Signal Three-Three-Five
(Fire is out-Returning to quarters)
By: Lorraine B.
© 2006 Lorraine Bank
The red and black paint of the all the apparatus shone, the chrome
twinkled in the dimly lighted firehouse. The lights and sirens were
silent on the emergency trucks. The ready deck was quiet as most of the
fire companies' personnel were in bed, with the exception for a few
watching television or playing cards. It was their turn to unwind from
the day of fighting the red, white and orange flames of the fires they
had fought during their shift of twenty-four hours. Suddenly the lights
went from dim to bright. A siren went off over the speakers!
In seconds a blaring voice came from the speakers saying, "District
chief 1, Battalion 3, Battalion 4, Engines 01, 04, 05, 12; Ladder Truck
20, Truck 23, Tower 2, special alarm Level 3, Haz-Mat 223, ambulance 43,
57, 12, 23 Alarm box at Sterling chemicals pharmaceuticals office and
warehouse, 4716 Clearing Way, cross street Lincoln, fire is fully
involved, confirmed by Wet Risers activation of Fire Alarm."
The firehouse appeared to be in organized chaos as men and women slid
down the brass pole from the sleeping area to the firehouse ready deck.
They all jumped into their boots, pulled up the turnout gear pants and
suspenders. They all grabbed their coats and helmets running to their
trucks. In mere seconds the trucks thundered from the fire station, they
were rolling as their sirens wailed their mournful song into the night.
Their lights cut into the darkness with their eerie flashes of red,
green, blue, yellow and white light.
The fire apparatus converged on the building as the flames sped and grew
in intensity as it ate everything in its path.
Chapter Two
Lieutenant Robert (Robbie) O'Shea of Engine O1 was busy on the radio
while his Engineer Firefighter Mike Farrell who drove the large pumper
apparatus. In the back jump seats sat Anne Morgan, Brad O'Connell and
me, Paul Wallace the former probationary firefighter of the station.
While the Engine sped down the streets I took stock of my young life. I
was just over twenty-one, unmarried, with barely meeting the height and
weight requirements of the department. I'm the third generation
firefighter along with my Dad and a brother at another firehouse and
ladder truck company.
I studied hard at the academy, suffered harder with the physical
training and graduated first in my class. On graduation I was assigned
to my current fire station as a reward for my endeavors. Basically the
house was quiet, one of the few in the city, on average we responded to
three or four calls a day per 24 hours. Most of the fires were struck
out in an hour with very little happening or we went out to assist the
ambulances stationed with us as a first responder. It was a chance for
us to study, do our chores maintaining our equipment from washing the
apparatus, checking hoses, and to refilling air bottles among other
tasks. I was pleased to be a part of this company even though the
ribbing I received was good-natured and a part of the Probie
indoctrination learning process.
Checking over my personal equipment I was in hyper drive as we traveled
the streets to the fire. It was a big one to warrant a 2-11 with a
special alarm call. I was ready for this, as I fidgeted in the cab jump
seat. The Loo broke away from the radio and went on the intercom saying,
"Okay everyone, we go in the back door use a two and one half inch hose
with a fog applicator on the nozzle. Mike watch the pressure, Paul
you're on the nozzle and Brad follow Paul as tender and ready hose two
incase. I'll open the door with the Hooligan tool, Anne hose two, all of
you be careful inside."
"Loo, there are catwalks in back, along the sides and tanks all over on
the floor. I just did a walk through at the plant with the fire
prevention people," Anne said with Mike adding, "Yeah and those are open
tanks and the catwalks might be corroded."
"Save the property but maintain your own safety, watch each other's
asses and listen to the radios that you all carry. Anne on feed hose,
125 psi tonight Mike, and Air tanks are to be used people." The Loo said
as I felt the apparatus slowing down. Anne was out the door and so was I
as we rolled to a stop.
I grabbed the line from the hose bed along with a fogging nozzle and
pulled it all toward the door. At the door we put on our air masks, the
hose was charged, and the Loo was opening the door for me. I went in low
with the hose as the smoke escaped out of the door.
Visibility was next to zero as I made my way along the catwalk. I
thanked the Loo silently for making us wear the air tanks, although the
added weight was a killer on the back. From what I could see there
wasn't any fire but the smoke was sure as hell was thick, but there was
heat and plenty of it.
I heard the saws cutting the roof and saw the sparks fall from the roof
when I felt the warmth intensify. That was when I saw the flame licking
the firewall that I assumed was the office area. I pulled more hose and
adjusted the nozzle to a spray that helped control the flames as it
licked at the painted wall.
Visibility was increased as the ventilation holes were cut in the roof;
the smoke was rising when it happened...I heard a structural groan and
the catwalk swayed. I dropped the hose as the lieutenant told us all to
run. I was perhaps fifty feet from the door we entered, when the catwalk
collapsed.
I clawed for the metal on the catwalk, as it broke loose from the
concrete wall. Then I had the sensation of flying as I went down. I
tensed my body expecting to land on the concrete floor but instead
landed in liquid with a splash, ripping the facemask from my face and me
swallowing the liquid while my helmet was lost. Whatever I landed in was
not acidic or caustic, thank heavens, it was cool and a blessed relief
from the heat, yet tasted terrible. I heard the yells as I found out the
tank I fell in was not very big but impossible for me to get out of due
to the smooth stainless steel walls and my equipment.
Several times I tried to get out of the tank until I took off the air
bottle and dropped it over the edge. I heard the sound as it hit the
floor judging the distance of twenty plus feet to the floor. Managing to
get a leg over the side of the tank I heard the voices yelling at me to
stay put and I did.
Blinded by the lanterns that illuminated me at first, I fell back into
the tank swallowing more of the retched chemicals, wishing it were a
beer vat I fell into instead of this vat of crap.
Chapter Three
I was cold after awhile, even though I was wearing all the turnout gear
and sweats. Several times my booted feet wanted to pull me down into the
liquid to possibly drown and I grabbed to the side of the tank harder. I
heard the echoes of the voices, as they prepared to get me out of the
tank, and then finally two people grabbed my arm. They slipped a harness
over me and hauled me out into the waiting arms of Anne and the
Lieutenant with the Loo saying, "Damn you stink! Just relax Probie."
"Yeah Loo, I love you too!" I said smiling as they placed me onto a
Stokes stretcher as a precaution. I had to admit it, I smelled really
bad after I got a whiff of myself and felt my boots draining the liquid.
After a wash down of icy water, I was carried virtually naked on the
stretcher by several firefighters to a waiting ambulance, where the
paramedics took over. They checked me over for broken bones, which I was
fortunate not to have. I was sore, tired and wet, yet laid still when I
was informed that I was indeed lucky not to have hit the sides of the
vat, still the taste of those chemicals where noticeable, even after I
vomited several times. I wanted something to drink badly but was told no
as whatever I drank might cause an adverse reaction to the chemicals I
ingested. I was alert, tired, nauseous and still stunk to high heaven as
the ambulance rolled on, to the hospital.
