Made from Clay
By Jena Corso
Edited By Angela Myers
Chapter 3
"Good try, honey," said his mother, hugging him after the game. "Think
of it as an honor just playing in this game and I'm sure you had fun."
"Yeah, sure." Cameron shook his head as they walked to the car.
"Hopefully I'll make a high school team so I can play again."
"Good luck with that," said his sister teasing him. "Logan's like twice
your size. You're barely tall enough to be a cheerleader!"
"I knocked him on his ass a few times, and so did our defense!"
screamed Cameron.
"Oh, stop!" said Tracey, flicking her wrist. "You're not the only one
that should be in dresses. Your entire team tackles like girls."
"Enough you two!" yelled his father.
"Everyone calm down. It's done," said Donna. "Tracey, you need to be
appreciative of Cameron, and honey you did very well. We support you as
an actor and a player."
"Let's just get out of here, and we still have to pick up your mother's
car at Mr. Vandermeer's studio," said James as he drove. "As it is
they killed us, hate our team, and I heard the bathroom's underwater as
someone clogged the toilet and never told anyone, so it overflowed the
whole second half."
Cameron's eyes widened, before looking out the window silently smiling
as they quickly drove dropping off his mother so she could get her car.
"Right to the shower Cameron, and you'll need to really wash and
condition that hair," said Donna before getting out. "Tracey will give
you her shampoo and you'll really need to scrub well please. They asked
me to just stop inside real quick, so I'll expect you'll help him until
I get home."
"Of course mom," said Tracey, politely grinning to her mother.
The minute he got home, they went upstairs walking into the bathroom.
"Here," said Tracey handing him a few bottles. "Leave the body wash on
your skin while you wash your hair, and definitely let the conditioner
sit on or at least ten minutes."
He followed her instructions, enjoying a nice long warm shower washing
and conditioning his hair.
"Mom said get out now," said Tracey, knocking on the door. "She wants
me to blow dry your hair and she said she'll fix it when she gets
home."
"I can do it myself Tracey," said Cameron, switching off the water.
"No, mom said you'd never get the knots out," said Tracey through the
door. "She said for me to have it right for her."
"Whatever. I'm too tired to even argue," said Cameron, exhausted from
the long and stressful day, opening the door with a towel around his
waist. "Let's just get today over with."
He looked up, seeing his sister's hair set in hot rollers and in a
bathrobe. He sat without argument on the hamper as Tracey pulled out
the hair dryer and began brushing through his locks as she dried it. As
she finished, he looked over, wondering what he'd have to do come
tomorrow, seeing his reflection with long straight hair and sharp
bangs.
"Good job, Trac," said Donna, walking in now and lifting Cameron's
chin. "What's with my hot rollers? We didn't talk about that?"
"Oh, I just thought I'd do something a little fancier, since this is a
nice dinner," said Tracey. "Cameron's hair looks cute, right?"
"Don't change the subject, young lady," Donna grinned. "I know you
better than that. You think he likes it better curly, don't you?"
"Well?" sighed Tracey, knowing she was busted by her mother, grinning
as she patted her lips with her index finger. "Not really, but you know
I like my hair curly sometimes."
"Ok, ok. It's fine and I wasn't born yesterday, Tracey," said Donna
chuckling. "You going to tell him or should I? You know I just was with
Mr. Vandermeer?"
"Tell me what? All this girl stuff is so annoying," whined Cameron.
"Just dress me and let's get this over with, so I can go home and to
bed. I helped you with everything Tracey, so that's it after tonight!"
"He's right mom," said Tracy, hugging her brother quickly. "But you
better tell him."
"Relax, it's no big deal," said Donna, immediately knowing she'd need
to calm him down.
"Now what?" screamed Cameron. "Enough mom! Please, enough!"
"Cameron, I said it's nothing," said Donna, getting stern. "It's just
they put Logan at your table tonight, but don't get crazy, Tracey will
sit next to him."
"You shitting me, mom!" screamed Cameron. "No way. He just kicked my
ass and what if he recognizes me now? Please, I want nothing more to do
with him. Get them to move him."
"Relax, he won't recognize you. I've been texting back and forth with
him for a half hour," said Tracey, texting. "He knows my brother played
against him, but could care less and said he didn't notice him on the
field. Last thing he remembers is how pretty I looked in curls."
"Mom!" yelled Cameron. "Make her stop. That was me in the curls!"
"Easy honey, no chance he could tell either of you apart, and I'm
pretty sure Tracey's got you covered there anyway. Why do you think
your boy crazed sister has my rollers in?" said Donna, giving Tracey a
look. "Now I knew you'd flip so I had a discussion with Mr. Vandermeer,
and I can get your seat changed but it's up to you. Remember, you'd be
away from Tracey as well, or you can sit there and I'll flat iron your
hair if you're too worried."
"You kidding? Who cares about being with her," said Cameron. "I've been
mostly without her for two days dressed like this anyway. Just get me
the hell away from that asshole, and let her sit there all flirty.
It'll make me even sicker sitting there than with some other group of
people I don't know at all. I'd rather do that. Please mom, do whatever
you have to to move me."
"I wasn't sure but I thought you'd say that," said Donna, picking up
the phone, dialing Mr. Vandermeer.
She spoke for a minute before hanging up and twisted her neck, nodding
before getting a bit emotional as she hung up taking his hand.
"Ok, it's done," She said as she lead him to her bedroom, where he
noticed three zipped up garment bags lying flat on her bed. "Sit at my
vanity, Cameron."
"What's wrong, mom?" asked Tracey, confused.
"Nothing, but I'm warning you Tracey," said Donna, getting stern. "I
know you're boy crazy, but I still expect you'll watch out for your
sister. You know how much of a stretch all this is for him, and I
better not hear about you disappearing from that dinner to hang with
Logan. You're still too young for all this crap, and you damn well
better take care of your little sister."
"Yes, mom," said Tracey, before shaking her head. "Wait, what?"
"You heard me, now get dressed," said Donna. "Take either the second or
third garment bag. They're the same as you would have been dressed
alike. The first one is for Cammi."
"Cammi?" said Cameron, as she lifted his legs as he looked down, seeing
her take out a simple white satin panty.
"Yes, when you pick up your table card with your name on it, that's how
it will read now," said Donna as she pulled him from the chair, tugging
the panties up tight. "Since you didn't want to be with Tracey, Mr.
Vandermeer was able to get you on a younger table. I knew you might not
want to sit with Logan and Tracey, so they gave me both outfits. Now
it's done, so don't give me a hard time and let me enjoy getting you
ready without giving me too much trouble."
He was silent as she rolled up some white tights, knowing there were no
good choices for him as she pulled them taut, snapping the waistband
over his belly button. He didn't understand what she was doing next as
she knelt again, sliding a larger ruffle panty over the tights, pulling
it right up into place as he stood there following instructions. She
took a band from her vanity, quickly tying a pony in his hair and then
pinned his bangs back with a few clips.
He was silent as she worked on his complexion, sponging and powdering
over and over as he sat in nothing but his tights and underwear, on his
best behavior. She opened a little eye shadow kit, taking the little
oval applicator and softly rubbing it into some color.
