Courtney And Tony Start Their Life Together free porn video

Tony and Courtney start their lives together This is a sequel to the story Wrestling with myself, by Katie Leone. Tony, a senior, befriended Courtney (formerly Corey) when she appeared as a 9th grader at Dunedin HS, in Florida. Tony is a deeply committed Christian, who never expected to fall in love with a transgendered girl, or face harassment from his Christian friends to the point of being attacked and hospitalized. The last scene of the book shows them at the homecoming dance together. The Rainbow Dragon and Master Cole references are to a story I wrote as sequel to XX/XY(formerly titled "Emma"), by Felicia Gabriel. A second book (Just Friends) by Ms. Leone has a fellow graduate of their High School referring to Courtney and Tony staying together, with Tony attending Oklahoma State University on a wrestling scholarship. (Tony isn't named in the second book, but Courtney is, and the situation is described in detail). Jennifer Sweet is the main character in a series by Ms. Leone titled God Bless the Child. She also appears as an attorney, married to Mets pitcher Sean Sweet, another character from God Bless the Child in the series Unreachable. Stephanie's position and supervisor in the epilogue is a tribute to the main character Elizabeth in 'A Necessary Fiction', by Karin Bishop. I have great respect for all of these TG fiction authors and more, and try to give them a salute when I can, since I don't write for money, just my own enjoyment. The advanced class at the Dunedin, Florida Rainbow Dragon school of Tae Kwon Do was just about over. The eleven students (three wearing Black Belts, eight wearing Brown Belts) stood in a line ready to bow out. In the center of the second group stood a somewhat short and slender blonde (her hair was originally light brown, but at 16 her parents had permitted her to lighten it) girl about 18 years old, very pretty and wearing a brown belt with two stripes, signifying 2nd gup (level) status. She was perspiring profusely, since she put everything she had into every workout. She knew her college boyfriend wasn't happy about her learning to fight, since it was against his Christian beliefs, but she always felt extremely vulnerable due to her history. Courtney had been born male, but was transgender, out since her freshman year, and had been attacked several times in the past, and knew she needed to be able to defend herself, especially since her boyfriend Tony (actually Antonio LaMana, nicknamed Tiny) wasn't around to protect her. She had chosen Rainbow Dragon, due to the fact it was a chain of schools in several states, and had been founded (in Texas)-and was headed by-a woman who was herself considered to be transgender (though she really wasn't, she actually had a condition known as CAIS, which prevented her body from using testosterone. When she had been in seventh grade, it had been medically decided, with her agreement, that Emma Smith (now Cole) should be raised as a girl. This decision got her shunned by many religious people and almost killed in an attack by a neo-nazi group. At that point Emma Smith had started training with members of her security team, including her adoptive father). As a Brown Belt, she had actually begun (with permission) teaching classes to her close girlfriends, with some of them actually earning black belts themselves (long after Emma earned hers, of course). Rainbow Dragon accommodated and welcomed everyone, especially those from any part of the GLBTQ community. There was initially some hostility from the rest of the martial arts world towards the "queer dojos," but the talk stopped as they continued to prove themselves both in competition (taking nothing from anyone) and on the street when attacked. After dismissal, Courtney went up to her instructor, bowed and asked to speak to him. "Sabonim (teacher in Korean), you know I won't be training for a while, right?" "I know Courtney, surgery right after graduation, then recovery, then off to OSU with Tony, as I recall." "Yes, but I promise to keep in practice as much as I can, and definitely return next summer or even on Christmas break for a few classes." "Too bad you're going to miss Master Cole's (Master Emma Smith-Abrams- Cole, 6th Dan) visit, she'll be here in a few weeks, and you two do have a lot in common. Well, good luck with the surgery, do great in college, and stop by when you can. Who knows, maybe you can start a Rainbow Dragon club there." "In Oklahoma? Right! You know the weird laws they have allowing discrimination against gay and trans people there. I'm hoping to stay anonymous, at least for a while." After some more conversation, they bowed to each other, Courtney left, and went home to shower and do her homework (not much, her senior year was just winding down. She was eighteen, and her final M to F surgery was scheduled for a week after graduation). In Oklahoma, Tony was packing. His junior year was over, he was a nationally ranked wrestler, and he couldn't wait to get home to see Courtney Barnes, his pretty girlfriend, and hopefully soon, fianc?e. They had agreed that they would not become engaged until after Courtney's final surgery, and due to his beliefs, they would certainly not become intimate until after their marriage. Which was an event that neither could wait for, they had been in love since he was a HS senior and she was a shy, lonely freshman facing constant harassment from most of the students in their school. But now, with hormone and other treatments, Courtney Barnes had blossomed into a beautiful young woman, accepted by most (though certainly not all) of the students at Dunedin High School as the girl she appeared to be. Even those who didn't accept her would never dream of bothering her-the girls because her abilities as a martial artist were well known (and at times demonstrated to the foolish), and the boys because they remembered Tony, and were afraid of what he might do when he came home on break. They also knew that she was capable of holding her own against at least half of the boys, too. Though Tony probably wouldn't do much, given his faith, the fear was always there. Tony drove home to Florida from Oklahoma in his Firebird (nicknamed the Beast), called Courtney, and the two had several dates during the next few weeks. Courtney wasn't going to be valedictorian, but she would be wearing the gold tassel and stole signifying the National Honor Society. Tony didn't keep her out late, because she was still in school, and he also enjoyed spending time with his future in-laws, who he liked very much. The feeling was mutual, they liked him, respected his commitment to purity before marriage, were extremely grateful for his protective attitude towards their daughter, and his contributing to her eventually validating her sense of being a female. Wearing the wrestling team pin of one of the best wrestlers in the state, who happened to be a senior while she was a freshman went a long way in that direction. Even at their now adult-ages, they never did more than kiss or share a brief hug, which only added to the respect the Barnes' had for him. There had been some flap over Courtney's NHS acceptance and wearing their regalia. Many people in the community felt that she wasn't a proper role model, and that she would 'infect' other students and convince them to become transgender. Courtney and Tony were sick of that type of bigotry and ignorance, and she couldn't wait to leave Dunedin and get somewhere where no one knew her and she could start over, as the woman she had always known she was. Happily, the administration put a stop to the petition to ban her from either graduation or the NHS, and she would receive the honors she had earned. Graduation went without a hitch, Courtney wearing a dress of her favorite light blue under her pristine white graduation gown. She was called up to receive her diploma as Courtney Anne Barnes, because her legal name