Jessica's Story - Part 27 free porn video

Jessica's Story - Part 27 The end of the school year had significant meaning for Jessica. She had been a girl for one whole year. One year of growing her hair, wearing girls clothes, playing with dolls. One year of being herself. A small party to celebrate the occasion was planned for Saturday, with her friends coming over. They were told to tell their parents that they had just been invited over for the day, just like the many other days in the past. The day began with Anne getting ready for work. Julia and Helen were in charge, and since there was to be a party, however big, rules of the house stated that only clean girls and boys could attend. Therefore, all 4 children paid a visit to the bathroom over the course of the morning. Jessica was hoping that she would be given the go ahead to wear the pink princess dress that Miss Abbot had given her. Despite the fact that it did hold some painful memories - it resulted in a torrid afternoon for her, after her parents had found out she had been caught wearing it at school. But that day had led to now: living as a girl full time, and the prospect of becoming a woman rather than a man. This first year had been eventful, and the second was set to begin likewise. Since having her name legally altered to Jessica, her mother had found love again, with Kelly's mother Julia, and now they were set to marry in a few weeks. She had found new friends in Lisa and Rachel, and best of all, had discovered that her cousin Michael wanted to be a girl too. Only yesterday, did she learn that Michael was now Michelle. Like her, Michael had made the move to full time at the end of the school year. It was in the evening when Anne had answered the phone, and called Jessica down from her room. "It's your favourite cousin," smiled Anne, as she gave Jessica the receiver. "Michelle?" asked Jessica. "She wants to speak to you," said Anne. Jessica quickly put the receiver to her ear and began to speak. "Hello? Michelle, is that you?" came Jessica's voice. "Hello Jessica. Yes, it's me Michelle," said Michelle. "I just want to tell you that my name really is Michelle now and I'm having a party tomorrow to celebrate." "I'm so pleased for you," replied Jessica. "I'm having a party tomorrow too. I've been a girl for a whole year!" "Well, I'm a girl now, and I'm really happy. Though I'll be happier when I lose that thing between my legs," said Michelle. "I'll be happy to lose mine too," said Jessica. "Mommy says its only a few weeks to go before we meet again. I can't wait to see you. My sisters and I have got some new teddies that we would like you to meet." "I'll tell sis and we can bring our teddies with us. We can have a teddy bear picnic," said Michelle. "That would be fun," said Jessica. "Got to go. My daddy wants to finish our bunk bed. Sis and I are going to be sleeping in it tonight," said Michelle. "Ok," said Jessica. "Bye then. Can you give me a giggle please?" Michelle remembered that her giggle was well liked and obliged. "Thank you!" said Jessica. "Bye!" "Bye," said Michelle. "Well?" asked Anne. "Her name is Michelle now, mommy," said Jessica. "She's a girl now, and she's really happy!" "Well, that's good to hear," said Anne. "She's having a party too," added Jessica. "Just like you," smiled Anne. Jessica had discussed this with Sandra and Kelly for the rest of Friday, and into Saturday morning. But now, with her own party coming up later in the day, Jessica was discussing clothes. "Mommy, can you get my princess dress out please?" she said, as Julia helped wash her down in the bath. "You want to wear it for your party? Ok, I'll find it for you," said Julia. "I suppose the other girls will want to wear theirs too, especially if they know you want to wear yours." "I want to be the only princess though," said Jessica. "I think they'll get jealous though," said Julia. "And what about the other girls?" Jessica knew she was right, but this was her party, and she wanted to wear her pink dress. Sandra and Kelly were downstairs getting dried, after having their bath first. They were wondering whether to dress up for the party, and had no idea that Jessica was intent on being a princess for the day. "But what if Lisa and Rachel dress up too?" asked Kelly. "They know its a party." "But Rachel's parents don't," said Helen. "Now hurry up and finish drying, so you can get your clothes sorted." Upstairs, they could have their hair dried using Anne's hairdryer. Helen helped both of them do it, using a comb to untangle their hair first. They were basically done when Jessica came out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel. "What are you going to wear sis?" called Kelly. Jessica just smiled and said nothing. It got her sisters wondering. "She's up to something," said Sandra. "I bet she's going to dress up really pretty." "Like a princess?" asked Kelly. "If she is, I will too," said Sandra. "But what if she isn't?" asked Helen. "Why didn't she say anything?" asked Kelly. "This party is for her," said Helen. "She just wants to stand out." "You mean she wants to look prettier than us?!" said