The Summer Tony Never Expected       by: Gail F Symon

 

Eastern University is one of those small exclusive, high priced schools where the nuevo rich parents send their children. The school guarantee’s the student will ultimately get a degree with an outstanding G.P.A. even if it means having to take a course over several times. This is not to say that all of EU’s students are from rich parents. Because of anti-discrimination laws and standards they were forced to accept some applicants who otherwise did not meet the ‘rich family-benevolent alumni’ profile.

It was this crack in the system that allowed Tony to become a student. His parents operated a small General Store in a rural community of the state. They were not excessively prosperous and definitely not wealthy. It was because of this condition that his Highschool advisor sought out and located a scholarship for Tony. He was a bright student and she thought had great potential. He was too small for sports so any financial assistance would have to be through the business/arts channel. So it was that Tony was accepted at E.U.

Tony survived his first year with grades good enough to retain the scholarship. His first grades were only fair but by the end of the year the gradepoint was sufficient to retain the scholarship. One of the factors was the result of a friendship that developed that developed during the year.

Robert Wesley Franklin III was a second year freshman. He was a third generation student at E.U. whose parents were as wealthy as one could imagine. They were not old money just lots of it and ‘sonny’ would stay in school until he got a degree was the way he explained it to Tony.

During that first year Tony and Robert began studying together. Helping Robert with his homework made Tony a better student such that they both finished the year with good grades. Tony was not only proud of his own grades but felt an accomplishment of what he had done for Robert. In spite of his pride he was a bit jealous of Robert for two reasons. One because Robert came from money and seemed to be able to always buy whatever struck his fancy. And secondly Robert always got better parts in they plays the Drama Club did during the year.

Let me explain this second reason. Tony’s scholarship was based on two criteria: one was business aptitude and secondly interest in arts. Well Tony was not learned in music so Tony had been given a background in Drama. It was this factor that had gotten him the scholarship.Part of his ciriculum were drama class’s which he did enjoy. It was because of Tony’s involvement that Robert joined the Club during the spring semester and immediately got a major part in the spring production. Tony on the other hand wound up helping stage hands with sets and lighting. His only speaking part came when one of the girls playing a ‘charwoman’ broke her leg.

It was only a bit part. Between the bonnet, the long dress and the make-up, you couldn’t tell from the audience who or what the person was. And Tony had been chosen only because he was the only one who could fit into the costume and knew the part. And so we now come to the end of the school year and the Drama Club party.

It was the custom for students to dress as their favorite character they had played. But as is the case with students who have financial resources, to just wear the play costume was not good enough. Some would rent or purchase expensive outfits of the type they had worn, especially the girls, who would purchase elaborate gowns far in excess of what they had worn on stage.

It is here that Tony’s dilemma begins.

Tony had spent most of the year as off stage help so he was ready to go wearing just "regular clothes’. And when asked by fellow students stated this. But three of the girls, one of which was the girl he replaced disagreed with this.

"You had one speaking part and you should go as that part" they all agreed. Tony really didn’t object to this. After all he had began the year as an outsider and this was kind of like ‘being accepted’ he rationalized. So thus began his oddessy.

At first the preparations began simple. Find a long skirt, white blouse, etc. But with each step the girls decided on more elaborate preparations. One day they did a shampoo/rinse on his longish brown hair and it came out a beautiful medium auburn. They were all excited with the results and one thing led to another.

"Your not going to be on a stage far from people so make-up has to be better" one of the girls commented. Suddenly Tony, much to his objection found himself at a beauty shop with the girls to get some professional help. Too late to complain or resist, 2 ½ hours later Tony left the shop, now with shaped brows, acrylic nails and a style cut of his hair. Tony felt self conscious as he left the shop. But to his dismay no one gave the four of them a second glance, not even the waitress when they stopped for a soda. In fact her "You girls all want soda’s?" kinda suprised Tony. But as he looked around, his school sweatshirt and jeans weren’t really any different from any other student there, male or female.

Fortunately Tony thought, this ended the preparations for this day. He had one more exam to take and wanted time to study. The girls and he parted ways outside the soda shop. Their excited state kinda worried him as they walked away. The last comment he heard was "he’s too cute for that old skirt and blouse". He let it pass: his mind was on the exam. He didn’t even hear the whistle or notice the look a boy made as they passed.

As he entered his residence he heard his housemother say " Oh Miss, you can’t go....." She stopped short as Tony turned and spoke. "It’s only me Mrs. Wilson" He explained his new look was preparation for the Drama Party. "I’m going as the chargirl and the other girls are helping me".

"That’s nice Tony. Do the best you can just like you have been doing in school" she replied adding "I want to see how you look for the party when you get ready".

Tony spent the rest of the day studying. About 6:00 PM Mrs. Wilson knocked on his door announcing she had fixed him something to eat. " I noticed you didn’t go out so I thought you might be hungry" She put down a cloth and set the tray on it. Tony looked and thought there’s enough here for 4 people.

