The Class Project - Chapter 12 free porn video

The Class Project by Janice Dreamer Chapter 12 "Hi, is Brad Franklin there?" Robyn gripped her phone tightly. She closed her eyes and crossed her fingers. She'd already left three messages on his home phone and two at his fraternity. He just had to be there. "Sorry. He's not available right now. Do you want to leave a message?" Robyn bit her lip uncertainly. God, would he think she was turning into some stalker chick? "Um, yeah. Just tell him Robyn called. He can call me back anytime." She rattled off her new cell phone's number. "Thanks. Bye." Robyn sank weakly down onto a stack of beer cases. She tried to fight the tears welling in her eyes. How could she get Brad to talk to her? It was five days since she'd last seen him. Five very long days. She thought she might go crazy from frustration and worry. Had she screwed up the most amazing relationship - the *only* relationship she'd ever had? She put her head in her hands and gave in to the tears. Donna pushed the storeroom door open a few minutes later. The tiny figure hunched over with her cell phone sitting beside her pulled at her heartstrings. Silently cursing Brad, Donna hurried over to take her friend into her arms. "Shhh," Donna crooned softly. "He's not worth it." Robyn buried her face in Donna's shoulder. "But he was so sweet to me!" Robyn wailed. "No... nobody's ever tre... treated me that nice!" "Awww. Sweetie, you deserve so much better." Donna produced a tissue from somewhere. She lifted Robyn's face and began dabbing at her tear-streaked cheeks. "Bu... but... I don't wa... want better. I want Braaaaad!" Robyn whined between sobs and sniffles. "Shhh. It's going to be all right," Donna said softly, wishing she could believe it herself. The door opened once more and Peeps stood there with arms crossed. "Aw geez!" He looked like he was sucking a lemon. Sometimes he thought he'd go crazy dealing with all these young girls. His Marines never bawled like babies at the drop of a hat. But these kids always had some drama going on - one girl or another always seemed to be weeping over something. And the most frustrating thing was he never seemed to have a clue what they were crying about. In an uncharacteristically soft tone he directed Donna, "Okay get her straightened up and back to work as quick as you can. I don't pay you to run a lonely hearts' club." * * * * * Across town at the Kappa house Bill Hall hung the phone up and turned back to the room full of guys. He signaled to Brad and said, "Dude! That Robyn chick just called for you again. You better call her back soon or I'm gonna hit on her myself. She sounds hot." Another fraternity brother spoke up. "She *is* hot! If she's the same one you brought around here last week. You should have seen her Bill. Teeny tiny but with great big boobs and an ass to die for. She must be something between the sheets too - she screamed like an opera singer." Brad grinned and took a swig of his beer. "You don't know the half of it. She was a virgin when I met her." "Dude!" "No!" "Sweet!" "Yepper I shit you not. She's one hot little birdie." "Then what's the deal, Franklin? How come you're putting her on ice? If I were you I'd be out tapping that action right now." "Cause I'm smarter than you, Jones." Brad grinned cockily and saluted with his beer. "I'm keeping her guessing. She was out when I told her I'd call, so now I'm teaching her a lesson. And she's getting desperate. When I finally call she'll be so relieved she'll do anything I say. She won't make a move without my say so." "Gotta hand it to you Franklin, you know how to manage the ladies. You're the man." Brad took another sip of beer. "Anyway, enough about that. What are we gonna do this year to the Tuskers? We need to come up with something really bad to pay them back for last year." * * * * * Later in the evening Robyn and Donna were both at the bar waiting to pick up orders. Robyn had stopped crying but she was still morose. Donna was worried about her. She needed something to distract her from Brad the snake. "Are we still on for tomorrow, Robyn?" Donna asked. When she learned Robyn didn't have a driver's license she'd thought she was afraid. Donna had volunteered to teach her and offered her car for Robyn to take the test in. "Sure, I guess." Robyn shrugged noncommittally. She hadn't corrected Donna's impression that she was afraid of driving. A license just hadn't been a big priority. Bob had his license but he didn't own a car. Neither did Jim or Scott. The University buses were sufficient for their needs. If they were out after the last bus they just walked - nothing was all that far on campus anyway. But Robyn knew it was a little weird not to have her license so she'd gone along with Donna's suggestion. "I have another idea," Donna said. She'd been trying all evening to cheer Robyn up and finally thought she'd hit on something. "Amy and I have a kick-boxing lesson in the morning. Why don't you come along? We can go to the lesson then hit the DMV afterwards." Amy was a Journalism major who also worked at Peepers. It was Amy who'd loaned Robyn a pair of sneakers on her first day on the job. She was really nice and Robyn was