had been changed (from her male name of Corey) long ago by the county court with the recommendations of her psychiatrist and gender specialist doctor. She received several scholarship awards, including a major one from the International Foundation for Gender Education (IFGE), which most people had never heard of and wouldn't have known what it was anyway. Tony was there to meet her as she exited with her fellow graduates, and gave her a deep congratulatory hug and kiss. After the ceremony, the couple went out for a celebratory dinner with Courtney's parents and Tony's mother. Everyone had a congratulatory gift for her, mostly jewelry. In Tony's case, it was a gold necklace with a sapphire stone that matched the deep blue of her eyes. Her parents also had an envelope for her, which she eagerly tore open, having a good idea of what it was. She was right-in it were four tickets to the airport near a special clinic in Montreal, Canada, where one of the best SRS surgeons in the world practiced. Her parents and obviously, Tony would accompany her for her final surgery to complete her physical transition to a completely functional female, able to enter into a marriage with the love of her life. But first Tony had a formality to perform, one which everyone at the table knew was coming and heartily approved of. A few days later, Tony stopped off at Courtney's home (not exactly a rare occurrence) and asked to speak privately with Mr. Barnes (which was). "I guess it's that time, right, Tony? Ok, go ahead and ask. You've been a perfect gentleman with my daughter all these years, and I just want her to be happy." "Thanks, Mr. Barnes. Ok, here it is. You know I love Courtney, I have ever since we met. She's the woman I want to share my live with, and I know she feels the same way. Her surgery is scheduled for next week, and I want to greet her with an engagement ring when she wakes up. Not the most romantic of sites, but one I feel appropriate." "If you really feel that's the best time, who am I to stand in your way? Of course, you have my permission to marry my daughter-and my blessing. I'll be proud to have you for my son-in-law." The two men continued talking about Tony's future and theirs together. They then went out to join Courtney and her mom. Neither of the women were worried, they both knew what was coming, and that it was Tony's strong Christian beliefs that required him to ask his beloved's father for permission to marry her, since biblically, she was under his authority (though modern customs, laws and realities made that largely symbolic rather than legalistic. As an adult in the United States, legally Courtney had the right to marry anyone she chose, especially after a certain Supreme Court decision, but they were both Christians, and opted to follow the Bible in that regard). The four had a brief celebration, but decided to make it an early night, since the next day, Courtney had to start packing for her trip to Canada, and the most important day of her life to that point (her wedding day would definitely take first place when it occurred). The day of the trip dawned bright and sunny (summer in Florida!). Mr. Barnes got all of their luggage packed (Courtney unsurprisingly, had two suit cases, a purse and her makeup kit), everyone else just had one suitcase each (though Mrs. Barnes also carried her purse of course), Courtney's mom kept her toiletries and cosmetics in her suitcase, not using as much as any average teenaged girl. They made sure they had their passports, even for Canada, and Tony checked again to see that he had a small, but supremely important jewelry box. He did. Tony and Courtney had a two-seater row in tourist class to themselves, with Mr. and Mrs. Barnes in the row immediately behind them, which allowed them to talk, though not privately. The flight from Florida to Montreal was direct, with no stopovers, and went smoothly. They chose not to buy dinner on the plane, deciding instead to have a light snack. This held them over until they landed, as they had reservations in one of Montreal's best restaurants. It would be Courtney's last good meal for a while, as she would be in recovery for at least two weeks, on a limited diet. After lunch, they did some sightseeing, saw the cathedral and a few other points of interest, and then checked into the hotel, where Mr. Barnes had reserved a suite. There were three bedrooms, so the Barnes' took the master, with Tony and Courtney each taking a smaller one. Much as they would have loved to, they would not spend the night together, even casually, until after the marriage ceremony. Of course, full intimacy between them was impossible until after Courtney's surgery and recovery, but they refused to give even a hint of anything improper between them. Antonio and Courtney wanted everything between them to be moral and above reproach. After watching some light TV and talking for a while, they all retired to get some sleep. Courtney had an 8:00 AM check in at the clinic, so everyone was up bright and early for it. Even though she would be changing into a hospital gown, she took great care in dressing that morning. She fixed her hair so it fell in loose tendrils framing her face, and wore a lacy sundress in her favorite blue, this one in a light cornflower shade. She wasn't one for a lot of makeup (compared to many other teen girls anyway!), but she did do a 'full face' for confidence, because she was naturally extremely nervous. After this week, she would finally be a complete woman (her dream since she was three years old!) with no possible way back. Her psychiatrist and psychologist had spent long hours with her ensuring that she wasn't faking, that she was absolutely sure, and that there would be no later regrets before giving her that all-important endorsement. Her mom helped her get ready as necessary (it wasn't, Courtney had been practicing with hair and makeup for almost four years, but Mrs. Barnes was of course worried also, and wanted to somehow help). After all, her baby was about to undergo radical and possibly dangerous surgery. Anything could go wrong, though everyone joined in a prayer that it wouldn't. After a light breakfast, they caught a cab to the clinic, which the driver knew the way to quite well. Evidently, a lot of people came to Montreal to have their SRS surgery completed, and he had driven more than one client to the facility. They paid (and tipped him), exited, and went through the glass doors to the check-in desk, where they were greeted by an attractive brunette woman with a French accent. (This was Montreal after all, and many spoke French as a first language, and most others were at least conversant in it). They were checked in, taken to a room, and told to settle in. They could stay with her until visiting hours were over, and then return the next morning. However, since her day would be taken up by a battery of tests, coming before 6PM or so would be a waste of their time, since they wouldn't be able to see her. They could come at 7 AM the day after next, since, assuming all the tests were positive, she would be taken up to the Operating Room and preparation at 8. They promised to be there at 7 on the dot. They stepped out of Courtney's room while she changed from her dress into a pink hospital gown, and climbed into bed. She was chagrined to find out that she wouldn't be able to apply any makeup prior to Tony's morning visit for sterility reasons. Like just about every other teen- aged girl (and most adult women for that matter!) , she did NOT want the most important man in her life (Don't tell dad that!) to see her totally bare-faced. When the visitor's bell rang, Mr. and Mrs. Barnes kissed their daughter goodnight and slipped out the door to give Tony and Courtney a few minutes alone. Their conversation got serious for a few minutes. "Tony, are you sure about this?" Courtney asked softly. "About your surgery? That's up to you, isn't it? It's been your dream for most