"Thanks, now that you mention it I am hungry, I haven’t eaten since breakfast. Thanks again Mrs. Wilson," With that she left. Tony ate, studied and fell asleep about 9:15.

It was 5:30 am when he arose. Looking at the clock he realized he had 2 ½ hours until the exam. He ate a cold piece of steak left over form the night before, washed his face and brushed his teeth. The reflection in the mirror kind startled him when he first saw it. He hadn’t really taken note the day before but he suddenly became aware how much the haircolor and brows changed his appearance. He wondered how long it would take to get back to normal and what his family would say. Oh well, it’ll grow out.

The exam well . Math had always been his best subject and he had studied hard. An "A" here would certainly help his gradepoint. He walked out and was sure he had aced the exam. Coffee, he needed coffee so he headed straight for the local student hangout. As he entered he was greeted by two of his helpful Drama friends.

"Come sit" one said.

"Exams finished?"

"Yep, just took the last one, sure I aced it" he replied

"Good now we can get you ready for the party. And we have a surprise-we decided on some different clothes for you"

Just as Tony was ready to respond, He noticed Robert walking in. To his surprise Robert walked in, looked around, and was ready to leave when Tony called. At first Robert just looked and then finally noticed Tony waving.

"My God, I didn’t recognize you.......Hi Girls, you too Tony".

One of the girls spoke up and said they were helping Tony get ready for the party. She then asked if he was ready. True to his nature Robert explained that since he had played the wealthy banker in the play this entitled him to go out and rent a tux for the party. He also explained that his folks were coming for the faculty party and he wanted to look good. With that he left the shop.

"Oh that big braggart. Just cause his folks are big deal he thinks he is. Tony, how could you be friends with him?" one of the girls asked.

Tony simply explained they were in class’s together and Robert had helped him financially because of the studying they had done. In fact, when Robert had explained his improvement at school was because he was being tutored, his parents had sent him extra money to pay the tutor. "It really helped during the year"

The conversation shifted to Tony’s preparation. " We’ve got all your clothes ready at our place. We want you to come by at 8:05 tonight and come to the back door, Okay? Now be very quite when we let you in". With that the girls departed, Tony finished his coffee and went to his room.

No one paid him any mind as he went up to the room. There were parents in and out help their son move out for the summer. By 3:00 PM the house was empty except for Tony and Mrs. Wilson. Tony packed his books and what little he had in the way of clothes and put them in the hall on the first floor. He would take them to the greyhound station later and ship them home. Tomorrow after the party, he would head for home. Tony and Mrs. Wilson watched TV, had supper together and at 7:45 he headed over to the girls place.

"Shhhhh" Cindy said as she let Tony in. He followed her up the back stairs and into one of the rooms. Upstairs she explained that the house mother always watched Jerry Springer from 8 till 9 and this was their sneak in or out time. She went on to explain that he was going to spent the night here and in the morning they would get him ready for the party. But for now, he would be made up just like one of the ‘girls’ and would passed off as a student spending the night. During the semester this often happened so it wasn’t an unusual thing. The girls figured this being the end of the year, housemothers would be lax.

Tony was bewildered. This was all happening too fast and before he could try and silently protest his clothes were off, his hair was in rollers and a bit of make-up had been applied. He was then ushered to the bathroom. One of the girls had already filled the tub, the bubbles rising up over the edge.

"Quick now, before our Housemother see’s your hairy legs, clean up and then shave any hair off your body and legs". Keeping his back to the girls he dropped his boxers and jumped into the tub hoping the bubbles hid his privates. The girls left him alone and he quickly soaped up, washed and rinsed off. He was just running the razor over what little hair he had on his legs when Cindy came back in. By now the bubbles were gone and he was suddenly self conscious. " Hurry, hurry, dry off and put these on" she instructed as she left.

In one minute he was dry and struggling with the panty and the shorty nightgown he had been left. He didn’t even try the bra. He had looked at it and said no way to himself. About then Carla came in and ushered him back to Cindy’s room. "Now just be cool. All the girls know whats happening and will help cover for you."

Cindy commented, "Look at her, she’s passable right now. We all have the same thing on, shorty PJ’s, hair in rollers, old Gladys isn’t gonna check her for boobs. Check and see if the coast is clear".

"Clear"

The girls now began to explain their plan. Tony would spend the night with the girls. They would prime him on sitting, standing and generally how to act. In the morning they would help him dress, do makeup and get him ready for the party. And since they were getting ready too, Tony would have lots of moral support. Just then someone tapped on the door, "Gladys’s coming up the stairs"

Quickly they dimmed the lights in the room. They were all sitting crossleg on the beds when the door opened. "Just a reminder girls, curfew rules still apply-door in bolted at 11:00". It was then that she noticed Tony.

