Becoming A High School Girl - Chapter 36

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We arrived at the restaurant, and the chauffeur opened the door for us. We were going to enjoy every second of this night. We walked in and were taken to our table. There were a few other couples from Central High there. The waiter came up and couldn't have been nicer. He was an older man, and he played the game perfectly, treating us like we were celebrities. His name was Charles, and he was very sweet.

The only problem occurred due to a younger waiter. He was serving the tables next to us, and he kept staring at Laura and me. He stood so we could see him, and he shook his head slowly as if he was feeling sorry for us. He looked like he was in college and was good-looking, although not as good-looking as he thought he was.

We watched him as he approached. "I'm so sorry that you two lovely young ladies don't have dates tonight. It's such a shame!"

"Excuse me? What are you talking about?" asked Laura in a sweet innocent tone.

"Hi, I'm Larry, and well, I just hate to see two such gorgeous young women be without dates on a night like this." He then winked at us and gave us his best sexy smile.

We looked at each other and tried not to laugh. "We're not without dates," replied Laura.

"Oh, I'm sorry, did your dates get delayed?" he replied. He looked confused.

Laura looked at me. "He's a bit slow," she explained in a low voice. She then reached over and pulled me close, and we kissed slowly and sensually. We stopped and looked up at him and smiled sweetly at him.

He stood there with a trout look on his face. You know the look, eyes bulging and mouth open. He didn't say a word and just backed away.

"You two are just awful!" admonished Cat. We all started laughing.

"Oh, he had it coming," I laughed.

"He probably wants you two even more now," added Kristen.

"Ugh, please!" Laura grimaced.

Fortunately, the rest of the customers missed our little display. I didn't mind confusing Larry, but I didn't want to make a scene that might ruin the night.

Larry didn't bother us the rest of the night. Because of that, we won our bet with Alex and Matt. They'd bet that he would give us his phone number before we left. We won a dance with each of them, which we would have gotten anyway, but it was nice to be right.

We drove through downtown on the way to the Prom. This gave us a chance to show off as we went through downtown. The chauffeur drove slowly so we could wave to passersby. The prom was being held in the Civic Center, the same place where I was in the fashion show.

The limo pulled up to the front entrance, and we were let out. The chauffeur gave us his beeper number and told us to call when it was time to leave. We all looked at each other and smiled. "Okay, everyone, let's go make an entrance they won't ever forget," stated Kristen.

We walked in as a couple. Laura and I got a few dirty looks, but no one dared say anything. We also got some rather lustful looks from some of the guys. It's strange how some guys have such a thing about two girls in love. Laura said that she thinks they find it sexy, and they imagine they can be the guy who "changes" us so we'll like men.

The theme was 'Hollywood.' They had two spotlights pointed up into the sky. We walked in on a red carpet, and there were teachers posing as paparazzi there to take our photos. They'd done a great job in decorating. On one wall was a takeoff of the Hollywood sign. This one spelled out Central High and our graduation year. All around the other walls were movie posters and life-sized cutouts of movie stars. Above the stage was a movie marquee with our class year in lights. Once inside, we all stopped and soaked in the atmosphere.

"Laura, the prom committee did a great job!" exclaimed Tracey. We all agreed and congratulated her.

We walked around and checked out each other. I saw Caroline and Paul. They were with a group from the school paper. Caroline looked fantastic in her deep purple gown. I also had to admit that Paul looked very sharp in his tux. I wondered for a second what might have been. But when I looked over at Laura, I shook those thoughts out of my mind. She was so stunning tonight.

I really wanted to see Denise and her date. I looked around and saw her hair. After all, she was the only girl in our class with white hair. Denise was wearing a lovely strapless black leather dress, and she looked really great in it. Her date was wearing a similar dress, only hers was shorter, and she was wearing knee-high leather high heel boots, while Denise was in heels. I was glad that Denise was staying true to her beliefs and not conforming to please everyone else.

Ms. B came up to us and commented on how lovely we all looked. She said that she'd like a photo with us. She also had a shot taken with the Fab Four. Yes, Lisa did show up. She was wearing a red gown and looked wonderful. Ms. B and the four of us posed for a photo together. I could see how proud she was of us.

Of course, I had my photo taken with Laura. We also had one taken that included Cat, Kristen, Tracey, and Caroline.

