Alexa Chapter 9: Thanksgiving Fun?
Following the dinner with my parents, my need to be Alexa grew even
more. It was like I was giving my father the middle finger every day as
I get dressed. Each day that I continued, Alex became less of a figure
around campus, and when he was around he was now an androgynous figure
not a typical college guy as I had been in the past. He would
occasionally show up for work, but I had begun thinking of him as
someone else. I was Alexa in both mind and heart. There was still some
push back at my job, which was getting harder and harder to go to. I
knew I needed the money, but I felt like there was so much more I could
do. Serving coffee, while a good job, was becoming more and more
mundane. But I needed the money so I kept going. Jenny and Katie were
always on me to quit. Jenny said she would help me out if I needed
money, but my pride wouldn't allow that. Katie even went as far as
saying she could get me a job at AJ Dunham's. The standing joke about
me working at AJ's was whether it was a job as a cook or waitress.
As far as what was going on in my heart, that was a pretty simple
matter. Jenny and I were always together. We wound up sleeping at my
apartment more than we did at hers. While Katie was appreciative that
she wouldn't have to listen to Jenny and I at night, she missed just
hanging out with us. The three of us were still constant companions,
but it was those times like in the morning that she missed and was not
afraid of stating her feelings. It did lead to a couple of arguments
that were silly in nature but always came down to Katie feeling alone.
However, a solution to this issue presented its self from an unlikely
source. A few days before Halloween I was handed a 60-day notice of
renewal of my lease. It meant that in the next two months I would
either have to sign a new lease or move. It was something that I had
completely forgotten about and didn't know what I was going to do. I
knew that I still wanted to have a home base close to Jenny and Katie
but I also knew I couldn't afford this place by myself. I began to
worry what I was going to do as I couldn't afford a place by myself. It
was Jenny who came up with the solution. The three of us should live
together in my apartment. I was actually the one who balked at it more
than Katie did. The only concern she had was that their lease went
through May and they would have to pay a penalty to get out. My concern
over it mostly centered around my parents. My mother would be all over
me about living in sin. She might have been na?ve to some things, but
she was smart enough to know that Jenny and I would still be together.
I also didn't want to piss Dick off any more. He was pretty upset about
the female influence in my life. This would put him into orbit. Then
again if saw me in the denim skirt and ankle boots I am currently
wearing he might keel over.
I also was concerned about the future. What if Jenny and I didn't make
it? Sure, we were in love now, but what if she became sick of being a
'pseudo-lesbian'? It could cause some awkward moments if we were to
break up but still have to see each other every day. I guess I was
still a little in awe that I was with her, as were most people we knew.
Brandon down the hall was constantly making snide comments about the two
of us and the few 'friends' we had away from out little group couldn't
believe that Jenny would 'settle' for me or that I was lucky enough to
be with her. The two of us didn't care what people thought. It was
Jenny's persuasion, and as my father put it, me being pussy-whipped that
convinced me that we could do it. I convinced Jenny that she would
still have a separate room, but we both agreed it probably wouldn't be
used as anything more than an oversized closet. With that decision,
plans were made for the three of us to live together beginning the first
of the year.
As the week passed, life pretty much slowed down to a normal pace as the
anticipation of the upcoming finals began to extend its grip over the
campus. Though it had not tightened down on anyone yet, it sat there
looming and soon the extra study time became the norm. It didn't stop
Jenny, Katie and I from enjoying our lives but we did give begin to
buckle down a little more on our studies. Jenny and I still were
together constantly, even if it was us just sitting sound one of the
apartments. Sure, there were the occasionally study breaks to give our
minds a rest and if Katie wasn't around the study breaks became a little
longer as we rested our minds and gave our libidos a work out.
However, the impending finals were not the only thing approaching
everyone, the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday was also a specter lying in
wait. The fear of having to deal with Dick-head again started eating at
me every day and it became a major topic at my twice-weekly appointments
with Dr. Burke, along with how I was adapting to life as Alexa. She
seemed very concerned at how I would come "out" to my family, stating
that this would be critical in my long term happiness. She seemed
worried that somehow I would not be able to do it properly. I tried to
assure I could handle it, but Debbie did not seem convinced. Even
though the thought of being caught sat in the back on my head, I knew
when Dick found out it would be on my terms.
At one of our sessions, Dr. Burke pressed me on some of the other
situations I had been facing in my normal everyday life. I explained to
her that none my professors or classmates had even given me a second
look over the last month as my wardrobe had slowly changed. With a
giggle, I even admitted I had worn a skirt to my Modern American Lit
class that very day. Sounding more like a girlfriend than a counselor
Debbie burst out, "You didn't!" I just smiled at her a nodded. "Did
anyone notice?" she asked.
"Yes one guy kept checking me out with a smile on his face. But don't
ever tell Jenny! She gets jealous the way it is," I explained to the
doctor the incident at the meat counter the day my parents came to
dinner. I also told her about two other incidents that had come up.
One was when Jenny, Katie and I were at lunch and the waiter kept making
eyes at me. Out of the corner of my eye I could see Jenny just
steaming. The rest of the afternoon was a little tense between the two
of us. Katie even tried to talk Jenny down but Jenny just ignored her
as well. It made for a short afternoon and when we got home, for one of
the first times Jenny and I went to our own apartments. About a half
hour after we got home, Jenny came over and sat next to me on the couch
where I was reading for a class. There was a genuine look of
embarrassment and shame on her face. I closed my book and just looked
at her as she slowly began sobbing.
'I'm sorry Lex," Jenny said as she broke down. I was mad enough at her
that I didn't move at first and just starred at her. "You did nothing
wrong and I don't blame that waiter for checking you out. You're a
beautiful woman. Please forgive me Alexa." I sat there and continued
to stare at her as my heart began to melt and I pulled her into my arms
and kissed her. Soon all was forgiven. I explained to Dr. Burke as I
finished relaying the story how Jenny had even said to me after the
experience at the Grocery store how she was sorry, but she a spoiled
little rich girl and I had to get used to it. Debbie chuckled at that,
but also seemed concerned that Jenny was somehow running my life. I
assured her it was not the case at all.
"What was the second time?" Debbie asked. I started to explain how that
just this last weekend Jenny and I had gone out to a club to hear a
band. Katie had to work and the two of us had been wanting to go out
and some fun. While at the bar this guy blatantly started hitting on
me. He would try and lean in and make a move or give me a kiss. I was
able to move out of the way each time and I could also see that it was
getting to Jenny. I noticed she had enough of this guy and tuned a
planted a huge, passionate kiss on me. I was no dummy and I returned my
girlfriends kiss with everything I had. I think that the two of us were
a little tipsy made the kiss a little more dramatic than it probably
was. They guy was in shock and Jenny and I started giggling. The guy
even got a little mad until the bartender warned him that he better not
say anything and to get lost. Jenny and I both thanked the bartender
and thought we better head out. I did go on to explain to Dr. Burke how
Jenny and I did give the Uber drive a little show on the way back to our
apartment.