"Close for me, Cammi," said Donna, sliding it across his lids as he
closed them.
"Mom, easy with that, ok," whined Cameron as she was blending his lids.
"This is all tough enough."
He felt her softly blow on his closed eye sockets and then opened his
eyes as she took some blush to his cheeks. A big powder puff was now
tapping across his face before she finally stopped, taking a huge soft
brush gliding it everywhere.
"Is that easy enough, my precious little one," teased his mother,
almost baby talking as she took her mascara wand lightly coating each
lash after lash a few times. "Sorry, I'm just setting the mood."
"Glad you're enjoying this mom!" cried Cameron, as she took a brush to
his lips, painting them.
"I know you'll hate me for saying this, but if I were you I'd try just
enjoying being cute and adorable tonight and maybe you'll forget about
that stupid game," said his mother, lifting his legs and putting on his
shoes now. "Believe me, there's many days in my life I wish I could go
back to just being a little girl without a worry in the world."
"Or how about a big girl, mom," said Tracy from behind as she came in
posing with on hand on her hip and the other in the air. "So how do I
look in Gucci!"
Cameron's jaw dropped, seeing his sister as she entered in her new
dress. She looked so much older than ever before in a sparkling red
spaghetti strap dress and plenty of makeup. On top it was completely
made of scarlet sequins before the attached short skirt section flowed
in a delicate scarlet chiffon. She had on nude hose, showing off her
skinny legs and was completely in love with being in little red kitten
heels. Her red lips matched the scarlet dress and her hair swept across
her face from a deep side part arranged in perfectly coiffed wavy
curls.
"You look like a starlet, Tracey. I think your father is going to have
a heart attack when he sees you," said Donna, getting up and hugging
her. "You look so gorgeous. So grown up."
"Bet you're happy you're not in this, Cameron," Tracey quipped as she
posed.
"I guess in some strange way the answer is yes," said Cameron, shaking
his head. "I doubt I could walk in those."
"You'd be surprised. It's her first time in heels like that," said
Donna, looking at her daughter. "But I'm pretty sure she wouldn't be so
bubbly if you were in the same dress."
"Like I'm worried about her being bubbly!" replied Cameron.
"Bubbly or not, I'll make sure to look after you, little sis," teased
Tracey. "Don't be jealous because maybe I'll let you borrow it when
you're older."
"Ok, enough you two. Help me finish dressing him, because we're running
out of time," said Donna, rolling her eyes. "This is all for you,
right?"
"Sorry, you're right. No problem mom, I just get carried away
sometimes," said a happy Tracey, unzipping the garment bag and taking
out the dress. "Wow, this is gorgeous, mom."
"It should be! It's a Kate Mack - Biscotti. Do you have any idea how
expensive these dresses are you two are in?" said Donna, opening up the
back.
"No, but I can see that. They look it," said Tracey smiling. "I could
get used to these, being dressed up in fancy stuff."
"But I can't," said Cameron, just hating every word of their
conversation.
"Arms up, Cameron," said Donna grinning. "You can't, but you are anyway
tonight my darling. Now be still and we'll guide it. It's very
delicate, just like you honey."
Cameron rolled his eyes and lifted his arms as his mother and sister
worked together guiding the dress over his body. He knew the annoying
sensations all too well as Donna carefully adjusted it into place.
She knelt now tugging at the ends of the fluffy skirt as she moved it
so delicately while Tracey fastened each button on his back.
"It's gorgeous on him," said Donna stepping back. "You think it needs
another layer or two?"
"Mom, I think it's fine, and it's getting late," said Tracey, looking
at her watch.
"You don't need to be the first ones there, Tracey," said Donna,
barking at her. "I still have to get ready, do his hair, and did I ever
take you any place without making sure you looked absolutely perfect?"
"You're right, mom," said Tracey giggling. "You're the best. Go get
ready and I'll do his hair. I really enjoyed that earlier."
"I know you did sweetie," said Donna as they hugged. "I'll go get ready
and let me at least see what we still have to maybe puff out that skirt
a little. In the little bag on the bed are some cute accessories that
they gave me that match the dress. I haven't decided what I want to do
with it yet, so experiment and just get it ready for me. I'll be back
in just a bit."
"No problem, mom," said Tracey, as their mother headed into her
bathroom. "Sit and don't wrinkle that skirt, Cameron."
"Go easy, Tracey," said Cameron as she plugged in a few of their
mother's devices at her vanity.
"Stop whining," said Tracey, pulling out the clips and pony before
spritzing his hair with a flowery spray as she brushed through it.
"This is really going to be fun. I told you I wished I had a little
sister, and I loved doing it earlier. Now what should we do here?"
Cameron was mumbling as she removed a few tangles and dampened his
head. It didn't take long before she started on the left, quickly
guiding the flat iron through his hair, straightening section after
section as she circled him. When she was satisfied, she walked over
rummaging through all the accessories before coming back over and
tossing a series of items on the vanity. She parted it to the left, and
then the middle, before pulling it back in a high pony, experimenting.
She tugged and twisted as she pinched at his scalp as he cringed until
his mother came back in.
"It's a fancy occasion and braids like that won't work with that dress,
Tracey," said Donna, tossing a white ruffled item on the bed. "If I had
time, he'd have a head full of big curls again. They'd look beautiful
with that dress and I wouldn't make them look so sleek and precise like
yours."
"Yeah, and then we'll be late," whispered Tracey, undoing his braid as
she brushed through his hair again, annoyed. "Waterfall braids are in,
mom."
"Not with dresses like that, they're not. A thick French braid would be
really pretty on him, but I think for a girl his age in that dress, I'd
like his hair down. Maybe just wait for me and I'll do a little
something cute after I go put on my makeup," said Donna looking through
all the accessories. "There's plenty of really adorable things here."
"I got it mom," said Tracey, flat ironing again.
"Ouch!" cried Cameron as she brushed hard. "Maybe just let mom do it.
That freaking hurts."
"Stop being such a baby, or I'll put you in pigtails," said Tracey,
getting a brainstorm, turning around and grabbing something from the
vanity. "You know what? Maybe I'm over thinking. Damn, that could be
adorable."
Tracey took a thick curling iron and twisting all the bangs under at
once, giving them some nice body as she released them after thirty
seconds. She took what looked like a blonde colored plastic flex comb
which had sharp looking teeth and stretched it open in front of his
face. It was like she was brushing his entire head in one stroke as she
dug the harsh edges into his scalp from temple to temple as it made its
way from his forehead to the crown. She took a few pins, securing it
there before she leaned over, grabbing a headband and sliding it down
before it rested behind his ears.
"This is going to be adorable," said Tracey, taking the headband back
off and tossing it on the vanity. "You just need a little teasing and
primping and you'll be looking more the princess in no time brother."
"Tracey, come on!" cried Cameron, trying to twist before she stopped
him. "Cut the shit. You've teased me enough. Put the stupid headband
away and let's leave!"