"Well we have a guest I see"

Cindy jumped in. "This is Toni. She’s one of the girls in the drama program and we’re all going to the get-together tomorrow"

Gladys said she was pleased to meet her then added "you girls know the rules. All overnight guests have to sign the register. So lets take care of that. I’m sure that even at home your mother wants to know who’s staying overnight"

At this moment Toni was a nervous wreck. He really wasn’t even aware that Cindy had taken his hand and was leading him downstairs until he stumbled at the landing. " Shhhhhh just be cool...........Sign the book.....Tee....Oh......Nnnn.....Eye.....and your last name" As they went up the stairs they passed Gladys coming down. " Now girls, don’t be too late or loud. Nice to meet you Toni" And with that Toni went into the room and collapsed on the bed.

"She passed.!. yes!...yes!...yes!" someone whispered. And with that comment the Girls began work. The curlers came out of Toni’s hair and it was rerolled. His toenails were painted. Brows checked. Then all the make-up was sampled and that which suited Toni was put aside. Through all this the girls kept telling Toni your doing fine always ending "It’s too late now. The doors are locked"

Tony/Toni finally began to relax. Up to this point he had been outnumbered vocally besides being in an ackward position. It had flashed through his mind that he could loose his scholarship and be out of school. And then as if an afterthought he asked, "I thought my costume was already decided, you know the skirt and thing?" He seemed to just be mystified by the girls excitement. He quickly got his answer.

"It’s really very simple. When we saw how cute you looked with your new color and everything and your friend Robert shows up bragging how he’s going, well just decided that us girls, including you, were going really dressed up. Don’t worry Hon, your going to look good tomorrow". But as the conversation continued, Toni drifted off to sleep. It wasn’t long before all the girls were asleep. If only Toni had heard the plans they had!

Activity in the room woke Toni up. As he rolled over and sat on the edge of the bed he was confronted by 3 half naked girls rushing to get dressed. "Wake up sleepy head. We’ve got 20 minutes to get breakfast" Suddenly he had 3 girls helping him dress. First it was a bra. Someone was removing the rollers. A short sleeve top, a wide skirt and a pair of flats. Someone came in with a warm wet washcloth, a touch of lipstick. I have to go to the bathroom" was Toni’s first coherent words. As he went down the hall two other girls said "Hi Toni, better hurry or you’ll miss breakfast"

Toni was a nervous wreck as he sat in the dining room. "Good Morning Girls" It was Gladys asking. "And how did our guest sleep? she asked looking directly at Toni

"Fine Maam"
"Well you girls will be busy today. Does anyone have parents coming?" There was a universal NO. Most of the girls added that they had their own cars and would be leaving tomorrow.

Breakfast was a buffet so Toni had to get up and get his food. As Gladys oversaw the breakfast she gave no indication that Toni was anything but what he appeared, a college coed. In fact she commented on how well she seemed to get on with everyone and that maybe she should live here next year. Toni surprised himself by responding and explaining he was here on scholarship and his funds were limited. Gladys seemed to be impressed that Toni had a scholarship and smiled as he went back to the table.

When they got back upstairs the girls were estatic. "You we wonderful with Gladys. See you passed the test with flying colors. Just wait till you see how your going to look this afternoon". Toni was bewildered by the events of the morning but felt somewhat at ease. Here I am, in a girls residence, a boys dream and these girls are fussing over me he was thinking to himself. No one back home is going to believe it!

The girls now informed Toni is was time to get serious about his appearance. Toni stripped to the waist and the girls set about to find a proper fitting bra. This done, one of the girls got her small breast forms; they were tried and then with adhesive attached to his chest. "Good Lord, she could pass for one of us right now" one of the girls commented.

"She does make a cute girl" Cindy replied. By now Toni’s face was red from embarrassment.

"I’m a guy, I can’t be looking that much like a girl, no way" he spoke up

"Oh yes you do and for the rest of today you ARE a girl. Just make your mind up to that" was Cindys reply. It didn’t take long with four girls helping , panty hose, slip, a blouse, a slim skirt and a pair of 1 ½ inch heels and Toni was about ready. Cindy handed him a small shoulder bag telling him to put his personal thing into it along with his makeup, comp and brush. As they started out Cindy told one of the girl to "get his male things and get rid of them so Gladys won’t find them"

By now Toni was caught up in the excitement of the morning and offered no resistance about leaving the Girls residence. In fact he kinda wanted to get away still fearing he would be found out. "Come on sweety, we’ve got some shopping to do."

Once outside Toni felt more at ease. As most of the students were preparing to go home for the summer no one paid any attention to the 4 girls as they headed down the street. As they walked along he was corrected now and then about his walk, his posture, just generally about his manner. "Your a girl now so act like one"

The shopping trip was a big confidence boast for Toni. With each purchase he grew more and more confident about himself. To the clerks he was just one of 4 college girls out on a shopping spree. He had gotten comfortable in the clothes, enjoyed being with the girls and actually found pleasure in all the activity. Such that when they stopped for lunch he was as talkative as the others.

