The Flower Girl (Complete Story) (Patreon)

The Flower Girl

Chapter 1

My Part In The Wedding

I knew turning up at their house this late would be rude, but I’d known Jess and Kevin for years. This Saturday, the two of them are finally getting bloody married! Being the person that introduced them, I felt like I had a part in the love they’ve found in each other.

I’m sure the two of them can offer me a comfy bed for the night. They owe me at least that!

Approaching the door, I quickly flatten down my disheveled hair. I really didn’t want them knowing I’d been sleeping in my car the last few nights. They’d only worry and I don’t want to mess anything up for them.

I planned to make myself useful in some way. So useful in fact, they’d beg for me to stay! I’m sure there’s probably a tone of balloons to blow up or wedding favors to sort. Ethier way, I can’t spend another night in my car. I think my back is about to break. Sometimes it sucks to be over six feet tall.

Knocking firmly on the door, I put on a big smile. As the door creaks open, Jess pears around the door.

“Steven…?” She questions as she fully opens the door and gives me a smile.

“Oh hey, Jess!” I reply back, putting a foot into the doorway. “I’ve come to offer my services and help out with the wedding plans!”

As Jess steps aside, I walk past her giving a silly wide grin. As she closes the door behind her, I take off my jacket and hang it on a nearby coat hook.

“Come in….,” Jess sarcastically grumbles, as I finish hanging my jacket. “Y’know, you should really call ahead.”

Reaching out and placing a hand gently on her shoulder, I give her the biggest smirk.

“Naaah…..,” I answer back. “We are like family….no?”

Tilting her head to onside, she throws me quiet the unimpressed face.

“Steven,” she lectures. “You and Kevin aren’t students anymore. We are about to be a married couple. There are boundaries.”

Slowly taking my hand away from her shoulder and allowing it to fall to my side, I allow my shoulders to sag.

“Kevins my best friend,” I softly reply. “I know things are going to be different, but what kind of best friend would I be if I didn’t offer to help out.”

Stepping closer to me, Jess gives me a much softer friendlier look. Comforting me, she gently places a hand on my side.

“It’s hard huh?” She asks. “Not being the best man or even an usher at your best friend's wedding.”

Dropping my head, I let out a long sigh. It did suck. It sucked big time!

“Kevin wanted to have you as the best man,” she continues, now touching my chin and lifting my head. “He’s unfortunately bound by family tradition. You know his brothers take those roles. Don’t make it harder for him. He already feels awful about it.”

As she lifts my gaze, our eyes meet. She looks at me with complete understanding. She’s a firecracker normally, but Jess really does have a heart of gold. She’s perfect for Kevin and that does make me very happy.

“Can I at least help with something tonight?” I ask as we share a moment together.

With a waft of her long brown hair, Jess lets go of my chin and smirks.

“Sure slugger!” she says with a chuckle. “We’re just folding paper cranes at the moment. We need one thousand for the wedding. You can help!”

“Cranes..?” I ask with excitement as she leads me into the family room. “I’m guna fold the crap out of them there cranes!”

As we make our way into the family room, Jess continues walking into the nearby kitchen. Before she leaves, she points Kevin out to me. No surprise, Kevin is vegging on the sofa. As the TV blares out, he’s not watching, but concentrating on something in his hands.

“Hey dude,” I greet him, as I help myself to the armchair facing the sofa.

Looking up for a moment, Kevin grits his teeth with frustration.

“Steve,” he moans at me, in greeting back. “You any good at doing these dam paper cranes..!?”

Looking down at the coffee table, a box full of cranes and instructions on how to fold them sit out on view. I take one from the box and hold it between my fingers.

“Not really….,” I comment, as I lean over to read the folding instructions. “Will give it ago, but why are you doing this?”

With a roll of his eyes and a huff, Kevin stops and slumps in the chair.

“Y’know…,” he replies, giving me a secret nod in Jess’s direction.

I knew what he was getting at, but I still looked over in Jess’s direction. Lucky for me, She was standing behind the kitchen counters and talking with someone on the phone. She wasn’t listening in.

“Jess’s idea…?” I ask with a chuckle.

“Yup,” he whispers in reply. “She’s into all this mumbo jumbo.”

Looking back at him nervously, I lean in to whisper back. “I’ve heard she practice’s witchcraft. Is that true?”

Kevin then quickly checks Jess is not looking and gives me a nod in confirmation. I give him a wide smile and slide back into my chair.

“Don’t worry,” he says, waving his hand. “She’s not into turning people into frogs or anything.”

Picking up the box of cranes, he leans it in my direction so I can see just how many fill the box.

“It’s good luck,” he tells me, as I look in wonderment at the sheer amount of folded paper littering the box. “It’s said, one thousand paper cranes will bring the marrying couple good luck.”

“Oooh,” I reply, nodding my head in understanding.

Pointing at a stack of small colored paper squares, Kevin returns to folding the crane in his hand.

“Please help,” he commands.

“Sure…,” I answer, “At least this way, I’m part of your wedding,” I continue with subconscious frustration in my tone.

With that last comment a little more snarky than I meant, Kevin looks up at me unimpressed. I could see him slowly judging me and getting angry at the same time.

“Dude….,” he groans. “I thought we’d had this conversation.

Rubbing his forehead, Kevin looks up to the ceiling and sighs.

“I am really sorry,” he continues. “You know how it had to be. I asked if you could be an extra usher, but my family was quite clear and insistent that I don’t.

Surrendering with raised hands, I nod my head.

“I know,” I answer with understanding. “I-I’m just a little disappointed. Things have been pretty rough recently, I’m sorry for saying anything.”

Lowering his head, Kevin’s expression looks serious.

“How have things been since you lost your mom?” He delicately asks. “She was your only family, right?”

Not wanting those feelings too well up inside me, I look away from Kevin's gaze. He didn’t want to see me cry and nor did I want them to see it. Rubbing my chin, I look up to the ceiling and take a deep breath in.

“It’s getting better,” I lie to him, hoping to shut down the conversation.

Getting up from his chair and leaning over the coffee table, Kevin extends a hand and playfully slaps me on the knee.

“If you need us,” he says, holding his hand on my knee in comfort. “All you need do is ask.”

“Thanks…du”

“Ah….Crap!” Jess yells, interrupting me.

Slamming her phone onto the counter, we both give her a worried look. As she stamps into the living room from the kitchen, Kevin gives me a very concerned look.

“What's wrong, sweety?” Kevin inquires, as Jess throws herself onto the sofa next to him, in a big huff. “Who was that on the phone?”

“It’s ruined!” Jess sobs, as she throws her face into Kevin's chest.

As her face thuds against his chest, Kevin looks at me with wide eyes. I didn’t know how to help. The best I can do is shake my head at him. She’s not my wife to be!

“Jess….?” He then says softly, lifting her from his chest, by her shoulders. “Tell me what's wrong, we may be able to help.”

As their eyes meet, Kevin gives her a comforting smile. “Hello there,” he says with a giggle.

Wiping away the tears from her face, Jess then throws herself back and with folded arms. Slumping into the sofa, she lets out a groan.

“They're not coming!” she exclaims, with another huff.

Placing his hand onto her knee, Kevin leans in towards her.  “Who’s not coming?” he questions, as he wipes away a tear from her cheek.

I watch as Jess’s eyes stare daggers at Kevin. She had that look about her. Like she wanted to punch the next person who spoke. Not even I’m that stupid to speak up right now.

“Jenny and her daughter Sophia!” Jess growls and thumps a fist against the knee Kevin wasn’t touching.

Her anger makes Kevin flinch backward.

“That means we don’t have a flower girl!” she cries. “How can we have the ceremony now!?”

“Do we really need one?” Kevin questions, and immediately regrets his decision.

The daggers in her eyes quickly turn to sharpened swords. I had to hold back the laughter at Kevin's stupidity. Rookie mistake!

“Of course we bloody need one!” she screams and pushes Kevin back. “The flower girl was a vital part of it all! Now it’s ruined. We don’t have anyone else!”

Like that, Kevin slumps back onto the sofa dejected. I could see the fear in his eyes.

Being his best friend, I knew I had to say or do something to take the heat from him. I think a part of me wanted to show him what a great best man I would have been.

Pulling a smirking face, I try to break the tension by telling a joke. “I wanna be part of your wedding. Can I be the flower girl?”

Kevin's reaction tells me all I need to know. He instantly starts shaking his head in disbelief. I think he knew I was about to get swung at by his fiancé. Still, I was taking it for the team!

“That’s brilliant!” Jess unexpectedly yells out with a heavy clap of her hands. “Would you really do that for us, Steve!?”

My jaw almost dropped to the floor. I looked at Kevin, who was also completely gobsmacked.

“Jess darling…,” Kevin mutters cautiously. “I think he might have been joking. How can Steven be a flower girl?”

With me nodding in agreement to Kevin's statement, I soon realize Jess hasn’t stopped staring at me. I could feel her burning a hole right through me.

“Did you really mean it?” Jess asks, leaning in towards me with a hopeful look in her eyes. “You wanted to be part of the wedding and everything!”

Leaning back from her, like she’s gone crazy, I pull a wry smile.

“Well, I mean I do want to be part of your wedding yeah……b-bu”

With another clap on her hands, interrupting me mid-sentence, she gives me the widest smile I’ve ever seen.

“That’s amazing Steven!” she cheers and gently bounces in her seat. “Wow, I never thought you’d be man enough to do anything quite like this!”

With real concern, I give Kevin a sharp look.

“Sweety,” Kevin says trying to calm her down. “I think Steven was jo….”

Interrupting once again, Jess jumps from her seat. It was lovely to see her so excited, but both me and Kevin knew it was all going to come crashing down. I’d be the ugliest flower girl ever. More like the flower ogre!

“You live alone….right!?” Jess instantly stops to interrogate me.

“Ummm,” I mummer, not wanting the truth about my homelessness to come out. “Yeah…sure…alone.”

Clearly satisfied with my answer, Jess just wonders off, nodding her head. Confused by what's happening, I shrug my shoulders at Kevin.

“Sweety..?” Kevin calls out to Jess, obviously confused himself. “What does Stevens's housing arrangements have anything to do with us now not having a flower girl for the wedding?”

Jess, now head deep into a large kitchen cupboard, turns back to face us with a grin.

“Well,” she says as her grin becomes wider. “A  nine-year-old is not going to be able to live alone now, are they?”

“Hunny…?” Kevin moans desperately to understand and clearly getting a little embarrassed.

As Kevin rushes over to his wife, Jess pulls out a dirty-looking bottle from the cupboard. The sort of bottle you’d expect to see in a Harry Potter movie. Holding up the bottle to both of us, she glides back into the living room. Poor Kevin can only stumble behind her as he tries to keep up.

“That settles it then,” she says smiling directly at me. “You can stay with us until the wedding. Is that ok with you?”

Stoked that I’d got my invitation to stay, I give myself a mental high five. Still, I wasn’t quite sure how I’d pulled it off. My flower girl joke was exactly that, a joke. Still, I guess amusing them both is better than sleeping in the car.

“Yeah, that’s fine” I answer nonchalantly.

“Great!” Jess exclaims, thrusting the dirty bottle into my hands. “I mean, you wouldn’t have had a choice. A nine-year-old girl can’t fend for herself.”

Taking hold of the dirty bottle, it feels almost slimy to touch. Rolling it in my hands, I read the label.

“Claochlu potion,” I read out loud. “What's this for?” I ask.

Before Jess can answer, Kevin pops up from behind her. Pushing in between us, he gives Jess a stern look.

“I know what you're suggesting and you can’t be serious!?” he states passionately, waving his hands. “We can’t ask him to do this. I don’t even think he knows what you are capable of!”

Still holding the bottle in my hands, I look up at Jess. She’s peering around Kevin and giving me a smile. As Kevin steps aside, they both gaze into my eyes.

“Steven,” Jess says calmly. “Drinking that potion will allow you to be part of the wedding. If you drink it, you will transform into a nine-year-old girl for exactly seven days.”

Rolling the bottle back and forwards in my hands, I look at them both and want to laugh. I wanted to believe she was joking, but their serious expressions made me think what she was telling me was true.

“Y-you….,” I say stumbling on my words. “You actually want me to be the f-flower girl?”

Jess nods with a wide grin. Kevin shakes his head and sighs.

“Can this really happen?” I ask in amazement. “If I drink this, I will become a little girl?”

“Yeah,” Jess answer back quickly, egging me on to drink it.

No way in hell would I agree to transform into a little girl. I couldn’t think of anything worse! The long hair, the frilly dresses. Don’t get me started on losing my manhood. As I go to scream no, at the top of my voice, I find a part of my brain thinking differently.

I look down at the bottle and start weighing up the facts.

As much as being a girl wouldn’t be ideal, it’s only for seven days. That’s seven days of being fed and having a roof over my head. That’s also seven days of not worrying about my own life! Being part of the wedding, now that’s the cherry on top and these guys would forever owe me one!

“You’ll let me stay here?” I ask Jess directly as I pull the cork from the bottle.

With widening eyes, she nods. “Yeah silly! If you’re a little girl, we will have to look after you!”

Raising the bottle to my lips, I could smell the almost off milk aroma radiating from it. Looking Jess dead in the eye, I stop just shy from my lips.

“So just to be clear,” I say, wanting to clarify the deal. “If I drink this stuff, you will let me stay. No matter what happens?”

“Wait!” Jess screams and throws her arms out. “I forgot to tell you the most important part!”

Lowering the bottle, I let out a sigh of relief. The smell was really starting to make me gag.

“What is it?” I ask impatiently.

“When you drink that down,” she replies, pretending to drink the bottle. “You must want and wish to become a nine-year-old girl!”

“Sure sure….,” I reply back, not really believing any of this to be true. I just knew if I got this stuff down. The deal was I could stay.

Bring the bottle back to my lips, I allow the putrid-tasting liquid to flow into my mouth. The texture was something like custard, but the taste was like nothing I’d ever experienced. As I struggled to swallow it down, I could feel my gag reflect flaring up.

Forcing my way through, almost like downing a beer, I manage to get the entire bottle into my body. Thinking about myself as a little girl the entire time, I lower the bottle and wipe the excess from my lips.

“That was……,” I say, then let out a horrible tasting burp. “Absolutely disgusting!”

Waving away the smelly burp, Kevin looks at me in disbelief.

“Steven,” he says with a sigh. “I can’t believe you just drank that.”

Putting the bottle to one side, I give him a playful smile. “I’d do anything for you bro,” I say triumphantly.

Without giving Kevin a second to reply to me, Jess had already grabbed my hand and started pulling me through the house. It was almost like I was a ticking bomb, ready to explode. Struggling to keep up with her, she pushes me into the downstairs toilet. Slamming the door behind me, I’m left bemused as to what's going on.

“Jess..?” I question through the closed door. “Why..?”

Jess says something to me back, but my concentration is broken by the immensely strange feelings scratching away at my body. It felt like a thousand needles poking me at once. Each and every inch of my skin felt like it was on fire.

“Argh!” I cry out as my stomach churns. “Is this supposed to hurt so bad!”

Once again, Jess says something to me through the door, but I’m unable to concentrate on what she’s saying.

Folding over with the pain, I feel my body shrinking and contracting. As the stomach pain faded, I felt like a black hole had formed at the center of my body. My entire being felt like it was being crushed by the black hole at my center. Being pushed and pulled into the middle of my body.

“F-F-Fuck!” I scream as my shrinking legs give way underneath me.

Now laying on the floor, I couldn’t help but wish for this experience to end. What was in the drink!? She’s gone and poisoned me!

The next thing I know, the sensations intensify. Unforutatlaly for me, it’s localized to a particular area. It was like going through puberty at a million miles an hour but in complete reverse. I felt my balls shrink and absorb back into my body. I felt my manhood shrivel and creep inside of me. It left me completely mortified!

Screaming out as loud as I could, I felt my deep voice get higher and higher. It was like someone was adjusting the pitch of my voice. Continuing to turn the dial until I was letting out the girliest scream of my life.

My screaming was only stopped by the feeling of hair bursting from my head. As I lay on the floor, it felt like someone had thrown a towel over me. Soon my vision was completely covered by strands of lush hair.

As the pain receded, I knew my body was different. I could feel the emptiness between my legs. I could feel the weight of long hair on my head. My body felt light. It felt fragile. I felt very small. My clothes covered me like a blanket.

“Steven..!?” Jess cries on the other side of the door. “Has it finished!?”

No words leave my body, just a quiet high-pitched squeak.

That’s when I see the door burst open. Jess stands over me, looking very concerned. I look up at her and she seems like she’s grown massive in those few minutes. In fact, everything seems massive. The ceiling now looks a million miles away.

“Kevin!” Jess shouts behind her. “Can you go get one of my small t-shirts?”

With her attention now on me, she starts rummaging to free me from my now-massive clothing Pulling me free of my old shirt, she’s able to pick me up with no fuss. Her hands felt gigantic on my sides. It was almost like she was a giant compared.

“Jess….?” I say with a girly whine. “I feel funny.”

As she allowed my feet to touch the floor, I look down at myself for the first time. Having to brush strands of hair from my eyes, my body is completely transformed. Running my small hands down my baby smooth skin, I reach between my legs. My eyes grow wide ` panic, as nothing is to be found.

“Oh Hunny,” Jess says with a comforting tone, brushing hair behind my ear. “Kevin’s just getting you one of my shirts to wear until we can get some more fitting clothes.”

“Am…am I really a girl now?” I ask, with childish and girly innocence.

Grabbing my hand tight, Jess kneels in front of me and looks into my eyes.

“Yeah,” she says softly. “It’s going to be hard for maybe a day or two, but you will soon get used to the change.”.

As I stare into her eyes, I could feel tears welling in mine.

“I’m not a man anymore…!?” I whine as I lose control of my emotions. “Change me back!”

That’s when Kevin appears behind Jess, pink feminine t-shirt in hand. I instantly feel super embarrassed as my friend see’s me like I am for the first time.

“Don’t look at me!” I scream out, tears now streaming from my eyes.

“Shit!” Kevin yells and points. “Is that really Steven!?”

Trying my best to hide, I start to panic. I’m completely naked with hair cascading down my back. My brain felt like it wanted to explode.

“Kevin!” Jess shouts, with fury, pointing in his direction. “Go and sit down. This is going to be a massive change for him and he’s doing it for us!”

Trying my best to hide, I don’t see Kevin storm off, but I hear his stomps of frustration. A second later, I felt clothes being forced over my head. Throwing my arms out, Jess soon has me overpowered and my arms up into the sleeves.