After about a five-minute ride I was rolled into the ER, assessed, lab
tests, radiology films and taken back to the exam room where my Mom and
Dad greeted me.
Mom had the worried look that mothers and wives had after seeing their
loved ones injured. Dad had the look of pride that I did well in
surviving my trial by the Monster.
Dad was the first to speak saying, "We're proud of you son. The Chief
says you'll be okay after the swimming lesson."
"Swimming lesson, hell Dad, I learned to fly. Nothing at the academy
prepared me for what I went through," I said and smiled.
Mom wiped a tear from her eye and smiled at me saying, "For eighteen
years I worried about your father, then your brother and now you..."
"Joyce, the boy's okay, stop the gloom and doom crap. Robbie is still
trying to find out exactly what was in that tank..."
"Mom, I'm fine, so far but that cocktail I swallowed was the pits."
"I can imagine, since it was a pharmaceutical company vat that saved
your life." Dad added briskly with Mom agreeing by saying, "Your Dad and
I stress, it saved your life."
After several more hours and visits by the hierarchy of the bosses, from
the crew of my Engine, to the District Chief. I was released to go home,
at my insistence, to my townhouse. Yes I said to my townhouse and the
privacy it afforded me.
On the way home in Dad's car, I read the aftercare sheets noticing I was
on medical leave for two weeks and to be assessed by the department
surgeon after that. I found out it was normal procedure after getting
hurt on the job.
One further item was that Robbie found out the vat I fell into contained
a coating for animal feed that was used to increase milk production in
cows. I silently prayed I wouldn't grow udders and give milk after all
of that crap I swallowed. I told Dad and Mom my thoughts making them
both laugh on the ride home.
Opening the door to the townhouse I was greeted by the friendly confines
of home, with Dad saying he'd get my gear at the station and Mom wanting
to make me comfortable. All I wanted was a shower and to relax without
anyone around to console me.
Managing to shower after Dad dragged Mom from the townhouse I was still
sore, but the stink of what was in those tanks was still with me. I
dressed in sweat pants and t-shirt and lie down upon the bed and fell
asleep almost immediately.
My dreams came fast and furious with me married and with kids. The thing
that struck me was, I was the Mommy. I still fought fires but I had
taken a great deal of shit from the guys in my new status, being a woman
and all. The worst thing was my husband was a firefighter and I had a
great deal of sex with him. I awoke frazzled to the point of reaching
inside my pants to feel my manhood. Once I felt I was intact I sighed
with relief and decided all I had was a bad dream.
Getting from the bed I made something to eat when the telephone rang. On
answering it I heard a soft feminine voice say, "Hey cutie, I heard
about the tank and your swim in it from your Mom." I recognized the
voice immediately as Roxanne Fennelly my best fried from my childhood to
adulthood.
"Hey Roxie, I'm doing fine but damn my dreams are strange," I said as I
told her about them as I ate.
As I told her she was laughing hysterically with her saying, "Oh Darling
you in a mini... I can't wait after all the shit you've given me over
the years...my time of the month was when you really got my ire up."
"I know, but you're so damn cute when you're pissed..." I said when she
interrupted me and said she was on her way over and we could talk. I
didn't even get to say goodbye when she hung up. I finished eating and
cleaned up when the doorbell rang.
On opening the door Roxie blew inside almost knocking me over with her
arms loaded down with bags of groceries and with a smile on her face
saying, "I brought you groceries, now tell me everything."
While we unpacked the bags and put the groceries away I told her more
about my dreams, when she commented how bad I stunk. She ran from the
house mumbling something about getting something else from the store.
I was sitting in my chair when she returned and ran to the upstairs
bathroom. I heard the bath running when she came back and pulled me
towards the bath.
On entering I smelled the floral fragrances with her telling me to strip
and get into the tub. Roxie was a woman that was strong willed and got
her way, so I did as she said. The water was hot, smelled overly
feminine, but felt good as I sat in the tub. There was no embarrassment
as I went into the water with Roxie being there. We both have seen each
other's bodies over the years, so we were more like brother and sister.
Beginning to relax as I slid into the water with Roxie washing my hair
and scrubbing my back, this I liked, and what was more, I guess I wished
for a good woman like Roxie. As I lay in the tub as we spoke about
various things when I noticed hair floating in the water, lifting my arm
I looked at my skin with no hair. I was in a panic thinking the hair on
my head was next.
Roxie saw the panic in my eyes as I searched everywhere saying, "That
was some depilatory Paul. I want some for my next shower."
"That was not funny Roxie, thankfully it happened at home and I'm off
for two weeks, so it can grow back."
"Maybe those dreams were telling you something..."
"Yeah, like bullshit... Sorry but I don't believe in that prophecy
crap."
"Slow down Bub, I was only kidding." Roxie said giggling at me, leaving
me alone.
Damnit I was pissed in her referral about the dream being prophetic in
nature but then I saw how stupid it was to be angry with anyone, when
Roxie got me thinking. How was it that my body hair was now gone but the
hair on my head was still there? Would I grow breasts and lose my penis?
I was scared, really scared. I cried softly with my head into my hands
bringing Roxie back into the bathroom with her saying, "Sweetie, I
really don't know what to say except I'm here for you as I've always
been."
"That's just it, I know about you but what if..."
"I imagine if I wasn't a girl I'd think the same way as you're thinking.
Dry your eyes get dressed in PJs and you rest for a while, I'll come
back later," Roxie said with me agreeing with her as she left me alone.
Slipping on a pair of boxers and t-shirt once I entered the bedroom. I
heard the door open and close with Roxie leaving. I climbed into bed and
fell asleep almost immediately.
More dreams came to me with the first, being that I went out on the town
with Roxie. I wore a sequined three piece skirt suit of black, black
stockings and black strappy sandals with silver jewelry of hoop
earrings, choker, chain bracelet, watch and a silver anklet. Damn I
looked good with my hair up in a chignon and dressed as I was. What the
hell was I saying?
Startled, I awoke to checking myself out. Inventory was complete and I
was satisfied, everything that I was supposed to have was in the right
place. After my inventory was taken I noticed I was a bit smaller
however I was still intact. My nipples hurt in conjunction with my chest
being swollen giving me breast definition.
Getting up from the bed, I did my morning workout and went to the
bathroom. I took a shower and was refreshed noticing that the stink was
nearly gone. Except for my dreams I slept soundly and now I was ready
for the day ahead of me. Still I wondered how I would look as a woman;
maybe I'd ask Mom or Roxie since I never held anything hidden from them.
Doing my domestic chores around the house for the next few hours it was
then when Mom came over after driving my SUV and Dad following her.
