Prom Princess
Three Months
Karen was smiling at me. I should have realized it right then and there:
if she was smiling at me, it could not be good.
She had come over to drop something off from her Mom to my Mom. They
have been friends for a long time, which explains why Karen and I have
known each other for, well, ages. It looked like she had come over from
school since she was still in her Catholic school girl uniform. Since I
go to a public school, and since I loved to give her a hard time, I make
a crack about it.
Now, I admit, Karen is hot. She has long sandy blond hair that falls
past her shoulders, with a killer petite body and face to match. She was
of average height, but since even though it is our junior year in high
school and I still haven't gotten my damn growth spurt, we are really
close in height.
So yeah, she's stunning. But our Moms kept making us hang out together
while growing up, and I guess I never grew out of playing jokes on her
and teasing her. I never went too far. Okay, I think I never went too
far.
The thing is, I just loved ticking her off!! She was the type of girl
who would ignore me since I'm just a geek and not a big macho kinda guy,
both at my school and at hers. Besides, I teased my younger sister,
Elizabeth, also, so it wasn't as if I was just picking on Karen!
This time, however, was different. She didn't react as she normally
does, by rolling her eyes, or teasing me back, or getting mad and
leaving. She just smiled. She looked me up and down and asked, "Chuck,
mind if I talk to you?" She didn't wait for a response. She merely took
me by the arm and led me out of the house.
"Sure," I said, following her, "Need some help with something? Two plus
two is four, you know. And the capital of Russia is Moscow." She hates
it when I state the obvious.
But not this time. She reached into her Gucci backpack and pulled out
some papers. She handed one over to me, "Look familiar?"
"Yeah, that is my English paper." It was on Voting Rights for Women. I
knew nothing about that topic, nor cared. However, I got an A+ on it,
and bragged to Karen about it. She actually is quite smart, and over the
years we would compare grades and stuff. If I cared to admit it, she's
slightly smarter than me, so I never let the chance slip to gloat.
"Where did you get this? And why do you have it?"
"Oh, your sister gave it to me. I couldn't figure out how you got an A+
in English, which isn't your best subject." She smiled again, and handed
over another piece of paper. "It was a mystery, until I found this."
Shit.
How the hell did she do that?
In my hands was a copy of the paper I found online and copied. Look, I
needed a good grade, and don't usually cheat, but I was desperate this
time. I felt bad about it, and vowed never to do it again. I had hoped
no one would find out, but who would have thought anyone would, let
alone her! She goes to a different school, so why would she even care?
This was not good, and it must have shown on my face.
"Gee Chuck. What would happen if your Mom found out that you plagiarized
a paper? You'd be grounded at least for a week, wouldn't you?" That was
an understatement. I'd be dead. Karen didn't stop, though, "And what if
your teacher saw a copy of this? Hmmm... you'd probably get expelled,
and never get into college. You've not been good, have you?" She smiled
prettily at me.
This was not going well.
"Okay okay, you got me. What do you want?" I was trying to think fast,
"You can't tell anyone! I'll even pay you." No, not good at all.
She laughed. "No no no, Chuck. I don't want money." She stared me right
in the eye, "But you will pay, starting now. If you don't want anyone
finding copies of your paper and what I found on the Internet, you'll do
exactly as I say. Understand?"
Copies? Figures. She was too smart for my own good. "Sure, anything."
She shook her head, "I don't think you understand, but you will, and
soon. First things first. From now on, you will call me Miss Karen
whenever we are alone together, like we are now. And I want you to swear
that you will do anything I tell you to do, no matter what."
"You must be kidding."
She just glared at me, "No, I'm not. I am not very patient at the
moment." She made to turn away. "Time to go online."
"Okay, okay!! I swear that I will do whatever you tell me to do." She
looked at me again, and motioned with her hand, so I added, "Miss
Karen." This sucked.
"Good, very good. Now, let's lay the ground rules down. In addition to
calling me Miss Karen, you will be nice to your sister from now on. If I
hear you've done anything to make her upset or sad, then I'll let her in
on our little secret and let her order you around too. Got it?"
I nodded.
"When I ask you a question, you answer me verbally, adding 'Miss Karen'.
Try again."
"Yes, Miss Karen."
"Excellent. See, you can learn!" She ruffled my hair, and I couldn't do
anything to stop her. "From now on you will meet me after school every
day. I know your school gets out earlier, so you will just have to wait.
You'll be carrying my books home, and it will give us time together
every day so I can help you get ready."
I blinked, "Get ready for what?"
She smiled again. I've never seen her smile this much, "This is the best
part. You see, I'm tired of how much you tease me, especially about how
I dress and the things I do. You are worse to me than to your sister,
but I think you have a bad attitude about women in general. I realize
there is no male influence in your family, but that doesn't excuse it.
So, I've decided to help you. Therefore, you are going to go to my
Junior prom with me as a my date!"
"Your date? Really?" Wow... that would actually be nice! "Okay, I can do
that, and I'll be the perfect gentleman. Who knows, that might actually
be fun!" I never expected to go to my Prom, let alone anyone else's. And
with Karen? Wow, maybe she likes me or something!
She giggled. Yes, she actually giggled, "I knew you didn't understand."
"I'm not your date?"
"Oh, yes, you are my date, but you won't be going as a guy. You're going
to be going as my girlfriend."
What the hell? "No, no way. You must be joking."
She smirked at me, "Trust me, I never joke. You are going as my
girlfriend. Pretty gown, high heels, hair done... speaking of which,
don't get your hair cut anymore. It is short, but in three months we can
do something fun with it."
This had gone far enough. "No. I won't do that. It is insane!! I'll do
what you want, carry your books, do your homework, whatever. But I'm not
going to be a girl."
Shrugging, she turned towards the house, "Mrs. Rosenberg! Can I see you
for a minute?"
I ran in front of her, "Wait, stop! Look, does it have to be this?"
"Yes, it does. This is what I want. And trust me, I will turn you in
unless you are a good girl." She thought for a moment, and then said, "I
guess you need time to think about this. Here is your first assignment.
Meet me tomorrow after school with a copy of the Seventeen Prom issue.
If you are there with it, and tell me that you will be a good girl while
addressing me properly, then I won't tell your Mom and your teacher."
She started to walk away. My jaw was hitting the ground, "Where am I
supposed to get a girl's magazine?"
"At any drug store or supermarket, silly. You'll have to buy it.
Although, your sister might have a copy. You could just borrow hers!"
And with that, she laughed and left, while I stood there thinking that
yes, her coming over was not a good thing. I was so screwed.
I didn't get much sleep that night. I avoided my sister Liz. She knew
something was up with me and Karen, and that I had stopped teasing her,
but she didn't give me a hard time.
I couldn't believe it. How could I have been so stupid to cheat? And
Karen actually figured it out!! I guess it isn't hard if you knew what
to look for. And you were very smart. And petty. And vindictive.
The Prom? As a girl?? She was insane! Well, if she wanted to humiliate
me, she figured out the perfect way. I was very sensitive about my
slight build and such. Why did she have to pick this?
