl is always very careful with her clothes. She hangs them up. She washes them when there dirty. She takes care of them."

"Yes, sis. I'll be careful. Thank you for finally taking me shopping. It was fun."

"I'm glad. When are we going again?"

"Soon."

"Are you going to get dressed?"

"Can't. I promised Nessa that we'd go to a movie this evening."

"Priorities."

"You're right."

We have neglected Toshi's love life so far. So, here is a little synopsis. Toshi had a number of boy friends, probably a dozen or more, starting in the seventh grade, none of which really flipped her switch. Until the current one. She met David at a computer symposium at the American University, where he's a Freshman. And, they hit it off. He's been over to dinner a couple of times, they have double dated with Sam and Vanessa a few times. And, so far everyone likes him.

 

Christmas

The first half of the year went by quickly, and Christmas was upon them. And, Grandma Gifford was coming, as usual. On Christmas day, Sam went over to Vanessa's for lunch, and to open presents there. Vanessa had gotten him a very nice sweater. They talked with her family for a while, and then it was off to his house for Christmas dinner. After dinner, they were sitting around opening presents, other than the one present that everyone was allowed to open in the morning. Vanessa's present from Sam wasn't in a very big box. She carefully opened it, and inside was a jewelry box. She opened it, inside was a very fine gold chain, and attached to the chain was a three diamond pendant. She look at it, and then at Sam. Sam could see a tear in the corner of her eye. He reached over, and gently wiped the tear away. When Miyuki and Masumi saw it, they looked at each other, and it brought back some very fond memories. It was almost identical to the one that Mike had bought Masumi a number of years age.

Grandma Gifford brought up the annual trip to Japan, and wondered if it was still on since the twins were starting college the next year. Masumi said, "Yes. My mother isn't doing too well, and we want to see her."

Toshi was the only one to catch the expression change on Vanessa's face. Toshi knew that the thought of Sam being gone for three weeks was making her a little sad. David was there, and said, "I didn't know you went back to Japan every year."

Toshi said, "Yes. It's kind of a family tradition. And, it helps keep the family ties strong. Plus, when Sam and I were young, it taught us something about the culture."

Toshi again looked at Vanessa, she was holding Sam's hand, and looking a little down trodden. Toshi then looked at Sam, and said, "Sam. Could I see you in the kitchen for a minute?"

"Sure. Excuse us for a minute."

The twins got up, and went into the kitchen. Sam asked, "What's up?"

"Did you see Nessa when grandma brought up the trip to Japan?"

"No. Why?"

"Her expression really changed. And, I know she was thinking about being away from you for three weeks. Is she getting too clingy?"

"No. The way she feels about us. She just doesn't want to be apart for any length of time."

"What, an hour."

"Toshi!"

"Sorry. I know you guys are in love. And, I shouldn't be that way. Actually I could sense her feelings change when she realized that you were going to be gone."

"I should have, but I saw David's face change a little too."

"Oh?"

"Yep."

"He did plan on taking some summer classes to be here, instead of going home for the summer. He wanted to spend time with me since I'll be at M.I.T. next year."

"Hmm."

"What?"

"I had a thought."

"What?"

"Well. Nessa's parents were going to give her a car for graduation. But, she told them she didn't want one. Which kind of shocked them, and me. They asked her what she wanted, and she didn't really know. And, I don't think she's come up with anything yet."

"And?"

"What if Nessa and David went to Japan with us this year?"

Toshi's eyes got very big, her smile was ear to ear, and her arms went around her brother neck in a big hug. She said, "Brother, you are a genius!"

Just then the kitchen door opened, Masumi walked in, and said, "Kids. It's not nice to be gone this long, not to mention the private talk."

"Sorry mom.", Toshi said, "But, we need to talk to you now."

"What are you two up to?"

They explained to Masumi what they had discussed, she stood there for a minute thinking, and said, "Why not."

Both, Toshi and Sam, hugged their mom, and said, "Thank you!"

"But," Masumi said, "I want you to talk to each of them alone, just in case one can't go. I don't want to embarrass either of them, if one can go, and the other can't."

"Good idea, mom.", Toshi said.

"All right. Lets get back to everyone, before they think we've abandoned them."