"No chance, little primadonna!" said Tracey, walking behind him and
digging in a comb at the back of his head. "Mom's going to like this.
She liked your hair with some shape, and said you should be in curls.
Sit still, you're about to get them!"
Cameron sat folding his arms like a little brat as Tracey could care
less as he felt her lift and tug his head as she teased it. He had no
idea what to expect, hearing the fizzle of the hair spray followed by a
bit more tugging. She came out in front of him now, pushing with her
palm at the crown and spraying before watching her walk behind him with
a thin flat iron in her hand. He could feel the extreme head near his
neck as she twisted it in and out about every thirty seconds, until she
stopped spraying like crazy this time.
"Mom's going to," said Tracey, until she got interrupted by Donna.
"Love it," squealed Donna, as she came in. "Oh Tracey, he looks
amazing."
"Turned out so pretty, right," said Tracey, sliding the headband back
on. "This headband is gorgeous too."
"Only thing better would be a tiara," Joked Donna. "Just not with this
dress. Help me put the mini-petticoat on him and we're out of here.
Stand up, Cameron."
Donna took the petticoat from the bed while Tracey lifted his skirt and
they guided it under his dress as he stepped into it. It wasn't
visible, but he could instantly notice how it really poofed out his
dress. Donna took her finger now, rubbing it into a little canister and
then sliding it across his lips. He could instantly taste the sticky
watermelon flavor as she wiped her finger with a tissue before dropping
a few items in a little red purse handing it to him.
"Not like that, little sis. Come here," teased Tracey, dragging him
towards their mom's full length mirror and correcting him as she took
it from his grip before sliding the two short straps over his forearm.
"When you're walking, you'll keep that elbow folded."
"How the hell would I know that?" cried Cameron. "And easy with the
little sis stuff. We both know that's crap, so save it."
"You got a point there, but hey get a look at us together," said Tracey
putting her arm over his shoulder and tossing her hair like a diva.
"Right now is there a doubt who's the big sister."
Cameron looked ready to explode, staring at their side by side
reflections in the full length mirror together. He knew she was right
by the way they were dressed and made up as their year and a half age
disparity had seemingly been reversed and widened by even a larger
margin than he could have thougt possible.
She was certainly taller than him now, having a few inches added by her
pumps and at least another by her hair. She had never looked so grown
up before, with distinct evening makeup even though she might have had
on less than she had on before at the earlier shoots. It certainly was
quite a contrast from his face, which looked so porcelain white with
just a hint of pink cheeks and shadows behind curly precious lashes and
coral pink lips, with just a hint of shine. Her hair was flipped all to
one side and sat in a series of precision waves like an actress on a
red carpet, while his was undoubtedly resembled something closer to a
flower girl. His bangs sat slightly rolled under, just covering his
brows and behind them, distinct comb lines were set from temple to
temple before they disappeared underneath the striking thin red
headband. It was unmistakably highlighting his hair as it was randomly
littered in tiny rhinestones before exploding on the left side with an
oversized ornate matching silk red rose, which was framed by layers of
thin red tulle mesh and some matching satin ribbon. Behind the
headband, his hair was teased a bit, giving it just a hint of a poufy
crown before streaming down in a simple straight style that ended in
some loose dainty curls at the very bottom.
Their biggest difference of course was in their red dresses, as
Tracey's tiny dress clung tightly, accentuating the few curves she had
at her age, giving her a much older, more sexy appearance while
Cameron's did the exact opposite, giving him that wonderful little
wallflower flare.
He lifted the frilly ends of the elaborate Kate Mack - Biscotti red
glitter netting dress, amazed at how many soft layers it seemed to
have. He was unable to see the thick ruffled petticoat that was hidden
beneath it flaring out his skirt, but it was crazy to imagine how big
and poofy it looked. The ruby red hue was almost blinding in the
reflection as the embellished and bedazzled dress shone from all the
glitz and detail. It featured a glossy satin fabrication with mesh
overlay and diamante petal detailing across the entire bodice. After
digging through the layers, he was finally able to lift enough
sections, getting to the frill underskirt, and then finally seeing the
shorter petticoat as he lifted it, seeing his white ruffled panties. It
was nauseating as he dropped it all back down, seeing it engulf his
knees as he stared at what was left of his legs in white tights and
glass like ruby red Mary Jane shoes.
"Cheese, girls," said their father, as he startled them and they turned
around while he snapped a few pictures.
Their mother joined them, happily getting in the middle as James turned
back around rubbing his forehead when he finished snapping some shots,
allowing her a moment.
"Oh relax, James. I know she looks all grown up, but she's getting
older," said Donna, patting him and then spinning Cameron back around,
adjusting the back of his dress. "Just relax as your girls look
gorgeous. Don't they? Would be nice if you told them?"
"You look beautiful, girls," said James, looking flush before
whispering to his wife. "Yeah, who knew my boy would make a better
princess than he does a linebacker."
"Whoever made that dress knew. It's like it was made for him,"
whispered Donna to James before kissing him and looking at her watch.
"Time to go ladies. We should just make it to arrive fashionably late."
They followed their mother out to the car and Donna lectured them all
the way to the event.
"Have fun and make sure you take care of him, Tracey," said Donna,
giving one last lecture. "I expect you to keep checking on him and
don't forget to sit and act in ladylike fashion please."
"Of course,Mom."
"You'll be fine Cameron. Relax," said Donna, giving him one last hug.
"Trust me you'll be one of the prettiest little girls there."
"MOOOMMMM!" sighed Cameron. "That's not helping."
"Let's go, little sis," Tracey called back. "We've got to get little
Cammi checked in."
As they got there, Cameron followed Tracey inside and waited in line
for their table cards.
"Hi I'm Tracey Martin, and this is Cammi," said Tracey.
"Wonderful, I have your badge here Miss Camm,i and don't you look just
beautiful tonight," said the woman, pinning a name tag carefully on his
dress.
"Thank you," uttered Cameron, softly feeling the little prod from
Tracey.
"You'll need to check in at the middle school registration across the
hall Tracey, and I see Cammi hasn't declared her charities yet, so
we'll need to do that now," said the woman. "Did you know which one you
were pledging to?"
"Oh, I didn't either," said Tracey. "But we can just do that now,
right?"
"Yes, you can do that now dear, but you'll do that when you get your
name tag and Cammi will do it here," said the woman, handing Cameron a
clipboard. "Would you like me to help your sister fill this out while
you register and do yours, since it's already late."
"Oh, that would be wonderful," said Tracey, quickly racing off. "I'll
check on you in a few, sis!"
The woman took the clipboard back from Cameron and began asking
questions. She handed it back to him as he read through the names and
checking off boxes.
"I think that's a wonderful charity for a girl your age dear," said the
woman, taking his wrist and placing a peach paper bracelet over it.
"Remember you're at table 10, and have fun tonight dear."
He looked down at the annoying bracelet he was more used to getting
when being measured for a ride at an amusement park as he walked into
the formal dinner. He walked inside, shaking his head as he saw the
section of tables with kids three and four years younger than him he
was heading towards. He found his table, quietly sitting down by
himself as other kids were filtering in. Many knew each other as they
chatted as he sat there trying to avoid the conversations and eye
contact, until he felt two hands on his shoulders, looking up seeing it
was Tracey.
