The Class Project - Chapter 14 free porn video

The Class Project by Janice Dreamer Chapter 14 "Merry Christmas, Sweets," Brad's voice called cheerfully into Robyn's ear. "Happy Christmas to you too, Brad," she quavered uncertainly into the phone. Jim was still standing where he'd been when Robyn left him to answer her cell. The look of hurt and frustration on his face sent a knife through her heart. "Where are you, Sweets? I tried calling your apartment but nobody answered." His voice carried an undertone of accusation, as if she should have checked with him before making a move. "Um... I'm staying with a friend," she said guiltily. No way would she tell him she was with Jim. "Oh? Who?" "Well... you don't know her. Her name's Megan. She's an old friend from high school," Robyn lied, crossing her fingers that Brad would buy it. Jim's look was wounded as she spoke the words. Sorry, she mouthed silently to him, feeling like a traitor. Then, with a helpless shrug of apology she slipped into the den where she wouldn't have to face him. "Ah, well I'm glad you're not alone for Christmas, Sweets," Brad's tone was once more jovial. "But I wish you were here, Switzerland is beautiful in the winter." And he actually did wish she were there; he wanted another turn at her tight little snatch, he thought. Switzerland was beautiful but his bedmates here were all so blas?; the sex was so mechanical, not at all like with dumb little Robyn. She was so na?ve yet so lush and so hot, which made her the most exciting piece of tail he'd had in years. He lowered his voice to a sexy growl and said, "We could snuggle together to keep warm and exchange gifts. I know I'd love unwrapping you for Christmas." Robyn felt the blush rising to her face. She was so confused! Just hearing Brad's lewd suggestions was making her all flustered. Yet, she could swear Jim had been about to kiss her and she had wanted him to - very much. How could she feel this way about two very different men? Jim was so kind and considerate and such a good friend and just now she'd felt something more than friendliness for him. But Brad was so confident, powerful and sexual. He had an effect on her that was almost frightening. Her nipples were engorged just hearing his voice. But hadn't she felt the same with Jim only seconds ago? "Are you there, Sweets?" Brad asked, startling her out of her thoughts. "I'm here, Brad," she whispered. God, even his voice was so sexy. "I've got a present for you. It's special, long and hard and aching to slip into your stocking. Do you have a special present all wrapped and pretty to give me when I get back?" She bit her lip, embarrassed by how aroused she was becoming at his rather corny innuendo. "Yes, Brad, and I can't wait to see you so I can give it to you." Man, she was sounding like a bubble headed little slut. She hated how he had that effect on her. "Good! I can't wait either," he said. "I'm going to rock your world." She swallowed nervously and said in a tiny voice, almost a whimper, "I... I miss you, Brad." She regretted the words and tone as soon as they left her lips. Damn! Why did she always say things to him that were just so needy and vulnerable, as if she'd do anything to earn his approval? "Well, just keep thinking of me, Sweets," he replied. His voice was practically dripping with superiority. "I'll be back after New Year's and we can celebrate together then. Bye for now." He hung up and she was left feeling empty and horny. She shivered and closed her eyes, thinking of the last time he'd made love to her and longing for the next time. She must be crazy thinking Jim would want to do that with her. He was her best friend. He knew she was a guy. This thing with Brad was pure fantasy - it was almost like a dream, totally unreal. She was a leaf carried along by the rushing torrent of his charisma and the pleasures he made her feel. But Jim? No, that would be different. He wouldn't face Robyn ever again once she changed back to a man if they... no, she just wouldn't go there. Ever. Sheepishly Robyn walked back into the living room to a stony-faced Jim. "Sorry, Jim." She lifted her shoulders in a helpless 'what can I do?' gesture. "Why'd you feel it necessary to lie to him?" Jim asked rather coldly. "You know how he is when it comes to you," she replied. She just didn't feel like dealing with Brad's hostility toward Jim. And she was equally reluctant to listen to Jim putting Brad down. "Come on, be the bigger guy. Let's not spoil our Christmas." Jim heaved a long suffering sigh and gave her a sideways grin. "Okay. It's Christmas and Bradley's in Europe so I guess that's something to celebrate." Robyn gave him a push to the