While we sat having coffee I spoke to Mom about my dreams while Dad was
in the bathroom. It was an opportunity to finally speak to her
privately. After I unloaded what the dreams were about she laughed
lightheartedly saying, "Darling, I never dreamed of you dressing up as a
girl."
"Me neither Mom, but these dreams just don't stop at the dressing part
they show me having a family and having sex with a man. They were so
erotic, so lifelike, they'd put porno films to shame. Am I normal or
have I gone off the deep end?"
"Sweetie there are men that dress as women and others that have surgery
to correct a mistake from birth."
"I know all that Mom, yet even as a kid I never had the inclination to
wear your clothes, yet now these dreams have me scared, they're like
premonitions of what's to come in my future. First it was my hair, and
then the dreams, now places on my body are changing."
"They should have kept you in the hospital...."
"I have a doctor's appointment in two weeks for the department's
surgeon, if it gets really bad I can go to Doctor Bayer. Besides I
prefer that I go to him and not the department doctors, at least my job
won't be in jeopardy."
"I know how hard you worked to get this job but if there is a change
people will notice, especially in a fire house." Mom still said saying
that I was worried about nothing that I had dreams and nothing more
would come of them.
Chapter Four
On passing the physical to go back to work after two weeks of lying
around the house, doing nothing, I saw disturbing changes in my body
each day to the point of seeing Doctor Bayer secretly and getting
referred to see a psychiatrist, Doctor Sims.
Doctor Bayer did more tests and Doctor Sims was a godsend to help keep
my sanity. Before I went to them I was getting depressed due to the
bodily changes such as hips widening, breasts forming, no body hair and
skin softening. My dreams or nightmares were coming true, so far.
Fortunately the working uniform was relaxed in the station with t-
shirts, work pants and sweats at night or gym shorts. I worked hard
during the day keeping the Engine going and did maintenance around the
firehouse making the chief and Robbie happy but they had no idea what
changes were occurring. I thank the Lord that I had some modicum of
privacy in the firehouse especially in the shower.
Nearing the twelfth week since the accident at the fire I saw the
changes gradually occur that became more prominent. I became withdrawn
as an effect and was called into the office by the Captain and Robbie.
"Paul, are you happy here?" Robbie asked.
"Sure Loo, its just I have some problems since that accident, I don't
want a transfer," I said
"Look here kid, we're a team, I need my number one hose man on the ball
not with his head up his ass. Anytime we go out on a call anyone of us
could be hurt or killed and you have a promising career in the
department ahead of you. Maybe a deputy Chief or Chief is in the cards
for you but we want you happy." Robbie said solemnly with me going into
detail about the doctors I was seeing and what changes had occurred to
me.
The Captain took out his logbook and read the chemical composition of
the vat I fell into saying, "That was one hell of a cocktail you fell
into Paul. I can see why you're depressed and the secrecy, yet we have
to let headquarters, the city attorney and the department surgeon know.
As for worrying about your job status, I'd say don't worry..."
"Cap, I haven't even told my Dad what I told you, yet I know you won't
screw me. Grandpa and Dad say you're a fair guy..."
"Hell I play golf every week with that sonofabitching grandfather of
yours and he always wins. We promise that what we said stays here but
downtown has to know about your problems. We want you to stay here"
"But Dad has ears everywhere he..."
"I'll speak directly to the Chief, the City Attorney and the surgeon
with no memos. Robbie put the kid back to work..." The Captain was
saying when the siren sounded and our truck responded to a medical call
as First Responders. I ran from the office and put on my turnout gear
and was on the truck just as we began to roll to the call.
Reflecting upon the discussion as the truck sped down the streets when
we slowed down. We all leaped from the cab when we stopped and retrieved
the medical bags from the compartments at the side of the Engine.
In seconds we were in a park where a child had fallen while playing and
was unconscious. Our hearts went out to the little boy that laid on the
grass, so young and so fragile. He was perhaps seven years old and had
fallen off a park bench and hit his brown head of hair on the pavement
knocking him out. There were copious amounts of blood but the wound was
minor that we stemmed after the initial assessment. Robbie was calming
the mother as we worked on her child that was when I realized how
trivial my problems were. The Black Cloud of the depression I had
dissipated and released me when I touched the child. This was what it
was about, saving people and property, putting your butt on the line for
those that need help.
I felt pretty good when the child awoke, looked up and saw us helping
him. This was what it was about; this person waking up was not about me.
I could do this job no matter what sex I was. I was trained to be an
Emergency Medical Technician and Firefighter and that was what I was.
When the ambulance arrived we turned the boy and mother over to them
while we prepared to go back to our stationhouse to await the next call
from someone needing our help.
On our return to the stationhouse, Anne and I were given the task of
readying the pumper for the next run. We checked each compartment of the
truck ensuring that we carried the necessary equipment to save a life. I
was bent over a storage box when I heard Anne do a quick intake of
breath and then say, "Paul, what's the matter with you? I mean today was
the first time I saw the old Paul back since you returned."
"I guess I was caught up in my own sorrow until we helped out that kid,"
I said with her saying, "That kid will be okay but I was near the
Captain's office when they were speaking to you, I heard it all."
"Aren't you upset? I mean I wasn't born..."
"Female, hell no, to be honest I wish there were more women on the
department. Besides now I have someone to talk to about other things,
you know feminine things," Anne said smiling as we checked over the
hoses on their bed.
It was true about the woman part due to the fact that each shift had
between one and five women per firehouse, assigned to various apparatus
and ambulances.
"Anne all I ask is that the house doesn't have to know yet, my life is
hell now but these guys can make life miserable to the ex-Probie. I just
don't want to find a dildo in my locker."
"Yeah I guess so and yet it would be hilarious..."
The siren went off saying, "Engine 01 assist the PD for a possible DB
removal at 4313 Lincoln, and be advised the PD Beat sergeant is
enroute."
I just made it to the truck and closed the door when we were speeding
toward the address. On arrival at the scene two members of the PD
greeted us when we stopped and the Loo went to speak to them and then
they all came to us with the Loo saying, "We need to get in and see, the
neighbor hasn't seen the owner of the house in four days and has a
medical history of heart failure. The house has metal doors and burglar
bars on all the ground floor windows.
"Paul and Anne take a ladder and try to open a window, also take air
tanks as a just in case."
I grabbed a small pry bar, slung my air tank onto my back and helped
Anne with hers. We then grabbed the ladder from the truck and went
toward the house, laid the ladder against the house and I started to
climb the rungs.
In seconds I was near a window and slipped the pry bar between the
window sashes. A flick of the wrist and I popped the lock and raised the
window. As soon as I opened the window a terrible smell came from the
house and the smell of natural gas. Calling down to Robbie I had him
shut off the Gas main at the meter. Putting on the air mask I climbed
through the window and was in the house. It was silent with the only
sounds I heard were the creaking of the floorboards were we walked.
