One boy's Journey - Chapter 1

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Author - Brianna Demonet

An emotional story written by Brianna Demonet about a young man who was attacked and assaulted by four young lads. They called him a faggot, queer, sissy, or girly boy. The boy sustained punches to his left lung, three broken ribs, a dislocated left knee, a concussion, and damage to his genitalia as a result.

Well, it finally happened. I ended up in the hospital on the last day of my freshman year of high school. I was attacked and assaulted while I was about to exit the school.

There were four of them. They gave me a swirly (flushing my head first in the toilet). Then they kicked me in my crotch, face, legs, and ribs. The whole time calling me faggot, queer, sissy, a girly boy, and a cocksucker.

My face wasn't as bad because I covered it tightly. My arms were bruised badly as well. I was so scared, I thought they were going to kill me, but they only stopped when I went limp.

The janitor, Mr. Milford, found me in a bloody pool on the floor. A retired Army medic and police officer. He was a kind, quiet man. He called 911 and the office.

He took pictures of the scene. He treated my cuts and told me help was on the way. He asked me who did it and why. I told him everything and repeated it to the officer who arrived. Mr. Milford held my bagged hands and rode with me to the hospital.

The school called my mom, and she met me in the emergency room. The doctors told my mother they had to operate. I had a punch in my left lung and three broken ribs. My left knee was dislocated and needed to be set, and I had a concussion.

The doctor also said my genitalia were damaged badly. I heard my mother crying as she signed the consent for treatment form. A nurse put a needle in my IV, and everything went black.

When I woke up, my mother was there with my aunt Vanessa. Aunt Vanessa wasn't a blood relative, but she was my mom's oldest friend. She lived outside of Las Vegas. Living in rural Ohio like we did and Vanessa showing up, I knew things were bad. I knew the other shoe was about to drop, and now I was really scared.

My heart monitor started beeping faster. Mom placed her hand on my forehead, and Vanessa held my hand. Mom.... V, V, Vanessa, what happened? How long have I been here? My mom said, sweetie, you've been out for six days! As I became more aware of my surroundings, Why all the bandages and tubes? I had two tubes in my crotch and one in each arm.

Vanessa said I'd get the doctor. Honey, you were severely beaten. If Mr. Milford hadn't found you when he did, you may have died. You have been treated for many different trauma injuries to your torso and genitalia. Your nose was also broken.

Ryan, glad to see you up, said the doctor. My name is Doctor Yung. She was a beautiful Asian woman. She was very classy and graceful, which I noticed immediately. I was your trauma surgeon. How are you feeling? I was hit by four trucks at the same time. How's your pain level from 1 to 10? A 7 doctor. Okay, let's have a look at you. Ladies, may I have a few minutes? Mom sends in the nurse, please.

A male nurse walked and looked similar to one of the guys that beat me. I freaked out! No, no, not him, please, god, no! Not him! I started shaking, desperate to escape. The nurse left quickly. Ryan, Ryan it is okay it's only the nurse, said Dr Yung. That nurse looks like one of the guys who attacked me! I was sweating and breathing heavily.

I'm sorry, young man, but a male has to be present when a female examines him. Please, doctor, send in a female nurse and let my mom and Vanessa back.

Okay, only if it keeps you calm. My mom and Vanessa are let back in. Dr. Yung said ladies, Ryan, insist you be in here; for his sake, I'm allowing it; just please stay out of the way. Of course, doctor.

A female nurse brought me in, and they carefully removed my wraps, inspecting my body. The nurse adds fresh pads under my bandages and wraps them. Thank you, nurse, says Dr. Yung.

Doctor, will I be okay? Your healing is quite good, Ryan. We need to talk about the damage you suffered. As in permanent damage? My mom asked. Yes, it's irreparable, I'm afraid. Ryan is 13 years old, I see. Yes, Doctor. Ryan's balls never dropped.

With all the blows he suffered at the time, his balls dropped involuntarily, and they were crushed beyond repair. I'm very sorry, Ryan, said Dr. Yung. We have an in-house counselor if you need to talk. I highly recommend it. This is a very traumatic event. There's no shame in talking to a specialist.

Thanks, Doctor; it was all I could think to say. I began to cry like a baby. Mom and Vanessa hugged me as I wailed over and over. They hugged me tightly. It helped. After 30 minutes of tears, I ran out of tears.

Mom, Auntie, what am I going to do? Everything will work out, sweetie. Your mom's right, honey. Everything will be alright, said Aunt Vanessa. How is everything going to be alright? I asked.

Moments later, a police detective and counselor enter my room. My name is Detective Smith, and this is our victim's counselor, Mrs. Martin. We'd like to ask you a few questions. Are you up for this, Ryan? asked Mrs. Martin. Yes, I can.