shoulder and returned the grin. She was relieved they were back to their normal friendly relations. It was scary to think what they'd almost done. And a little disappointing that they'd been interrupted. But this teasing banter was familiar and comforting. She lowered her eyes and reached up to touch the butterfly hanging around her neck. "Jim... Thanks again. I love my necklace. Really, it's beautiful." Impulsively she stood on tiptoe and gave him a chaste kiss. Then, blushing furiously, she turned to go. "I'm going to see if your Mom needs any help in the kitchen." * * * * * "How do I look, Robyn?" Megan asked. "Awesome," Robyn said. "Absolutely awesome." Meg grinned showing her dimples. "You're pretty darn awesome yourself." It was three days after Christmas and the two girls were in Meg's room getting ready for the party. She'd been staying at Jim's house for almost two weeks now and had actually spent more time with Meg than Jim. She and Meg did things together that didn't interest Jim. They went shopping, watched teary romantic movies, and most of all, talked. Robyn found she enjoyed frivolous 'girl talk' much more than watching sports or playing video games which occupied much of Jim's time. She also kept in touch via cell phone almost daily with her other friends, something Bob had never felt the need for - the occasional email or IM online had been enough for him. In the time she'd been there she'd done lots of things with Jim's other family members too, even one evening of traditional caroling which Robyn really enjoyed, but she'd really formed a close friendship with Meg. Both girls were really looking forward to tonight, it had been their main topic of conversation for days. Megan was wearing her new midnight blue and silver cocktail dress with strappy silver heels. She had half a dozen silver bangle bracelets on her right wrist, a silver beaded necklace and silver dangly thread earrings. Robyn was wearing a strapless crimson satin minidress with subtle gold and black piping and a gold flecked fringed hem. She wore the butterfly pendant and the rest of her jewelry was all in gold and black. Both girls were putting the finishing touches on their makeup standing at Megan's full length mirror angling in to get a look at their reflections. Robyn was nearly a head shorter so she was in front and Meg was craning her neck to see over Robyn's shoulder. They were a perfect contrast between Robyn's bright red and blonde and Megan's deep blue and brunette. "Let's hit it then, girlfriend!" Robyn said. She handed Megan her purse and hooked arms with her. "Look out guys, here we come." Jim was waiting for them in the living room. He was looking very nice in khakis and a navy sport jacket with a blue striped oxford shirt open at the collar. He stood when he heard footsteps on the stairs and Robyn felt a flutter in her tummy as she noticed how the jacket seemed to enhance the line of his chest and shoulders. She felt strangely mesmerized and lingered at the top of the stairs, partially hidden behind Megan, and just stared. It was like she was seeing him for the first time. She'd had that feeling with him quite often lately; as if she were noticing fascinating aspects of her old friend that had been there all along. She gently laid her palm over the pendant that rested just below her collarbone and thought of how Jim called her a butterfly when he gave it to her. Megan continued down the stairs and pecked Jim on the cheek. "Don't you look handsome, brother!" she did a little twirl and asked, "Do you like my new dress?" Jim smiled and nodded. "You're beautiful, Meg. I think little sister's going to be quite popular tonight." Megan executed a curtsey. "Why thank you, Jimmy. Coming from you that's quite a compliment. But this is nothing, wait till you see Robyn." Jim's interest was clearly written on his face. "Where is she, anyway?" Meg turned around saying, "Huh? She was right behind me..." Robyn blinked; hearing them talk about her broke the spell she'd come under. "I'm coming," she called out. She stepped down to the landing and paused. She grinned devilishly and blew a little wolf whistle. "You sure clean up nice, Harper!" Robyn teased with one eyebrow raised. Oh God! Am I flirting with Jim? What's happening to me? She thought ruefully. Jim blushed bright red and cleared his throat. He tried to hide it but he was quite obviously thrilled with Robyn's compliment. Robyn slowly descended and stopped at the bottom step. She stood straight with one hand clutching her evening bag and the other resting gently on the banister. Jim's jaw literally hung open as he took in the sight of her. Robyn nervously shifted from one leg