The rest of the night was filled with dancing and celebration. The band was really good. I'd improved somewhat as a dancer, thanks to Laura and Cat's lessons. I danced the whole night. I saved most of the slow dances for Laura, but for the rest of the dances, I was fair game. I collected my bet and danced with Alex and Matt. I also danced with Paul, Mike, and several other guys. I also danced with Cat, Kristen, and Rachael.

We even got some of the faculty out on the dance floor. Ms. B joined Cat, Laura, and me for one dance. I also had a slow dance with Mr. Kline.

As expected, Alex and Kristen were elected Prom King and Queen. They deserved it, and they looked great in their solo dance.

I was also relieved to see that the Rev was nowhere in sight. The night was too special for some lunatic to ruin.

I lost all track of time and was disappointed when they announced the last dance. I wanted the night to go on forever! Laura led me out to the dance floor and held me close as the music played. I didn't want it to end, our bodies were so close, and we were so much in love.

We hung around talking before we left. Everyone had a great time, and people were thanking Laura as they left.

"Erika, did you sit out any dances tonight?" asked Kristen.

"I don't think so," I replied with a huge smile on my face.

"Well, if you danced the whole night in those shoes, then you really have become a girl," remarked Tracey with a smile.

Everyone just stared at her for a second then we all started laughing. Tracey wasn't exactly known for her sense of humor. I also knew that she had finally accepted me. Up to that point, I'd always sensed a little uneasiness from her when we were together. I never felt that again.

We got into the limo and headed back to Kristen's house. This would allow us to change before the party. The guys didn't mind staying in their tuxedos; all they had to do was loosen their ties. Besides, they all thought they looked so sexy and macho when they did that. I had to admit that I have a real soft spot for a guy in a tux.

We didn't dress totally down as we shifted to more casual party dresses. I started into the bathroom to change.

"Hey, Erika, you can change out here with the rest of us; no one minds; we're all girls in here," said Kristen.

I looked around the room and saw that everyone was in agreement. That simple act made the night perfect. I had to hold back crying.

"Thank you," I said. "You have no idea how important this moment is."

For most of the year, I hadn't really minded changing separately, as I didn't want to make other people uncomfortable. But since I'd started hormones, it had bothered me a bit. They all came over and gave me a big group hug.

We drove over to the Alex's party in our separate cars. The party at Alex's was much more low-key and relaxing. It gave us a chance to sit, unwind and talk about the night. Everyone agreed that it was a great evening and that we'd remember it for the rest of our lives.

I went into the house to use the bathroom. I was walking back to the barn when Alex's mom came up to me in their kitchen and asked me to pass on her congratulations to Sam and Mom on their engagement. She also told me that I could count on their support if the Rev came to town. I thanked her.

"I'm not too worried as I have seen how the town has responded to his threats," I answered.

"Well, we talked about it at our church, and we voted to oppose him if he does come to town. The scholarship program has helped create a community that is very tolerant. It's not perfect, but we've all grown due to the program."

"The program seems to have made a huge impact on the community. Does everyone in your church feel this way?"

"To be totally honest? No, they don't, but a majority is against this so-called 'reverend'!"

I smiled back. "I appreciate your honesty."

"I don't want to keep you from all your friends; I just wanted to let you know that you have a lot of people on your side."

Her comments made me feel very good. I'd have preferred that she didn't talk about it that night, but she meant well. I hoped that the Rev would sense how little support he'd get here and stay away.

I returned to the barn and sat down next to Laura. She put her arm around me and pulled me close to her side. Tonight had been a huge event for her. She'd really made a statement about her life, and, for the most part, she was well received. Being TS, I have other issues to worry about besides my sexuality. I knew that as I was accepted more as a woman than as TS, then my sexuality would be a bigger issue.

We hung around for a couple of hours. No one really wanted to leave, but eventually, every good thing comes to an end. Matt said that he'd give Cat a ride home, so Laura and I took off together. We drove slowly back to my house.

Once in the driveway, we began to kiss. It started off as a goodnight kiss, but it soon got much more serious. We were soon locked in passion. It felt so good being in her arms. Neither of us wanted to stop, but we knew that it had to end.

"I love you, and I'm so happy that we had this night together," smiled Laura.

"I love you too. I still can't believe that we kissed in the restaurant!"

We both starting laughing. "I've wanted to do something like that my whole life," she replied.

We kissed again, and I got out and grabbed my bag. My prom dress was still over at Kristen's. Laura said she'd come by later on, and we could go get them. I looked at my watch and saw that it was 3:00 AM.