Their last stop was at the beauty shop. The girls were all having their hair washed and styled and this included Toni. The girls had arranged this and had said nothing about it to Toni. They had also arranged for a professional make-over also. Toni was a bit stunned at the attention he was getting. But he was shocked when the woman doing the make-up quietly confided to him her knowledge of his ‘situation’. "Sweety, I don’t mean to hurt your feelings but when Cindy called and made the appointment I agreed to help her. But I certainly didn’t expect to have someone as cute and lovely to work on as you are. Even though she told me, I can’t believe your not a female. If your not you should have been" Toni didn’t know how to reply except to say "Thank You"

As they walked home Toni confided with the girls about what the woman had said. One of the girls stopped, looked Toni up and down and said, "you know she’s right. I don’t see Tony the boy, I see only Toni the girl". And with that all the girls gave Toni a hug and said "Welcome"

Gladys saw the girls as they entered the residence. "One last shopping spree" I see. "Toni did you get a good nights sleep? You seem to get on so well with the girls, you should join then next year" she asked

"Yes Mamm, I’d like to. I do like them" he replied

It was 4:00 They had one hour to get ready. Toni was the first to get ready. She began by replacing the borrowed bra with her own new one. By now the breast forms seemed so natural she even blushed a bit when she stripped and exposed them. "Look at her, she’s embarrassed to show her boobs!" Toni laughed. Next came the panty girdle which really embarrassed him. Then the slip, the textured black panty hose and finally the 3" heel black open toe slings. Finally the dress! A dark green mandarin collar short sleeve silk shift with slits to the thigh. It was a perfect dress for her. The girls gasped, "Look at that, She’s beautiful" Even Toni was amazed at the result. "Wait, I’ve got the perfect jewelry for her" one of the other girls said. She returned holding an Emerald tennis bracelet, Emerald cocktail ring, Emerald studs and a gold watch with a green face. "Here, Hon, wear these. There not real, just that fake stuff from Home Shopping, bought them 6 months ago on my Mother’s credit card and have never worn the stuff. They’re perfect with that dress"

Toni was then handed a black brocaded clutch purse to which she transferred her make-up and things. It was Cindy who suggested Toni go down stairs to the lounge and wait for them. When Toni asked about ‘his’ things one of the girls casually said "Oh I just got rid of them....out back in the dumpster. I didn’t think you’d need them any more" Toni’s heart dropped. He’d have to go back to his place and change after the party.

Downstairs Toni was greeted by Gladys. By now his fear of discovery had diminished to the point that he no longer became nervous. Gladys complimented Toni on her appearance adding "Your going to make a lovely date tonight Toni". Toni was offered a cold drink and accepted it. It was only a few more minutes before the girls came down and they headed for the party.

When the girls arrived they walked into an assortment of costumes and street clothes. Some of the drama students had worn their acting role clothes, some were dressed more formally as were the girls and some in just casual clothes. So four dressed up girls didn’t attract any real attention as most of the people were involved talking within a group. About then they spotted Robert in his tux and they approached him. Robert saw the girls as they came towards him. He looked at each one individually his eyes finally settling on Toni.

"Hi Robert, whatayou think?

"My God, what are you doing? Robert asked

"Well it all started with me in the charwoman thing but the girls talked me into this" Toni replied

" Tell him girls" Toni turned, the girls were gone, he saw them walking across the room. He was alone with Robert.

Toni then told Robert how it all began and the events that had led up to his arrival here. As they talked Robert became comfortable with the new appearance of his studymate. So much so that he got up from the table they had sat down at and got them both a soda. "I’m in shock. You look beautiful. I don’t know what to say"

Robert kept staring at Toni finally saying, "stand up,let me get a look at you". With that Toni rose, walked 2 steps away from the table, turned and came back this time sitting next to Robert. As she sat the split in the skirt exposed her leg to the thigh. Robert’s only comment was "You look beautiful"

Before Toni could respond a womans voice interrupted them"

"Robert, darling, there you are. Your Father and I have been looking for you. And who is this lovely girl?" It was Robert parents.

"Umm..this is ah...Tony, one of my classmates" he replied

"Is this the Toni you’ve been studying with, the tutor we sent money for? she asked looking directly at Toni.

Toni responded, "Yes mamm, I’m that Toni. It’s just that we were in the same class’s and Robert started asking me questions and well it just happened"

Robert tried to interrupt but his Mother said "Go, take your father and get us something to drink. I want to talk to this girl." This request bothered Toni and she became visibly nervous.

Robert’s Mother and Toni began their conversation. She explained how pleased they were with their sons improvement. He had regularly mentioned a "Toni" he was studying with and had referred to you as a friend. Toni tried to minimize his influence and related his own situation. "I am only here because of a scholarship and I have to keep grades up to keep it" Toni was getting a more nervous talking one on one with Robert’s Mother and was glad when Robert and his Father returned.

Robert’s mother looked at him and said "Go dance or something with this lovely girl. I want to talk with your Father" Robert obeyed, took Toni’s hand and walked over to the dance floor. As they began dancing Toni felt so warm inside. She was enjoying being in Robert’s arms.

"God, you even feel like a girl" Robert said in her ear. "Even smell like one"

"What are we gonna do" Toni asked

"Nothing. I got a lecture from Dad. They see you as the savior of my grades and my Father told me I had better listen to you. I told him you were just a friend, nothing more, OK?"