There was enough light in the house as I made my way downstairs.
The house inside from appearances was very neat and tidy. Walking as
fast as I could I made it to the front door and opened it, thusly
allowing Robbie, Mike, Brad and Anne, to place fans in the house to draw
out the fumes. I noticed that a hose was ready and charged, just in
case. Once the windows were opened and the fans in place we made a
search for anyone in the structure.
We found the elderly owner, who was deceased, in the bedroom upon the
bed. The body was in a state of decomposition and the Beat Sergeant
called for the coroner, there was noting more we could do, it was sad
that a life was extinguished. We gathered and stowed our equipment after
the body was removed while the police secured the scene then we headed
back to the firehouse.
Once we secured our truck, laid out our gear and went to eat. The entire
house was there as we walked into the dining room. It was a first that
none of us were called out on a call. We all ate, helped clean up and
went our ways. Some of the firefighters watched TV while I went upstairs
to the bunking area to get my books and study. Since the showers were
empty later, I took a shower noticing how my body was changing further.
All I could do was come close to tears seeing my manliness disappear to
be replaced by womanhood. I dried off, put on my sweat suit and went to
my bed to read. If there was a call tonight I was ready. I managed to
read for several hours until I fell asleep. The next thing I knew it was
morning.
I stripped and made the bunk for the next shift going downstairs to get
coffee and bakery goods. After a quick cleaning of the firehouse we were
ready to leave when the next shift came in at seven o'clock.
Our shift was released after the next shift arrived and I hurried to my
SUV.
Chapter Five
Once on the street I headed directly to Doctor Sims' office on my day
off. I had an appointment that I had to keep. Traffic was light as I
made my way to the office. In minutes I was parking and walked inside
the building. While walking I noticed how beautiful the morning was with
the clear, blue sky and the temperature in the 60's. Damnit, it was good
to be alive!
Walking through the building I finally entered a non-descript door and
was greeted by the receptionist. I sat in the waiting room when Doctor
Sims called me into his office. I walked into the office where he shook
my hand and I was seated. Doctor Sims was a massive man of over six foot
but he was kind and gentile.
"So how are you doing today?" doctor Sims asked me.
"Still somewhat depressed, they know everything at work and said I
shouldn't worry about keeping my job," I said as I crossed my legs and
got comfortable.
"Are you handling the depression?"
"Sure but I can't understand, you know, the why me syndrome."
"That I can't answer, there are medical complications, I'm here with you
to help you overcome the depression and I hope to get you on with your
life."
We spoke of the dreams I had and about the confrontation I had with
Robbie and the Captain. I explained that what I found out was that I
still had my job and career. I also spoke of the child and mother that
we helped and my conclusion that my job was to help people above all
else. The session ended with me feeling a whole great deal better. I
walked from the office to my SUV with my head held up.
I got into the SUV and went over to the hospital and parked. I walked
into the doctor's office area directly to Dr. Beyer's office where his
nurse greeted me. I was led into an exam room and removed all my clothes
putting on a gown. By this time I already had my vitals taken and waited
for the doctor.
Doctor Bayer arrived and we spoke a bit then I was measured and blood
was taken. I was amazed that when he measured my chest how large my
breasts actually were and how tender they felt. It had been almost two
months since falling into that vat and the bodily changes were very
noticeable.
After a few vials of blood were taken, I was given a shot of female
hormones and a script for pills to relieve the pain I had. I really
wasn't too happy about the meds but I knew that eventually my body would
change and with the hormone treatments I'd suffer less mentally and
physically as the changes progressed.
The next thing was to start buying different clothes of the female
persuasion and getting used to them. More than anything I needed bras
and if I started wearing a bra I might as well start dressing as a young
woman. My hair was already growing longer so the next thing was to get
it styled.
Leaving the doctor's office I called Roxie and Mom on my cell phone and
they recommended a hair salon. I headed over to the address they gave me
with them meeting me there. Parking the SUV in front of the salon I saw
Roxie and Mom waiting for me. I went into the salon with them and was
handed over to the stylist and given the works. Several hours later I
had everything done that they could possibly do to a female human being
from hair to nails to getting my ears pierced. I was happy that the
stylist refrained from asking personal questions but I fell asleep in
the chair and got the surprise of my life. My brown hair was razor cut
into a feathered shag, colored with blond streaks, my nails were done
both hands and feet in a frosted red. The frosting on the cake was the
makeup. I woke up after it was all applied then I got a shock as my ears
were pierced. If I was asleep I sure woke up fast. I was about to say
something nasty when Mom dragged me from the chair and out the door
while Roxie paid the bill.
Outside I was pissed when Mom said, "Be quiet Paula you're making a
scene. Next you're going shopping, so hush up."
"Damnit Mom, I have to go to work, how in the hell can I go as I am?"
"Just wait, we cleaned out all your clothes yesterday to Goodwill, your
father helped. We decided the time has come sweetheart after all these
months to embrace the new you."
Oh crap! He knows?"
"Yep, he already spoke to Downtown," Mom said with the day getting black
for me.
Things became blacker when the rest of the day was spent shopping for
clothes, women's clothes, for me. Those two hit the stores like a
hurricane and I was in the undertow from the tidal surges. Finally the
shopping was over with all three vehicles full of bags and packages.
Never was I so glad to get home after parking my SUV into the garage. I
turned off the ignition and sighed after I saw all the bags I had to
drag inside. To me it felt like everyone was interfering in my life, I
am an adult Damnit! Close to tears I hurriedly emptied the SUV placing
everything in a pile in the living room.
Going into the kitchen I grabbed a soda and sat down at the table. I
heard Mom and Roxie start taking the packages upstairs. I sat there
stewing in my anger until Mom came downstairs with Roxie saying,
"Everything is put away dear."
"Mom I'm a grown...whatever...anyway, I'll never live this day down at
the firehouse."
"They know dear and so do the other houses they were told at muster and
you are not a whatever."
"Oh crap! Now I'm really in for it! Those guys at the house will give me
grief."
"They were all told to keep their mouths shut and remember what has
happened to you could have happened to any one of them. The city and the
chemical company are worried about a lawsuit from you. The Chief paid
for all your new clothes and anything you need by order of the mayor and
the legal consul," Mom said.
"Great, bribes to keep me quiet, what about the chemical firm?"
"They were brewing that stuff for export and had no idea what the
effects would be on humans. That firm will pay the city back for what we
spent."
"Bullshit! They knew!"
"Yeah, but this stuff was for export, you fell into a concentrated vat
of the stuff." Roxie said with me saying, "The way the doctor put it, is
this stuff works that it'll rewrite my DNA until my body starts to
adapt, which it's doing now. That chemical cocktail just isn't safe,
anywhere!"