The rest of this latest appointment with my counselor had gone well. I
had begun to feel comfortable around her. She was becoming more of a
friend than just my counselor and I felt like I wanted to do something
for her. I remembered that neither Jenny or Katie had any plans for the
week end so I did something that I hadn't planned on. "Dr. Burke, are
you available Saturday night? I would like to invite you over for
dinner. I 'll cook. The three of us usually do something on Saturdays
anyways. It would be great to have you over because I want to do
something for all the support you have shown me."
Debbie took time to ponder an answer to my question. "First of you
don't owe me anything. You have been a wonderful patient to work with.
But I would love to come over on Saturday. Are you sure it's not a
problem?" she asks as I shake my head no. "Okay it is a date. As long
as you make me one promise."
Confused I ask, "What would that be?"
"Your father is not invited," Debbie states which gives me a laugh. I
ask her if she has any allergies or preferences, which she has neither.
We make plans for her to come over around 5:00 and I make my way out
with a spring in my step. Whenever I leave Debbie's office I feel good,
but for some reason today I feel great. I have become much more
confident as Alexa; I was a better person as Alexa and I had the most
beautiful girlfriend in the world. If I hadn't driven to my appointment
I probably could have flown home. That giddiness carried me through the
door of the girls' apartment where I found Jenny on the couch attempting
to write a paper. I came up behind her and gave her a big hug and even
bigger kiss.
'Somebody is in a good mood tonight," Jenny says following the kiss.
"Yes I am," I say as I make my way around the couch and cuddle up to
Jenny. I continue to try and kiss her and finally she relents and puts
down her computer and takes me in her arms and begins returning the
kisses. I slowly begin massaging her breasts and then her rear as I
kiss my way down her neck to her chest. Jenny just lets me take control
and I am willing to take whatever she is willing to give me and soon I
have her skirt up around her waist and begin working her panties off
her. Jenny begins the same as I had decided to wear a skirt today as
well. She was soon surprised as she reached under my skirt and felt my
bare thigh. A low moan of approval escapes Jenny's lips as she begins
working my panties down my body. Soon the two of us are in the throes
of ecstasy on the living room couch. While not a first for us, it was a
first as Katie could be home at any minute. As we began to recover from
our moment of bliss, Jenny just smiled at me and stroked my face. I
could feel my smile from ear to ear. "Sorry for interrupting your
paper," I say.
"You are more than forgiven Lex," Jenny says and give me a long kiss.
Our moment of happiness is soon interrupted as we heard the door begin
to open. Jenny jumped from the couch and ran into the bathroom as I
tried to straighten myself up a little. Katie came through the door and
I tried to put on a good act. Katie sat down next to me on the couch.
She begins asking me about my appointment with Debbie but she stopped
mid-sentence as it her appeared her hand was trying to pull something
out from underneath her. Jenny emerged from the bathroom at the exact
moment as Katie produced a pair of panties that had been wedged in the
cushions of the couch.
"Whose are these?" Katie asks. Jenny and I both blush a little at the
questions placed before us. Feeling a little bold I answered my
"sister's" question.
"They're hers," I say as I point and Jenny and begin a mock crying fit
on Katie's shoulder. "She attacked me!" At that point Jenny came over
and playfully slapped the back of my head.
"You are so full of shit Alexa Marie!" Jenny says as the two of us fall
into a mini wrestling match that is more full of giggles than anything
else. As Jenny rolls over on top me and pins me to the couch we
suddenly hear Katie behind us.
"Ewww! New house rule! Underwear must be worn in the living room at all
times," Katie averts her eyes and moves off the couch. It is at that
moment Jenny and I both realize that we are giving Katie a full little
view of what is underneath our skirts. Bashfully we straighten
ourselves out on the couch but continue to giggle. We look over at
Katie who is shaking her head and laughing at the same time. 'What am I
go to do with you two?" she asks rhetorically. Jenny and I restart our
wrestling match and I warn her that I will get her. Jenny tells me to
bring it on which brings more laughter from the two of us before we
finally settle down enough to be able to tell the girls about my
invitation.
"So what are you two doing Saturday evening?" I ask.
Katie being the responsible one present simply states nothing and asks
why. The little blonde girl next to me gets a little big for her
britches "Defending my title as couch wrestling champion," This earns a
tickle attack form her 'competitor' before we attempt to settle down
again. I don't know what it is, but since we started dating, Jenny has
become a little sillier. I am not complaining at all. It has made for
some interesting times on various occasions, but it is so different from
the serious girl I met two years ago. I didn't think it would be
possible but I love her even more with this development. After being
admonished by Katie, again, for our behavior we settle down again and I
continue on.
"Good" I say "because I invited Debbie here for dinner. I owe her so
much so I thought I would include her on our Saturday night meal. You
two okay with that?" I ask. Katie readily agrees as she enjoys Debbie
the few times she has had the opportunity to be around her. It is the
other one that proves to be a bit of a problem. A pout come across her
face.
"I was going to see if my girlfriend wanted to go out." The pout soon
turns into a big smile. 'If it was anyone else I would really get you
but because it is Dr. Burke you off the hook." That little comment gets
the tickle attack going once again before we are admonished, again, by
Katie. We stop the activities and yell at Katie. "Okay MOM!"
As Saturday rolls around we finish cleaning the girls' apartment and I
begin cooking dinner. Katie does not leave the two of us alone even
once. She pretty much has let it be known that she does not trust the
two of us being left alone. Jenny and I try and be on our best behavior
but we do find a way to sneak in a few moments alone. After all the
cleaning was completed and the dinner was prepped and ready to go the
process of getting ready began. I was a little nervous as to what I
should wear. Boy, am I getting to be more of a girl all the time. As
usual the advice offered to me was coming from both sides. Katie said I
should dress more casually as this was just supposed to be a casual
dinner amongst friends. And as usual Jenny thought I should go all out
and dress up. While most of the time I do lean towards the casual look
favored by Katie, partially because of trying to ease in to Alexa taking
over, I decide on a dress. Of course, the is followed by 'accusations'
that I have brain washed and that I was just sucking up to Jenny. I did
compromise a little as I chose a simple blue dress accessorized by a
rather large scarf and a pair of knee high tan leather boots. Jenny
heartily approves of my choice as she willing expressed by a long kiss
as I come in to the apartment from my own.
"Love the outfit Lex. Katie's going to be disappointed," Jenny says.
"I don't care. I always dress down when I see Dr. Burke. I want her to
see this side. Plus, there is another reason." Jenny looks at me with
questioning eyes. "You like it." This comment earns me another kiss.