I couldn't really concentrate in school the next day. Some of friends
asked what was up but I blew them off. I had pretty much made up my mind
that Karen had me, and with my promise and her threat, I'd end up doing
anything she wanted. I just hope it didn't include stupid things like
watching the Gilmore Girls.
After school, on the way to her school, I stopped by a drug store for
the magazine. I went quickly, just in case anyone from school showed up.
This sucked. I found the magazine section, and there looked like there
were dozens of girl's and women's magazines, all talking about boys and
clothes and makeup. Blech. What a waste of time. I had to thumb through
the stacks to find the prom stuff, but I did: Seventeen Prom. There were
other magazines about the Prom, at least two of them, but I'm sure I got
the right one.
The girl at the counter couldn't hold back a comment, "Oooh, all excited
about your prom this year, dear?" I just muttered something about
getting it for my sister and left, stuffing it into my backpack.
I read a sci-fi book while waiting for Karen to get out of class. I
looked out of place waiting in front of the girl's side of the catholic
school, but I wasn't the only one there at least. Karen was beaming when
she saw me. "So, what have you decided?"
I swallowed, knowing what she wanted. "I'd be ... honored to go to the
prom with you, Miss Karen." I handed her the magazine.
She didn't take it. Instead, she grinned, and clapped her hands
together, "And?"
I cringed a bit, "And I would love to go as your girlfriend." I felt
defeated. I was going to feel that way a lot. I also felt like a fool
holding the bright pastel magazine in my hands as we talked.
She hugged me, "Good girl, Linda! This is going to be tons of fun, for
me at least." She handed me her book bag and started walking. I slipped
the small girl's bag over one shoulder and caught up to her.
"Who's Linda?"
"You are! I can't go around calling you with a silly boy's name, can I?"
"But..."
"No buts. I want you to say 'My name is Linda, and I want to be a pretty
prom princess'."
My mouth hung open. She had to be kidding.
As if reading my mind, she continued talking. "Linda, I'm not kidding.
Don't make me tell you twice. Everything I say is an order: everything.
You don't obey right away, you get punished. If you are a good girl, you
get rewarded." She handed me her red shoulder purse, "Now, because you
didn't obey me, you get to carry my purse too." As I took it she slipped
the strap over my shoulder, "There, that is a good color for you. Now,
repeat what I said, or we'll just have to buy you a purse of your own to
carry."
What else could I do? "My name is ...Linda. I want to be a pretty prom
princess."
"Again."
I swallowed, "My name is Linda and I want to be a pretty prom
princess." The line was bad enough, but carrying a purse just made it
that much worse.
"You don't sound like you mean it. I want you excited about this!"
I so wanted to get back at her. "My name is Linda and I want to be a
pretty prom princess!!"
She laughed, "Not bad, Linda, not bad. I don't think you mean it though.
Okay, two more assignments. I want you to find a nice feminine notebook
and a pink girly pen, and write out what you just said 50 times. You'll
be judged on penmanship. And you'd better make sure you get a very
pretty notebook and pen: you don't want to find out what will happen if
I'm disappointed. Second, I want you to go through the magazine and pick
out three gowns that you like and tell me why. Ooh, one more thing, read
over prom planner. You'll see it easily in the mag. Understand?"
I nodded, this was getting worse, "Yes, Miss Karen."
"Sounds like fun, doesn't it, Linda??"
"Yes, it does, Miss Karen."
"Don't worry, Linda. You'll get more excited when we go shopping and try
on gowns. All girls love that!"
Sure, girls do, not boys. It still hadn't sunk in that I'd be trying on
gowns, in public, but it was starting too. She took her purse and book
bag and went up to her door, "I want to see this after school, so you'd
better start on your homework now!"
I quickly went to a different store to find a notebook. The pen was
easy, lots of girly colors around. The notebook was harder. Yes, there
were teen girl notebooks, but there was too much too choose from.
Puppies, kittens, or plain pink. I felt like an idiot standing there
looking at notebooks, so I picked the pink one with "cute" red hearts
all over it. If this wasn't good enough, I didn't know what was. At
least the girl at the checkout counter didn't give me a problem.
Have you ever written the same thing fifty times in a row? Over and
over: My name is Linda and I want to be a pretty prom princess! All in
pink in a book filled with hearts. It was driving me crazy. And that
night, all I could think about was that my name was Linda.
The next day I met up with Karen after school as ordered. While waiting
I flipped through the magazine. It had tons of gowns in it, and also
accessories, quizzes, and information about boys. I hid it in one of my
books so that no one would see the cover. How was I supposed to pick out
three gowns? Screw this. I randomly picked three and dog-eared the
pages.
I continued flipping through the magazine and found the prom planner.
She couldn't be serious! We'd have to start shopping for a gown now. It
talked about getting hair done at a salon, buying lingerie, and
practicing walking in heels. I had to get out of this.
When I saw Karen, I pleaded with her. "Please, Miss Karen. I really am
sorry for what I did all those years. I was wrong. Honest, I'll never do
anything like that again, to you, my sister, or anyone. Please, can we
just drop the prom thing?"
She handed over her books and purse again. Some girls laughed when they
saw me carrying it. "That is still a good color on you!" Karen said,
"and no, Linda. You are going to the prom. You have been a bad girl. I
am glad you are apologizing. That shows that you can improve, but trust
me, this transformation is for your own good."
"But why? Why do you want to do this, Miss Karen?"
She stopped walking and looked at me, right in my eyes. "For many
reasons. Aside from the fun revenge part, which will make me very happy,
the main one is because I can. I want to do this. I want to see if I can
make you want to be a girl. I'll accept you pretending to want to be my
girly girl, but I do wonder how much I can control your habits and
desires. Consider it ... an experiment. Just think, by the time of your
prom, you might really want to be a prom princess. I figure if I punish
you when you are a bad girl and reward you when you are good, I can make
you do anything. And thanks to your cheating, I have the perfect
opportunity."
I was a lab rat in an experiment. There was no way out for me, either.
As we walked to her home I showed her the notebook. "Oh, Linda, I love
the hearts! You did very well!"
I rolled my eyes.
"Now now, be good. Say 'Thank you, Miss Karen'. Do that whenever I
compliment you."
What choice did I have? "Thank you, Miss Karen." She didn't like the pen
though. I could use it, but she wanted me to have one that was more
girly. "More girly? How?"
"That's easy, Linda. Find one with hearts or flowers on it, or, oh, I
know! With a big fuzzy pouffy top on it! Yes, that is what you should
get. Understand?"
"Yes, Miss Karen." I wanted to just run away. As we walked, she told me
how I should hold the purse, with my hand on the strap up by my
shoulder, or holding it at the bag, with my elbow at my side.
Karen teased me some more. "Just think of it as you going to finishing
school!"
When we got to her house we went straight to her room. It was nice,
tasteful. Sure, feminine, but not ultra girly or anything like that. I
never imagined I'd be in her room. Actually, I never imagined being in
her room with a prom magazine open on my lap, knees together as
instructed, and talking about what I'd need to do to be a prom princess.
