The Scholarship

by

Julie O.

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Forty-Nine

I'm taking the liberty of jumping ahead to the wedding. However I'll provide a summary of what went on in the weeks between my operation and Mom and Sam's nuptials.

My recovery went really well. There were no complications and my overhauled nose looked pretty good. It wasn't THAT different from my pre-attack nose. Maybe it was a bit smaller than before. Laura said it was cuter! However, what was important was that it looked great and was no longer bent, and my sense of smell was still great. It was no longer a reminder of Jason's brutality. Dr. Ayres had done a wonderful job. He'd said that he'd reexamine the scar above my eye when I saw him for my nose checkup.

Alex and Mike stopped off to see me before they took off to college. They promised to be back for the wedding. Alex was a bit disappointed that he wouldn't be able to attend his family's annual Fourth of July party. He promised that he'd make up for this in the future. It was a fun party, even though I just sat and watched the volleyball games.

In addition to Mike and Alex, I had a steady flow of visitors after I got back from NYC. I sort of set up camp on our deck, and all my friends dropped by whenever they had a chance. We played board games, listened to music, talked, and worked on our tans. Mom found me a straw hat with a huge, floppy brim that kept the sun off my nose. I had about as much fun as possible in my recovery.

Laura and I continued our relationship. Maybe it would have been better if we'd have drifted apart, but instead the opposite occurred. We were even deeper in love! Separation would be awful, and I tried not to think about it.

I had a wonderful birthday. It was subdued because of I was still recovering from my surgery. Mom and Sam gave me a pair of diamond stud earrings. I treasure them to this very day.

My transition was also progressing nicely. My first checkup with my endocrinologist was great. He was very pleased with my progress. I was moving past an A-cup and fully expected to be in a B-cup soon. I also followed a suggestion and began to have some sperm samples frozen. The suggestion came from someone at Spencer's who said that if I stayed in a lesbian relationship I'd have the opportunity to "father" a child down the line. The idea intrigued me, and I decided to try it. I was still "potent" enough to start this procedure.

Cat went down to Philly for a few weeks. She was checking out her college and she spent some time with Matt. They were becoming quite the couple. Cat told me that they were both playing it smart, so there was no need to worry.

Terri and Mom were in full planning mode for the wedding. I was amazed at how quickly Terri put it all together. She had managed to get the tents, caterer, DJ, and everything else on very short notice. Mom picked out her dress at Mrs. Lincoln's store, along with the bridesmaids' dresses. I was impressed with the outfits she selected. They actually looked like something you'd want to wear for more than just one occasion!

I also started working at the store again in early July. I was putting in full 40-hour weeks and loving it. I'd wanted to go back earlier, but everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, insisted that I stay home and recover a bit longer. Mom, Sam, Terri, Jenny, Laura, Nancy, and Cat all voted against my early return to work. Needless to say, with that sort of lopsided voting Mrs. Lincoln wouldn't consider letting near the place.

Anyway, when I returned to work it felt great. I still had to be careful. Dr. Ayres had told me that complete healing would take almost a year. But then again, how badly can you hurt your nose in a clothing store?

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty

The week of the wedding was wild. Sam's family was coming up from Philly and he'd reserved a whole wing at the best local motel. Only one relative from our side of the family answered the invitation. She was a cousin who said that they'd love to come, but couldn't make it all the way from San Diego. The rest of the family ignored the invitations. That was fine with me. I was just as glad that they weren't coming, so that they couldn't ruin the day.

My REAL family was going to be at the wedding. Terri, Cat, Laura, Nancy, and all of our friends in Golden Hill more than made up for the narrow-minded people Mom and I were actually related to!

The actual wedding would take place in the city park overlooking the river. Even though Mom and Sam weren't overly religious they were going to use a minister for the service. They got the one who'd spoken at the rally back in May. He was honored to do the service.

I was looking forward to meeting Sam's family. They were due to arrive starting the Wednesday before the wedding. They all knew my status. I didn't mind, as most secrets never last anyway. At this point in my life, I saw myself as female anyway not a boy dressing as a girl. I had an identity as Erika, and a body that was beginning to match my mind.

On the Tuesday before the wedding, Laura and I were at Spencer's. We were by now well known and accepted by the regulars. Some knew I was TS, but most just saw us as a young lesbian couple.

