Sensitivity Class
by Julie
I was close to graduation from the 6th grade in 1972 when all sorts of political and social changes swirled, including the screeching of the feminists. To add to all this was a lot of commotion, outrage, and debate over a local incident where a group of teenage boys in junior high school were teasing four girls on the way home from school; and it got out of hand. Although a few man-haters cried rape, the incident had not gone nearly that far, but far enough to bring about some serious outrage and community discussion for months (reports were one girl had her dress ripped off). The boys were threatened with criminal charges; but in the end, they just got some harsh warnings, and little actual punishment. The uproar persisted, even as the summer ended, and I began 7th grade in junior high.
It was the last week in September, a month after school began, when a special address was held in the auditorium. There were several speeches given by counselors and a woman psychologist/feminist about men and boy's attitudes toward women and girls, and the chauvinistic environment … and then after 90 minutes of these speeches the vice-principal came to the podium. He looked a bit haggard, and conflicted, but slowly outlined a plan put together by the school board and "community leaders". We sat in stunned silence as he laid out a new program for 7th grade boys. The boys were going to have a special sensitivity class. This class was to last just one week, and during that week boys will be sensitized to the unique problems and "challenging environment" of girls. He didn't specify all the details, but there was mention of boys experiencing the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of girls. The 7th grade boys would receive all the details in a special class tomorrow. Although it was just 11:30 when we left the auditorium, and still had three classes left; they may as well have sent us all home right then, as the school was all abuzz about this new "program", and no one could think or talk about anything else … so the remaining classes got derailed often into discussion of what was happening.
The 8th and 9th grade boys teased us 7th grade boys as we walked home; and I don't think any of us slept well that night as we had heard all sorts of rumors about the new "class'.
It was only the 7th grade boys who were assembled in the auditorium the next morning, so this all could be explained in detail. The two school nurses and the women's gym teacher stood at the side as the health class teacher, Mr. Norcross, explained the new "sensitivity class". We boys would be divided into six classes, about 20 boys per class; and the weeks would be staggered so that only 20 boys would participate in each week, for six weeks. He confirmed our worst fears. Boys would have to dress, groom, and be treated as girls for a period of one week! There were some shouts and curse words; and several boys tried to leave; and two boys were attended to by the nurses as they almost fainted … or hyperventilated … or something. After the commotion was brought under control, about 20 minutes later, he went on. The first class would begin next week, and every boy would be assigned a ninth grade girl volunteer as a mentor or "big sister" to help us with the clothes, makeup, hair care … etc. We were encouraged to get our mother's and own older sisters' assistance if possible; but the girl assigned to us would be there in case we needed them. There would be no dodging this class; and we would be graded, not only by our teacher and our "big sister" assigned to us, but three other girls whose identities would be unknown to us. would grade us as well. This is so we wouldn't clown and act inappropriately away from the teachers and mentors sight. You must get a passing grade … or repeat the class; and we wouldn't graduate 7th grade without passing this class. He laughed then, and said he didn't think we really wanted to go through the entire 7th grade in skirts as a girl, so he was sure we would make every effort to pass the first week.
"BUT … if even one of the girls gives you a failing grade, you could repeat." He warned. "So it is important you act appropriately at all times while you are taking this class. You'll never know who's watching."
We groaned. Such power was being handed over to our girl counterparts!
We were then handed out our schedules, and the name of our "big sister". I was assigned to the first week … of course. My "big sister" was a girl named Candy Manross. Those of us scheduled for the first week were to meet Friday after school in the gym.
To say we 7th grade boys were in shock would be a vast understatement; and the whole school was abuzz about this new development. There was a lot of talk about rebellion and defiance from some of us boys; but their plan was well laid out. With only 20 boys at a time, and the prospects of having to repeat the class if we tried to rebel … they pretty much had us. The halls between classes were filled with voices … and giggles from some of the girls, as the girls, as well as the 8th and 9th grade boys, eagerly awaited seeing us 7th grade boys dressed as girls. We boys nervously took closer notice of how the girls were dressed, and cringed at the thought we would have to wear the same thing for a week. I followed three girls down the hall, and felt a cold sweat break out as I looked at Karen's flower print blouse and white pleated skirt … and Diane's white blouse with the small, cute collar edged in girlie lace, and her pink A-line skirt. I could see her bra straps … and just a hint of white lace peeking out from her hem. OH GOD! Was I going to be walking down the hall in school next week looking like THAT?