I read out loud from the magazine prom planning guide, and Karen would
discuss with me what we would be doing. Well, it was more like she told
me what was in store, and I had to agree.
"At three months," I began reading, "Start planning. Find out date of
the prom. Got a boyfriend? Think about how to make your night special.
No steady guy to speak of? Make a list of potential dream dates - from
your crush to your lovable best guy friend."
She laughed at me, "While it would be fun to have to dream about boys
all the time, even I don't think I could get you to do that in only
three months. We'll save that for later. Besides, I'm your date, Linda!
Isn't it great that you don't have to worry about that?"
"Yes, Miss Karen, it is." She motioned for me to continue. "Make a prom
scrapbook. Buy a notebook and fill it with photos of dresses and hair
and makeup looks you like from magazines. That way you'll start to see
what kind of overall vibe you think you want for prom." Ugh.
"Oooh, that is a fun idea! This is good. Now, it is about three months
until the prom, so buy the scrapbook now. Again, make it pretty, and I
want you to start filling it with the gowns and things you like. I'd
better see something new in it every week. Got it?"
I nodded. This kept getting worse and worse. "Yes, Miss Karen, thank
you. Next: Try a new workout. Feeling a little less toned than what
you'd like? Now is the time to get back into yoga, kickboxing, or
whatever it takes to get your body in backless-dress shape. Check out
your local YMCA for after-school classes, or go to page 175 for a simple
workout you can do at home." Backless-dress. Great.
She thought about that for a moment, and then smiled, "Yoga. That is a
wonderful idea. I go every morning before school. You should join me.
There aren't any men in class, but that shouldn't bother you, you being
one of the girls. This is perfect! We'll workout together, and then you
can carry my books to school too! Write that down in your notebook.
Okay, what is next?"
This was going way too fast. She wasn't even giving me time to argue.
"Hit the stores. Many stores start getting their prom dresses in
December, so organize a shopping trip ASAP with your friends - you'll
want to stop by the shops before everyone else in your school cleans out
all the stock." I winced.
She giggled, "Oh come on Linda, this will be one of the most fun things
we do, trying on dresses all over town!! Definitely add that. What
else?"
My knees were cramping and I spread my legs a bit. She noticed it and
pushed them back together. I continued, "Create a budget. While you're
checking out dresses and shoes, pay attention to price ranges so you'll
know what you're doing when you work on the budget form. Talk to your
parents about how much they are going to contribute and how much you'll
be responsible for. Write it all down on the form."
"Right. Well, you will buy what I tell you to buy, but you should fill
out that form anyway. So add that too. I'll help somewhat, but if you
find you don't have enough money for all you'll need, you'll have to get
a job, as a waitress or maid or something."
I stood up, "Karen, come on!! I can't be a waitress! You are going way
too far!"
She used her command voice, "Linda, sit down. Now." I recalled all she
had on me, and I sat. She stared, and I put my knees together. She then
went over to her vanity, "How dare you talk back to me." She took a
barrette that had a pink ribbon in a bow and affixed to it and walked
over to me. As she put it in my hair, she explained, "There, maybe this
will remind you to be a good girl. If you don't talk back, maybe I'll
remember to take it out before you leave. If not, I have plenty of
makeup and some things that might fit you. Got it?"
I nodded. I was terrified, this was going so fast, "Yes, Miss Karen.
I'm...really sorry."
"Are you?"
I tried to be enthusiastic, "Yes, I really am Miss Karen."
"So that means you like the barrette?"
What could I say? "Yes, I love the barrette, Miss Karen, it is really
pretty."
"You love it enough to wear it all the way home then?"
I always knew she was smart. Everything I did or said was just getting
me in deeper. I was afraid of what would happen if I said no. "I would
be honored to wear it home, Miss Karen. Please, may I?"
She then surprised me by hugging me, "Yes, of course you can! Linda, I'm
so proud of you! See, it is fun being a girl!" I couldn't help myself, I
hugged her back. I was so relieved that she was happy, and I'm not
kidding, it made me feel good. What was she doing to me? This positive
and negative reinforcement was leaving me dizzy.
"Linda, I'm so incredibly proud of you, and that it seems like you did
read over this schedule, you deserve a reward. Let me think... something
special. Wait, I got it!" She then did something that surprised me, and
actually touched me. She took off her necklace and put it on me. It was
a very delicate silver chain, long on her, and kinda long on me. On the
chain was a delicate heart charm with a pretty vine pattern. She wore it
everywhere. "Linda, I want you to have this, to keep. Wear it all the
time, and think of how it represents that you are my girl." She hugged
me again, "I will understand if during school you want to wear it close
to your heart under your clothes, but otherwise, wear it out open,
okay?"
I nodded. I almost felt tears in my eyes. From humiliation, and from
something else. She seemed to really care about me, even though she was
putting me through all this. I had no idea what to think. I was also
constantly aware of the barrette in my hair and the heart necklace.
She had me continue with the checklist. "That's it for three months
before hand. At two months, they say: Give yourself a weekly manicure.
The goal is to get your nails in good condition before prom (because you
can't make them grow overnight)." She had me add that, saying that we'll
get polish and stuff later.
"Hang out with the guys you like. Start spending some time with the guys
on your wish list." Again, she would be my date, so this didn't need to
be written down. But I would be sure to hang out with her a lot, for
girl talk and shopping. Yay.
"Plan a post-prom party. Ask your friends for post-prom party ideas.
Start researching the five best ones for costs (midnight bowling,
anyone?)." I looked over at her.
"Hmmm. Why don't you let me plan that. Is that okay with you, Linda?"
"Yes, Miss Karen, thank you." I had no idea what she would plan, but
compared to going to the prom, it wouldn't matter. I was still trying to
figure a way out of this, when she noticed that my knees weren't
together again.
She sighed at me, "Oh well, time for some lip gloss."
No way!! I couldn't complain, that wasn't working, so I tried something
else, "Miss Karen, I really was trying! I'm not used to sitting like a
girl. I need help, please? This isn't something I can learn to do in
five minutes!" I had put my knees together and looked her pleadingly.
That seemed to satisfy her. She adjusted my barrette, "You are right,
Linda. I'm sorry. I have an idea though." She opened her purse and took
out a quarter, "Keep this between your knees. When they drift apart,
you'll hear it fall and that will remind you to sit like a lady!" I
agreed that would work, and put the coin between my knees. Several times
that afternoon I heard the coin drop, but it did help. When my legs
really started hurting, she let me cross my ankles and put my knees to
one side, "You can switch poses, just make sure you are graceful and
ladylike."
I went on to read the last two month item, "Balance your budget. Check
back in with your budget form. Figure out if you need to save more money
or change some of your plans." She left that one up to me. One month had
a lot of items:
* Organize the group. Double-dating? Going with your girlfriends? Figure
out who's going to help pitch in for the limo and post-prom parties.
"I'll handle the limo for you, Linda, and if you don't mind, we won't
double date." That was totally fine with me.
* Book transportation. Divide the cost evenly and tell everyone what
their share will be. "Again, not your problem!"