In some ways it was funny, in that I got more looks for being seen as a lesbian than from those who might have suspected that I was TS. Laura told me that I was crazy on the latter, as I looked so feminine. We had been going to the pool most of the summer and we never once had a single problem. I think that until I had my SRS I was worried about being made. There was always the fear in the back of my head that someone would detect my secret and expose me.

"So how many 'deposits' have you made?" asked Laura.

I smiled. "Several, so far." Okay, I was deliberately vague.

"You know if we stay together, it'd be so cool to have a child that's both of ours genetically."

"That's true, but let's not look too far ahead."

"Trust me, we were meant to be. But I'm in no rush to have a baby!"

"So, if we ever break up it is just temporary?"

"Absolutely. I have a very strong feeling that we will be together."

"You know. I actually believe you," I replied

We then kissed.

"My parents are out this evening; you want to go back to my house?" asked Laura.

I just nodded yes. Laura stood up and helped me up, and we walked out to my car.

Back at Laura's house, we went up to her room. She led me to the bed and we sat down and began to kiss. We started slowly and tenderly. The wonderful thing about our relationship was that it was very sharing and mutual. It wasn't a competition.

We still stayed above the waist, but that wasn't so bad. Laura really knew how to get me going by playing with my nipples. I experienced feelings that were very erotic. My new loose emotions took me to new sexual highs. Laura was amazed by the reactions she got from me as she worked my nipples. Between her fingertips, lips, and tongue, she had me squirming all over her bed. She really enjoyed getting that reaction!

Laura also knew how to bring me back down, and we ended in each other's arms. It's very difficult to put down in mere words the sensations that she took me through. I think that because we cared so much for each other, the sexual side was even more intense.

"How was that?" asked Laura. She was lying next to me, her head propped up by her hand.

"Wow!" was all I could say. I was breathing hard and was awash in emotions.

"I can't wait until you've had your SRS. I look forward to teaching you about that area of your body."

"I know. By the way, we finished filling out the application for the operation. We should get a response in the next few weeks."

"That's so cool," replied Laura. She leaned over and kissed me again.

As we got dressed, Laura mentioned that she had something to show me. On her computer she had combined the photos of my growing chest and run them through a morphing program. I watched as my breasts grew out of my initially flat chest; it was pretty cool

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty-One

The first of our future family arrived Wednesday afternoon. Sam's parents and his sister Carla and her husband arrived in Golden Hill. Sam didn't look very disappointed that Carla had left her kids back in Philly. Sam's brother Brett was delayed at work and would be arriving Thursday. Sam had selected him to be his best man.

Mom and Sam invited the first arrivals over for a barbecue at our house. For the first time since I had known him, Sam actually looked nervous!

"Relax, Sam," stated Mom. "Everything is fine; we even have your father's favorite beer in the fridge!" She then gave him a kiss.

"I think they're here!" I announced. A large green SUV pulled into the driveway.

Sam, Mom, and I walked outside to greet them. I suddenly felt very nervous!

They greeted me as if they'd known me my whole life! Sam's father gave me a big bear hug and Sam's mom kissed me. Carla was also very happy to meet me, although her husband, Dave, looked a little apprehensive.

We took them out to the deck. It was nice and shady in the afternoon. Sam and Mom got drinks for everyone. The initial conversation concerned their trip up from Philly. It then shifted to the wedding.

Sam turned on the barbecue and his father and Dave stayed out to help him. The "girls" went inside to get everything else ready.

Carla was very cool, and I felt very close to her almost immediately. Sam's mom insisted that I call her "Grandma." That really got to me emotionally.

Mom had previously told them about the issues in our family. They agreed that it was their loss and not ours!

Mom gave Grandma Warren a tour of the house, giving Carla and I some time alone, staying in the kitchen to keep an eye on the rest of the meal.

Carla told me that I looked great and that she was glad that the surgery had gone so well.

"I'm just glad that it's over. Although it's minor compared to my next operation." I stated.

"I have to tell you that, if I didn't know the truth about your birth gender, I'd never have guessed after meeting you today," complimented Carla. "You really are a lovely young lady." She smiled at me.

"Thanks, Carla." I noticed that she had a similar smile to her brother.

"Don't worry about, Dave. He'll warm up to you. You're the first TS he's ever met, so I'm afraid he's dealing with trash TV propaganda," announced Carla.

"So, do you know any other transgendered women?" I asked.

"I've met a few through work, on both sides of the law," she replied.

"Oh! That's right. I forgot you were in DA's office in Philly."