of your life-I'm just the guy who's here to support you and is madly in love with you! Aren't YOU sure?" "About that-sure I am, I know it's right for me. I mean, am I right for you? No matter what, we'll always remember the circumstances of my birth-and why I can't give you any natural children. I just want to make sure that you never regret your decision to be with me-as a lifetime commitment. I love you so much, but I'd let you go in a minute if being with me would cause you hurt." "Never happen, my love. You know I already talked to your dad to get permission to marry you. I have the ring, ready to give to you, and will be so proud to see it on your finger, and for everyone else to know what it means. We can adopt, if it comes to that-someday, when we're ready. And look at the advances in medicine-all kinds of transplants and other things. But that's for later. You get some sleep, and I'll see you either tomorrow or at 7 AM the day after. And I'll be here when you wake up, you know. With a ring box. And don't worry about makeup- I'll be seeing you every morning for the rest of our lives, you're always beautiful to me." Tony and the Barnes family made a short visit the following evening, just to see her and give her their support. They only had from 6 PM to 7, but they made the most of it. They all prayed together, talked a little, and then the three visitors kissed Courtney goodnight for the evening-though they would see her at 7 AM the next day, just prior to her being prepped for GRS surgery. Naturally, they would all stay the entire day in the hospital, going to the coffee shop or cafeteria for lunch and dinner. They were told, however, that the surgery would last the entire day, with a long recovery time, with Courtney most likely unconscious, since she would be on some pretty heavy pain medications. Courtney's parents were also aware that for a very long time, their daughter would have to 'dilate' to keep her new vagina from closing up. Tony wasn't included in that conversation (though he was of course aware of the situation), since he wasn't family, and it wouldn't have been appropriate. Of course, both Courtney and her parents knew that the artificial dilation would only be necessary for a year, then Tony, as her husband would take the place of the item that they gave her. As much in love as the two were, it was very unlikely that Courtney would ever need her dilation device again. But Tony and Courtney, being who they were, wouldn't take that step until they were legally married, even though the doctor told her that from a medical perspective, she would be cleared for sexual intimacy in about 4-5 months, especially since she was over 18. She was chagrined to learn that while she could engage in light exercise in a month or so, going back to her Tae Kwon Do training was out until after Christmas break. "Too bad," she thought, "OSU has a TKD club that's part of the same world organization as Rainbow Dragon. Would have been nice to keep training there till I get home. But I'll start with them right after break. I wonder if there are any other female brown belts in the club?" At 7:00 am sharp the three were back in Courtney's room, though they would only be able to see her for a few minutes, as she would be taken into the operating room for her surgery. She would be there the bulk of the day, as she was having all of her (now useless, due to years of hormones) male parts removed, and a vagina constructed with procedures that would allow her to have some feeling in her new equipment. She had already had some tracheal shaving to reduce her 'Adams Apple', and some breast augmentation in addition to the growth already begun from her hormone regimen. When finished, she would be a perfect 34-B, which fit right in with the other women in her family, so she wouldn't be too different from them. Finally, the nurse came in to give her a shot and shoo Tony and the Barnes family out. "Is that your boyfriend, sweetie? He looks like a hunk-and he really seems to care for you. A lot of girls that come through here aren't so lucky, many guys can't face what their girlfriends used to be." "I am lucky-Tony knew me when I was just coming out, he defended me, even got beaten up by his friends over me. We've been in love since I was 14, and somehow we just clicked. Tonight, I'll have a ring on my finger, and in a year, I'll be his wife. I wish I could give him children, but we can try to adopt someday if it comes down to that." Well, best of luck, Courtney. I won't be on tonight, but I'll see you tomorrow, and I'll help with your hair and makeup if you'd like, before he gets here. Believe me, you won't be in any shape to do it yourself, and I can tell you're all girl, and looking your best, especially for your fianc? is important." "Thanks, I'd appreciate that. I had a senior girl, a friend of Tony's, teach me a lot about makeup and fashion when I was 14, and just starting to transition. That first couple of months in school was literally hell." "I bet it was. You're from the American deep south, aren't you? The so-called 'Bible Belt'? They aren't very forgiving or understanding of anyone or anything outside of their own little religious prejudices." The two talked a little longer, mostly to calm Courtney's nerves, then she began to nod off from the sleeping pill, and so the nurse said goodnight and left, soon to go off shift. Courtney woke up after a long night's sleep, pondering her last few hours of being legally and physically male, though she hadn't felt as or considered herself as one for almost four years (or all of her life, depending on your point of view), and told herself that she couldn't wait for it to finally be GONE, and she could finally go to Tony as the physically complete woman she had always wanted to be. She was so lucky to have not only him, but the most loving, understanding and accepting parents in the world. She would regret giving up their last name when the time came, but she would be so happy to assume Tony's surname of LaMano. Then it started, finally. Her morning nurse came in, greeted her, gave her a shot and set up in IV drip, containing a saline solution. In the OR, the Anesthesiologist would infuse her with the proper 'knockout drug', and closely monitor her while the surgeon performed the procedure. While she was chatting with the nurse, two transport orderlies came in to move her to the Operating Area. She had already signed all the consent and informational forms, so she was good to go. Dr. Lambeau (the Anesthesiologist) gave her the appropriate drugs, told her to count backwards from 100 (she reached 96) and that's the last thing Courtney Barnes knew for the next ten hours or so. The Montreal surgeon was one of the best in the world for this type of work. While Thailand got more patients, and was less expensive, those who could afford it went to Canada or Philadelphia. He and his team spent the next ten hours removing the unnecessary parts, inverting them and creating a vaginal wall. What had been a scrotum was converted to Labial lips (after the testicles were completely removed, naturally). Blood vessels were reconnected where possible, and the surgical team cleaned the wounds, stitched up where necessary and prepared to end the procedure and have her transferred to the recovery room, where she would be allowed to sleep until the anesthesia wore off and she woke up naturally. A nurse was dispatched to the waiting room to inform the family that everything had gone well, and that she would wake up soon. When she was transferred from recovery to a regular room, they would be allowed to see her. Meanwhile, the three had been waiting impatiently for news. Tony alternated between reading his Bible and some sports and car magazines. Mr. Barnes read a Tom Clancy novel, while Mrs. Barnes spent the time with a type of women's novel known as a 'Bodice Ripper'. When they were hungry for lunch or just needed some coffee, they made their way