Her pink shirt was massive on me. It was like a dress, falling all the way past my knees. Still, It was comforting not to be naked anymore.

“Come here!” Jess says, pulling me towards her with little resistance from me.

Now feeling completely emasculated, wearing Jess’s shirt that smelt faintly of her perfume, she embraces me tight like I’m the tiniest little person.

Still sobbing, I bury my head into her shoulder.

“You're taking this really well!” Jess says gently, stroking my long hair. “I’m here for you. Any questions about being a girl, don’t hesitate to ask.”

As lovely as that sentiment was, I hated hearing it. It just reinforced the facts about what I’d given up and what I’ve become.

Pulling away from her embrace, I stand in front of her. She’s still kneeling on the floor to be at my height.

“I think I need a stiff drink,” I say, wiping the tears from my face.

Giving me a wide smile, Jess tilts her head to one side. Not answering, she pulls her cell from her pocket and snaps a quick picture of me. A little annoyed, I’m super curious as she turns the phone to show me. Standing in the picture is the cutest little girl. A cute button face with long brown hair.

“This is me,” I say, touching the phone.

“Sure is!” Jess says, sliding the phone away. “Can you see why I can’t let you have any alcohol?”

“Cos I’m a kid..?” I reply, happy that I knew the answer.

“That’s right sweety,” she continues with a wide smile.

Reaching behind me, she places her hand gently on my head.  “You wanna have a hot chocolate?” she asks, standing up and holding her hand out for me to hold.

Reaching up for her large hand, she grasps me tight. Leading me back into the family room, she picks me up off the floor and rests me gently on the sofa. Sitting up, my legs splay out in front of me, not long enough to make it to the floor.

“Kevin!” Jess shouts once more, as she stands up and walks towards him. “Can you go to the shop and pick up some stuff?”

Appearing like a flash, I watch Kevin anxiously nod.

“What do we need?” he asks, not wanting to get in trouble with his fiancé.

“We need to get Steven some clothes,” Jess says, grabbing a nearby pen and scribbling on the back of an opened envelope. “Some underwear, some tights, some socks, some days dresses, and some pajamas.”

“Right!” Kevins says, taking hold of the list. “Just any style?”

“Just get what they have!” Jess replies. “Oh, check the sizes. You want years eight to nine years.”

As Kevin grabs his jacket and heads for the door, Jess comes back over to me and kneels in front of me. I could barely believe this was happening. If it wasn’t for my tiny legs and feet poking out of the end of one of Jess’s shirts, I wouldn’t believe it was real.

“Steven,” she says with a smile. “Do you want to pick a more appropriate name?”

Awkwardly brushing hair from my eyes, I give Jess a blank look.

“Choose myself a girl's name?” I ask, bouncing my feet with excitement.

“Yeah!” Jess replies with the same enthusiasm. “I like the name, Emily. Would you like that name?”

“I do! I yell back, with a big smile on my face.

“Emily it is then!” Jess replies as her face becomes one of curiosity. “I wasn’t expecting you to instantly like the name Emily…?”

“It was my mom's name,” I reply, looking bashfully down at the big heart design on the front of my t-shirt.

Placing her hand on my head once more, Jess giggles. “I’m sure you are going to make a great Emily!” she says.

“Yeah…..?” I answer with little confidence. “I’m not feeling good about myself right now. I have no idea about being a girl.”

I hoped that I didn’t seem too excited by the prospect of being called Emily. It was funny that she suggested that name. With my mom no longer with us, it was fitting that I’d carry her name for the time being. It actually made me feel pretty good. With this change, I felt much closer to her than I’d ever had before. And that’s not just because I’m now sporting the same gender.

Running her hand down my face and bopping me gently on my nose, Jess giggles.

“Look,” she says as her smile becomes a little more serious. “I will teach you about being a little girl. You don’t have to worry. All I need you to do is be a good girl and listen…ok?”

“What if….I let you both down and mess up?” I reply as I feel the tears welling up once more.

“No way!” Jess says throwing her hands into the air. “A little cutie like you could never do any wrong!”

“Oh ok!” I cheer. “Can I have that hot chocolate now?”

“Sure Stev….,” she says with a pause. “Sure Emily. It’s the least I can do to thank you for this!”

“Thanks!” I cheer, with such youthful feminity in my voice. “Do you want me to fold some cranes now?”

Sitting forward, the shirt I’m wearing as a dress gets caught. It reveals to me how young my body has become. Frowning, I try to ignore it and focus on the instructions for folding the cranes.

Having to stretch and reach across the coffee table, which now seemed absolutely massive to me, I grab hold of some paper and start folding away.

“Thanks, Emily,” Jess cheers as she comes back into the room and places a hot chocolate in front of me. “Just be careful Hunny, It’s going to be hot!”

Taking a second to look up from my folding, I give Jess a sour look.

“I may look like a nine-year-old,” I moan. “Please try not to treat me like one.”

“Okay!” Jess says, rolling her eyes. “You are going to have to get used to it though. It’s going to ponytails and dresses for you for the next few days!”

With a childish Huff, I look away.

“This is going to suck…,” I groan.

Kneeling down in front of the coffee table, Jess reaches for a fresh paper square.

“Don’t worry, being a girl is not so bad” she says concentrating on folding. “We are certainly going to owe you big time after this. You really are a great friend. I don’t think Kevin would have transformed for you.”

“You don’t think so?” I ask, pulling my t-shirt down to cover my legs.

Lifting her face to give me a wide smile, Jess giggles.

“Probably not,” she says playfully shaking her head. “Maybe when you get married, we can discuss him being your flower girl?”

With a devious grin, I look back down at my attempt to fold a paper crane. I was deffo going to hold her to that thought. I just hope I don’t get stuck like this!

Chapter 2

My First Day A Girl

Leaving me to adjust, Jess left me to it. I was quite happy watching trash TV and folding the paper cranes. It really took my mind off the fact that between my legs, I’d lost my lifelong companion. Every so often hair would fall in front of my eyes, but other than that, I’d almost forgotten I’m now a nine-year-old girl.

As the front door opens and thuds closed, my attention was soon brought back to Jess and Kevin.

“I’ve got some stuff,” Kevin shouts out, as he struggles to enter the living room clutching a few plastic bags.

I watch him place the bags onto the floor then look up at me with a dubious expression.

“Steven,” he says awkwardly, rubbing his arm. “I’m sorry mate, you probably aren’t going to like what I was able to buy you.”

“She’s going by Emily now,” Jess says, marching into the room.

As Jess rustles the bags and checks the items inside, Kevin looks at me with a raised eyebrow.

“Emily….?” He questions, placing a finger onto his chin. “Isn’t that your mom's name?”

With my new voice being so high-pitched and awful, I decide not to answer. I just nod and smile.

Tilting his head to the side, Kevin’s face becomes one of confusion.

“How…..is your mom?” he asks.

Even if I was still myself and I didn’t have this whiney girly voice, I still wouldn’t have wanted to that question.

“These are so cute!” Jess cries out, interrupting. “Emily look at these!”

With pure delight written across her face, Jess holds up a frilly pink nighty. With the picture of unicorn blazen across the middle, it couldn’t have been anymore cliché.

Almost stumbling over to me, she holds the nighty against my tiny body.

“Awwww,” Jess coos. “You wanna wear this tonight to bed?”

With Jess desperate for me to answer, all I could muster was a shrug. Was she expecting a grown man to want to wear something like that?

“Sorry Steven,” Kevin says, as he scratches his head. “It’s all I could find.”

Glaring at Kevin, I could see he was feeling pretty awkward about it all.

“Don’t look at me like that,” he whines. “It’s not like the supermarket as a ‘just transformed’ section! They don’t do men's clothing for little girls!”

With Jess still holding the nighty against me, She turns to face Kevin and chuckles at his comments.

“You dope!” she laughs. “You could have just brought him boy’s clothing.”

“Yeah, you jerk,” I blurt out in my girly chipmunk voice. “Would you wanna wear this unicorn thingy to bed?”

Almost stunned by my comments, Jess turns to me with a face full of disappointment.

“Emily!” she groans. “Don’t use words like that!”

So taken back by Jess’s scolding, I didn’t know what to say back in return. Flashbacks of being told off as a child blaze to the forefront of my mind.

“This is better though,” Jess then comments, placing the nighty down next to me. “It’s not long until the wedding now and I guess it would be much better for you to get used to wearing girl's clothing.”

As I watch Kevin’s face turn into a smug grin, I knew he’d got the really girly stuff on purpose. The only reason I could think why he’d want to do that to me, was to make Jess happy. See, one of the big reasons why the flower girl is so important to their wedding is that Jess is unable to have children.

When I first heard that news, I was gutted for them both. Being such a lovely couple, you couldn’t help but feel for them. You could tell Jess was always putting a brave face on it, but from what Kevin’s told me, it’s cut her deep.

Personally, I’d never really wanted children myself. No way could I deal with the hassle, late nights, and tantrums. In fact, it’s kinda ironic. I hate kids so much it broke up my marriage. Now I’m sitting here as a female child. Funny how life is sometimes.

“OMG Kevin,” Jess screams, holding up a small yellow dress. “How cute is this!”

“Yes yes,” Kevin replies, kissing Jess gently on the forehead. “Should we maybe do this tomorrow? It’s well past eleven and Steven’s new body probably needs sleep.”

Folding the dress and shoving it back in the bag, Jess turns to me and smiles.

“I suppose it is kinda late,” she admits looking at the clock on the wall. “You wanna come with me Emily and I will show you to your room?”

Knowing I didn’t really have a choice, I just shrug. Shuffling off the edge of the sofa, my tiny feet finally reach the floor. Still wearing Jess’s unfitting t-shirt, I pull it down tight to hide my body.

As I look up at them both, It really dawned on me how much height I’d lost. I’d never had to look up at Kevin in my life. Now he towers over me!”

“Come on sweety,” Jess chirps, holding out a hand for me to hold.

I don’t take hold of her hand, I just look up at her with a sour expression.

“Oh, sorry,” she comments. “You don’t need my help, do you.”

In response, I give her a single shake of my head.

Not saying anymore, Jess grabs the pink nighty and leads the way upstairs. Following right behind her, I find the steps a much harder proposition. With this body, they seemed much much larger.

As she shepherds me into their spare room, Jess quickly nips in and turns the bedside light on. As I follow behind her, Jess turns and gets to her knees. Looking me in the eye, I could tell she wants to help me get into my nighty.

“Take off that shirt,” she commands. “Let's get you into this nighty. Pretty girls like us need our beauty sleep.”

Reluctantly allowing her to help me remove the t-shirt, I instantly cover my naked body with my arms.

“Emily,” Jess giggled, reaching for a pair of white girly briefs. “I’ve seen a girl's body before, you don’t need to hide it.”

Putting the briefs by my feet, she wants me to step into them. I couldn’t have felt more emasculated if she’s been trying to make me feel like a little girl.

“Step in please sweety,” she insists, taking hold of one foot.

Not finding my big boy voice, I let her take my foot and glide it into the briefs. Then seconds later she does the same with the other foot and glides the briefs up my legs.

“There you go,” she smiles. “Is that better to have it hidden away?”

“I suppose so,” I mutter back. “I still feel like it’s down there.”

“You do?” Jess asks, almost giggling at my comment.

With her grabbing the unicorn nighty, she raises my arms and pulls it over my head.

“It’s not gone forever,” Jess comments, as she pulls out my hair from under the nighty.

With Jess gathering all of my loose hair, she parts it down the middle and styles my hair into pigtails.

“Speaking of it,” Jess says, putting hair tie’s into my hair. “Do you want me to talk through how to go to the toilet?”

“I’m sure I can work it out,” I reply, with a small huff.

“It might not be that easy,” she chuckles, patting me gently on the head. “Just make sure you sit down when you use the toilet. You won’t be able to aim it anymore!”

Blushing like a ripe tomato, I look away and try to think of something else.

“Oh don’t be shy!” Jess giggles. “At least you aren’t at the age to have periods!”

With that comment, I pout and fold my arms.

“Damit you're so cute!” Jess coos. “Look at that pretty little face! Honestly, wasn’t expecting you to transform into such a pretty little girl. I can kinda still see your family resemblance though.

“You’re enjoying this too much,” I whine in reply.

“Maybe,” Jess shrugs. “Anyways, let's get you into bed.

With Jess flapping out the sheets of the double bed, I climb in and get comfortable. With her tucking me in, she flicks off the bedside lamp.

“I know it’s going to be hard to sleep tonight, with your transformation and everything,” Jess says, standing in the doorway. “Please try not to worry. I’m going to help you every step of the way. You’ll have such a new appreciation for women once this experience is over. Should help you find someone.”

“Go away Jess,” I huff. “I’m pretty tired now.”

“Nighty sweety!” she playfully jokes. “See you in the morning!”

With that, Jess closes the door and the bedroom goes dark. Shuffling around in the bed, which feels absolutely massive to me, I find myself yawning.

With my eyes growing heavy, I slowly fall to sleep.

The next morning, I wake to a gentle tapping at the door. Opening my eyes wide, the morning sunshine streams in through the blinds and I sit up in the bed.

“Ah poo,” I gripe, looking down at the unicorn nighty. “It wasn’t a dream!”

“Emily,” Jess’s voice says gently through the door. “Hunny, are you awake?”

“Yeah,” I call out, sounding so very feminine.

With Jess letting herself into the room, she gives me a big smile.

“How’d you sleep?” she asks and immediately starts rustling through the bags of clothes brought for me yesterday.

“Ok, I guess,” I reply back, fighting to get my long hair out of my mouth and eyes.

“Good,” Jess says, holding up a small yellow summer dress. “Go get washed up. Once you’re dressed and had your juice and cereal, we’ve gotta head to the mall.”

“Juice?” I complain, rather narked off. “I need my coffee, Jess!”

Pushing out one hip, Jess gives me a sour look.

“You don’t need coffee,” She scolds. “You’re not thirty anymore. That nine-year-old body will have energy enough.”

“Oh sure,” I scoff, letting out a raspberry. “Take that pleasure away from me too!”

Slowly climbing out of the bed, Jess smirks and points at the bathroom.

“Just go get washed, missy,” she sternly commands

With a big yawn and a rub of my eyes, I walk past Jess and into the en-suite. Closing the door behind me, I look up at the sink and the mirror. I could barely reach the taps. I had to stand on my tiptoes.

“Baby, Jess says through the door. “Don’t wash your whatsit with soap….ok.”

As the sink bowl fills, I look at the girly face looking back at me in the mirror.

“I ain't touching that thing,” I mutter under my breath, gritting my teeth.

With a splash of water on my face, I decide that’s enough. I wasn’t yet prepared to take my nighty off and look at my transformed body in all its glory. If I ignored the emptiness below, I could almost pretend I was just a skinny boy.

“Done,” I say, as I open the door and come back into the bedroom.

“Sit on the bed Emily,” Jess orders, not looking at me. “We need to brush your hair and get your dressed.”

Climbing back onto the bed, I allow my feet to just dangle off the side. Then without warning, Jess gets on the bed and straddles me from behind. With her legs around my entire body, she starts gently playing with my hair.

“Jess….?” I cry, with my face going bright red. “What are you doing!? Kevins downstairs, he wouldn’t want you so close to me like this!”

“Don’t be silly,” she giggles, releasing my hair from the pigtails. “This is what my mom used to do with me. I used to love it.”

“Not so sure,” I huff and fold my arms tight.

Jess wasn’t put off, she ran a brush through my hair, catching knots as she went.

“You’ve got such lovely glossy hair,” Jess comments, brushing away.

As Jess continued to brush my hair, she clearly was enjoying herself. I did sit as still as possible. I guess a part of me was enjoying the attention.

With a few more minutes passing, she gathered up all my hair and tied it into a ponytail. It was odd to feel all that weight on the back of my head, but it was super nice not to have hair in my face.

With me wafting my ponytail from side to side, enjoying the tickling sensations on my back, Jess gets up and stands in front of me. Helping me up onto my feet, she grabs the bottom of the nighty and pulls it swiftly above my head.

With the cold tingling my naked body, I bashfully try to cover myself with my arms.

“You can wear those say briefs today,” Jess comments, reaching for a bright yellow dress. “Arms up!”

The dress looked pretty simple, with a rounded neckline and a puffed-out skirt. Something you’d expect a little girl to wear. I didn’t fancy being seen in it, but at least it wasn’t a short skirt or something.

Doing as I was told, Jess soon as the yellow dress over my head and pulled down to my knees. With Jess zipping me into it, I look down at myself and sway the skirt from side to side.

“That’s so funny!” Jess laughs, looking at me with a huge smile. “I used to sway my dresses like that when I was your age.”

“It’s kinda fun,” I reply, giving her a smile. “It’s so airy down there,”

“Just make sure you cross your legs when you sit down,” Jess comments, giving me a wink. “Otherwise you’re panties will be on show for the world.

Pointing for me to get back up onto the bed, I climb back up and allow my feet to dangle once more.

“Hold your legs out,” Jess asks, as she bundles a pair of thin-looking white tights. “Gotta keep those young legs warm!”

“How tight to these needs to be.” I moan as she runs them up under my skirt.

With Jess giving me a wink, she steps back and allows me to jump off the bed. As I do, my dress puffs up and air rushes up between my legs. Not something I was used to. Why couldn’t I wear some jeans or something? Does it have to be a dress? I feel ridiculous.

“Could you make me look any more girly?” I ask with a stamp of my foot.

With a big smile, Jess reaches for some black Marie Janes shoes. Sliding them onto my small feet, she fastens the buckle tight. Getting to her feet, she looks down at me and gushes.

“Look at you, baby,” she says, brushing loose strands of my hair from my eyes. “You’ll get used to dresses and I promise it’s worth it. You look so adorable!”

Looking up at her, I sigh.

“Thanks,” I reply with a sour tone. “I don’t feel it. I feel weird.”

With that, we both head downstairs. I could hear Kevin watching the TV. With Jess going into the kitchen, I bashfully make my way into the living room.

I wondered what Kevin would make of me wearing a dress like this.

“Hey Steven,” Kevin awkwardly greets me with a fleeting look.

“Hi,” I answer, knowing that the both of us were a little uncomfortable.

Climbing onto the sofa. Next to him, I brush down my ridding upskirt. Kevin looks down at me again and quickly looks away. I look at the TV and try to act natural.

“Can you look at the soccer scores?” I ask, pointing at the TV “ My team played yesterday and I never found out the result.

“Soccer?” Kevin gripes, picking up the remote. “You still like that? Why can’t you like a real sport?”