We can come back if you like. No, please stay. Ask away, I said. My mom and Vanessa stay quiet. Do you remember what happened? I asked the detective. Yes. Tell us from the beginning.

I was walking through the hall towards the exit. I was pulled into the bathroom by two of the four guys that always bullied me. Once in the bathroom, there were two more waiting. They grabbed me, lifted me up, and shoved my head into a toilet, almost drowning me.

I fought and struggled to get free. I scratched at least one of them. I was all out of a fight after the toilet, and he started kicking me, calling me a faggot, queer, fagboy, sissy boy, and cocksucker. They ran off when I stopped moving.

Do you know their names? Yes, detective. Billy Bond, Paul Jeffries, and the other two were brothers Tommy and Rick Newhouse. Did you say anything to them before you were attacked? No sir. Did you look at them funny—or anything like that at all? No sir. Are you sure? Yes sir.

What are you getting, Detective? Asked mom? Nothing, ma'am, just following procedures. Detective, look at my boy! He's 5'4" tall and 125 lbs. He's not a fighter or a bully. He's clearly a victim.

My apologies, ladies; I have to ask to get the full picture. Would you like to talk to me? I asked Mrs. Martin. Not right now; I'm getting very tired. Fair enough, said Mrs. Martin.

Here's our card. If you want to talk or remember any additional details, please call us. We will say, Aunt Vanessa. Ryan You can call me anytime, 24/7, to talk, said Mrs. Martin. Thank you, I said weakly.

As I began to fall asleep, I said, I'm sorry, Mom. I drift off to sleep. My sleep is deep. I wake up in a cold sweat, alarms blaring everywhere. Mom and Vanessa are being shown out of the room. Momm!!! I cry out, Auntie Veee! Nurses are trying to push me down. grasping my limbs.

Wait, God, damn it! I cried. Then the night shift doctor arrives. Get your fucking hands off, bitch! I yelled. Doctor, he is flat-lined! Said the nurse. No, he didn't; his leads fell off. Stop touching me. I cried. Let go of my Nephew, said Aunt V. We have to restrain him, or he'll hurt himself. No, nurse, you need to read the chart!

You're not a doctor! You can't tell me what to do! On the contrary, Nurse! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist! Why didn't you say so? Why didn't you read the chart? or check the leads before trying to zap my nephew with a defibrillator? My apologies, doctor. Said the nurse.

Thank you, nurse. Said Aunt V. The attending doctor said nothing while the nurse was in the room. The doctor looked at the nurse and nodded his head at her to leave.

Auntie V's taking the lead on things in my room now. If I wasn't in such pain and thinking of my loss at the moment, I'd smile.

Doctor, has the nursing staff been briefed on Ryan's condition and trauma? I asked Aunt Vanessa. I will ensure they are! Dr? Stockton! Dr Vanessa Stockton! Said aunt V.

Vanessa Should we call Mrs. Martin? My mom asked. I would say,  Vanessa, that this incident needs to be reported. I don't think it's necessary to report the nurse or the doctor. No, doctor, that's your call. I want to report the traumatic event my nephew just experienced. Understood Dr. Stockton. Thank you, doctor. Jones, Dr. Jones. Thank you, Doctor Jones.

Vee, what did you do? What I did was call them out on a mistake and let them handle it. They will be giving Ryan first-class care from now on. Mrs. Martin showed up within the hour.

I talked for almost two straight hours. Mrs. Martin recorded everything. His attention to detail was incredible. His report earlier and the new details from his episode are all lined up. Now, all we have to do is nail these bastards.

With your permission, ladies, I'd like to share this information and incident with Detective Smith. If you think it gets these bastards behind bars, do it. We're doing everything we can. This will help, I can promise. Thank you, Mrs. Martin, said my mom.

The first thing the next morning, Detective Smith walked in with Mrs. Martin. Good morning, everyone. Are you up for a chat today? Sure Detective. I'd like to introduce the assistant district attorney, Summers.

He'll be prosecuting your case. Mom butts in; does this mean you arrested those thugs? Yes, ma'am, we have. We need to show you some pictures for a positive ID. Are you up to that young man? I asked Detective Smith. Yes sir.

Mom and Vanessa never left my side. I was shown four photo arrays with six pictures each. I ID'd all four. Excellent young man, thank you. Now what happens? Said Vanessa. Now we can charge them! Are they in custody? Yes, as of last night, after Mrs. Martin called me. Are you alright? I asked the detective. If there's anything my office can do, please call. Said DA Summers.