"I also followed your case rather closely. Sam was very proud about the way you handled yourself during the trial. I was also impressed!"

"Did he tell you about my problems after the trial?" I asked

"Yes, he did. Don't be ashamed of what happened. Your reactions were only human."

The more we talked, the more I liked her.

"Thanks. I still can't believe it happened. I'm also getting sick and tired of the nightmares," I said softly.

"It takes time to recover, Erika. I still get nightmares sometimes."

I looked over at her, and she was smiling gently at me.

"I didn't know. I'm sorry," I apologized.

"It happened a long time ago. It was right after I became a lawyer, and he was a coworker. We went out on a date and he took it too far," explained Carla.

"That explains Sam's special interest in sexual assault cases."

Sam was still a detective at the time. He made the decision to become a lawyer during my trial, getting angry at the way the defense lawyer treated me. He decided that he wanted to do more to protect the victims while putting the guilty away for a long time. I also think that he wanted to make the defense attorney pay for the way he treated me."

"Who was the lawyer who cross-examined you?" I asked.

"Martin Turner," replied Carla, she had the Warren smile on her face.

"Wow. It really is a small world!"

"How true! If Martin hadn't been so brutal to me on the stand, we might not be talking today!"

I went on to tell her about what Mom had done to Martin Turner in the restaurant. We both were laughing hysterically when Mom and Grandma Warren returned

"Jill, my opinion of you just went through the roof!" said Carla, who was slowly regaining her composure.

Mom looked confused until I told her what we were talking about. Grandma Warren also seemed very pleased with Mom's actions.

"I knew Sam would marry a strong woman!" stated Grandma Warren. "Too bad the SOB wasn't hurt when you tripped him!" This brought on a new round of laughter.

Dinner went really well. Sam's father insisted that I sit next to him and also insisted that I call him Grandpa. I was so excited about the way they accepted me.

By the end of the evening, even Dave had warmed up to me.

After dinner Carla told me all sorts of stories about Sam. Sam came into the kitchen and overheard her telling me a story about one of his wild adventures.

"I must warn you, Erika, that your Aunt Carla is a pathological liar," commented Sam. He smiled at us as he got a cup of coffee.

"You mean that you didn't really streak at your high school homecoming dance?" I asked innocently.

Sam just shook his head and smiled, "Wait until later, Erika, and I'll tell you some stories of Carla's sordid past!" laughed Sam

Carla then threw a dishrag at Sam, hitting him in the back of the head. He then chased her out of the kitchen and outside. Grandpa Warren just smiled and said it was nice to see some things never change.

After they left, I told Sam and Mom what Carla had told me.

"You're even more my hero now than before!" I announced.

"Mine too!" concurred Mom, kidding him.

For once he was speechless.

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty-Two

The rest of the Warren clan arrived on Thursday. Sam's younger brother Brett showed up along with several other relatives. To be honest, I had a hard time keeping track of them. I did notice that they all thought very highly of Sam, that they were very happy he was marrying Mom, and that they all seemed to accept me.

Brett was pretty cool. It was really fun watching Sam, Carla, and Brett insult and goof on each other. Brett also took an instant liking to Terri. She also seemed interested in him. Cat joked that if things worked out she and I could end up being related!

The next few days were very hectic. Thankfully, Terri was there to organize everything.

Mom wanted Carla to be in the wedding party, so Carla and I went over to Mrs. Lincoln's store to get her dress tailored. I also enjoyed introducing her to Cindy, Mel and of course Mrs. Lincoln.

Mrs. Lincoln told us that the dress would be ready in an hour. Having some time to kill, we went to lunch together. We went to the diner downtown near the courthouse.

"I can't get over how well everyone in your family has accepted me," I stated

"What amazes me is that your own family won't even acknowledge you," replied Carla. "Sam spoke highly of you, even before he was dating your mom. When he told us that they were dating, and then engaged, we figured that if you're being transgendered didn't matter to him, then why should any of us object?"

"Thanks."

"However, Sam's admiration for you just bought you the initial introduction to the family. After that it was up to you, and the way you've handled yourself really won us all over. Yes, we know you're transgendered, however it's not your total identity with us. You made real points with my parents by considering them your grandparents."

I was speechless. It was so nice to know that people were willing to give you a chance.

After lunch we picked up the dress and headed back to my house. Terri was directing what could best be called "organized confusion." The caterers were there and they were setting up the tents in the backyard.