“Just do it,” I order, punching him in the leg. “You know I’ve liked soccer since I was young.”

With Kevin laughing at my feeble punch, he flicks over the channel.

“You punch like a girl,” He chuckles.

“I am a girl,” I sarcastically reply back. “What's your excuse!”

Kevin chuckles a little more before going silent. As we watch the highlights of my team losing by two goals, I grumble.”

“Useless berks” I groan, “I could have done better!”

“Oh yeah,” Kevin laughs. “If it wasn’t for the old sports injury… right?”

Looking up at Kevin’s smug face, I give him a sour look.

“You know I was good enough,” I reply. “Not my fault my knee gave in.”

Continuing to pull faces at each other, Jess interrupts us both.

“Emily,” she calls. “Come eat your choccy cereal.”

“Yeah, Steve,” Kevin says sarcastically “Go eat your cereal.”

With Jess pulling out a dining chair, I amble over and sit up at the table. looking at the breakfast she’s laid out in front of me, I see no coffee. It was a bummer.

As I tuck in, Jess goes over to Kevin and starts nagging.

“Don’t you need to leave for work,” she moans.

Without saying another word, Kevin flicks off the TV.

“See you guys later then,” he says, kissing Jess gently on the cheek. “Don’t get into trouble Steven, ok. That’s my fiancé you’re with, don’t get any ideas!”

With a mouth full of cereal, I give him a dopey look. As if I would even think of doing something like that to my best friend!

As he leaves and the front door clicks closed, Jess wonders over to me.

“Yeah like we’d do anything like that,” she giggles, sitting next to me on the dining table. “You don’t even have the right equipment anymore!”

“Don’t remind me,” I groan with a mouth full of food.

“Emily!” Jess scoffs, wagging her finger. “Don’t talk with your mouth full!”

Sticking my tongue out at her in response, she gets up from the table.

“Silly girl,” she mumbles, as she puts on her leather jacket. “Once you’ve finished we need to head out. My hair appointment is in an hour.”

“I think I’m done already,” I tell her, throwing my spoon into the bowl. “Do I get a cool leather jacket like that too?”

Jess stops and gives me a big smile.

“It is a nice jacket right?” she happily replies. “Nah, I think Kevin got you a denim one. Go put your dishes in the kitchen and I will go fetch it.”

Nodding, I get down from the table and take my stuff into the kitchen. Not scrapping it, I leave it on the counter. Jess then enters with the denim jacket in hand. Helping me into it, I look down at the flowers embroidered on the front.

“It’s a bit small,” I comment, trying to pull it down further than my waist.

“That’s what girl's clothing is like Kido,” Jess says quickly grabbing her car keys. “No come on, let’s go!”

With her holding her hand out for me to grab. I felt a little annoyed. I’m really not a child. I don’t need to be hand help to the car.

“Please don’t hold you’re hand out like that Jess,” I moan. “I’m capable of walking to the car myself.”

Still holding her hand out, she gives me a dirty look.

“I need this to be real,” she tells me. “If I treat you like normal, I will only see you coming down the aisle and that will be awkward. Have you noticed how I don’t call you anything but Emily?”

“Kevin keeps calling me my real name,” I reply, looking down and flapping at my skirt.

“Yeah…,” Jess says, grabbing my hand and gently pulling me. “I need to have a word with him about that.”

Within minutes, we have left the house. Walking to her car, I look over at my car with sadness, knowing that I can’t drive it for the next seven days. I doubted my girly body good even reach the peddles.

“Emily…..,” Jess complains as I open the passenger side door of her car. “Do children ride up front?”

“Fine,” I huff and slam the car door.

Reluctantly climbing into the back, I do up my seat belt and give Jess a sarcastic smile.

“Better?” I mock.

“Much better sweety,” she smirks

Leaning into the back of the car, Jess places a hand on my knee.

“Although,” she says, pushing my legs closed. “You don’t need to splay your legs out like that anymore. Remember you’re wearing a dress. You don’t want people looking up trying to catch a glimpse of your underwear!”

“Argh,” I complain, shutting my legs tight.

With Jess starting the car and pulling out of the drive, I start staring idly out the window. Something had been bothering me all morning and it wasn’t the fact I’m a girl or wearing a dress. She’s a witch and can do this to people. What's that about?

With us driving down Main Street, I knew this was my opportunity to ask about it.

“So, can I ask you a question?” I say, breaking the silence.

“Sure sweety,” Jess replies, giving me a smile through the rearview mirror.

“Tell me more about your being a witch,” I continue, itching the back of my hand as I talk.

“There’s not much to say,” Jess responds, concentrating on the road. “It’s a gift passed down to all girls in my family. My mom got it from her mom and so on and so on.”

“Do you have magic powers!?” I childishly ask her.

“No!” she answers with a chuckle. “It’s more knowledge on how to brew potions and stuff.

“Like the one you gave me?” I say, looking at my girly small hands. “Pretty powerful stuff if you ask me. Could you not make a fortune from it?”

Stopping at some traffic lights, Jess quickly looks back at me and shakes her head.

“It’s not as easy as that,” she says, giving me a serious look. “The Witch council would expel my family if I was to profit from it.”

“Well, that’s crap.” I huff.

“Yeah…,” Jess replies, turning back to concentrate on the road. “It’s a dying art form in my family.”

“Why’s that?” I ask curiously.

“I can’t have a daughter…,” Jess replies, her voice almost cracking with pain.

“Oh yeah,” I say softly back. “Sorry, I shouldn’t pry.”

Pulling the car into a car parking space, I look out my window to see we’ve parked outside the shopping mall. Thinking about entering the place dressed like this was making my head hurt.

“We’re here!” Jess says, turning off the engine and looking back at me. “Also, I guess you have the right to ask me about my witchcraft. Let's just forget it for now and go and get our hair done!”

“I’m getting my hair done?” I question, undoing my belt and climbing out of the car.

With the gentle breeze and chill of the autumn weather hitting me, my hair wafts, and my skirt ruffles. I could feel the breeze running up my dress once more.

My tiny frame really wasn’t doing much to hold back the cold either, being mostly skin and bones. Good thing I didn’t have anything dangling between my legs. I think they’d have probably shriveled up by now.

“Jeez,” I groan, as Jess comes around the car and holds out her hand to me. “It’s cold today!”

“Good thing we put tights on you,” Jess comments, waving her hand out for me to grab.

“I’m not taking your hand Jess,” I scoff. “I told you, I’m not a child!”

“Emily,” she growls, giving me a stern look. “Do you want to make a scene?”

“No….,” I admit and reluctantly take her hand. “I guess not.”

With her pulling and gripping my hand tight, Jess leads the way into the mall. I couldn’t believe how strong she was. I felt like she was going to rip my arm straight out of the socket.

As we enter the mall, everything just seemed massive compared to me. I couldn’t help but feel anxious and nervous as we walked towards the salon. I couldn’t help but feel everyone was gawking at me in this dress. Staring at the guy who’s now a girl.

Entering the Salon, I look around at all the women working at the client's chatting. I would have felt out of place here as a man. I felt really out of place now.

As Jess greets the receptionist, I find myself hiding behind her legs. I knew this made me look like such a nervous little child, but I really was feeling anxious. I mean, how are you supposed to react in public when you’ve been transformed into a little girl.

“Right this way Miss Brown,” the receptionist says, leading us further into the shop.

As I walked just behind Jess, still trying my best to hide and not be seen, the receptionist looks down and smiles.

“Hello sweety,” she says beaming a smile.

Hiding my face behind Jess’s leg, I felt like such an idiot. Here’s me moaning I’m not a child, then the next minute hiding myself away.

“I didn’t know you had a daughter,” the receptionist says to Jess. “She’s a bit shy.”

“Oh,” Jess replies nervously. “Daughter….yeah…..,”

With us stopping next to two empty hairdressing chairs, the receptionist bends down and looks into my eyes.

“We’ve got you booked in too!” she tells me with a big smile. “You wanna sit next to mommy?”

Shaking my head, Jess picks me up and places me in the chair. Kneeling down in front of me, she pulls out my bunched-up dress. Giving me a comforting smile, she pushes my legs together and winks.

“Hiya!” A woman greets us both from behind. “How’re the nerves Jess?” she asks

Turning to face the woman, she’s clearly a hairdresser. She’s got a funky-colored hairstyle.

“I’m getting a little nervous,” Jess admits, sitting in the chair. “How're things with you Holly?”

“I’m good my lovely,” Holly Replies, running her fingers through Jess’s long brown hair. “And who’s this lovely young sweetheart?”

With Holly smiling at me through the reflection of the large mirrors in front of us, I slouch in my seat.

“Oh don’t be shy sweety,” she says.

“This is Emily,” Jess interrupts, turning to give me a comforting smile. “She’s getting her hair done too.”

“Is she your daughter!?” Holly questions with surprise in her eyes.

“Nooo,” Jess replies, desperately wanting people to stop asking that. “It’s complicated. I’m just looking after her at the moment.”

“Nice to meet you, Emily,” Holly says. Ushering another hairdresser. she turns her attention back to me. “I’ve got my assistant doing your hair sweetheart. Be a good girl for her, ok!”

Seconds later. Holly’s sister appears behind me and she removes the tie from my hair. Allowing my hair to cascade down my shoulders, she runs her things through my long locks and turns to Holly.

“I know what you’re after Jess,” Holly says. “What about Emily, What do we need to do to her hair?”

“Cut it all off?” I bashfully whisper.

“Whats that sweety?” Holly’s assistant asks, leaning in closer.

“I heard her,” Jess gripes, giving me a sour look. “She’s just being silly. I was thinking if you part her down the middle. Keep her bangs long and layer it?”

“Sure,” the assistant chirps, lifting strands of my hair into the air. “Lucky you’ve got really healthy hair. Should be a nice easy cut. Should look super cute!”

Feeling pretty annoyed that Jess was making the decisions for me, I huff and fold my arms.

“I suppose my opinion doesn’t matter,” I whine, Not thinking about how Jess would react.

“Emily….,” Jess says softly, trying not to appear annoyed in front of everyone. “Pleased be good and do as your told.”

Swallowing my pride once more, I lean back into my chair and sigh.

With all the ladies incessantly chatting away, both myself and Jess had our hair done. Every so often the hairdressers would ask me questions. Jess, would more often than not, answer for me. I was getting a little bit irritated.

That aside, it was kinda nice having my hair done. Getting it washed and having some of the weight cut out. It was super nice getting it all blown dry. I actually found it pretty funny as my hair wildly danced around in the jets of warm wind.

Once the assistant had straightened it and styled it, I could really apricate the style I was given. On a real little girl, it would be super cute! On my head, not so sure.

Once Jess’s hair was done, she looked stunning. I had to give Kevin props. his wife is a real beauty. She’s slumming it with him, for sure!

I dunno if it was the dress, my female body, or the whole experience, but I was starting to feel pretty comfortable around Jess and envious of her. With her hair looking so curly and lovely, I almost wanted to ask for my hair to be curled too

Privately shaking my head at those silly girly thoughts, I say nothing

With us, both finished and Jess extremely pleased with the results, we pay up and leave. I almost want to shout out that I’d survived!

With Jess in a really good mood, she brought me lunch. Annoyingly, she didn’t get me the slice of meat lovers pizza I wanted. I got a chicken nugget happy meal. I ate it all, but I knew she’d done that on purpose.

She was really trying to remind me that I’m a kid and should act like one.

With us about to leave the Mall, Jess pulls me in the direction of a small beauty Kiosk. Signaling for the Lady to serve us, I wonder what she’s planning.

“Hi there,” Jess greets the lady. “I’d like to get my daughter's ears pierced please.”

“No way,” I whine, pulling my hand from hers. “I’m not doing that!”

With Jess holding me tight, I pull even harder. I don’t like needles! I don’t want them to shove one in my ear!

“Emily!” Jess says, “I’ve brought your earrings for the wedding. I need you to have your ears pierced.”

With the woman readying her needle gun, she gives me a worried look.

“Miss,” she says concerned. “Are you and you’re daughter ready?”

“One second,” she replies and kneels down in front of me.

“Look,” she whispers into my ear sternly. “Please don’t cause a scene. Honestly, It doesn’t hurt!”

“I dunno,” I say, looking away from her serious-looking expression.

“Please Emily,” Jess says, “Do this for me, just this once.”

“Why?” I groan, turning to look at Jess’s face. “wasn't getting my hair done enough?”

That’s when I see the tears welling in her eyes. I really couldn’t understand why she was getting upset. It wasn’t like before in the salon. She was getting annoyed at my attitude. This was something else.

“I’ve had such a lovely day with you,” she says, with a single tear rolling down her cheek. “I’ve always dreamt of doing things like this with my own daughter. Please just let me enjoy these moments while I can.”

“You won’t,” I say, wiping the tear from her face. “get to do this for real…. will you?”

“No Emily,” she sobs. “Please just indulge me. Going to the mall to get my ears pierced with my mom was a big moment for me. Let me give that moment to you… please.”

“Fine,” I huff, throwing my arms around her neck to comfort her. “I don’t like it, but I’m doing this for you both!”

Giving me a hug in return, she gets up and pats me gently on the head.

“My daughters ready now,” says, helping me into the chair.

With my heart rate raising, I could feel the panic consuming me. I hate needles!

“Sweety,” Emily says, gripping my hand super tight and looking deep into my eyes. “You’re the best. I hope you know that!”

“Ok,” I reply, breathing heavy. “Can I at least choose my earrings?

“No sweety,” Jess answers, tilting her head to one side. “I know best.”

Annoyed by her again, I wanted to say something, however, I was more scared of the needle. I wanted her to keep holding my hand.

“Ok,” the needle lady says, sitting to my side. “Big brave girl now, ok!”

Chapter 3

My Mom or Not my Mom

Gently tapping on the door, I push it open before Kevin can answer. I knew he’d be annoyed, but I didn’t care. I wasn’t feeling like a guest in their house anymore. The last few days, I’d started to feel like part of the family. I guess when you’re being constantly mothered, it’s hard not to feel like family.

“Hey….Kev,” I giggle, standing in the doorway, watching him shave in the mirror.

“Steven,” he replies, with a spoked jump. “What the hell are you doing in here!”

With only a towel hiding his naked body, I give him a cheeky smile.

“I wanted to get Jess’s makeup bag,” I say pointing to it on the sink. “Didn’t realize I’d get front row tickets to the gun show!”

“Go away will you,” he gripes, shooing me off. “I didn’t even hear you coming. You’re like a ninja with that tiny body.”

Leaning against the door frame, I brush the hair from my eyes.

“You aren't getting married with all that hair on your chest….,” I ask, sticking out a tongue in disgust. “You’re like a gorilla.”

“Just because your smooth all over,” he exclaims. “Least I can grow hair, unlike little miss over here.”

Rolling my eyes, I come in closer.

“Just pass me the makeup bag,” I moan.

Looking back into the mirror, Kevin resumes shaving. With one hand, he grabs the bag and dangles it higher than I can reach.

“Here you go,” he says, mocking me. “Grab it then.”

“Not funny,” I growl. Trying my best to jump and grab it. “Give it to me now, or I’m going to kick you in the balls!”

Turning to laugh at my plight, he mercifully lowers it into my hands.

“Least I’ve got balls pipsqueak,” he says, giving me a cheeky grin.

With the bag in hand, I turn away. My pink unicorn nighty flaps and twists as I do.

“You douche,” I replied, flicking my pigtails back over my shoulders.

“Oi,” he whines. “Don’t speak to me like that. I will wash your mouth out with soap!”

“Sorry!” I insolently shout back, skipping out of the room.

With the makeup in hand, I headed into my room. Jess had been helping me get dressed every morning. I’d started to feel like she had been taking it too far, so this morning, on her day off, I’d decided to get ready by myself.

I’d also decided I was going to show her how much I’m into helping with the wedding. I’d been a little reluctant with all the girly stuff, being a man and all.

This was my chance to show her I’d been listening to all her advice about being a girl.

I already knew what I wanted to wear. I’d had a look through the clothes Kevin brought and I’d found a pleated short skirt and a bright red off-shoulder top.

I thought it might look cute with some black tights and trainers. I also wanted to do some basic makeup and my nails.

Yesterday, Jess introduced me to the world of makeup and I found myself wanting to make her happy and proud of me. So I’ve decided I will give it ago!

I mean, I’m only a girl now for a few more days, would be a shame to not try it! What's the saying? When in Rome?

Placing Jess’s makeup bag onto the vanity table in my room, I pull my nighty over my head and throw it across the room.

With my long hair tickling my hairless feminine body, I itch my shoulder.

“I hate this part,” I mumble, placing my tiny fingers into the top of my bright white girly briefs.

Pulling them down as quickly as possible, I move rapidly to get on the fresh underwear I’d set out for the day. As much as I was almost getting used to the emptiness down there, it still kinda freaked me out that I have women's parts. Very emasculating.

Going to the toilet was always a real reminder of that. Just wiping that area after using the toilet made me feel weird. It’s not like I can just shake it and go anymore. You don’t realize how useful that is until you can’t do it anymore.

I’d even started to understand how annoying it is when the seat is left up. Kevin really was bad for that. Defiantly something I will take away from this experience!

With my fresh briefs on, I sit on the edge of the bed and pull up my tights. With my legs encased, I pull the pleated skirt up just above my hips.

Twisting and turning on the spot, the short skirt twirls as I move. I laugh and giggle.

“Is this too short?” I question, pulling the skirt down to the top of my thigh.

Shrugging my shoulders, I grab my top and put it on. I’d never worn a top like it before. The neck hole was massive. Once on, I allow one side to drape over my shoulder. It felt very feminine to have so much of my shoulder out, but I wasn’t minding it.

“Oh ok,” I say, smiling into the full-length floor mirror.

Reaching back and pulling the hairs trapped as I put on my top, I move closer to the mirror. Staring into the eyes of the girl looking back at me, I realize just how adorable I am.

My eyes sparkle with the essence of youth. My lips and cheeks are supple and full. My skin is so soft and perfect. Not a single blemish or stray hair.

Prodding my cheek and my nose, I look deeper at the shape of my face.

I could still kinda see myself in the girl that stares back. Even if my face is shorter and more rounded with softer features, she still has my nose and chin.

I guess even as a young girl, I can’t escape the family nose.

Gathering up my wild hair, I stroke it flat and quickly tie it all into a ponytail. With a sassy flick of my head, my hair swings back behind me.

“Good job so far,” I say, giving myself a pep talk, as I look over at Jess’s makeup bag. “Here’s the real test!”