developing a friendship with her almost as close as with Donna. So the prospect of doing something with the two of them outside of work was appealing. Except a kickboxing class just sounded so dumb. "I don't know, Donna. Kickboxing?" Robyn had visions of Jackie Chan movies. "Oh it's fun! You'll see. It's not all martial artsy. It's more like an aerobics class with a little self-defense thrown in. Invite your friend Cathy to come along; you two will be our guests. You'll love it. And if not, well what's one afternoon?" Robyn wavered. She really liked Donna and Amy and knew Cathy would get along with them too. She'd just never been too enthused about exercising. But that had been when she was huge and male. It might be different now. Plus it was a chance to get out of the house and stop brooding about Brad. It was worth a try anyway. "Sure, I'll ask Cathy. It might turn out to be fun." "Great! Bring some loose workout clothes and a towel. We'll grab lunch afterwards and make a day of it." A loud crash came from across the restaurant. Six frat guys had somehow managed to tip over a table. Another girl was their waitress and both Robyn and Donna felt sympathy for her. Fraternity groups were among the worst. They were loud, rowdy, way too randy, and worked a waitress to death and too often stiffed her on the tip. "Hey girlie! Grab a mop and pitch in! I don't pay you to hang around the bar!" Robyn was completely unsurprised when she heard Peeps' bellow from somewhere in the crowded room. She was beginning to feel like his personal whipping girl. She quickly jumped to comply. But Peeps was an equal opportunity ogre; he picked on everybody. "You too, Red! Move it!" Donna rushed after Robyn. * * * * * "Come on, Robyn," Cathy said as she glanced at her watch. "Hurry up or we'll be late." After Cathy picked her up that morning they made a stop at the Wal-Mart so Robyn could buy some workout clothes and a sports bra. They were a little short on time but Robyn was dithering over picking out a pair of shorts and a tank top. "Okay, okay," Robyn replied absently while staring in a mirror. She held up two tanks across her upper body. "This blue really brings out my eyes but the green goes well with my hair and complexion. What do you think?" "God, Robyn! You are *such* a girl! What's the difference? You're only going to exercise in them. Just pick one." Cathy rolled her eyes and sighed dramatically. "But I want to look nice. I *like* looking good," Robyn mock-pouted. "It's all your fault anyway. You taught me that clothes are important. Back in the day *I* would have been happy with jeans and sweats." "Lord, I've created a monster!" Cathy gave Robyn a playful shove toward the front of the store. "They're both great. Take 'em both." As they walked past a display of little duffels Robyn pulled up short. "Oh wait! I need one of these. It'll be perfect to carry everything and I can use it for work too - I hate packing my uniform in a shopping bag." Cathy sighed. She grudgingly waited as Robyn picked through the bags. She was just preparing to mention the time again when Robyn gasped in delight. She looked up with a silly smile on her face. "SpongeBob! How cool!" Robyn said happily as she held up a bright blue bag with the yellow cartoon character emblazoned on it. "This is perfect!" Robyn held the bag over her shoulder and looked at herself in a mirror. She liked how cute it made her look. It was girly and seemed tailor made for the person she was becoming. Cathy watched and marveled at how her friend seemed to be finding her own feminine style. Who'd have thought that big awkward Bob would turn out so cutesy and girlish? "Okay, let's go Cathy, we don't want to be late." "Oh no, we wouldn't want that," Cathy said ironically. * * * * * They arrived at Donna's place with seconds to spare. Donna and Amy were waiting outside by Donna's sporty little Focus hatchback. Cathy parked her car and everyone piled into Donna's. "Donna Miller, Amy Williams, Cathy Anderson." Robyn made brief introductions from the back seat, pointing to each woman in turn. "Amy! Hey, I thought I recognized you. We had a class together last year. How you doing?" Cathy said. Amy was a petite blonde. She was just an inch or two taller than Robyn. She had a cute, open face with a Julia Roberts mouth that seemed just a touch too wide. When that expressive mouth was stretched in a friendly smile it transformed her from cute into beautiful. Her hair was styled in a pixy cut that she usually gelled up into edgy spikes. Where Robyn had almost exaggeratedly lush curves Amy was practically stick thin. She had itty bitty breasts, barely an A cup, and her hips were quite slim. Long shapely legs that she thought of as her best feature were a perfect counterpoint to her boyish figure. Overall she gave the impression of a little lost waif girl. Amy wasn't the sex bomb that Robyn was but her quick wit, friendly open manner, and cute innocent face made her a favorite among the regulars at Peepers. "Pretty good. But I'm not sure I remember you..." Amy said uncertainly. Robyn giggled. "Cathy got a makeover recently. She used to be way more Goth." Amy turned in her seat and looked more closely at