I hadn't told my mother about the new class requirement; but now with more defined details, I approached her when I got home from school.
"Mom … uh … the school says … I mean … uh … they say us boys … uh … they are making us take a sensitivity class next week … and they are making us dress like girls." I complained.
"What?" She replied, looking confused and startled.
"Yeah … they said us 7th grade boys have to take a sensitivity class, and we have to dress as girls for a week. … They are making me go to school next week dressed as a girl." I stated, red-faced, hopeful that Mom would complain, and get me out of this.
"I don't understand. The school says you have to dress as a girl next week?"
I nodded.
"You must be mistaken. They wouldn't do that." She replied.
I handed her the schedule and booklet we were given, explaining the objectives, and outlining the course we would be discussing in a special class … one we would have to attend as girls … in skirts or dresses.
I went up to my room as Mom sat down to look over the material.
"I'm not sure this is the right way for them to handle this … but the whole county was really riled up over what happened last spring. It looks like they are coming down on all boys." She said.
"Yeah Mom … it's not fair. I don't think I should have to do it." I interjected.
"Well … it says you have to complete this course to pass 7th grade. … I'm unsure if it's a good idea, or it will work … but I'm trying to see their point. I understand your feelings about it being unfair and being embarrassing for you; but since all the boys in your grade have to do it … I guess you do too."
"Mo o om!" I whined.
"It's not THAT bad … and it's just for a week. We can talk about it after dinner." She said.
We didn't talk of it during dinner. I didn't feel like telling Dad about it … and definitely not my older brother. He was in 10th grade, and probably knew nothing about it.
Later that night, Mom and I talked quietly. She asked about details, like where the girl clothes were coming from, and just how I was supposed to be dressed. I was a little unsure of that myself. She sighed … and said she understood my reluctance about being dressed as a girl; but there was nothing she could do about it; and I was going to have to do it.
We 7th grade boys went to school Friday like frightened mice. There was still a lot of discussion about this new development, and the teachers instructed the older boys and the girls not to taunt us boys as we took this "sensitivity training". We boys had another name for it "sissitivity class". They were warned that if we boys reported we were being teased or taunted, the offender would then be forced to take this sensitivity class, and it would be doubly hard on him as a teacher would be his "big sister", and make sure he was dressed totally and completely "appropriately" with stricter guidelines to see his behavior also reflected how he was dressed. Girls were not immune either, but they didn't think the girls would be a problem, as the program was initiated to help their situation.
I nervously arrived at the gym after school, and found a dozen boys and as many girls, along with two long tables with piles of clothing. It wasn't long before I was matched with Candy Manross.
"Hi Calvin, I'm your 'big sister' for next week. I'm here to help." She announced.
Candy was not a pretty girl … nor an ugly one. She was slightly overweight, and taller … but then she was two years older than me. She seemed friendly enough, cheerful … and not unattractive. She came prepared with a cloth tape measure, and quickly sized me up.
"Relax … It's not going to be THAT bad. … I think you are going to look cute as a … a girl." She playfully teased as she took my measurements.
I felt my face aflame with embarrassment as I looked past Candy to the sissy girl clothes laid out, while Candy assessed my sizes.
We were soon rummaging through the clothes. I hung back in embarrassment … as did most other boys. There were a couple of boys though, that looked through the clothing alongside their "big sisters". Candy found two skirts, one blue and white A line with a couple large flowers in the print, and one pleated off-white. She also found two blouses, one typical schoolgirl white blouse with a small rounded collar, and one pale yellow with a daisy print, and dainty, ruffled-lace edged collar. She told me to try the blouses on while she went over to the piles of girls' underwear … panties, bras and slips. After rummaging through them, she only came up with one pair of flower print panties, and one white half-slip with a lacy hem.
We went over to where they had boxes of shoes on the floor next, and I watched as Candy picked out a pair of white shoes with the typical girlie strap, and then fight with another girl over a pair of flower print Keds.
"Well … it's a start. I'm afraid none of my things will fit you, or you could borrow some of my clothes. We are still going to need to do a little shopping. We can do it tomorrow. You'll need to bring some money. Do you think you can get $20 from your parents?" Candy inquired.
Twenty dollars!!
"I … uh … I don't know. Hey … why do I have to spend so much money?" I complained.