"Do me a favor and call me when you get home?" I asked.

"Sure thing."

She waited until I was inside, and then she left. I went into the kitchen to wait for her call. I was too keyed up to go to sleep immediately anyway. I heard someone coming down the stairs and was slightly surprised to see Mom.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," I apologized.

"No problem, I'm happy to see that you're home. So, how was it?" she asked.

"Oh, Mom, it was wonderful! We had such a great time. I can't wait to tell you all about it," I exclaimed.

"Let's do it; later on, I'm going back upstairs."

"I'll be right up; I'm waiting for Laura to call telling me she's home."

"Good night, dear." She hugged me again and headed back upstairs.

I said good night and waited for Laura's call. Thankfully, she called a few minutes later and said that she was in and that she loved me. I went up to my room and went to bed. It had been a wonderful evening, and I drifted off into a deep, restful sleep.

I slept in until almost noon. Actually, I woke up a few times but decided that sleep was a better option than getting up. I finally got out of bed and crawled into the shower. I had no idea that having fun could be so exhausting.

After showering, I checked myself out in the mirror. I really liked my new hair color and decided that I'd leave it this way for now. I also examined my growing breasts. Yes, I was a little fixated with them, but it was pretty cool seeing them grow.

I dressed casually, and after my bra, pads, and panties, I put on a green sleeveless t-shirt, my denim overalls, and my sandals. I put on a touch of makeup and went downstairs.

Mom and Sam were out back on the deck. It was sunny and nice outside. I grabbed a glass of OJ and joined them.

"It's alive!" said Sam, in his best horror movie voice.

"Oh, like you're Mr. Early Bird," I replied.

"I'm usually up before lunch," he said laughing, "I guess you had a great time."

"Good afternoon, honey," said Mom.

"Okay, I may have slept in a little late, but it was worth it." I sat down on one of the chairs. "It was awesome!"

I went on to describe the whole evening. I even told them about Larry, the waiter. Sam found that very funny; Mom just shook her head.

"Sounds like something I would have done when I was your age," she remarked.

We talked for a while about the prom. Mom then excused herself from working on a paper for her college class. Sam asked me if I wanted to go down to his old apartment and help him pick up a few more things. I agreed, and we took off.

"So, school is almost over," he said as we drove to the other side of town.

"It's gone by really fast, considering everything that's happened," I replied.

I noticed that we weren't taking the normal way to his place. "Is this the scenic route?" I asked.

"I have a little side trip to make; I didn't think you'd mind."

We drove a few more miles until we reached the State Police barracks. Sam told me to follow him, and we walked inside. A trooper was waiting for us and took us outback.

"Well, there she is," he said, pointing to a green, two-door sports car. "She's in great shape, and I kinda hate to part with her, but with the baby on the way, it's very impractical."

"What do you think, Erika?" he asked.

I was stunned at first. "You mean for me?" I asked.

"Well, it's not a gift. You're buying it, but this is a great deal, and if it turns out to be a lemon, I'll sue him," said Sam grinning.

"You sue me, and you'd better not ever get caught speeding again," replied the trooper with an equally cheesy grin. Then they both started laughing. Cop humor!

I got in the car, and it felt really nice. He was right; it was in great shape. The trooper told me I could drive it around a little to see how it felt. Sam got in next to me, and we took off. It also rode very smoothly, so we drove for several miles before heading back.

"So, what do you think?" asked Sam.

"It's really nice, but it's a little above my limit."

"Well, I think we can cover that; think of it as a graduation present."

"Does Mom know about this?" I asked.

He smiled. "Yes, she does, and she said it's up to you."

I thought about it and decided that it had everything I wanted and then some. It even had a CD player! It would be nice to have my own car, and this was far nicer than what I'd been expecting for my first car.

"If you think it's a good deal, then I think we should get it. I really like her. Thank you so much." That's right, I considered the car to be female. It was too cute to be a male!

"Great, let's head back to the barracks and tell him. By the way, you're welcome."

Sam told him that we'd take it and that he'd call later in the week to arrange the payment and to work out the paperwork.

I couldn't wait to tell Mom and my friends. Mom was pleased that at least I'd have a nice safe car.

I called up Laura around three, and she had just gotten up. She was excited about me getting a car, but she was still happy to drive me around.

"I'll be over in an hour. I can't believe that I slept this late!" she explained.