The three walked back into the den, with big smiles on their faces. And, Masumi said, "Sorry. It turned out to be a little family conference." She then looked at Miyuki, and winked. Miyuki gave her a look of, okay what is going on.

A little while later, Sam was walking Vanessa home, and she asked, "I love the new necklace."

"I thought you would. Do you know what the three diamonds mean?"

"No. What?"

"I love you."

She just hugged his arm tighter than she already was.

Then he added, "Aren't you curious, what the little meeting was about?"

"Yes. But, I figured that if it was important, you'd tell me."

"It's kind of important. I have a question for you?"

"Okay?"

"Your parents were planning on giving you a car for graduation. Right?"

"Yea."

"And, you told them you didn't want it. Right?"

"Yea."

"And, they told you to choose something else. Right?"

"Yea. Would you please get to the point. You're driving me crazy."

"Sorry. I'm getting there. I also know that you haven't told them that you want anything in particular. And, I think Toshi and I have come up with something that you just might like."

"What?"

"To go with us to Japan this summer."

Vanessa stopped in her tracks, spun Sam around, threw her arms around his heck, and kissed him. When they broke the kiss, Sam said, "Looks to me, like you like the idea?"

"I love it!"

"But, we need to talk to your parents about it."

"I know. But, I think they'll like it."

"Lets find out. You're home."

Vanessa turned, and they were right in front of her house. She pulled Sam up the steps, into the house, and found her parents in the livingroom. Her mom looked at them, and said, "What is going on. I haven't seen Vanessa this happy since you two got back together."

"Mom!"

"Well, honey it's true."

Her dad, with his drool sense of humor, just said, "You're both too young. No matter what you want to do."

"Dad! Just listen.", Vanessa chastised her dad.

Sam and Vanessa explained the idea of the trip to Japan. And, after going into the details, especially that Vanessa would be rooming with Toshi. The Martin's thought it would be a great idea. The only time Vanessa had been out of the country, was to Canada, to see her cousins, and to Bermuda, for a family vacation.

As Sam and Vanessa were saying goodnight. Sam said, "I guess I'm going to have to teach you some Japanese."

"Any time."

"Anata wo Aishiteiru"

"Is that my first lesson?"

"Yes."

"What did you say?"

"I love you."

"I like that lesson."

"Now, you say, 'Watashi mo Anata wo Aishiteiru'"

"A little slower."

"Okay. 'Watashi mo Anata wo Aishiteiru'"

"Watashi mo Anata wo Aishiteiru"

"Very good."

"What did I say?"

"I love you too."

"That's a mouth full."

"Yep. But, all we really need to say is, 'aishiteiru' and 'watashi mo'"

"What does that mean?"

"You can say 'I love you' in many different ways in Japanese. But 'ashiteiru' means love, and 'watashi mo' means 'I too'. So, if we were talking to each other, I would say 'ashiteiru', and you would say 'watashi mo'. And, loosely translated, I'm saying, 'I love you.', and you're saying, 'I love you too.' I know it's a little complicated, but you're a quick learner."

"Aishiteiru."

"Watashi mo. See, it's easy."

She kissed him again, and they said a long goodnight.

When he arrived back home, Toshi was excited. David said that he'd love to go. And, that he would check, and see if it was possible. Sam told everyone, that the Martin's had agreed that Vanessa could go along. And, that she was very excited.

As the rest of the school year went by, Sam and Vanessa became more than a couple, they became lovers. Vanessa learned that Sam was really a gentle and caring lover. He cared more about her pleasure than his own. And, in return, Vanessa cared more about his pleasure than her own.

 

Sam, and Vanessa, and David, and Toshi

4.0 g point average was the class valedictorian, which made everyone proud of her. The graduation parties for the three were put off until they returned from Japan.

The Sunday after graduation, Masumi, Miyuki, Sam, and Toshi left for a week with Grandma Gifford. A week later, Vanessa, and David met them in Los Angeles for the flight to Japan. After the long flight, they were met my Masumi's sister Sachiko, and her husband Jeremi. When they pulled up to the house, actually the guest house. David said, "We're all staying here?"

"No.", Sachiko said, "Just you four, and my children. The rest of us are staying in the house." And, she pointed down the drive, at the house. David just stared.