Cathy. Recognition slowly dawned on her. "Wow! I remember you now. Who did your makeover? I want her name! You look fantastic!" Cathy blushed at the compliment and shrugged. "Robyn's just teasing me. I lost a little weight and changed my hairstyle. But thanks. I do like my new look a lot." "I like it too, Cathy. It suits you. So you all set for a workout?" "I dunno. Robyn called me yesterday evening and threatened dire consequences if I didn't come along. I never thought of myself as the martial arts type but I'm willing to give it a try. Are you really into this stuff? Sorry, but you don't look like kung fu woman to me." "I love it! I signed up two years ago. Wanted to avoid the 'freshman fifteen' y'know? And it worked." Amy grinned proudly and demonstrated by trying to 'pinch an inch' on her absolutely flat stomach. "It's a really great workout and it's kind of cool to get your aggressions out." "That might be kind of fun. Although I've been feeling incredibly mellow lately. Not so much aggression to get out these days." "It's still fun even if you're feeling mellow. More girls should try it. That's how Donna and me became friends. We were partnered up since we were the only women in the class. A few months later I told her I needed a job to help with expenses and she suggested I try Peepers. Been there ever since." "I feel like the odd girl out," Cathy said with a sideways smile. "I'm the only non-Peepers person here." Donna looked at her in the rear-view mirror. She loved her job and was a big booster of Peepers. If she weren't so happy as a waitress John Peeps would have hired her as a PR agent. She quickly spoke up, "You should apply there, Cathy! You could give Robyn a real challenge for the title of hottest new waitress." Cathy shook her head. "No way! Those uniforms are too much for me. Besides I don't think I'm the Peepers type." "Why not? You're friendly and perky and you're a knockout. Mr. Peeps always has openings for girls like you." Cathy looked surprised. "Me? Perky? God, Donna!" She laughed a little at herself. "If you only knew how so *not* perky I used to be. Just ask Amy and Robyn." Both girls were grinning and nodding in agreement. "She was the original moody Goth Grrrl," Amy said. "But Donna's right, Cathy," Robyn chimed in. "You *are* perky now. Happier. You even said yourself how you're more mellow now." She teasingly elbowed Cathy in the ribs. "It must be love! Ladies our girl here is so in loooooove!" "Cool!" "Who is he?" Cathy couldn't conceal her happy smile even if she'd wanted to. Her voice oozed with pride as she said, "His name is Greg and he's going to be a lawyer. We've been friends since freshman year. He's always understood me better than any other guy I know. Now... well things are just perfect. He's just the best ever!" "He sounds wonderful, Cathy," Donna said with a proud smile of her own. "I'm engaged. My Ben's going to own his own business some day. We've got it all planned out. Mr. Peeps has been coaching me about running a business. He's convinced me to take some accounting classes so I can keep the books and run the office side of things. Right after we get married." She had a dreamy tone of certainty common to all hopeful young women in love. "Robyn's all ga-ga over a man too," Amy said wistfully. "You guys are so lucky. Now I'm the one who's the odd girl out." Robyn's face froze and both Donna and Cathy winced at Amy's unwitting reference to Brad. Donna caught Amy's eye and shook her head signaling her to drop the sore subject. Aloud she said, "Amy don't feel that way! You're so cute and nice. Any guy would be lucky to be with you." "She's right Amy!" Cathy interjected. She, too, wanted to divert the topic from Robyn and Brad. "I know lots of guys who'd kill for a date with someone as sweet as you." "Thanks guys," Amy said half-heartedly. "But most men lose interest when they see how lacking I am up top. The boobie fairy was pretty stingy with me." Robyn pulled her thoughts away from her own worries when she heard the sad tone in Amy's voice. "That's not true, Amy. Not all guys are breast men. I know some are into legs and others butts and others belly buttons..." "So says Peepers' current cleavage goddess," Amy said ruefully. She smiled wryly to soften the bitterness. "I've envied girls like you all my life. But you're way too sweet to hate." She winked. "Well... maybe I do hate your breasts, a little." Everyone laughed at the joke. "Besides," Donna said as the laughter died down. "We all know guys are really only interested in our personalities. They don't care a thing about looks." "Yeah, right!" The giggling broke out anew. * * * * * "Ha!!" Robyn screamed out and aimed a kick at the pad Amy was holding up. It felt satisfying to see her friend back up a step at the force of the blow. Her arms were a little sore from the battering she'd gotten while she held the target for Amy. For a small woman Amy sure packed a wallop. "Good! You are doing velly well, Lobyn," Mr. Chun, their instructor, said from the sidelines where he was watching. The hour session was nearly over and Robyn was beginning to wish they had more time. She'd been leery at first but had to admit that Donna and Amy had been