This time I break the kiss as I knew I wanted to get some things prepped
before Deb shows up. I go to the kitchen and pull out he chicken and
season it so the spices can work their magic before I begin cooking.
Jenny puts the last touch on the living room, making sure everything
looks good. As the two of us are performing our tasks, we began to
wonder what was taking Katie so long. Soon our question was answered as
out of her room she came, and did she look great. She was wearing a
Maroon top of some sort with a black and white patterned skirt,
patterned tights with her brown knee high boots. She was covered by an
over-sized grey sweater. She looked great. Jenny and I just stared at
her with open mouths.
'What?" Katie asked defensively. "Are you two the only two that get to
dress up around here?"
I ran over to Katie and gave her a hug and told she looked great and
then told her that I was definitely borrowing some clothes from my "big
sister' which earned me light punch arm then a bashful thanks. Jenny
was a little more teasing in her response to the look. 'It only took
two years and a new sister but I finally rubbed off on you. You do look
good Kate," Katie promptly stuck her tongue out as her response to
Jenny.
"Thanks both of you. I do like how it looks. Oh by the way little sis,
the tank is yours," Katie says with a giggle as she does a little turn
and sits down in the living room. Both Jenny and I sit down on the
opposite end of the couch. Unlike most of the time, when we are greeted
with a moan or a head shake, Katie just smiles. "As much as I like to
complain, you two are very cute together. You bring out the best in
each other," This comment brought a huge smile to not only my face but
Jenny's as well. Jenny looked up at me from her position snuggled up
against me and gave me a huge kiss that seemed to last a little linger
than it probably should. Soon we were interrupted with a cough. "I
said you were cute, I did not give permission for a make out session,"
Jenny broke the kiss and soon the three of us were on the couch laughing
away. A knock at the door broke the group laugh fest. Katie went to
the door while Jenny and I stood and straightened ourselves up.
Katie answered the door with a loud, "Dr. Burke come on in. Oh, you
brought wine. Thank you so much. Come in."
"Thank you Katie. It's good to see you and please, out of the office
call me Debbie." Katie nodded as Debbie came in and Jenny and I stepped
closer. "Hello Jenny. Good to see you again as well and Alexa? My you
look very nice this evening. I love the dress. Little different than I
am used to seeing."
Jenny extended her hand to greet the doctor while I blushed. As Jenny
turned around she gave me a quick kiss and then told me "Knock it off.
"You know you are attractive," And I received a light slap on the
shoulder followed by another quick kiss as a form of penance. I walked
towards the kitchen, taking the bottle from Katie's hand and went to
pour four glasses. While I am pouring, I hear Jenny playing hostess as
three of the four most important women in my life began chatting away.
When I return to the living room I find that Debbie has taken Katie's
normal position on the couch and Katie has taken the chair leaving Jenny
and I in our normal spot, where out of habit, as we both sit Jenny leans
back into me. Debbie picks up on this but doesn't say a word. About a
half a glass of wine into the group chat, I realize I need to get
cooking. I stand and head to the kitchen to get ready. Realizing I
need some help, I call out to Jenny to come give me a hand. I had
decided that having Jenny's limited skills helping now would be better
than an argument later, where her skills are much better.
"Alexa cooks?" Debbie says in shock.
"She's a great cook," Katie says. Her pronouncement is heartily agreed
to by Katie. "I never knew until I met her," Jenny says with a giggle
as she tries to steal another kiss from me. OK I gave in willingly to
her attempted 'theft'.
"I forgot about that. That is when Alexa made her first bold move.
Wasn't it going to get some food from her apartment?" Debbie inquires.
Katie rises from the chair. "Yes it was, but she is an excellent cook.
But will you excuse me. I need to check on the love birds. We have had
issues when they are left alone, especially in kitchens." With that
Katie heads to the kitchen. Before she can reach it, I break the kiss
and yell out.
"I heard that." I am met with a giggle from Jenny before another quick
kiss and I get back to cooking.
Katie laughs and turns to Dr. Burke. "Debbie, would you care to join me
at the counter? I think we might eat sooner if we both are out here
keeping an eye on these two."
"I would love to. In fact, I think would like to watch the cook in
action," Debbie says grabbing her glass and joining Katie at the counter
stools to watch us cook.
"Oh you will get a show. Like I said Alexa is an excellent cook. Her
help needs some work though," Katie says. Jenny promptly sticks her
tongue out at her roommate and then moves to my side asking what she
could do
"Don't feel bad Jenny. I can barely make pot noodles," Debbie says as
she takes her seat. Jenny asks what pot noodles are and Debbie explains
that they are what we would call cup of noodles or Raman. This starts a
conversation that goes on about the little differences between America
and the U.K. While it was interesting to hear some of the names
everyday things are called here compared to "across the pond", I soon
realized that I had lost my help in the kitchen. I give Jenny I minor
lecture to get back to work and she apologizes in the little girl voice.
It was fun having the conversation while I was cooking and soon I had
dinner baking in the oven. Rather than move back to the living room,
the conversation continued right there in the kitchen with Katie and
Debbie at the Counter while Jenny had slid up next to me as I leaned
against the counter. It was a setting that seemed so natural that it
reinforced me feelings that Alexa was who I was truly meant to be.
Debbie kept staring at Jenny and I as we talked. It finally started to
get to me, so I looked at her and said, "Deb, are your working right
now?" with a grin on my face. She realized she had been busted and
blushed a little. "Can't turn it off, can you? That's OK. We do make
an interesting pair." With that I leaned in and gave Jenny a kiss and a
little "Eskimo" kiss as well. God, I am lucky to have this woman by
side.
"I was hoping that I could, but you two are such an interesting pair.
You always come off as a little nervous, a little uptight. But here you
are so relaxed, and dare I say natural. I am sure that being at home
helps, but there seems more to it than that. Maybe it's Jenny. All I
know is you seem very happy. But that is the end of my work for the
evening. I'm sorry," Debbie concludes.
"You have nothing to be sorry for Debbie" Jenny states. 'You are seeing
Alexa at her best right now. I would think it would be hard to get some
patients to talk."
Debbie laughs. "It is. Some act like they are being interrogated, but
once you gain their trust, they can surprise you."
"I don't think Debbie wants to talk shop," I say. "She is here as a
guest plus now I can grill her," I say. All of us laugh at my comment,
but I can see Debbie give me a slight nod, realizing I had bailed her
out a little/ I am sure she is nervous that she might be under some
questioning from both my girlfriend and Katie. I'm glad I could help
because those two don't need to know everything, even though they pretty
much do.
Katie jumps in to start the questioning. "So Deb how did you wind up at
the University of Minnesota?"