to the other. She realized Jim had never seen her dressed so extremely feminine before. Sure he'd seen her in her Peepers uniform but that was almost a parody of femininity. Tonight she was softly elegant and demure. Was he just totally freaked out by her appearance? She wished he'd just say something. Megan noticed his frozen stare and discretely dug an elbow in his ribs to snap him out of it. Jim swallowed convulsively and pulled a handkerchief out of his pocket to mop his brow. Finally he spoke in an awed tone. "Robyn? Wow... I... I... don't know what to say..." Robyn felt her heart plummet to her stomach. She thought she looked pretty good - great even. But it must be too much for her friend to see his formerly male best friend all glammed up. She dropped her gaze and muttered, "I guess I'll go change." When Robyn turned to go back upstairs Jim rushed forward and gently took her upper arm, turning her back to face him. "No don't. I mean... don't change. You're beautiful. Absolutely beautiful." He reached out and gently lifted the butterfly pendant away from her skin with two fingers. "A beautiful, wonderful butterfly. I meant every word when I gave this to you. Please don't change." He mentally added 'back. Please don't change back.' Robyn realized she was trembling. Being this close to Jim never had this effect before. She smiled tremulously. Her eyes felt dangerously watery. Suddenly Megan was at her side. She plucked the handkerchief out of Jim's hand and dabbed at the corners of Robyn's eyes. Robyn sniffled and Megan put the handkerchief in her hand and guided it up to her nose. "Stop it!" Megan said with mock sternness. "Stop it this minute. You're not ruining that makeup we just spent the last hour on." She glanced from Robyn to her brother and back again. "Now get yourselves together. We're going now and we're going to have fun. That's an order. Understand?" Both Robyn and Jim broke out in grins and nodded. Megan sighed and said, "That's better. Now get your coats. And be quick about it." Sheesh, she thought, these two have it bad. There was so much tension in the air you could cut it with a knife. She wished she knew the full story. Obviously something was keeping them apart. She'd heard mention that Robyn had a boyfriend. Well for their sake she hoped they worked things out as they obviously both wanted each other. She genuinely liked Robyn and could easily envision their friendship growing and lasting. Her brother was completely over the moon for her. Maybe she could help the course of true love. * * * * * They entered the restaurant with a blast of frigid air. Robyn and Megan shivered as they checked their coats, both hoping it was considerably warmer inside than here at the entryway. There was a long table set up in a side room for their party. When the hostess ushered them over Robyn noted with satisfaction the reactions of Megan's friends who were already seated. She held back slightly and let Megan bask in her moment of glory. "Megan? Is that *you*?" "Wow! Did Oprah surprise you with a makeover or what?" "Hey Babe what are you doing after?" "If I'm dreaming don't wake me up." Megan grinned and hugged several of her friends as they rose to greet her. "You all know my brother Jimmy, I believe. And this is our friend Robyn." She gestured for them to come forward. "She's staying with us for the holidays. I asked them to come along - the more the merrier, right?" Megan's male friends made a big show of welcoming Robyn effusively. The girls in the group were more reserved and appraising but were outwardly friendly. Both men and women were less than enthused about Jim joining the party. Robyn smiled at the group but bit back on a comment when she heard a couple of the guys greeting Jim. "Hey, it's Slim Jim. How you doing? Haven't seen you since high school." "Sure I remember Slim Jim." Robyn bristled when she heard the snide tone several used when referring to Jim. Jim and Bob hadn't traveled in the same circles as Megan. They were nerds, plain and simple. Even though Meg was smart, bookish and dressed like a bag lady, she was always part of one of the cooler cliques in school. As they made their way towards some empty seats at the table she overheard a plump brunette whisper to another girl, "Why'd Meg bring that nerd? I know he's her brother and all but gah - what a geek." Robyn remembered her from middle school. She'd been a nasty stuck up princess then and apparently age hadn't improved her. Throughout the meal all the men worked to catch Meg and Robyn's attention. But they weren't buying. Meg flirted indiscriminately, dividing her charms among everyone while not showing anyone any special