What are you charging them with? Asked Vanessa. They'll be charged with 1st-degree assault, mutilation, attempted murder, and a hate crime. Hate crime makes it a federal case, doesn't it? Asked Vanessa. Yes, it does.

If they try to fight this or try to deal with it, we can still charge them with a hate crime. Deal? I asked my mom. Those animals tried to kill my boy without provocation! Yes, they did, but the boys lawyered up immediately. So we can't talk to them without their lawyer.

The following week was a lot of probing and prodding. They took out all my tubes except my IV and catheter. I was feeling better; my pain level was a four now.

The nurse came in and said the doctor had ordered testosterone therapy. The nurse injected my IV with a low dose of testosterone. I started getting the shakes in my hands and feet. Aunt V saw it. She mentioned it to my mom.

When Doctor Yung came to check on me, Aunt V and Mom pulled Dr. Yung into the hall.

The hallway talk.

Dr. Yung, thank you for checking, Ryan, said Mom. How's he doing? I asked Dr. Yung. He's getting stronger, said Mom. That's good to hear, said Dr. Yung. Doctor, I want to talk to you about the hormone replacement they're treating him with. Said Vanessa. Everything alright? I asked the doctor.

The testosterone they gave him gives him the shakes. Really? The doctor checked the dosage on the chart. It's a minimal dose. Doctor Yung, I'm a doctor too. I am not trying to question the treatment; I understand it's a standard treatment.

However, Ryan is having reactions to it. If that's true, we'll need to find an alternative soon. The boy hasn't hardly started puberty yet. My point exactly, Dr. Yung. There's only one other kind of treatment we can give him. What does that mean, ladies? I asked Brenda (mom).

Dr. Yung said if Ryan is having a reaction to the testosterone replacement with a bare minimal dose, he won't be able to go through puberty. If he doesn't go through puberty, he may face serious health risks in the future.

What does that mean? It means Ryan will have to transition to a girl. Said Vanessa. My boy won't become a man. I'm afraid not, Brenda. I'll order a test to confirm it. Said Doctor Yung. Thank you, doctor. Said Vanessa.

My mom was crying when they walked into my room. What's wrong? I asked. Am I dying? No, Ryan, you are not dying, said Aunt V. They need to run some tests. For what? What's wrong, Aunt V? Please, someone tell me what the hell is going on!

Mom holds my hand. Okay, here it is. It starts with Aunt Vanessa. You're having an allergic reaction to the testosterone supplement. Because your body can't produce hormones, you need another source to stay healthy and go through puberty.

Another medication I asked for? Of sorts, Ryan. If the test is positive for an allergic reaction to testosterone, you will have to be given female hormones. My jaw dropped. Will the treatment be temporary? I asked. No, Ryan, you will have to take them for the rest of your life.

Wait a second, you mean I'll become a girl? My heartbeat speeds up, and I get dizzy. I'm getting dizzy. I passed out asleep. When I came to the nurse, she was taking my blood. Is that for my test? I ask. Yes, young man. We should have the results tomorrow. Just rest, Ryan. Thank you, nurse.

It was after 3 a.m. when I woke up in a cold sweat. My aunt Vanessa is sleeping in the chair. You're alright, sweetie. Another night terror, Aunt V. Want to talk? I tell her about the dream of returning to school in a dress and both boys and girls beating me.

The girls were trying to cut off my breasts. Ryan, you've got nothing to worry about. Your mom and I will keep you safe. I promise you this: I know exactly how you feel, sweetie. How could you? I'll explain it another time. But Aunt V? Ryan, Have I ever lied to you? No! That's right, and I'm not about to start; just trust me.

Aunt V calmed me down, and back to sleep I went. The next morning came and went. No word on the test, finally! Aunt V came in with the doctor. Their faces were cold and blank.

Well? I asked. Ryan, You're allergic to testosterone. The good news is that you have zero adverse effects from estrogen supplements. So there's no alternative to testosterone? Not that you can take it safely,

Ryan. I'm sorry, young man. Dr. Yung was very kind. If you want reconstructive surgery, we can do it this week and have you home in a week to 10 days. Can you give me a vagina? Yes, sweetheart, said Aunt V. Dr. Yung is also a plastic surgeon. If you want surgery, we need to do it soon, before you're fully healed. Said Aunt V.

Won't I look funny without breasts? HRT will help you grow breasts, round your body, and soften your skin and face. You won't grow a beard. You won't lose your hair like your deadbeat dad. My mom said,.

What about school? Your mom and I talked about that, honey. We'd like to consider staying with me. Las Vegas? Yes, Ryan, said Mom. It's a fresh start. You can start school as a girl.