Robert was talking friend but his hands and body were speaking differently. By then Toni’s head was on Robert’s shoulder and Robert’s hand was pushing her close to him from the small of her back. The dance ended and they returned to the table hand in hand.

It was Robert’s Father who spoke this time. "My wife and I have been discussing your situation" Toni felt limp. Did they know! He went on "Your here on a scholarship so you must have been a good student before. And from what I gather your doing well now as well as helping Robert. So for as long as you two are students together starting next year we will pay you $300.00 per month for helping Robert with his studies".

Toni replied that was very generous. Robert’s Father went on. "We had already stopped at the Dean’s office before we came here. He had done so poorly last year and from early reports wasn’t doing well this year. Then suddenly he’s telling us that his grades are up. The Dean confirmed his improvement so you must have been what turned him around. So will you accept our offer?" Toni nodded and replied "Yes" Now it was his wife’s turn. "My child, we are adults. I want you to look me in the eye and answer this question" "Yes Mamm" Toni was now sure the jig was up. The question took him totally by suprise.

"Have you and Robert had sex?" Stunned Toni replied "Oh no Mamm, that wouldn’t be right" Of course a NO answer from Toni would be as true as rain. Robert’s mother turned to her husband and said "She’s telling the truth. It shows in her eyes" The ‘she’ caught Toni’s attention. They really thought he was Robert’s girlfriend.

"Now we have another offer. I own several business’s and I can offer you a job for the summer. You’ll earn much more than you could anywhere else, I’ll see to that. After all it’s in Robert’s best interest also that you stay in school. What do you say? We have a guest house that you would live in and could see Robert evenings and weekends." All the while he was talking Toni didn’t realize it but his head was nodding yes.

"There it’s settled. She nodded yes. Now child go find Robert and tell him the news. We’ll all have dinner tonight and call your family" Toni got up dumbfounded and went looking for Robert.

The girls who had been watching the whole time grabbed Toni’s hand and pulled her over and into the ladies room. "What was that all that about?" Toni started at the beginning and told them everything bit by bit. Even the sex question. "My god girl, what a great offer. You took it didn’t you?"

Toni responded that he didn’t get a chance to say NO. "And we’re calling my parents tonight to get their OK!! I’m dead".

It was Cindy who had the last word. " Have them drop you off at our place tonight. We’ll tell Gladys your spending the night again. See ya later. Oh, get the address so we can write you"

Toni noticed Robert was back at the table and walked over to join them. By now Robert must know his parents plan he reasoned. After a bit of small talk Robert’s parents got up to leave. They were having supper with EU staff and wanted Robert and Toni along. Toni was thankful Robert had rejected this saying he wanted to eat alone with Toni. So Robert was instructed to bring Toni by the Union at 8:30 so they could call her parents. They both sat in silence for a long while. Toni finally got up and said "I have to go to the bathroom" As she walked across the room it dawned on her she would have to use the ladies room again only this time she was alone. Panic stricken she went in. Thank God the stalls have doors she thought.

She checked her makeup before leaving. Whatever they used it’s forever he thought. As she arrived back at the table Robert asked, "Hungry?"

"Starved but I think if I eat I’ll get sick"

"Let’s get a cab and go somewhere"

"OK"

It wasn’t until they were at the restraunt that the subject came up. Robert spoke first. "Tony how could you let this happen. If my folks find out I’m dead meat, ruined, I don’t know what all"

"YOU, what about me! Your mother asked me if we were shacking up. I’m the one in a dress. I’m the one who could loose her scholarship" Suddenly Toni realized he had said her."There is still hope. My parents could say no to the summer thing. Regardless, I am accepting their offer for the next school year. I come from poor parents, I need the money. And besides I’m the best looking girl you’ve been with all year!" A woman got up from a table about 10 feet away. "Honey you tell him good. A girl as attractive as you are can always get what she wants!"

Robert spoke up meekly, "You do look beautiful tonight and my Parents think you are the greatest. My Father told me I was lucky to have a friend like you. You know, he’s right" Toni reached across the table and took Robert’s hand said "Thank You" Suddenly Toni felt like she could eat. The mood had changed. Robert was seeing Toni as a good friend, a female friend.

It was 8:45 when they got back to the Union. Robert’s parents were standing talking to the University President. They excused themselves and came over to Robert and Toni. Noticing they were holding hands, they smiled and said "let’s find a phone".