"Well … you don't HAVE to I guess. We can scrounge around … and make do; but I think it would be better if you make the effort, and look as good as possible as a girl. The boys who look like boys in girl clothes are going to get teased and laughed at the most. If you really look like a girl … and I think you can … and even make a pretty girl … you will get along much better … and even get the support of a lot of girls … not to mention having an easier time passing the course."
She continued to try and convince me as we walked out. We made an appointment for her to come over to my house in the morning; and I walked home with the bag of girl clothes.
I was just finishing breakfast when Candy arrived Saturday morning. She introduced herself to Mom; and they began talking about the sensitivity class, my participation, and the need to shop for some key items.
"Would you want to go shopping for your girl things as a boy … or can we dress you as a girl to go shopping?" Candy asked, turning to me.
I was flummoxed, and stared at her timorously.
"I think it would be easier if you go as a girl. You can try things on then … to see how they look and fit … and it could be less embarrassing when we look at girl's underwear … bras and such." Candy coaxed.
"Uh … bras! … underwear? … I … uh … no … I … don't think … I … umm … I don't know…" I stammered, embarrassed.
"Hey … you are going to be dressed as a girl in front of the whole school next week … so you might as well. It's just a half-day … and … umm … really … we can make you pass for a girl … and nobody will give you a second look in the girl's department then. It will make it easier." Candy stated.
I blushed … and looked at her, and at Mom, smiling … and timidly nodded.
"Good! … Come on then … and we'll see what we can do with your hair … and get you dressed."
Mom giggled a bit as she followed us upstairs. Candy asked for the bag; and Mom looked surprised, as I had not told her of the girl clothes I had brought home.
I was told to go wash and condition my hair, and put on a robe before coming out.
Mom and Candy were waiting with a set of curlers, and they sat me down, before teaming to put my hair up in curlers.
"I've often wanted to put his hair up in curlers, ever since it got so long." Mom giggled. "Boys grow their hair long like girls today … but then they don't take care of it."
Candy agreed heartily with my mother, and they began chattering merrily.
"You're going to have to pay attention … as you will have to take care of your own hair, and put it up next week. It's nice though that you have longer hair; and it'll look so much better now, once we show you how to take care of it. The boys with short hair have to wear wigs." Candy said.
Once my collar-length hair was put up in curlers, and they had a few giggles at my expense, Candy and Mom looked over the shoes, blouses and skirts I brought home; before Candy's attention turned to my fingernails. Being a boy, my nails were considered a mess for a girl. Candy got a nail file, cuticle tool, and clippers, and proceeded to work on my nails … cleaning, shaping and filing.
"Do you have some clear nail polish?" Candy asked my Mom.
Mom went to look, and Candy followed her a few seconds later. When Candy returned and began brushing the polish over my fingernails, I freaked at the light pink color! It was almost clear, but with a definite pink tinge, and left little doubt I was wearing nail polish.
"Don't be such a baby! You are going to be dressed as a girl … right? … so what is a little nail polish? You want to look nice … now don't you? We are going to make you look good. … You'll make a nice looking girl … ' pretty … and make a good impression …' trust me."
I would be totally lost without Candy … so I had to trust her. Actually, I was really getting to like Candy. She seemed like a nice girl … regardless of this weird, enforced situation. I thought Mom was hitting it off with Candy too.
After my nails dried, I was given the flowered panties to put on, and the half-slip. I slipped off the robe and Candy helped me into the yellow blouse and pleated skirt. The curlers were then removed, and Candy brushed and combed my hair.
"Oh Cal … oh … uh … We need to give you a girl name. Ummm … how about Courtney? I think that's pretty. I think it suits you." Candy exclaimed.
I nodded. I liked that name.
"Courtney ' then. … Your hair is nice … but neglected. A lot of girls would like to have soft, full, curly hair such as yours. You could have been a very pretty girl." Candy cooed.
There was something about this that felt so nice. Being 12 and recently attracted to girls, this close interaction with a soft, slightly older, more "mature" girl aroused me … and I was embarrassingly aware of the growing stimulation I felt. When Candy was done fussing with my hair, fixing it in a feminine style with soft curls and trimmed into wispy bangs, she had me stand, and turn for her.