"Well, I hate to admit this but it was a man. I was finishing my
graduate work at John's Hopkins in clinical psychology where I met his
Doctoral candidate. He was a lovely man, tall, charming. I was
smitten. He had received an offer from here to begin working in their
Psychology department as an associate professor so I followed him and
was accepted into the doctoral program. However, he was not a very good
professor and after a year they let him go. He returned to Baltimore as
fast as possible. So here I was. Enrolled in the doctoral program,
4000 miles from home and no boyfriend, but I came to love it. I love
the lakes; I love the city. Much less hectic than London or even
Baltimore. But I do have one question. How can you stand the cold?"
"Good question," Katie replies as we all laugh.
"You don't really ever stand it; you just learn to tolerate it" I say as
the timer goes of indicating that it was time for the finishing touches
of my dinner. I ask Jenny to hand me the two hot pads as I pull the
baking dish from the oven and add the peas and cover the dish to let set
up. "Dinner will be served in about five minutes." I announce and then
ask Jenny if the table was already.
"Is there somewhere I could freshen up?" Debbie asks and Katie directs
her to the bathroom.
"I'm so glad you invited her," Katie says to me. "I really like her and
she doesn't seem like a doctor at all."
"Well she is a person Kate," I say. "What do you think, she has a
portable couch that she travels with?" My comment earns me a finger
flashed in my direction which Debbie sees as she returns.
"I must have missed something," Debbie says. "Are you two always
getting after each other? She asks Katie.
"Well Debbie if you must know the truth. I consider Alexa my little
sister. And at times, like all little sisters she needs to be put in
her place." Katie says as she gives me a stare down which I respond to
by sticking out my tongue at my big sister. Debbie laughs at the two of
us.
"I understand completely Katie. I have a little sister, Stephanie. She
gets a little uppity at times and needs to be brought back down to
earth. You three would like her. She's not much older that you three
and she does have a love of boots like you do Alexa. By the way, those
boots are lovely. Where did you get them?"
"To be honest I can't remember. Nordstrom, I think." I look at Jenny
for an answer. She nods her head. "one thing I have seemed to have
caught from Jenny is my love of shoes."
Katie laughs out loud. "I'll say. I bet between the two of them they
have about 100 pairs. I say it's about a 75 - 25 split though."
Jenny takes offence to the numbers Katie is spouting "Hey. I'd say it's
60 - 40!"
Katie laughs at her roommate. "Okay 70 - 30," Jenny is forced to agree,
because she knows Katie is right. I watch Debbie during this exchange.
She seems to be enjoying it. I 'm glad. As a counselor, she has been a
huge help. But here, she seems like a good friend.
"I never asked. What are we having this evening?" Debbie says as the
three women take their places.
"It is Cuban Chicken with Sweet peppers and Yellow Rice," I say.
"Sounds interesting" Debbie says enthusiastically. And soon all of us
are enjoying the meal. I receive compliments from each of the women,
none more important and uplifting to me than the one I receive form
Jenny. A compliment and quick kiss has that effect on me. Soon dinner
has been completed with stories being told by the three hostesses about
each other as well as quizzing Debbie on her life. Knowing Katie as
well as I do, I could see her trying to angle towards some more personal
questions, especially if it is in regards to Debbie's love life. Katie
thinks she is the ultimate matchmaker and if she meets somebody who is
single, she goes on a mission to find someone for them. She even tries
to take credit for Jenny and I, but we love to shoot her down, reminding
her that he only thing she did to introduce us was to move into a dorm
room. Luckily Katie didn't go too far in her questioning, and Debbie
was able to dodge some more personal questions.
I had made a nice Apple Crunch pie for desert, and when I offered Debbie
a piece and coffee, she waved it off. "I really don't think I could eat
anything more. That was a wonderful meal Alexa. I am not used to
eating so well. My compliments to the chef." I blush once again. I
ask Debbie if she would at least like some coffee. "No thank you. I do
need to be going. I had told some friends I would meet them later. I
almost wish I hadn't. You three are so enjoyable to be around." I
can't help but smile at my counselor's comment and soon she is making
her way out. All of us say we must do this again and Debbie indicates
that next time she will not have made plans to leave so early. She said
she felt bad about leaving but she did want to meet up with us before
the holiday. As we say our goodbyes, I feel like Debbie has truly
become a friend and not just my counselor. As soon as Debbie is out the
door, the inevitable argument over who has to do the dishes comes up. I
always find a way to get out of, claiming that since I cooked I
shouldn't have to do any washing. After the normal argument, my
'sister' and girlfriend finally agree to both do it. As I relax on the
couch, I listen to the laughter of the girls coming from the kitchen and
smile, I realize this is what I always wanted. My opinion of that soon
changed as I was joined on the couch by girlfriend. As Jenny cuddled up
to me a gave me a kiss. I realized this is what I always wanted.
***********************************************************************
The week and a half following our little dinner party passed at a normal
pace, but the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday loomed and I began to get
nervous. How was I going to handle my family? Not only would I have to
deal with Dick-head and my brothers, but there would also be aunts and
uncles and cousins and some them had kids. Thanksgiving was a big event
in my family, much more than Christmas so I knew that this would not be
the day to come out as Alexa, and the thought of being Alex made me
nervous. I wished that I could get Jenny to come, but I didn't want to
take away from her family's celebration. I somewhat retreated into my
old Alex shell on this. The confidence of Alexa slipped away as the
holiday approached. I didn't realize that is was that apparent until
Jenny called me on it Thursday night, one week before Thanksgiving.
We were at my apartment for a change and I was on the couch watching my
favorite TV show, The Blacklist, as Jenny sat at the kitchen table
working on her final paper. I was watching, but not paying attention to
Red's latest plan as I kept thinking about the holiday, just a week
away. I must have been fidgeting or something because the next thing I
knew, Jenny has sat next to me and laid her head on my shoulder. I kept
up appearances and put my arm around her but inside I was feeling rather
small. As a commercial came on, Jenny popped her head up and asked
"What time is dinner at your parents?"
Confused I looked at her for a second and answered with, "Huh? I mean 1
probably. Usually is. Why?"
"Well, I have a proposal for you. We go to your parents, have dinner
with them and I meet your brothers, then we drive to my parents. They
usually don't eat until 6 and you can meet my family," The huge smile
across Jenny's face let me know that this proposal was something she was
very sure of but it still confused me.
"Why would you do that? Won't that be a little too much running
around?" I asked as a look of shock must have come over my face.
Jenny's smile became more intimate, more caring.
'Why would I do that? You are so dense sometimes. I have seen how you
have been acting the last few days. You have retreated into a your
shell a little. It took me day or two to realize that it was going to
your parents for Thanksgiving that had put you in this funk. It was
also then that I realized you hadn't asked me to come. Why not?" Jenny
said with disappointment on her face. The look melted my heart. I knew
at that moment I had made a mistake
"I didn't want to mess up your plans, I'm sorry?" I responded.