"Hey guys. This is my cool little sis, Cammi, everyone," said Tracey,
all bubbly. "Try to make her feel relaxed. She's painfully shy."
"Hi Tracey," said a young boy, with a nasally voice, checking her out
as he smiled, revealing his wide braces. "Remember me from summer camp?
We had so much fun together. I'm Timothy. You look so different. So
grown up."
Tracey stared at him for a moment and then realized he was a young
nerdy boy that never left her alone. What trigged her memory were his
huge silver braces and thick black glasses as she remembered him being
a year or two younger than her. He had on a crooked black tie with a
red shirt and a black suit.
"Oh, hey Timothy. Good to see ya again," said Tracey, dying to leave as
he reached out his hand.
"Thanks," said Timothy, shaking but not letting go as he started at
Cameron now. "I didn't know you had a little sister and can't believe
how lucky it is I get to sit next to her. Is she anything like you?"
"Oh she's much cooler than me, and much more fun. That's so perfect, so
you'll watch her for me then Timothy, and you two can hang together,"
said Tracey, pushing his hand off her and towards Cameron's. "Sorry but
I'll need that hand back Timothy, ok?"
"Sure," said Timothy, turning towards Cameron.
Cameron's head looked ready to pop off as he found himself shaking
hands with the nerdy boy.
"See you in a bit then, sis," said Tracey as Logan came over to get
her. "I'd say you're in good hands now."
He had no idea how to react or converse, as quickly Timothy began
besieging him with questions.
"You've got pretty nails," said Timothy, as Cameron looked down pulling
his hand away, ending the shake.
"Thanks, but my mom would be mad if I chip one," said Cameron, grossed
out.
"And pretty hair, and smile, and dress," said Timothy, motoring on and
on. "We match too. I've got a red shirt. Isn't that awesome?"
"How nice," said Cameron, ready to put a bullet in his head.
"So how come you weren't in camp?" said Timothy. "Or were you? Wait you
weren't, I'd remember!"
"I was in football cam," started Cameron as he caught himself quickly.
"Uuumm camp for cheer. You know with the other cheerleaders for
football."
"Oh man, you're a cheerleader," said Timothy. "I'm so lucky to be
sitting with you. Those girls usually ignore me. This should be a fun
night."
"Really!" said Cameron sarcastically, looking to the sky. "That's so
hard to believe."
"I know, but they're not always as nice as you and your sister," said
Timothy. "Now how about ---?"
Timothy motored on, talking nonstop, asking question after question as
Cameron nodded and did his best tuning him out or giving short answers.
"Ok, guys," said a woman coming over. "Stand up and let me take some
pictures. You two look adorable together. Put your arm around her,
Timothy."
Cameron had had enough of posing today, as Timothy loved every minute
of it. They took a few shots before he jumped in Cameron's chair before
he sat and laughed as a few got snapped of him sitting on Timothy's
lap.
"Easy you two," said the woman chuckling, as Cameron jumped up. "You do
make a cute couple, but there's plenty of time for that when you're
older and I've still got to take the rest of shots of the table."
He was happy to jump up and away from Timothy as he looked around at
the other young kids, just biding his time until hopefully this event
would be over. He sat back down as they watched as each group was
honored on stage with their charity, looking at his sister as she stood
there with a glimmer in her eye next to Logan as they had little
ribbons pinned on their shirts. Finally, after what seemed like another
hour, he was called up to the stage with a half dozen other girls as
they were seated in individual chairs facing the audience.
'I'm so surprised to see you picked this charity Cammi, but you made a
great selection," said a woman over his shoulder. "It's a wonderful
cause. You should be very proud."
"Oh, hi thanks Justine," said Cameron, looking over his shoulder as she
placed her hands on his shoulders. "I'm sure it's an important cause."
"It's amazing honey, and as a professional, I've been lucky to be
involved with it for a long time," said Justine lifting the back of his
hair and gently touching it. "Don't worry, I'll make sure everything
turns out perfect for you."
"A round of applause for our Looks of Love volunteers today, everyone,"
said the announcer, nodding to the group as he felt Justine gather his
hair behind his neck. "Ladies please commence with the proceedings as
we like to do this quickly, so no one gets cold feet."
Cameron had no idea what they meant as he glanced over, seeing the
other girls having their hair pulled back as well before hearing the
little snap of a band near the top of his vertebrae. He only got a
momentary glance as Justine took both palms to each side of his face,
straightened his head to face directly forward as he couldn't
understand why it seemed like they were all facing the crowd to be put
in ponies. Before he could even blink, he heard distinct shearing
sounds from behind his head and in unison across the room stage
thinking no way could that be what it sounded like. Instinctively, he
twisted his face, seeing the girl next to him's pony now sliced off as
he was stunned seeing a thick clump of blonde hair being held over his
right shoulder entering his line of sight as the audience erupted in
applause.
"Hold it up, sweetie," whispered Justine in his ear.
He was almost not processing what had just happened as he reached up,
pinching the edge of the scrunchie, seeing the gathered section of
blonde hair. He was motionless, staring at the long pony which hung
swaying ever so slowly before his eyes still ending in lovely loose
curls that streamed from his fingers now. He took his other hand,
hoping this wasn't what it seemed as he grabbed the back of his neck,
ready to puke as he confirmed his long locks no longer were gracing his
shoulders.
"I know its nerve racking sweetie, but you just did a wonderful thing,"
said Justine, holding open a clear baggie as she took the pony dropping
it in. "The wigs they make from these are amazing. Now just come back
stage and I'll even it up and fix it for you sweetie."
As Cameron walked off with Justine, he could barely feel his feet touch
the floor, feeling his tear ducts fill. She sat him down wrapping him
with a cape before removing the headband and flex comb and then
dampened his hair spraying some water.
"You ok sweetie. You look a little frazzled," asked Justine, combing
through his damped locks. "You girls are so brave doing this in front
of everyone. I understand it's probably stressful cutting so much, but
you're so pretty you'll look adorable with just about any hairdo.
Relax, I'll only need a few minutes and you can get back to your
table."
"I've been ggggg-rowing it for years," said Cameron, as some tears
flowed and he was getting chocked up. "I didn't realize howwww. Well,
It took me forever to convince my mmm-oo-mm."
"Sssshhh. Easy sweetie!" said Justine, calming him down as she lifted
his chin and trimming. "It's not that short, and it grows fast,
especially at your age cutie. You still look gorgeous, and now you'll
just look so chic."
It only took a few minutes as all he could see were more little
clippings fall down his cape. He watched a few other ponytail less
girls walk by him as they were also getting cleaned up before finally
she switched on her hair dryer, whisking all the little wet blonde
trimmings from his cape. It didn't take her long to brush through his
hair and make a few final adjustments before she sprayed his head with
flowery pump spray and removed his cape.