I saw her look down, and a slight blush came to her face. She went over to Mom, and they whispered together before Mom left and returned with something. Candy came over, and handed me a girdle. I felt embarrassed, but thankful at the same time. It would be a lot more embarrassing going downtown dressed as a girl and have strangers and women clerks detect my noticeable male bulge. The panty girdle was lighter than I imagined it would be, and not that uncomfortable. The garters under the legs made the girdle more embarrassing, but then it was underwear, and hidden.
I was handed the flowered Keds … and then Candy and Mom got into a discussion about what I should wear under them … anklets? … socks? … Finally Candy handed me a pair of Mom's peds.
"Ok … let's look at you." Candy called.
Candy delved into her purse, and pulled out a tube of lipstick. I felt totally helpless and compliant at this point, and docily allowed Candy to spread the girlie grease over my lips.
"You know you don't have to wear makeup next week; but I think you should look as nice as possible. Since you are to be a girl … then you ought to try to look nice … and pretty … and fit in with the girls in your class. You look cute … ' better than a lot of girls." Candy cheerily commented.
I blushed, but felt drawn into this somehow; and Mom seemed to be warming to the idea of seeing me dressed like a girl … her "daughter", as well, and smiled at how I looked.
"I brought you a purse you can borrow." Candy said, holding up a small black purse. "You'll need to carry a brush … comb … lipstick … a small mirror, like a compact … and whatever … … … oh … and money!"
"I think I have an extra hair brush … and a compact." Mom said, leaving to fetch them.
Candy followed her, leaving me there to wait for them. Mom held out a brush, comb, and compact out when they returned … and then held out a twenty-dollar bill.
"Candy says you need this. Make sure you keep the receipts."
I was asked to turn for them again.
"We are going to have to get you a training bra first thing." Candy commented.
I felt my jaw drop, and face blazing … while Mom let out a squeak, and stifled giggles.
"Girls wear an undershirt … slip … or bra under their blouses. It doesn't look right with nothing." Candy explained. "As a 7th grader, a bra is what you need."
Mom's face lit up, recognizing the truth of Candy's observation, and nodded in agreement.
"A cardigan would help. It's a bit chilly out anyway. … And a scarf … in case the wind picks up. I ran into a little gust coming over." Candy said.
Mom disappeared once again, followed by Candy. They seemed to be gone a long time before they appeared again, smiling and chatting. Candy carried a white cardigan with pink and yellow floral embroidery on the bust, and pearl buttons. Candy held up a silky, yellow and white daisy print scarf.
"Isn't this pretty? It's just perfect! You have to protect your hairdo now … and you can carry this with you next week to protect yourself against the autumn breezes."
Candy carried the cardigan over her arm as we went downstairs. It was time for us to leave to go shopping. I was glad Dad or Glen, my older brother, weren't around, but out somewhere. Candy held the cardigan out for me to slip my arms into as we stood at the front door; and then she handed me the scarf to carry. I got the idea Mom would have liked to go shopping with us as we said goodbye, and went out the door. Mom and Candy even hugged.
It was a sunny day, only slightly cool for our mile walk to the stores downtown. Mom's cardigan was a little big on me. I walked timidly alongside Candy, emulating her steps, carrying a purse and scarf, and felt quite embarrassed in the unfamiliar clothing. About two blocks later Candy laughed as I scanned every person we saw.
"Will you relax? You look fine …' just another girl. Nobody is going to know you are a boy as long as you walk and act like a girl." She carped. "This will be good for you. You'll learn to be more relaxed and confident for school Monday."
She was right, of course. People we passed didn't look at me any differently than they did Candy. My voice wouldn't be a problem either, as it hadn't begun to change yet.
We stopped outside "Madeline's", a women's boutique; and I took a deep breath as we looked at the dresses and lingerie on display in the window, for I knew we would be going inside this feminine lair.
It was a rather large store, and we encountered racks of skirts, blouses and dresses upon entering. Candy flipped through the racks quickly as we made our way through to the lingerie section where we encountered a middle-aged clerk.
"May I help you find something?" She asked.
"We are shopping for a bra for my little sister here." Candy announced.
"Oh … her first?" She asked, eyeing my flat front.
"Yes", Candy replied, smiling back.
"We have a nice selection of beginner bras over here." She said, leading us. "Do you need some assistance?"
"No … I think we can manage … thank you." Candy replied.