Sandra. "You'd be the same if your birthday party was a separate event," said Helen. Sandra realised that Helen was right. She always shared the spotlight on her birthday with Jessica, and now that Jessica was her sister instead of brother, their sharing of the spotlight had moved to a whole new level. "So, does this mean Jessica has to be prettier than us?" asked Kelly. "No, but if she wants the attention today, let her," said Helen. "Today is always going to be an important day to her." So, they decided to wear different dresses, though still very much the type reserved for parties. They waited in their room for Jessica to come back up. But as they looked out of the ajar door, they got a glimpse of a nude Edward as he made his way to the bathroom instead. Jessica did arrive eventually, and was escorted into Anne's room for the hairdryer by Helen. Julia was busy giving Edward his bath. "So my sisters know about me wanting my princess dress on?" asked Jessica. "They kind of guessed, but decided not to be princesses themselves. They still look pretty though," said Helen. "Now, to get your dress." Helen knew that all 3 princess dresses were stored together in her room, in the wardrobe that belonged to the girls. She went and fetched it and brought it back. Jessica just smiled as Helen held it in front of her. "This dress really suits you," said Helen, as she helped Jessica put it on. Jessica stood and twirled. She certainly felt more girly than ever when wearing it. "Ok. Now lets get some shoes on," said Helen. She took Jessica back downstairs. Sandra and Kelly peeked round the door and saw her. "Hurray for Princess Jessica!" they said together. Jessica looked and smiled. * * * When Edward was dried and dressed, Julia brought him downstairs and into the living room. She then called the girls over. "I know that only one of you is a princess today, but you can all wear some of this," she said, producing a bottle of pink nail varnish and some lipgloss. Make-up was a treat for special occasions as far as the girls were concerned. No doubt that in several years time, they would want to wear it more often. They sat beside Julia, in turn, and allowed her to paint their nails and lips. "Ok, now don't try and wear it off too quickly," she told them, as they headed upstairs to play. Edward had seen his sisters dressed pretty, and wondered why. "Are we having a party?" he asked. "Your sisters are just playing dress up today," said Julia. "And their friends are coming over later." "Does that mean Charlie is coming over too?" he asked. "I imagine so," said Julia. "Yipee!" he said, running towards the stairs. "I wonder when Anne is considering telling Edward about Jessica?" she asked Helen. "No idea," said Helen. "He doesn't appear to have noticed that his older brother has gone, and that he now has two older sisters." "Three now," said Julia. "But he's going to know eventually?" "Yes," said Helen. "We just need him to understand that its not something for idle gossip either." She was referring to Edward's friendship with Charlie. Edward could tell Charlie, and Charlie could tell his parents, both being oblivious to the problems it would cause. As the day neared the afternoon, preparations were made for the arrival of Lisa, Rachel and Charlie. This meant that Helen would be answering the door rather than Julia, seeing that Pam was still unaware of the situation. Jessica decided to wait upstairs, since she wanted to surprise her friends with her dress, even though they had seen her wear it before. Lisa was the first to arrive, and she had gone for something extra special in clothes too. Not her princess dress, but still a party dress. "Lisa seemed keen to dress up a bit for today," said Yvonne, her mother. "Don't mind of course, but is there something special happening?" "Not in particular," said Helen. "But girls love to dress up." "I know. Lisa is a girl and loves to show it," she smiled. "Well, see you later. Have fun." Lisa went inside and started looking for the girls. After finding that they weren't in the living room, she went upstairs. "Hi Lisa," they said, when she entered their room. "Jessica, you've got your princess dress on!" said Lisa. "If I'd have known, I would have worn mine." "We're not princesses either," said Kelly. "It's just that its a special day for Jessica and she wanted to feel special." "I've been a girl for a whole year," said Jessica. "Though I started dressing as one earlier." "But she gave up boys clothes for good, one year ago," said Sandra. "And I'm glad you did," smiled Lisa. She went and gave Jessica a hug. It wasn't long before Rachel and Charlie arrived too. Pam had dropped them off, and when she noticed Helen open the door, she didn't hang around. Both headed upstairs, as Edward was now in his room. He greeted Charlie warmly, and soon they were both playing Thomas the Tank Engine. Rachel followed Lisa's lead and felt disappointed to see Jessica the princess. But she soon got over it, and hugged her friend warmly too. "So, one year as a girl?" said Rachel. "But we've only known Jessica since September." "But I became Jessica