The rest of the day involved the usual pre-wedding chaos. We had a short practice and then dinner.

Later that evening Mom, Carla, Terri, and I were sitting in the kitchen talking. Carla joined us in drinking tea. Sam didn't approve of her drinking tea and said that it only proved that she was really adopted!

Mom was a nervous wreck, and we were doing our best to calm her down. I found it slightly ironic that our usual roles were reversed. I was so used to her calming me down!

Mom wouldn't say it, but I knew she was upset that no one from our side of the family had accepted the invitation to the wedding. We both knew that it wasn't just a distance issue, rather their absence was due to their own ignorance. Personally, I'd written them off long ago, but Mom still had feelings for some of them. I felt a bit helpless, as there was nothing I could do about it.

To be totally honest, I couldn't understand their hostility to Mom. Yes, she had made mistakes when she was younger, but she had more than made up for them. She had become a successful businesswoman. She'd raised me as a single mother and I'd turned out pretty well. I don't believe that the way I was raised had anything to do with my being TS. The more I studied it, the more I felt it was a biological cause. If they weren't willing to open their eyes and see what a wonderful person Mom was, then they could all go to hell

I said goodnight and let Carla and Terri work on her. I knew they'd calm her down.

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty-Three

Saturday was a lovely day. The weather was perfect; sunny, warm, and not humid. The wedding was due to take place around noon. Mom and Sam had planned the ceremony to be short. Neither wanted a long drawn out ritual. I think we were all pleased that they'd made that decision.

I was really happy with the way I looked in my dress. It was light yellow, simple but elegant. I liked that it was cut a bit low and thus showed off my boobs a little. They did get help from the pads, but I still thought I looked pretty good! I wore the white lingerie that Mrs. Lincoln bought me.

Mom looked radiant. She'd calmed down somewhat, and now was just slightly nervous. I felt so good for her. She truly deserved all the happiness she could have from this moment.

The wedding itself went off without a hitch. Sam and Mom looked great. Once Mom saw so many of our friends there, I think she forgot about our lack of relatives there. As planned, the wedding ceremony was elegant in its simplicity. The minister gave a short sermon and then there was a simple exchange of vows. Then we officially became a family.

The reception was also a great time. The guest list was huge, and I think everyone who showed up had a great time. The mayor of the town even showed up!

Most of my friends were there with their families. Laura joked that she'd like a ceremony like that when we got married. Cat and Matt were there and I know Matt enjoyed meeting so many members of the law enforcement community. Caroline and Paul also showed up.

Kristen and Alex showed up with Mike and Tracey. The guys looked really good. They'd been working out all summer and it showed. I swear that Mike was two inches taller!

Jenny and Coach Chambers showed up as a couple. Coach insisted that I call her Lori now. There is always something weird about calling your ex-teachers and coaches by their first names. It takes a long time to get used to it!

Of course Nancy came. She even had a date. He was a doctor over at the hospital. They made a nice couple! I still had questions for her, but I knew that this wasn't the time or place.

Mrs. Lincoln looked so elegant! It was like having royalty at the reception. Grandpa Warren actually recognized her from her movies and the theater! They had a very lively conversation. It was the least formal that I'd ever seen Mrs. Lincoln.

Cindy and her husband and Cliff and Mel also came. Mel said that she liked the ceremony, but that her wedding would be more formal. Cliff cringed at hearing that! She told me that they'd set a date and it would be next June. Then she totally surprised me by asking me to be in the wedding party! Of course, I said yes. I mean, how many bridesmaids can say that they've punched the groom in the nose?

Brett and Terri were becoming very friendly. They danced all afternoon and into the evening.

Cat and I thought they made a great couple! Cat was pleased that her mom was becoming interested in romance again.

"The trip to New York was the trick. She said that Tony's interest in her was a wakeup call, and that she could still feel romantic," Cat remarked. There was a huge smile on her face. "I'm so happy for her!"

I also danced a lot that day. Thanks to my friends, my skill was much improved. At least, I no longer made a fool out of myself. Laura didn't mind me dancing with other people, as long as I saved the slow ones for her! In addition to my friends from school, I danced with several adults. Tom Bell was one of my favorite ones, as was Grandpa Warren. Brett also danced with me, but the very best was with Dad!