Almost skipping over to the vanity table, I find myself oddly excited. I wasn’t one hundred percent sure why. I told myself it’s because this helps me be the pretty girl they want for the wedding.

That’s when I hear movement just outside my door.

“Steven?” Kevin calls out as my bedroom door swings open.

“Yeah?” I say, grabbing the bag and holding it at my chest.

“Errr…..,” Kevin says, looking at my outfit. “That’s a very short skirt.”

“You brought it,” I reply, shrugging my shoulders at him.

“I think someone’s starting to enjoy being a girl…..,” Kevin laughs, folding his arms and giving me a wide smile.

“Don’t be stupid dude,” I quickly squeal back at him with a whiney high pitched voice.

Giving me a look of disbelief, Kevin continues to chuckle.

“You did look so adorable in that blue dress yesterday,” he says, mimicking a curtsey. “Jess was saying you choose to wear it.”

“Oh shut up!” I whine, blushing like mad “So what if I choose to look adorable. Isn't that the whole reason I’m doing this?”

“Look dude,” Kevin says, rubbing his face. “I just don’t get too attached to that body, ok?”

“You think I wanna be a skinny little girl?” I instantly answer back.

“Okay, okay,” Kevin says, throwing his hands up. “I’m just saying I don’t want to lose my best friend. Also, Jess is fragile too.”

“How would you lose me?” I question, putting a single hand on my hip.

“My best friend can’t be a school girl you dope,” he answers with a sigh. “Just remember who you really are. I know we need you to act feminine, but I watched you yesterday with Jess putting makeup on. I saw the big smiles across both of your faces.”

“That was just a little fun and completely necessary for me to be the flower girl!” I cry out embarrassed. “What do you want anyway, I’m trying to get ready.”

“Jess isn’t up yet and I’ve gotta go to work,” he says, putting his hand on the door and readying to leave the room. “I just wanted to say I’d put your cereal out and some juice.”

“Thanks,” I answer with a smile. “Coffee?”

“Sorry Steve,” Kevin replies as he leaves the room and walks down the hallway. “You know you’re not allowed.”

Letting out a huff as I hear Kevin walk down the stairs, I turn my attention back to the makeup bag I still hold in my hand.

Throwing out the contents of the bag onto the floor in front of the mirror, I look at the cosmetics strewn out in front of me.

Starting with my lips, I pick up Jess’s dark maroon lipstick. Taking off the lid, I push the lipstick against my lips. With the waxy feeling of it as I moved it across my lips, I look into the mirror to check my work.

Having never done it myself before, I was happy with how well I’d manage to apply it. It may have looked a little wonky, and thicker in other places, but I loved how sophisticated it made my face look. I instantly looked older.

Excited by that prospect, I throw the lipstick down and grab Jess’s expensive-looking eye shadow palette. Flicking open the small little case, I find six soft muted colors inside. Picking up a brush, I’d remembered that Jess said that brown would be a good color for a girl with a face like mine.

Loading the brush up with the glittery brown eye shadow I’d chosen, I close my eyes and swipe across the lids.

Once I’d repeated the process for my other eye, I drop the brush and look into the mirror. I instantly frown, as I quickly realize I’m not as delicate as Jess is. With my eyelids caked in a layer of thick eye shadow, I wasn’t quite sure what I’d done wrong. Trying to rub some off with my fingers, I end up smudging it down my face.

“Ah,” I whine, rubbing the excess makeup onto the carpet. “Jess made this seem so easy!”

Trying my best to tidy up, I give up and move on to the mascara.

Opening the tube up, I flutter my eyelashes up and down the small black brush. Once I’d finished, I was super chuffed with how well I’d applied it. My lashes looked thick and long. Just like the women you see in beauty magazines.

“Not so bad,” I say to my reflection, fluttering my eyelashes.

That’s when I feel a deep rumble from my belly. So deep, I could hear it clear as day!

“Wow,” I comment, dropping the mascara brush. “Didn’t realize I'm that hungry.”

I wanted to paint my nails, but I guess food is more important. Kevin had left my food out waiting for me too.

Swiftly making my way downstairs, I see my bowl of cereal waiting for me on the table. As I stand next to my chair, I look around the room. Jess wasn’t up yet and Kevin’s gone to work. I’m all alone.

Moving slowly into the kitchen, I look up at the coffee machine on the counter. Nervously pulling my ponytail to my front, I stroke it again and again as I formulated a plan. They’ve been telling me I’m not allowed, but I’m a grown man. I can have coffee if I want!

I could see the coffee warming on the hot plate, but I couldn’t reach it. My girly body wasn’t tall enough. Not being strong enough to lift a chair, I dragged one across the floor over to the counter. Not wanting to make noise, I dragged it slowly across the tiled floor,

Once the chair was in position, I climbed up. Grabbing a coffee mug from the cupboard above, I pick the coffee jug up with both hands. Only spilling a little of the coffee on the counter, I get most of it in my mug.

Pleased, I bring the mug to my lips and take a sip. As the warm brown liquid hits my taste bud, the sweet bitterness warms my soul.

“Ahh,” I say, lowering the mug. “That’s the stuff.”

Planning how I was going to get down from the chair with my full mug of coffee, I hear Jess coming down the stairs. Knowing I’m about to get caught, I freeze on the spot with fear.

“What on earth do you think you doing!” Jess growls, as she walked into the kitchen and finds me standing at the coffee machine.

Pushing my mug away, I shake my head innocently.

“Nothing…..,” I say, rapidly getting down from the chair.

Stamping over to me, Jess leans over me and looks into the cup. Seeing the coffee inside it, she grabs hold of my arm and stops me from scurrying away.

“Emily….!?” She says, pulling me towards her.

As our eyes meet, I can see her looking at my made-up face in horror. With one hand holding me still, she runs her finger across my lips.

“This looks like my expensive lipstick,” she exclaims. “Did you use my makeup without asking?”

“No….,” I answer meekly, turning my face away.

“Don’t lie to me, young lady!” Jess yells. “I can see it on you. I can see it on the coffee mug you’ve just drunk from.”

“I didn’t!” I petulantly reply “Get off me, you’re hurting me!”

“You’re in big trouble young lady!” Jess moans. “Not only have you used my expensive makeup and made a huge mess on the floor upstairs. You’ve helped yourself to a coffee when we’ve told you no!”

“I can do what I like!” I Scream back at her, desperately trying to free my arm from her grip.

Having been caught and feeling super embarrassed about it all, I was started to feel so upset. With Jess hurting my arm and my feeble body not being able to break free, it made me angry.

“Get off me!” I growl, throwing my free hand at her in frustration.

“Emily!” Jess shouts, shocked at me hitting her.

With us both glaring at each other, I swing at her once again. Why isn't see letting me go? I’m not a child

“How dare you!” Jess thunders.

Gripping me tighter, she pulls me into the living room. I continue to struggle to break free, but she’s stronger. As we approach the sofa, Jess swiftly sits down and throws me over her knee. With my body bent over her leg, I let out a whine.

“Stop,” I shout, tears welling in my eyes.

“Naughty girls get punished,” Jess says sternly, pulling down my tights and panties. “Living under my roof, you live by my rules!”

With my bare bottom exposed, I try to squirm free. I knew what was coming and no way was she going to do that to me

With my feeble attempts to escape, Jess slaps my backside hard. With the sound of the slap echoing around the room, I scream out in pain.

With the sting of her punishment lingering on my bottom, I started balling my eyes out.

“If I tell you not to,” Jess says, ignoring my screams and tears. “You do as I say. I said that you are only to do makeup with me. We also told you no coffee!”

Still bent over her knee with my panties down, I felt so ashamed of myself. I felt so emasculated by her. I didn’t know what to say.

“Do you understand?” Jess says calmly.

“Y-yes,” I mumble through my tears.

With her pulling up my briefs and tights, she lets me get off her knee. As soon as she lets me go, I run off into the kitchen. Running into the corner, I sit facing the cupboard.

I didn’t know how to process what just happened. I couldn’t stop myself from sobbing and crying. What's going on with me. I wanted to just man up and get on with it. Why was I acting so much like a child?

After a good few minutes of crying, I do start to calm down.  As I wipe my eyes and stand up, all I wanted was a hug.

Slowly walking into the living room, I stand dejected in front of her. Jess was still sitting on the sofa. It was obvious she’d been crying too.

“J-jess,” I say nervosly. “I’m sorry.”

Turning and giving me a small smile, Jess also wipes tears from her eyes. Holding out her hand, she gestures me over. As I stand in front of her, Jess throws her arms around me and pulls me in tight. With my face pressed against her breasts, she starts gently stroking my long hair.

“Thank you for saying sorry,” she whispers into my ear.

As she starts comforting me, I start crying once more. I didn’t understand it. Why are my emotions so out of control? Was this girl's body affecting the way I think?

“Can I ask why you thought it was ok to use my expensive makeup?” Jess softly asks me, hugging me tighter.

“I wanted to surprise you,” I say, sniffing and sobbing at the same time. “I thought you’d be happy that I got myself dressed and did my own makeup.”

“Oh baby,” Jess sighs, letting me go.

Allowing me to step back and look up at her, she gently touches my cheek.

“I did notice that pretty little outfit,” she says, touching my pleated skirt. “and I can see you’ve really tried with the makeup.”

“I wanted to make you happy,” I say, wiping tears from my eyes. “You guys have taken me in and I wanted to repay you.”

With one large sniff, I see Jess looking down at me intrigued.

“Repay me?” She asks. “What do you mean? Surely you’re doing us a favor?”

Realizing I’d said too much, I sharply look away. I felt the blood rush to my face as my cheeks go red.

“Emily,” Jess says, brushing hair from my eyes. “Is there something you want to tell me?”

“I’m homeless…..,” I say as quiet as a mouse.

“You’re homeless?” Jess questions, having heard me. “Is that why you came round so late the other night?”

“Yes,” I answer meekly.

“Wait,” Jess says confused. “I thought you lived with your Mom?”

“She’s dead,” I answer again, sobbing. “I have nowhere else to go.”

“Baby,” Jess cries, throwing her arms around me and hugging me tightly. “We’d heard rumors, but you never said anything. Is that why you wanted to repay me? Because we’ve taken you in?”

“Yeah,” I manage to say with my face buried in her chest.

“Oh god,” Jess groans. “I knew your mother was sick and the house was being repossessed, but I didn’t think it was that bad. Why didn’t you tell us?”

“Don’t know,” I answer childishly. “It was getting all a bit too much to handle. I didn’t want to think about it.”

Letting me go and looking at me again with a comforting smile, she wipes tears from my face.

“I also wanted you to know how it felt to have a daughter,” I tell her with my eyes welling up. “I wanted to show you how much I’d listened to you yesterday and how serious I’m taking my role as the flower girl!”

“Shit,” Jess whines. “I’m so sorry Emily,”

Allowing her head to drop, Jess starts to cry.

“We’ve been so wrapped up with our own lives,” she cries out. “We’ve not been checking up on you. I just spanked you for christ's sake and you were only trying to make me happy!”

Throwing myself at her, I throw my tiny arms as far around her body as I can.

“Is ok,” I say, looking up at her sad face with a smile. “I knew I was being naughty with the coffee.”

With her softly stroking my hair again, she smiles at me.

“Sorry for spanking you,” Jess says, with her eyes red from crying. “Thank you for doing that for me. I know becoming a little girl hasn’t been easy for you.”

“That's, ok,” I say, holding my hand to her face. “I’m thankful for the company and the warm bed. I’m starting to really enjoy the girl stuff too, so don’t worry about that.”

“You could stay like this…..,” Jess carelessly blurts out.

Letting go, I step back and look at her confused. Is that possible? Would they want that? Would I want that? Why say that to me now?

Stunned and stuck in my own thoughts, I gaze at her motionless.

“Emily?” Jess says, leaning forwards and touching me on the arm. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have said that. I can’t ask you to throw away your life so I can pretend you're my daughter.

Scoffing at her own stupidity, she shakes her head.

“Forget I said anything,” she groans. “I’m just super stressed with everything.”

Putting my hand onto hers, I look up at her with wide eyes.

“Is that even possible?” I ask. “I could end up staying like this?”

“You can,” Jess replies, giving me an awkward smile. “You don’t want to, so forget I said anything.

Not giving me a second to say anything back, Jess gets up and heads upstairs. I’m left flabbergasted at what she’s said. I hadn’t even considered that possibility. I’d just blindly gone along with it.

My mind now working at a million miles second, thoughts about staying a girl start popping up in my head. Would I want that? Would I want a new mom? Would I want to go through puberty as a girl? Would I like boys? Would I want Kevin as a dad?

With time passing by, I move around the room like a zombie. Lost in my thoughts, I sit at the table and slowly eat my cereal.

I could hear Jess moving around upstairs. She was likely cleaning up my mess with her makeup.

When she came downstairs an hour later, she’s got dressed in a casual plaid shirt and skinny jeans. He hair was done and her makeup looked perfect.

The silence as she entered the room was awful. I don’t think either of us really knew what to say.

“Erm,” Jess says breaking the silence. “We’ve got your dress fitting later today.”

“Oh,” I answer cautiously.

“Yeah, err.” Jess continues. “It’s not till this afternoon. I was wondering if you wanted to go shopping beforehand. Just us girls?”

“Ok,” I reply, giving a small smile. “Can you help me with my makeup before we go? I’m worried I did a bad job.”

“Sure,” Jess says, with the tension in her body language melting away. “You know, before we both started crying, you actually had done a really good job of it!”

“I had!?” I say back with surprise.

“Yeah!” Jess says, clapping her hands together. “Come on, let's go fix it and head into town. I’m thinking I can treat you to something nice!”

“Amazing!” I scream out with joy.

With Jess showing me how to be more delicate with the eyeshadow, we soon had my makeup looking great again.

Once my hair was brushed straight, we got on our shoes, and headed to her car. With me climbing into the back and asking for the music louder, we pull out of the drive and head to the mall.

Before long, we are at the mall, walking from shop to shop. I’d completely forgotten my worries about being seen as a girl at this point. Every so often I’d catch a boy of my age staring at me. I loved smiling back and watching them instantly look away embarrassed, It was nice feeling pretty and like the center of attention.

I’d actually started finding it easier to think of myself as Jess’s daughter. I felt it made logical sense to treat her like she’s my mother. I mean, she basically was at this point. She was my role model in understanding being a girl.

Not something I was used to being an average-looking guy.

Finding ourselves in a sporting store, I wander off from Jess, who’s looking at the clothing section. Having no breasts of my own, sports bras don’t interest me.

Wondering off and into the soccer section, I eye a pair of soccer boots that I really love. Picking them up to look at them, Jess startles me from behind.

“I heard you was almost a pro,” Jess comments, picking another pair of boots up.

“Yeah,” I say, running my fingers along the boot's laces. “I’d love to play again but I’ve got a knee injury.”

“Not in that body you don’t,” Jess says as brash as daylight. “Would you like me to purchase you some boots and a ball so you can have a kick about later? Would seem a shame not to while you haven’t got a bad knee!”

“That would be so amazing mom!” I blurt out with excitement, not really thinking about it.

With Jess’s eyes growing wide, her mouth drops and she blankly stares down at me.

“Mom….?” She says, giving me an uncomfortable smile.

“Errr….,” I mutter. “Yeah……I’ve just been thinking it’s easier to pretend I’m your daughter. Sorry, that just slipped out. I’m ecstatic I can play soccer again!”

Nodding her head slowly, she takes the boot from my hand.

“Sure….,” she mumbles. “I’m….ok with that.”

“Sorry,” I say softly, lowering my head. “I just thought it’s easier for me to think that while we are out in public. I don’t want to draw attention to myself by acting weird or something.”

“Let me go buy these for you,” Jess states, giving me a wry smile.

As I follow behind her, I gently and secretly slap my forehead with my palm. I’d really dropped the ball with that one! Why’d I had to go and tell her that? I’m asking for trouble!

Standing with her at the counter, she asks the clerk to find my size. Once I’d put them on and agreed they were comfortable. Jess buys them for me.

We didn’t have time to talk further as we had to get to the dress shop. I could see Jess was conflicted about me calling her mom, in the way she was acting.

I wasn’t trying to get her hopes up that I’d stay like this. That wasn’t my intention! I hope she doesn’t think that. I needed to set the record straight as soon as I could.

As we reach the dress shop, I follow her inside. looking around at all the gowns on display. From small frilly dresses that would fit me, to big beautiful white wedding dresses. I felt out of place, but for some reason, a little excited.

“Afternoon Miss Brown,” an older lady says approaching us.

“Hi Doris,” Jess replies, as I stand close behind her. “I’m here for my flower girl’s dress fitting.”

“Ah,” Doris says, looking down at me, then back up at Jess. “What happened to the other little girl?”

“Sophia?” Jess asks, “They couldn’t make it. “I’m hoping with a few small adjustments, Emily here will fit into the same dress.”

With Jess gently putting her hand on the back of my head, she pushes me out in front of her. Doris stares down at me. I couldn’t have felt more uncomfortable. I felt like I was a freak on show.

“Yes…..,” Doris mumbles, grabbing for her glasses that hang from her neck. “How are you doing sweety?”

“Hi,” I squeak.

Putting her glasses on, she looks at me in detail. Looking back up at Jess, she smiles.

“She’s a little smaller,” Doris comments. “But that should be fine. That’s easier than her being bigger!”

“Oh great!” Jess chirps

“This way then,” Doris states, beckoning me into the back of the shop. “Let's get you into the dress and I will pin it and makes some measurements.”

Following into the back area, it’s filled with half-sown dresses and mannequins. With a large desk in the middle, several large standing mirrors are off to the side.

“Here it is,” Doris says, holding up the dress to me and Jess. “Pretty, don’t you think?”

I didn’t know what to think. Pretty dresses weren’t quite my cup of tea. Having never been a girl before, it was kinda a silly question to ask me.

The dress did look expensive. The materials looked soft and thick. It looked like it would be comfortable to wear.

It was a two-tone dress. The skirt is a light purple and puffy. Clearly layered to add volume. The top half is bright white, with a jewel neckline. Or, that’s what I believe it’s called anyway.

I was kinda pleased with that. I don’t have any chest to show off, so I would prefer a higher neckline.

The dress also has no sleeves. Just frilly-looking thin purple bits coming off the shoulders.

“Do you like it Emily?” the lady asks, as I continue to stare at it.

“I guess,” I answer, not really knowing what to say. “I’ve never worn anything like it before.”

“Oh,” she replies with a smile. “Well, let's get you into it.”

“Can I go to the toilet first?” I say, suddenly desperate for a wee.