* Buy your dress! Check with your friends to make sure no one's already
bought your favorite outfit. Ask the store if they keep a registry of
who bought which gown - it's the best way to avoid prom-dress drama.
"I can't wait to see what dress you buy!! Your first gown - all the
boys will just drool over you!"
* Pick out your lingerie. Figure out what kind of bra you need for your
style of dress on page 114. "Oh, yes, Linda, you will be wearing
lingerie. From head to toe you are going to be all girl!"
* Book salon appointments. Go over your day-of-prom checklist (page 51)
to make sure you leave enough time for your manicure, pedicure, and
hair appointments, as well as everything else on your list. "This goes
on the list too, Linda. Stop making that face. I expect you to smile.
That's better."
* Choose a new perfume. Hit the stores to find the right fragrance for
prom night. Spritz to see what you like and then ask for samples to
take home. Keep them on your dresser and try a new one every few days.
If your favorite pick is too pricey, see if one of your girlfriends
wants to chip in so the two of you can share a bottle. "Fortunately,
this magazine has samples, and I have lots of perfume. If you don't
like any of my stuff, we'll find you something pretty."
At first I thought I'd just be wearing a gown. Now I realized she was
going for the whole prom experience. Like getting my hair done and
wearing perfume. She was also going to take me shopping in public. How
was I going to get out of this??
"Only one thing for three weeks out: Select your accessories. Now that
you've got the dress, you need to buy coordinating jewelry, purse, and
heels. Check your budget first." Right: jewelry, purse, and heels. More
shopping. She had me write that all down too, and tell her how much I
wanted really pretty accessories.
"Two weeks before: Make any major hair changes. Go ahead and get any
last-minute salon services, like highlights, hair coloring, chemical
straightening, or a haircut. You need to take this tress time long
before the big day so you can get used to any changes or have any
necessary touch-ups done." I asked her about my hair. Did she really
plan on highlights?
"I'm not sure yet, Linda. We'll go over hairstyles. I'm sure we can give
you something pretty. Highlights might work, but maybe not. Don't worry
so much about your hair, silly girl!!"
We both knew I wasn't, but that didn't matter to her. "Try styling your
new look. You need to practice your hairstyle if you're going to be
doing it yourself for prom. Have your friends over with their blow-
dryers and styling products, and set up a mini salon in your room. Take
photos of the results so you can refer back later." As I wrote this
down, Karen reminded me that we would have lot of photos to go over.
"Go to see the florist. Bring your date so you can place orders for a
coordinating corsage and boutonniere. Ask the shop what time you can
pick them up on the day of the prom (or maybe they'll deliver, find
out)." I had to write that one too.
"Don't worry, Linda, you will have the prettiest flowers. Trust me."
At seven days before, there was only one thing, but it was big. I
dropped my quarter as I read it and had to fix my knees. "Get waxing
done. This is the time to do facials, waxes, and mustache bleaches -
it'll give your skin a chance to relax before the big day." I wrote it
down without her prompting, and she just smiled. A leg wax. Oh no. I
probably will have to get my armpits done too!
"Six days: a final fitting. Pick up your dress if it was altered, and
try on your whole outfit. Make sure everything fits." I was pretty much
writing everything down on my list. This was getting huge.
"Linda, I can't wait to see you all decked out. You'll be just like a
princess! Oooh, I love the next one."
I read out loud. "Practice walking in heels. This week, whenever you're
at home, wear your high heels - with socks. It'll break in your shoes
before prom night, stretching them and roughing up slippery soles." She
laughed, and told me that my sister would be sure to give me pointers
for walking in heels. I cringed, and was determined that Lizzie never
would discover this.
"Three days before: Figure out photo ops. Do you want Mom to take
'getting dressed' shots? Want the photos in black-and-white? Find out if
your date's parents want to take photos too." She said there would be
lots of photos, but she'd leave it up to me to see if my Mom wanted
picks. To myself I vowed that my Mom was never going to find out about
this!
This next one floored me. "Two days before: Prepare your tote bag. Pack
your extra stuff, including your after-party outfit. You'll throw it in
the trunk on prom night. A packing list is on page 86." I had to know
what was on that list. She happily had me flip through the magazine to
page 86, and had me write everything down. The list was insane, and she
insisted I'd have everything from that: pain relievers, tampons,
toothpaste, mints, deodorant, hairspray, spare cash, extra film, your
favorite fragrance, face-cleansing wipes, a bottle of water, CDs for the
limo ride, a change of panties and bra (if you need different lingerie
for your post-prom outfit), flip-flops (in case you need a break from
your heels), and post-prom jeans and top. She wasn't sure if I'd be
wearing jeans, we'd have to see. But yes, feminine deodorant, and yes,
I'll have a tampon in my trunk and in my purse. I was still confused,
and asked, "I'll need more than the prom outfit, Miss Karen?"
"Of course you will silly! You'll need an outfit for after prom, and
also for when we go to salons and stuff. You need to get used to your
gown, and wearing skirts and dresses will help. These are going to be a
fun three months, Linda!!"
A very long three months. The last thing for two days before was:
"Confirm the pickup time. Coordinate with your date. Confirm your
reservation with the limo company." Like Karen would let me forget.
Karen loved the day before tasks. "Reserve the bathroom. Tell your
family you need full access for two hours before pickup," "Double-check
the meeting time. Make sure your date is still planning to be on
schedule," and "Count your cash. You need enough for the limo and dinner
(refer to your budget)."
She grinned, "I wonder what your mom and sister will think when you
reserve the bathroom! Hmmm, let's see, the night before you just relax
at home in your high heels with the girls... that will be fun, and then
go to bed early. We'll review the day of activities later." She touched
the barrette in my hair, "Now, what gowns did you pick out?"
I showed her three of the random ones. She asked me questions like "Why
did you pick that color" and "How does that style flatter your body?"
That sort of thing. I didn't answer well, and it was obvious that I
didn't think about it. She wasn't happy.
"Linda, I'm very disappointed in you, so of course that means another
assignment. I want you to write in your notebook this mantra: I will be
a good girl by always obeying Miss Karen and always agreeing with her."
I looked at her with an open mouth. She continued, "Write that in your
notebook fifty times. I think that will help you obey me faster. Okay,
go home young lady. You have your assignments, and I'll see you tomorrow
at yoga. Wear something loose! We'll do the dresses later after we've
hit the stores!"
She pushed me out the door, still wearing her barrette and her locket. I
put the locket under my shirt and hurried home. I don't think anyone
noticed me wearing the barrette. I was terrified to take it off until
just before I walked in the door. I felt like she would find out
somehow.
That night I wrote out the mantra, reinforcing that I'd be a good girl
and always obey Karen. She was driving me insane. I didn't sleep well
that night. I dreamed about prom gowns.
Early the next day I met her at her place getting ready for the workout.
She looked me up and down and smiled, "All black, huh?" I was wearing
black sweatpants and a black t-shirt. "Well have to fix that." She
pulled out my locket so it was outside my shirt, and handed me her
purse. "Leave your books and clothes here. We'll come back, shower, and
get ready for school. I have a surprise for you!"