No one has to know. Are you coming, Mom? No sweetie I can't. I have the salon, and in the current economy, I can't sell it. But I will see you on FaceTime, and I'll fly out when I can.

I need some time to process all this. Of course, said Dr. Yung. Let me know soon, please. I asked Mom and Aunt V to give me some time. WOW! Thinking to myself. Talk about the other shoe-dropping. First I lost my balls; now it looks like I am losing my mom too.

It's been mom and me since I was 3 years old. I loved my dad; he was great, from what I remembered of him. Like Bruce Springsteen said, he went for a ride, and he never came back. To this day, I haven't seen him.

Now all this, and then moving in with Aunt V? I love Aunt V, but without Mom, it seems scary, especially if I change to being a girl. My next issue is friends, bullies, and school. I'm a good student, but not anything else sports-wise. I loved my gymnastics and Dance classes. I took ballet and tap dance. I loved Gregory Hines.

Don't get me wrong. Aunt V has been like a second mother, more than the rest of our family. When I was little, I spent my spring breaks and the 4th of July with her. When I was little, we used to play with my mother and daughter sometimes when I was there. She loved it.

She never told me why she could have children; I never really asked. Truth be told, I loved the mother-daughter game. But when I turned 11, it just didn't seem right to me.

Aunt V even went as far as to make my bedroom in her condo a girl's room. Aunt V and my mom had my ears pierced when we visited for Christmas when I was 4.

I tried to think of the advantages of my situation. Less likely, boys would bully me, but girls can be super mean. Girls get to wear a lot more clothes, shoes, and makeup.

Girls can get their ears, belly button, and nose pierced. Boys pay for most everything on dates. I wasn't sure about the dating thing with boys, especially not after this incident.

I reconciled that I really don't have a choice if I want to live a normal life. I paged the nurse and asked her to send in Mom and Aunt V.

Well, honey, what did you decide? I asked my mom. Her tone was soft and caring. Aunt V looked at me with that caring and loving look I loved when we played together years ago.

I want the surgery. One question! Yes? How are we going to pay for it? Don't worry, I'll handle all that Aunt V said.I have one request. If I do this, can I have implants? Implants? Honey, you're 13 and I'm going to be a girl for the rest of my life, and many girls my age have small breasts.

How big? asked Aunt V. Veee! My mom gasped. Ryan's adjustment and blending in will be tough enough. Breasts will make it easier. How big are you thinking, Ryan? I asked Aunt V. B-cups? I asked That's a reasonable request. Okay, done! said Aunt V. Brenda, are you okay with this? Oh, Ryan, my mom sobs. Yes okay. Aunt V has Dr. Yung paged.

I want to do it, Doctor Yung. That's a good choice, Ryan. You will be a young woman, but you will lead a normal life as a woman. I love being a woman, Ryan, and you will too. Dr. Yung was smiling in a very kind, caring, almost loving manner.

Doctor? I asked. If your son was injured like I am, would you suggest this? Yes Ryan I would. When your aunt and I are done, no one will be able to tell. Thanks, doctor! You're welcome, Ryan. Ladies, you'll have to leave. The nurses will be preparing him for surgery.

Already asked Mom. Yes, it's either I do it now or he can wait 6 weeks. Now, please, doctor. Okay! Mom relented. Dr. Stockton, let's scrub up. I'll follow you, doctor.

Two female nurses prepped, shaved, and gave me an enema. The one nurse said to me, You are one brave young lady. I hope those boys get what's coming to them. I second that, said the second nurse.

Thank you for taking care of me. I said. They both smiled. The first nurse asked, Have you thought of a name yet? Rianna, I said like the singer. Said the second. Close Rianna without the H. I just hope I'll be half as pretty. Rianna, you'll be very pretty with B-cups, that tiny nose, and your emerald green eyes. You'll be a heartbreaker. Thank you, ladies.

They wheeled me into the gurney, and the nurses lifted me into the gurney. Mom kisses my cheek. They tell me they love me. I wave to Mom as I'm rolled down the hallway.

I'm greeted by Doctor Yung and Aunt Vanessa smiling behind surgical masks! The mask was put on me. The needle is injected into my IV. Count back from 100, said the nurse. The last thing I remember was number 85.

When I woke up, I was numb from my waist down. My chest felt tight and was wrapped tightly. My wrists were loosely tied down. I buzzed the nurse. My mom and Aunt V came in. The nurse did a quick exam and told us the doctor would be in soon.

How did things go? Can I see it?. Will I look normal? I was furious with questions. Calm down, Rianna said, Mom. I looked at Mom with a questionable look. Who told you that? I asked. I did say the nurse was smiling sweetly. I barely remember ever mentioning it.