after the first year ended," said Jessica. "As soon as school ended. I stopped being a boy and became a girl." "So, today is like a birthday?" asked Lisa. "I suppose so," said Jessica. "One year ago, I became me. The real me." "You are a girl," said Rachel. "You enjoy girls games, you enjoy wearing girls clothes, and you like having long hair, though its still not long enough, like mine." Jessica smiled. Rachel was right. She didn't just look like a girl. She behaved like one too, and for this reason especially, no one ever suspected that she was actually a boy. But the girls were soon back to their usual routine of playing their usual games: dolls, dolls houses, and teddies. It was a while later that Sandra decided to tell their dolls and teddies a story. The other girls were interested, and sat to listen, teddies and dolls on their laps. Perhaps it was because of the day itself, but the story was very familiar to Jessica. It was about a boy called Peter, and how he eventually got his one real wish: to become a girl called Jessica. Sandra actually remembered quite a bit, but kept it simple. She started from the day that Peter started playing in what was now their room, and how he started wearing some of her clothes to play in. From the moment Peter came out to her, and how their parents were against him. Then explaining how the incident with the pink dress resulted in things becoming better. These later parts were known to Kelly, Lisa and Rachel, but they listened keenly. Sandra even included the Christmas party which saw their cousin Michael come out. This hadn't been explained too much to the others, so this was one part they enjoyed a lot. When Sandra finally finished, she turned to Jessica, who was sitting beside her, and gave her a hug. "Thank you for becoming my sister," she said. "I've always believed in you." "I know you have," said Jessica. "Thank you!" With the mention of their cousins, Lisa and Rachel remembered that they would be visiting again to take part in the wedding. Since they were not going to the wedding, they wondered if they might yet get a chance to say hello to Emma and Michelle once more. "You might," said Jessica. "They've got to arrive before the wedding, as they need to try on the dresses." "We'll have to ask mommy," said Sandra. "She's downstairs," said Kelly. "We meant our mommy," said Jessica. "But my mommy is your mommy too, now," said Kelly. "Whatever," said Jessica. "But back to our cousins. Michelle is a girl now. She told me yesterday on the telephone." "You mean she has had her willy removed?" asked Rachel. "No," said Jessica. "But her name really is Michelle now. She can be a girl all the time now, and she is really happy about it too." "We'll have to say hello to her now," said Lisa. "Just to say congratulations." "I just want to see you in these bridesmaid dresses," said Rachel. "Not just having to see a photo." There was just one obstacle that had to be overcome if Rachel especially, could see the girls in their bridesmaid outfits: her mother, Pam. Being homophobic, if she got wind that her son and daughter were spending time in the same house as two lesbians, then the chances were that Rachel and Charlie would not be visiting ever again. Unless they could arrange for some way of getting the dresses early, and get Rachel to come over, then it would be a case of Rachel having to see a photo of them in the dresses. But for now, they continued to play. Attempts were made to come up with another story to tell, but Sandra's story proved impossible to beat. * * * Not all the day was spent in the girls room. They were called downstairs for sandwiches at midday, and they watched some DVDs in the living room too. It helped pass the time while they waited for Anne to arrive back home. Julia decided to keep her presence low key, especially around Charlie. Charlie wasn't as informed as his older sister Rachel, and was unaware that Julia now lived here. So, when it came to the sandwiches being served, it was Helen who did the honours. Eventually, Anne arrived back from work, and found the girls in the living room. They were watching a Disney film, which had proven a little too girly for Edward and Charlie. They had gone back upstairs to play more Thomas the Tank Engine. "So, our girl of the moment has become a princess," said Anne, noticing Jessica's attire. "It's a special day for her," said Lisa. "I know it is," said Anne. "Now, I just need to have a wash and put some other clothes on. I'll be back in a short while." While they waited for her, they continued to watch the DVD. When she did come back downstairs, she went to the kitchen first. Her reason for doing so became apparent when she came back into the living room. She was carrying a cake. "To Jessica, a beautiful girl," read Jessica, as she looked at the writing on it. "That is what you are, and have always been," said Anne. "I just wish I had seen it sooner." She put the cake on the coffee table, as Jessica was keen to give her a hug. They did hug for a few moments. "Thank you mommy," said Jessica. "My pleasure," smiled Anne. With the boys left to play upstairs, Anne