I felt my face getting redder and hotter as I looked down at the bras, incredulous that we were shopping for a bra for me … and I would soon be wearing one. Little did I know just how soon. Candy reached down and picked up one of the bras, size 30, a white one with silvery, snowflake-like embroidery on the cups, with a cute ribbon bow, and inspected its construction. Candy seemed quite at ease … as if I was her real little sister, and she did this every week.
"What do you think of this one?" Candy asked.
I was dumbfounded. What did I think? It was a bra. What did I know? … I just looked at it … and trembled to think I could be wearing that … and sport the ribbon bow on my chest.
"It's kind of sweet … don't you think?" She asked.
I nodded meekly. Sweet was as good an adjective as any.
There were four other styles. Two were white, one a soft, girlie pink with a prominent pink ribbon bow, and a pink and white flower print, with a pink ribbon and white flower in the middle.
Candy handed me the sweet white one, and the pink and white print one. We then walked over to the panties, with me carrying the bras, draped from my fingertips. Candy again asked my opinion on the panties displayed, but I was still choked with embarrssment.
"You are going to have to try and loosen up. The idea is for you to experience what it's like being a girl … … and I can't think of a better place to start than getting your first bra." Candy whispered in my ear.
I nodded meekly again … but that was easier said than done.
We looked at all the prettier panties, before Candy picked out a pair of pink ones with an embroidered flower, and dainty lace around the legs, and a pair of white ones with lace panels and two white ribbon bows … and handed them to me. She had picked out the girliest ones.
Now with me carrying two bras and two pair of frilly panties, Candy found a rack of hanging slips. Candy located the group of size 30, and had me sort through them … one by one, juggling my purse, the bras and the panties. The nylon slips felt so cool and silky … and so girlish to my touch as I swung them out from the rack for us to assess. I was a little shocked as Candy slid a very pretty, lacy slip from its hanger, and held it up to me.
"Yes … this is quite pretty … and dainty. Isn't the lace lovely, Courtney? You'll look so sweet with this under your skirts and dresses." Candy purred.
Candy held it out to me … and I numbly accepted it. Wow, I was getting so many girlie things!
"Girls sure wear a lot of underwear." I grumbled softly in her ear.
Candy laughed.
"…'and such nice, pretty underwear too." She added.
Candy nudged me back to the changing room; where she had me try on the bras. My face burned as Candy fastened, adjusted, tugged, and fussed over the bra on my chest, making sure of the fit. Once satisfied both bras were suitable, she had me try on the full slip. I barely began to enjoy the sensuous feel of the silky nylon, and shudder at the glossy ribbon straps over my shoulders, before she slipped it off again.
I put my blouse back on, and carried the cardigan out of the changing room as we went over to the cashier to pay. I blushingly handed the garments and the twenty-dollar bill to the lady.
" ..' everything fit ok?" She inquired.
"Oh yes … Courtney loves them … don't you sis?" Candy replied.
I felt my face getter redder by the second as I nodded.
"How sweet ' to have a loving older sister to help." She commented.
The lady smiled radiantly as she rang up the purchase, and handed me the bags and the change.
Candy took my hand, and pulled me back to the racks of dresses.
"This Friday you are all going to have to dress up … and wear a pretty dress. … I will try and borrow one from a girl friend, but no guarantees. You might have to buy one, so we might as well look here for one … just in case." She explained.
I felt a little weak in the knees as she began looking at the junior size 2 dresses. How could they, the school, put us through this?
The first dress Candy held up was a pretty, light blue with a sort of white snowflake design. It had very full sleeves, a sort of pleated front, a full pleated skirt, a white collar and cuffs edged in a sort of doily-like lace, and a sash that tied in a bow in back. Candy then found a pretty flower print dress with lacy accents that screamed "Sunday". With these two dresses in hand, we started back to the dressing rooms.
Candy stopped at a rack of party dresses, and gleefully looked through them. She pulled this ultra-girlie dress out, and half-twirled with it. It was pale pink with a beautifully embroidered chiffon overskirt with darker pink and white flowers with lacy green stems and leaves woven amongst the floral scenery. At the waist was a darker, shiny pink sash with a large, beautiful, pink flower with ribbon streamers cascading down over the skirt. The sash had a large bow in back, and the ends of it draped long over the back of the skirt. The full sleeves of the dress were the same floral embroidered chiffon of the overskirt, and the bottom of the sheer sleeves were scalloped to partially cover the hands.
"Isn't this scrumptious, Courtney!!! What a lovely dress!" She excitedly exclaimed.