"You look amazing Cammi, and you won't be needing these now," said
Justine, snapping a cell phone picture and placing the flex comb and
headband in his hand. "Go enjoy the rest of the event, and don't lose
these, ok?"
"Cammi?" said Tracey, racing in.
"Tracey, wow!" said Justine, waving over Tracey. "Don't you look
incredible in that? I bet you father must have had a heart attack
seeing you in that dress."
"Oh, it'll be nothing after he sees his little one with her new do,"
said Tracey, staring at Cameron.
"I bet. She looks adorable, doesn't she? Hard to believe you two used
to look like twins?" said Justine.
"You're not kidding?" said Tracey, giving a fake smile.
"Well, I think honestly she looks more appropriate for her age now,
especially with that dress. No reason to try to grow up too fast cutie.
Enjoy being a precious little princess while you can, and you're lucky
to have a wonderful big sister to take care of you," said Justine,
giving him a hug and then handing the headband and flex comb to Tracey.
"Maybe, you hold these so she doesn't lose them because right now she's
a little in shock, but that always happens when we cut off their
ponies. It's stressful for girls her age. Enjoy girls, and I'll see you
next shoot. You did great today, so I'm sure we'll be seeing lots of
each other."
"You're ok, right little sis?" said Tracey aloud before leaning over
and giving him a hug before whispering in his ear as Justine walked
off. "I'm sorry. I should have paid more attention to what was
happening. I didn't realize you chose this. It'll be fine. It really
looks good on you, so don't panic."
Cameron pushed her away and got up, walking over to see his reflection.
He shook his head, watching his shiny blonde hair flow as it waffled
back and forth in unison, no longer touching his shoulders or poofing
up at the crown area. He turned, seeing the back ready to explode as he
was the owner of a perfect bob, having a hard time believing he looked
even more delicate in his new hairdo. It truly was a simple cut,
hanging an inch or so above his shoulders in a pin straight precision
fashion and a few inches longer than his chin. There was nothing fancy
about how it just seemed to work perfectly with his bangs behind a
simple middle part, as there wasn't much he could do but accept the
cute look.
"Obviously dad will be happy!" said Cameron, staring at himself. "He
hated that pony and now I'll have no choice but to get some crazy short
cut."
"There you are, Cammi!" said Timothy, racing over. "Did I hear you
right? Don't go shorter than this. You look so pretty if you don't mind
me saying."
"Aren't you just so sweet?" said Tracey, as Timothy came over. "What
are you doing back here? Did you miss my sister?"
"Kind of?" said Timothy, getting embarrassed as he grabbed Cameron's
hand. "Come on Cammi. It's our turn."
"Our turn?" asked Cameron as he was being dragged off.
"We're next. Remember, I asked you if you want us to enter the dance
contest and you said yes," said Timothy.
"Did she?" said Tracey. "She's full of surprises, my little sister!"
"I did?" screamed Cameron pulling away. "I couldn't have. I..I.."
"Don't be nervous, Cammi," said Timothy. "I'll try not to embarrass
you. I picked a slow song, as no way am I a good dancer like you
cheerleaders are."
"So she told you she's a cheerleader and a good dancer as well?" said
Tracey, probing Timothy.
"Yeah, she's amazing," said Timothy, looking all starry eyed.
"Yeah, she is! Have fun, but go easy on him sis," said Tracey, dying
inside. "I'm finding all this just so fascinating that you two are
hitting it off so well."
Cameron's face was redder than his dress now as he was dragged on to
the dance floor by Timothy. No way could he look him in the eye, but it
was almost worse seeing everyone watching them slow dance. Every once
and awhile they made eye contact as he quickly looked away, as it was
bad enough being held and danced with. Mercifully it was over and they
sat down as Timothy was disappointed as they didn't win.
"I can't believe we didn't win. You're the best dancer here, and
definitely the prettiest girl," said Timothy reaching over and touching
his hand.
"Yeah, tough one," said Cameron, pulling his hand away. "Hey, what the
--!"
"Cammi, you ready or you two need a minute?" said Tracey, interrupting.
"Mom's outside."
"No definitely not! I'm wiped!" said Cameron, jumping up.
"Yeah me too! Well, it was great spending time together, Cammi," said
Timothy, standing up and giving him a hug. "Sorry if I made you too
nervous holding hands, as I guess we'll just count this as our first
date, that way next time it'll be much easier."
"Are you!" started Cameron, as quickly Tracey covered his mouth.
"We gotta go Timothy," said Tracey, ready to burst out as she quickly
yanked him away as she removed her hand over Cameron's mouth to prevent
him from swearing.
"Ok, bye girls," said Timothy waving. "I don't have my phone, so
tomorrow I'll text Tracey for your number and we'll plan something. Bye
bye."
"I'll kill you if you say a word," Cameron uttered as she dragged him
outside, barely able to contain her laughter.
"Cameron, please you've done all this to yourself. You didn't want to
see me with Logan, so look at what happened. Come on, there's mom's
car," said Tracey, quite amused.
"Holy sh--" their mother swore as she covered her mouth, seeing Cameron
get in. "Your hair! Aren't you just full of surprises, Cameron. Or
should I really just say little Cammi!"
"Mom, I can explain," said Tracey, calming down her mother.
Tracey admitted to her mother that she got taken with Logan but never
expected what had happened. They both knew that Cameron would be alone
across the room without Tracey, but maybe she should have checked in on
him a bit more. She explained that she didn't realize Cameron didn't
understand what he was doing as he checked off the wrong charity,
liking the name and not understanding the ramifications. She did her
best backpedaling as Cameron fought her until finally they pulled up at
home, ending the bickering. As they got home, she helped him undress
and lectured Tracey for her carelessness.
They headed off to bed after his mother helped him off with his dress
and makeup as Cameron was so relived to jump into his Packer pj's and
fall asleep. He tossed and turned that night, until finally his mother
woke him in the morning for breakfast.
"Come downstairs," said Donna, shaking him awake. "Let's have some
breakfast and talk!"
"Oh! Morning!" said Cameron, stopping dead in his tracks as he walked
into his kitchen.
"Told ya," said Justine, sitting at the kitchen table sipping coffee
with Donna.
"I thought you were kidding me Donna, and you really did some job on
her, Justine," said Mr. Vandermeer.
"It's cute on her, right?" said Justine, getting up and hugging
Cameron. "Good morning sunshine!"
"I'll make the call," said Mr. Vandermeer, walking out of the room as
Justine ran her fingers through Cameron's hair, softly taking away the
morning bedhead look.
"What's going on, mom?" said Cameron, rubbing his eyes. "Why is
everyone here?"
"Yeah, what's happening?" asked Tracey, racing down the stairs behind
him, hearing everyone in her kitchen. "Hey Justine!"
"Well, it seems your shots have really had an impact," said Donna.
"That and some of last night's shots."
"Really, that's awesome!" screamed Tracey.
"Calm down Tracey. Today this isn't about you for a change," said
Donna, spinning her ipad towards the kids. "It appears little Cammi's
gone viral."
"You're kidding," said Cameron, shocked.