arranged for a photo to be taken of Jessica and the cake. She then got some plates and a knife, so she could serve it. She kept two slices to one side, deciding that the boys should have a slice too. As the girls ate their cake, they were aware that the time to leave was approaching. While Helen went and told the boys to come and get their slices of cake, Anne was asked about the wedding plans. "I would really love to see you in your dresses," said Rachel. "Is there anyway we could?" "We want to see Emma and Michelle again too," said Lisa. "I'm hoping that they'll be arriving a few days before the wedding," said Anne. "So, theres a chance you may see them if you visit. We'll let you know." "But what about the dresses?" asked Rachel once more. "If there is a chance we can bring the dresses here before the day itself, I will arrange for you to see the girls in them, but it isn't certain yet," said Anne. "I just wish your mom wasn't so hateful." Edward and Charlie were soon in the living room and collecting their slices of cake. They took no notice of the letters on their slices, and just ate them. Soon, the DVD was finished, and so was the cake. It was just waiting for Pam and Yvonne to come and collect their children now. They did eventually, and nothing was said. The day had gone without a hitch Anne went back to the living room and looked at her three daughters. "Jessica. You can keep that dress on for the remainder of the day," she smiled. "I can understand why you wanted to wear it today." "I'm wearing it because I like it," said Jessica. "I really feel girly in it." Anne just smiled. She sat down beside Jessica and put her arm around her. Jessica then snuggled up beside her. "In this past year, I've learnt a lot," said Anne. "I've learnt that I like women. I've learnt that I like my hair red, but most of all, I've learnt that you really are a girl." "But Sandra learnt that first," said Jessica. "Sandra did," said Anne. "I was slow to learn, but all that is in the past. I repeat my promise to help you complete your journey." Jessica looked at her and smiled. She then just snuggled up even more. The problems that existed between them when Jessica was making her gender dysphoria clear, were now very much in the past. "That first day I took you shopping for girls clothes," said Anne. "When I took you in that mother and child room to get changed. Seeing you as a girl then, made me think. I could see how happy you were. It was then that I started to believe you." Jessica was just content to listen, and be close to Anne. Kelly and Sandra were getting bored of listening and headed back upstairs. "Do you want to join your sisters? You can if you like?" asked Anne. "I'm happy just to be with you at the moment," said Jessica. Anne was content with that, and started to idly play with Jessica's hair. "Your hair is really getting nice," she said. "Hopefully, by this time next year, it will be very long and beautiful." "Yours is pretty," said Jessica, now reaching and feeling Anne's hair. "Not as pretty as yours," she replied. They continued to enjoy this moment of togetherness, until Anne had to get up. "Sorry, but I do have dinners to prepare," she said. "Ok, mommy," said Jessica. "Thank you." She headed upstairs to join her sisters. Anne headed for the kitchen and found Julia and Helen sitting at the table talking. "Enjoy your time with Jessica?" asked Julia. "Yes," said Anne. "I suppose the other two will want a cuddle later." "So, come to start dinner?" asked Helen. "Yes," said Anne. "Wish to help?" "I will," said Julia. Upstairs, Jessica was back with her sisters. Neither were bothered with her having cuddling up to Anne. "My mommy gave me cuddles loads," said Kelly. "It makes you feel really good." "I've just remembered something," said Sandra. "It's Saturday." "She knows the days of the week," said Kelly with a sigh. "Ha ha," said Sandra. "But I mean this." She reached for one of the shelves and retrieved a book. Kelly and Jessica understood. "She promised to visit every Saturday and read us two chapters," said Sandra. "I wonder if mommy can ask her to come over?" asked Kelly. "She's making dinner now," said Jessica. "That's why I came back here." "Ok, we'll ask her during dinner," said Sandra. It was a about half hour later when they were called down to dinner. They found themselves beaten to the stairs by Edward, who raced past their door and was descending the stairs as though time couldn't wait. "Someone is hungry," said Kelly. But Edward's desire to get to the kitchen fast didn't get him his dinner sooner. By the time he got it, the girls were seated at the kitchen table too. "Mommy. Can you get Aunt Sally to come here please? It's Saturday," asked Sandra. "It's a bit short notice, but I'll try," said Anne. "Harry Potter?" Their smiles confirmed it. * * * So, following their dinner of turkey drummers, chips and spaghetti hoops, Anne went over to the phone and made the call. "Hi Sally," she said. "Any chance of coming over?" "I suppose," said Sally. "Anything urgent?" "Harry Potter," said Anne. "Me and my big mouth," she sighed. "Ok, I'll see