Lamely I followed her. The classes were free for students as it was part
of some fitness program, but Karen made me sign up using Linda as my
first name. The teacher thought that was funny, and she asked if that
was really my name. I shook my head no but Karen cut me off, "That isn't
his real name, but Linda said she wants to be one of the girls." She
looked at me and I nodded, crushed. Karen smiled and asked the
instructor, "That's okay, isn't it?"
"Sure! We haven't had any guys here lately, so maybe that will make it
easier. Linda, I'm Becky. Don't hesitate to talk to me if you have any
problems."
I was the star of the yoga class. I could barely do the basic poses, let
alone anything more advanced. I tried hard, and the girl's cheered me
on, calling me Linda all the time and giving me tips. They made sure I
felt like one of the girls. One of them commented on my clothes, saying
I was a bit boyish. Karen let her know that she'd be taking care of that
and of course they had to give lots of suggestions for clothing and
accessories. They all adored my cute heart necklace, and asked where I
got it and if I wanted to borrow any of their jewelry. I'm starting to
really hate women.
Class couldn't end fast enough for me. Back at her home we showered,
separately (unfortunately), but as I was about to put on my shirt she
handed me some deodorant, "I got this for you! Do you like it?" I knew
what answer she expected. I grimaced when I looked at it: Secret Sparkle
Violet Dazzle. She is going to have me wear girl's deodorant and smell
pretty.
"Thank you, Miss Karen! This is a wonderful gift!" What else could I
say? If I sounded upset, she would probably have me do something worse,
like wear lipstick or some such nonsense. She watched me carefully as I
put it on. I hoped no one would notice the smell. I could easily smell
it, but I figured, and was right, that its flowery scent would dissipate
quickly.
We finished dressing (and fortunately she took back her barrette) and
headed off to school, with my heart locket on under my shirt. The next
few days went by quickly, way too quickly. She added these mantras,
which I had to write fifty times each:
* I will sit up straight, knees together, hold my head high, and cross
my ankles like a proper young lady.
* To get a girlish figure, instead of snacking, I will drink water.
* I enjoy being a pretty girl!
I wrote them all out. I also had to write out the other mantras, and she
would quiz me on them. Her assignments were affecting me. I found myself
really drinking more water and snacking less. I also was getting better
at sitting properly, and Karen would comment on it gleefully. I was
beginning to worry that I'd sit like a girl automatically, even around
my family!
I was hoping that she would just enjoy what was happening, and not
really do the prom thing, but the events on Friday after school ruined
my hopes. Instead of going home we walked to the mall. She had me pull
out my locket and hold her purse and books, as usual. As we walked she
quizzed me.
"Linda, hand me your note book, and please recite your mantras to me by
heart."
I handed it over and did the best I could. "Yes, Miss Karen. Um...I
enjoy being a pretty girl." That was the last one I wrote. "My name is
Linda. I....want to be a pretty prom princess."
"Don't whisper girl, speak louder!"
I continued, getting more embarrassed, but if I had known what was
coming, I would have realized this was nothing. "I will be a good girl
and always obey Miss Karen. I will sit up straight like a proper young
lady. And, instead of snacking, I will drink water."
She nodded, "Not bad, Linda, but not perfect. I expect perfection from
you. I don't want any hesitation. You should speak them clearly and
happily, or I'll start to think you don't want to be a girl and add more
assignments." We were walking inside the mall now. "So, you need to be
punished. First, though, your assignment is this: over the weekend, be
sure to memorize these first four mantras. I expect them to be perfect.
Got it?"
I did. "Yes, Miss Karen. I understand." I'm being stupid and really need
to take this seriously. Especially since we entered the Victoria's
Secret store. "Um... Miss Karen, why are we going here?"
She smiled at me as we walked over to look at lingerie, "Sweetie, you
can't wear a gown without proper foundation garments. And because you
didn't know your mantras, I decided that you need more feminine
reminders of your new status. So, instead of just getting one pair, I'm
going to make sure you have enough for a week at a time! Unless you want
to buy more of course."
Speechless and a bit numb, I watched as she looked over various types of
bras. She held them up in front of my chest in full view of the store!
It was pretty empty, but one of the salesgirls noticed and came over.
"Can I help you?" she asked Karen.
"Yes, my friend Linda here needs some new bras and panties. Her old
stuff is too, well, boyish. Can you help?"
I could have died. The salesgirl started laughing, "You are kidding,
right?" Her eyes took in my pretty heart locket and the purse I was
wearing.
Karen motioned me to answer. I lowered my head and said, "Yes, she's
right. I would like some....underwear, please."
The salesgirl smiled and shrugged, "Hey, a sale is a sale. My name is
Mandy. Do you know what size bra and panty you wear?" Yeah, right. I
shook my head no. "Well, put down your ... purse, um, Linda, and let me
measure you." All the other sales girls were watching as I held up my
arms and she took the tape measure around my chest in several places,
and around my waist and hips. "Well, you aren't well endowed, but a B
cup should work. And you are a medium." She told me my exact bra size,
"Every girl should know this, so don't forget!"
They both started holding up bras and panties in front of my body, and
eventually had me hold them myself so they could look. Other salesgirls
started giving advice. Karen decided my first bras should be simple, so
they settled on something called Body by Victoria. It looked silky, and
fortunately didn't have lace, but it was lingerie! Mandy handed me a set
in pink and pushed me to the changing room, "Let's see how this fits,
Linda."
"Karen...Miss Karen, please? Can't we just buy them and go??" I was
pleading.
"Linda, I know you are desperate to purchase your new lingerie, but
honestly, you have to try it on." She saw me hesitate. "You know, there
are other styles we can get, lacier ones, and a few low rise g-string
panties," she pointed. I went.
I tried to change quickly. The faster this was over, the faster, well, I
guess more would happen. But at least I'd be out of this store. The
panties were sort of normal. I learned later they were high cut style,
and they fit me. I saw myself in the mirror and hated how I looked.
Worse, I was getting aroused. The feel of the silk, the overload of
embarrassment and what was going on was just getting to me, and I was
getting hard. That just made it even worse, and I tried to will it to
stop, but that just made me get harder. Why is it that when I want to be
hard I'm not, but when I don't want to be I am?
Then I tried the bra. For the life of me I couldn't get it on. Mandy
must have been getting bored, been prompted by Karen, or both, because
she just barged right in. "Oh Linda, do you need help?" she giggled. She
whispered in a conspiriatory fashion, "All girls have problems with
their first bra. Don't worry, honey! With practice you'll be fine." With
that, she threaded my arms through the straps, turned me around, and
hooked the back. She looked at my image in the mirror, "Hey, that isn't
too bad! With the right dress, you'll make quite an impact!" She was
staring at my crotch and not hiding her glee. She could tell I was
aroused and she seemed to like the control. Then before I knew it she
pulled me outside where Karen and the remaining salesgirls were
watching.
Dejected, I followed their instructions, walking back and forth, moving
my arms, modeling. They fussed over my bra, adjusting the straps and
making comments. While standing there they brought out four other
colors. Mandy explained, "You are wearing pink romance. These others
that your girlfriend picked for you are whisper pink, ivory, black
(every girl needs a sexy black bra!), and french navy."