"Hello Mom. ....Yes it’s Tony........Oh everything’s fine............No......got better grades than the first semester.....get Dad on the phone too.......OK now here’s the story......You know that Robert I said I was helping study and earned some money, well his Parents have offered..........." Toni went on to explain the offer about the job and everything. When she finished Mr. Franklin took the phone and explained how he owned this and that and could do this and that. Then Mrs. Franklin got on the phone and was telling Toni’s parents "....how wonderful Toni was and how wonderful it was that this friendship was guiding two students through College......" Suddenly Toni’s heart sank. Reference to Toni for most of the conversation had been by name but then there were 3 references as she. But the conversation continued with Mrs. Franklin finally handing the phone to Toni and saying "your parents say it’s up to you, but it’s Yes as far as their concerned"

Toni took the phone and the first thing he heard from his parents was "honey, if you can put up with those pompous people, take the money and run. Things are not good here and I doubt you could even get a job on one of the farms. Their offer is one you can’t pass up" Toni agreed only wishing it was as Tony. But it was too late now. "OK Mom and Dad. I’ll write every week and call every other week. Bye". It was settled. Tony would be Miss Toni Winters, working girl for the summer. She hung up the phone wondering how could they have missed the reference to ‘her’ and ‘she’. Toni was really confused at this point. She had been sure her parents would nix a thing like this, I mean gone for the whole summer. They would say NO, she would go back to her room, dig out some clothes and take the greyhound home. But on the other hand, the thought of making a sizable amount of money over the summer was of interest to him. He could get an old car and fix it up during the school year, even get to go home on occasion. Well the die was cast, to back out now would cause real problems and questions.

The evening wasn’t over. Mr. Franklin suggested they go out to the Country Club and have a drink to celebrate the events. Afterall his son had just passed all his class’s and Toni should share in the celebration. At the Club Champaign was ordered and they toasted the end of the school year and the coming summer. Then Robert took Toni’s hand and said let’s dance. Robert was beginning to treat Toni just as he would any date. He even mentioned it would be great to have her around for the summer, what with the pool and tennis court and all. Only then did the realization of the summer set in. She was to work as a girl, go swimming, socialize all summer and in what!. The only female clothes she had were what she had on!!!!

As they returned to the table from the dance floor Toni overheard Mrs. Franklin comment to her husband. "I think our decision was a good one. I can see Robert worships her and she certainly has him in tow" If they only knew Toni thought to herself. The final arrangements were made. Toni made up an excuse she wanted to visit home first and then would go to the Franklins maybe in 3 or 4 days. For now Robert would go with his parents in the morning. Now she was tired an wished to go back to her residence (the girls residence) With arrangements made they took here home. Mrs. Franklin mentioned to Robert, "see how responsible she is. Her first thought was to visit her parents."

When they arrived at the residence Robert walked Toni to the door. "Well kid, I’ll see you in 4 or 5 days. Then Robert took Toni by the hands, said "this is for the benefit of the folks" and kissed her. The porch light went on. It was Gladys waiting. Toni opened the door and went in. Gladys said "I give a boy 2 minutes on the porch. If he hasn’t said his goodbye by then, he’s too slow."

The girls had heard Toni come in and yelled down "Come on up. We wanna hear everything" Gladys said, "Sign the guest book before you go up" After signing the book, Toni slipped off her shoes, picked them up and said "Ohhhh, that’s better" Then it was up to the girls room.

As soon as Toni arrived in the room it began to fill up with everyone who was still at the residence. The questions came from all directions. Toni was uncomfortable and slipped out of the dress. Now only in bra, slip and hose she just blended in with the rest of the girls. She began relating the events of the evening. For Cindy and her 2 friends it was a repeat but they listened anyway. As the saga unfolded their were questions: "you mean his old man will pay you $300 a month to study with him?, really, a job for the summer? stay with them-pool-tennis? did he kiss you good night? did he try anything else? When Toni answered ‘no’ to that question one of the girls commented "he must be gay" Toni blushed on that answer.

"Boy oh boy. We really did a good job. One day in a dress and she’s got a boyfriend, a job, and 2 financial benefactors" was Cindy’s comment. Toni knew this wasn’t true. A Tony would have gotten the same offer. After all it was Tony the boy who had helped Robert. But it was Toni the girl who had to accept it. Toni then expressed his doubts. Maybe he should just write the Franklins a letter saying his Mother is sick or something. "No they’d call your home" one of the girls said. He could just go home and explain everything and let the folks tell some story. No that would never work.

"Toni, right now we all see you as on of the girls. This is a wonderful opportunity for you. Just do it, Right gang?" There was a universal "YES"

"Well if I’m gonna be a girl for the summer, I’m gonna have to do some thrift-store shopping" he announced. She then added "this isn’t going to work. Sure, I passed at the party and all but 24 hours a day for the whole summer, I mean like they’re gonna find out!"

One of the other girls spoke up. "Toni, you’ve already passed the hard part. It’s now just a matter of being yourself except in a dress. In no time everything will just come natural. Just try to look your best each day. From what Cindy has said Gladys came up and you were almost naked. Well?"

"Ya, I guess your right. I could really use the money and everything and I’d wouldn’t come close to that kind of money back home". Toni was hooked and didn’t realize it. The girls told his that in the morning they will have gathered up several outfits, skirts, blouses, dress’s, shoes and some accessories that will get her by for a couple of weeks. They also informed her that when they got home they would go through their closets and send her things. One of them said "It’s a good excuse for Mother to buy me a new wardrobe!" Another added her Father owned a Drugstore and "I’ll send you some skin care products and thing you can use." Toni slipped into a borrowed nightgown and was soon asleep.