if Carol wants to come." Anne waited a few moments before Sally returned to the phone. "Be round shortly. Best not to break promises to children," she replied. "And it happens to be Jessica's anniversary today," added Anne. "Oh, as in full time? Ok, I'll see you shortly." Anne put the phone down and headed back to the kitchen. "She's on her way," she told the children. "Yay!" they all cried. "Don't expect this every Saturday," said Anne. "The wedding day is one, and then we are going away the following Saturday." That news was not well received, but was brushed aside when Sally and Carol arrived. "Ok, so I'm due for another reading session?" asked Sally, as 3 girls and a boy confronted her. "Come on then." She left the others downstairs. Carol smiled and sat in the kitchen, so that they could all have a chat, even if one was busy with the washing up. "So, the day is now just a few weeks away," said Carol. "Anything you're still bothered about?" "Just three weeks, to be honest!" said Julia. "We just need to get confirmation of when John and his family plan on arriving," said Anne. "They may well have to arrive a few days earlier, as we need their daughters to be fitted for their dresses." "I imagine they'll be considering that," said Helen. "I'm looking forward to seeing my new grandson too." "I think we're all looking forward to that," said Anne. "Well, Sally and I have already seen him," said Carol. "During the half term break." "Oh, of course," said Anne. "So, have you got anything left to sort out?" "Unless you have any more to invite, all the guests are sorted," said Carol. "Sally has invited her work colleagues, and instructed them to come smart." Anne was aware that one of Sally's work colleagues was gay, and dressed in an androgynous manner. Partly because of the children, they didn't want any of them arriving as carnival queens. "We have no one else to invite," said Anne. "All sorted there." "Well, the hotel is sorted. I made the final payment last week," said Carol. "I've contacted the dress shop too, but the dresses will be another 2 weeks." "That leaves us with just a week to get them fitted," said Julia. "But we need to arrange two fitting sessions." "I know," said Carol. "Perhaps its best if Sally and Anne went along with the girls, and you and I went alone." "Seems the best idea," said Anne. "John's children are more familiar with Sally and I. We could always go in the morning, while you two go later in the day." "What about hair and make-up?" asked Carol. "We can always arrange something with our regular salon," said Anne. "But we may have to sort something out with Michelle and her wig." "Can't they just style her wig?" asked Carol. "Just ask John next time you call him," said Helen. "Better do that later in the week," said Anne. "If I'm right in thinking, this is Michelle's first week full time, and they'll be busy helping her adjust." "When I was up there a few weeks ago, she didn't need much adjusting," said Carol. "She was just desperate to go full time." "Just like Jessica," said Anne. "Been a year since she wore boys clothes, and she couldn't wait to go full time." "So, that is everything," said Julia. "Got the rings?" asked Helen. "I knew we were forgetting something!" groaned Anne, dropping her dishmop in the water. "We'll have to get them soon." "It can be sorted," said Carol. "Unlike the dresses, its one thing we can do together." While Anne finished doing the washing up, Julia put the kettle on, and got ready to make drinks for all the adults. By the time she was pouring hot water into the mugs, Sally was still upstairs. She took her drink upstairs to her. "Mug of coffee for you, Sally," she said, as she entered the girls room, finding all 4 children listening to Sally's narration. "Thanks. Need one after this," she smiled. "Have we got a drink, mommy?" asked Sandra. "I'll have one ready for you," said Julia. "But listen to Sally first." She returned to the kitchen and resumed the talk. It wasn't long before Sally joined them, having finished her latest session of Harry Potter reading. The children followed, and received glasses of pop. "So, you want Anne and I to go with the girls in the morning, for our fitting, and Carol and Julia to go later in the day?" she asked. "Yes," said Anne. "Fine by me," said Sally. "Just 3 weeks left as a singleton." "Oh, but being single is so boring, my love," said Carol. "Not really," said Sally. "Not when you have nieces and nephews who adore you." Everyone just smiled at that. "But you'll finally get to wear the one dress that every woman dreams of wearing," said Julia. "Unless that woman wants to be the groom," said Sally. "But you're right. I've always wanted to be the bride at my wedding." "Well, unless he contacts us first, I'll contact John sometime this week," said Anne. After finishing their drinks, Sally and Carol prepared to leave. They had to say fond farewells to the children as always, with Sally promising that she wouldn't need reminding about having to visit each Saturday to read Harry Potter. "So, pleased that Sally has been?" asked Anne. "Yes mommy," came three girl voices. "Yes