Before I could change, I discovered that they also picked out a pink
racerback sports bra ("I hear you do Yoga, Linda!") and a pink lace
pushup bra with matching panty. They insisted that I model them too.
I was sent back in to put on my clothes, but I wasn't allowed to change.
My underwear was missing, too. I checked the mirror. If you knew to
look, you could probably see the bra.
Victoria's Secret was having a huge sale on this stuff, but it still
cost me a small fortune. I don't know how girls can pay so much for such
skimpy things. Karen made sure there were matching high cut panties to
go with each bra. The salesgirls kept touching my shirt, feeling the bra
straps, and asking how much I loved my new lingerie. I had to tell them
over and over how much I did. They complimented me on my selections, and
complemented Karen on her taste too, and then Mandy added, "I added
something to your purchases. On the house. I hope you like it!"
She handed me one of those bright pink boxes from the store. I opened it
and looked through the tissue paper and pulled it out. I could have
cried I was so humiliated. As I held it up, Karen happily said, "A
nightgown! What a wonderful gift!"
It was one of their Canterbury nightgowns. Mandy explained, "It is in an
airy woven cotton. Look at the delicate details with just a touch of
lace. The hem will reach to your ankles, and the straps will show off
your pretty shoulders and arms! And see, I got it in tinted blooms.
Promise me you'll wear it to bed every night?"
With Karen's insistence, I did. "Yes, of course, thank you." I had no
intension of obeying that. She doesn't control me at home!
We finally left. Mandy told me to come back for more lingerie after I
got my prom gown. Dammit! Did Karen have to tell her everything! I
almost tripped on my feet when I heard that.
As we walked through the mall, with me holding the bright pink packages
and her purse, she gave an assignment to write about my purchases,
describing them, and how much I loved them. As I was terrified of
getting more punishments, I went a bit overboard. It didn't help that
while window shopping she threatened to get me causal dresses in
addition to the prom gown. So, this is what I wrote:
Miss Karen, thank you so much for helping me buy my first set of bras
and panties!! The main five bras I have are unlined full coverage bras.
They are made of soft, high-tech microfiber, and claim to "support shape
and comfort in one bra that's seamlessly sexy." They have underwire
support to keep my curves in place. The wide, soft straps will pamper my
shoulders, and it has a deep u-back with black closure. I love all the
colors, but the two pink ones are my favorite. The matching panties are
high cut briefs, and I love how both the bra and panty feel on my body.
I'm such a lucky girl!
However, my favorite bra is the smooth lace pushup bra in promenade
pink! It is from the very sexy lingerie collection. It has the beauty of
lace, but it is lined so that it doesn't show through, and has a back
closure. I love how the pushup cups give me a bit of cleavage. I hope I
can wear this with my new prom gown!
She kept the handwritten essay, which had my signature, with her. Now
she had yet another thing to blackmail me with.
On the way out of the mall we passed in front of Prom and Bridal store.
"Linda, this is where we will first go shopping tomorrow. Mark my words.
If you aren't a good, excited and happy girl tomorrow, I will have you
model actual bridal gowns and call your mother and sister here to see
you. Understand?"
Bridal gowns? She was thinking of dressing me up as a bride, too? I
understood completely. She could do anything she wanted, and I really
had no choice, "Yes, Miss Karen. I really can't wait to try on my gown!"
Karen beamed, "Good girl, Linda. That is exactly what I thought."
She let me go home after dropping her stuff of at her place. She didn't
let me switch bags or remove my undergarments, so I had to sneak home.
Mom wasn't there yet, and the place looked empty, but as I was running
upstairs I saw my sister coming out of the kitchen. I dashed faster.
"Chuck," she yelled and ran after me. "What are those bags?" She chased
me up the stairs to me room, "And what is wrong with your shirt?"
I got to my room and slammed the door in her face. She wanted to know
what the colorful bags were for. I lost it, "Lizzie, stop banging on my
fucking door you little idiot!" She pounded even harder while I threw
the bags in my closet and, after almost ripping off my shirt, struggling
with the damn bra. I started to curse at her and threaten her unless she
left me the hell alone. I really lost it. She gave up and went away.
I finally got the damn bra off. I took the lingerie and hid it in the
back of my closet. I stuffed the bags there too, and would throw them
away later. I also put the nightgown back there. There was no way I was
wearing that!
While doing all this I was dreading tomorrow. I was actually going to
wear a prom gown! A weeks worth of Karen's mantras were constantly
haunting my mind. I kept hearing myself say that I wanted to be a pretty
prom princess and all that. As long as I couldn't think of anything
else, I opened my notebook and started to memorize the mantras. I didn't
want to fail a quiz again.
Liz knocked on my door again, more gently but insistent. I wasn't in the
mood. I really hated girls now. "Go away, twerp!"
"There is someone on the phone who wants to talk to you!"
I didn't hear the phone ring. "Who?"
She sounded really happy, almost triumphant. "I think you'd better open
your door and take this phone call....Linda."
Shit. Damn it.
I opened the door. The brat just walked right in, tossed me the phone
and started rooting around my room. I talked in the phone, "Hello?"
"Linda, you've been a very bad girl, haven't you???"
I gulped. I'd have nowhere to get away from this nightmare now. "Yes,
Miss Karen." I spoke in a normal voice in front of my sister. It was
obvious that Liz knew everything.
"Don't you think you should apologize?"
"I'm sorry, Miss Karen."
"Not to me, you silly girl! To your sister!"
I turned to Liz, "I'm very sorry, Lizzie, for yelling at you and cursing
at you."
She smirked, "Oh, I know you are. But don't worry big brother, I think
things will be different from now on."
Karen continued on the phone, "Elizabeth knows everything. Unless it
goes against one of my orders, Linda, you are to obey her, and do
everything she tells you to do, understand?"
"Yes, Miss Karen."
"Prove it. Let me hear you tell your sister, properly now, that you will
obey her."
Liz was beaming at me, waiting. I lowered the phone and with pain I
said, "I'm sorry, Miss Elizabeth, for the way I've treated you. Please
let me know what I can do to make it up to you. I will be a good girl
and do what ever you say." I put my phone back up to my ear and heard
Karen's approval. She had me hand the phone to Liz.
"Hi!! Yes, I'm very happy! No, he isn't wearing his bra. And I don't see
any of it. No, I don't see his nightgown." She looked at me, "Linda,
where is all your stuff?" I went to closet and pulled it out. Liz
continued on the phone, "Yes, there it is. He, I mean, she has
everything. Oh yes, she'll be wearing her nightgown tonight, don't
worry!! Ha ha!! Can I punish her too? Thanks! You're the best, Karen. I
can't wait until your prom!! Bye bye!!"
Liz began to lay down the law. I was no longer allowed to call her my
little sister anymore. She gloated how her growth spurt meant she was
only a hair shorter than me, so big and little didn't matter. From now
on we'd just be sisters, sharing everything, like clothes and makeup and
stuff. "And from now on you are doing all my chores! I don't care what
Mom thinks or if she gets confused that you are being nice to me, Linda.