Toni awoke late to an almost empty house. After finishing in the bathroom he returned to the room. On top of a neat pile of clothes was a note. ‘Here is a skirt, blouse and shoes for you to wear, Make-up is in purse. Take the green suitcase it’s yours The Girls" She thought better about trying to remove the breast forms so she put on the bra and slip, then the blouse and skirt, slipped on the flats, added a bit of lipstick and with suitcase in hand started down the stairs. Just as she reached the door Gladys greeted her, said how nice it was to have her as a guest and hoped to see her next semester. All Toni could muster was "Yes Mamm"

The clock tower struck noon as she walked the 4 blocks back to her residence. As she went up the stair to the porch she was greeted by her landlady, Mrs Wilson. "Oh it’s you Tony. I was so worried about you. Are you still dressed from the party?"

"Ah...No Mamm....it’s like this...ah...first of all........" Toni went to explain how the girls had helped him dress and then went to the party. And he had met Roberts parents, the student he had always studied with, and they were so nice. He explained how they offered him money to help Robert next year and gave me a job over the summer and how they had talked to his parents and gotten permission for him to stay with them and how they were so rich and thankful that Robert had passed. He finished up with "and all my clothes somehow had gotten thrown away or something so he had to come home in this pointing to the skirt and blouse.

Just then Cindy and Beth walked up to the house carrying a hanger with the party dress and a bag hanging on it. "You forgot this Toni" Toni introduced the girls and explained they were the one’s who had helped him. They had no sooner said ‘pleased to meet you’ and they began leaving. "Just watch for the mail - care package to come" were their final words.

As they went into the house Toni, looking for the box his clothes were in asked Mrs. Wilson where they were. "One of the boys leaving with his parents noticed your name and address on them and asked if you needed a ride home. It seems that they were going right through your home town. When I explained you were going to ship them by greyhound they said they would deliver them and save you the money. They went early this morning" she explained.

Toni was disappointed. "Well I’m stuck like this until monday morning when the bank opens" It really didn’t upset her too much, she had been in a skirt for three days now, stayed overnight twice in a girls residence and was now standing in front if Mrs. Wilson wearing girl clothes. She held up the hanger with the dress and as she showed it to Mrs. Wilson said "This is what I wore to the Party".

"You never did come by and show me how you looked. Are you hungry?" Toni replied she was starved adding "haven’t even had coffee today yet"

"Well no one else is in the house, why don’t you go and freshen up and you can show me how you looked while we eat lunch" she suggested. Toni went upstairs and opened the suitcase. It was packed full of skirts, blouses. dress’s, nightgowns and even a bathing suit. A note read "GOOD LUCK THIS SUMMER" and it was signed by each one of the girls. Toni washed herself off, dryed and then decided to pit some makeup on. Not too much he reminded herself . A touch off foundation, some blush, eyeliner, fill in the brows and the lipstick. This is good practice for the Franklins she thought. Off came the slip and on went the dress. In the bag were the shoes and another bag that had the ring, watch and bracelet. She slipped her feet into the slings. Taking a brush, she went through her hair. "It evens looks better loose like this" she thought to herself.

Gladys called out "LUNCH IS READY"

"ONE MINUTE" Then gathering her courage she headed downstairs. With a soft voice she said "Well this how I looked" and just stood there one foot in front of the other. Then doing a 180 turn she turned back and went over and sat at one of the place settings.

"My gracious child, your beautiful. Your as lovely as any girl on the campus. Are you sure your not really a girl? I’ve helped many of the boys over the years dress up for Halloween and none of them ever looked like this".

All Toni could say was "Thank you" Toni sat with her les crossed at the ankles and began eating. As lunch progressed Toni related the events of the last 3 days to Mrs. Wilson only now in more detail. Her only omissions were that she had stayed at a girls residence and that Robert’s parents did not know she was not a she. Mrs. Wilson could not help but notice how feminine Toni seemed bot in appearance and manner. "Well you certainly had an eventful time. How was the Party?"

Toni explained " it was nice." She told how they praised the performances and all the work done by the difference stage crews. "You know the usual stuff said to make people feel good. It was fun" With lunch finished Toni helped clear the table and they went into the living room. Mrs. Wilson mentioned how great it was that Tony would have a good job for the summer. She knew how difficult it had been financially for him and the prospect of an income during the next school year would certainly be a big boast. "Helping Robert won’t leave you much time for social things, will it?" And then as an afterthought she handed Toni a letter. "This came for you in the morning mail. I was going to forward it to your home"

The letter was from the scholorship board and was simply requesting verification that he had achieved the required GPA and would be in school the next school year. A quick visit to the Registrar’s office on Monday was all that was needed he reasoned. Mrs. Wilson asked how he thought his grades were and was pleased when she told her that she had done better the second term. "I’m sure your parents were happy to hear that." Toni remarked that they were also very happy about the summer job. She explained that her parents had said things were down back home and getting any kind of job would have been dificult.