Mom and Sam looked so happy. After all, Mom had been through, it was great that she finally had a man who really loved her. There was a slight change in plans due to their work schedules. They weren't going on their honeymoon until the fall. They'd decided to take a week off in October and drive through New England. They'd already picked out the bed & breakfasts they were going to stay at.

The reception ran late into the night. Since Sam and Mom had invited the neighbors, and also because half the police department was there as guests, there were no complaints about the noise!

As the party died down, I had a chance to talk with Grandma Warren. Laura and I sat down next to her during one of our breaks from dancing.

"Well, it was certainly a lovely wedding. We were starting to worry that Sam never would settle down," stated Grandma Warren.

"Why is that?" I asked.

"He was always so much into his work. He never seemed to have the time to date."

"I'm glad he found the time!"

So am I, dear. I'm so happy that you are part of our family," she announced. "I'd love to have you to come down for a visit sometime. We'd love to show you around the city."

"That sounds great." I paused for a second. "I want to thank you for so readily accepting me into your family."

"Oh, Erika, it's our pleasure. Besides, I like the idea of having a granddaughter that I can go shopping with!" she answered with a laugh.

We then hugged. So, this was what it was like to have a family that actually cared about you! I felt a bit emotional thinking about not having had this for most of my life.

The last of the guests left around one. Sam told the caterers that they could come back to clean up in the morning, if they wanted to. They gladly accepted.

I slept over at Cat's that night, so Mom and Sam could have the house to themselves. We did agree to meet for brunch late. It was a wonderful day!

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty-Four

Brunch was also our farewell meal, as Sam's family was leaving afterward for the trek back to Philly. Even though I'd just met them, I'd miss them. They insisted that we come down for Thanksgiving and, much to my delight, Mom and Sam accepted!

Carla and Brett told me all sorts of stories about Sam. He returned the favor and told a few whoppers about them.

Mom was still glowing from the wedding. She kept looking at her ring with a huge smile on her face.

Cat, Laura, and I also talked about our trip to the Jersey shore. We were leaving on Wednesday and would be staying until the next week. We had to move the trip due to scheduling conflicts with Matt's parents over the house.

"You know, this Wednesday is an important date for you Erika," announced Cat.

I thought about it for a moment. "I give up, what is it?" I asked.

"It's your first anniversary as Erika."

She was right! I felt like a fool for forgetting. It had been a year ago that I'd first heard of the scholarship competition and my entire life had changed.

It had been a change for the better.

After brunch, we said goodbye to the Warren clan. I'd miss them. But it was so cool to suddenly have a family, especially one that actually loved and accepted me!

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty-Five

The trip to the shore was really great! Matt wasn't exaggerating about the house it was lovely. We were within walking distance of the beach. While it wasn't the Pacific, it was still pretty cool.

Laura and I went for long walks along the beach almost every day. I particularly loved the evening walks. We did catch some looks, as we made no effort to hide our love for each other. But the worst thing that happened was that some guy called us a couple of "fuckin' dykes." Laura wanted to go correct him and tell him that we hadn't gone that far yet. I joked that we could point out that I was still technically a guy. Laura made a big yuk face.

"You may have a penis, but you are NOT a guy. I don't date guys!" she whispered to me and then we kissed.

As usual, she was right. I was no longer a guy. I was very happy being a girl. I wasn't exactly looking forward to the surgery. Oh, I wanted to get it, and I wanted my body to match my mind, but I was really sick of hospitals!

We also spent time with all the others. I really enjoyed the company of my friends. It saddened me a bit to think that we'd soon be scattered all over the state.

Laura and I did manage one afternoon alone in the house. We'd just been to the beach and came in to shower and change. Without saying a word, Laura took me by the hand and led me into the shower.

As the water came down on us, she slowly removed the top of my bikini. My breasts were now just about a B-cup. She began to kiss me and caress my breasts. I returned the favor. I practiced what she'd taught me and gently kissed and licked her nipples.

She then stripped off the bottom of her suit and did the same for me. We got out of the shower and dried off, and she led me to her bed. There on the bed, she gave me my first lesson in pleasing a woman below the waist.

"Now, I know yours will be a little different, but this is what it will look like," she stated.

She guided my hand down and showed me the pleasure areas. I was amazed and fascinated by everything she showed me. She explained how there were different areas that could be stimulated. I couldn't wait until I got my own! Yes, I knew that it would be different but it would still be better than my maleness.

I did as she told me and gently rubbed the areas she pointed out. Judging by her reaction I was doing a pretty good job. Once I got the hang of it, we began to kiss as I continued to touch her. It was funny that I had to change my gender to get this close to a girl!