interest. Meanwhile Robyn concentrated on Jim, diverting all attempts at conversation into a compliment or anecdote about him. She doted on him like a smitten girlfriend -- these 'cool kids' would be impressed by the girl Jim had at his side. All the while she kept her eyes and ears open for derogatory comments about her friend. She was developing a close friendship with Megan and most of her friends were really nice. But a few of these people were just like those who'd tormented both Jim and Bob all through school. She had no compunction against cutting them down to size if they dared insult her friend. Once the meal was over they all drifted into the bar where a DJ was playing country music. When the waitress brought their drinks Robyn took a sip of the Jack and water she'd ordered and nearly gagged. Jim noted her reaction and asked if she was okay. "Yuck! Something's wrong with this drink." she whispered. Jim took a sip then a bigger one and said it tasted okay to him. She took another tiny sip and shuddered. She didn't remember bourbon tasting so horribly vile - in fact she used to like the taste. "Oh I can't drink this." She leaned over to peer at Megan's drink. "What's that?" "Fuzzy navel. You want to try it?" Robyn took a sip and tasted peachy orangey sweetness. This was good. None of that sharp alcohol taste. She waved to the waitress to bring her one and slid the nasty bourbon over to Jim. Two fuzzy navels later and Robyn was feeling great. She was swaying to the music in her seat and really getting into the butt kicking beat. She'd mostly been conversing with Jim and some of the nicer revelers. And all too often she had to fend off the advances of a steady stream of guys who approached her. Meanwhile, Megan was the belle of the ball as everyone vied for her attention. She dropped over to their table off and on to chatter for a few minutes but was soon back out on the dance floor. Robyn watched her friend enjoying herself and grew more and more restless. When a Gretchen Wilson song started up she couldn't stay in her seat. She popped up and grabbed Jim's hand. "Let's dance!" Jim made no move to stand up. He just looked up at her and joked, "You've never seen me dance. Trust me, it's not pretty." Robyn pulled on his arm but she might as well have been tugging on an oak tree for all she budged him. "Come on Jim! Please? I can't just sit here." Reluctantly Jim rose to his feet and gave her a sideways grin. "Okay, but you better watch your feet. This could be tragic." Robyn stuck her tongue out at him and gyrated her hips in a sexy little figure eight to the beat of the music. She ran her eyes suggestively up and down the long length of his body and teased, "You watch mine and I'll watch yours." Jim's face flamed as he felt his arousal instantly flaring. He averted his gaze from Robyn's sexy body and mumbled, "Okay, let's dance." He gently laid his hand on Robyn's back and guided her over to the dance floor. When they hit the floor Robyn let her body feel the music and just cut loose. She shamelessly swayed her hips and shimmied her breasts to the beat of the music. Jim could only awkwardly shuffle his feet and snap his fingers as he stared in a combination of awe and lust at Robyn's nubile body moving around him. Each brazen advance Robyn made was met by clumsy shyness. Robyn interpreted Jim's behavior as rejection. She thought he was repelled by the knowledge that she used to be male. Normally she would have backed down in the face of his indifference but with the alcohol holding her inhibitions at bay she regarded it as a challenge and only grew more wanton. Jim was conflicted. Part of him wanted to take this wondrous creature before him and ravish her, indulge his lustful desires in her. But a much larger part of him was falling in love with her and wanted to cherish her. He was fearful that Robyn was moving too fast and would ultimately reject any advances from her boyhood friend. How could they have any kind of a romantic relationship if he was a constant reminder of who she used to be? And of course there was also the problem of that bastard Brad. All these thoughts distracted Jim, making him seem even more distant. They danced several fast upbeat songs and then a slow romantic ballad started up. Robyn smiled sexily and stepped very close to Jim, looking up at him expectantly. Jim could practically feel the warmth radiating off her soft full breasts as they hovered barely an inch away from his chest. Her perfume wafted up to him stirring his lustful thoughts. He almost gave in but nobility won out. After a moment's hesitation he shook his head and said, "I need a break. Let's sit this one out." Robyn's happy