They were on their second cup of coffee when Mrs. Wilson had a visitor. Her friend, another housemother from another block came by to invite her to go to the early movie in town. "All the kid’s are gone so the show won’t be crowded and it’s only a dollar" she announced Her attention then turn to Toni. "And who is this lovely girl? I’m Betty from the Bedford House on Chambers street"

Mrs. Wilson quickly said "This is Tony. Tony is a late departing student who is just finishing up some personal business before leaving Campus"

"Very nice to meet you Toni"

"Pleased to meet you Betty"

"Toni, why don’t you join us at the movie. With the campus deserted there’s not much to do except a movie"

"Oh, thank you but.........." It was Mrs. Wilson who said "Sure, come with us. We’ll have a nice time out. Besides your all ready dressed to go out" Her suggestion suprised Toni. She had instinctly wanted to go but was saying no for fear of what Mrs. Wilson might think. And besides it was good practice for the summer. "OK then, I’ll go"

Toni went up and freshened her makeup and nailpolish. She realized she was enjoying her current situation and no longer felt ashamed or nervous. In fact she kinda admired the person she saw in the mirror. Yes, she was as attractive as the girls she saw on campus.

Mrs. Wilson had gotten dressed up and as they went out to Betty’s car together they could have passed as Mother and Daughter. The evening went well; the show and the snack afterwards. Most of the conversation concerned Toni who explained her summer plans and how she looked forward to the fall semester. By the end of the evening both Toni and Mrs. Wilson were at ease so much so that no ‘he’ slip was made. Toni was ‘she ‘ or ‘her’ in Mrs. Wilson conversation. The evening went without incident and Toni was please. Maybe she could survive the summer.

Toni awoke early. She had slept in only a sheer nightgown and was suprised how well the breast forms were surviving. They showed no signs of loosening. Then dressing in the long skirt, blouse and flats she had worn home she went downstairs. Coffee was ready. As she sat with coffee and toast, Mrs. Wilson came into the kitchen. "Well what are the plans for the day?"

Toni explained "Well, gotta get some money from the bank when it opens, pick up some clothes probably at a thrift store, file my scholorship papers and make arrangements to visit home" Mrs. Wilson pointed out it was a shame she had missed the family, the ones that took his boxes. "Oh ya, I gotta call home and explain about the boxes"

As Toni started the 6 blocks to the business district she cut through the campus. Noticeing the Administration Building was open she went in. After inquiring where to go about the scholorship she was directed to a large office on the main floor. An elderly woman and a young girl were at desks behind the counter. It was the young girl who came to the counter. "I need to find out what to do about this scholorship paper. This is my first with one of these" he inquired.

The girl looked at the forms and acknowledged she could help her. "It’s good your doing this now. Most everybody waits until they come back to campus before fileing it and then they have to pay some tuition and buy their books. They don’t get the refund till Thanksgiving." She took the form, motioned for Toni to come around and went to the desk. Putting the form in a typewriter she asked Toni’s last name and went and pulled a card from a drawer. "Oh good grades- just math is missing"

"I’ll get an A in that" she replied. Is this address correct? 276.........." Toni spoke up. "No, I’ll be at ......" taking a card from her purse gave the Franklins address. "Luckily I was offered a good job for the summer away from home. I really need the money"

It was just about then that the girl said "Oh, I recognize you" Toni’s heart jumped to her throat. "I was at the Drama party Saturday, I saw you there. I’m in class’s ahead of you. I’v’ been lucky too. This is my second summer working for the school. Next week there will be 6 of us. We’re putting all the manual records on computer. Then we’ll be correcting mistakes in the record. So you’ll be one of the first." She finished typing the form, attached the envelope with a note and told Toni that when the math grade came in she would finish it and send it off. "You should get the vouchers before school starts. That way you won’t need any money at registration. Good huh?."

Toni was all smiles. He thanked the girl for all her help and information finally getting her name, Sandy.

"Good Luck this summer". "You too"

Toni now headed towards town and the bank. The clerk gave her a raised eyebrow when she said she did’t have the savings passbook but finally after looking at her student ID and a signature comparison she got the $150.00 she wanted. "May I have a roll of quarters? I have to make a call home" This task done Tony stopped for coffee. For the first time he noticed the small vile in her purse containing several small pink pills. A short note was folded and secured with a rubber band. "These will help your skin and everything. Take 6 a day,2,2,2 Send you more. Beth" Toni counted them -60, for ten days. She took 4.

It was decided to make the call home first before any clothing purchases or travel arrangements. Toni’s first instincts were to go home , explain the whole situation to her parents and then ....what..........? The call home helped the decision. They knew his plans about a car and this opportunity would provide him with the money for school and the car. He could drive home at the end of summer and visit. And with the car he would be able to visit even during the semester. No he wouldn’t need anything in the boxes he sent home. "Those clothes weren’t suitable for the job he would be doing." (How true that statement was) The summer program was set. He would go straight to the Franklin’s.

 

...........to be continued........

 

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