I gulped. It made the dresses I held look like boy clothes. It made my knees weak just to gaze upon it.
"Don't you wish you had a dress like this … and a party or fancy dance to wear it to?"
Candy's eyes glazed over at visions of wearing such a beautifully feminine dress. Candy held on to her visions for a couple of minutes as she looked down at the dress she held up to herself … and then finally sighed .. and replaced the dress on the rack.
"Ok … let's have you try on your dresses." Candy said, guiding me back to the changing rooms.
Candy helped me into my new white training bra, and then the full slip, before trying on the blue dress. The material of the dress felt so fluid and smooth, almost like the slip; and I felt quite sissified as Candy zipped it, and tied the sash in back. I walked, and turned for her, and she was quite pleased how I looked, and had to show me in the mirror. … I looked for "all the world" to be a rather cute girl … even with the tennis shoes that didn't go with the dress. I tried on the other dress then, and they both fit very well, and Candy said either would be quite suitable, although she preferred the blue one. I was a bit timorous as Candy had me put on my blouse and skirt, still wearing the bra, and lacy, white full slip. She then tied the cardigan around my waist.
We left the dressing room; and I now was typically dressed as other teen girls … with TWO sets of straps … bra and slip both. It felt even stranger; and my blouse pushed out slightly in front from the new undergarments, giving the appearance of the beginning of breasts. I glanced in the mirror … and confirmed Candy's complaints. Although you couldn't see my bra or slip, the outline of the straps and edge of my chest coverings were apparent … making me more closely resemble other girls. The cardigan tied around my waist looked girlishly cute, and something girls often did.
We paused, briefly, as we passed the rack of party dresses, and Candy sighed.
Candy looked quite pleased as we exited the store.
It wasn't long before we came to a Park Lane hosiery store down the street; and we stopped to look at display window of stockings, pantyhose, and garter belts.
"You have to wear stockings or pantyhose Friday with your dress. Seeing you already have a girdle with garters we'll get you some stockings. They are cheaper than pantyhose, and easier to replace if you run one leg. You are also going to have to shave your legs." Candy declared.
We went into the rather small store, with me painfully trying to digest all this, and looked at the different kinds and shades of stockings. After some deliberation Candy decided on taupe stockings with reinforced heels and toes, size 9. Candy had me buy three pair as they were on sale for three pair for $2.39.
We continued down the street until we stood outside of Penney's. The display window had some pretty nighties along with other items, and the nighties seemed to catch Candy's attention.
Candy ushered me into the store; and we meandered back to the lingerie department, and the nighties.
"Aren't they pretty? If you were to choose what would you wear … a long gown … pajamas … baby dolls?" Candy inquired.
I was taken a little aback.
"Uh … pajamas … I guess." I answered.
"Oh … those are pretty." Candy stated, pointing out a set of feminine pajamas displayed in mint green.
They were nothing like men's pajamas. They were a very fluid, silky nylon. The bottoms were similar to men's, but the top was a pullover with a square, lace-trimmed neckline with floral embroidery. The three-quarter sleeves were trimmed in lace also.
"Those are nice, but I bet you'd look really cute in baby dolls, though." Candy teased.
We looked at the various nightwear; and Candy noted her preference for the long, pretty nightgown with matching silky robe in "candlelight" … sort of between a light beige and a pale yellow. Candy looked at my concerned expression as we examined them.
"You are supposed to stay as girls for the whole 5 days, but they aren't going to make you sleep in nighties. They wouldn't have any way to know if you did or not. I think it would be nice, though. You should think about it." Candy commented.
I wasn't sure if she was serious. Candy spoke lightheartedly, with a little frivolity and playfulness … and I was quickly becoming enamored, despite the position I found myself in.
We looked at lingerie while we were there: the bras, training and otherwise, panties, and slips. We also looked at the junior dresses on our way out.
We next found ourselves in Woolworth's five and ten. Candy had me buy a pair of pink plastic barrettes shaped like bows she picked out. We then looked at the cheaper cosmetics, and she picked out a shade of pink lipstick for me. Next, we meandered, browsing through the store, just like any two flighty school girls, and happened on a package of three white anklets with eyelet lace around the tops. Candy thought they were just adorable, and made me buy them.
"How about we get a cherry coke?" Candy asked.