We went over to Kristen's to pick up our dresses.

"Has Cat picked hers up yet?" I asked as we walked up to her room.

"Yes, she and Matt came by an hour ago. They're a great couple," added Kristen.

I looked at my dress and held it in front of me. I closed my eyes and thought about last night. "Earth to Erika," interrupted Laura.

"Oh, sorry. I was thinking about last night. It seems like it was all a wonderful dream."

"It was real," said Kristen. She sat down on her bed and watched as we packed up our dresses. "I just want to tell you how proud I am of you two. You're both so brave and honest about being open and true about yourselves."

"Thanks, Kristen. Your sticking with me as my friend has helped more than you'll ever know," thanked Laura.

"Kristen, I also want to thank you for being my friend. You've done so much for me this year." I added.

"It's been my pleasure. I've known a few of the contestants over the years, but you're the first that I really consider a friend." Kristen replied.

It was nice to know that her friendship was genuine.

Laura and I headed over to Spencer's. I skipped the pie and just had the cappuccino. Laura had to use the bathroom, and while I was waiting for her, I saw today's paper on the table in front of me. I picked up the editorial section and started to read. I was hoping that the Rev was old news. But then I saw his latest attack. There was a letter from him stating that he'd be holding a rally to support Jason, during which he'd provide evidence that proved Jason's innocence. The rally would be held this coming weekend in the city park downtown.

When Laura returned, I showed her the article and asked to borrow her cell phone. I quickly dialed my number, and after three rings, I got Sam.

"Did you see today's paper?" I asked frantically.

"No, it's still on the kitchen table; what's wrong?" he asked.

I told him to go to the editorial page. I waited while he found the page.

"Okay, honey, I see it. I'll call Marlene and let her know. Don't worry about it. There's nothing that you can do right now anyway."

"I know. I'll be home soon," I replied.

Laura had me sit down and relax before we left. I was so angry.

"Why is this man so intent on interfering with my life? I know he says that he's only interested in freeing Jason, but only an idiot would miss the real point of his actions," I fumed. I was so furious.

"Hey, you aren't in this alone. If he hates you, you can imagine what he thinks of me or this coffeehouse for that matter," she commented.

"Thanks. I know that I have many people on my side, but this is so personal. I can't help but be angry." I tossed the paper on the table so hard that it knocked over my cup. It hit the floor and shattered into several pieces.

The sound of the cup hitting the floor drew a lot of attention our way. One thing about the regular crowd at Spencer's was that they knew that it was more than just a coffeehouse; it was a refuge. So when someone had an irrational display of emotion, people were interested in helping.

"Is everything okay, girls?" asked a large muscular man.

I was about to say yes, but Laura wasn't about to let me lie. "No, it isn't! Some over-righteous asshole is harassing my girlfriend!" she exclaimed. And I thought I was the angry one!

Laura explained to him what was going on and showed him the paper. He introduced himself as Ben, and he seemed very concerned.

"I've been following this. Do you have anyone to organize your side?" asked Ben.

"Yes, her name is Marlene Hamilton," I replied.

He seemed impressed, and he let out a low whistle. "Whoa! This must be serious for Marlene to get involved."

"You know her?" asked Laura

"Only by reputation. She's a good person to have on your side, kid," he remarked.

"Please call me Erika. And this is my girlfriend, Laura." I didn't even mind him calling me kid.

Laura smiled when I called her my girlfriend.

"Pleased to meet both of you. Would you do me a favor? The next time you talk to Marlene, would you give her my number? I'm with the LGBT center on campus, and we'd love to help." He handed me a card.

"I will, thanks," I answered. I then stood up, and we hugged.

I felt a bit better, and Laura drove me home.

"At least he waited until the prom was over," I said, letting out a small laugh.

"He is making a huge mistake coming here," Laura stated, almost as if it was a threat.

"I feel better knowing you're on my side."

Laura couldn't stay for dinner, so we kissed and agreed to talk later in the evening.

"It's me!" I said as I came in. I walked into the kitchen and sat down with Mom and Sam.

"How are you doing?" asked Mom.

"Good. I let out a little rage, and some poor coffee cup paid the price, but I feel better."

"I talked to Marlene - she'll be filing papers for a demonstration the same day as the Rev. He hasn't filed his papers yet with City Hall. Marlene said that they'll hold their rally with or without him. Since he played his hand first, any cancellation on his behalf will mean that he has lost. What little credibility he has will be gone."