Looking around and holding my skirt, I hop on the spot.

Laughing at my wee dance, Doris points out the toilet. I head down the corridor towards it. Quickly relieving myself, I stand at the door as I dry my hands. I could hear Jess and Doris talking away in my absence.

“Who is that girl?” Doris asks softly, so I don’t hear her. “Is she a family member?”

“No…,” Jess replies, “She’s erm……,”

Throwing the paper towel I’d used to dry my hand into the wastebasket, I stand with my ear pressed against the toilet door. I was curious as to how Jess was going to explain me.

“She’s?” Doris asks, awaiting Jess’s answer.

“Don’t tell anyone,” Jess answers, her voice a little quieter than before. “She’s not family. She’s not even related. I’m really hoping she’s going to let us adopt her.”

“Adopt her?” the lady enquires, also talking slightly quieter. “Does she not have a family of her own?”

“It’s hard to explain,” Jess quickly replies. “She’s been living with this last few days this week. I wasn’t expecting her to take to me so well, but I’ve really been enjoying spending time with her. It’s kinda a dream coming true for me. Y’know, since I found out.”

“That’s lovely Jess,” Doris replies, clearly pleased for Jess. “Do you think she wants to be adopted?”

Pressing my ear harder against the toilet door, I started to feel deep regret for agreeing to be their flower girl. Coupled with the fact I just called her mom, I felt awful. I felt like I’d been playing her along. Getting her hopes up for the daughter she always wanted!

“I’m not too sure,” Jess says slowly. “She did just call me mom in another shop just now. I’m taking that as a huge signal that she might be ready. The poor girl just needs someone to give her a break. She just lost her mom and her home.”

“Crap,” I groan under my breath. “I didn’t mean it that way!”

“Poor girl,” Doris replies. “I couldn’t imagine a nicer couple than you and Kevin taking in a sweet girl like that.”

“Don’t say anything to her,” Jess replies instantly. “I don’t want to scare her away. She’s a very unique little girl. Very wise for her age and I don’t want her thinking I’m pressuring her into a big change like it. With her past, she might be very resistant to becoming my daughter.”

“I see,” the lady answers, with a secretive tone. “She’s taking her time by the way. Maybe you should go find out if she’s ok.”

“Emily!?” Jess swiftly calls out, realizing the same. “Are you ok baby?”

Instantly taking my ear from the door, I could hear her walking towards me. I didn’t want her knowing I’d heard their conversation, so I flicked the tap on and started washing my hands again.

“Emily?” Jess question from outside the toilet door. “Everything ok? We need to get this dress fitted! Don’t be nervous. No reason to hide.”

“I’m coming,” I reply, yelling through the door.

Drying my hands once more, Open the door.  Jess is leaning over, with her smiling face at my height.

“You ok Em?” she asks, gently brushing stray hairs from my face.

“Yeah,” I nervously say back with a smile. “I needed to go poo,” I continue, whispering my excuse.

“Oh,” Jess giggles, “I see…. Did you wash your hands?”

Giving a cheeky smile in response, I hold up my clean hands to her.

Smiling in return, Jess holds out her hand to guide me back to the other room.

“Please don’t hold your hand out like that Jess,” I whine, walking past her and in the direction of the other room. “I’m not a child.”

Entering the other room, Doris immediately starts bossing me about. Asking me to get undressed, she stands me on a small platform. Standing in just my panties, I shiver nervously in front of the mirrors.

To my relief, Dories quickly helps me into the dress flower girl dress. As the dress bounces around my legs and Doris zips me into it, she scuttles around me, pining parts closer to my body. She spends special attention around my stomach. The other girl who was meant to wear it clearly was wider than me. I’m such a skinny little mini.

After a good twenty minutes of measuring my body and pinning sections, she takes a step back and claps her hands.

I’d got somewhat used to seeing the girl in the mirror staring back at me, but now she’s dressed in a gown. It was weird knowing that this dress I’m wearing looked so feminine and it was perfectly suited to my tiny girly body. I looked with intrigue at how tight the dress was around my waist.

With Jess gushing at how I looked, they concluded they were both happy with how it fit me. Again, I wasn’t given any choice or asked how I felt. I think Jess was starting to live in la-la land. I think she was really starting to forget who I really am!

As we leave the mall and get into the car to go home, I hadn’t said a word to Jess since we left the dress shop. I knew I needed to make sure she understood I wasn’t staying this way. I just didn’t know how to bring it up. It was starting to really worry me was seriously stressing me out.

“Did you like the dress?” Jess asks, turning in her car seat to look back at me.

“It was fine,” I distantly reply, looking out the window.

“Does your mommy have good taste or what?” Jess boldly asks.

With a second of uncomfortable silence, I’m frustrated that she’s calling herself my mommy.

“You’re not my mother!” I growl, looking at her with a frown.

“Oh,” Jess recoils “I’m sorry, I thought you…..”

“You thought wrong!” I sneer. “Mum mother is dead and you can’t be a Mother, so stop pretending you are one at my expense!”

Without her saying a word, I could see that my words had cut her deep. I really didn’t mean it to come out like that!

With Jess turning in her seat, the atmosphere had turned sour.

“Jess…..?” I say softly, hoping to say sorry.

“What is it Steven?” she answers with irritation.

“Nothing,” I reply quietly, not having the confidence to say how I truly felt.

“Good,” Jess groans. “Let's go home. I think I need some space from you right now.”

Chapter 4

The Beautiful game

The silence was awful, Neither me nor Jess wanted to speak first.

Getting out of the car and walking up to the front of the house, Jess throws open the door and stands in the entrance looking at me.

“I’m going to bed,” she informs me, waiting for me to enter the home before closing the door. “Can you ask Kevin to sort dinner for you both….”

“Fine,” I huffed back at her, walking past.

Swiftly turning away from me as I move past, Jess stomps up the stairs and grumbles under her breath.

I know I shouted at her, but honestly, she can’t just assume I’m going to stay this way! I’m a grown man and the body of a small girl is not right for me!

Entering the living room, I try to remind myself it’s only two days away now. I only have to have this silly girl's body until the weddings finished

Then I don’t have to wear panties or dresses ever again!

“Kevin,” I say, giving him a call guy nod as sit next to him on the sofa.

“Did you like the dress?” he replies, giving me a tap on the leg. “Jess sent me a snap of you. You looked so super cute!”

“Dude….” I whined, rubbing my face. “Don’t….”

Kevin looks down at me and outrageously ruffles my long hair.

“Don’t…….,” he chuckles, as I fight with him to stop messing up my hair. “Well, that’s no fun. It’s not every day my best friend is looking so happy wearing such a pretty dress!”

Groaning with annoyance, I flatten my hair down. Brushing any last strands from my face, Kevin holds out his phone in front of me.

Jess must have taken a picture of me when I was getting it fitted. He seemed to delight at that fact.

Shit! He is right though, I do have a big smile on my face!

“See,” Kevin laughs. “Look at little Stevie’s cute girly smile in his cute girly dress!”

“Shut up man!” I yell back, feeling my eyes beginning to well up. “You try and act macho when you’ve got little girl parts between your legs. It ain't easy!”

“Little girl parts?” Kevin says, leaning back into his seat on the sofa. “Sounds like a great new nickname for you!”

Wiping a single tear from my eye, I slump down.

“Why are you being so mean to me,” I whine, with my lip quivering.

My emotions are like a rough sea. I didn’t want to cry, but I just couldn’t stop it.

“Oh man,” Kevin moans, looking down at me about to cry. “I’m sorry Steven, don’t cry.”

“It’s not you,” I reply back, now gently sobbing. “I’ve upset Jess and I’m feeling really bad about it.”

“What did you say?” He asks, scratching his head nervously.

I wanted to tell Kevin what I’d said, but it wouldn’t come out. I don’t know if I just didn’t want to admit how nasty I’d been or if my girly immature emotions just couldn’t deal with it.

“Tell me what you said…Steven,” Kevin repeats, now with a more serious tone.

I couldn’t take it any longer. I could feel the anger welling up inside me. I could feel the tears wanting to burst from my eyes.

“Steven…..?” he says, pushing me over the limit.

Throwing myself up and off the sofa, I wail out in tears. Scurrying out of the room, I enter the kitchen and crawl under the table. Hiding my face, I sob into my arms.

I felt so awful about what I’d said!

What was making me so unhappy was that the logical part of me knew it needed saying, but my emotions were scattered.

Am I losing my mind!?

Kevin doesn’t come to find me and as I continue to sob into my arms, I hear him go upstairs.

No doubt to check on his fiance.

This makes me feel even worse. Are they going to come downstairs and punish me? I hated it when they make me go to my room without dinner. It’s so degrading!

As the minutes pass, no one comes to find me and my crying eventually stops.

Looking up and out from underneath the table, I wipe my sore eyes and wonder what I should do.

Giving it some thought, I’m suddenly interrupted by a soccer ball rolling across the floor and hitting one of the dining table chairs.

Coming to a stop in front of me, Kevin's legs soon appear behind it.

“You wanna…..,” he says, kneeling down to look at me under the table. “Go for a kick around?”

Still too scared to answer, I look away from him.

“You wanna try out these new boots?” Kevin continues, placing the soccer boots Jess brought me, on the kitchen floor next to the ball.

Turning back to look, Kevin had seemingly disappeared. I could no longer even see his legs.

Tucking hair behind my ear, I crawl out from under the table.

Sitting on the floor, I pick up the boots and hold them to my feet.

“Think you may have to change out of that skirt,” Kevin says, scaring me from behind. “Pantyhose and a pleated skirt ain’t exactly regulation.”

Looking up at him, I want to give him a smile.

“I did buy you shorts the other day,” Kevin continues, trying his best to convince me.

“You……,” I say looking down at the floor nervously. “Did?”

“I sure did,” Kevin replies, dropping a pair of pink sports shorts into my lap.

Quickly holding the pink shorts up, I let out a groan of displeasure.

“Really…?” I moan. “Pink?”

“Yeah,” Kevin answers, almost offended. “They are girl's shorts. Pink is a girl's color. You are a girl.”

“Why?” I gently question, knowing I should be getting told off. “Why aren’t you upset?”

“Look,” he replies with a serious tone. “Let's go get you to change and have a kick around. I think that’s best for everyone. Gives us all a bit of time and space.”

“What about my knee?” I anxiously ask, rubbing at it.

“Since you’ve been Emily, has it hurt at all?”

“Well…no,” I reply, realizing he has a point.

“Go get your shorts on and meet me outback,” Kevin continues, now gently jogging on the spot. “If we see anyone outside..... Let's just tell them I’m your dad. I don’t want people thinking I’m hanging around with a random little girl!”

“Really….?” I gripe, looking up at Kevin jogging. “I’m really not comfortable with that.”

Instantly stopping his jogging on the spot, Kevin looks down at me with a raised eyebrow.

“So…..,” he says, rubbing his chin. “Should we just tell them the truth then….? Your my best friend and you’re now doing us a favor by being a little girl……?”

“Alright…….” I sarcastically respond, knowing he’s right. “Just don’t ask me to call you daddy. I think we’d both be in therapy with that one.”

“Agreed,” Kevin laughs, helping me to my feet. “Go and get changed”

Quickly rushing up the stairs, I stop and tiptoe past Jess’s door. I didn’t want to disturb her!

Step by step I eventually make it to my room.

Swiftly pulling down my skirt and pantyhose, I put the pink shorts on.

Looking into the mirror at my girly chicken legs, I think I look silly!

Shaking my head, I pull off my top and throw it down.

“I must have a tank top somewhere,” I mutter, looking at the clothing that had been brought for me.

Success! I find a black strap top and a tracksuit jacket.

Pulling it over my head, I tuck loose hairs behind my ears.

Also putting on some frilly white socks, I make my way back downstairs and find Kevin waiting for me.

“Well don’t you look cool,” He says smiling.

“Thanks,” I sarcastically reply, slipping my soccer boots on and lacing them up

“You wanna go to the green?” Kevin says, grabbing the ball and opening the back door.

“Sure,” I answer, standing on my studs and making clacking noises as I walk.

The green was kinda like a large play area for the local kids. Somewhere me and Kevin used to go as kids back in the day. We’d play basketball and soccer most of the time.

Doesn’t take us long to make our way to the green. Annoyingly, some kids are already playing on the soccer pitch. They aren’t using the entire thing. They’d set up two goals using their jackets on the floor as goalposts.

As we approach, Kevin throws the ball out in front of me.

“Go have some fun,” he comments, giving me a thumbs up.

Chasing after the ball, I couldn’t believe how light I felt racing across the ground. My footsteps felt like feathers compared to my old body.

“I don’t feel any pain!” I yell, turning to face Kevin. “This is awesome!”

Running as fast as my little body would allow me, I love the feeling of the wind in my long hair. I love how quick I could change direction. I especially love how much energy I have.

Kicking the ball does take more effort with my smaller muscles, but I was able to kick It quite far for a little girl.

“Hey….girl!” one of the boys playing on the pitch shouts over to me. “Pass our ball!”

Looking up, I see their slowly ball roll past me.

Jogging to fetch it, I run it towards the three young boys who are playing. They looked about my age, so I thought they might let me play.

As I dribble the ball towards the boys, I look back at Kevin to see if it was ok. He gives me a wave and a nod.

“Thanks,” the smaller of the three boys says as I approach all three.

Stopping the ball with my foot, I look at each one of them and size them up.

“Can…..I play?” I ask, looking at the tallest of the three boys.

Not getting an answer straight away, the three boys give each other looks. I could see them judging me. I bet it's because I’m a girl!

“Shall we play two on two?” the small, more friendly boy suggests.

“Sure,” the larger boy replies with a nod. “Me and Peter verse you and the girl!”

“What!” the smaller boy whines, and gives me a look. “Why do I have to play with her?”

Gritting my teeth, I stay quiet. What does It matter if I’m a girl? I was almost a pro!

“It’s your idea, Justin,” The larger boy exclaims with a smug expression.

“Fine!” Justin huffs.

Running over to Justin, I put my hand up for a high five.

“I’m St…..,” I say and instantly stop myself.

Justin gives me a weird look and leaves me hanging.

“My name is Emily,” I continue, correcting myself.

Breaking into a smile, Justin finally high fives me back.

“Are you any good?” He then asks me, as we stand side by side. “I think they are going to kill us you know!”

“Nice to meet you, Justin,” I say, with a smug expression. “Don’t be so sure. Let's give it our best!”

“Go, Emily!” Kevin shouts from the edge of the pitch, clearly knowing he’d be embarrassing me.

“Is that your dad?” Justin asks, pointing at Kevin.

Looking over at Kevin and giving him the stink eye, I turn back to Justin with a smile. “Yeah…., something like that.”

“Hey, pink shorts and Justin!” The larger boy shouts from halfway across the field, to get our attention. “First to ten!?”

“What’s his name?” I ask Justin, as we cautiously walk to the center spot.

“That’s Charlie, the one who just shouted and the other one is Peter,” Justin answers.

“Charlie!” I shout over to the other boys. “Get ready for an ass whooping!”

Not expecting them to just laugh at me, I look over at Kevin and he’s urging me on. I was kinda glad he was here. I think I’d be really nervous if it was just me here. This body of mine is pretty small and fragile.

Charlie then places the ball into the center spot and heels the ball towards Peter.

Justin then moves to block his run, causing Peter to pass back to Charlie.

I’d seen the pass coming, so I did my best to intercept the ball before it gets to Charlie. As I stop the ball with my dainty feet, I look to find Justin, but I can’t pass to him.

I could feel Charlie coming up behind me like a train. As he got closer, It dawned on me how much bigger he is than me.

Trying my best to fend Charlie off using my body, he instantly pushes me off the ball.

I fall down flat onto my hands and knees, as he steals the ball and runs off.

“Sorry pink,” he laughs, giving a quick look. “That’s why we don’t play with girls!”

Getting up and brushing myself down, I wasn’t going to take that attitude. Even though I wasn’t a real girl, just an honorary one, I wasn’t going to take that!

Being small and lighter, I easily chase him down. Justin was marking Peter, so it was up to me to stop Charlie from scoring!

Getting in front of him, I block his path towards the goal.

“I don’t think so!” Charlie laughs, easily pushing me aside once more and getting a shot at the goal.

Falling onto my backside, I huff in frustration at my lack of physicality.

“Goal!” Charlie cheers, running past me.

“Crap,” I groan and sigh.

Slowly getting to my feet, I brush myself down once more and waft stray hair from my eyes.

“You ok Em?” Justin asks, rushing over to me.

Answering him with a nod, I felt like I wanted to quit.

I wasn’t able to play the game as I wanted! In the past, I’d be throwing my weight around and making myself known to the other team.

Clearly, with my female body, that wasn’t going to happen. Maybe Charlie is right! Maybe being a girl means I shouldn’t be playing.

“Emily!” Kevin then shouts and beckons me over. “Come here for a second!”

Running over, I wipe a few tears from my eyes so he wouldn’t know I was feeling sad.

“Being a girl sucks,” I whine, as I slow to a walk, towards him.

Getting down on his knee, I give Kevin a funny look. Was he trying to make fun of me for being short?

“You’re not a six-foot busier anymore,” Kevin states, looking me in the eye with a serious expression. “You’ve got to change up your playing style!”

Rubbing the tears from my eyes once more, I slowly nod my head with the realization that I’m not going to be able to play with them.

“Hey now…..,” Kevin says, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder. “Don’t get sad! You need to play to the strengths of your new body.”

“Yeah…..?” I answer with a sniff.

“Yes!” Kevin continues with confidence. “You’re quick and agile! You need to be tricky! Think about all those times you had issues defending against guys who were a lot smaller than you. They ran rings around you with their skills and speed!”

“Yeah, that’s right!” I reply with a smile streaming across my face.

Turning back toward the pitch, I now had renewed determination. I knew what I needed to do!

Running back towards Justin, I turn back to face Kevin. “Thanks….err……Dad!”

Rejoining Justin, who is waiting for me on the center spot, I give him a high five.

“You ready?” I ask, excited to kick off again.

He nods and smiles in reply.

Rolling the ball to Justin, he dribbles with the ball off to the side, with Peter chasing close behind.

Charlie soon as me marked and he’s blocking Justin’s pass to me.

Knowing I could outspeed him, I run as fast as I can into space. Justin sees and passes the ball through Peter's legs.

Controlling the ball, I knew I only had seconds until Charlie caught up with me.
Instead of bracing my body to fend him off, I kick the ball out in front of me. I dribble with the ball towards the goal.