When we finished, we cuddled and hugged each other.

"For your first time, that wasn't bad," announced Laura.

"Thank you. I have a great teacher!"

We both giggled.

"You know, after your operation I'll show you some great techniques to pleasure yourself."

I laughed. "It's funny, but boys masturbate all the time and they never think about girls doing it."

"That's stupid. Girls do it all the time too!" announced Laura. She leaned over and kissed me.

We finally got up and got dressed and went for a walk. We headed down to the beach. I loved watching the little sanderlings run back and forth in front of the waves. They were the cutest little birds.

"So, when are you leaving for school?" I asked.

"Labor Day weekend. My dad is renting a trailer to take my stuff down to my dorm room. Thankfully, I only have to stay in the dorms the first year. Are you staying at home?"

"Yes, even though the scholarship would pay for my dorm, I'd rather live at home. At least until after I have the operation."

"I just want to remind you that I want to go with you when you have it done."

"I know. I'm really going to miss you."

"I'll miss you too," said Laura.

We walked awhile without saying anything. We just held hands as we walked along the beach. I thought about how hard the separation, would be and it took all my willpower to keep from crying.

Thankfully, we cheered up by the time we got back to the house. There was no sense in dragging everyone else down in our misery. I thought we gave excellent performances that evening. On the outside we were perfectly happy while on the inside we were crying.

 

Chapter Two-Hundred-Fifty-Six

So that's the story of my first year as Erika. By the end of the Labor Day weekend, we were spread out all over the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The last thing I want to talk about is one of my dinners with Nancy Bell. It was just the two of us and I had some things to ask her about the scholarship.

"Okay, I understand the purpose of the contest, and I can see how it has changed Central High and Golden Hill for the better, but why did she set this up in the first place?" I asked.

"I asked my aunt that once. She told me that the woman who set this up was always interested in promoting equality and understanding. But the event that really made up her mind was a tragedy involving a mutual friend of theirs," replied Nancy.

"What happened?" I asked.

"You know that my aunt was in the theater in New York City. Well she initially met the woman who set this all up at a social event. Aunt Sylvia said she was a major contributor to the arts. They hit it off immediately and soon were great friends. They had a wide range of friends, including many in the LGBT community. A transgendered friend of theirs was beaten up pretty badly by a couple of neighborhood thugs. The person lay there for several hours until someone finally called the police. Apparently people walked by and refused to help. The police weren't much better; they mocked the victim and were slow in calling for an ambulance. Aunt Silva knew this because the person told her this before she died from her injuries. To top it all off, the police never even attempted to make an arrest. Their comment was that 'he had it coming by dressing up like a woman'."

I sat there in silence.

"So she decided that she'd do something to change people's ideas about the transgendered. She decided that she could sneak it into a scholarship program that was designed to promote gender understanding."

"So why Golden Hill?" I asked.

"It was the right size, it had a Liberal Arts college, and she also lived here. Her husband had been the president of Dewey. Her social status, combined with the influence of Aunt Sylvia, allowed the program to get started. The committee that was formed to oversee it was filled with likeminded people."

"So, the real goal was to change everyone else?" I asked.

"You've got it! So far we've made some good progress. You remember how I told you that we're considering expanding the program to other towns? Well, we have several towns that have contacted US and they want to do something similar," announced Nancy.

I sat there for a while thinking about what she'd just told me. "I want to help!"

"I was hoping you'd say that," smiled Nancy.

Epilog

It's hard to believe that those events happened ten years ago. I guess that I should catch you up on what's happened in past decade.

First off, both Mike and Alex had very successful college careers. Neither won the Heisman, but both ended up in pros. Alex's career didn't last that long, as he had knee problems. He's presently an assistant coach for Penn State. The word is that he'll eventually become a college head coach. He just got married last year. He still has the big party every Fourth of July, and every year as many of us as possible try to be there.

Mike's career has been much more successful. He's had a great career in the NFL and, barring injuries, he should have many more great seasons. Nonetheless, he's not just a jock. He earned a masters in social psychology in the off-seasons, and then put together a "Sports without Bullies" program, which is getting a lot of attention in high schools across the country.

I did go to a few games at State, and I still go to the occasional pro game to see Mike play. He still considers me his lucky charm. Maybe he's right. Every game I've seen him play in person, they have won, including the past two Super Bowls.