We sat at the table; I enjoyed the company of Mom and Roxie more and
more. It was the first time they openly verbalized matters that normally
were kept hidden from the men folk.
After we finished our drinks I was coaxed to go upstairs with Mom and
Roxie. I was amazed at the amount of things that were bought as they
showed me everything. I had a rough idea that several thousand dollars
were spent. My closet and dressers were full of feminine finery, the
bath was loaded with cosmetics and I was ready to run. Mom made me
change my clothes into new undies, black nylon panties, black sports
bra, jeans, sweat shirt and white sneakers for around the house. I
wasn't too happy but I complied and the results were, I didn't recognize
myself when I looked into the mirror. Mom collected my other clothes
that I wore and bagged them up.
"The pronoun he, just doesn't fit you now Paula, I'm jealous, you're
cute!" Roxie said with Mom agreeing with her.
Still I was aghast when Mom suggested dinner out, now I was petrified
with fear. I looked at her wide-eyed saying, "Dinner! Out! Like in a
dress and heels? No way!"
"I think you'd look lovely besides all your other clothes are gone so a
dress and heels would be appropriate," Mom said with Roxie agreeing.
I was trapped for the evening unless I could backpedal, yet knowing Mom
that was not going to be the case. I capitulated to Mom's desires when
Roxie said she'd stay and help me dress. Thank goodness Mom left us and
went home.
I was infuriated and told Roxie what I thought when she said, "Tough
Paula, you're going! I have to go home and get clothes for tonight and
you, I suggest resting a bit."
"Damnit to hell, you're as bad as Mom," I said smiling as she left the
room. I heard the door close and I kept looking in the mirror. I had to
admit I didn't recognize myself. I sat onto the floor and crossed my
legs feeling the sports bra and panties on my body. I was confused by
the tightness of the bra at first but at least there was no wiggle and
jiggling. Inhaling in and out I began to try some relaxation techniques
and I was that way for almost an hour. I had managed to clear my mind
of any and all thoughts when I heard the front door open and close.
I wasn't worried about an unwelcome visitor until I heard footfalls on
the stairs. As I heard the footfalls they sounded heavy and I was about
to run and hide when the bedroom door open, Dad and my brother, Tim,
came into the room with Dad smiling and saying, "Hey Paula, your mother
told me about dinner, Tim was over and I invited him to go with us."
"I heard I upset downtown Dad?"
"You did, but that's too bad, that stuff they were brewing should not
have been cooking in the city limits."
"You're kind of taking all this well, aren't you?"
"It's better then hearing the bagpiper pipe Amazing Grace at your
funeral," Tim said.
"I agree with Tim, the red monster cost me a son but a daughter is just
as good. I have both of you and that still counts. To be honest your
mother always wanted a girl to spoil. Me, I just wanted you two to be
healthy when you were born. Your mother and I were a little shocked when
Pauli decided to join the department; you did and did the family proud
by not washing out."
"Thanks Dad, Thanks Tim, I just know gramps was involved too, I love the
job that I do and the guys in the firehouse are great."
"Just remember that things have changed, there might be some resentment,
yet what happened to you could happen to any one of us."
Roxie returned and we both undressed together after getting my father
and brother from the bedroom. We heard them both leave as I started the
bath. I climbed into the scented waters and relaxed while I heard Roxie
bustling around the room.
As I relaxed I thought about the day and everything that was involved,
all of the shopping, the salon and how my Dad and brother treated me.
Further relaxing in the hot, Lilac scented water, my fears about
societal rejection vaporized as long as I had my family and close
friends near me. Hell, I even had the politicians on my side. Of course
they were all worried about the lawsuits that could float their way. I
thought of the medical and psychiatric care I was getting these past few
months and thought of how skillful it was.
While the water was now cool I drained the bathtub with me standing and
getting out of the water. I dried off, wrapped myself in a towel and
went into the bedroom.
Everything was laid out upon the bed by Roxie and Roxie ran into the
bathroom. I heard her draw the water as I gazed over everything from
lingerie to the shoes that lay on the floor. I was in turmoil at first
thinking that it was wrong for me to get dressed as a female. Then it
dawned on me, I was turning into a female and getting dressed in female
clothes was normal. Still I stared at the clothes, afraid to even touch
them.
Roxie came out from the bathroom seeing that I was in distress saying,
"They don't bite! Besides you can't run around with a towel draping
you."
"I never thought about wearing these clothes, now I have to do so and I
can't do it."
"Sure you can, because you don't have anything else to wear that fits
you. Sweetie that body of yours is changing and you need to go out with
us." Roxie said as she picked up the lingerie and handed it to me.
Staring down at the frillys I held in my hands when Roxie pulled my
towel away saying, "Now you have nothing to hide behind so get dressed."
Slowly I pulled on the panties that were made of a see through red lace.
Next was a red-laced underwire bra with a front closure. I adjusted my
boobs into the cups and looked into the mirror on the door seeing a
younger version of my mother standing in her frillys. Making progress I
was shown how to put on pantyhose by Roxie. With each garment there was
a shockwave of new feelings I never had before and the pantyhose woke up
those feelings making Roxie smile her known feelings.
Once the pantyhose were on I stepped into a lacey red half-slip, a red
leather knee length skirt and next was a white sleeveless shell. I put
on the black calf length boots with a three-inch heel and zipped them
up. Looking into the mirror I was amazed how well I looked, but Damnit
my senses were in overload. I looked over my shoulder to see Roxie was
smiling at me as she to, was getting dressed.
Roxie redid my makeup and tidied my hair and I slipped on the red
leather blazer that belonged to the skirt. On the bed was a matching
shoulder purse and wallet that I transferred the contents of my wallet
to.
We all went out that night to a restaurant that Dad and Mom had picked
out. After overcoming my fears I began to relax and enjoyed the meal and
even went to the ladies room with Mom and Roxie. I had to admit that the
night flew by with us turning quite a few male heads.
Chapter Six
Arriving home that night I was exhilarated that I made women envious and
men lust for me. Roxie and I spoke together in the Living room about a
great deal of things when I offered her the use of the spare bedroom for
the night, which she took me up on the offer. It was way past midnight
as we sat talking, thank goodness for being off forty-eight hours and on
duty for twenty-four hours. We finally changed for bed and went to
sleep.
I awoke at five AM just as I normally did. I did my exercises, took a
shower, and got dressed into a clean pair of sweats and sneakers. Next I
was in the kitchen preparing breakfast of a Spanish omelet and English
muffins. I ate and cleaned up the kitchen when Roxie came downstairs.
While she ate I talked to her over the coffee.