"You'll have time for Sam and Toshi to show you around, before dinner.", Sachiko added.

Then Vanessa, David, and the twins, unloaded their luggage from the car, removed their shoes, and carried the luggage inside. They were met by Aiko, who bowed, and said, " Irrasshaimase." (Welcome.)

The four, Vanessa and David had been coached by Sam and Toshi, bowed, and said together, "Domo arigato gozaimasu." (Thank you very much.)

Aiko, in perfect English, and with a smile, said, "It looks like Toshi and Sam have been giving lessons. Kioko and Taro, aren't here right now. But, will be back for supper."

Toshi introduced David to Akio. And, then Akio hugged Vanessa like she was a long lost member of the family. She showed the four to their rooms, and said that she had to go to the house to help with dinner. And, that Toshi and Sam could show the two visitors around.

As Sam and David were unpacking, David said, "This place is huge, and very nice. I didn't know that your grandparents were rich."

Sam smiled, "Sobo, sorry grandfather, was an officer at a large automobile manufacturing company. He built this, and really loved it."

The four met in the main room of the guest house, and the twins then gave Vanessa and David the tour of the guest house, and grounds. As they were walking through the gardens they stopped at a bench, and Toshi told a story of how this was a place that their mother and father loved, and they had spent many hours just sitting here enjoying the scenery, sunsets, and each others company.

They finished the tour, and ended up back at the house just in time for dinner. There Vanessa and David met Sofu Matsushita. She was very happy to meet them, and told them to call her Sofu. At dinner, Aiko, Kioko, Taro, Vanessa, David, and the twins, talked about what they were going to do for the next two weeks. Aiko had gotten tickets to a Kabuki theater for the following night. She said that there was a special troop there, and that the star was fantastic. They had also found a number of interesting places to visit, that they even hadn't been to. In addition, there was enough time for everyone to do their own thing.

After dinner, Sam and Vanessa went for a walk in the garden. The rest of the family went their various ways, with Sofu, Masumi, Miyuki, and Sachiko, sitting in the kitchen talking. After a while Masumi got up and went to the counter by the garden window. She looked out, turned to Miyuki, and said, "Mi, come here a minute."

Miyuki got up, walked over to the window, Masumi pointed, and said "Look. Does that look familiar?"

"Yes. Almost too much so.", Miyuki said, as she put her arm around Masumi.

Sitting on the same bench that Masumi and Mike had used, many times, a number of years ago, was Vanessa and Sam. His arm around her shoulder, and her head on his shoulder. They just sat there, and watched the setting sun. "Sam?", Vanessa asked.

"Yea."

"You've never talked about your dad. What happened to him?"

"I guess there's no harm, and I can tell you a little bit about it. He worked for a government agency known for their undercover operations, and one day he went away, and never came back. I heard someone say that there is a star on a wall for him. And, Aunt Mi, who's a friend of moms' from here in Japan, came to live with us."

"So, Aunt Mi really isn't your aunt?"

"No. Just a friend. A very good friend."

Vanessa could hear the sadness in his voice, as he talked about his dad. She cuddled closer to him. And, they sat there until it was late. As they were walking back to the main house to say goodnight to everyone, Vanessa said, "There is something about that bench. It just seems so peaceful there."

"I know. I just love it there. If I have a problem. I just go there, sit, and it seems to go away."

The following evening, the seven young people went to the Kabuki theater. As they were walking there, Kioko was telling David and Vanessa about Kabuki, and that by tradition males played all the female roles. And, that this particular family troupe practices traditional song-and-dance Kabuki, rather than the higher art form of Kabuki. And, that the star is a teenaged boy that everyone calls Daigoro. And, that he has an amazing following.

Aiko whispered to Toshi, "I figured that this type of Kabuki would be a better introduction for David and Vanessa, then the traditional type."

Toshi nodded her approval.

The seven enjoyed the performance very much. And, Toshi paid close attention to how Vanessa reacted to the males dressed as females. After the performance was over, the performers mingled with the crowd. And, with David and Vanessa being the only westerners there, they drew the attention of the performers, and Aiko translated for them. The conversation went back and forth between how the westerners liked the performance, to how the performers felt being dressed as women. Toshi also took note of this. David was a little standoffish, but Vanessa was full of questions.