glowing face immediately fell - it broke his heart to see. Without waiting for her reply he resolutely took her shoulders and turned her toward their table. With gentle firmness he steered her back to their seats. Once they were seated Robyn turned to him with a pout. "Party pooper," she said, "you're no fun at all." She felt rejected and hurt. Was it so impossible for Jim to overcome their history as male buddies and just be comfortable with her as she was now? Could their friendship endure? The thought of losing him as a friend frightened her to the core. Jim heaved a sigh then smiled wryly and said, "I need a drink." He drained what was left in his glass in one swallow and signaled their waitress for refills. Megan walked over from the dance floor fanning herself theatrically with both hands. She was flushed with excitement. "Whew! These guys are trying to wear me out." She held back further pleasantries when she sensed the tension at the table. She glanced from Robyn to Jim and raised a questioning eyebrow. Robyn abruptly stood and said, "I think I need to check my makeup." "Coming," Meg said. "We'll be right back, Jimmy. Don't drink the bar dry while we're gone now." Inside the ladies' room Megan asked, "So what's up? You look like a kicked puppy. We're supposed to be having fun, remember?" Robyn sighed. "Your brother is one tough nut to crack." "Oh? Why do you say that?" Megan asked, feigning ignorance of the little mating dance she'd been watching between these two for the last week. "All I want is to have some fun and he..." Robyn tried to calmly explain the situation but she felt a lump in her throat and drew in a long ragged breath. "It's just... I've never... I mean I haven't been to a lot of parties... and... Jim... he..." she was losing control and stamped her foot in frustration. She would *not* allow herself to cry. She took a calming breath and continued in a rush, "He acts like he'll catch fire if he so much as touches me." She paused, her face twisted up woefully. When she continued her voice was tremulous. "Am I that much of a freak?" She looked up at Meg for explanation, her chin quivering ever so slightly and her eyes burning with unshed tears. Megan enfolded Robyn in her arms, gently pressing her cheek to the smaller woman's soft golden hair. What did she mean calling herself a freak? This girl was the most *un*freaky person she'd ever met; she was smart, caring, sassy, funny and gorgeous. And her connection to Jimmy was unmistakable; something between them was causing her to doubt herself. She'd grown close to Robyn in a short period - their personalities just meshed perfectly - she wanted to help her new friend, and playing matchmaker for her brother was a bonus. "There, there sweetie," she crooned softly into Robyn's ear. "Deep breaths. That's it." Robyn pulled back from Meg's embrace, drawing cleansing breaths deeply into her lungs. Suddenly she hiccoughed, surprising herself and giggled in nervous reaction. "Feeling a little better?" Meg asked solicitously. Robyn nodded and dropped her gaze self consciously. "Good. Now listen to sister Meg, Honey. You are so not a freak. Why in the world would you think a thing like that?" Robyn shrugged. What could she say that Megan would believe? Everything was so complicated. She wished she could just tell her the truth. "I... I lost a lot of weight recently... I guess I still feel like a lonely fat chick," Robyn said eventually, thinking the half truth was about as logical an explanation as she could come up with. "Jim and I have been really close friends but now... I think I kind of freak him out. I think he still sees me as I was and can't ever accept me as I am." "Ah. I think I understand. Well, I have an idea that might get a rise out of him..." * * * * * When their waitress arrived with drinks Jim gulped his down and ordered a double before she finished clearing away the empties. He felt the warmth of the bourbon down to his toes. Damn, he thought, why did he have to act like such a total jerk around Robyn? He seemed to have a knack for screwing things up with her. He pounded himself on the forehead with his fist muttering, "Stupid, stupid, stupid." Robyn and Megan returned. They were leaning against each other, talking in hushed tones and giggling. For the millionth time, Jim wondered what exactly women did when they went to the restroom together. The waitress arrived with Jim's refill and Robyn said, "Oooh! I need another too!" She glanced at Megan, who nodded, and made a gesture to the girl to bring them both fresh drinks. "Did you miss us?" Robyn placed a hand casually on Jim's knee and smiled widely. Jim's face flared bright red and he