"Mess up my plans? You are the most important person in my life. Why
wouldn't I want to spend a holiday with you?" And with that she
enveloped me in a huge hug. Tears were trying to form but I fought them
back. For the one millionth time in the last two months I thanked god
for Jenny. She slowly released her hug and moved back a little. "Now
we have to go shopping to find you some clothes," And the next afternoon
we did, only this time it was for Alex. As we were walking through
Macy's downtown, I leaned in and made a little admission to my
girlfriend.
"Shopping isn't as fun as Alex." This earns a giggle and agreement from
Jenny.
Soon it is Thanksgiving morning and the three of us fighting to get
ready. I had the least amount of work to do, as Alex didn't need much
to get ready. I did wear panties underneath my new pants but decided
that wearing a camisole or bra under my new dress shirt might be pushing
it. Jenny had volunteered to work, so Jenny and I decided to get ready
at my apartment, but knowing we were on a schedule I waited for her at
the girls' apartment. This gave me a chance to talk to Katie. I felt
like we hadn't talked in a while what with our schedules and just the
fact that Jenny and I were always together. Rather than sit around I
sat with her as she got ready.
"So are you ready for this?" Katie asked. "I wish I was going today. I
would love to see Adam and Danny's reaction to Jenny. Is Adam still
going out with that bitch Bethany Johnson?"
"I think so and I know Danny has been seeing Lynn Elliot. Not sure if
she is going to be there though."
"Really?" Jenny asks questioning my brother's choice in girlfriend. "I
always liked her but she is a little odd. Well at least you will have
the best-looking girlfriend there."
"I have the best-looking girlfriend anywhere," I say with a smile.
Katie laughs at that comment as she moves out of the bathroom and
finishes getting dressed. I head back into the living room and soon she
is complete and joins me in the living room. Standing there she looks
at me and begins speaking.
"Are you going to be OK Alex? I am worried. Don't let Dick get to you
OK? And if Danny and Adam become assholes, just tell them to fuck off
and point at Jenny. They will be so jealous of their little brother."
I got up and gave Katie a big hug and thanked her for her concern. I
told her I'd be fine since we were only going to be there a short time.
Just as we were breaking our hug, through the door came one of the most
beautiful sights ever.
"I can't leave you two alone for a minute, can I?" Jenny said stealing
Katie's normal comment.
"Wow," both Katie and I say in unison as we look at Jenny in an Eggplant
colored cap sleeved dress and 4 inch strappy heels. She was gorgeous.
"Little much for Faribault Jenny," Katie says as I am left speechless.
Jenny's response to her roommate's comment was to stick out her tongue.
The three of us giggle as Katie indicates she needs to go and wished us
a good time today. I felt sorry for Katie having to work on
Thanksgiving, but as she said her and her mother don't do much plus she
made double wages and the tips were good. Waving Katie good bye, Jenny
and I get our coats and start to head for the door before Jenny says she
forgot something. She runs back to her room and returns with a garment
bag and her purse. When I ask what is in the bag, Jenny mumbles a bit
before saying that it is the Halloween costumes. I just nod and we head
out.
As the drive down I-35 progresses, I become a little more nervous with
each passing mile. Jenny just holds on to my hand as I sit behind the
wheel of her car. As much as I want to see my mother and show Jenny off
to my brothers, I dread seeing my father. The last encounter with him
had put me in the frame of mind that I needed to be Alexa, but here I
was heading to his home dressed in my boy clothes. As we exited the
highway, Jenny leans over and gives me a light kiss on the cheek "Lex I
will be there. Just try and ignore your father OK?" I just nod as the
nerves kept me from saying anything. Soon we had pulled up to my
parents' house just outside of town. Jenny comments on how beautiful it
was. My parents' house sat on the last 10 acres of land that was once
the family farm. My dad liked the seclusion plus the fact he could hunt
turkeys on the land in the spring. As we walk to the door I begin to
shake ever so slightly. Once again Jenny tries to calm my nerves. She
gives me a quick hug and whispers I love you into my ear. That seems to
help a little. I reach for the front door and hold it open for my
girlfriend as we cross into the awaiting storm.
I take Jenny's coat and hang both mine and hers in the entry closet.
Taking her hand, we enter the large family room that is filled with
family, my brother Dan is the first to see us. He dropped the glass he
was holding as he starred at Jenny and I standing on the step leading
into the room. At first my mother starts to admonish him, but notices
the look on his face. As she began getting up and without looking back
she yells out "Alex, Jenny. You're here!" My brother Adam, who had been
sitting next to my mother also stands and I watch his eyes bug out and
his mouth drop to the floor. The only other sound I hear is my father
groan as our presence has announced. I can tell this is going to be a
fun day.
As my mother comes to greet me and Jenny, I keep shifting my focus
between my two brothers while sporting a smug smile. I notice the
blonde hair of my brother Adam's girlfriend sitting next to his position
on the couch. I lead Jenny into the main area off the family room
following my mother's hug. "Adam, Danny and Bethany. I'd like to
introduce you to my girlfriend, Jenny Thompson." And then one by one I
introduce Jenny to Adam, Danny and Bethany. When I came to Bethany I
instantly saw the claws begin to come out. Following the introductions,
Jenny turns and says hello to my father, who simply grunts a hello as he
is too engrossed in the Lions and Bills game on TV. Before Jenny and I
can sit down, mother asks Jenny to give her a hand and asks Bethany to
come too. Jenny shoots me a nervous look as the thought of being in a
kitchen without me at her side is terrifying. I give her a quick kiss.
"You'll be okay. I gave mom a heads up. I'm the one who is scared,"
That earns me a little kiss and a quick smile before my girlfriend is
led by my mother to the kitchen. Adam give a look to his girlfriend and
gives her a little head gesture to follow. Reluctantly, Bethany gets up
and heads to the kitchen, leaving me alone with my brothers and my
father.
"Where did you score her little brother?" Danny asks. While Danny can
be a macho jerk, we have always gotten along despite our differences.
When I tell him that she is Katie's roommate, he laughs and asks "Katie
got any more roommates? She is hot Alex. Huge score." my brother says
as he gets up from the chair and give me a high five. I feel a little
rush by that. It feels good to get his approval.
"Dad says he completely pussy whipped. Practically needs permission to
take a piss" My brother Adam says. My father chuckles as he hears this.
"Yeah she's hot. You doing her yet baby brother?" Adam asks rather
rudely. I shouldn't be surprised because he for all intense and
purposes, Dick Jr. "Come on Alex, you given her the high hard one?"
"Shut the fuck Adam!" I tell my brother. "It's none of your fucking
business."
"Hey watch the language you little shit," Dick says glaring at me. It's
then he notices what I am wearing. He shakes his head. "I see you
haven't grown any balls, still letting the piece of ass dress you."