I have your name change request here. Rianna said, Mom. It was filled out by my full name to become Rianna Maria Stevens. I questioned Mom about her last name. Mom, that's your maiden name. Yes sweetie. I thought, as long as I'm getting yours changed, I'd change mine too. I beamed with pride.

This will be a fresh start for both of us. What will Dad say if he ever comes back? I asked. He has been gone for ten years and abandoned us. There is never a single dollar to help us. He has no say. You're my daughter now, and I love you so much. You're my niece now. Rianna said Aunt V. Your mom has named me as your legal guardian while you stay with me. Said Aunt Vanessa.

Week 3 in the hospital.

Three days after surgery, I was allowed to use the bathroom myself, supervised by a female nurse (thank goodness). I never saw another male nurse after the first day.

After my bathroom trip, I walked to the nurse's station and back. It took every bit of energy to get back to my room. The nurse almost had to lift me to get me in bed.

Thank goodness you're so light and slender. She said. I wonder what I weigh now. We can weigh you tomorrow if you want. I'd like that, I said. Before dinner that night, Mom, Aunt V, and Doctor Yung inspected my recovery. Your healing is going very well; you should be able to go home for another 3–4 days.

Tomorrow, young lady, we'll remove your bandages and wraps. You'll be outfitted with a medical bra, and you will need to start dilating. Dilating? I asked. Yes, Rianna. Dilating yourself every day from now on.

You must dilate your new vagina to keep it open and prevent it from closing up on you. Mom and Aunt V walked me around after we had dinner in my room. The nurse loaded me into bed, and I was out.

The next morning, Auntie V and Mom had breakfast with me. Aunt V told me she had to fly back to Las Vegas to take care of things at home and her practice.

Aunt V said she would fly back to escort me to her home next week. As scary as it was for me to be leaving my mom, the thought of a fresh start sounded great. Plus, I had to wait for my new ID and birth certificate.

Dilation was horribly painful and humiliating. The nurse was very patient and instructive. Knowing how clueless I was, she used herself as a model and taught me everything about my new flower, as she called it.

My nipples got rock hard as she went through the anatomy of the "Flower." She quizzed me extensively on my new flower. I have to say my flower was very pretty.

After my dilation was done, I was encouraged to do it gently before bed and after I woke up. They gave me a 5-piece set of dilators. Each one looked more painful than the next. By my fourth day of dilating, I was just getting used to number 2. I was mid-duration when Doctor Yung walked in. I blushed.

There is no need to stop, honey. She said. She let me finish. She called in the nurse. Okay, drop your gown. How's your pain level? Between 3 and 4, Good start on number 3 the day after tomorrow. As painful as it was, I couldn't help but get a bit turned on. My nipples get hard every time, despite the pain.

I did as told, and the doctor examined me and said I'd be ready to go home in the morning. The nurse measured my body in various places and gave the paper to my mom.

My mom said I need to do some shopping, and I'll see you in the morning, honey. Nurse, can we weigh me? I asked. Sure. While we're at it, you need to take a long walk up and down the halls.

108 lbs. Rianna. You are very slender. Do you exercise? I used to do gymnastics and dance. No exercise for two months. Just walking and light swimming—nothing strenuous.

Your nose is healing up well. It looks like my mother's now. It fits you perfectly, Rianna. Thank you, Tina; I blushed. I walked until my legs almost collapsed, about 30 minutes.

I buzzed the nurse, and she helped me in bed. I climbed into bed with just a little help. I dilated on a 3 this time, and it felt like a number 1 the first time. All the pain, I worked it slowly in and out. The pain subsided a bit. I kept going until the pain was about half of what I started with. I wiped it down and went to sleep.

I had just finished dilating when Mom arrived. There were a couple shopping bags and a shoe box. Nurse Tina came in. Are you ready for your worldly debut, Rianna? Tina asked. I will be when I get dressed, I said.

My mom got me a size 2 denim skater dress, matching bra and pants from Victoria's Secret, a pink sleeveless blouse with pink and white Sketchers, and lace-cuffed ankle socks.

Being cleared to leave really lifted my spirits. I was talking on and off with a hospital trauma counselor. Her name was Kim, and she was great. When we went to check out of the hospital, Mom was handed the bill. It was 4,500 dollars. The overall bill was 105,632 dollars. My jaw just dropped. Who paid? Asked mom.

Ms. Steven's, is it? I asked a very well-dressed woman.

My name is Isabella Newhouse. Your boys!! Did this! Yes, ma'am, and I don't condone their actions or behavior. Did you pay this bill? Yes Ma'am. I cannot apologize enough to my boys. I don't want your money; your boys need to pay for what they did to my child. Mom and I started walking away. Ms. Stevens, please? Please join me for a coffee. I really want to talk to you.