mom," said Edward. Once they had finished their drinks, they returned to their rooms to continue playing. Before turning in for the night, Anne sat at her dressing table and admired herself. Her red hair was now comfortably resting on her shoulders, and she felt good about it. She planned on growing it to the base of her shoulders, a length she hadn't had since her college days. She passed her hairbrush through it, as she always did before bed. She smiled as someone approached her from behind. "Anne, you truly are beautiful," purred Julia, as he started running her fingers through Anne's hair. "And so are you," said Anne, getting to her feet, and turning to face her. "I really am looking forward to marrying you," said Julia. "Just 3 weeks to go," said Anne. "I've never felt this good about anyone, even Adam. I did once love him." "Well, he's in the past now. Now is about us," said Julia. "And I wouldn't mind some us time now." They leaned in towards each other, and their lips met. * * * Sunday was a quiet day, so Anne should have taken the chance to phone John, but she didn't. She awoke late that morning, having enjoyed making love to Julia that night. It must have been that that wiped all thought of phoning John from her mind, for she set about trying to find a means of keeping the children occupied. "Children, would you like to go to the park for a few hours?" she asked them that morning. "Yes please, mommy," said Kelly. The others agreed, and soon they were getting their shoes on, and preparing for the short walk. "You're not taking that with you?" asked Julia, as she noticed that Kelly had brought her toy pram downstairs. "Let her take it," said Anne."That's what its for." Kelly smiled from ear to ear, and she removed her doll from it and held her. In fact, her doll wasn't the only one in the pram - Jessica's and Sandra's dolls were in the pram too. And so, Anne and Julia took the children to the park. Deciding that it was safe to do so, they held hands as they went. Kelly was happy, pushing her pram along, occasionally checking to see if the dolls were ok. Jessica and Sandra walked either side of her, and they too took the occasional look inside the pram. Once at the park, Julia and Anne sat on the nearby bench and looked after Kelly's pram while the children played on the swings. "This place will forever hold some good memories," said Julia. "And a few not so good." "You mean my terrible lies about Jessica?" said Anne. "I just want to remember this place as being where I met you for the first time." "I think we're needed," said Julia, breaking topic. The girls were in need of further pushes on the swings. Anne and Julia therefore, got up and went over to them, taking Kelly's pram with them. After a good while on the swings, the girls decided to play on the slide, which was where Edward had been playing up till now. Eventually, the girls decided they wanted to play with their dolls. They found an area of grass and sat down. Anne and Julia decided to join them, and persuaded Edward to sit with them. It was a quiet sunny day, with very few people about. There were some people out taking their dogs for a walk. Anne and Julia were content to sit side by side, their nearest hands together, watching the girls play happily with their dolls. Edward was bored though, as he hadn't brought any toys to play with. He decided just to run around instead. "Don't run off too far," called Anne. If he did get too far away, they called him back. "This is the life," said Julia. "Me, you, and our four wonderful children." "Indeed," smiled Anne. She started playing with Julia's hair. "Is mommy's hair nice?" asked Kelly, noticing. "It is," said Anne. "Just like yours." "What about my hair?" asked Sandra. "And mine?" added Jessica. "You've all got beautiful hair," said Anne, realising that compliments had to be made to all three. To the girls, it appeared that their mothers were forgetting that they were adults, as Julia started playing with Anne's hair too. They also shared the occasional kiss. "So, are you contacting John?" asked Julia, ending the brief period of playfulness. "Oh, I forgot," said Anne. "But wouldn't it be better if we knew when the fittings are going to be?" "I could always go into Walsall tomorrow and arrange a date," said Julia. "Good idea. Perhaps making it Thursday at the latest will be best," said Anne. They remained in the park for another 20 minutes, after which, having looked at her watch, Anne decided they should head back home and have something to eat. They were starting to notice how the children were getting used to them being together. Even if their children still sought advice from their genetic mother first, they were now willing to get it from the other too. It pleased them tremendously, and they felt like they were married already. As promised, Julia headed into Walsall the next day, to visit the bridal store to confirm a date for the fittings. She was accompanied by the girls, who were keen to see their dresses for real. Edward had decided to stay at home with Helen. "Morning madam. How may I help you?" asked the woman at the