"What's wrong with what I am wearing?" I ask as I look down at my Marron
dress shirt and black dress slacks. Okay it is a little overdressed for
this group. I notice they are all in jeans and flannel shirts, but
since I am meeting her parents I agreed that I should look nice.
"Do you see any of us wearing church clothes?" my dad asks. "Why the
fuck are you dressed up? I swear this chick has your mind so fucked up
you would wear a dress if she asked," I think to myself if he only knew
the truth. I begin to try and to explain why I am dressed up.
'I am dressed like this because I am going to meet her parents later."
"Who the fuck are her parents?" Adam asks. "The King and Queen?" Adam
started laughing at his own stupid comment.
"She's a Thompson," my Dad says mockingly. "I guessing he has to go
suck up to them. Genuflect and all that shit." Between my father and
Adam, I am beginning to get mad at all the crap I am getting, then again
it wouldn't be a holiday if these two weren't pilling on.
Danny looks at me in shock. "She's a Thompson? How the hell did you
manage that?"
I blush slightly at my brother's comment and shrug my shoulders. "I
really don't know. She made the first move."
Danny falls back in the chair in astonishment, however my father does
not take it well. "She's gotten you blushing like a little girl now.
God, you are fucking pussy Alex. Every fucking time I see you, you are
more of pussy than the last time I saw you. Get the fuck out of here for
now," My father says as he moves to the garage door I am assuming to get
another beer. Feeling like I am ready to cry and taking my father's
instruction I get up and head towards the kitchen. I make it as far as
the dining room, where I pull out a chair and slump down at the table.
I try to avoid an outright break down, but still silently weep at the
comments made by my family. My little episode is soon broken up by my
mother entering the dining room with something for the table. She takes
one look at me before turning back to the kitchen and calling for Jenny
to come out. My mother places the dish on the table and quickly moves
to the family room.
Jenny appears at the door way and instantly sees me and sits down next
to me and pulls me into her. "Let's get out of here," I say. "I can't
take it anymore. I hate that bastard and Adam is almost as bad," Jenny
just tries to hold me as I let the venom out.
"It will be OK Lex. We'll eat and then head to my folks. It would be
rude to leave now. What did he say this time?" Jenny asked.
"Just the typical things. He did say I probably wear a dress if you
asked," I say looking up at her giving her a slight grin. "Would you
tell me to wear that one?" I ask with a mischievous grin on my face.
"Only if you're a good girl," Jenny replies with a smile followed by a
long kiss. My mother happens to walk into the dining room at that very
moment. I can hear her try and act all flustered and continue into the
kitchen. Jenny and I chuckle at the apparent embarrassment of my
mother. Jenny stands and puts out her hand and I take it as she leads me
to the kitchen.
Soon my Uncle Bob and Aunt Karen show up with their two kids, Ashley 15
and Robbie 9. Bob is my father's younger brother who has always looked
up to my dad and tried to emulate him. He had similar crass comments
for me the one time he got me alone and I once again felt the sudden
urge to leave, only to have Jenny calm me down again. I don't mind my
Aunt Karen, but she is no help what so ever. When I was younger I
always thought that she and my mother were great friends. But it seemed
like every time she walked out of the kitchen, my mother would make a
little comment about her. Never a direct shot, just a subtle one. I
was amazed. I never knew that my mother had it in her. Jenny and I
couldn't stop from giggling. The time I spent in the kitchen helping my
mother made the day a little easier. Jenny and Bethany did not.
Bethany has always been a bitch and that side showed in her attitude
towards Jenny. Jenny is not a person you want to mess with, and after a
few of Bethany's comments, Jenny came right back at her. A few times I
thought a cat fight would break out, but luckily (or sadly) it did not.
Dinner was another adventure. Jenny and I sat next my mother on one end
of the table, and other then the kind looks my mother gave us we had to
deal with all kinds of looks. My father, uncle and Adam kept giving me
disgusted looks. My brother Danny was constantly starring at Jenny in
awe and I got a little mad, but since the bozo had been nice to me I
took it in stride. Bethany just stared at Jenny with a scowl on her
face all through the meal and soon I saw Adam doing the same. I felt
like it was the two of us against the whole family. While the dinner
seemed to drag on, but as I looked at my watch it had actually gone
quicker than planned. Once the pie was served and the dishes had been
cleared, the men moved off to the family room to finish watching the
Lions and begin watching the Cowboys and consume more beer. Sneaking
out early did allow me to miss the annual touch football game that took
place at halftime of the Cowboy game. The family game usually involved
one person getting pissed at another and a fight taking place. Usually
it was my brothers but I had seen my father and a few of my other uncles
get into it. I hadn't been immune to it over the years, but as I was
much smaller than my brothers and my cousins who were not here, I
usually ended up on the short side of it.
With pleading eyes, I finally got Jenny to agree to leave after most of
the dishes had been washed. I went to the family room to say good bye
to my father. The "Yeah, whatever. Have fun with the rich people"
comment from my father was even more condescending than ever. At least
he didn't question my manliness. And after dodging the inevitable offer
of leftovers from my mom, Jenny and I could leave. I had never been so
relived in my life to get out of my parents' house. As we began driving
down the highway I thanked Jenny again for coming. She told me not to
worry, that having to deal with each other's families was part of being
in a relationship.
We hadn't made it very far when Jenny asks me to pull into the Rest Area
up ahead. Thinking she needed to use the rest room I saw no problem
with it and soon we are parked at the front door. Rather than getting
out of the car right away, Jenny looks at me. "Lex, I am so sorry about
your folk's house, but I knew it was going to be tough and my parents'
house will definitely be interesting. I know how difficult it is being
Alex, so I came up with a little plan." With that she reached into the
back of the car and grabbed the garment bag. "I bought this last week
and had it tailored. I would like you to wear it, but it is your
choice. I think you will feel a whole lot better if you do though," The
smile on Jenny's face assured me that this wasn't a set up so I got out
of the car and she followed me in carrying the garment bag.
The nice thing about these new Rest Area bathrooms is that they not only
had a men's restroom and a women's restroom but they also had a family
restroom. Jenny and I slipped into the vacant room and locked the door.
Jenny hung the garment bag on the door and began unzipping it she
produced what appeared to be a Pinstripe Suit and a wide collared white
dress shirt. She then reaches in and produces something that I am
almost dying to wear, a silky tank top. A smile slowly forms across my
face as I quickly tear off my current clothing and begin to put on the
suit. It is when I am first buttoning the shirt that I realize it is
actually a women's blouse. Not saying anything I begin to put on the
pants and realizes they are women's as well. I suddenly get nervous and
tell Jenny I can't wear a women's suit. She smiles at me and says "It's
really not a women's suit. Well, sort of. The pants are but the jacket
is a man's. I saw the women's suit and had to get it for you. I've got
the matching women's jacket and skirt at home." I give Jenny a hug to
thank her. As I put on the new suit, I feel completely relaxed again.