"We're not, young lady!" said Mr. Vandermeer, coming back in. "Your
video with Logan got tens of thousands of hits and so did your Locks of
Love generosity."
"What about the stuff I did with her? Does that mean more work for us?"
said Tracey.
"The videos of you girls doing cheer and in the mall got some hits, but
nothing special," said Mr. Vandermeer. "We created two different sites
and the twin type stuff just didn't come off as well as we had hoped."
"That sucks," said Tracey, disappointed.
"Oh, it's just the beginning Tracey, so don't get bummed," said Mr.
Vandermeer, consoling her then gently nudging her aside as his text
messages were flying in. "Reality is though that little Cammi is
tracking incredibly, so we have an incredible opportunity. Look at this
ladies! We have to get moving."
"I'll run out to the car and get everything," said Justine, taking the
keys.
"No kidding!"Donna smiled. "Oh my daughter was reluctant at first, but
this time I've got the feeling she'll be extremely pleased."
"I will?" Sighed Cameron, confused as his mother smiled, looking at
him.
"Yes, honey," said Donna. "They loved the little video you did with
Logan, and you're about to do something like that again. Only I've got
a feeling you'll be a little more comfortable."
"Mooommm," Cameron whined.
"Honey, this time you'll be in your favorite jersey," said his mother,
grinning and shaking his arm excitedly. "And maybe with a player that
you've been dreaming of meeting all you life."
"You're kidding, right!" Cameron screeched. "Which jersey. Which
player?"
"Your packer jersey of course, silly," said Donna, touching his shirt
and pointing to it. "You know the guy that does a lot of commercials!
Your favorite player! How about Number 52!"
"No way!" screamed Cameron, stunned.
"Yes way sweetie," said Donna, taking a few bags from Justine. "You
guys mind just turning and giving us a moment and we'll see how this
fits. Tracey, you'll help me for a moment, honey."
"Of course," said Mr. Vandermeer, as he and Justine stepped outside the
kitchen.
Tracey pulled his jersey over his head and then dropped down his pajama
pants.
"Mom, you know I'd die to meet him, but does it have to be like this?"
whispered Cameron.
"Things have an odd way of happening in life, honey," said Donna,
pulling off his briefs. "Now step in, because if you pass this up, you
might never have a chance to meet him again."
"I know, but like this?" replied Cameron, turning beat red as he
stepped into the yellow ruffled panties.
"Like how? Now lift up your arms," said Donna as Tracey lifted his
outfit over his head before yelling out to Mr. Vandermeer and Justine.
"Ok, come back in and tell me what you think. Put on her socks and
shoes, please Tracey."
"She's so precious," said Justine, looking at her boss as Tracey lifted
his foot, placing it on her knee. "I love her in a bedazzled outfit."
Cameron looked down, watching his sister slide his foot in a little
green nylon ankle sock which had yellow and white layers of crinoline
ruffles matching the striping on the sleeve of a Packers jersey. She
then buckled his foot into the shiny yellow Mary Jane, and the moment
she dropped it from her thigh to the floor, he could no longer see it
under his huge thick poufy skirt. It was hard to imagine that they
could actually do this to a football jersey, but he was in his favorite
white Packers number 52 jersey, but never had it looked like this
before. The neckline, sleeves and numbers were bedazzled in shiny
spangles and jewels instead of traditional striping, and the white body
of the jersey sparkled in sequins. Below the jersey, his skirt was a
thick wide multi-layered Packer yellow tutu which was sewn to the
jersey, forming a one piece dress, and decorated with glitter as he
shone in every direction he looked.
"She shines like a starlet. It's perfect, but don't overdo the face
Justine, as I'll need you to handle that since Lynne's not here and
they want that little Cammi look from the video. Remember, this could
be her big break," said Mr. Vandermeer. "Now see if you can do the hair
and makeup in fifteen minutes, as we've got to strike while the iron is
hot."
"You know that's a good idea!" said Justine, looking at her boss and
nodding while she wrapped a cape over his outfit and dug her curling
iron out of her bag, plugging it in. "I don't even need that long if
Donna will help me and we'll be off."
"You know Tracey is much better with that than I am," said Donna, as
Justine handed her some polish remover. "You help her while I just go
get ready to leave."
Donna handed Tracey the polish remover and a little package of nail
stickers as Donna left the room, running upstairs. Quickly she brushed
his hair back behind his ears and then smoothed out his complexion with
a light foundation while Tracey helped put on her brother's nails. His
sister was pretty adept at this, as quickly she scrubbed off the polish
while Justine was contouring and blending. She added some blush, a
touch of pink eye shadow and lengthened his lashes as he sat there
dumfounded while she ever so carefully dipped her brush into a coral
pink palette painting his lips.
She opened a case now filled with ribbons and bows, taking out a small
package filled with tiny clear bands. She put two between her teeth and
began brushing through his hair, removing the knots as she dampened it
slightly.
"Just long enough I think," uttered Justine, taking the first small
band from her clenched teeth as she was gathering his hair on the
right.
"Ouucchh," whined Cameron as she tugged at his head. "Easy."
"Sorry sweetie," said Justine, softly touching his cheek. "You look so
adorable with your new bob, but this will look better for the shoot.
I've got to position them just right because we just don't have the
length to work with any more, and I'm trying to see if this look will
work, so just bear with me while I try a few things."
Justine jumped over to the other side and it wasn't long before she
snapped the other band. He was pretty sure he knew what she was doing
and then looked up, seeing the piping hot iron in her hand before his
eyes as she stepped back inspecting her work.
"Cute,right Tracy?"
"Oh you know how to make my little sis look so darling," teased Tracey,
giving a little smirk.
"Thanks," said Justine, moving back towards him as she tugged at the
ends of the hair, tightening each side. "Yup this is going to be
perfect. Be still for me, princess."
She brushed through his bangs with her fingers, but instead of it being
inserted there he watched it disappear beyond his left ear. He knew
the tug of having his hair curled, but not like this as she yanked his
entire head a bit as it leaned towards the left. It didn't take very
long before she unraveled it as she twisted his face a touch before she
worked on the other side.
"You're so gorgeous," said Justine, moving his head to the right and
left, checking her work as he could feel his hair swaying back and
forth on each side smacking his ears. "What a little doll you are,
Cammi!"
"Oh crap," sighed Cameron to himself as he looked down now, seeing his
left hand, seeing his sister giggle as she was enjoying his angst.
He feathered out his fingers as Justine stepped behind him, now seeing
yellow glittery decals covering his nails as Tracey was painting the
clear top coat on the other hand now. Justine pushed his head back a
little as he could feel the scratching on the right and then the left
before finally she came back out in front of him inspecting her work.
"Oh I think Mr. Mathews and his production team will be most pleased,
Justine," said Mr. Vandermeer, entering the room and nodding. "You
never cease to amaze me."
"Thanks, I'm pretty good at the adorable thing with my favorite little
model here, but just one or two more little touches and she's ready,"
said Justine, getting serious. "Close your eyes for me sweetie. A
little shorter here helps emphasize the little in little Cammi."