Controlling the ball with my quick feet, I could hear Charlie huffing and puffing to keep up with me.

“Emily!” Justin cries out, making himself open for a pass.

Looking up to find him, he was in space and with a great opportunity to score and level our game.

“Give me the ball Pink!” Charlie growls, steaming up behind me.

I wasn’t going to have enough time to pass, I needed to do something else! Knowing I could hold him off, I had to think of something.

Wating until Charlie was super close, I quickly flick the ball between his moving legs and jump out of his way.

Before he even knew what was going on, I’d dogged him and run off after the ball!

Smiling like I’d won the jackpot, I pass the ball across the ground to Justin, who moves past Peter with ease and scores a goal!

“GOAL!” I yell out, running towards Justin with my arms up into the air.

“That was awesome!” Justin yells back, throwing both his hands up for a double-high five.

Slapping our hands together, Justin’s face was alight with a huge grin.

“For a girl….you can really play!” He playfully comments.

“Thanks!” I cheer, feeling the rush of the game that I’d missed so much.

This was the first time I’d played the game for years. After my knee injury, I was told never to play again. I was so very gutted. If I’m completely honest, I think it was around that time that my life started falling apart.

“Did your dad teach you?” Justin asks, pointing an excited and clapping Kevin.

“Sure,” I answer, as we both jog back to our side of the center spot. “Something like that.”

Feeling so happy about playing, the time flew past. The sun has almost gone down completely by the time Kevin called me over to go home.

Me and Justin didn’t end up winning, but that wasn’t important for me. Just playing the game was enough!

I’d forgotten just how playing the beautiful game made me feel. So free and so happy!

Not only that, Justin was being really friendly.

As I said goodbye to them all, Justin asked me to come over to his house to play video games.

I had to decline his offer, but it felt kinda nice making a new friend.

I did promise to play on his team again. Hopefully, I can get another game with them before the wedding!

Waving as we both leave the green, Kevin looks down at me and smiles.

“You enjoyed that,” he says, gently brushing dirt out of my hair.

“Did you see me?” I excitedly ask, reliving moments in my mind. “I was really good….wasn’t I dad?”

“You’ve still got it!” Kevin exclaims and gently taps me on the back.

Coming through the back door of the house, Kevin makes me take my dirty boots off.

Making me head upstairs to change out of my dirty clothes, I throw them into the wash bin.

Not knowing what to wear, I just grab the pair of skinny jeans I’d been brought and one of the pink girly t-shirts.

Being careful not to disturb Jess, I make my downstairs and into the kitchen, where Kevin is cleaning my boots over the sink.

“That was so much fun!” I say, giving Kevin a big smile as he turns to look at me. “That Justin boy also asked me to go round his house!”

“He did?” Kevin chuckles, turning his attention back to the dirty boots.

“Yeah,” I cheerfully continue, untying my hair and letting my hair cascade around my shoulders. “It’s nice to make new friends, huh?”

“Sure is,” Kevin replies, scrubbing at the dirt.

Stroking my long hair out straight, I look up at Kevin and I wonder if I should go say sorry to Jess.

“Dad…..err…..,” I mutter, then instantly correct myself. “Kevin……do you think I should go say sorry to Jess?”

Kevin turns to me and his smile has become a little more serious.

“Yeah….about that?” he says, putting my boots onto the washboard. “What did you say to her?”

Feeling the blood rush to my cheeks, I was starting to feel like I was in trouble. Remembering why I felt so upset earlier.

“Can I explain myself first?” I ask, not being able to look him in the face.

Feeling really uncomfortable, I allow some of my hair to cover my eyes. It kinda felt nice I could hide behind my hair.

“Ok then,” Kevin replies, now standing directly in front of me. “I have to be honest Emily. I haven’t seen her so upset in a long time.”

“I’m sorry!” I cry out, stamping my foot in frustration.

“Tell me what happened,” Kevin gently replies.

“She’s been treating me like a child the entire time Kevin!” I complain, folding my arms. “Constantly telling me what I can and can’t do!”

“I mean, you are a nine-year-old girl,” Kevin scoffs in reply. “But go on, tell me what’s upsetting you.”

“Where to start!” I grumble, giving him a dirty look. “I mean, first off….why does she have to make all the decisions for me? I can’t have coffee. I can’t have my cell phone. I have to go to bed early. I have to brush my hair…… She even decides what I can wear! I don’t want to wear dresses all the time!”

Rubbing his face, Kevin groans and looks down at me unimpressed.

“Emily,” he says sternly. “She’s just trying to help you adjust to being a girl. You’re going to be wearing a dress for the wedding, so she wanted you to get used to wearing them. If she’d given you the choice, you’d be wearing an outfit like you are now.”

Glancing at my skinny jeans, I look up at Kevin and give him a wry smile.

“See,” Kevin says, holding his hand out at my clothing. “As much as you don’t care to admit. You are a very young girl and very young girls don’t drink coffee and they do go to bed early!”

Not wanting to hear it, I turn my head away sharply, flicking my long hair around as I do.

“You still have told me why she’s upset,” Kevin gripes, tapping his foot.

“Well….,” I say, tucking hair behind my ears. “She also keeps holding her hand out for me, like I’m a child and she keeps telling everyone who asks that she’s my mom!”

“……Emily,” Kevin huffs in disappointment. “You’ve called me dad twice now. What else she is supposed to tell people when you’re out and about and you start calling her mom? It’s just easier.”

“She’s not my mom Kevin!” I scream back, getting extremely upset. “My mom’s…..dead!”

Sobbing, I cover my face with my hands.

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Kevin asks, softly placing a hand on my shoulder.

“Cos!” I sob in reply.

“I’m so sorry Emily,” Kevin continues. “Jess just told me earlier and I had no idea!”

“Not….only that,” I continue, talking through my hands covering my face. “I lost my job and the family home to debt.”

Now placing both his hands on my shoulders, Kevin kneels in front of me.

“Oh man….,” he huffs. “I had no idea.”

Still sobbing, Kevin gently pulls me in towards him. Like a huge blanket, he brings me close to his chest and holds me tight.

“When did she pass on?” He asks, gently stroking my hair.

Tearing up, I struggle to answer him through the tears.

“About…..Five……,” I stop and hold my face deep into his chest. “About five months ago!”

“That explains it,” Kevin replies, like he’s solved a puzzle. “You kinda fell off the radar, didn’t you? I thought we hadn’t seen you much because you were mad about me not having you as my best man.”

Slowly nodding my head, Kevin pushes me back from our embrace and holds me by my shoulders.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” He asks, giving me a worried look. “I thought you were mad at me and needed space. Now I find out you needed me more than ever! I feel awful!”

Still crying, I don’t answer him, I just look at the floor,

“To lose your house and everything,” Kevin continues, shaking his head. “Is that why you came here the other night….desperate to help?”

Whimpering, I just slowly nod in reply.

“Is it also why you were so willing to transform into the body of a little girl?” He questions, having me completely sussed out.

I answer again with a small nod.

“Jesus Emily,” Kevin groans and brings me back in for a tight hug. “We would have let you stay here if you’d told us!”

Hugging me tightly, I burst out into floods of tears. Sobbing and whimpering, Kevin kept holding me tight until I’d calmed down.

Gently stroking my long hair, I eventually do stop crying.

“I can’t believe you’d be willing to swap your gender just to have somewhere to stay!” Kevin laughs, pushing me back, but still holding onto my shoulders like before.

Wiping my sore red eyes, I shake my head at him.

“It’s n-not just to stay h-here,” I reply with a few sniffs. “I r-really do want to be part of my best friend's wedding too.”

Giving me a smile, he wipes a tear from my cheek.

“I know man,” he says with joy in his eyes. “I wanted you to be part of it too. I wouldn’t say this in front of Jess, but I’m glad you are man enough to transform into a little girl. I don’t know if I’d have the balls to do that.”

“I don’t have any balls,” I jokingly reply with a wry smile.

“True!” Kevin gently laughs. “Still, I think I understand why you’ve got upset with Jess. You never actually told me what you said to her though.”

“I told her she wasn’t my mom,” I answer, looking down at the floor embarrassed. “I also went on to tell her she would never be a mom,”

“I see,” Kevin says, letting go of my shoulders. “Yeah……., that’s going to have upset her.”

“I’m really sorry!” I cry out. “I didn’t mean to be so nasty!”

Shaking his head, Kevin looks down at me with tears welling up behind his eyes.

“Let me tell you something about Jess,” he says, wiping at eyes. “Jess is from a very very old family of witches. With Jess, the family chain is broken. She has no one to teach her witchcraft to. The family secrets will end with her, and she will break a chain that stretches back hundreds of years.”

“Oh,” I say listening intently.

“Because she’s been unable to have a daughter, her mother and father have completely disowned her. She’s not allowed to practice her witchcraft at all because she is seen as a failure in the family's eyes.”

“That’s not fair!” I blurt out in anger.

“Totally,” Kevin replies, nodding. “Like you, she’s unable to do the thing she loves, and she’s lost her entire family. All because she can’t have a child. Can you imagine what that’s like for her?”

“That’s awful,” I reply, shaking my head.

“Yeah!” Kevin continues, looking down at the floor. “Why do you think the flower girl is so important to her?”

“I dunno?” I reply, completely unaware as to why.

“She wants the flower girl to walk her down the aisle. Kevin states, looking at me directly in the eye. “She’s been so very excited about it now, knowing it’s you who’s walking her down the aisle.”

“Shit!” I moan, gently slapping my forehead with my palm. “And I go and say those nasty things to her!”

“It’s more than that,” Kevin continues, still looking at me with a serious expression. “What you’ve given her, is a taste of motherhood. I see her bouncing out of bed in the morning to go help you get ready. Honestly, I’ve never seen her like this. She’s glowing and it’s all because of you being in our home.”

“So….me telling her not to mother me……,” I say, understanding the situation. “It’s breaking her heart because I’m stopping her from doing something she can’t do naturally?”

“That’s right kiddo,” Kevin says with a sigh. “Do you understand a little more why what you said has cut her deep?”

Understanding, I just give Kevin a sorrowful nod.

“I do,” I answer with a dour tone.

“You are incredibly adorable y’know,” Kevin says, brightening the mood with a chuckle. “Even I felt something when you called me dad earlier.”

“You did?” I ask, tilting my head to the side.

“Yeah,” He replies with a big smile. “But that doesn’t matter. You and Jess need to have a long talk I think. The wedding is in two days and I’d really like for everyone to be on good terms!”

Giving him a smile back, I knew what I had to do to make it better.

“I will go say sorry,” I tell him. “I think I’m going to change into a dress first.”

“Good choice,” Kevin grins, standing up and giving me a thumbs up. “You may want to brush your hair and blow your nose. You’ve been crying and I’m sure she doesn’t want to see your snotty nose.”

Gently touching my nose, he was right. How embarrassing!

“Don’t worry!” Kevin laughs, reaching for some kitchen towel. “I told you! You are so incredibly adorable. A little snot ain't going to put anyone off!”

Taking the kitchen towel from his hands, I dab at my nose.

“Ok,” I say, handing the kitchen towel back to him. “Any advice for me on how to say sorry to your future wife?”

Kevin rolls his eyes and hums.

“I’d start by telling her about your soccer game.” He says, giving me a smile. “She was so pleased that you let her buy those boots. She will be happy to know you had a good time!”

“Thanks, Da…..,” I go to say, but stop myself. “Thanks, Kevin!”

Laughing, Kevin steps back to the sink and starts cleaning my boots again.

“No problem, Emily!” he chuckles. “That’s what dads are for!”

Chapter 5

The Wedding

The house this morning is frantic!

The bridal party is here, and everyone is getting ready for the big day.

I’m currently just trying to stay out of everyone’s way, eating my cereal at the dining table still wearing my unicorn nighty!

I feel so out of place. I have absolutely no idea what to do or say!

I’m super terrified that I will get under one of the frenzied lady’s feet and get a scolding.

I mean, the half-naked women running about the place like headless chickens, should be an alluring sight to me, but I find myself more interested in how Jess is.

She’s glowing! I can see the happiness radiating from her and infecting everyone with big smiles!

Kevin on the other hand, stayed away last night. As is tradition for weddings. Him in his ‘best’ man went off to do whatever they’d had planned.

Obviously, I wasn’t invited…. being the flower girl and all.

I knew Jess could tell it was bothering me last night. I watched him leave the house knowing that it should have been me with him, but Instead, I ended up having my nails painted and my hair washed.

Not how I imagined spending the night before Kevin’s wedding! Not one bit!

Jess’s head bride's maid, Yasmin, was someone I’d met maybe once or twice before. Kevin and Jess introduced us both at a party once.

I think she was interested in me, but I never wanted to do anything about it. She’s was a bit much, even back then.

Come to think of it, I think that might be why we’ve never really talked.

I do kinda feel like I’m living every teenage boy's dream right now though. I keep getting the full view of the half-naked women running about the house.

Sometimes….very much naked!

I have to assume that Jess hasn’t mentioned who I really am. I don’t think Yasmin would have walked into the living room with her breasts out otherwise.

The strangest thing for me is that I’m really finding myself uninterested. My male body would be reacting in very clear and lusty ways.

This girl’s body, not so much. I kinda just felt a little uncomfortable. Kinda making me feel….a guess a little jealous of them….?

Swirling my spoon in my cereal milk, I look down at my flat chest and sigh.

“What's wrong, sweety!?” Yasmin yells out in her trademark bellowing voice.

A little scared by her just immense size compared to me, I look at her like she’s a predator and I’m the prey.

What can I say!?  She terrified me when I was a man, Imagine what it’s like now I’m a little girl!

“I’m….okay,” I answer, not wanting to engage her too much.

Thankfully, Yasmin had now put on a bra but was still not in her dress.

Rumbling over to me, her body bounces and jiggles. Just another reason why I’m so scared of her!

“Good baby girl!” she excitedly yells, pretty much point-blank from my face. “You’ve got an important role today! You better not mess it up Hunny bun!”

“Uh-huh,” I answer, looking up at her in dread.

“Good baby girl!” she bellows, patting me on the head like a dog.

Her fat hands send shock waves down my spine.

I grumble and flap her away.

“Don’t be so moody baby girl,” she gripes, leaning in towards me with a sinister grin. “Jessie has told me how you’ve been a little naughty recently! I want you to know that aunty Yasmin is watching you like a hawk!”

“O….o…okay,” I mumble, as my lips quiver.

“Good, baby girl!” she smiles, standing back up straight. “Just make sure you keep your dress clean, hair neat, and absolutely no backchat! This is Jessica and Kevin's big day. It won’t be ruined by some little girl….okay baby girl…?”

About to answer back, Yasmin’s attention is drawn away from me. The makeup artist needs to do her makeup.

As Yasmin stomps away, I stick my tongue out at her. She’s treating me like a silly little child! I’m older than her for goodness sake!

“Hey, Emily…!” the makeup artist calls over to me as Yasmin stands next to her. “Once I’m done here, it’s your turn, next sweetheart, ok?”

“Yes ma’am,” I answer, giving her a smile.

Yasmin gives me a dirty look, they both turn away.

As they both walk down the hallway, I hear the makeup lady call me a cute kid. I think I like her already.

Getting down from the table, I put my bowl in the kitchen and scurry to get comfortable in the living room.

I’d been feeling a little more comfortable in my unicorn nighty recently. Even though my little legs are out, I wasn’t in any rush to change.

Climbing up onto the sofa, I sit crossed legged and pull my nighty down to cover my knee’s

Switching on the TV, I reach for my new cell phone.

You see, Jess decided if I was going to go out and play soccer with the boys while I’m like this, I should at least have a phone for safety.

Seeing as we didn’t want anyone to find out about my transformation, we just got me a new phone and number.

I was reluctant at first, but when Kevin pointed out that I could accidentally answer my old cell phone in this girl's body, it made more sense to me.

The cell they brought for me wasn’t the latest model by far, but it did the job.

I mostly used it for watching videos and scrolling the sports scores. Oh, and messaging Justin.

We’d been playing together a lot since the other day. He’s a massive video games fan and so am I!

My wallpaper image on my new cell was even a picture of us both celebrating a goal!

I didn’t even think of that as strange anymore. When I look at the picture of us both, I don’t see a Justin and a young girl, I see me and him.

It’s like when someone says the name Emily now, I respond to it like it’s been my name forever.

Getting comfortable, I see I’ve got a message from Justin.

He’s just asking if I’m wanna play soccer later. I decide to call him.

As the phone rings, I twiddle some hair between my fingers as I wait.

“Hey,” he whispers, answering my call

“Hiya,” I reply. “Why are you whispering?”

“I-I don’t want my sister to hear us talking,” he answers nervously.

“Why not?” I gripe, pulling a sour face.

“Emily….,” Justin complains, not wanting me to make a big deal out of it. “Your….a….girl.”

“So….!?” I sharply reply, feeling a little offended. “What does that matter?”

For a moment, Justin doesn’t answer. I just hear him rustling around. Then after a few seconds, I hear him shutting a door closed in the background.

“If my sister hears me talking to a girl…..I won’t hear the end of it,” he murmurs, desperately for me to understand.

“Oh….” I reply, anxiously twisting some of my hair between my fingers. “I forget how young we are.”

“Huh…?” Justin replies in a confused manner.

“Nothing,” I answer quickly. “SO….you're worried your sister is going to tease you for talking to a girl…?”

“Yeah,” Justin says instantly. “She saw that picture of us both on my phone the other day and she won’t stop saying I’m in love with you!”

“Seriously…?” I question, now nervously twisting my hair. “Dude…we are teammates!”

“That’s what I told her,” he answers.

“Want me to have a word with her…?” I confidently say, knowing I could handle her.

“No way!” Justin groans. “She’d kill me!”

“Well…. too bad I’m busy today huh!?” I sarcastically reply, trying to wind him up.

Laughing, I wait for him to answer.

“Shut it flower girl!” he jokingly replies back. “Go put on a dress or something!”

Twisting the strand of hair between my fingers even tighter, I grin and smile.

“I’ve gotta get my makeup done first,” I answer. “Then it’s time for my dress!”

“Sounds boring,” Justin huffs.

“I know what you mean,” I reply, trying to seem cool.

The silence between us lingers for a moment. I wonder if I should continue talking to fill the void.

Eventually, I hear Justin’s voice crack as he talks.

“E-Emily…,” he nervously mutters. “C-can you s-send a picture to me of you in your dress….?”

“Sure….,” I answer, not hesitating for one moment. “It will make us seem even more like a couple though. Are you sure you want that..?”