to the hospital coffee shop, though not all at the same time, since they wanted someone always available in case anyone came out to give them some information. The nurse from the previous day entered Courtney's room as she started to rouse. "how are you doing, hon?" the woman asked. "Like I got kicked by a mule" Courtney answered. "How long is this going to last?" "just until this hydrocodone kicks in. We'll use morphine if we have to, but it's best to start with this. Then when you're ready, we'll get you prettied up for your parents. And what's his name, Tony too, I guess." She laughed at the last part, knowing that he was probably the MOST important person in Courtney's life, and she couldn't wait to see him. She brushed out the girl's hair, and did a light application of blush, eye makeup and lipstick, just enough to improve her spirits, but not as though she was getting ready for a formal night out on the town. Then she dropped a bombshell. "Hon, I kind of know how you're feeling. Five years ago I was in a room here just like this one, having had the same surgery that you just had. Congratulations, and welcome to the club. If you need to talk, I'm here for you during your entire stay." They transferred her to a regular room on the special surgical floor and led in the family. Tony immediately walked to the bedside (he practically ran!) and kissed her, which she returned, at least as well as she could. Her parents were right behind him, though they knew that he was the most important person in her life and that they would want to share a kiss as soon as possible. "You look beautiful, Courtney. I know how happy you are, you've been waiting for this moment for so long. And in a year, we'll be together forever as husband and wife. I hope you're feeling all right?" "Well actually, as I told Kara (the nurse) I feel like I've been kicked, though I've kind of had that feeling a lot, you know?" she giggled. "Still with the TKD jokes, huh? Well, at least you'll be away from that for a while," Tony retorted. "Just till after Christmas, lover. I know I started it to learn to protect myself while you weren't around to do it, but it's become my sport, like you are with wrestling. I do it for the sheer love of the art now. I'm going to continue, both at college and later on. I will earn my Black Belt, and I owe a lot to Rainbow Dragon, and a lot of people out there need our teaching." "Okay, we'll talk about that later, for now, just rest and get well." The conversation between the four got lighter after that, and eventually Courtney yawned and unwillingly drifted off to sleep. As before, the three took turns visiting the cafeteria for dinner, with one of them always in the room in case she woke up. They would have to leave for the night though, but they would be back in the morning. The nurse did chase them all out, however, during Courtney's several times a day dilation. Tony had no right to be there, Mr. Barnes couldn't either, since his daughter would be unbelievably embarrassed to do that in front of him, and Mrs. Barnes agreed to give her some privacy, though she did ask Courtney if she wanted her to stay and help her the first time at least. Courtney thought about it, then politely refused. "Mom, no offense, but I don't really want to advertise it. Kara can help me get it right, she's done it before with other girls. But thanks anyway." The next day, Tony went in alone for the morning visit. He had the box with him, and the two had a serious conversation. "Tony, for the last time, are you sure? I love you, and want to be with you forever, but- you know. I know it can't escape you that I'm trans, and I don't want you to someday resent me." "No chance, Courtney my love. I've known it since that first kiss in the pool-there was no one else in the world for me. We couldn't do anything about it then, but you've had your surgery-you're physically female now to match your heart, soul and mind. Courtney Barnes, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" "Yes, yes, yes, of course I will marry you Tony. Come here," and the two shared the deepest and most romantic kiss of their entire relationship. Tony then slipped a beautiful platinum and diamond engagement ring on the third finger of her left hand. "It's official, we're engaged." The days passed in much the same manner. Courtney had to heal up, and then start some light rehab. She was visited as much as was practical, though in the meantime, she had classes. Some of them were similar to what girls in the third or fourth grade take in hygiene class, but without the session on menstruation, of course, though she did learn enough so that she would be able to fit in with her girlfriends if and when the topic came up. It was also suggested that she use feminine protection as a sort of smoke screen for a week every month to avoid suspicion. She learned feminine cleanliness, breast health, and options for breast-feeding should the need arise in the future. They also covered strategies for avoiding rape and other forms of assault particular to females, and what to look out for (a class she could have actually taught). In other words, the things Courtney would have learned as a matter of course had she actually been born a genetic female. Finally, it was time to discharge her and for the four of them to fly home. Courtney was of course on bed rest for the first few weeks at home while she recuperated from her procedures. Tony spent much of that time at the Barnes home visiting and helping with her less personal needs (her mother would help with those). Finally, the day came when she was allowed out for a short time. The two of them decided to go out for a casual lunch in a very public place. Unfortunately, there were still people who knew her and disapproved of her for one reason or another. Members of the fundamentalist churches were the most vocal and hateful of that group. No matter how much they prattled about 'love the sinner, hate the sin', it was still a fact that she had been attacked several times, harassed several more, and Tony had been hospitalized and almost crippled because of his love for her. They didn't want that to happen again, especially since in her condition, Courtney was totally incapable of defending herself in any way. That wouldn't change for several months. They chose a southern style BBQ restaurant in the center of Dunedin, one where Tony was well known. Tony was rather casually dressed in khakis and a polo shirt, while Courtney was more formal. She chose a pink A- line dress with white flats, and jewelry. She wore her hair loose with a matching hair band ribbon, and took great care with her makeup, since it was her first time in public as a complete woman, with a brand-new birth certificate to boot. She even took the time to polish her nails to match her dress and lipstick. She wanted to look her best for her first outing with Tony, especially with her engagement ring sparkling on her finger. She wanted her fianc? to be proud of her, which she knew that he would be, even if she was in a t-shirt and jeans with her hair in a ponytail and no makeup at all. She knew with all her heart that he loved her and would never leave no matter what. To both of them, 'till death do us part' meant exactly that. The two walked in the front door, and were greeted by the hostess, who turned out to be someone they knew well. Stephanie had graduated with Tony and had been the girl who had given Courtney her early lessons in makeup and similar topics almost four years ago, though it had taken her some time to come around to acceptance of them as a couple. "Hi you two. When did you get back in town, haven't seen you guys for almost a month. Oh-and Courtney. What's that I see on your left-hand ring finger? Is it what I think it is?" "Hi Steph, it sure is. We've been away for a while-medical procedure- and while we were there, Tony asked me to marry him." "Medical procedure? Are you okay? Or is it the one