After the day at my parent's place, the feel of the suit was like
heaven. She then produced a pair of black block heeled women's boots
that when I put them on looked like I was wearing cowboy boots. "There,
no one will know the difference, unless you keep it unbuttoned like
that," as she points at me as I see the lace on the tank partially
exposed. I finish dressing and we return to the car and hit the road.
My mind and body more relaxed then it had been all day.
An hour later we were driving past the gates into Jenny's parent's
estate. I had never seen it at night and it was completely lit up. It
looked like something from a movie. It seemed even larger and more
regal than it had the one other time I had been here. I started to get
much more nervous, it wasn't because of how I was dressed however. I
was finally going to meet Jenny's family, and I mean the whole family.
On the drive, Jenny got a text from her cousin Julie asking her where
she was and complaining that Jenny's grandmother was getting wound up as
to Jenny's whereabouts. Jenny was none too happy to hear that the
family was at her parent's. She had assumed that it was just going to
be her parent's and the two of us for dinner and not the whole Thompson
clan. As we parked I could see the nervousness in Jenny. I leaned over
and gave her a kiss. "I am the one that's supposed to be nervous
remember? I am the one messing around with their daughter."
"It's not that, Lex. It's my grandmother. I don't care what my
parent's think. It's my grandmother's approval that concerns me. I
told you I saw her a couple of weeks ago and she kept asking about you.
What you are like, when you were coming to meet her. I was hoping we
could go see her this weekend. But now there is no avoiding it," I
tried to calm her fears but nothing seemed to pull her out of her funk.
We parked the car in the circular drive way at the front of the house
and went in the main doors to the house, rather than coming in the side
as we had when we came and picked out our Halloween costumes. To say
the view from the Grand Entry was impressive would be an understatement.
From the foyer, we could see directly into the large entertaining room
and out on to the twinkling lights on the lake. We were met a gentleman
named Thomas who Jenny seemed very affectionate towards. She explained
that he is the caretaker, but on days like this he doubles as the
butler. He was trying to be as formal as possible, but Jenny kept
talking to him like he was a long-lost friend. Eventually the formality
broke and he told Jenny to knock it off, and Jenny started giggling.
Thomas, Tom, looked at me and said 'I wish you luck dealing with her.
She needs a little humility. Make sure you show her that." I laughed
and told her I would. "Thomas" took our coats and took them to the
cloak room adjacent to the entry but not without bumping into Jenny
purposely on the way. He mockingly apologized for bumping into the
princess which earned him a declaration by my girlfriend that she was
number one in his direction. Jenny took my hand and looking directly
into my eyes asked me if I was ready and I nodded. Both of us took deep
breaths and then began giggling that we had reacted the same and began
the walk into the large room.
As we stood at the top of the few steps that led into the room, 30 pairs
of eyes turned and looked at Jenny and I. Under her breath Jenny told
me to smile as Jenny scanned the crowd for her parents and I felt the
stare of the eyes. Some seemed genuinely happy to see us while some
gave me a quick visual inspection and began making their judgements as
to whether I belonged here this evening. Thankfully, Jenny has spotted
her parents and we moved down the stairs and to the left where a
gentleman who appeared in his late 50's and early 60's stood in a very
expensive suit next to a woman who appeared ten years younger than him
at his side. Jenny walked directly up to them. The gentleman spoke
first, "Jennifer" he stated and took Jenny into a semi warm embrace.
The woman also called Jenny by her formal name but was much less
affectionate with her, simply exchanging a friendly kiss on the cheek.
Jenny stepped back and stood next to me and began the introductions.
"Daddy, Mother I would like to introduce my boyfriend, Alex Quinn. Alex
these are my parents Martin and Marilyn."
Mr. Thompson's hand immediately shot and grasped mine in firm handshake
accompanied by a smile that I would consider warm and welcoming. Mrs.
Thompson was equally polite in welcoming me but the smile she flashed
seemed forced. I was immediately suspicions of her. As close as Jenny
and I had become, I realized she rarely talked about her mother. I made
a mental note to ask her about this later. Mr. Thompson began speaking
and gesturing to the two men he was speaking with, "Alex I would like to
introduce to Congressman William Fritz and Gerald Washburn," I shake the
two gentleman hands and realized how out of place I truly was. Jenny
was very comfortable with these two men, but I had nothing in common
with them. One was a Congressman and the other an old money tycoon. It
was awkward and thankfully we were pulled away when we heard a female
voice calling out my girlfriend's name. I turn and watch as Jenny and a
slightly older version of Jenny meet in the middle of the room and give
each other a big hug. Jenny waves me over and I excuse myself from the
power meeting disguised as mingling I had been thrust into.
As I reach Jenny, she grabs me and pulls me to her side. "Alex I want
you to meet my cousin Julie. Julie this the best thing that has ever
happened to me, Alex." I am not sure what caused me to blush more, the
compliment Jenny had just paid me or the kiss on the cheek that I
received. Julie held out her hand and we shook. The two of us were
quizzed about the typical things, how we met, how long we have been
together, etc. Until Julie looks at Jenny and gives her some advice.
"You better take Alex over to see Grandma Mary. She has been asking
about you two all night," Julie informs her younger cousin. After
pointing out the grandmother, Jenny and I take our leave of Julie,
promising to hook up latter, and work our way over to Jenny's
grandmother who is seated in a high back chair in a small alcove near
the big windows overlooking the lake.
Jenny bends over and gives her grandmother a hug once we reach her.
"Happy Thanksgiving grandma. I understand you have been looking for
me?"
"Yes I have young lady," Grandma Mary says somewhat sternly. "Where
have you been?"
"I was with my boyfriend at his parents earlier today and just got here
a little while ago. How have you been?" Jenny asks as she stands back
up and grabs my hand. "Grandma, I'd like to you to meet my boyfriend,
Alex Quinn. Alex, this is my grandmother Mary Thompson," Jenny said as
the two of us stood there looking at the older, but obviously active
woman. If this was the grandmother who celebrated her 85th birthday a
few weeks ago, I am surprised. Grandma motioned to a chair indicating
that we should join her so I grabbed the single chair to the side and
presented it for Jenny to sit down while I stood behind her with my
hands on her shoulder.
"Jennifer, I didn't want you to sit. Go mingle or something. I want to
talk to your gentleman friend alone." With a nervous look Jenny stood
up and looked at me while mouthing 'I'm sorry' to me and then
disappearing around the corner. At her insistence, I sat down across
from Jenny's grandmother and awaited the grilling I was sure I was about
to receive. "So Quinn, eh. That would make you a Mick I guess. Also,
a minnow muncher I bet," I nod at the older woman as she says some
disparaging comments about my background. "So tell me, what do your
parents do Alex?"