Kristen broke up with Alex in college, but they remain good friends. She got her wish to live in NYC. She's presently a reporter for one of the big cable news networks. She told me that she's being groomed for her own show. We still get together once a year for a weekend of shopping and shows. She's still single although she's recently been dating a hockey player for one of the NY teams.

Tracey and Mike broke up in college. After she graduated from college, she married a doctor and moved to Atlanta. The last time I heard from her, she was a mother with three kids.

Rachael Patton went on to try out for the Olympics. She qualified for the marathon and had a respectable run, placing in the top thirty. She currently still competes in long distance events and does TV commentary for cable sports channels and the occasional network appearance. She's hoping to be a commentator for the next Summer Olympics.

Caroline had her SRS the following summer, a few weeks before mine. She has stayed with Paul and, for all practical purposes, they've been married since they graduated from Central. They have a successful comic strip that is presently syndicated in over a hundred newspapers around the country. They bought a big farmhouse near Golden Hill and turned it into their home and studio.

Denise is still rocking. She got her SRS a few years ago. She has become a successful studio musician and still tours with a band. She's also still a total nonconformist and still takes great joy in confusing the hell out of people.

Glenn works for NPR as a writer. He told me recently that he has no regrets concerning his decision to drop out. He did credit his time as Lisa as giving him the self-confidence to become a writer.

Dan stayed in Golden Hill. He's the manager of the leather shop next to Mrs. Lincoln's store.

Charlie still plays the piano, and is a well-respected studio artist. I've seen his name in the liner notes of many CDs. I did see him play a few years ago. He was touring with a well-known blues singer.

Alex's brother, Nick entered the Scholarship contest and lasted two months. He said he just wanted to see what it was like. Several years later, he confessed that he had a major crush on me. He moved to Seattle and the last I heard he worked in the news department of a local television station.

Tom Bell is presently a special investigator for the Pennsylvania State Police. He's married and has several kids. Sam is still trying to talk him into going to law school, but Tom says that he's having too much fun "catching jerks."

Jenny McCall and Lori Chambers are still in Golden Hill. They are still a couple. Lori is now the Athletic Director at Dewey. Jenny still has her practice, and I still call and see her every now and then.

Dr. Lee is now a professor at Dewey, where she teaches sociology.

Mrs. Lincoln has retired from directly running her stores. She turned the day-to-day operation of the business over to Cindy. She still makes her trips to New York, and is in the middle of writing her memoirs. I can't wait to read them!

Tony, the limo driver, also retired and turned the business over to his sons. However he still serves as Mrs. Lincoln's driver, whenever she goes to the city.

Mel and Cliff married the following June and their marriage is still going strong. They now live in northern California and have two kids and three dogs.

Jason is still in prison. He has become a "model" prisoner and because of that he'll be eligible for early parole next year. That's several years sooner than his original sentence. I plan on going to the hearing, and every one after that. I guess I should be more forgiving, but it's very hard to forgive his actions. I still carry around some baggage because of what he did to me, and I have no early release from my pain, so I don't think he should get out early just because he's been a good boy.

Martin Turner lost his license to practice law in PA. The last I heard of him, he was selling used cars in Miami, Florida. I know that I'd never buy a car from him!

Nancy Bell is now the principal at Central. She has also earned her doctorate. The scholarship program is still going strong. She has seen similar programs start up in three other school districts. She was married last year and I was one of her bridesmaids. Her husband Jeff is a professor at Dewey and is really nice. I still consider her one of my best friends!

Terri and Brett dated on and off for a few months before they surprised everyone and eloped on a trip to Las Vegas. He moved to Golden Hill, joined the police force as a lieutenant, and became the new police chief two years later.

Cat has had a very interesting life since graduating from Central High. She graduated with honors from college and was immediately hired by the FBI. She joined Matt, who had been hired two years earlier. She quickly became a rising star in the criminal lab. They sent her back to school to earn her masters degree in forensic science. She has personally solved several high profile crimes. They say that she's a natural!

Cat married Matt two years ago in a lovely ceremony down in Washington DC. I was honored to be her maid of honor. We still keep in touch and I can always count on her honest opinion and her wonderful advice. After all, we're now cousins in a sort of roundabout way.