That is your problem."
She made me put on my bra and stand there in just the bra and panties.
"I love your heart necklace, Linda. And don't worry, I'll check each
night that you wear your pretty little nightgown, and that you use your
Secret deodorant in the morning. It is strong enough for a man, right?"
"Yes, Miss Elizabeth." She had me call her that over and over again.
"I still can't believe you cheated on your paper, but I am so glad you
did! Now, let's review your mantras."
"Miss Elizabeth, please let me put my clothes back on!" I was now
begging my sister. A new low for me.
She laughed, "Of course! I'm sorry. No no, not your stuff." She went out
to her room and came back, "I can't have you try on a dress until after
tomorrow. Karen wants that honor. But here... this is fun. One of my
favorite outfits!"
The top she handed me was white with huge pink and red flowers on it.
The pants were white. "Please, Miss Elizabeth, don't make me do this,
I'm really sorry!" She reached for the phone, "Okay okay!" Defeated.
"I'll do it."
She couldn't resist helping me dress, "This is from dELiAs, a girl's
favorite store!" It was a halter top, with solid binding and a tie at
the back and neck. "I know it doesn't cover your bra straps, but I
figured you want to show it off, Linda." The white pants were too short.
"They are floods, silly!" They had an odd Velcro fly and hook-and-bar
closure, which was strange. It was also a bit tight in the crotch, and
whenever I moved my midriff peeked out. "Hmm, I have to tell Karen to
get you some shoes."
She fussed with the outfit, and had me repeat to her how much I adored
it, and had me beg her to let me borrow it again. "Mom won't be home
until after dinner. She has a date, Linda, so it is microwave for us.
You can make it! But first, here." She clipped some chain bracelets on
me. "With a heart to match your necklace!" She then put some barrettes
in my hair with pink ribbons streaming down. "You may be a bit too old
for these, but you look so cute!!"
The whole night was like that. I had to serve dinner. I had to clean up.
I had to compliment her. I had to do the dishes. I had to wear a frilly
apron.
That night she wanted to look through my prom magazines. She was all
chatty and excited while she flipped through it. I had to listen, and to
make it worse, I had to paint her nails at the same time. She wanted to
make sure I understood what I'd be shopping for.
"You see, Linda, there are lots of different styles. If you have big
hips, and you do, you want a full-skirted ball gown. That might be good
for you! If your butt is too big, go for a strapless ball gown or a
dress with a draping bustle. Hmmm, no, I don't think strapless is for
you, sis! If you are slim, go for a sheath or A-line. That might work,
but you have a boyish shape. Empire-waist gowns and corset-style tops
are good if you need to flatten your stomach. Not a problem for you. If
your arms are too heavy...hmmm...that could be you also, Linda, though
you do have pretty arms! Anyway, go for short sleeves, off-the shoulder
necklines, or see-through lace sleeves with a sweetheart neckline to
show off your chest!"
She had me thrust out my chest and just laughed. She pointed out some
gowns from Loralie and Xcite prom. We cut some out. "We'll save these
for your prom scrapbook. Be sure to show them to Karen tomorrow, and ask
her if you can stop and pick up your scrap book too!!"
By the end of the evening I knew more about gowns than I ever wanted to
know. I was allowed to change before Mom got home (except for the
panties) and that night she made me wear the nightgown and checked in on
me. She gushed over it, wishing she had one so pretty! It was my first
dress-like garment. I hated it, and she wouldn't let up. "I love how
your hem has a little flounce in it! And it is so long and pretty, with
such cute flowers!!"
I didn't sleep well at all that night. I dreaded tomorrow.
Liz was on me first thing in the morning. She wanted to know how much I
loved sleeping in my nightgown, and was all excited about my shopping. I
quickly changed into my clothes (except for the damn panties as I knew
I'd be checked) and went to get breakfast. Mom was there. Liz kept
asking for things from me, like juice, cereal, whatever. I had to be
nice, and I was, and Mom complimented me on finally being nice to her.
"Karen must be a good influence on you. Ever since you've been dating
her you've been acting differently. You should have her over some time."
Lizzie just laughed. I told Mom, "Thanks...but she's really busy."
"Well, she's always welcome here. What are your plans?"
I told her I was hanging out with Karen. Liz had to add, "They are going
shopping together!"
Mom thought this was wonderful, as I rarely go shopping. She even gave
me money. For the next couple of hours I hid in my room trying to catch
up on homework, but it was hard to concentrate. Right before I was going
to leave, Lizzie barged in. "Hey, ever hear of knocking??" I was not
happy with her new superior attitude.
She waved it away, "I can come in anytime I want to, can't I, my dear
sister?" I hung my head and nodded. "Good. Anyway, you should thank me.
I'm going to help you get ready! Here." She thrust some more of her
clothes at me. It was jeans and a sweater. A girl's jeans and a girl's
sweater. "Here, you need your bra on if you are going gown shopping!"
She made me wear my white bra and panties, and I slipped on the jeans.
They looked normal, but fit funny. She noticed me looking, "Hey, don't
worry, only us girls will know that they aren't boy jeans! Don't you
like the slight flare at the calf though? Now put on your sweater!" It
was light blue. A guy might get away with the color, but not with the
three quarter sleeves and the v-neck, which, of course, made it so I
couldn't hide my locket.
"Miss Elizabeth, I can't go out in public like this!! And Mom will see,
and then I'll be totally dead!" She gave me a girl's belt - one of those
thick black ones with silver holes in it, and started to thread it.
"Karen wanted you looking presentable, but not too girly. However, she
said I can do what I want if you complain. Would you like some flower
capris, maybe? Or some ribbons for your hair?" I told her no. She put me
in front of the mirror, "See, unless you know to look, no one can see
your bra! What do you think?"
I didn't answer.
She just shook her head and left, then came quickly back. "Hold out your
wrist, Linda." She put a charm bracelet on my wrist! It not only had a
silver heart, but several very feminine charms dangling from it like
flowers and bows. My eyes widened at her. "Now Linda, try again. What do
you think of your outfit?" She crossed her arms over her chest.
"I....love it, Miss Elizabeth." I couldn't believe the things she was
making me say. The charms jangled whenever I moved my wrist. "You are
really kind to me. Thank you for letting me borrow your clothes and your
jewelry."
She hugged me, "You are welcome, Linda. What are sisters for? Oh, and
the bracelet, you can keep that. Consider it a gift." She paused,
waiting. "What do you say?"
I tried to be enthusiastic. "Thank you!"
"Hmm...clap your hands together, in front of your chest, like this. Now
say it."
"Thank you!" I clapped my hands girlishly. I wanted to slug her.
"Fingers straight!" I kept trying, over and over. "Now bounce a bit!
That's a girl!" She laughed and laughed. "When you see Karen, and she
gives you her purse, be sure to clap like that. I'll be checking! Now,
I'll go distract Mom and you can leave."