"My father is a construction contractor and my mother is a school
teacher," I replied, purposely leaving out that she taught at a Catholic
school.
"I understand that you and Jennifer met at University. What are you
studying Mr. Quinn?" she asked. I had noticed that she had yet to smile
in the time we had been there. And I answered that I was majoring in
English. "And what do you plan to do with that?" I told her I planned
on either going to law school or teaching. A scowl came across the
woman's face "Lawyer! Just what this world needs, another lawyer," I'm
glad she didn't ask me about being a teacher. The old woman continued
"What are your intentions with my granddaughter young man?'
I froze not knowing how to answer that. At the same time a gasp came
from around the corner and as I turned I could see Jenny standing there.
It was then I heard, "Jennifer Ann Thompson! Leave. Go talk to your
cousin or something," the old woman said crossly. I kept my head turned
and watched Jenny sulk away and then turned my head back to the old
woman who had been interrogating me. With a smile on her face, she
asked "Is she gone?"
With an astonished look on my face I nodded. "Good. I would like to
apologize for how I was just acting. I knew the little minx was
standing around the corner eavesdropping on us. I am sorry about how I
was acting. An old lady needs to have a little fun, especially when you
are around all these stuff shirts my son and his wife have invited.
Alex, you must realize while I have been living in this world for the
last 60 years of my life, I was not born into it. My maiden name is
O'Malley. My full name is Mary Margaret O'Malley Thompson. I am the
daughter of a police officer. My husband Charles was the rebel of the
family, but eventually fell back into the family fold. I got stuck.
So, to amuse myself I like to play little jokes and go on adventures."
To say I was taken aback by all this would be an understatement. I
looked at the old woman who now had an impish grin on her face that was
infectious. She, like her granddaughter, had blue eyes that seem so
warm. I couldn't help but like this woman immediately, and soon we were
talking like old friends. Laughing and joking with one another. She
asked about my family a little more in depth and I couldn't help but be
honest with her. I told of her the troubles I had with my father and
the confrontation I had with my brother earlier in the day. She
genuinely seemed saddened by that. "There are so many bigoted people in
this world it is amazing. You would be surprised how many are standing
here right now. Some of these limousine liberals will put out plenty of
lip service about equality across race and orientation, but get them
behind closed doors they are a bunch of Archie Bunkers," she almost spat
as she said this.
She leaned forward and took my hand in hers and said. "Alex you seem
like a very nice young man. And I can see how much being around you has
done for Jenny. I have not seen her this happy in years," I notice how
she hesitated somewhat as she said this. I asked if she was thinking
about Abby and she nodded yes. "When Abby died, part of me and part of
Jenny died as well. She was a beautiful child. So full of life and
love. It hit me hard but hit Jenny harder. She has gone through the
last few years in kind of haze. But on my birthday, I noticed a light
in her eyes I had not seen in a long time. When I pressed her on it she
said nothing, but a few weeks later when I saw her I couldn't get her to
stop talking about you. Thank you for putting some hope in my
granddaughter's life again." I couldn't help but tear up a little. That
I had helped Jenny move on gave me some hope. The grandmother and I
continued talking about everything and nothing at the same time for the
next few minutes. It was then she hit me with a shocker.
"You know you look like one of Jenny's friends. From the pictures, I
have seen, I could have sworn she would have been your sister, but you
don't have any you say. Do you know this friend of Jenny's, Alexa?" I
instantly froze and began babbling incoherently. She leaned in "Relax"
she said in whisper. "I figured it out a while back. Jenny said
something a few weeks ago and I put two and two together. Rest assured
your secret is safe with me," To say I was relieved would have been the
biggest understatement ever said. The next sentence was even better.
"Do you want to have a little fun with your girlfriend?" She said with
that glorious smile. I giggled and nodded. Spotting Jennifer across
the room, she yelled out to her, "Jennifer would you please come here,"
As we waited for Jenny to return, Grandma Ann looked at me and said, 'I
like the suit. It looks like a cross between a man's and woman's. I'm
guessing Jenny bought that for you." I didn't say anything because I
knew the woman knew exactly what she was talking about.
Soon Jenny arrived with a look of apprehension. "You wanted to see me
grandma?" Jenny said.
"Yes I did. Alex here seems like a very nice young man. I am glad you
FINALLY found the time to introduce him to me. Now when are you going
to introduce your friend Alexa to me?" Jenny happened to be taking a sip
of her wine as her grandmother said this and did a spit take. The look
on her face was priceless. She obviously had no idea her grandmother
had figured everything out. Grandma Mary just stood and starred at her
waiting for an answer. I stood to the left of Mary trying to keep a
straight face. Eventually, I broke out into a fit of laughter. I
couldn't hold it anymore. Mary just turned and looked at me. "You are
weak," I tried to apologize while Grandma Mary just shook her head and
turned back towards her granddaughter. In a whisper, she said to Jenny.
"Don't worry about it. I'm on your side," The look of relief that Jenny
displayed was immense. Before Jenny could say anything to her
grandmother, Mary announced she needed a drink and left the two of us
behind. Jenny walked up and looked me straight in the eye.
"You're terrible," she said.
"I'm sorry. It was your grandmother's idea. I think she likes me," I
say with a huge smile spread across my face.
"I know that worries me," Jenny replies. "I love her more than anyone
in family, but she loves her little games. She loves to tease me and
now I'm afraid she as a new ally." A laugh escapes as she says this.
She pushes me back into the alcove and gives me a long lingering kiss
before leading me out. "Come on, let's go mingle and hopefully the food
will be ready soon so we can get out of here," With that, Jenny leads me
out into the main portion of the room where we talk with many people who
last names equal the old guard money of Minneapolis. I even met a
former governor of our state. It was so surreal, but it was wonderful
watching Jenny move amongst these people. She was so charming and
graceful that I felt proud to be with her. It wasn't long before it was
announced that dinner was being served. As everyone moved to the large
dining room Jenny held me back. I was soon met be a kiss and Jenny
asked if I was doing OK. I told her I was doing fine, and that she had
looked beautiful as she moved about. She thanked me and kissed me
again.
"There is one more test babe. We have to sit by my mother during
dinner," she told me. Immediately I could feel panic overtake my body.
"Don't worry. We will make it quick. I just wanted to warn you so you
would be ready for the questioning," We soon were moving off to the
dining room, even though it felt like I was heading to the gallows.
Jenny's mother was seated at the head of the table and appeared to be
pleased that Jenny Ans I would be joining her, but the pleasant
appearance seemed forced. As Jenny moved to her seat, I tried to act
like a proper gentleman and held out the chair for her and pushed it in
before taking my own seat. Jenny's mother looked at me suspiciously as
I did this, but I also noticed Grandma