felt as if his flesh burnt under her hand. He forced a smile and nodded, making a grab for his drink and drained it in one swallow. He raised his glass toward the waitress and choked out, "Refill?" The waitress's eyes widened but she smiled and said, "Sure." She collected the empties and was gone. "Better watch yourself, Jimmy. I don't think Robyn and I can carry you." Jim cocked his head in challenge. "I'm okay." Like a six year old defying authority he called to the waitress, "Make it a double, and keep them coming!" Megan and Robyn exchanged glances and both just shook their heads. One of Megan's friends, Michael, approached just then and leaned down to Robyn. He'd already watched her shoot down a dozen others and she seemed awfully tight with Meg's nerdy brother, but he'd drunk enough liquid courage to have a 'what the heck' attitude. This chick was so hot he couldn't go all night without at least giving it a shot. "Dance?" he pitched his voice above the music. Robyn looked up at him. She appeared on the brink of rejection then seemed to change her mind and cut her eyes to Megan. Meg was nodding emphatically and cocked her head toward Jim who sat stonily looking at the table. "Sure." She patted Jim's knee and added, "You don't mind, do you Jim? You don't much like dancing anyway." Without waiting for a response Robyn stood and allowed Michael to lead her off to the dance floor. Jim stared morosely at her departing back. "What the hell is wrong with you, big brother? You're mooning over her like a love sick puppy but you let a jerk like Mikey take her away." "I'm not mooning," Jim turned to Megan. He shrugged and added, "Besides, she's not interested in me. She'd never be interested in me." "She is so obviously into you it's not even funny. Open your eyes, Jimmy." Jim just stared down at his hands as he shredded a napkin. The waitress returned with his refill and he gulped it down immediately. His mind was swimming with all the alcohol he'd bolted in such a short time. Megan thought Robyn was into him? She simply didn't understand how not possible that was. Finally he said the only thing he could think of, "It's complicated. You wouldn't understand. Just trust me when I say she'd never be interested in me as anything except a friend." "You don't know that. You'll never know that unless you try." Meg pointed across the dance floor where Robyn was letting Michael lead her slowly around. "You think she wanted to dance with him? She's only doing it to make you jealous. Go over there and dance with her you big jerk." Jim sulked a moment, soaking in her words. Then he looked where Meg pointed at Robyn in another guy's arms. He was *always* looking at Robyn with another guy. He was drunk enough to throw caution to the winds. He slammed his hand down on the table and said, "Yeah! I'll do it." Unsteadily Jim rose and shambled over to where Robyn and Michael were. Emboldened by alcohol he roughly tapped Michael on the shoulder. "Dude. Take a hike." Michael stopped and turned to face Jim. He nearly refused but he remembered how the hot little blonde had been hanging on Jim all night long. Realization dawned on him and he looked from Jim to Robyn angrily, feeling like a pawn in a lover's quarrel. Robyn shrugged apologetically and mouthed "sorry" and he stalked off to nurse his rejection with a beer. "C'mere you," Jim held his hand out for Robyn and they drew closer. Toby Keith's 'You Shouldn't Kiss Me Like This' started playing and he grinned lopsidedly. How appropriate, he thought. "This should be our song, Robyn." She looked up at him, uncertain where he was going with this. He was acting all weird now. Kind of nasty and confrontational. She knew he'd had a lot to drink, probably too much. Maybe Meg's idea to make him jealous wasn't the smartest thing to try when he was in this condition. "What do you mean, Jim?" "Cause. Lissen to th' words." Jim leaned a bit away from her and waved his right hand like a bandleader conducting the music. "You go acting all girly girly and I get ideas. I think y'mean it like that, as ol' Toby sings. But we're just frens', y'know? Jus' friends is okay. I can un'erstan' that." His expression turned wistful then quickly switched to a nasty sneer. "But then Braaaaaadly whistles and you... you go... you go... Shit!" His rant was cut off as he stumbled. Robyn tried to support him but he was nearly twice her weight. She felt herself going down with him and could do absolutely nothing to stop it. They landed in a heap in the middle of the dance floor. Jim was on top of Robyn and she distinctly felt his erection pressed against her. She was totally shocked; it never occurred to her that he might