counter. "My partner and I ordered some dresses a few weeks ago," said Julia. "Now, I know they won't be here yet, but I need to discuss a date for the fittings." "Sure thing," said the woman. "Can I have your name please?" "Brier. Julia Brier," said Julia. "My partner's name is Smith." The woman started looking for details on the computer. Meanwhile, the girls were admiring the dresses on display. Most of the dresses were in various shades of white, while some were completely different colours. They were drawn to the bridal gowns, which reminded them of princess dresses. "Look, but don't touch," said Julia. "We're just looking, mommy," said Sandra. "They're very pretty." The woman at the counter just smiled. "I take it that they'll be bridesmaids?" "Yes. They've got 2 cousins who'll be joining them," said Julia. "It's because of them that we need to arrange a fitting day." "Ok. The dresses are due in on the 7th August," said the woman. "So, when would you like to have them fitted?" "We had been thinking of the Thursday before the wedding," said Julia. The woman looked at the calender once more. "Thursday 10th. That's fine with us. Do you want to us to mark that day down for you?" "Yes please," said Julia. "Some of our party will be coming along later in the day. You know the tradition that the bride mustn't be seen before the wedding itself." "No problem," said the woman. "Can I have their names please?" "Carol McAllister and Sally Brook," said Julia. "Yes, that's them," said the woman. "Ok. So who will be coming first thing?" "Carol, myself, plus 5 bridesmaids," said Julia. "Sally and Anne will arrive later." "Perfect. Well, I'll see you then," said the woman. "Thanks for the details." "Come on girls. Time to go," said Julia, as she made her way out. They decided to have a look round Walsall town centre, which meant that the girls were keen to look in the large toy store over on the far side. "Ok, but I'm not buying you anything," said Julia. "You've got your holiday coming up in a few weeks." "Oh, can't we have something small?" groaned Jessica. "No," said Julia. "Now just have a look, will you." The only thing she did buy them, was something to eat, visiting a nearby chippy. She bought something for Helen, Anne and Edward too. "Won't those dinners go cold?" asked Kelly. "I can warm them up in the microwave," said Julia. "Now come on. Time to go home." So they did. Helen and Edward had their meals immediately, while Anne had hers when she got back from work. "So, I got the day sorted," said Julia. "Just need to pass this information on to John." "Brilliant," said Anne. "All that is left to do, is hope that that weekend goes as planned." * * * Anne called John later that evening, just to put the final piece of the plan into place. "Hi, who is it?" asked John. "John, it's Anne. We've arranged the day for the dress fitting. 10th August, that ok?" said Anne. "Ok, so we need to set out on Wednesday. Ok, thanks for the call," he replied. "Bye." "Bye John," said Anne. "That was short and sweet, but at least its done." Rather than put the phone down, she dialled once more. John wasn't the only one to need the date for the fitting. It took a while for a reply. "Hello, who is it?" "Sally, it's Anne. Got a date for your diary," said Anne. "Ok, just let me fetch it," replied Sally. She left Anne listening to silence for a few minutes. "Ok, what is it?" "10th August. Dress fitting," said Anne. "I hope that day is ok for you?" "As long as the shop stays open late," replied Sally. "But I'm sure the boss will give me the afternoon off." "Well, John and his family are arriving on Wednesday," said Anne. "I wasn't disturbing you by any chance?" "I've just finished taking a shower," said Sally. "I just hope Carol hasn't nicked all the towels." "She took a shower too?" asked Anne. "Ye..ee..ee..ss," replied Sally, sounding slightly embarrassed. "Tut tut," said Anne. "Pity our shower is over the bath." "Oh, well, better be going. Thanks for the info. Bye," said Sally. "Bye," said Anne, a broad smile on her face. She put the phone down and went to the kitchen afterwards. She filled the kettle up, and started to prepare drinks. "Told John then?," said Julia. "Didn't he have any more news?" "Didn't seem like it," said Anne, who was now preparing 3 mugs. "Ask the children if they want a hot chocolate." Julia did so, and came back with orders for hot chocolates all round, with the exception of Helen, who wanted a coffee. "So, what about Sally? She ok with the date?" she asked Anne. "Said she would," said Anne. "Made me wish our shower was a separate item, rather than being mounted on the wall at the head of the bathtub." "How come?" asked Julia. "Sally likes showering with Carol," said Anne. "Oh, and I guess, you'd love a shower with me?" smiled Julia, now walking behind Anne and giving her a squeeze. Anne's wry smile confirmed Julia's guess. "Well, we could try and get in the bath together," she added, giving Anne a kiss on the cheek. "If theres room," said Anne. "I just about get two of the girls in there." "Oh well, theres always the bed," sighed Julia, now allowing Anne