I think it is, the one you've been wanting all your life?" "Yes, that was it Steph. Without getting graphic, suffice it to say I can use the ladies room in North Carolina now, and I can be a real wife to Tony after our marriage next year, after he graduates." "Oh wow, that is so great. I'm still sorry for how I treated you back then, but I'm really, really happy for you guys." "Thanks, Steph. Long forgotten, and I really have to thank you for being such a lifesaver and giving me those early 'girl lessons'." Stephanie seated the couple, their waitress came over, and they ordered. Courtney was NOT going to order something as unladylike as ribs while dressed as she was, so she ordered a pulled pork sandwich with fries and an iced tea. Tony had a standard lunch platter with pulled pork, quarter slab of ribs, bbq chicken legs, fries and slaw, served over rice. He also had iced tea (both of their teas of course sweetened southern style). Tony paid when they were done, they said goodbye to their friend, and they left to go home. Tony didn't want his fianc?e to get too tired on her first outing. "Tony, can't we hit the mall for a bit? I do need to do some shopping, you know." "Sorry Courtney, no way. Next time sure, but for now, you can't do too much, and I don't want you to overdo things. Besides, do you really want me with you clothes shopping? Wouldn't you really rather be with one of your girlfriends?" "Come to think of it, that might be a good idea, either a girlfriend or mom, for some of the things I want to get, now that I can." "Oh," Tony just kind of acknowledged her. "I don't think I want to know." "But you will, lover. Some of it now in your pool, and some of it-like next year after a very important day in our lives?" The summer passed, with the two spending most of their time together. They went out more as she got stronger, Courtney visited her Dojo to see her friends, and the two prepared to leave for college. Courtney was of course going to Oklahoma State University to be with Tony, but they wouldn't be sharing an apartment (at least not this year, until they were a married couple), even though many students did. Also, OSU had a few coed dorms, though with male and female students in different rooms. Even in such a conservative state, room visitation wasn't particularly monitored, since just about every student (except for some of the freshmen) was a legal adult. Tony and Courtney didn't worry about that, though. They knew who they were, what their morals were, and weren't about to change for anyone. They did have one interesting meeting with someone out of their past. They were at their local mall one day before leaving when they heard a familiar voice behind them saying "Hello Tiny, Courtney. Long time no see." They turned around and standing there in the uniform of a custodian was Tony's old friend Shannon, one of the boys who had attacked him because of his relationship with Courtney. He had been sentenced to five years in prison for the assault, though he had avoided a 'Hate-crime conviction'. Tony greeted him back, though understandably, Courtney didn't want to talk to him at first. "Hello Shannon, I'm glad you're finally out of prison. You know I've forgiven you, and have been praying for you ever since that day. How are you doing?" "Not great Tony-I really seem to have messed up my life but good. You're in college, Carl is in division 2, Ted and Dave working for a game company, Steph on track for restaurant management, Tracy in nursing school, John's in Tech School. I'm a paroled felon who can't even vote in this state and only job I can find is as a janitor. My own fault though, I was young and stupid. Courtney, I'm truly sorry for the way I treated you and Tony. I don't expect you'll ever forgive me, but I just want you to know how I feel." "Thank you for that Shannon-and I do forgive you, I did a long time ago, as Christ forgave us our trespasses. Yes, it was hard-but I do wish you the best, and I hope you can get some breaks and turn your life around." "That's true Shannon-we did. We'll both be gone for this year, but if we can help you-write letters, call people, talk to your parole officer, whatever, just let us know." "You know, I really didn't understand who my true friends were. I just feel so horrible about the way things turned out. But I'm so happy for you two. Anyway, I've kept you two long enough, and I have to get back to work.." their friend turned slowly and disappeared down the concourse towards the maintenance area. "Wow, that was interesting, Antonio. I feel sorry for him, but I really hope he can get it together and make something of himself. He had so much potential." "I know, Courtney. I hate to see him so down like that. But like he said, he did it himself, and we do have to pay the penalty for wrong choices. But I did mean it when I told him we'd help him if we could." The two continued their day, and their preparation for the next year of college. The day finally came. Both of them were packed (though of course Courtney had much more than Tony did, so he would be taking some of her suitcases in his car for her) and the plan was simple. Courtney would drive her car with Mr. Barnes going along with her. Tony would have Mrs. Barnes as a passenger. The parents were going along to help her get settled in and so forth-and say goodbye to their little girl, who was now out in the world somewhat on her own. Then they would fly back to Florida and take a cab back to their home, though Tony's mom offered to come and pick them up. They initially declined, though eventually accepted the offer. They all were practically family already, after all. Courtney made sure that she had packed a certified copy of her revised birth certificate. Since she had completed all surgical procedures, she was physically and legally a female, provisionally recognized as such in all fifty states, but you never knew what some conservative jurisdictions might decide to do to impede her right to live her life. With a legal birth certificate, and a physician's letter stating the facts, she was hoping that she wouldn't have any problems. She would have liked to have had a roommate, but as a group, they had decided that one of the few private rooms, with a private bath was more appropriate for her, at least until things settled down and she became more of a known quantity. And naturally, next year it wouldn't be a problem, she and Tony would either be in married student housing, or in an off-campus apartment. They got to the campus, the Barnes' drove to Courtney's dorm (Tony had drawn them a map with very good directions) while Tony went to the athletic dorm to check in. Since it wasn't his season, he wasn't on any restrictions as to hours or anything else, so after he dropped his things on his bed (the same one he had occupied for the last three years, with the same roommate (another wrestler)), he drove over to the women's housing area to help Courtney get her substantial amount of clothing and such up to her room. Her dad was glad to see him, they needed his young muscles to get everything where it needed to be. "Thank goodness for elevators" Tony thought. When they were finished, Courtney and her mom started decorating as much as possible while the men went downstairs for a conversation. "Tony, you know if it were anyone but you, I wouldn't have let my daughter be on the same campus with her long-time boyfriend, don't you? I trust the two of you to control yourselves, but I know that young people can get carried away without meaning to. Please don't let me down." "Mr. Barnes, you've known me for four years. I've never 'taken liberties', as Mrs. Barnes once put it, with Courtney yet, and I'm not going to start now. We're both saving ourselves for our wedding night, and it'll be so much sweeter knowing that we did that, kept ourselves pure only for each other in a lifetime commitment, sanctified by God." "Tony, I know that, but here you are almost a