right - this was fun! Bob had never been one for physical activity but she was feeling invigorated. The exercise gave her a warm glow and it did feel good to release some of her pent-up aggression. They'd started with some simple stretches then Mr. Chun had demonstrated the basic moves. The rest of the session had been spent practicing the basics. The four girls were paired according to size, which meant Amy and Robyn, as the two smallest, were sparring partners. Chun called a halt to the session and instructed them to run through a series of cool down stretches. "You must slowly let your muscles lelax to avoid getting a clamp," he said in his strong Korean accent. "Wow, that was so cool!" Cathy said as they headed for the locker room. All four had a light sheen of sweat on their skin. "Well you guys were right. I feel better than I have in days," Robyn commented. "You should sign up for regular classes with us," Amy said. "Then we could keep the same partners. I gotta say, it was great not having to spar with the big red giant for a change. Donna you're a great friend but it's awfully discouraging getting knocked around by somebody a head taller than me all the time." "Oh yeah, Amy? I've still got the bruises from our last session together. You may be little but you're feisty!" Donna teased. "But she's right, you guys should sign up. Admit it, didn't you have fun?" Cathy and Robyn exchanged glances. They both grinned and nodded their heads. "What do you think, Robyn? I'm in if you are." "Sure, Cathy. That was the best stress relief I've ever had." They all took quick showers and dressed in their street clothes once more. Robyn and Cathy talked to Mr. Chun and signed up before they left. * * * * * "I can *not* believe I failed the test!" Robyn muttered for the third time as they walked out of the DMV. Since she'd already passed the exam as Bob, Robyn hadn't bothered to even look at the sample questions booklet. "How could I be so stupid?" "It's okay, Robyn," Donna said. "Lots of people don't pass the written test the first time around. You'll pass it next time." Robyn didn't say anything. She was grateful that Donna was trying to make her feel better but she was very worried. Had becoming female somehow messed with her intelligence, she wondered. Bob had always harbored the conviction that he was smarter than any woman. He'd looked at feminine frivolity and emotional sentimentalism as signs of weaker intellects. Had the demon made her dumber when it made her female? She certainly acted like a stereotypical ditsy bimbo around Brad. And she was so much more emotional ? she cried so easily, and got giggly and silly with equal ease. Hell, she was tickled pink over a ridiculous SpongeBob bag. Bob had passed the written exam on the first try, she thought. But Bob had studied the booklet and committed all the sample questions to memory. Then why hadn't she remembered the answers? Maybe because it had been seven years since she'd taken the test. Or maybe the demon had made her stupid. She hung back with Cathy as the others walked on toward the car. "Cathy, wait a sec. I need to ask you something." "Okay." Cathy turned to Robyn and waited. Robyn paused, considering how best to put her question without making Cathy think she was paranoid. "Do you think the demon could have messed with my mind?" Cathy looked at her soberly. "Is that what you think?" "I... I don't know. I think it might have decreased my intelligence. I shouldn't have failed that test." "Robyn..." Cathy said as seriously as she could. "I don't think you're any less intelligent." "Then why am I behaving so strangely? So emotional all the time? I act like a ditz. And now I flunk a stupid drivers' test." "Well you do express your emotions more, I'll grant you that. But," Cathy reached out and gently touched her on the forearm. "Robyn, I don't want you to take this the wrong way, but you walked around like you had a stick up your butt when you were Bob. You were so cynical and superior. Like you were afraid of expressing *any* emotion. So what if you're kind of silly sometimes - you're having fun, and believe me, it's a major improvement over Bob. I've spent the last three years studying anthropology and I've learned there's one thing for certain: men and women are different. Some of it is cultural but some of it is physiological. You've got an entirely different brain chemistry now. And that's influencing your behavior. It's possible that the demon put your hormonal balance to the extreme right of the bell curve for females. Probable even, since you were imagining a fantasy woman with a powerful libido. But the way you've handled yourself... hell Robyn if anything I'd say you're *more* intelligent now. At least you're finally learning how to act around people." "Really?" Robyn couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Well what about that test? How come I flunked it? I memorized those questions by heart back when I got my license the first time." "Recite the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet. I know you studied it in high school, everybody had to." "Um. Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou?" Robyn blinked. "I don't remember any more." "That's cause it wasn't important to you. The same as those test questions once you got your license. But I bet you can remember how to write a program because that *is* important to you." Robyn thought about it. She mentally reviewed some key concepts in several different programming languages. She not only knew their exact usage and syntax, but also could cite specific examples of the strengths and weaknesses of each one. "I see your point, Cathy. I guess I just sort of freaked. I was starting to think I was going through some kind of personality death or something. I mean... I couldn't imagine Bob buying a SpongeBob bag like I just did." "We all go through changes in our personalities, Robyn. It happens all the time. Sometimes it's an improvement, sometimes not. But trust me -- your changes are definitely an improvement." Cathy rolled her eyes teasingly and added, "SpongeBob gym bag and all." "Really? You think?" Robyn asked, feeling a little reassured. "Hell Robyn, you're a former male nerd trying to adapt to being a pretty girl. Stop trying to overanalyze everything you think or do. If you're a bit goofy sometimes, just go with it. It's better than being a buzz kill all the time. I've watched you since the change. When you just act naturally -- following your feelings -- you have a glow, an aura of charisma. But when you're channeling Bob - acting according to your male sense of guilt -- you turn all stiff and dull. You need to choose; there's no reason a young girl has to behave according to a male's standards. Release the guilt and let yourself be the person you've become." Robyn smiled. "Okay, thanks Cathy. When you put it like that it explains a lot. I feel better now. I'll stop worrying and just release my inner ditz." She tossed her hair in a wicked parody of a bubbly cheerleader. "Let's go get some lunch, I'm starving!" * * * * * "Oh cool! Look at these boots!" Robyn exclaimed. She held up a pair of red cowgirl boots with silver buckles and detailing. "These are so wild, what do you guys think?" "They're kind of cute," Donna said. "They might look pretty cool on you." "They're great!" Amy gushed. "They're perfect for you, Robyn." "Try them on," Cathy suggested. Robyn checked; the boots were her size. They were in great shape - they almost looked brand new. She kicked off her sneakers and pulled the boots on. "I like 'em," Robyn said. They had a bit more than a two-inch heel but felt really comfortable. She walked over to a mirror and posed her feet to see how they looked. "I really like 'em." Robyn haggled for a bit with the flea market vendor and finally settled on $35. She passed over the money and asked for a bag for her sneakers saying she'd wear the boots. "Those would cost over a hundred new, Robyn. Don't you just love this place?" Donna said. The East street flea market was one of her favorite places to shop. She'd never had a lot growing up but she could usually find something trendy for a fraction of the retail price. "Hey guys! Check out these ankle bracelets," Amy said from over by a jeweler's stand. All four girls went over and started picking over the items on display. Robyn watched the other three and noted that everyone was behaving pretty much as Bob would have called ditzes. She thought of what Cathy had told her and realized that they were all having fun. There was no one-upmanship; no one was trying to act too cool; everyone was simply enjoying each other's company and the fun of shopping. She knew she'd overreacted. The shock of failing the driving test had awakened some old male feelings. In consolation she realized her bouts of male guilt were coming less frequently and were easier to get over with each passing day. Robyn loosened up, giving into her impulses to just be herself ? her new self. She had no male ego to protect - she was one of the girls now. By the end of the day Robyn had bought several pieces of costume jewelry and a fuzzy cowgirl hat with a black and white cow pattern to complement her new boots. It was a hat Bob would have died before wearing but she thought she looked cute in it. She'd had great fun and grown much closer to her friends. And, she realized with a little shock, she hadn't wasted a minute of the happy day on thoughts of Brad. * * * * * Robyn carried a tray full of drinks across the crowded room. Someone stepped into her path blocking the way. She stopped abruptly, quickly rebalancing her load to prevent an accident. She raised her eyes preparing to tell whomever it was to get a move on. Brad stood before her with arms crossed grinning down at her. The loud crash of breaking glass reverberated through the restaurant causing a momentary silence as all conversation stopped and heads turned to see what happened. The silence only lasted a moment before the traditional applause and catcalls broke out. Normally the patrons would quickly return to their meals or drinks after razzing the hapless waitress but this time it looked like some drama was playing out and necks craned to get a better look at the little tableau. Robyn stood stupidly, blushing to her scalp in embarrassment. She bit her lip and fluttered her hands uncertainly. All eyes were on her but all she saw