After the performers excused themselves, the seven headed further into town to a tea shop. And, as they sat drinking their tea, they talked about the performance. David couldn't understand how a man could dress in women's clothes. But, Vanessa thought that it was really interesting that a man could pass so easily as a woman.

She said, that she found it very interesting when Daigoro had said, "Many people say that the role of a woman played by a boy is more attractive, because men are able to find out what makes a woman attractive. I usually observe those women in the street who are wearing a kimono, I study how they behave."

Over the remainder of their stay, they visited many places, and saw many things. Another Kabuki performance, but this time a traditional one. They visited a Shinto shrine, and Sobo's grave site. They went to the beach. And, many other things. Toward the end of their stay, Akio wanted to take them to a club, for dancing, and a good time. So, two days before they were to leave, the seven found themselves dressed for the club, and on a train heading for a nearby city. The club was a young people's club, the eighteen to twenty something crowd.

Sam was the first to notice, and whispered to Toshi over the loud music, "Some of the girls here are guys."

"Huh?"

"Some of the girls here are guys. Look closely."

"You're right."

Toshi cornered Aiko, and asked about the crossdressers. Akio said, that she knew that there was one or two nights a month that were for kids that liked to gender bend. But, that she thought that this wasn't one of them. Then Aiko asked Toshi, "Do you think we should leave?"

"I don't know. I don't have a problem. And, I know Sam doesn't. But, I don't know about Vanessa and David. I'll ask. How about Kioko, and Taro?"

"I don't think so, but I'll ask them too."

Toshi went up to David, and explained what was going on. He said, that he was a little uncomfortable, but they were there to have fun, and might as well stay.

Then Toshi went up to Vanessa, and told her about it. She said that it wasn't a problem for her, then looked around, and asked which ones? Toshi smiled inside.

They spent the rest of the evening enjoying the club, having fun dancing, and singing along to the various songs. Again, with Vanessa and David being the only westerners in the club, they drew attention. They had a number of people just stop by their table and talk to them. As each one did, Vanessa played a little game with Sam as to which one was a crossdresser and which wasn't. David did loosen up a bit over the course of the evening, and was having fun dancing with the four girls.

At the end of two very fun weeks in Japan, when it was time to leave, Sam and Vanessa took one last walk in the garden, and one last sit on the bench. She said, "Someday I'd really like to come back here." And, she kissed him.

The flight home was filled with conversation about what had gone on for the two weeks. With a lot of kidding about the club, and the gender bending kids.

The summer went by too fast. Before they knew it, Toshi was getting ready to go off to M.I.T., and David was in a funk. She told him that she would email him every day, and she would be home for Christmas, and spring break. He still didn't want her going.

Sam and Vanessa, were basically within walking distance of the Georgetown campus. But, what was bothering Sam, was that this was going to be the first time that he and Toshi had been apart. He was going to miss his twin, probably more than David was.

The drive from Georgetown to Cambridge takes about ten hours, so there was going to be an overnight stay. Early Saturday morning, the van was packed, very packed. It looked as if Toshi was taking the whole house. It was just the four of them, Masumi, Miyuki, Toshi, and Sam, going. So, the twins had time to talk about many things. After a lunch stop, Sam was driving, Toshi was sitting up front with him, and Masumi and Miyuki were napping. When Toshi asked, "Have you ever told Nessa about your other self?"

"No. But, I've been thinking about it."

"You know, you really need to be up front with her, especially if your relationship is going any further."

"I know. Mom and Aunt Mi gave me that talk too."

"You did notice how she interacted with the Kabuki performer, and the kids at the club. Didn't you?"

"Yes. But, I want to take it slowly with her. I don't want to lose her again."

"Just be sure to treat her extra special if she accepts you."

"I know. I treat her that way now."

"Yea. Your guy side is really hard to accept. So, you had better be treating her like a princess.", Toshi playfully said.

"Oh. And, you think you're easy to put up with!"

They got Toshi settled in her dorm room, and her room mate, Beth Ann, was a girl from California. And, was already home sick. They took her out to dinner with them, and again for breakfast, before they headed home, after a tearful goodbye.