“I do!” he replies with glee. “I think you are soo pretty and I’d love to see you in your dress!”

“You do…..!?” I instantly yell, shocked by his comment.

Not really knowing how to feel about Justin's brash behavior, I look around the room anxiously hoping it didn’t mean what I thought it meant.

Does he like me…!?

It has been super cool hanging with him, but that’s certainly not what I should want to happen when I’m transformed like this.

Terrified, my eyes are super wide as I wait for him to answer.

Justin says nothing.

That’s when Yasmin comes bounding into the room once more. The walls almost rumble with the sheer volume of the woman.

“Baby girl!” She yells, stomping over to me. “You need to go get your makeup done right now!”

Desperately waiting for Justin to reply, I don’t immediately acknowledge Yasmin.

That was a big mistake on my part!

“Girl!” she screams, storming over and easily snatching the phone from my little fingers. “You listen to me when I talk to you!”

“Hey!” I Whine, trying to snatch it back.

“Naughty girl!” Yasmin growls, hanging up my call and holding the phone higher than I can reach. “Whoever you were talking to, it can wait! Now get into the other room before I spank your backside!”

I feel the anger welling up inside of me. Tears of frustration had started forming in my eyes as I stare daggers at this evil woman.

“Get!” She hisses, pointing towards the door.

Narrowing my eyes, I give her the dirtiest look I can muster. Yasmin is not impressed!

“Don’t you look at me like that!” she says, gritting her teeth “Such a naughty girl! Your parents must be ashamed.”

Gritting my teeth just the same, I form little fists with my hands. If only I was taller, I’d be giving this woman a piece of my mind.

“Wanna say something baby girl…?” Yasmin smirks, looking down at me. “You should feel lucky Kevin and Jess are such pushovers. I’d never let such a little whore into my home!”

“WHORE!?” I cry out with tears streaming down my face.

“Oh, here we go…..!” Yasmin complains, throwing her head back and looking away. “Bring out the waterworks. That ain't guna work on me…baby girl.”

Sobbing at how nasty she was being, I couldn’t look at her any longer. I dip my head and sob into my arms.

“I saw you…,” Yasmin whispers as she leans down to be at my height. “Playing soccer with those boys. Don’t think you’re fooling me. You aren’t interested in spots….”

Feeling rather scared, I just continue to hide my face. I can feel the tears running down my arms as I press them tightly to my face.

“I know what you’re interested in, little whore,” she continues to whisper, but in a much more sinister tone. “You’re after all the male attention…aren’t you. A young girl like you…it’s disgusting,”

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing from her! Why does she think that!? Why is she being so mean!? I should go tell Jess!

Cautiously lowering my arms so I could see, I then rub the tears from my eyes. I wanted to run straight to Jess and tell her what was happening, but Yasmin was blocking my way.

“Baby girl…..,” Yasmin says cheerfully like she has flicked a switch in her brain. “Don’t think for one second you are going to tell Jess what I’ve said about you.” She continues, smiling down at me.

Wiping my eyes, I look up at her stupid smirking face.

“It’s her big day….baby girl,” she giggles, making it obvious that she’s confiscating my phone. “If you go into that room all upset and weepy, she’s going to get mad at you.”

“N-no….s-she w-won’t,” I whimper, wiping tears from my cheeks.

“Yes, she will!” Yasmin snaps, but then instantly gives me a fake smile. “I heard what you said to her the other day. I know how you made her feel, telling her she’d never be a mother. Do you think she’d believe anything you said after that?”

“She would!” I exclaim, narrowing my eyes as I glare back at her.

“Why don’t you try it then baby girl,” Yasmin smirks, pointing back at the door. “You'll make her all upset on her big day…..”

Frustrated and super angry, I knew Yasmin was right.

Who was I to ruin her morning by complaining about this witch of a woman! The things she just said about me would no longer matter in a few days when Jess gives me the potion to transform back.

Swallowing my pride, I wipe the tears from my face and hop off the sofa. I could see the smug triumphant look on Yasmin's face as I walked past her.

I knew I had to push any negative feelings down and get on with it for now!

“Good little girl,” Yasmin spitefully comments, as I leave the room.

Walking down the corridor towards Jess’s room, I stop to take a moment to dry my eyes. As much as I wanted to tell her how much of a jerk Yasmin is, I knew it wouldn’t help anyone.

That’s when the door opens in front of me. It’s the makeup lady and she gives me a gentle smile.

“Oh, good timing my dear,” she says, opening the door to let me in.

Loudy sniffing, I wipe my eyes and give the makeup lady a smile.

Walking into the room, Jess is standing at her full-length mirror. She has her back to me and she is wearing a big white puffy dressing gown.

“Take a seat in front of the mirror sweety,” the makeup lady says to be, rustling in her makeup bag.

“Oh, Emily!” Jess turns and smiles.

I’d never seen Emily looking so beautiful! Her hair was picture perfect and put into the most precious-looking bun. Her eyes are absolutely stunning and her makeup was so very lush.

Even though she was just in a dressing gown, I couldn’t stop looking at how gorgeous she is. Kevin is so lucky!

“Wow!” I say, pointing with a smile. “So pretty!”

Instantly she smiles, but she soon points at my face and looks worried.

“Hunny,” she says, kneeling in front of me and looking me in the eye. “Have you been crying….?”

“No,” I answer, turning my head to look away.

I could feel Jess’s eyes burning into my soul. I wanted to tell her at that moment, but I really didn’t want to see her upset and ruin her makeup.

“Emily…?” she continues, moving my face back to hers with a touch of my cheek.

Looking into her eyes, I could see she was worried.

“Don’t worry about her Jessica,” Yasmin booms from the doorway, making us all turn to look.

I glare back at her.

“Oh, why not?” Jess asks. “She’s clearly been crying.”

“You fell and bumped your knee….,” Yasmin says, looking at me with a soulless smile. “Didn’t you….baby girl!”

I absolutely didn’t want this to turn ugly. I saw how happy Jess was a moment ago! How could I ruin that!

Turning to face Jess, I look down at the floor.

“Is this true Emily..?” Jess asks, touching my chin and lifting my face.

“Y-yeah…..,” I slowly answer, giving her a small smile. “I hurt my knee.”

“See,” Yasmin blurts out. “Let's get her makeup done so we can move onto the dresses ladies…. Chop chop!”

Hearing Yasmin shuffles off, Yasmin looks down at me unconvinced. I give her the biggest smile I could muster.

“I’m ok….,” I tell her, placing my hand onto hers. “We should let the make-up lady do my face now, don’t you think?”

“Are you sure you want that…?” Jess asks, giving me a smile back. “I don’t want to force it on you.”

“It’s ok,” I answer, getting onto the chair and looking at my girly figure in the mirror.

Folding my legs, I cover my knees with my nighty.

“I’m looking forward to being pretty for you,” I say, giving her a wink.

Jess grins and gives me a very quick cuddle.

“Thanks,” she says, standing up to allow the makeup lady some space.

I watch them both looking at me through the reflection of the mirror.

“So,” Jess says, looking into my eyes through the mirror. “Nothing too heavy on her. Just light natural makeup. Maybe a little eye shadow to make her eyes sparkle.”

The makeup lady nods.

“See you in a bit,” Jess chirps, giving me a pat on my head and she leaves the room.

For the next thirty minutes, the makeup lady wafts around me, doing this and that to my face. I didn’t want to ask what she was putting on it, she seemed to know what she was doing.

Like the times I’d had my makeup done before, I really enjoyed the attention and the soft brushes on my skin. So relaxing.

Every time I was able to get a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I look at a tiny bit more feminine each time. The mascara and the eye shadow really made me look feminine.

I couldn’t believe how big my eyes are. I’d never really studied my face this much before. If they were any bigger…I’d be a Disney princess!

If that wasn’t enough for me to relax, the hair brushing was going to tip me over the edge!
The lady spent a good ten minutes brushing every single knot from my hair. She did it so gently and smoothly. Such a lovely experience!

“So,” she says softly, continuing to brush. “What are we doing with your hair, my dear..?”

“I think they want it just up in a pretty bun, like Jess’s,” I answer.

“Oh sure,” she replies, putting the brush down and running her hands through my long brunette hair. “Should be an issue. You’ve got very nice hair…y’know.”

Another ten minutes fly past as the lady plats and bounds my hair into a bun. It felt weird at first having so much weight on that part of my head, but after a few minutes, I’d got used to it.

“Seems you’re ready to go get into your dress, sweety,” the lady tells me, gently pushing the last hair clip into my hair. “Just don’t go touching your hair too much. You need to look pretty for the photos!”

“Thanks!” I answer, jumping up off the seat.

Turning to give the lady a big smile, I proudly march by her and towards the door.

Standing at the door, I turn and give the lady one more look. She gives me a cute wink as I look at her.

“Off you go sweety,” she comments, packing up her things. “You don’t want you, mom, to be late now…do you…?”

My mom….? Oh, she means Jess.

“No, I…..don’t,” I reply, giving her a playful shake of my head. “Thanks anyway. I like what you did with my hair!”

Leaving the room much happier than I entered, my mood quickly changed as I knew Yasmin was still in the house.

Making my way into the living room, where Jess has her wedding gown hanging, I prepare myself for the next stage.

Actually putting on this flower girl dress that’s been made for me.

Cautiously entering, I see Yasmin and the other bridesmaid, Alex, circling Jess in the middle of the room.

Alex, I haven’t really spoken to much. We’d never met until this day, but she seemed very friendly. She looked super attractive in that bright red bridesmaid dress.

Her legs are so super long and that hair of hers. It had me feeling a little jealous mine isn't that bright blonde.

As much as Alex was looky so pretty….I had to say I was very pleased to see Yasmin had finally gotten into her dress!

I don’t want to be mean, especially know I kinda understand how much pressure is put on a girl to look pretty, but she wasn’t fitting into her dress very well.

Her chest is absolutely massive! Looks like such a nightmare! I’m glad I’m not dealing with that right now.

That’s when I see Jess in her wedding dress for the first time.

I could feel the pride in me gushing to the surface! She looked like a goddess!

I loved the way the dress formed around her lush curves and the pretty detailing around her waist and chest.

The way the dress also hung from her shoulders, showed so much of her slender upper body. She looked like a model from a magazine!

“Jess….!” I gush, rushing over. “You look so amazing!”

Holding my hands over my mouth to hold back my excitement, Jess looks down and beams a smile.

“You think…?” Jess bashfully asks, going a little red.

I look her perfect figure up and down once more and give her a playful wink.

“Trust me…,” I giggle, “Kevin is going to fall in love all over again!

Looking each other in the eye, we both share a moment. She knows I’m telling her the truth. Being his best friend, I’m so privileged to see her looking like this before him

“Listen to this little one,” Yasmin laughs, pushing me slightly away to help Jess adjust the dress. “I don’t doubt Kevin is going to be thrilled, but listen to her pretending she knows what grown men think….it’s adorable.”

Jess gives me a sideways glance and a smile.

“Emily….,” Alex then calls to me.

I look over and the pretty blonde lady is holding up my dress with a smile.

“Yasmin is going to finish fitting Jess,” she says, waving me over. “Do you want me to help you put on your dress..?

Excited that it wasn’t Yasmin, I skip over to her.

“Yeah please,” I say, giving her a smile.

Touching my dress with my fingers, I could feel how soft the material was. The skirt looked so massive and bulky compared to the torso part. The skirt looked like it was made from several different layers.

Very different from any of the dresses I’ve worn so far.

The dress didn’t have sleeves, just these super-thin see-through purple bits that stick out.

The skirt was also the same color purple as the sleeves. The top part is a bright white. The dress also had a large purple sash across the middle. I guess this will be tied as a bow behind my back.

“Have you got fresh underwear on Emily?” Alex asks, looking down at my nighty.

I look down at my unicorn nighty and shake my head from side to side.

“Jess….?,” Alex calls out. “Is Emily wearing a bra with this dress or just panties..?”

“She doesn’t need a bra,” Yasmin blurts out.

Silence falls over us all for a second, before Jess speaks up.

“Erm…,” she says, holding up her arms, allowing Yasmin to adjust the fit. “There are some training bras in her room. It’s up to Emily if she wants to wear one though.”

Alex looks down at me and she grins.

“I’d wear a bra, Emily. I remember being your age. Always made me feel so grown up wearing one.” she whispers. “Go get some clean underwear and hurry back… ok sweety!”

Throwing her a smile as I quickly run to my room, I decide I’m going to wear a bra. Right now I’m a girl, so I might as well get the most out of this experience.

Grabbing the fresh underwear and training bra, I rush back into the room.

Yasmin gives me a dirty look as I enter, but I ignore her and walk straight over to Alex.

“I’m ready,” I say, showing her my underwear.

“Good,” Alex replies, clapping her hands together. “Let's get you ready!”

Pulling my nighty over my head, trying to be super careful of my hair and makeup, Alex chucks it off to one side.

Usually, I’d be super bashful standing naked in my body right now, but Alex’s smile had me at ease.

“Ok Emily,” she says, taking hold of the bra, and guiding my arms into the straps. “Do you wanna try to do the clasp..?”

As she threads the straps onto my shoulders, I reach around my back and Alex gives me a nod. Helping me find the clasps, Alex helps me strap the bra together.

“There we go,” she cheers. “Growing up so fast!”

I look down at my chest and see the bright pink bra clinging to my chest.

“Tight….aren’t they,” I comment.

“You’ll get used to it.” Alex giggles. “Now, can you pull your panties up, and then we will get you into your dress.”

Moments later, Alex has unzipped the back of my dress and is holding it up to me. She signals for me to step into it.

I do, and seconds later, she has the dress pulled up over my body and resting on my shoulders.

“It’s really heavy,” I moan, feeling the weight of the skirt and all that material.

“Hey,” Alex whispers into my ear as she adjusts the fit of it around my waist. “Jess needs you to be a big girl today. Trust me, it’s looks so pretty and it will be worth it!”

“O…kay,” I answer back, with a whisper.

Giving me a grin, Alex moves around me and zips up the back.

“You’re in,” she happily comments. “Now for your pretty little sash.”

Pulling the sash tight behind me, it sinches in my stomach. It almost makes me look like I’ve got hips and a narrow waist.

“So, did you know…?” Alex says quietly to me, as she works on the sash. “I’m going to be doing the flower girl job, because…your walking Jess down the aisle.”

“You are…?” I reply softly. “I’m super honored she’s letting me walk her down the aisle.”

“Your so cute,” Alex quietly giggles. “Honestly… I thought the whole thing with her family not coming was going to bother her more. If ask me, she’s thrilled you’re doing it for her.”

“Yeah….?” I answer, more excited.

“Yeah, Hunny bun,” she grins. “Just make sure you hold her hand tight, don’t walk too fast, and smile that pretty little face off….okay?”

“I will!” I chirp. “I will do my best!”

The rest of the morning is a little frantic. Once, we’d all got into our dresses and the ladies had got into their heels, the driver had already arrived and was ready to take us to the church.

As we leave the house, I could see the nerves getting to Jess. She looked worried and a little stressed.

Giving her my hand, I think she reply apricated the support.

Stuffing her into the car, careful not to damage her perfect white dress, we are all quiet on the journey over.

As we pulled up at the church, it looked beautiful in the late morning sunshine. They couldn’t have got luckier with the weather.

I mean, I wasn’t going to complain. I’m wearing a very frilly dress that wasn’t going to protect me from the elements.

No one was standing outside. It must be that all the guests and Kevin must be waiting inside. We are a little late!

As we all get out, the ladies fuss over Jess and me, ensuring we look our best.

Alex rushes over to the church and pokes her head inside to check everyone was in. Throwing us all a big thumbs up, Yasmin hugs Jess and wishes her luck.

As we all lineup, getting into order out the front of the church, I stand next to Jess and watch the emotions on her face.

I could see her breathing heavily. She looks nervous.

“Hey Jess,” I say, gaining her attention as the bridesmaids rush around getting everything in order.

“Kevin loves you more than life itself,” I tell her, giving her a big grin. “Please don’t look so worried, I wanna see your pretty smile!”

Jess forces a small smile and nods.

“Thanks, Emily,” she gently smiles. “I was just thinking about my family and how they aren’t here. Still hurts me.”

“Don’t think about it,” I say sternly, shaking my head.

“It’s hard not to,” Jess replies, staring nervously at the church entrance.

I take hold of her hand and squeeze it tight. Jess looks back down at me and smiles.

“It’s hard not to think about it when you’ve been like a daughter to me these last few days,” she admits. “They not here because I can’t have a daughter. It’s so ironic!”

“I’m proud of you,” I respond, squeezing her hand again. “Please, just imagine Kevin's face when he sees you. I’m going to be right here next to you. I’m honored you’re letting me do this for you. I’m honored you’re letting me give you away.”

“Let's do this,” Jess exclaims, looking down at me with fierce determination.

As we grip each other's hands tight we both focus on the bridal party ahead of us.

Alex, holding the flower girl basket stands with one of Kevin's ushers and Yasmin stands next to another.

Behind those two couples, Jess and I stand at the back of the cue.

“Ready everyone?” Yasmin yells back at us.

Jess raises her hand to give a thumbs up.

My heart rate goes wild as we start slowly marching in. I could feel It beating away in my little chest.

Just as I feel myself getting nervous, Jess grips my hand tighter and I look up at her and instantly remember why I’m doing this.

As the Bridal Chorus booms from the large organ inside the church, we enter the grand hall one by one.

Entering the prestigious old building, I felt so small.

I wanted to see Kevin's expression as I walked Jess down the aisle.  Sadly for me, I couldn’t see past Yasmin's fat behind!

As the bridal party started splitting to either side of the pride and groom, I finally saw Kevin in his dapper three-piece suit.

I’d never seen him looking so sharp. The guy had even shaved his mustache! I hadn’t seen him without that since we were kids!

I wasn’t surprised to see the tears forming behind his eyes. His face was wide with the biggest smile I’d ever seen him make.

Taking a second to acknowledge me as we approach, Kevin gives me a wink and a nod.

The ceremony was lovely, albeit a little long.

I thought I’d be more jealous of his best man, standing beside him, but in all honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any different.  It felt right, standing to Jess’s side.

My little legs did start to feel awfully tired as the ceremony continued. The weight of my dress didn’t help with that.

Then came Kevin and Jess’s first kiss as husband and wife.

It being mostly Kevin’s family and some of Jess’s friends, the church still erupted into cheers and applause as Kevin swooped his wife down and kissed her passionately.

It almost brought a tear to my eye. Usually, weddings don’t stir my emotions at all, but this one really had the old ticker humming.