was Brad. "Hey there, Sweets." "Brad... I... I..." He stepped closer, glass crunching beneath his feet. He lightly placed his hands on her shoulders and brushed his lips across her forehead. "Hey girlie!" Peeps' booming call shattered the moment. "That mess ain't gonna clean itself up. Move! I don't pay you to stand around." Robyn's head snapped around in the direction of Peeps' voice. "Yessir," she said weakly. She glanced up at Brad and shrugged an apology as she slowed crouched down and started picking up the larger shards of glass. "I see you're busy," Brad said facetiously. "We'll talk later." He walked away to join his friends and the buzz of conversation filled the room once more. Robyn moved in a daze and wasn't accomplishing much in the way of cleaning. Two other waitresses arrived with mop and broom and began helping. One of them, a girl named Becky, smiled at her and said, "Me and Sue can get this, Robyn. There's beer all over your legs. Why don't you go get the bar to re-do your order and get cleaned up a little?" Robyn looked at them gratefully. "You sure?" Becky nodded and grinned. Sue smiled also and said, "Yep. Go on girl." She reached out and laid a finger on Robyn's forehead where Brad had kissed her and teasingly added, "But watch out - you're straight up tripping. That man's got your head twisted for real." Robyn blushed. Man, she was so obvious! "Tell me about it," she said with a self-deprecating smile. "God! I'm such an idiot." "Been there," Becky said. "Got the tee shirt," Sue added. "All of us. Now go," Becky finished with an understanding smile. Robyn stood a little shakily and hurried over to the bar. When she started to ask for a repeat of the spilled drink order the bartender said he was already on it. She said she'd be right back and set out for the back room to clean up. Peeps stood in her path. His expression was a mixture of exasperation and something that almost looked like compassion. "Here." He held out a bar towel. "Dry yourself off." Robyn looked up at him uncertainly. He wasn't yelling - that alone threw her off. "I... I'm sorry." Peeps shrugged. His voice was less critical than normal. If she didn't know better she'd have thought he sounded almost human as he said, "Shit happens. Now I trust there won't be a repeat of that tender scene with one of my customers during working hours. Will there?" "No sir!" "Of course there won't. We understand each other." Peeps nodded as if to himself. He held the towel out a little further toward her. "Now go on and get cleaned up." Robyn took the towel. "Thanks," she said shyly. She started to walk around him. "Oh, I almost forgot," Peeps said. His normal gruff tone was back. "Those drinks and glassware are coming out of your check, girlie. I don't pay you to smash up the place." Robyn's smile was broad even though a bit rueful. "Yessir." * * * * * Robyn was wiping down one of the tables when Brad came up beside her. She froze, feeling completely off balance. She'd somehow managed to make it through the night without further mishap. But she'd spent the entire shift darting glances in Brad's direction. It worried her that he seemed so nonchalant. His eyes were always focused on his friends or the television or one of the other girls but never her. She'd grown used to the looks she received from guys, even began to expect them. Brad's seeming indifference pricked at her blossoming female ego. But more than that, it hurt her feelings deeply. Maybe he didn't feel the same for her that she did for him. "When do you get off? I'll give you a ride home." Robyn sucked in a ragged breath. She forced herself not to look at him. She was going to be strong. "Brad, I left you a bunch of messages. Why didn't you call?" Oh damn, she sounded like some possessive harpy. "I was busy. It *is* the end of the semester you know. Finals start soon." He laid a hand on the small of her back, just above the swell of her bottom. "Besides, last time I called it was after midnight and you were... out." He made the last word an accusation. Robyn quickly turned to him, a stricken look on her face. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to... I knew I should have called. It's just... everything happened all at once. I got this job... and I had to start right away... and I didn't expect to start so soon and..." She realized she was babbling and forced herself to stop. "I'm sorry." She bit her lip and looked up at him silently pleading him to believe her. "So you were working here that night?" Robyn opened her mouth ready to spew out another long disjointed explanation then bit her lip and simply nodded. "Well that explains everything Sweets. I should have known you weren't playing games with me." "Oh no! I'd never..." Brad cut her off with a finger placed on her lips. "Good. Because I can't stand girls who play those games. 'Hard to get.' 'Why didn't you call?' 