My main concern was back in the firehouse and how I was going to be
treated. I was worried that I would be an open target to bigotry that
even the union and the department couldn't stop. I loved my chosen
career and I loved helping people so the match was good. Dad had said
yesterday that I was protected by downtown, but that said I wasn't
protected out of the firehouse. All I could do was to face my fears
tomorrow at the station and remind those detractors that what happened
to me could have happened to them. However I was afraid, very afraid.
In order to alleviate those fears Roxie had me do my domestic chores to
keep busy. From laundry to dusting, in no time I was done and we were
relaxing. It was then I let all my fears out and my feelings about
becoming female.
As I spoke I was becoming distraught and incoherent as the tears flowed
heavily. Roxie drew me toward her and held my quivering body. I had the
self-pity blues along with the why me questions. I was a decent person
that dedicated my young life to serving the citizens of the city I
worked in. I would give my life up to protect them and their property.
It was a fluke that I fell into that tank filled with that genetic
altering soup. Yet if that tank wasn't there when I fell I would have
been dead or crippled for life. At least I was alive and well, just
slightly modified but the same person inside.
Composing myself I apologized to Roxie for my self-deprecating display
of emotion when there was a knock on the door. I quickly got up from the
couch and opened the door seeing Anne Morgan.
"The hair style fits you Paula, may I please come in?" Anne said smiling
with me allowing her inside. I went and prepared coffee while Anne took
a seat after I introduced Roxie and Anne to each other with Anne saying,
"I came over to tell you the station is on your side, you proved
yourself as a more than capable EMT/firefighter. I heard the message
from downtown before I left and the other shifts all agree with the
bosses."
"That's good to hear, I was worried about..."
"Paula was crying about being accepted back at the fire house." Roxie
said with Anne saying, "I guess you were worried huh, anyway, no one is
threatened by you and they all realized it could have very well happened
to them."
"I guess it could have, though I never thought about it that way. Still
there are a few guys that talk and that's all they do is talk. Ignore
any comments that you hear that are derogatory, like I do, Robbie will
handle them. Don't be ashamed of your body and from what I can see I'm
envious" Anne said as I blushed at her words saying, "Yeah but it's hell
going through puberty again and the Docs say I might even get a period,
gee PMS too," I said making the girls laugh as I went to get the coffee.
"There's only between five and ten percent women in the department now
with more coming and we all worked hard to get the respect we have now.
Just do your job and make all of the girls proud of you."
Handing out the steaming mugs of brew I said, "That's easier said then
done, you've been girls all of your lives and I'm becoming one at the
ripe old age of twenty-one."
"So what? You'll learn just as Anne and I did, though some things come
naturally you'll have lots of help between your mother and me."
"And all the girls in the station will help and if necessary protect our
little sister. You can count on me there, just follow the department
regulations for women and make sure you have the right working uniforms
tomorrow," Anne said smiling and took a sip of her coffee.
"I have sweat suits but the work pants and shirts are very tight and the
shoes are too big," I said with Roxie saying, "You haven't looked in
your closet? Your Mom had your Dad get some new working uniforms for
you, work boots too and turnout gear when we went shopping."
Inwardly I smiled, I was amazed at how Mom really works at this
revelation, having Dad get everything that I needed with her
supervising. I bet the turnout gear was already in my locker at the fire
station.
Having to work the next shift, Anne, Roxie and I called it a night after
the three of us broached every subject from sex to men. After they left
I was alone and prepared for bed.
For the second night in a row I wore a nightgown letting my smallish
breasts rest in the laced cups. I felt the nylon skirted hem around my
ankles and the coolness of the material on my body causing a sensory
overload. In seconds after I hit the pillow I was asleep.
Chapter Seven
The next morning I was awakened by the alarm clock at five AM. I climbed
out of bed and went to the bathroom, did my morning ritual and took a
shower.
After the shower I powdered and put on clean dark blue panties and a
dark blue sports bra. Compared to my former tight underwear these were
very comfortable. Next were socks, pants, shirt after I placed the badge
and collar devices onto the shirt. I blow dried and styled my hair and
slipped into my shoes and was ready for duty.
Looking in the mirror you could see the rounding of my breasts even with
the loose fitting shirt. The pants fit in the waist, hips, thighs and
butt and was I ever happy for this. Even the shoes were comfortable even
if they were a woman's size seven and a half, black duty shoes. Without
makeup I was a man's wet dream, so I was pleased with the effect.
Going downstairs I had a cup of coffee, I was out of the door and at the
station in ten minutes. I did my equipment checks when Robbie saw me and
smiled along with the rest of the crews when they saw me.
Checking over the air tanks the klaxon went off with the dispatcher
saying, "Engine 01, Ambulance 43, woman down, 1303 Bradley Street cross
street Madison. This was called in by a child" I dropped everything and
got into my turnout gear just as all of our crew did. Once inside the
cab of the apparatus we started to move. The siren wailed its urgent
song as we sped to the scene of a woman that was unconscious in the
house. In minutes we arrived at the scene. Brad was the paramedic/
firefighter that went to the woman first while we grabbed the medical
equipment. The measurement of time is imperative when a life is at
stake.
On entering the house a woman was on the floor that was in her mid or
early twenties. Brad did an assessment of the woman's vitals while Anne
and Robbie gave her Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation when I heard the
cries of a child nearby being held back by an adult neighbor.
I went to the child and found out the woman lying on the ground was her
mother, Lisa Jones was her name, and she was five years old. She had
called the emergency into the operator and called the neighbor. Lisa was
cute having long curly blond hair, blue eyes, a button nose and very
intelligent. I stayed with the child as the team worked on the mother
when the ambulance came.
I could see on the faces of the team the patient was deceased but due to
the law she had to be transported to the hospital and declared dead on
arrival by a physician. The gurney was brought over to the patient and
the body was placed on it as it cooled.
While the crew worked on the mother, I had found out that the child and
mother lived by themselves in the house and that they had no relatives.
Without relatives the child would be placed into foster care, which I
wasn't about to let that happen.
I called Mom on my cellphone and told her about Lisa and her mother, she
nearly cried. She would meet the child at the hospital and then call
Child Services after she got the child at my home and relaxed, for some
unknown reason my heart went out to the child and I felt I was
responsible for her. I felt as if I needed to protect the little girl
and that was what I was about to do.
As the mother was placed into the ambulance I spotted a police officer
and walked over to him with Lisa. I asked that the officer take the
child to the hospital and wait until my mother arrived and then give the
child over to her. She in turn would contact Child Services and make
further arrangements for Lisa. The cop readily agreed and took Lisa into
her car as the child cried and yelled she wanted her mother or me to
come too. I was heartbroken as I heard the child wail.
While we put our equipment away the ambulance silently pulled away from
the curb with the squad car following silently. With the Engine
equipment replaced we climbed back into the apparatus and returned to
quarters.
On our return I explained to the crew that I was worried about the child
and made arrangements with my mother to take care of the little girl. I
was pleased that they all agreed with my decision.