thousand miles from home, unchaperoned with my little girl for almost a year, with only a few visits back to Florida. I'm her father, you know I had to say that, right? And another thing-Courtney is a very pretty girl. We hear all kinds of stories of young women at college being taken advantage of and raped-I know you'll protect her from that, of course." "You're kidding, right? First of all, I can't see either one of us going to a party with drinking and such, especially at a fraternity. I was asked to join one several times over the years, and I haven't yet, and don't plan on it, I know what goes on. She doesn't have a roommate so she won't be tempted to accompany one to those types of parties. Anywhere we go, except for purely female activities or team practices, we'll most likely be together you know." The moving in continued, Courtney's parents took them out for dinner to a nice restaurant that Tony knew about, and the next morning, Tony drove them to the airport and they left. The college year had begun. Only a few people on campus, all from administration, knew about Courtney's special situation, and they were all under legal orders to keep it a secret. None of her teachers would know, and neither would any other students. Her relationship with Tony helped, especially with the ring shining on her finger. While OSU had a physical education requirement, Courtney was exempt for at least her first semester, and maybe her entire freshman year, she could make it up later. She had checked the catalog, and (against Tony's wishes, though he wouldn't forbid her from doing it) she planned on taking the Tae Kwon Do classes offered on campus, as well as joining the TKD club at the rec center. But that would have to be after the Christmas break. She had decided that she would be a counselor, especially for other Transgender youth. For that she would need at least a Master's Degree in Psychology, perhaps even a Doctorate. She would be busy for many years to come, though since pregnancy obviously wasn't an option for her, she wouldn't have motherhood as a distraction from her studies. Tony was pre-law, and hoped to attend Law School right there at OSU. He would get his Juris Doctor degree at the same time Courtney graduated with her Bachelors. That worked out perfectly. Courtney visited the TKD club at its first training night to meet the instructor and the other students. She found that there was one Black Belt instructor (a Nidan, second degree) and two other brown belt students, one an Ikkyu (first grade), and the other a sankyu (third grade, so Courtney outranked him). The senior female student was a sixth kyu green belt, with a few more scattered in the white and yellow belt grades. The seniors were happy to meet her and couldn't wait for her to formally join, so they could take advantage of her knowledge, especially working with the girls. She explained that she had just had serious surgery for a medical condition (she didn't go into detail, of course) and that she couldn't really work out until January, but she could do basics and light kata until then. The sensei told her that the club did its own promoting up through first kyu, and that a senior black belt from town did black belt examinations once a year if necessary. They did, however, accept rank and promotions from any recognized TKD school. Courtney thanked him, and explained that she really only wanted to accept rank from either her own Sabonim, or from the head of their system, who she was careful not to name. She wasn't at all ashamed of being a Rainbow Dragon Brown Belt, but she simply felt that it was safer, at least in the beginning, not to go too deeply into her life. She told him that she would work out with them, and would be glad to assistant instruct later on if he wished. After class, she went back to her dorm and checked in with Tony. Classes started the way they did at most colleges, with Tony taking advanced subjects and getting ready for his LSATs. Tony was pre-law, which was part of the Political Science department. Even though OSU was a somewhat conservative school, with a large Christian presence on campus, Tony had idealogical problems with some of his professors. While studying the Constitution, Tony felt that the founders had meant Christianity when they wrote about religious freedom, to prevent one denomination taking control over all the others, while his professor held that religious freedom applied equally to all faiths, or even atheism. Thus, to Professor Jonas, Islam, Buddhism, and even Wicca were equally valid and were entitled to protection. Tony wouldn't change his mind, though he explained his position respectfully, and luckily for him, academic freedom was a reality on the OSU campus. Based on his views, he felt that work for a conservative 'think-tank' would be his best option for after he received his degree and passed the bar. Courtney, on the other hand was taking mostly basic courses to meet general college requirements. English Composition, Chemistry, Calculus (she qualified based on her High School record, Algebra or Pre-Calculus would have met the requirement just as well), Psychology 1 and Sociology 1 rounded out her schedule. She was currently exempt from gym, though she would have to take two courses later, and health would come up next semester. She would also have to take some Biology courses along the way too, for her Psychology degree. OSU had a graduate school, with several Master's Degrees in Psychology offered, though most universities had similar programs. She would probably go to graduate school wherever Tony got a job after he finished Law School. There was a course in Gender Diversity offered to juniors and seniors in the psych program that looked interesting, and she looked forward to taking it in a few years. She was intelligent enough, however, to know that letting the class in on her own 'diversity' would not be a very smart thing to do, and it would open Tony up to some criticism and ridicule also. No, nobody needed to know about her, except Tony, and he was fine with it, had been from the beginning, and they looked forward to sharing their lives together after the next summer. She was going to be the best wife to him that she could, in every possible way. She giggled to herself "occasional visits to Victoria's Secret will help with that. We'll be married, so we can be as intimate as we want as often as we want. I'm gonna rock his world on our wedding night." The semester went on. Both were making A grades in all of their courses, and for Tony, conditioning for the winter wrestling season began. He had a chance to take the nationals this year as the top ranked heavyweight, if he could just gain a little more muscle mass. Courtney did some light training with the TKD club and helped with some of the junior students. As a brown belt, she did go to some tournaments and help as a timer or scorekeeper, just to keep herself as part of the Martial Arts world until she could seriously train again. It was at one of those tournaments, at Oklahoma City, that she had a very interesting experience. She always wore a plain white uniform, with no patches of any kind, not even the OSU club patch. She had two plain uniforms with her at school, with all of her uniforms bearing the Rainbow Dragon patch left at home (including one black one). At the OC tournament, where she had signed up as scorekeeper, she saw a group actually wearing Rainbow Dragon patches, including a woman in her thirties with six gold stripes on her Black Belt. "Ohmygod, that's Master Cole! I just have to go over and introduce myself to her." Courtney walked over to the group, stood in front of Master Cole and politely bowed. "Excuse me, ma'am, my name is Courtney Barnes, and I'm a Rainbow Dragon student from Dunedin, Florida. I didn't get to meet you last summer when you visited, because I was having a 'medical procedure' done, and was in no shape to train." "Nice to meet you, Courtney, I've