Mrs. Newhouse, you should know the school has to press charges even if I don't. I know I'm not here for that. Please, will you and your daughter join me?

What do you say, Rianna? I asked my mom. Let's hear what she has to say. Maybe she can give me my balls back! Ree !!! Sorry mom. It's understandable, said Mrs. Newhouse.

You have 10 minutes, my mom said. We followed her. She was driving an Infinity FX 60. I knew from the car magazines I used to read that it was a $70,000 car. That's worth more than three times our double-wide mobile home.

We pulled in a Starbucks coffee. Mom and Mrs. New House drank the same iced caramel coffee drinks. I had a large frozen mocha with whipped cream.

I can't begin to apologize enough for my boy's behavior. They are no angels, but this was way over the top. Over the top? Seriously? Rianna, please. Rianna, there's nothing I can do to fix this. I know money won't fix this.

But you should know my boys, even though they are under house arrest and suffering. How so? Asked mom. I brought my aunt over from Scotland. They are currently being pettified. What's petticoating? I asked. May I show Rianna? Please.

She opened up her phone, and there were two of the four bullies in baby clothes and diapers. That's not all. I locked them in these. She showed us the chastity cages she ordered from Amazon. My boys will never be trouble again. What about the other two? I asked. First of all, the other two are 18. They also have criminal records; they deserve what they get.

I am asking for a little leniency. If they are charged with a felony, it will ruin them. I said they should have thought about that before. You know you should thank Mr. Milford. If it hadn't been for him, your sons wouldn't be home in diapers. They would be in jail awaiting trial for murder, my mom said.

You're right, but you're a mother. I'm a mother, and I don't want to see my boys in prison for 20 years. You know they called me a faggot, a sissy fag, and a cocksucker when they beat me? Yes, I heard.

Then you should know that if you try to deal with a misdemeanor, they will be federally charged. I'm sorry we can't help you, Mrs. Newhouse. No one can. I can respect your love for your children. But your boys stepped way over the line.

My son lost his balls and his penis. He had a punctured lung, three broken ribs, and a broken nose. My sweet boy is a girl. All because your boys decided he was gay and decided he needed to be beaten. If the shoe was on the other foot, what would you do? You make valid points, Ms. Stevens.

For what it's worth, I'm ashamed and sorry for both of you. Thank you for listening. She left a 10-dollar tip for the coffee. Well, Rianna, what do you think? You don't want to know, Mom. Actually, I do. I'd like to see them neutered. If I can't be a boy, why should they?

Can you imagine those boys as girls, Rianna? They'd crack mirrors; they'd be so ugly! We laughed as we sipped our coffee. Mom, look! I pointed at the note on the table. If you want to talk, please call. Thanks. Isabella Newhouse.

Just as we got up to leave, Mom's cell phone started buzzing. Hello Detective. We are leaving Starbucks and heading home. No, we can't. Rianna's very tired. Yes, that would be fine. See you soon. Detective Smith is stopping by the house; we better go.

Mom just started a pot of coffee when Detective Smith and DA Summers pulled up. I answered the door and opened it before they knocked. Ri..anna? Right? Yes, Detective. Do you remember DA Summers? Yes sir. I'm happy to see you up and about. How are you feeling? Pain is between 2 and 4.

We have some news and a few questions. First off, who pulled you into the bathroom? Billy Bonds and Paul Jeffries. Are you sure? Yes, because the Newhouse boys were already in the bathroom combing their hair at the sinks.

Were the Newhouse brothers waiting for you? No, they turned to look at me first. Were they goaded into kicking and beating you? Yes, a little. Do you remember what was said to them? They were told to man up or get manned up.

Anything else? No. I can tell you it didn't take much to get them to join in. They all bullied me at some point. Mr. Milford actually broke it up once with me and the Newhouse brothers.

What happened? They'd push me around, call me names, and give me swirlies. But up until the incident, they never did more than slap me or give me wedges.

What about Bonds or Jeffries? They always punched me, kicked me, tied me down, and snapped me with wet towels. Did you report it? I didn't have to; Mr. Huber, the gym teacher, caught them. He had them suspended for 3 days.

Mom says, What's this all about, detective? Well, the Bonds and Jeffries boys said the Newhouse tried to pull them off Rianna. What? I said that's bullshit! They may not have started it, but they were fully participating in beating me half to death.

Detective, Mr. Summers There's something you should know. Mrs. Newhouse came to see us. While we checked out of the hospital, we saw that Rianna's bill was paid almost in full, all except her breast implants. She met us at the front desk and took us to Starbucks at the strip mall for a coffee. Can you prove it? Yes, she paid with a card, and she left this. Mom handed him the note.