to finish making the drinks." Julia did help Anne carry the drinks into the living room where the children and Helen were gathered. "So, everything is decided now," said Anne. "Dresses, reception, guests. Just got to see it through now." "Thank goodness," said Julia. "We can put our feet up for a few days." "I'm just hoping we can get Jessica and Michelle fitted without any problems," said Helen. "Jessica won't have any problems," said Anne. "She's fine. It's just Michelle. We just need to make sure her wig stays on." "There'll be one of us with them anyway, so she should be fine," said Julia. "I'm just afraid that we, the brides, will be outshone by the bridesmaids." "Yes," said Anne. "You do have a point." She feigned fear at the thought. The girls just looked at her, puzzled. "What do you mean, mommy?" asked Jessica. "Well, the brides, that is Julia and I, are meant to look the prettiest on the day, but I don't think we can be prettier than you," said Anne. "But you are pretty," said Sandra. "And you'll look pretty in a dress." "Just got to make sure Edward looks smart for the day," added Helen. "Have we got a shirt in his size?" "Not really sure," said Anne. "Not getting him a suit though. They're too expensive, and since he'll only wear it on the odd occasion, and he'll likely outgrow it before then." "Hire one then," said Julia. "I'll think about it," said Anne. "But if he decides he wants to come in a Thomas the Tank Engine t-shirt, then let him. The following day, with Anne at work, Julia stopped in and decided to see if there were any shirts that Edward could wear. "If Anne told me right, she put Jessica's old clothes at the back of this cupboard," said Helen. Julia had been led into her own bedroom, and shown to the cupboard in question. It was one of Anne's cupboards. They opened it and found a large cardboard box at the bottom, sealed with tape. They removed the box and looked at the writing on it. "Peter's clothes," read Julia. "Well, he isn't coming back." "Anne has mentioned letting Edward use them when he was older," said Helen. "Well, that time may have come," said Julia. She went downstairs and fetched a pair of scissors. Soon, the box was open, and the two women were sorting through a collection of boys clothes that hadn't seen the light of day in over a year. Various t-shirts and trousers, including school uniform items were inside. Julia looked at the school shirt: a white polo neck. It bore no emblem, as the jumper that was worn over the top bore that. "I think this will do," she said. "If it fits." Edward was in his room, playing with his train set, just one of several train themed items in his room. He was soon interrupted in his play by Helen. "Edward, we've got some clothes here that we'd like you to try on," she said. Edward got up, not enthusiastically, and went over. She took him into Anne's room and showed him the shirt and trousers. "Are these new?" he asked. "They used to belong to someone else, but he doesn't need them now," said Helen. "His mom let us have them." Edward was going to learn the truth one day, but when that day would be, was yet to be decided. He wouldn't have recognised the clothes any way, as he was only 3 when Jessica last wore them. He obliged in letting his gran put the clothes on him, and much to their delight, they fitted him. "Well, that is good news," said Helen, as she and Julia admired him. "We can tell them that the clothes fit." "Are all these clothes for me?" he asked, looking at the box and trying to tip it up. He noticed the writing and pointed to it. "Peter is the boy who used to own these clothes. They're too small for him now," said Julia, effectively answering his question. "Ok, you can wear this shirt for the wedding," said Helen. "And for school in September." Edward didn't want to talk about school yet. He was too busy enjoying life at home, and he wanted to continue pushing Percy around the track. He was beginning to show that he wanted to get back to his toy trains and the message finally reached home. "Ok, you can put your other clothes back on, and then you can go back to your room," said Julia. "But I'll be doing some sandwiches in a short while." "Ok," he replied. He headed back to his room, and his trains. Helen and Julia headed downstairs, but stopped at the girls room to tell them about the imminent lunch too. When Anne arrived back from work, she was told about the clothes, and how they did fit Edward. "I hoped they would in time for his school start in September," she said. "He didn't ask about the name on the box, did he?" "We told him that we were given the clothes by someone else, because the boy was now too big for them," said Helen. "Thanks. I just don't know when the right time will be, to explain the truth to him," sighed Anne. "I need him to understand how important it is that he keeps this information secret." "Well, he just knows that he has 2 sisters and one soon to be sister," said Julia. "That's all he needs to know for now." "Well, I'd better start on the dinner," said Anne. She went and called the children down, so she could find out what they would like.