Sam and Mom are still married and even deeper in love. I now have a sister, Terri, age 9, and a brother, Sam Jr., age 7. I love being the older sister! Mom still works at the computer company and is now VP of marketing. Sam is still the DA, although there have been rumblings of people trying to get him to run for congress. Sam says that he's too honest to be a congressman. He still drinks coffee and still has his killer smile!

They still live in the same house. The backyard is now fenced in and is the playground for the kids and the dogs. Sam couldn't decide what to get, so they got both a chocolate lab named Mocha and an Irish setter named Murphy. The bush is still alive and thriving. It's huge now and shelters a rabbit's burrow. I am glad that it has become a sanctuary.

Laura and I broke up during our second year of college. The distance/separation was too hard on both of us, and we made a mutual decision to split up. We stayed friends and got back together again later, but more on that later.

She passed the bar and is now practicing law. She specializes in civil rights, with special attention to women's rights and LGBT discrimination. She also works with Marlene at times. Sam says that she's an excellent lawyer and that he wouldn't mind having her on his staff.

As for me, I had my SRS the summer following graduation. I pushed it back from the spring so Cat and Laura could be there for me. The surgery was successful. I never got the plastic surgery for the scar above my eye. It had faded enough so that it was barely noticeable.

The adoption papers came through the fall after graduating from Central High and I became Sam's daughter legally! I continued to attend Dewey and to work at the shop. I graduated with a BA in History and a minor in Education. I took some time off to travel a little before I started my student teaching. I was hired the following year at Central and now work alongside Mr. Kline – excuse me, that's Gordon! I still have difficulty calling my former teachers by their first names, just as he predicted!

I love teaching, and I'm also on the scholarship committee. I'm seriously thinking about going back to college to become a counselor. Nancy says that there's funding available if I want to do that. Mrs. Lincoln has also told me that when she gets too old, she wants me to take her seat on the Scholarship Trust board of trustees. She says she doesn't plan on getting "too old" any time soon.

As for my private life, I survived the initial break up with Laura. After college I had a short intense, fling with Mike. I think we both needed it. Mike told me that he'd had a real crush on me in high school. However, it wasn't meant to be, but it was really fun while it lasted and we left it as good friends.

I still have the occasional battles with the demons spawned by Jason's hateful action, but I'm still winning the war. Having understanding friends has been my greatest asset, along with the occasional therapy session.

Laura and I got back together after she finished law school, and it was better than ever before! She always said that we were going to be together forever and she was right; we got married four years ago. The funny thing is that the same laws that wouldn't let me completely change all my paperwork to say I was female allowed us to get married. Since they considered me a male, legally that is, they had no choice but to issue us a marriage license. It was either that or legally declare me female. Laura said that Marlene's and her goal was to get those ridiculous laws replaced, and I believe her. Laura still considers the case as her finest moment in the courtroom. She was even interviewed on nationwide TV! We joked about who would play us in the made-for-TV movie.

The actual wedding was just a simple exchange of vows. Because of the publicity of the case, we held it in secret with only family and close friends. Still, it was a lovely ceremony. It was also pretty cool having Sam give me away.

So, we both live in Golden Hill. We found a lovely house with a spacious yard that's just a couple blocks from Mom and Sam. We share our home with a large mixed breed pound dog named Charlie, my tribute to John Steinbeck, and a black cat named Maya, named after a friend's cat back in San Diego. Laura is also eight months pregnant with our first child, a daughter, who we've decided to name Caitlin, in honor of our best friend. My spermcicles seemed to have stayed potent enough to get her pregnant. There was talk by some of the wacko political/zealots about coming here to protest, until they realized who we were. They must have done their research this time and knew not to mess with us!

Anyway, things are going very well. Sam and Mom are very excited about becoming grandparents. Grandma and Grandpa Warren are VERY excited about becoming great-grandparents. I'm also excited about being a co-mom, as I'll be taking some maternity leave to help raise Kitten, our nickname for our daughter. I've been getting all sorts of great advice from Elaine Roberts at Central. We still laugh about my adventures with Robo-baby. I was delighted to find out that, with some hormone dosage adjustments and frequent nipple stimulation, I should be able to produce breast milk and help nurse our daughter. Laura has been enthusiastic about the frequent stimulation!

So, that's all for now. I may write more another day, but I have a feeling that, with our baby on the way, I'll be a bit busy in the future. However, if your town is looking to start a scholarship program similar to the one at Central, please contact Dr. Nancy Bell, Principal, Central High School, Golden Hill PA. She'll be happy to help you!

The End

  

  

  

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