I nodded. "I need to call Marlene." I showed Sam the card that Ben gave me and explained how he wanted to get involved.

"Well, she is on her way here, so we'll have to wait until she calls us. You can always e-mail her the info," suggested Sam.

Sam grilled dinner, but no one had much of an appetite. Marlene called a little after nine, and we talked for a few minutes. She told me that she had called most of the contacts she'd made during her last trip, and most were very supportive of a counter rally to the Rev. I gave her Ben's number, and she said she'd call him in the morning. She warned me to expect more actions directed towards me, the school, and my friends.

"Whatever you do, don't lose your temper and retaliate; that's what they want you to do. I'll be filing a restraining order to keep him and his minions away from you. I don't know if it will be approved, but it's worth a try. He's already been ordered to stay away from the school. This may get rough, but we'll get through this."

I agreed not to do anything stupid. There was nothing I could do right now except wait and hope that our side would win.

I tried to get into the post-prom mood in school Monday, but I was too distracted by the thought of the Rev holding a rally against me in less than a week. I tried not to let it show. I was back to walking that tightrope of wanting to show everyone how strong I was and, at the same time, desiring help and comfort. What was also in my mind was that I'd failed twice in finding the right balance. Okay, maybe 'failed' was too harsh a term, but I was worried that I might really go over the edge the next time.

I knew I had a strong support group to get me through this. Mom and Sam were great. Laura and Cat were always there for me, along with many other students at Central. Of course, I could depend on Ms. B, Mrs. Lee, and Coach Chambers. Jenny told me that I could call her anytime, and I had Marlene the Great running my official defense. Add to that Mrs. Lincoln, the college, and many residents of Golden Hill, and I should have felt very confident. But being just seventeen, I still had many worries. I also didn't want the very people supporting me to be hurt.

Still, I think I did an Oscar-worthy performance Monday in school. I joined all the post-prom conversations and acted like nothing abnormal was going on in my life, just like any other senior at Central.

I was called up to Mrs. Lee's office during the third period. I arrived at the same time as Ms. B and Coach Chambers.

"Good Morning, Erika," greeted Ms. B.

I nodded. Coach put her hand on my shoulder and smiled. My emotions were running a bit high, and it was hard to talk without getting choked up. We then entered Mrs. Lee's office.

"Hello, Erika; I wanted to talk to you about the latest developments with the upcoming protest; please have a seat. I was just notified by Mr. Warren that the Reverend's group has filed the necessary paperwork for their rally. They claim the purpose is to protest a legal decision, but we all know the real reason," stated Mrs. Lee.

"Yes, Mrs. Lee."

"While the main effort of this group is directed at you, it's also an attack on all our contestants, this school, and our community. We plan to stand together in support. While officially, the school cannot do anything, individual students and staff will be allowed to participate in the counter-rally being held by Ms. Hamilton. I also want you to know that I personally will be there to support you," reaffirmed Mrs. Lee.

"Erika, the scholarship committee can and will support you. We've prepared plans for such an event and are quite ready to defend you and the program," added Ms. B.

"I'll be at the rally with you too," smiled Coach.

"Thank you, all!" I was feeling very emotional and found it hard to speak. I was discovering that the hormones were loosening my emotions.

"I'll be speaking to all the contestants today and to the entire student body this afternoon on the PA. I'll inform the other contestants that we will support them and ask them to report any problems. I'll also address the entire student body to remind them about school district policy on demonstrations. I will not allow this group or ANY group to disrupt or bother any student on campus," said Mrs. Lee in a very forceful tone.

"I appreciate you telling me this in advance."

"If you have any questions or problems, please come see me immediately," stated Mrs. Lee.

I went back to class and tried to act like everything was okay.

At lunch, Laura asked me how I was doing. I told her about my meeting with Mrs. Lee. Laura told me that the counter-rally was going to be huge, as she was telling everyone she knew about it. Cat and Kristen confirmed this fact. Granted, it was a holiday weekend, and many people would be out of town, but I appreciated their support in putting the word out.

That afternoon Mrs. Lee made her announcement concerning school rules and outside groups. It made me feel better knowing that the Rev's group wouldn't be tolerated on campus.

I rode home with Cat and Laura. I was pleased to see everything was normal at home. Mom's car was in the driveway. It was a school night for her, and she was getting ready for class. I said goodbye to Cat and kissed Laura goodbye, and walked into the house.