We went back to work checking over the equipment as soon as we arrived
back at the station. Before we knew it, it was lunchtime and I was
famished, Lunch was firehouse chili my favorite. The topic of
conversation was the run we went on and what I did for Lisa. I caught
all types of gentile humored flak but it was worth it just to see a
child not getting lost in the system.
Anne, Robbie, Brad, Mike and I helped clean up the kitchen and dining
area, as it was our turn. I could tell they all wanted to say something
to me but weren't about to bring up the subject.
"Okay spit it out," I said with Robbie saying, "Okay kid, you did
alright with the child. You showed everyone in the station, on the
shift, you haven't changed."
"Loo, I just had to call Mom about the kid. Besides she's now an orphan
I guess, unless we can find a next of kin. The kid made me feel as if I
was needed."
"That's the mothering instinct kicking in Paula." Brad said winking with
Mike agreeing with him.
"See Lisa, there she is," Mom said as she came into the kitchen with
Lisa.
I kneeled down and held my arms open with Lisa running into them with
Mom saying, "She cried for you to be with her."
"Does she know about her mother?" I said as I hugged Lisa to my breast
with the crew smiling.
"Death is kind of a hard thing to explain to a child, especially about a
mother," Mom said with me saying, "I guess so Mom, what about Child
Services? Do they know?"
"Yes and all of the foster homes are full. They did assign a caseworker,
a Nancy Pickett, she asked for us to take care of Lisa. Do you want the
job?"
"I... I... Yes Mom, but I also have to work..."
"I know so I'll help out on the days you work and so will your father,
brother and granddad."
"Are you going to be my Mommy, my other Mommy isn't coming home," Lisa
asked with me looking at everyone saying, "But I'm not..."
"Answer the child Mommy," Mike said smiling with the Loo saying, "I know
what you're going to say and the answer is yes and the station will help
all of you since over fifty percent of us are single or divorced, I
kinda like the idea of being an uncle."
"Mommy? What is this mo...? What about relatives? I mean..."
"I dug around and I spoke to the bank that held the mortgage they said
there are no relatives and Charlotte was a single mother with the Dad
being deceased," Mom said with Anne saying, "She deserves a break in her
short life."
"Mom get the attorney and start the paperwork before the state steps in,
okay," I said as I hugged Lisa and she in turn hugged me back.
In my heart I wanted to do things right for this child, what I mean is
the poor baby needs love and I wanted to give her that and anything else
she needed. Thanks to Lisa and Mom I forgot about what was happening to
me along with all the self-pity I had acquired since the accident.
The entire firehouse heard what was happening and were congregated near
the lounge. When I hugged the baby everyone applauded and then I said,
"I guess that means you're a grandmother Mom."
"I have a grandma; I never had a grandma before," Lisa said brightly
with me saying, "You sure do, along with a ton of aunties and uncles
from here."
"Yep, you sure do sweetie and a new Mom to take care of you but always
remember your first Mom," Robbie said with a tear in his eye.
Since every word I said the fire station heard, I made it known I was
going to make the funeral arrangements for Lisa's mother on my day off.
I had Mom take Lisa home and I had to promise Lisa I'd phone her later
before I left the station.
Chapter Eight
After several more runs I called Mom just before dinner. My thoughts
were that taking a child into my home was a big change that Mom helped
me with. Dad was the first to spoil Lisa by buying her dolls and stuffed
animals and Uncle Tim was no better. It was described in great detail
what Grandpa and Uncle Tim bought Lisa by Mom. I spoke to Lisa and
promised her I'd come and get her after work, apparently she loved her
new grandparents.
Heading off to the showers I met Anne and told her what had happened she
giggled and said, "Smart little girl, she can already twist men around
her finger."
"I guess so, but Dad was always a pushover especially when Mom was
concerned."
"What's fun about being a woman is the manipulation part with men. Lisa
has to learn when to use it and when not to."
I found myself agreeing with Anne as I started to undress and hit the
shower. While I stripped off my clothes I thought and I just hoped my
family didn't go overboard by giving Lisa everything she wanted. Knowing
my Dad he bought the toys because he wanted to do so.
Anne and I walked into the shower room together when I pulled my t-shirt
and bra off. I do know she noticed my ever-increasing breast and hips
however she didn't realize how well developed I really was. I heard the
sharp intake of her breath with her saying, "You're more developed then
we all thought dear, you'd better stay close to all the girls."
"Really! To think I only thought my love handles moved to my chest," I
said facetiously with Anne saying, "Honey wait until a man grabs those
things on your chest; they will be love handles then." I hate to say it
but we both giggled knowing that what Anne said was true.
We took our showers, got dressed in sweats and headed off toward the
lounge area to relax. I called Mom on my cellphone to check on Lisa when
I found out she had fallen asleep. I was also told that a caseworker
from Child Services was coming to speak to me and fill out some forms.
I was engaged in a conversation with several other firefighters when a
lady about 5'9" with short brown hair entered the room she was dressed
in blue jeans, white blouse tucked into her jeans, ample breast size and
brown loafers.
"I'm looking for Paula Wallace, please, I'm Nancy Pickett," she said
with everyone pointing at me.
"Good, is there someplace we can speak?" Nancy said with me motioning
for her to follow me. Walking along the corridor we entered an empty
office where the reports are written and sat down.
It was explained to me that all the foster homes were filled and I was
asked if Lisa could stay with me. Of course I said yes and was given a
packet of forms to fill out and mail back to her. Since I had a steady
job, good references and Mom was around to help, I was a shoo in to get
custody of Lisa. I was asked several more questions that were pertinent
to the welfare of the baby and I answered them all as honestly as I
could. I was also told that Child Services would try to find any
relatives of the mother it could, if none could be found the baby would
be put up for adoption. In the meantime as the guardian, I would be
responsible for Lisa's every need. I thanked Nancy after she closed her
files and stood up to leave. I shook her hand and escorted her from the
building.
Heading back to the dayroom when I entered the crews stood up and
applauded me and wished the new Mommy good luck. Here I was partially
changed into a female, single (Thank the Lord), over twenty-one and now
a foster parent in the works. At first I was very angry about the
changes in my body and then resigned myself to the changes. I was still
young and accepted the changes even though the little voice said it was
wrong as I was born a male. Screw that crap! I was alive, healthy and
now I was giving a child a home along with love after losing her mother
and perhaps her only relative. As a firefighter we stare at the
possibility of death with every fire we go to. I took an oath that as
long as I'm living and breathing to protect the lives and property of
those we serve, the citizen.
After several hours and gallons of coffee I finished the paperwork.
Robbie and almost the entire firehouse said they would give me a
reference to Child Services. I called Mom and Dad and told them what I
did and Mom said I did the right thing.