'Where were you?' Remember that Sweets. My girl has to be more mature than that. And if not then I'm history. Understand?" Robyn nodded solemnly. She felt a great flood of relief. He was still calling her 'his girl'. In her relief it didn't occur to her that he had spent the past week playing those same games on her. He broke the serious mood with one of his perfect sexy grins. "I've missed you. And you're looking straight up hot in that uniform." She blushed and grinned at his compliment. Brad had a completely different reaction to her new job than Jim had. Shyly, she asked, "You don't mind me working here?" Brad's smile was broad. "Hell no. I think it's about the perfect job for you." It'll keep her out of trouble, he thought, and serving drinks won't overtax her little bubble brain. Plus he'd have a lot of evenings free to pursue other 'opportunities' while she was working. He winked at her and added, "You looked so sexy out there tonight. I'm kind of proud having the hottest Peepers girl ever belong to me. It's way cool." Robyn wanted to press herself against him and just stay there forever. But Peeps chose that moment to clear his throat loudly from behind the bar. "Table seven needs clearing, girlie. I don't pay you to stand around talking." "Yessir!" Robyn sang out. She said to Brad, "We close at two. I'm off about fifteen minutes after." "I'll wait for you in my car." Robyn practically floated over to clear the vacant table. * * * * * Jim was covered in sweat even though it was cold outside. He was just returning from his morning five mile run. It was still early enough that he moved carefully so as not to wake his roommates. But then he noticed Robyn working in the kitchen. That was a bit strange. She hadn't been up this early since she started at Peepers. Jim wanted a shower but he noted the sound of running water coming from the bathroom. Scott must be up too. He leaned in the kitchen doorway and said, "Hey Robyn. You're up early." She was startled and jumped with a little squeal of surprise, dropping a spatula on the stove. "Geez Jim! I thought you were out for your run." Her tone almost seemed like an accusation to Jim. He made a face and pulled the front of his shirt away from his body where it was pasted to his skin. "Sweating like a pig here. Are you getting a clue yet, Robyn? I just got back. Duh." "Oh." She turned her head and made a production of busying herself with cooking. She was obviously nervous about something but Jim couldn't figure out why. She was dressed in an oversized man's tee shirt, plaid flannel boxers and a pair of thick woolen socks that had fit Bob but slouched around her ankles. She was unbearably cute and Jim had to force himself not to stare. He noted that she had set the table for two. "What'cha cooking?" "Um... bacon and eggs, I guess." With a little hop Robyn boosted herself onto the counter, pulled her feet up under her and stood up; her head was an inch or two below the ceiling. She walked along the counter a couple steps and opened a cabinet. She was now at eye level with the top shelf. She took out a pair of coffee cups and a bag of gourmet coffee and sat back down on the counter. "I wish you wouldn't do that," Jim said plaintively. Robyn flashed an impish smile. She was pleased with her solution to being vertically challenged in the kitchen. "What? My feet are clean. I just put on fresh socks this morning." She held her legs out and wiggled her feet to demonstrate. "I don't care about that. I just don't want you to fall and hurt yourself," he said, feeling a little defensive. She hopped off the counter and walked closer. She started to hug him but drew back as she realized how sweaty he was and settled on a light stroke along his upper arm. With a tender smile she said, "You're so sweet to worry about me, Jim. But I'm a big girl..." Realizing how incongruous that description was, she glanced down at her petite body and grinned. "Well, maybe not literally. Anyway, what I mean is, I'm being careful. But it's a pain to drag a chair over every time I need to reach something. And it's amazing how much more flexible I am now and I seem to have a better sense of balance too. So you don't have to worry." Jim felt his mouth go dry as she stroked his arm. Even though he would have enjoyed a hug from her he felt relieved that she held back - he wouldn't have to worry about her discovering his reaction to her nearness. He smiled a little sheepishly and chose his words carefully ? the last thing he wanted was to offend her. "I know, Robyn. But I can't help it. This is all so new. I know you're smart and capable and you can take care of yourself but I worry that you're still learning about your body. Please don't think I'm saying you're incompetent because you're a girl now. I just don't want you to overestimate your new abilities and end up hurting yourself." Robyn felt tears stinging her eyes. She didn't deserve such a good friend. She hugged Jim close, not caring about the sweat. "Jim..." her voice caught and she swallowed to regain control. She fisted him in the ribs to lighten the mood. "You're the sweetest guy I know. You worry enough for both of us. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. I promise I'll be careful, okay?" She hesitated a moment then continued, "You're the brother I never had... I... I love you, dude." She blinked and felt the tears roll down her cheeks. Jim stiffened when she wrapped her arms around him. As her words hit home he groaned mentally. She loved him... like a brother. Her tears pulled at his own emotions, adding to the frustration of the deadly 'just a friend' declaration. He gingerly stroked her back and prayed she didn't notice how aroused he was. "I love you too, Robyn." She sniffled and released her hold around Jim's waist to wipe her eyes with the heels of both hands. She smiled weakly up at him. "God, I'm such a baby." As the emotion drained she let out a little self-deprecating laugh. "Sorry, it just hits me sometimes. Cathy says it's the estrogen's fault." "Don't apologize, Robyn," Jim said softly. "You've been under incredible stress. I can't imagine how you handle it so well. I'd be a basket case." "Sometimes I am. But it's really not that bad. Especially with friends like you to help. There's lots of pluses too ? like I feel much more free to express myself now. And so much closer to my friends." She smiled up at him warmly. Jim fumbled for words, embarrassed by her easy show of affection. He felt much closer to Robyn than he ever had to Bob. But his feelings were growing much more complex than simple friendship. He couldn't possibly reveal to her how he felt. That would kill their friendship for sure. Besides, there was Franklin complicating the situation immensely. He smiled back at her but didn't trust himself to speak. The shower shut off and Jim heard the bathroom door open. He offered up silent thanks for the chance to escape the awkward moment. "Time for my shower," he said quickly as he headed for the hallway. And saw Brad Franklin walking toward him with a towel wrapped around his waist. "Hey there Dilbert," Brad said contemptuously. He took in Jim's soaked shirt with a dismissive glance. "I didn't think you computer nerds worked up such a sweat at the keyboard. Had an all-nighter in one of those steamy chat rooms or something?" Jim refused to rise to the bait. He wasn't about to sink to the same level as this slime ball. "The name's Jim, Bradley. And that's my towel." "Sorry... Jim." Brad insolently made as if to unwrap the towel and said, "You want it back now?" "Keep it. I don't want it anymore." Jim stalked off to get his shower. "I think I used up all the hot water," Brad said to his retreating back. "Sorry about that dude." Robyn'd been afraid Brad and Jim would snap at each other and she'd been right. But Brad had insisted they stay at her place last night. Luckily Jim was asleep when they got in; more often than not he would wait up for her. She thought maybe Brad would leave before Jim got back from his run but she hadn't been that lucky. After her conversation with Jim just now she was feeling very close to him. It seemed to her that Brad had intentionally baited him. She reacted without thinking and whirled around to face down Brad. She shot him an exasperated look. "Hey! Why can't you two at least *try* to get along?" she said waspishly. Brad shrugged and sounded like a sullen two year old as he said, "He started it." He definitely didn't like Robyn showing a sign of backbone. He immediately twisted the incipient argument around by going off on a tangent. "Why are you taking his side? Why are you even staying here anyway? A girl living with two guys? I'm not sure I like my girl living like that." Robyn's burst of assertiveness faded under the force of his accusations. She mumbled, "I... ummm... I'm using my brother's room. It's cheaper and... and I don't have any other place to stay right now." She dropped her gaze, suddenly feeling unsure of herself and on the defensive. Why did I snap at him so, she thought. They'd just gotten over a fight (or 'misunderstanding' as Brad put it) and the last thing she wanted was a confrontation. She was afraid of upsetting Brad but loyalty to Jim drove her to defend him. "Besides Jim and Scott are my friends. There's nothing going on." "Well I don't like it. You should ask some of your girlfriends if they need a roommate. It's just a little creepy you hanging around those computer geeks. Especially that Jim guy - what's with him anyway? I could get jealous." "I said there's nothing between us. We're just friends. I wish you'd be a little nicer to Jim. You'd like him if you got to know him." Robyn said. She hated how weak she was. Her tone had gone from firm and assertive to whiney and plaintive. "And I wish you'd stop defending him. Who's more important, your friend or your boyfriend?" Brad persisted. He thought he'd give it a rest in a minute but the first seeds were planted. He was determined to separate Robyn from her nerdy friend; then he'd have her body and soul. "Brad, that's not fair! You're the most important man in my life. But I've been friends with Jim forever. And that's all it is - friendship. It's not the same as you and me. Please don't make me choose." She was on the verge of tears; her chin was quivering and she was shaking. Brad walked over to Robyn who looked totally defeated. He took her in his arms and kissed her soundly. When he sensed she was losing control and was at her most vulnerable he pulled back and looked down into her confused face. "Let's drop it, okay?" He drew her tightly against him and gave her ass a suggestive squeeze. "Mmmm. Something smells great. What's for breakfast?" To be Continued...