He closed his eyes, unsure what she meant but didn't like the sound of
it as her comb was now brushing through his bangs. She already did this
he thought as he adjusted his chin upward slightly but then felt the
chilly blade across the middle of his forehead now and within an
instant, heard the distinct snip. It didn't seem like much as quickly
he felt her minty breath softly blowing across his brows and nose,
relieving a tiny itch and before he knew it the sticky sensation of
hairspray covering his head.
"Stand up for me, Cammi," said Justine, pulling off the cape and
helping him up. "She is a cutie, this little sis of yours."
"Woah, you're amazing Justine," exclaimed Tracey, giving him a look
before calling upstairs. "Mom, she's ready and you're going to want to
see this."
"Huughh! Oh my Justine!" said Donna, covering her mouth as she raced
in. "I can't believe how young she looks."
"Thanks, it was easy. She has such delicate features as it is!" said
Justine, pleased with Donna's reaction. "Well good luck today with the
shoot Cammi."
"Thanks Justine," said Donna, hugging her. "Quick change Tracey, and
we're out of here. I'll call your father and have him meet us there."
"Perfect, I'll start the car and you can ride with me if you'd like?"
said Mr. Vandermeer, nodding his approval. "You ready cutie pie?"
Tracey ran upstairs as Donna grabbed a few bags and loaded her purse.
Cameron walked over to the hallway mirror, staring at his reflection,
feeling a shiver as he saw the over the top little Packer girl stare
back at him. He got the full view now of the sparkling bedazzled
football jersey shining in every direction, and the sickening sight of
his milky legs more than ever on display in the short yellow tutu. His
new hairdo wasn't overly elaborate, but screamed little cutie as his
slightest movement invoked the constant swaying of the singular curl
sausage rolled pigtails which were nothing like the braided ones he had
two days earlier. He lifted his finger as it was strange to see it
disappear right inside the curl and it was even weirder to see how
bobbed his hair looked, tied high on each side as these new curled pigs
barely reached the ends of his ear lobes. As if this wasn't bad enough,
a sea of green, yellow, and white ribbons framed each pigtail daintily,
but the most surprising thing of all were his bangs. They were still
straight and simple, but he had no clue how they could be fixed, moving
forward as they had been trimmed much shorter leaving a huge gap
between them and his brow line, aiding even more to his childish
appearance.
"Somebody get that," yelled Donna, grabbing a few more items as she
heard the doorbell ring as Tracey raced down the stairs now dressed.
"Timothy," said Tracey, surprised, opening the door as Cameron
immediately turned white seeing him. "What are you doing here?"
"Sorry to bother you Tracey, but I left you a few messages and when I
didn't hear back, I had my mom drive me here," said Timothy, holding
out a little red purse. "Cammi left this last night, and I thought she
might need it."
"That was nice of you. Come on in. Cammi, you have a visitor," yelled
Tracey, smiling. "Timothy is here."
"Hello, Timothy," said Donna, greeting the boy with her hands full
before yelling to Cameron.
"Mom, this is one of the boys I told you about from camp last year,"
Tracey explained. "He was at the dinner last night too."
"Cammi, did you hear your sister call you? This nice boy brought back
your purse that I guess you forgot to mention you lost," said Donna,
shaking her head. "Hustle out here and say thank you, because we have
to leave in a minute."
"Hi," said Cameron, terribly embarrassed as Timothy handed it to him
when he walked in. "Thanks."
"Wow, you look really pretty, Cammi," said Timothy, babbling. "Uumm,
not that you didn't last night. I guess I could have kept it until our
second date, but I wasn't sure if you needed it today."
"What?" slurred Donna, dropping two bags.
"You ok, Mrs. Martin?" said Timmy, quickly bending and getting them.
"Timothy, we'll talk some other time. I've gotta go," said Cameron,
quickly taking him towards the door.
"Sure, no problem. That would be nice. My mom's outside, so I need to
go anyway," said Timothy. "But where's your dance recital today? Maybe
my mom could bring me. I'd love to see it. You're an amazing dancer."
"You've seen her dance?" asked Donna, surprised.
"Oh, yes Mrs. Martin. She's a wonderful dancer," said Timothy.
"Oh, it's not dance, but take care," said Cameron, pushing him out the
door. "I kind of can't be late."
"Just a moment, Cammi. Let's not be rude here!" said Donna, taking
Timothy's arm. "Girls, take these bags and get in Mr.Vandermeer's car.
I'll be right there after I go and introduce myself to Timmy's mother."
Donna walked Timothy to his mother's car. She leaned in, talking for a
few minutes before finally hurrying back and jumping in with Mr.
Vandermeer, Tracey, and Cameron. She looked over her shoulder, giving
Cameron a wicked look, smirking as he sat silently next to his sister.
It was a quiet ride as she texted constantly, talking only with Mr.
Vandermeer until finally they got to the shoot.
Cameron quickly forgot about the incident the moment he saw his
football idol when they walked through the door. He felt like a little
pea next to the huge muscle bound star, barely able to utter a sound as
he gazed at him, star struck. His part was tiny, lasting only seconds
as he played the dainty little girl who picked up a stray football,
while handing it to the star in exchange for a single flower.
"Don't be nervous, little princess," said Clay, as Cameron flubbed his
only line. "I don't bite."
"Ok," said Cameron, in his softest voice as Clay kissed him on the
forehead, giving a little hug.
"That a girl," said Clay, tickling under his chin. "Now let's do it
again, sweetie."
They did the shoot a good two dozen times before finally the director
yelled cut. He was still in awe of Clay as he was given an autographed
picture and another hug. He stood with his mother, waiting as Mr.
Vandermeer was in deep discussions before finally emerging.
"James," yelled his mother, motioning towards a darkened booth as his
father came out.
"I didn't even know he was here?" said Cameron.
"He wouldn't miss your acting, honey. We all watched everything from
that room," said Donna. "You did great sweetie."
"Thanks," said Cameron.
"Ok, daddy and I will be right back," said Donna. "Stay with Tracey
while we do a few things with Mr. Vandermeer."
Cameron's eyes bugged as he saw Tracey coming his way with Timothy and
his mother.
"You did wonderful, dear," said Timothy's mother. "You're quite the
little actress. I'm very impressed and your parents are delightful."
"Thanks," said Cameron, giving Tracey a look. "I didn't know you were
even here."
"Yes, your mom invited us," said Timothy happily. "I told her how much
I wanted to come to support you, and she said it would be ok."
"I must say you look so darling in pigtails, and this tutu dear," said
Timothy's mother, squeezing his cheeks. "You look a little younger
today, but you look beautiful in every outfit and hairdo I've seen you
in. No wonder why my little Timothy adores you. Who wouldn't? Even
though he's been infatuated with the girls all his life, I've never let
him date or spend too much time with girls because he's so young. I
told him to play sports or play video games, but he's just not into it.
But after meeting you and your parents, I've decided to make an
exception so you two can spend some time together."
"You're kidding, right?" said Cameron, shaking his head. "Oh as
wonderful as that sounds, my mom is pretty strict, so sorry but I'm not
sure she would allow it."