be aroused by her. She gasped and blushed bright crimson. He looked into her eyes and smiled ruefully, even in his drunken stupor he realized that his secret was out. "Sorry," he mumbled. "I... I din' mean..." "It's okay," she said softly. She tried to push him up off her but lacked the strength. His hard penis stabbed into her hip like a spear. It was impossible to ignore. She bit her lip, and told herself it was the alcohol controlling him now. Several couples dancing nearby stopped to check out the commotion. Jim was boosted to his feet by two guys. One of them steadied him while the other offered his hand to help Robyn up. She stood and flashed him a smile of thanks, then discovered she'd broken a heel. Damn, she thought, these were new shoes, too. She pulled her shoes off and held them dangling from her left index finger by their straps. Her mind was awhirl with all Jim had said. What were the implications to their friendship? "You okay, Robyn?" Megan asked as she arrived at her side. "Yeah." Robyn ran her free hand through her hair, pushing it back out of her face. She looked at Jim who was swaying unsteadily with his face downcast. He was red-faced and mumbling "Sorry, sorry," over and over. "Come on, big brother," Megan said. She took him by the upper arm and turned him toward their table. "I think that's enough dancing for one night. Let's see if they have any coffee." Robyn helped support him on the opposite side and the two girls managed to get him off the dance floor and sitting down. They ordered coffee and kept a watchful eye on him as he slumped over the table with his head in his hands. "How much did he have to drink?" Megan asked. "I don't know. A lot." Robyn held her hands up and shrugged. "He was chugging them down as fast as the waitress could bring 'em." "I know. I saw." Megan shook her head. "I've never known him to drink like this before." "Neither have I." Robyn dropped her gaze, feeling guilty. "I think I'm the reason. I'm sorry, Meg, I didn't mean for this to happen." Megan reached across Jim's sprawled body to touch Robyn's shoulder gently. "It's not your fault. He's a big boy. And we did warn him to slow down." The coffee arrived but they couldn't get Jim to drink any. He pushed it away and spilled it across the table. They apologized as they helped the waitress clean up the mess. Megan asked her if she'd call a cab for them. "Let's see if we can get him home," Megan said. She turned to two of the more sober men in their party. "Come on guys, give us a hand here." Two of Megan's friends got him to his feet and helped him out to the curb where they poured him into the waiting taxi. The girls thanked them and turned to get into the cab. Robyn heard them talking just before she slid into the back seat. "Always thought Slim Jim was a stiff but he's really turned into a party animal." "Yeah, the dude was righteously pounding them down. And what a hot chick he's hooked up with." * * * * * They managed to get him into the house and flopped down on his bed. Robyn pulled his shoes and sox off and was pondering whether to attempt to take his shirt and pants off when he suddenly reared up in bed. "Oh God!" he moaned and bolted toward the door. He ricocheted off the wall a couple times but managed to get to the bathroom in time. The girls heard the distinct sounds of vomiting. Robyn hurried to the bathroom and knelt down beside Jim. He was slumped miserably over the toilet waiting for the next spasm. She rubbed his back and kneaded his shoulders. He heaved again and she winced in sympathy. She nearly gagged at the sour smell in the air and quickly flushed the toilet. Megan stood in the doorway and wrinkled her nose. "Is he okay?" "He will be. Go on and get some sleep. I've got him." Megan hesitated. "You sure, Robyn?" "I'm sure." She nodded her head determinedly. "He'll be okay once his stomach's empty. I can manage." "Okay... but if you need help, I'm right down the hall." "Thanks, Meg." Megan rushed forward and leaned down to give Robyn a quick hug. "You really care for him. Thank you." Robyn smiled ruefully. "Yes I do. I just wish he could..." she sighed and tossed her head. "Go on now. No sense both of us losing sleep." Just then Jim spasmed convulsively and threw up once more. Robyn patted his back and stroked his head. Megan backed out and gently pulled the door closed behind her. Robyn left Jim's side momentarily to get a washcloth soaked in cold water which she used to wipe his face and mouth. >From outside the door Robyn heard Rita's hushed voice, "Megan? What's going on?" "It's okay, Mom. Go back to bed." "But I heard..." "Jimmy ate something that didn't agree with him. But it's okay, Robyn's got him." "Hmmmph. Ate something? More like drank something." "Mom. Please?" "Well, I don't want the twins wakened." "It's okay, they can sleep through anything. Let's go to bed." The voices faded down the hall. Jim heaved again. Robyn knelt by his side and cleaned him up after each expulsion. He moaned occasionally and lolled his head from side to side. His eyes didn't quite track and he simply wallowed in his misery, hugging the toilet. Eventually he seemed to recognize Robyn as she wiped his mouth. "Oh God," he moaned. Shamefaced, he mumbled, "Robyn... 