We found a booth by the lunch counter; and we ordered a couple cherry cokes and an order of French fries.
"I have to use the little girl's room. Do you have to go?" Candy asked when we were finished.
I nodded.
"Ok … you'll have to come with me." She instructed, and took my hand as we headed for the ladies room.
I went into a stall, lifted my skirt and slip, pulled my girdle and panties down, sat on the toilet ... and went like a girl.
I joined a smiling Candy at the sink to wash my hands. She pulled out her lipstick.
"Put on your new lipstick, Courtney." She directed, as she applied hers.
Candy looked amused as she watched me put on lipstick, and then checked how I did.
"It looks good on you. I think you should wear it every day next week." She commented.
"It's too bad you aren't a girl. … You make a pretty cute one." She whispered in my ear.
We left Woolworth's, and headed back to my house. We saw a group of girls from school. We waved at each other from across the street. We both only barely knew them; but it wouldn't bother me too much if we did run into kids I knew or Candy knew. Everyone at school knew the situation. I didn't have a choice, and the penalty for teasing me could be pretty steep.
"So … how do you like wearing a bra … and girdle?" Candy giggled, as we left downtown.
"It's definitely different. I don't know if I could get used to it. They are kind of restricting." I replied, tugging at the band a little.
"I think you'd adapt. You're doing really well."
I blushed.
"Am I really going to have to shave my legs?" I asked.
My legs only had a few blonde hairs. I had run my hand over my leg while we sat at Woolworth's. The hairs were thin and sparse.
"Yes … You're legs have to be smooth before you put on nylons." She explained.
It was 2:30 by the time we got back.
"How did the shopping go?" Mom eagerly inquired. "Oh … I see you got a new bra … and … a full slip?"
Wow … females were observant.
"Let's see." Mom said, and began unbuttoning my blouse.
"Oh … ' pretty", she exclaimed at the sight of my slip bodice.
Mom pulled the bodice of the slip forward to peek at my bra underneath, when my brother came out to see. My face burned.
"Go back to the living room. It's nothing you have to see." Mom said, shooing my brother away.
I was stunned. He didn't even make any cracks or jokes or anything. Mom must have laid down the law.
"Let's go upstairs, and see what all you bought." Mom suggested.
"Did you have a good time? Did you run into any trouble? … Where all did you go? You were gone quite a while. I was beginning to worry. Did you have anything to eat?" Mom asked Candy as they followed behind me up the stairs.
We got to my room, and Mom had me take off my blouse, and then push the slip straps off my shoulders so she could see my entire bra and how well it fit. Her amused curiosity satisfied, she and Candy replaced my slip top, and helped me back into my blouse.
They began pulling the items out one by one. Candy held up the white panties with the lace and ribbon bows. I blushed as they fawned over them, and glanced mirthfully over at me. The pink ones were next … and then the pink and white bra. Mom giggled as she thoroughly inspected the pretty, slightly padded, training bra, and commented how sweet it was, and how well Candy had done. Next came the stockings in the Park Lane box.
"Stockings!" Mom exclaimed.
"Yes … the boys … I mean the 'girls' have to wear pretty dresses and hose Friday … dress up day … for their graduation … hopefully."
Candy grinned over at me at the "hopefully" part.
"I figured Courtney is already wearing garters on her girdle … and stockings are cheaper than pantyhose. … She can take an extra stocking or two with her to school … just in case. I explained replacing a stocking is a lot easier than putting on another pair of pantyhose. Buying a boy one pair of pantyhose, and hoping they will last didn't seem like a good idea."
Mom heartily agreed as they both commented on the quality of the stockings … and teasing me a little at how I might react to gartering and wearing my first silky-sheer nylons.
Candy then pulled the anklets with the eyelet lace from the Woolworth bag; and Mom was tickled.
"Oh honey, they are just so sweet! … Awww … you will look so cute for school Monday!" Mom cooed.
Candy showed her the pink barrettes next, and showed me how to clip them on the strap of my purse to keep them handy for use in case a curl refused to stay in place. They also added a little girlie decoration to the purse. Candy then pulled the pink lipstick out of my purse, and they both suggested I put some on. Mom approved of the shade, and remarked how nice I looked in the pink lipstick … and as a girl.
Mom and Candy chatted about the stores and the shopping; and Candy added we had browsed through Penney's, and looked at some really pretty nighties and pajamas.