"Cammi, a minute please dear," said Donna, interrupting and taking him
by the hand to a small private room. "Excuse us please, she's got to
change and we have a few things to discuss."
"Sit!" said James sternly as they laid forms all over the table as
Donna was removing the ribbons from his hair. "While you were bobbing
your hair and flirting with some little boy, look what I've been
dealing with."
"Dad, stop that. I was..." started Cameron.
"Sit down and look, Cameron," said his father, pointing to some forms
as he sat while his mother slipped off his socks and shoes. "Stop
babbling and look."
"Honey, these are your state scores that your father got this morning,
after having to meet with the principal after last night's game while
Tracey and you were out," said Donna, as she knelt, adding new socks.
"Your reading is two years behind, and your math is almost three. You
honestly have only passed since you were on the football team,
otherwise you'd be left back."
"But I wasn't, right?" said Cameron, getting teary eyed as she slipped
on new shoes.
"No you weren't, but you'll never get through freshmen year of high
school, so all of this unlikely acting has come as a huge break for
you," said James, as his mother stood him up, pulling his tutu and
jersey over his head.
"What does that have to do with school?" said Cameron. "I did this
stupid acting. Can we go home now?"
"Not exactly dear. Step out of these, please," said Donna, changing his
panties. "You see, the good news is that Clay loved you and your
agreement allows for at least six more spots with him. Bad news is they
won't be for at least three or four months, but it'll be the summer
anyway."
"Great, well at least I can get out of this stupid outfit until then,"
said Cameron, looking down at the pink panties. "Do I always have to
play a girl, and is this just to go home in? Tell Mr. Vandermeer I'm a
boy and maybe he'll be even more impressed with what a talented actor I
am, and then I can play maybe a cool kid with Clay in the next shoot."
"Honey, Mr. Vandermeer has always known you're a boy since we signed
the first agreement, and did the shoot yesterday morning. We told him
in the office and he could care less," said Donna, dropping a dress
over his head and pulling his arms through. "Honey, he's not interested
in you playing boy's parts. He thinks you're a natural being little
Cammi. Unfortunately, you looking so adorable with Logan, then bobbing
your hair and acting like a little princess in the red dress did
nothing but confirm that. Plus, the dancing and flirting with Timothy
didn't do much to make any of us think any differently."
"But mom," Cameron yelled as his father held up his hand, stopping him
while his mother zipped up the dress.
"Cameron, stop. I'm done with all the crap with you. Count your lucky
stars that you're about to get a second chance, or you'd be tossed out
of school and left back," said James firmly, as his mother was undoing
his pigtails. "Your mother and I have made our decision, and starting
tomorrow you'll be beginning strict acting lessons so you can advance.
With Mr. Vandermeer's help, that is your future. Whether you agree or
not, you are a natural at acting."
"I guess that seems true, but not like this right?" said Cameron,
grabbing the ends of his new dress. "Did I have to change again? I'm
not doing any more acting in this right?"
"Well, of course not in this, because you'll attend school in uniform,"
said Donna, picking through his pigtails a bit. "This school is for
gifted and talent artists, and goes all year round, so you'll need to
start immediately as there are no summer breaks like regular school.
Good news for you is Mr. Vandermeer has pulled strings to get you in
and your contract will be paying for it."
"And the bad news," said Cameron, as she was scraping at his temples.
"Please mom, don't even think about saying it. You know how much I hate
ties and don't even say a word about skirts. No way. No chance mom.
Please get me out of all this crap."
"No ties. No skirts and personally I don't see any bad news, except
time Cameron," said James, as Donna stepped back looking at him.
"Yeah, well just like your acting we're in no rush for you to grow up
honey," said Donna, hugging him and placing a sweater over his
shoulders. "You'll have to catch up on your reading and math, but
losing a few school years at your age is meaningless. I'm sure you
didn't know it, but your father was left back once."
"Are you saying I'm left back!" screamed Cameron, stomping his feet. "I
thought you said I wasn't!"
"No little Cammi what you mother is saying is that you'll be starting
at a grade appropriate for your knowledge and scores," said Mr.
Vandermeer, coming in and handing him a stamped enrollment form.
"You'll be starting where you belong academically, at the beginning of
middle school."
"Mom, no, that's way back, and even behind my sister!" screamed
Cameron, throwing up his hands and spinning around, catching a glimpse
of himself in the glass. "What the hell is this! It even says Cammi on
it. You promised no skirts. Why am I dressed again if we're done?"
Cameron was beat red with anger, seeing his reflection in the glass
window. It was the type of look he knew too well, this time in a one
piece flaring pink polka dot short sleeve pleated dress. On his feet
were white ankle socks and black patent Mary Janes, and across his
waist was a thin black patent belt. His hair had been released from his
pigtails, and each tight roll had been separated as it sat daintily
above his shoulders in pretty loose curls, with a small pink polka dot
bow clip holding it back a little at each temple.
"I know honey, and they're not called skirts in a school like this.
They're called jumpers, and trust me they're quite comfortable. Don't
you remember when you had on Tracey's dress on Friday and you looked so
adora?" explained Donna. "We all think this is what's best for you
honey, including your sister."
"No she doesn't," said Cameron. "She just wants me out of the way so
she can be a star and get all your attention."
"Stop that nonsense!" yelled James. "Fact is you got signed and
evaluated with the talent and she didn't! She'll get some bit parts but
right now you're the starlet and she's just another hopeful."
"She loves you very much and she's promised me she'll do everything to
be the best big sister possible so this will feel more natural," said
Donna.
"Natural! You must be kidding me!" screamed Cameron. "This is insane.
I'm not a little girl. I love football and video games. Please don't
leave me alone in some strange school like this."
"Relax, Cammi we discussed that your parents and came up with this
wonderful solution," said Mr. Vandermeer opening the door and holding
it. "Now let's all go have dinner as one big happy family."
"Cammi, this is the best day ever," said Timothy rushing in holding a
letter. "I decided to give up my summer so my mom could enroll me with
you."
"This can't be happening?" said Cameron as a tear flowed down his
cheek. "I'm not this good an actor."
"I know. I cried too," said Timothy slipping his fingers between
Cameron's. "But we'll work on it every day together."
"Mom, please," cried Cameron barely able to speak wiping his eyes.
"Please, I'm begging you."
"It's ok Cammi, I'll be there for you and you'll be the best actress
ever when you grow up," said Timothy rubbing his fingers. "Mrs Martin,
do you think after dinner Cammi and I could go see a movie together."
"Sure, why not as long as it's chaperoned!" said Donna twisting her
neck. "I already told Tracey she could see one with Logan tonight.
Let's see if she makes a better big sister tonight than she was
yesterday."
"Great..I mean of course mom sounds great. You can trust me to watch
my little sis," said Tracey totally annoyed rolling her eyes before
whispering to Cameron as she walked by him. "To watch the little star!
Looks like Timothy is getting that second date then sis. Who knew we'd
be double dating like this and don't worry I'll make sure he give you
the star treatment a little princess like you deserves."