Tomorrow after work I was going with Lisa to her former home and get
whatever she needed, the lawyer and then make the funeral arrangements
for her mother. I also put in a request for several days off for the
funeral preparations and to settle the deceased woman's estate.
The night was a quiet one with no runs. It was seldom that this occurred
so you take it when you can get it. At six AM the house was stirring
with us all going about the various tasks in preparation of the coming
shift change at seven AM.
At seven AM I was on my way to Mom's house. I parked the SUV and walked
to the house. On entering Mom was awake and so was Lisa with both of
them in the kitchen.
I kissed Mom and Lisa saying, "I see everyone is awake."
"Oh yes, since six AM, when someone came and woke me."
"I was awake and Grandma said to wake her up when I got up." Lisa said
smiling. I immediately saw the child was dressed in Jeans, a pink top
with a cat on it and pink sneakers. She was dressed for the day.
I gently kissed her forehead and sat down saying, "Grandma huh, it has a
nice ring to it Mom."
"I cannot very well have the little sweetheart call me Mrs. Wallace can
I?"
"I guess not Mom, by the way where did you get clothes for her?"
"At her house, Dad had a cop open the house up after he got the address
from the dispatcher. We now have the keys to the house to get inside."
"I was hoping I wouldn't have to break a window, from what I recall the
house was neat even with the child loose and about," I said as I poured
a cup of coffee and sat down at the table.
"Dad spoke to a few of the neighbors yesterday, Charlotte Jones was her
name and she minded her own business."
"First off we need to get Lisa's clothes and her toys. Next we go
through the house and look for a will or something to that effect along
with any personal papers that might be put away. Finally we need to make
the funeral arrangements. I already put in for days off from work. I
need to get something to wear..."
"We can do all those things since your Dad is working today and I'm by
myself. Lisa finish breakfast and we need to go to your house, okay?"
Mom said with Lisa smiling and nodding her head with me smiling at her.
In ten minutes we were ready to leave Mom's house and go to Lisa's old
house.
I drove with the trip taking all of fifteen minutes with heavy traffic.
When we arrived at the house it was like the first time I saw it. It was
a pretty house made of brick with two stories with a patio off of the
master bedroom. In the back of the house there was another patio a large
backyard and a large two-car garage with the driveway at the side of the
house that was tree lined. Wrought iron decorated the house at every
location and the garage. Mom and I were enthralled with the architecture
that blended in with the neighborhood. Of course Lisa was overjoyed to
be home. Mom handed me the keys noticing that there were keys to a
vehicle, the house keys, and several other keys on the keyring. I found
the key for the back door and went inside with Lisa and Mom following.
We went through a mudroom into the immense, modern kitchen, which really
impressed me. Lisa ran into the house and went up the back staircase to
the second floor. Mom and I were speechless seeing that the house was
immaculate and well cared for, which I didn't really pay attention to
earlier. What I meant is for a structure that was over seventy years old
it was modern and clean, it put my townhouse to shame in craftsmanship.
Mom and I took a tour of the house from the formal dining room to the
master bedroom and bath, to the other bedrooms, den and finished
basement.
Going into the den on the main floor I sat at the desk and fired up the
computer. I searched the files finding financial records so I looked for
the hard copies. In my search I found a safe with a double key lock and
found the keyring. One key for the safe was on the keyring and another
key was found in the desk. I inserted the keys into the locks and opened
the safe. The door swung open easily and I was rewarded finding a stack
of organized files.
Sitting back down at the desk I went through the files finding financial
records for a stock portfolio and several bankbooks. I dug further and
found the Last Will and Testament. Of course Charlotte left everything
to Lisa with no one else mentioned, from the house, to the business she
owned that set the baby up for life. I also found the truth out that
Charlotte was a widow that when her husband died the insurance set them
financially secure even paying off the house however there was a
mortgage to get the tax benefits. This was not the story I had first
heard. There was also a trust fund that Charlotte had that was now
Lisa's trust fund. I was to say the least perplexed that there was no
mention of a guardian until I read there were no living relatives for
the baby but the person holding this Will, would be designated as
executor and guardian of Lisa.
I found Mom in the kitchen with Lisa and handed the will to Mom. She
read the will and was calling an attorney for advice. When she hung up
the telephone we had an appointment to see her attorney with all the
paperwork I found.
"Mom, there are no relatives as you can see; I just can't let the state
take over her welfare."
"That's why I called the attorney, he said they are going to fight like
hell to control everything but the Will states whoever possesses the
Will is the executor of the estate and also Lisa's guardian. I like
being called grandma so we have to fight for her."
"Mom, whatever is best for Lisa I want, and the state sure as hell isn't
the best deal for her. If I have to, I'll sell the townhouse and my SUV
so be it."
"I don't think you'll have to do that, besides we'll help you out, don't
worry."
Time was getting short and we took some clothing for Lisa, we had to
promise her we'd come back. I locked up the house and got everyone in
the SUV.
Chapter Nine
We made it to the attorney that looked at the Will and said it was all
in order. I gave him all the files and he said he'd look through them.
He would file the Will in Probate Court and file a petition with the
court to make me Lisa's legal guardian. I felt a little better when I
left his office.
We stopped at the funeral home and made the arrangements for Charlotte's
body to be taken care of, along with the funeral preparations.
After taking Mom home we went to the townhouse, as I was happy and close
to exhaustion. I parked the SUV and we went inside with Lisa's things. I
hung nearly everything up, put her undergarments in the dresser and
placed the shoes in the closet. Damn I was tired and so was Lisa. I took
her into my bedroom and we laid down for a nap, we were out in minutes.
Several hours later I awoke with Lisa holding on to me. I gently
extracted myself and left the bed.
Going down to the kitchen I started to prepare supper. When I was nearly
finished Lisa came down and ran to me with tears in her eyes saying, "I
thought you left me like my other Mommy."
Reaching down I picked her up saying, "Sweetie I didn't leave you and I
won't leave you." I sat her down on a chair after a hug and returned
back to cooking. I could feel her looking at me when I asked if she
wanted to help. In a flash she was at my side and I gave her simple
tasks to do.
Normally I was in favor of take out meals and cooking was not my
favorite thing to do. Since I was going to be a parent I wanted Lisa to
have balanced meals. She ate with gusto at the chicken I prepared and so
did I. I put the leftovers away and did the dishes with Lisa helping
me. For a kid of five she was at home in the kitchen.
To be honest with myself, I was happy to have Lisa around. I was
depressed and in pain as the changes in my body took hold. This little
girl had a way of making me forget that I was once a male and all the
body changes that have occurred with more still to come. To be quite
honest I now have a new meaning in life and that was raising Lisa. There
were times during the last few months I was despondent to the point of
committing suicide, even though I was seeing the shrink and the doctor.
I wasn't in a good frame of mind sin