'm so sorry." "It's okay." She pushed his hair back off his forehead. "Feeling better now?" He nodded and swallowed, making a face. "I think so." She got him a glass of water and held it to his lips. "Don't drink any. Just swish it around to rinse out the taste." Jim complied and spit into the toilet. "Need to sleep. I'm so tired." He pushed himself up and swayed precariously back and forth. Robyn quickly stood and put her arm around his waist to steady him. She managed to get him back to his room and seated on his bed. He started to flop back on the mattress but she held on to his arm and kept him upright. "Let's get you out of these clothes first big guy," she said, trying to sound bright and encouraging. He smiled dreamily and parroted, "Out of these clothes..." She unbuttoned his shirt and got it off him. Then she reached for his belt and fumbled with the buckle. "No!" Jim seemed to suddenly be galvanized. His belt was open and Robyn was working on his zipper. He desperately groped at his midsection. Finally he captured her hands and held them away from his crotch. He swallowed and his head lolled but he managed to steady himself and look into her eyes. "No, I'm okay now, Robyn. Go to bed." Robyn's eyes stung. She was hurt, thinking that Jim couldn't stand her touch. She bit her lip and said quietly, "Okay. Night, Jim." She rose to leave, then paused at the door and turned back to look at him. She could barely believe her eyes, especially considering how severely drunk Jim was. But the last thing she saw before pulling the door closed was a huge bulge in his pants as he flopped back on the bed and closed his eyes. * * * * * "Meg?" Robyn tapped at the bedroom door. She heard a grunt and opened the door a crack, peeking inside. "You awake?" Megan rolled over in bed and looked up at her friend. "I am now." "Sorry. I... I... just wondered if you'd give me a lift to the bus station." Megan sat up and looked sadly at Robyn. The girl looked like hell. She obviously hadn't slept a wink. It was only seven in the morning. "Oh Robyn. You sure?" Robyn nodded and bit her lip. "Yeah. Jim's still sleeping. He'll have a bad head when he wakes. He... he doesn't need me around to remind him of last night. It's... it's best if I just go now. He'd just be embarrassed if I was here. Things will be back to normal when the spring semester starts up. Hopefully." Megan looked uncertain but Robyn's mind was made up. She nodded and slipped from bed to get dressed. Rita was surprised she was leaving so suddenly when Robyn thanked her for her hospitality and said her goodbyes. She wondered what had happened but refrained from asking the girl for explanations. She told her she was welcome back anytime and meant it sincerely; she thought the girl was very nice. Megan chimed in that she could come to visit her with or without Jim. Meg waited at the bus station with Robyn until they announced her departure. They said very little. There was an air of despair between them but neither girl wanted to talk about it just then. Finally Robyn was ready to board and Megan gave her new friend a hug and wished her the best. Robyn settled into her seat and slumped down morosely. She was miserable. Finally alone she gave in to her depression. Her mind kept going over and over the previous evening. Jim would never, never accept her as a woman. If she couldn't change back to Bob she would surely lose him as a friend. She would lose her best friend in the whole world. "Is this seat taken?" A good looking, young, athletic guy grinned down at her. Robyn quickly scanned the bus. There were plenty of empty seats, why did this guy want to sit next to her? She looked back at him and saw his smile widen hopefully. Of course. He was hoping to score with her. She shrugged her shoulders noncommittally. He threw his backpack into the overhead rack and plopped down beside her. He flashed a bright smile. "I'm Bill." "Hi." She rudely turned her face to the window and stared outside, willing him to shut up. But he was persistent. "So, where you headin'?" It was going to be a long trip. * * * * * To be continued...