heard about you. Your instructor had some nice things to say, and I'm sorry we couldn't meet then also. I understand we have something in common?" "Yes, we do-and that was the procedure I had, and that's why I'm still not able to train. But I do come to these and help out where I can, and I do help as an assistant instructor with the OSU club." "That's great, Courtney, but I do have just one question. May I ask why you aren't wearing your patch?" "Ma'am, OSU is a very conservative campus, with several other clubs. They know us, and still use the derogatory terms for us, and I'm trying, for the moment to keep stealth, even though I'm now legally female. When I get home, I'll wear it, and will continue to wherever I go after college." "I'm happy to hear that, Courtney. I know you're up for first Gup, and, soon to be First Degree Black Belt. I would hate to award that to someone who wasn't proud of the organization." "You know what ma'am-I think you're right. If you have any extra patches, I'll sew them on my uniforms as soon as I get back to campus. I haven't hidden who I was all these years, and I shouldn't start now. If the club has a problem with it, I'll work out alone, or offer lessons to other GLBT students on campus. My instructor predicted it would come to that." "Smart man. Oops, looks like they're getting ready to bow in-do you have a ring assignment?" "Yup-ring 4, starting with mini white and yellow belts-they're always fun." "All right Courtney, I'm over in seven, but someday soon I hope to see you at one of these with a black belt and actually judging-and competing." The two women bowed to each other and went to their assignments. Courtney had a wonderful day helping out, and was so happy to have met her system grandmaster-who actually knew about her! The year went on-classes, lots of dates with Tony, football games and other normal college activities. Courtney, even though she was wearing her ring, and was often seen with Tony, was often asked out by other college men-all of whom she refused. She loved Tony, couldn't wait to be his wife, and wasn't going to do anything to spoil that or give him cause to mistrust her. Christmas break finally came, and they drove home together in Tony's Firebird. Both of them brought only the things they would absolutely need, Courtney especially since she had plenty of clothes at home. The drive took the better part of a day, and they were both tired, so Tony dropped his fianc?e off, kissed her tenderly, and then drove home himself, dropping quickly off to sleep. Courtney, however found a strange message waiting for her when she got in. Her instructor had asked her to attend class the night after she got home, and wear her uniform. She was surprised, even though she had planned on visiting anyway, although not in uniform, since she wouldn't be cleared to train for at least a few more weeks. But she decided to comply with the request. The two of them spent the day together, of course, with part of it lounging in Tony's pool (it was an unusually hot winter, even for Florida). Tony still felt that it wasn't too wise for them to spend much time together in bathing suits, especially since Courtney had grown up, but a short swim wouldn't hurt anything if they were careful. They looked up some friends, had lunch together, and then Courtney had to leave to get to her dojang. Tony wasn't pleased, but he understood her dedication to her art. Nothing was going to change her mind, and he wasn't going to try. She went home and changed into her uniform-one with a Rainbow Dragon patch prominently displayed on the left breast. "Finally-and I can understand why Master Cole was disappointed in me. It's never coming off again-I'm proud of who I am, and I'm proud of my school. If someone doesn't like it, too bad-I can handle it." She left for the dojang. When she got there, she received a surprise. She was welcomed by her fellow students, all of whom were in attendance. It was the basic class, but the advanced students were there also. She got in line for bow-in, and did what she could, lightly. She went through basics, one- steps, and kata practice, up to and including the Black Belt form Chung- Moo. She had been having trouble with it, but she at least knew the moves. Now all she had to do was perfect it. She had to sit out for the free-sparring, though. All of her friends were glad to see her back, and couldn't wait for the summer when she would be able to train full-time, or so they thought. What most of them didn't know was that the next summer would be spent planning a wedding, and three months wasn't usually enough time to do that. It would help that it would be a small one, with only close friends and accepting family members of both the bride and groom being invited. When class was completed, instead of the normal bow-out, Courtney Barnes received a surprise, one she definitely wasn't expecting. The instructor had them get into a line by rank (Courtney was near the front) and kneel down. Her name was called and she rose, and advanced to stand in front of her instructor, where she bowed. He pulled out a piece of paper, actually a certificate, and announced that she had been promoted to the rank of first gup, the last rank before Black Belt. She was now entitled to put a third stripe on her brown belt, one which she probably wouldn't be wearing for very long, since it was well-known she was on a fast track for black belt status at some point. Everyone congratulated her, and then the class slowly broke up and everyone left. Courtney, of course went over to Tony's house to give him the news, and just to spend some more time with him. They decided to work on their guest list a few days later. Tracy and Stephanie were asked to be bridesmaids, which they happily agreed to. Courtney's friend Penny from camp was going to be the Maid of Honor, unsurprisingly. Tony was going to ask his friends Carl and John to be ushers, with one of HIS cousins as best man. The entire guest list would be no more than about one hundred people. They were hoping to have the wedding at Tony's church (Courtney didn't have one), with Pastor Bob officiating. If they couldn't use the church (some people still objected to Courtney) he promised to marry them at another venue. They had a long discussion as to whether or not to invite Shannon, and finally decided to-either they forgave him or they didn't. If they did, then he should be asked to attend. Courtney wasn't as strong in her faith as Tony was, but she did go along, as she knew it was the right thing to do. Also, their gay friends Dave and Ted would be invited as a couple, as they were now in a committed relationship, preparing to marry themselves, now that it was legal. That summer, Courtney, her mom and her bridesmaids spent several days at some of the town's nicest bridal shops looking for her dress. She found it at a privately owned salon, without the need to mention that Courtney had been, at one time a male, though that was obviously not the case now. Pastor Bob informed them that the church board had approved holding the wedding in their chapel, and a hotel had been booked for the reception. Everything was coming together for the couple's big day, and the start of their life together. A few days before the wedding, Courtney's female friends and relatives had a shower for her, with all the trappings that young women generally enjoy at such a gathering. While there was no mention of future pregnancies (since for Courtney they were impossible), everything else was as normal as could be. Lots of gifts (including some VERY enticing lingerie just for the honeymoon), household items that they would need, some gift cards that would come in handy, etc. The usual shower games were played (who knows the bride and groom best, what's in your purse, who's got a pedicure, and all the others). None of the girls could wait-Tony and were so much in love, and so deserved to have this finally occur. Her