What exactly did she say? Mom proceeded to tell them about our conversation. Did she confirm paying the hospital bill? Yes. Did you ask her too? Hell no, I don't want b*tches of money. We may not have much, Mr. Summers. But what we have, we earn.

I own a small beauty shop. It's not much, but it's mine. I want those boys to pay for what they did! With life behind bars. Did Mrs Newhouse offer you a dollar amount for a favorable statement? No, she showed me pictures of her boys and an aunt punishing her boys.

She did beg us for a favorable statement. I told her that we couldn't help her and to be careful not to cut a deal for her boys because of a possible hate crime charge. What did she say? She apologized for her son's behavior.

What does all this mean for my son and this case? Well, what she did borders on witness tampering. But she admitted fault. But not for her boys directly. It's a fine line.

Bonds and Jeffries are going away, and with their priors and the physical evidence collected, they plead guilty. They got 25 years each. The Newhouse boys plead innocent. Their lawyer is trying to deal with a misdemeanor assault.

Their lawyer has made a good case. Some of it was confirmed by your detailed account. The Newhouse boys beat my child, mutilating him to the point that he is now a she.

Regardless of any of those so-called details, those boys actively participated in my child's traumatic attack. Please tell me you're not considering a deal.

Those boys are first-time offenders. Said DA Summers. Only because they're one of the richest people in town. Said my mom. I know you are upset, said Mr. Summers. Upset? You've got no clue. None! Mom said

It was just then that I had a PTSD flashback and blacked out. Not sure what happened, but DA Summers had changed his tune when I came too, laying on the floor covered in a cold sweat. My apologies, Ms. Stevens; we'll take another look. Talk to Mr. Milford. I said. We'll be in touch, said Detective Smith.

The next three days, we heard nothing. Mom was busy day and night, trying to catch up at work. Her staff did a great job keeping things afloat. But bills had piled up, and my mother's clients needed attention. I stayed inside, mostly too afraid to even walk the circle in the trailer park.

Mrs. Chandler, the owner of the park, was friends with my mom and one of her best clients. Mrs. Chandler gave me the key to the park's pool. She said I could use it anytime.

I started swimming early every morning before people were up and moving. It was scary walking to the pool. I was relieved. She was there, watching over me.

DA Summers wanted to hold a deposition at his office. While I didn't want to relive it again, I knew I had to. The day before the deposition, Mom was working. I got a call, Auntie V! Hi, sweetheart, how are you? I'm holding up. Are you sleeping? On and off.

Are you still waking up in cold sweats? Yes, every night. Look, honey, the reason I called. I'm sending a friend of mine to help. She should be there soon.

Her name is Cathy Pambini; she's an attorney; you can trust her. She's going to help you for tomorrow. I'll be flying tomorrow; I'll be there for your depo baby girl. Stay strong, sweetie; I'll see you soon.

Ten minutes later, there was a knock on the screen door. I jumped into the hall, trying to hide. Hello! Brenda, Rianna? My name is Cathy, and Vanessa Stockton sent me. I rushed to the door.

There stood a very beautiful woman. Her black wavey hair, emerald green eyes, and perfect eyeliner make her look tattooed. She looked like she was part Asian. She was wearing a smart-looking blazer dress, much like Aunt V wears at work.

Rianna? Yes, Cathy Pambini, your aunt Vanessa sent me. May I come in? Oh, gosh, please, Ms. Pambini. Call me Cathy, please. You can call me Ree. Okay, Ree. Would you like some coffee? I asked. Look, Ree. Truth be told, I'm half Italian; I need something stronger. Do you have Starbucks or something like it? My treat, she smiled brightly. It put me at ease.

Sounds great; let me call Mom. I put on my skater dress and blouse and my sketchers. I navigate us to Starbucks. She wasn't kidding about the coffee she drinks.

A triple shot of espresso in a frozen caramel cappuccino I have one too. Wow, what a rush!. Cathy was really sweet to me. She had a big diamond ring on her left hand.

That's a beautiful ring, I said. Thank you, said Cathy. Is your husband a lawyer? I said yes. He's a partner like I am. She showed me a picture of them. He's handsome, and tall, with blonde hair and blue eyes.

Do you have children? I asked. Not yet, but we are trying. How are you coping, Rianna? You mean since I was almost killed and transformed into a girl? Yeah, yes, she said, hesitating. I'm sorry, Cathy. It's been a rough morning. All good, Ree.

Cathy, You seem very comfortable around a person like me; why is that? Well, you're very sweet and polite for one. And the second reason is that one of my best friends is a trans woman! She's one of the best and bravest people I know.