On the drive home, Sam was driving again, and the three were talking about nothing in particular, when Masumi said, "I heard you and Toshi talking about telling Vanessa about your crossdressing."

"I thought you were sleeping?", Sam said.

"No. I was just resting my eyes. And, she's right, you do need to be up front with her about the dressing before your relationship goes any further. And, from what Toshi told me, it probably will go farther. Much farther."

"It will?"

"Yes. You two are really a couple. We've watched the two of you. And, like Toshi saw a long time ago, there is something special there."

"She's probably right. I've really been trying to figure out how to approach her about it. It just makes me really nervous."

"Why? Are you afraid that you'll lose her?"

"Yes."

"But, you have to be fair to her. She needs to know before . . . Why not try telling her a story. I know that you two sit, and talk for hours. Try telling her a story, and see how she reacts."

"Or,", Miyuki said, "start out talking about the Kabuki troupe, and the club. And, go from there."

"Hmm. But, what kind of story?", Sam asked.

"Yours. Maybe in a third person way."

Sam thought about if for a while, and said, "Maybe. Just maybe."

The first term of college was very busy for everyone. Sam, and Vanessa had a couple of classes together, so they studied together. But, the idea of talking to her about his crossdressing took a back burner to studies. He still dressed when he could, especially sleeping in nightgowns, and panties. Toshi came home for Christmas break, and really bugged Sam about not telling Vanessa, by saying things like, "Sam! Be fair to her. Tell her. And, if she really loves you, as I know she does, she will accept you as you. It may take time for her to see the complete picture, but I think she will." And, "You tell her, or I will."

Sam finally decided it was time, and he would tell her the next time that they had some time alone. And, that happened about three days before Christmas. He had been over to her house for dinner, and her parents had gone to bed early. Sam and Vanessa had gone into the den, and cuddled up together in front of the fire place. Like they usually did, with her sitting between his legs, and her head resting on his chest. The conversation started out as usual, just general chit chat about nothing in particular. Sam brought up the Kabuki troupe that they had seen in Japan, with the young boy that dressed as a girl. They tossed that back and forth for a while, and Sam was happy as to what he was hearing from her. She thought that it was really interesting that the boy felt the way he did, and that he passed so well.

Sam then brought up the club where a number of people were dressed as the opposite sex. She admitted that she thought it was brave of them to be able to go out that way, and to be accepted for who they were.

Sam then asked, "Honey. Can I tell you a story?"

"A happy story or a sad one?"

"Kind of a mix.", he said, and thought, 'And, I hope a happy ending.'

"Okay."

He started out telling her about a little boy of about eleven, which had been talked into dressing up as a girl for Halloween. He did it because his friend was going to do it too. And, when his mother dressed him up, he looked so much like a little girl, that no one knew it was really him. And, that by the end of the evening that he felt comfortable in the clothes, and didn't really want to take them off.

Then over the next few years he had used his sister's thing, like panties, and nightgowns. That the feeling had been very nice, and he felt very relaxed when dressed. And, that his sister knew, but never said anything. How he had been hurt very badly by something, and had gotten to the point where he didn't give a damn. He also stopped dressing. And, that his attitude had become, to say the least, bad.

He found out that his sister was very supportive of him, after she had tricked him into dressing, and going to a party. That something at that party had turned him around. That he was now back to being his old self. The sister had taken him shopping for his own clothes. And, that the boy was now happy for many reasons.

When he finished, she just sat there for a while in silence. She had felt his heart really pounding while he was telling the story. She then turned around, knelt on the floor between his legs, and looked at him. They looked at each other, for what seemed like hours to Sam, before Vanessa said, "That was your story. Wasn't it?"

He looked at the floor, then looked back up at her, and said, "Yes."

She just looked at him. Then said, "That was brave. Telling me that story. Why?"

"Why?"

"Why did you tell me?"

"To be fair to you."

"To be fair to me?"

"Yes. I felt that you needed to know, before our relationship went any farther, that there was something about me that I can't change."

"And, you want me to accept this part of you?"

"If you can."

"And, if I can't?"

"I don't know." The tears started. He was beginning to feel like he had made a mistake telling her.

 

-End Part 3-

  

  

  

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