"They'd really prefer the boys sleep in nighties, and keep them in girl mode for the entire 5 days; but they understand the impossibility of seeing they do it … so all they can do is suggest it. I've offered to loan Courtney one of my nighties." Candy impishly suggested.
Mom giggled.
"What do you think … Courtney?" Mom inquired.
I felt my face turn red, and I looked down at the floor. Even though I was standing there in a blouse and skirt with bra, panties, girdle and slip, I wasn't about to volunteer to sleep in a nightie!
"I must say … I wasn't too keen on this at first; but I'm beginning to like this idea. … You are getting a good education on how the girls have to act and dress … and keep themselves groomed. You are getting to see things from a girl's point of view. And you've certainly found a gem in Candy here as your big sister and teacher … and friend." Mom gushed.
"Thank you, Mrs. Taylor." Candy said.
"Would you like to stay for dinner? We'd love it if you'd stay." Mom asked.
"Thanks … I'd like that … as long as Courtney is here for company." Candy replied.
"Uh … Courtney … what do you say?" Mom questioned.
I blushed … and nodded, acquiescently. I mean, gosh, Candy had been so nice. How could I say no … and essentially tell her to go home? Besides, I didn't want her to leave.
"Good", Mom exclaimed.
" … ' first thing, let's see how your new anklets look. Take off your tennis shoes and peds." Candy directed.
Mom watched as I replaced the peds with the lacy anklets.
"Oh yes, they look so sweet. That's much better." Mom giggled, as I modeled my new socks.
"They are adorable, Candy. You've done a splendid job of dressing your new charge."
"Thanks … I would have liked a little sister to dress and take care of."
"You don't have any brothers or sisters?" Mom asked.
"I have a sister. She's three years older."
Mom and Candy began chatting about Candy's family, and then about girl things. I sat and listened; and after a few minutes, Candy had drifted over behind me, and began fussing with my hair as they chatted; and she clipped the pink barrettes in my hair.
"Come down and we'll talk as I get dinner ready." Mom suggested after a while.
Candy held out her hand, and took me down to the kitchen with them. Candy pitched in to help wash vegetables, and soon had me next to her, helping. Before I knew it, the three of us were preparing dinner … in aprons.
The three of us were putting the last of the food on the table when Dad and my brother came out, and their jaws dropped at the sight of me working alongside Mom and Candy, and looking so girlish.
"What are they teaching in that school?" My father lamented.
"I told you about it. They are all incensed over the incident over the girls last April; and they are trying this new sensitivity thing. It's going to be hard enough on Calvin; so don't you get down on him." Mom said defensively.
Dad nodded his agreement, and kind of gave me that "tough luck, kid" look.
"I can't believe he looks so much like a girl." Dad commented.
"Yeah Dad … he could have fooled me. He really looks like a girl." Glen commented.
I was surprised at the first words from my brother. I expected taunts and guffaws.
Candy gave me a light hug before sitting down next to me.
Mom introduced Candy to Dad and my brother, and they happily turned their attention to her, asking about her family, and where she lived.
Dinner went pretty well, with Dad and my brother only stealing amazed looks my way, and with Candy dominating the conversation.
We three "females" were left to clear the table, and do the dishes afterward. Mom and Candy quickly pointed out who was left to clean up … and how I too must feel it was my place now, and was obligingly helping without a second thought.
"This sensitivity thing is growing on me. I can see how it is going to open the eyes of these young boys … and just as they are about to start dating." Mom commented.
"Yeah … you know … I volunteered in part because I thought this wasn't quite right what they were doing to the boys … but I'm seeing the merits of it better too." Candy added.
"I'm so glad you stayed for dinner. You were a blessing! …' not only a big help with dinner and the dishes, but diffusing the situation, and making things so much easier … for … uh … Courtney too. You really are a gem; and I've so enjoyed your company." Mom effused.
"I didn't do that much; and I'm happy to help my little sister, Courtney, here." Candy said, putting her arm around my shoulder.
"Thanks Candy … and you make a great 'big sister'." I said appreciatively.
"I've really enjoyed meeting you too Mrs. Taylor. You have a nice family." Candy added.
We stayed in the kitchen, and sat at the table and talked. Candy and I put on fresh lipstick. Mom offered to drive Candy home about 7:30 PM, and I rode along. We hugged, and kissed cheeks when we left her out at her home.
* * * *
To be continued …
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