You remind me of her. You're a people reader, aren't you, Ree? Yes, but not enough to avoid an attack. That's not your fault, Ree. I read all the reports. I can't begin to imagine your horror.

Now you're adjusting to being a girl. You're a brave person. I have to be Cathy; it's not like I have a choice. Do you have any outfits, makeup, shoes, or accessories? No, ma'am, not much. Do you have a dress to wear tomorrow? No Ma'am. Have you ever shopped for makeup? No, Cathy, I haven't.

Mom's been really busy, and the pool at the park has been my only outing. I try to maintain a very low profile. This is all so new to me. Will you allow me to help you, Ree? No offense meant, but I'm not a pet project or a charity? I know you're not.

But I have been around several trans women, all older than you. But their struggles are the same, minus your trauma. Look, it's my treat; humor me.

Maybe together we can find your inner girl and lessen your anxiety a little. Plus, we need to get you some clothes for tomorrow's deposition. Please?

Okay, Cathy, I'm sorry I'm so snarky. All good, Ree! You're carrying a lot right now. Let's try to lighten the load together. Thanks, Cathy.

We finished our drinks and hiked across the parking lot to Ulta Beauty Supply. This place was a supermarket for makeup, and beauty supplies they even had a full-service salon in the back for hair, nails, and waxing. They even had an ear-piercing station.

Cathy had five in each lobe; I kept staring at them. I will get your ears pierced again. Yes, please. I sat down in the stool. How many in each ear, dear? Ask the lady. 4 more in each, please, just like my friends.

Cathy was shocked but said nothing. I looked like my mom; she has three in each ear. 4 more, it is said, Cathy. Kala, the piercer gave 2 large gold studs and then 2 medium. Cathy bought 2" gold hoops for my bottom holes. I loved it. Shall I wax her eyebrows? asked Kala. Yes, please say Cathy. How thin? Asked Kala? Christina Ricci, as high an arch as you can please. The waxing stung something awful, but I stayed quiet.

I would like to see if a stylist is free. Please, Kala, thank you. Rianna I'm Cindy I'll be your stylist today. What are we thinking today? How about a bob with a slight wedge to the front? Asked Cathy. I like it, said Cindy. Any color? How about Ash Red? That sounds great. Any makeup? Yes, she needs an everyday look—something befitting a 13-year-old girl.

I can do that. Do you have a makeup brand in mind? Asked Cindy. MAC said, Cathy. Cathy was a whirlwind of activity. Once under the hairdryer, Cindy came over with a nail cart and gave me a full set of gel nails in French style, just 1/8" over my fingertips.

By the time Cindy was done, I not only looked like a girl, but I finally started feeling like one. Mom called and asked how I was doing. I told her about Cathy. She said she knew, and Aunt V knew too. I told her about my earrings. She loved it. I said I wanted a nose stud like hers. She said the left side, which was small like mine, was okay. I just then noticed Cathy had a stud in her nose on the left.

Cathy paid for everything, including brushes for my makeup. Next was DSW for shoes. She bought me two pairs of 3" heels with a slightly wide heel and one pair spiked. And two pairs of flats, black and pink. The next stop was Kohl's. I thought Cathy went overboard. She bought me a beautiful blazer dress with black and red plaid patterns. One pencil skirt suit in pale pink with slacks to match. 3 bras, two packages of pants, and 3 babydoll nighties. She also bought 3" heeled mules. She said girls wear heels.

I complained it was too much, and there was no way I could pay her back. She said. Her trans friend helped lift her up at a very low point in her life. This was her way to pay it forward.

I thanked Cathy endlessly. We had a light lunch. I mentioned how much I loved her nose. She said you want one; it's on me. We stopped at a tattoo salon, and 20 minutes later, my left nostril had a gold stud.

As we started driving to my mom's salon, Cathy glanced at me. She said. You know, Ree! You're a natural for a teenage girl. Really? Yes, you smoothed your skirt, sat butt first, and swung your legs in, and I noticed a little sway in those hips.

I was watching you, Cathy. You're very graceful in your movements. Thanks Ree. Cathy, I can't thank you enough for today. I finally feel like I can smile. That's great, Ree. I need you to be happy because if you feel happy, you'll be focused on the bigger picture of life.

What do you mean, Cathy? You're a girl now, Ree. Enjoy it; being a girl is much better than being a boy. We get to wear a better variety of clothes, shoes, and jewelry. We can change our looks anytime with makeup and hairstyles. The best is getting men to do what they want with a smile.

I know you lost a lot, Ree, but give things a chance. Let me help you and your mom. You guys will get through this. Now let's show Mom your new look.