The entire wedding party then walks back down the aisle with everyone cheering and taking photos. As the crowds formed, I tried my best to get out of everyone's way.

Then came the pictures. One after the other after the other. My poor little face hurt by the end of it!

That wasn’t the worst of it, being a little girl, I felt so small and a little lost.

Jess did try to ensure I was ok, but with all the commotion, I ended up getting bumped and pulled in every which direction.

Eventually, it was all finished and Jess and Kevin went off with the photographers to take more personal ones.

That left me kinda at a loose end. I was left with the rest of the guests standing out front of the church.

As all the grown-ups start talking and chatting away, I felt lonely for the first time. I’d hadn’t really been alone as Emily before.

“Oi,” Yasmin groans, calling me towards her. “Can you make yourself useful and lead the guests to the venue behind the church?”

I didn’t like her tone, but I didn’t mind.

I did my best to shout and scream as loud as possible to get everyone's attention. It didn’t work.

“Hello everyone! Please listen!” Kevin's best man shouts, helping me out with a playful wink.

The guests all stop talking and turn their attention to us.

“This little lady is talking!” he yells, gently pushing me forward to talk.

I felt a little bit of anger rise to the surface! This guy stole my rightful role in the wedding!

“Go head little lady…,” he says, giving me a friendly smile.

Just as I open my mouth to tell everyone where to go, Yasmin bellows over me and takes the words right out of my mouth.

What on earth was she doing!? Why did she ask me to do it in the first place?

I give her a dirty look. She huffs in response and turns her back on me.

“Oh…,” Kevin’s best man chuckles, kneeling down in front of me. “I thought that was your job…”

“I know…,” I reply, sticking out my tongue in Yasmin’s direction.

“Nevermind! You did do a smashing job during the ceremony,” He says, laughing at my reaction. “My name is Liam. What's yours.”

“It’s Ste….,” I stop and look away embarrassed. “……Emily.”

“Well Emily..,” He grins. Did you know that you are the talk of the wedding? Everyone is so very curious about you.”

“They are….?” I ask, raising an eyebrow at him

“Sure…,” he replies. “The mysterious flower girl!”

“Oh….yeah,” I answer, looking away. I knew what he was getting at. No one really knew where I’d come from.

“Kevin couldn’t stop gushing how proud he was of you yesterday night,” Liam chuckles. “I think he’s really quite taken with having you around the house.”

“Oh, Kevin…. He’s such a big softy really!” I giggle, not wanting to say anything more

As much as he’s the first person to check on me, I still didn’t like that he's the best man!

“Come on Emily…,” Liam says, getting to his feet. “Kevin asked me to keep an eye on you. Do you wanna walk with me to the dining hall?”

“Ok,” I answer through gritted teeth. “Lead the way.”

Liam holds out his hand for me to grab. I do so reluctantly.

I’m so getting Kevin for this…! He’s asked Liam to do that on purpose….the git!

After a few awkward moments, holding Liam's hand and being treated like a kid, we reach the dining hall and the place looks amazing!

They must have spent a fortune on the decorations and the spread they’ve put out looked absolutely divine!. Is a travesty that I’m down for the awful kids' menu! I’m not really enjoying the endless chicken nuggets!

“Hey Emily,” Liam says, stopping me just at the entrance. “Jess arranged a little surprise for you. They’ve asked me to share it.”

“Oh…should I be worried,” I reply curious, hoping it wasn’t revealing who I really am. “What is it…!?”

“Well,” Liam says, pointing in a direction. “She knew you might get a little lonely as they have their big day. She invited your friend. He’s over there.”

Looking in that direction, I see a young boy wearing a suit, looking a little nervous.

“Is that….?” I say, squinting my eyes. “Justin!” I scream out, running towards him.

Finding it hard to run in my Marie Janes and the weight of the dress flicking in every direction, I stop in front of him so much more excited than I’d ever thought I would be!

“HEY!” I scream, throwing my arms around him and hugging him tightly. “Why are you here!?”

I can feel Justin go all tense and awkwardly squirm around as I hug him.

“I-I….,” he mumbles, finding it hard to get his words out. “I…think you look v-very pretty in you’re d-dress…,”

Letting go of him, I step back and give him a little twirl.

“Thanks!” I say, as my skirt spins around me and gently spins. “I think you look very smart in that suit!”

“My mom made me wear it,” Justin gripes, pulling at his top button. “I wanted to wear shorts!”

Gently taking me by the hand, he looks around the room like a frightened meerkat.

“My mom dropped me off and they told me to wait for you,” he says, looking anxiously around. “I don’t know anyone here. I guess you know everyone, It being your family and all.”

Clutching my hand, I could feel how sweaty his palm is.

“Not really,” I flippantly answer, giving his hand a reassuring tight squeeze. “It’s not really my family, I’m just kinda a friend.”

“What?” Justin asks as I notice he’s blushing.

“Yeah,” I continue, giggling at how uncomfortable the whole situation is making him. “Kevin and Jess aren’t my parents. I’m…kinda….just living with them.”

“Does that mean you're going to go away sometime...!?” Justin asks, looking genuinely upset by that prospect.

Looking into his eyes, I could see the tears forming. I wanted to punch him in the shoulder like a teammate would and tell him to grow up.

Oddly, Something was stopping me.

I guess I’d never really thought about it either. I think I’d be sad to not see him again too!

“Emily…?” Justin questions, gripping my hand tighter. “Please don’t go. If you stay, you can go to our school and be part of the soccer team! Then we can hang out after school!”

The determination in his eyes to persuade me to stay was so very flattering. I can’t remember the last time someone was this desperate for me to be a part of their life.

That’s when I decided to tell Justin the truth. I felt like he deserved to know who I really am. That way he’d understand why I had to go!

“Emily!” He exclaims as I start rushing towards to exit, roughly pulling him in the same direction. “What are you doing!?”

Weaving between grown-ups and endless chairs, we finally make it outside.

My dress was flapping like mad as we both ran to a more secluded area. Eventually, around the corner for the building, facing an open field, I spin around to look Justin in the eyes.

“I w-wanna….t-tell you s-something!” I struggle to say, between long heavy breaths.

Building up the courage to admit the truth, I had no idea how he’d take it! I couldn’t stop thinking about how I’d react if it was me.

Was he even going to believe me!?

Would he believe that this little girl….in this frilly dress…is actually a fully grown man..!?

Staring into each other's eyes, I could see the cogs turning in his mind.

As I go to open my mouth, Justin sticks a single finger out. He places it gently on my bright red lips.

“I-I wanna tell y-you something first,” Justin says, looking nervously down at his feet.

Letting out a long sigh, I felt a little relieved.

“What is it?” I softly ask, bending a little to look at his face.

Justin brings his head up and looks straight at me. I could tell he was worried too. It looked like all the blood in his body had rushed to his cheeks.

“I-I……,” he mutters, struggling to talk with any real confidence.

“Yeah….?” I say, trying to urge the words from his mouth.

“I-I……,” he mutters again, clearly unable to tell me his truth.

I take hold of his hand like I did moments before. Squeezing it tight, I look into his eyes and give him a warm smile.

Blushing like crazy, he gently smiles back, but he says nothing.

Seconds later, he moves a step closer to me and softly takes my other hand into his.

Not sure what was happening, I just keep looking into his eyes with a trusting smile. His palms are even more sweaty than before!

Then, within a fraction of a second, Justin leans towards my face and gently plants a sloppy, first-time kiss on my lips.

Utterly shocked, I freeze on the spot. My heart, beating like mad almost thumping clean out of my chest.

Still holding my hands, he steps back and is terrified to see my shocked reaction.

“D-did….you not like it…!?” He nervously blurts out.

My eyes are wide open, my body still so stiff and rigid. A boy just kissed me!?

“I-I…thought….we are…friends…?” I say very slowly, still trying to process the experience of being kissed by a boy.

“I know!” he exclaims, swiping his hands clean from mine.

Emotionally flapping his hands down to his sides, he bashfully looks away.

“My mom….,” he then says, still looking away. “My mom said if I liked you, I should tell you”

“I don’t know what to say,” I admit to him after a small pause.

I couldn’t think through my emotional storm. This body of mine wasn’t reacting how I’d imagine it should. My brain wasn’t reacting as I felt it should.

It was like the pure cold logic of my brain was battling the happiness of my heart.

“Kiss me again,” I whisper, instantly grabbing his attention. “Kiss me one more time.”

Awkwardly taking hold of my hands again, he leans in.

This time, I lean in too!

As our lips gently touch and he kisses me again. It’s just as clumsy and uncomfortable as before, but It was making me feel good inside.

“WHORE!” is then bellowed across the churchyard, causing us to both to jump back in terror!

Looking across the way, Yasmin is bounding over towards us. Like a stream train in heels, she thunders in our direction.

Before we even get time to react, she’s grabbed Justin by the scruff of the neck and has me by my earlobes.

“You dirty girl!” She growls, forcing us both toward the wedding hall. “I need to show everyone what a little whore you are!”

Kicking and screaming, both me and Justin are dragged into the middle of the room. Frantically trying to break free from her grip, I could hear all the guests gasping at us.

“Whos boy is this!?” Yasmin booms out, causing any idle chatter to stop and all the attention to be focused on us.

A circle forms around the three of us, as Yasmin pushes us both out in front of her.

We both stumble, but manage to stay on our feet!

Looking around, I could see all the judgemental faces and the worried expressions of the guests staring at us.

“This little whore!” Yasmin yells, pointing at me. “Was just trying to take advantage of your son. Come out and take him before she poisons him too!”

As I feel the judging eyes fall upon me, I can hear the guests chattering about me.

“It’s not like that!” Justin screams, coming to my defense.

“Oh….is that right boy!” Yasmin sniggers, looking down at him with threatening body language.

“What's going on here!?” I then hear, booming across the room, accompanied by the sound of clicking heels on the stone floor.

Before my eyes, Kevin rushes to stand between Yasmin and Justin.

Moments later, Jess kneels before me.

“Care to explain why you’re threatening these kids at OUR wedding!?” Kevin says with stern confidence.

Jess doesn’t look at Yasmin, she just focuses her attention solely on me.

Her concerned and worried face had me wanting to cry out in fear of this nasty woman. What has she got against me!?

“This dirty little thing….,” Yasmin gripes, looking over at me. “Was taking advantage of this boy! Kissing at their age. Disgusting! ”

Stopping to look around at the lack of parents showing up to claim him, Yasmin laughs.

“Who is this boy anyways!?” she questions at the top of her voice. “Is he even invited to this wedding or did Emily sneak him in?”

“Are you ok…?” Jess softly asks me, ignoring the commotion behind her.

Speechless, I just nod.

“Is this true what Yasmin is saying?” Jess asks, looking at me with concern. “Did you take advantage?”

“No,” I say shaking my head from side to side in desperation.

Leaning in towards Jess, I feel a single tear roll down my cheek.

“He said he likes me,” I whisper. “He kissed me, but I wasn’t sure how to react. So we kissed again.”

“Sorry….?” Jess questions, very confused. “So he took advantage of you?”

“No,” I say, louder and more confident. “I wanted to kiss him!”

Behind us, Yasmin was continuing to shout and complain.

Jess on the other hand was just looking deep into my eyes with a shocked expression.

“Y-you wanted to…,” Jess replies, stopping to wipe a tear from my cheek. “You really wanted to kiss him?”

Bashfully nodding, another tear rolls down my face.

“Right then, if no one will claim this boy!” Yasmin commands, pushing past Kevin with ease and grabbing Justin. “Time for you to go!”

“Just one second!” Jess screams, standing up and marching towards Yasmin with bridal fury.

“Jessica,” Yasmin replies quieter. “I think it’s best if this boy goes. We don’t want any more underage moms around here!”

“How dare you!” Jess spits, pushing Yasmin away from Justin. “This boy happens to be our Emily’s best friend. He happens to have been invited by ME!”

As Justin moves back from Yasmin, he looks so very scared.

“Hey Justin,” Kevin says, grabbing him up into his arms. “Let's go get you a Pepsi.”

Watching Kevin escort Justin away, I wanted to follow behind but felt terrified to move.

“So I’m the bad guy know…!” Yasmin complains, throwing a hand up in frustration. “I’m just trying to save you embarrassment at your wedding, Jessica!”

“They are kids!” Jess growls, standing tall in front of Yasmin but still coming up shorter. “The only embarrassment here is YOU!”

“Is that right….,” Yasmin replies, leaning a hand on her hip. “Well….. at least my family would turn up to my wedding…unlike yours Jessica!”

“What did you say!” Jess angrily replies, holding back the tears. “Leave right NOW!”

“Fine,” Yasmin hisses, turning to walk towards the exit.

As she starts to stamp off, she looks down at me and grits her teeth.

“You two whores are meant to be together!” he says spitefully, turning to face Jess. “Maybe you can punch her in the stomach Jessica. That way you can be infertile together!”

As guests around break out into gossiping chatter, Jess rushes over to me as quickly as her heels would allow.

As she grabs me tight and brings me close, I could feel her body shaking.

“Are you ok!?” she asks, on the verge of tears.

“Y-yeah,” I answer, now sobbing uncontrollably

Not being able to stop crying, me and Jess hug for what feels like an eternity. Even though I’d never been so terrified and useless feeling in my life, Jess’s warm embrace made me feel safe and secure.

Eventually, we both start to calm down.

“Jess…,” I say, looking up at her ruined makeup, but comforting smile. “You invited Justin here for me? Why….?”

With one large sniff and a wipe of her eyes, Jess grins.

“I thought that would make you happy,” she replies, brushing hair from her eyes.

“You did that for me?” I say, shocked. “Even after those nasty things I said?”

“That wasn’t going to stop me wanting for you to be happy Emily,” Jess quickly answers.

“Did you know he liked me then..?” I question, wondering if she knew.

“No sweety,” she answers. “You just always seem so happy when you are together.”

“Did you do that to make me consider staying a girl?” I whisper, thinking she’d done it to manipulate me.

“Emily,” Jess replies, gently touching my face. “I only did it, because I wanted to make you happy.

Throwing her arms out, we embrace for a second time.

“So…..do you like him too….?” Jess whispers into my ear as we cuddle.

“I…think so,” I whisper in return.

Hugging me tighter, Jess giggles.

“We should probably go check on him.” She whispers again, through her laughter. “He’s probably worried about you.”

“Oh yeah,” I quickly reply, realizing I’m actually worried about him too.

Getting to our feet, Jess brushes down her wedding dress and takes my hand.

Catching up with Kevin and Justin at the bar, we sat down and all took a quiet moment to process what had just happened.

Justin seems super worried to even just look at me.

Thirty minutes passed and several guests of the wedding would come to check if we were ok. Many complimented Jess on her actions. It Seemed Yasmin had been pissing a lot of people off.

From what Alex said, I gather that Yasmin was extremely jealous of Jess.

Doesn’t surprise me to hear that the woman is sad and lonely. She’s got a lot of hate in those veins!

The drama soon passes, and the normal laughter and joy soon reappears.

Having to all take a seat at the wedding tables, Jess had sat me and the kid's table next to Justin. He still wasn’t talking to me, but I knew I had the rest of the night to get him speaking to me again.

I think I was maybe meant to be at the head table. After what happened, I am glad I wasn’t

As the speeches start happening and I’m feeling a little left out, I start thinking about my life and everything that’s happened in the last week.

I couldn’t get Justin's worried face, for me potentially leaving, out of my head. I couldn’t stop thinking about how great my relationship is with Jess and how’d I’d miss it.

My brain is burning out with all these new thoughts and feelings. Am I worried I’m going to lose everything I’ve gained!

Am I more worried about that, than getting my manhood back!?

“Emily?” Justin says softly, placing his hand on my bare knee. “I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you earlier. I’m just not that brave!”

Pleased he’d finally spoken to me again, I give him the widest smile.

“Yes, you are!” I cheerfully reply. “You were brave enough to admit how you feel about me!”

“Do….you…like me back?” He asks, leaning in desperate for my answer.

Still, my brain and my heart fight for what the correct reply should be!

I couldn’t answer him! What do I say? DO I tell him the truth? Do I leave and transform back without telling him? Do I stay this way?

Almost scared by my lack of response, he looks away disappointed. My heart sank as he slumped in his chair.

That’s when subconsciously, I grab hold of my knife and tap my glass, making it ring out.

As the entire room looks over to me, I continue tapping my glass as if I want to stand up and give a speech.

“Emily…?” Justin asks confused, as I stand up in front of everyone.

“Hiya…..,” I say as loud as possible for all to hear. “I just wanted to say a few words.”

I look over at Kevin and Jess at the head table. Kevin is urging me on and Jess is grinning from ear to ear.

“So, a lot of you don’t know who I am,” I start saying, knowing that the attention is on me. “I’ve been living with the wonderful couple now for over a week. I’m from a broken household and they’ve taken me in with all their heart! They’ve even given me the honor of giving the lovely bride away. I’ve never felt more a part of a family than I do right now.”

I stop and give both Jess and Kevin a big smile.

“I have a question for you Kevin and Jess,” I tell them as they both look at me confused. “Please don’t let this end! I want to stay part of your family. I’ve never been happier! Don’t send me away!

Chatter fills the room as I stand alone.

“Will you guys……..adopt me?” I manage to ask over the gossiping noise.

Silence then falls from the rest of the wedding party. All eyes zoom to the head table as they wonder what the answer will be.

Everyone was tense and curious for Jess and Kevin's answer. The tension was killing me! Would they accept me as their daughter?

Looking down at Jess, Kevin smiles and stands beside her. Then, Helping Jess to her feet, he gives her a nod.

“Emily,” Kevin says with joy in his voice. “On behalf of my stunning wife, we couldn’t be more thrilled that you want us as parents! Of course, we will!”

Rapturous applause and loud cheering echo and bounce off the solid walls of the room.

Kevin winks at me as they both sit back down. I can’t stop smiling and neither could Jess.

“Hey,” Justin says, nudging me as I sit down. “Does this mean you are staying?”

“I…..guess it does,” I answer, giving him a smile and reaching towards him with my hand. “It also must mean…..that I like you….too,”

“No way!” Justin replies, going bright red.

He grabs my hand and holds it tight. It didn’t want him to let go of it!

“Erm,” I nervously mutter, thinking about what my decision means. “So… school….please look after me on my first day!”

“Don’t worry Emily,” Justin answers, giving me a wide grin. “I can’t wait for the girls at school to see how good you are with a soccer ball. You’re going to love it!”

“You know what,” I answer, leaning towards him wanting another kiss. “I think I am going to love this!”

The End