friend Penny was a hit with all the Florida ladies-even though she had gone through part of male puberty before her parents had allowed her blockers and she would never be an NFL Cheerleader, she was a lovely person, very friendly and personable, and Courtney's oldest and dearest friend, in addition to being the only woman at the party who really understood what Courtney had been, and was still going through. They had several years of their New England summer camp just for trans- kids in common. Courtney had been very considerate in the choice of dresses for her attendants-they all looked lovely in them, they could be worn later for other formal functions, and she had done her best to keep the cost down. Courtney Barnes had no intention of even coming close to being a 'bridezilla'. She was too nice for that. Tony's friends had also taken him out for a 'bachelor party'. Knowing Tony, there would be no hookers, girls jumping out of cakes, stag films or excessive drinking. John was only 19 anyway, so he couldn't drink in public. The others were all over 21, and none of them, including Tony were opposed to the moderate use of alcohol, so they had few beers with their dinner, and John was appointed designated driver. They discussed all they had been through, from first meeting Courtney and their eventually acceptance of her as a woman, the couple's plans for the future, how they could stay in touch, the Shannon situation (they all agreed he had paid his debt and deserved to be given a chance to get his life together and they would all be glad to help him if he needed it and asked them). In short, it was a wonderful evening for Tony and his male friends to get together for some 'guy time'. As the evening was winding down and some of the guests were leaving, Courtney's dad pulled Tony aside for the usual pre-wedding future son in law talk. It wasn't hard, Tony and Mr. Barnes had been close friends for five years, just after Tony befriended Courtney and then started dating her. Everyone still remembered the shock of seeing her wearing Tony's wrestling pin. Even if she had been born a natural female, a senior boy and a freshman girl dating was almost unheard of. It had worked out great for everyone, though. A week before the end of the summer, it was a bright, sunshiny day, moderate temperature (for Florida) and no rain in sight. It was the morning of the big day, by the end of it, Tony and Courtney would finally be husband and wife, with a married student apartment reserved at OSU. Tony had it easy, it wouldn't take long to shower and shave, jump into his tux, check for the donation envelope and ring, and have his cousin drive him to Pastor Bob's church. Of course, his mom took longer, even though she was in her 40s, she was still quite beautiful and liked to look and dress the part. The bridesmaids were in blue (naturally!), so she chose a bright green for her gown (mother of the groom), with matching shoes. She spent a long time on her makeup (she'd been to the nail salon the day before) but not so much that she'd take any attention from Courtney or her mother. It was Courtney's day to shine. And she did. Mr. Barnes had written the check for a hairdresser/makeup artist/nail tech team to come to the house to help Courtney get ready. Mrs. Barnes had chosen the team, of course, his job was simply to write checks and provide a credit card while the women took care of things. And they did-when they were finished, Courtney looked like a princess in her long, ultra-feminine white gown. Always one for minimal makeup (most of the time), she had used a little more than she usually did, especially on her eyes, though her lips shone with a dark pink gloss, to match her nails. There were crystal and pearl beads all over the dress, and she wore a platinum and sapphire comb in her hair. A silver and sapphire pendant that had belonged originally to her great-grandmother hung around her neck. It took her, her hired team, her attendants and her mom considerably longer to get her ready than it did for Tony to jump into his tux-and Courtney loved every minute of it, being able to enjoy one of the ultimate female experiences (another would come that night, though she would miss out on the most defining one, pregnancy and childbirth, but she could adopt). The limo came, Courtney and her friends climbed into it, her parents took off in their car, and the wedding was in motion. At the church, Carl and John were in dark blue tuxes, seating people as they entered. With the exception of a few family members from both families, most people were friends of both Tony and Courtney, so it didn't matter which side they sat on. Shannon, when asked, chose to sit on the groom's side, as he didn't know how the bride's family would react to him. A few of Courtney's friends from summer camp and/or her tg support group attended and sat on her side. Some of the girls didn't pass as genetic women all that well, but they were all welcomed and no one stared or commented in any way, even some of the more elderly relatives in attendance. Finally, the ceremony began. Tony and his groomsmen took their places at the front, while the organist finished the prelude music and began to play the traditional 'Here Comes the Bride' theme. A six year old girl, one of Courtney's distant relatives (her mom's cousin's niece or something like that) started up the aisle with a basket of flowers, followed by an eight year old cousin of Tony's carrying a ring pillow (not real, of course). Tracy came next, followed by Stephanie a few steps later. A bit after that came the Maid of Honor, Penny, though inside, she felt somewhat nervous being on display like this. But Court was her best friend and she was honored to be asked to do this for her. Finally, Courtney and her father came down the rose strewn aisle, with her holding onto his arm. They reached the front, they faced each other, he pulled back her veil and kissed her. He shook hands with Tony, gave him her hand, smiled, and sat down next to his wife. Pastor Bob was at the front already, and began the introduction to the day's celebration, outlining the responsibilities of the two as a married couple. This included Tony's duties to love and protect his wife, and, since it was a reasonably conservative church in many ways, Courtney's duty to love and obey her husband (again, largely symbolic). He then asked the formal question "Who giveth this woman to be married?" Courtney's father answered just as formally 'Her mother and I do'. The ceremony continued on through the readings chosen by the couple, the ritual objection question (Courtney had laughingly threatened to throttle anyone (which everyone remembered that she was quite capable of) who even coughed at that point!), and finally, the exchange of rings and vows. Finally, the also ritual, though a little late, charge 'You may now kiss the bride'. The organist began the recessional, and the two, followed by their attendants, filed out of the church to a waiting limo for the drive to the reception hall, where a modest, though very nice party was to be held. While alcoholic beverages were available, such as beer, wine and wine coolers, hard liquor was not, as both were opposed to drunkenness, though not to the use of alcohol in moderation. The two had the usual first dance, followed by most of the other reception traditions (they both decided to pass on the 'garter on the bride's leg' event). They were congratulated by their friends, Shannon told them how grateful he was to have been invited and wished them the best of happiness, and Courtney went from table to table greeting her guests and carrying the traditional bag receiving cards with checks enclosed. Finally, the party began to wind down, the guests left, Courtney had a private conversation with her mother (largely unnecessary), and the two got into Tony's Firebird to drive to a nice hotel for the night. They would leave in the morning, after a short visit to the Ba