Her distraction worked, and I ran out of the house unseen, with my
bracelet jingling and my locket out for everyone to see. The jeans were
tight. I couldn't move very well, and my wallet made a huge bulge in my
back pocket. It didn't really fit, but I didn't care. I had to get away,
even though I'd be shopping for a gown soon.
I went straight to Karen's. Where else could I go? I rang her doorbell.
I was way too exposed outside. I just hoped that...crud. Her Mom
answered the door. "Oh, hi! Come on in, Linda." My jaw must have hit the
ground. I went inside quickly.
"Why... why did you ....you know?"
She smiled, "My daughter and I don't keep any secrets. Cheating was very
bad, Chuck. Besides, Karen has been so bored lately, and doing this to
you has really cheered her up! I didn't think she'd find a date for the
prom, but hey, at least with you I know she won't have to worry about
some sexist guy hurting her." She ruffled my hair, "You are letting your
hair grow, right?" I nodded. "She's upstairs. By the way, I love your
outfit!"
She wasn't going to get me out of this. At least she didn't add
anything. I went up to Karen's room. "Linda!! Wow, your sister really
did a great job. Do you like your outfit?" She smirked at me.
What could I do? I clapped my hands girlishly, "I love my outfit, Miss
Karen!!" and bounced up and down. My bracelet jangled.
"I'm sure you do! Well, we have a busy day today, finding you a prom
gown. But don't worry, if we don't find the perfect one today, we can
always go shopping again." She handed me a black shoulder bag this time,
"Hmmm, your wallet sticks out. Put it in the purse, and carry your
notebook. We'll get you a purse of your own today while we shop. Oh,
look inside and find a tube of lip gloss for me." I fished around for
it...what do women keep in here?...and found it. Petal-pink something. I
handed it to her.
She slowly applied it to her lips. It made them a bit glossy. "Now your
turn, Linda." I stepped back. "Oh, don't worry, it will make you feel
pretty. Pucker up. Now." Yet another step she took me down towards being
a girl. She applied the cream to my lips. It tasted a bit like bubble
gum, and now my lips were all shiny like hers.
"Okay, Linda, let's go!!" Her Mom drove us to the mall, and was amused
when Karen had me recite my mantras. Thanks to Liz, I knew them
perfectly, which made Karen very happy. As a reward she promised that I
could wear a tiara to the prom if it went with my outfit. Great. It was
even more humiliating to do it in front of her Mom, and being dressed
like this in front of someone who knows me.
The drive meant I avoided the embarrassment of getting there, but at the
mall, it was horrid. While most people just ignored me, enough did point
and say something, or whistle, which was worse. "See, Linda? Everyone
thinks you are pretty! Just wait until you get your hair styled!!" I was
almost relieved when we finally made it to Marshal Field's.
Almost.
Marshal Field's is a typical department store, on the level of Sears and
JC Penney. Huge make-up area in the front, and lots of women's fashions
nearby. There was a men's area, but we didn't go near that. We went
straight for the gowns. Since it was the season to shop for it, they had
a lot in stock.
It was early, so it wasn't that crowded. That also meant that the
salesgirls were kind of bored. Karen started looked at dresses and I
watched. She pulled out a light purple one and held it up to me. I
started to step back but she stopped me with a look. She had me hold it,
with the skirt out. That was when a salesgirl appeared, and asked in a
confused voice, "Can I help you?"
Karen was as helpful as usual, "Yes, my friend Linda needs a gown for
the prom. Can you help her?"
The salesgirl looked at me, "You're a guy, aren't you?"
I looked at Karen and knew what I had to say. So I turned back to the
salesgirl and said, "Yes, but I do want a gown. My name is..." I
couldn't help hesitating. I know I wasn't enthusiastic, but it was the
best I could do. "My name is Linda." The salesgirl covered her mouth,
but I could see her starting to laugh. Karen nudged me, so I continued
the mantra. "And I want to be a pretty prom princess."
Now she did laugh, "Nice. Princess Linda? Okay, Princess, a sale is a
sale. My name is Lori. What size are you, Princess?" I told her I had no
idea, but she wasn't going to let that stop her, "No problem. Here, put
that gown down, let me measure you." With her tape measure, she measured
my chest, waist, and hips. Lori fingered my bra straps and giggled. She
called off the measurements, and made suggestions for what dress size
would fit.
Karen decided to be helpful and made notes in my notebook, "That way
you'll know your measurements for the future."
Lori continued, "But remember, ah, Linda, dress sizes vary a lot, so you
really won't know if something fits unless you try it on. Unfortunately,
I can't let a guy do that here, so..."
Great!! Thank god! I was so relieved that I wouldn't actually be wearing
one, but then Karen took her to the side. I saw her hand Lori some money
and they both laughed. Lori came back to me, "Hey, I think I can make an
exception in your case. I really want to see how they look, don't you,
Princess?"
I wanted to run, "Yes, Lori. Thank you."
Lori asked Karen, "What kind of gown does she want?"
"Oh, something really feminine. Like a ballgown. Nothing but the best
for my Linda! Also, pastels would be good."
"Of course!! Okay...let's see." She looked a bunch of gowns and pulled
out a few. I was once again holding them in front of my body while they
commented on how this gown brought out the color of my eyes, or how that
gown would show off my bust. I was surprised at how heavy the gowns
were, and was dreading putting them on.
They finally picked three, without asking for my opinion, and Lori had
me carry them to the changing area. Karen said she'd wait outside for
me, but Lori said she'd help me change. "I wouldn't miss this for the
world!"
"Take of your clothes, Linda. I do love your jeans and top, perfect for
a girl like you, but this is better. Good, think you aren't a big girl
as that will make shopping easier." She hung up the gowns.
"Lori, please, look, I'll pay you more than Karen, just don't allow me
to try on stuff?"
She considered, then said, "Tell you what. You get dressed right away
without argument, and I won't tell her you tried to bribe me. How's
that?" I had no choice but t
knew what punishment would be next?
I quickly took off the sweater and jeans, standing there in the bra and
panties. "Ah, I have that same style. From Victoria's Secret, right?" I
nodded. That was just what I needed to hear, that we wear the same style
of underwear. She took the first gown, unzipped it and held it open.
"Come on, girl, I don't have all day!"
Like a man going to his execution, I stepped into the gown. She pulled
the gown up my body and slipped a strap over my head. She turned me
around and started to zip me into my satin prison. She turned me back
around, "Not bad! Wow! Let's go show Karen."
I had to grab the skirt since the hem reached the floor ("Heels will fix
that, Linda!"). I walked out into the main part of the changing room
with all the mirrors and saw myself. I almost fainted. I was wearing a
light gold brocade gown. The top, which I knew from my reading, was a
bodice, halter style, and therefore sleeveless. The skirt was very full,
and had a tulle overlay. I rustled girlishly with every step. Karen
laughed and clapped her hands. Lori started talking like a runway
announcer, "This is a very glamorous and sophisticated gown. Do you see
the soft floral pattern on the brocade fabric? The skirt needs a
crinoline, which we sell, and that will make it extra full and pretty.
He'll need, sorry! I mean, she'll need a drop waist strapless bra so
these don't show." She fingere