The Wedding Date 9 free porn video

The Wedding Date By Jena Corso Edited by Lindsay Houghton Chapter Nine That Sunday Gary would come over with his x-box and hang out with his best friend playing video games like they normally had. Jokes would fly about Lee's girly room and that Gary's picture would be face down on the dresser when he got there but mostly, they were happy to be together. Black leggings, mismatched ankle socks and a big sweatshirt wouldn't be terribly different than sweats and hoodie like he normally would have been in, but long twin Dutch braids and a casually made-up face would make all the difference. Was it a true date or not that things seemed fairly normal, neither one of them was sure as it felt like their regular play date yet, neither one of them wanted to ask the other? There would be excuses when Lee lost blaming his nails for hitting a button by accident and wise cracks by Gary that maybe he should go easy on him being a girl. A nudge here and an elbow there for advantage as they sat side by side would be playful and not previously uncommon but nasty looks shot Gary's way behind full lashes when he cheated, or a girly slap would send mixed messages. A braid whipping off Gary's cheek bone when Lee jumped up in celebration mocking him, he'd chalk up to accident but Lee recoating his lips with a clear gloss right next to him after finishing his soda would make Gary's head spin. Were they hints, his friend's continual adaptations or even casual flirtations? Gary wished he knew as he wanted just as much to grip the joystick in his own pants, but he did his best to stay calm. Allison would come in and out serving and feeding them like nothing had ever changed yet then why did he feel like it was different, like she was checking up on them? Gary knew besides his kiddie cousins, he was the only boy who'd been in this new room and he did feel guilty that he was at least part to blame that Lee's summer journey would be without some of the other kids he also hung out with. He was afraid to ask if and when he'd tell the other guys Lee knew about his current lifestyle but that would be a subject he'd avoid as things between them seemed so perfect. This though lasted all summer as their dates would never be solo and they would see each other a few times a week. Sunday play dates with a few weeknights mixed in, plenty of time sitting the cousins and family events with his girlfriend became truly routine as Lauren's wedding approached. It would be the eve of Lauen's wedding just after picking up his dress when his mother was dropping Lee off at the salon when so much ultimately began hitting him. "So, you getting out?" said his mother after she had pulled over and he didn't move. "Keleigh?" "Oh," said Lee staring out the window. "Didn't realize we were here already." "You ok?" questioned his mother. "I'm fine," said Lee turning towards her. "You sure?" said his mother giving him a look. "Because I think Lauren would understand if you really don't want to get highlights." "Trust me she wouldn't." Lee smiled, reaching over grabbing her wrist. "And I'd never do that to her. I mean that's not what defines me right?" "A hair color that can be undone?" said his mother squeezing his hand then looking him dead in the face. "Of course not. So, what's going on then?" "It's not what's going on," said Lee taking a breath. "It's what has gone on mom." "Ah, so that's what you meant by we're here already," smiled his mother rubbing his thumb. "Kind of," said Lee looking down. "The summer flew by and I..." "You don't have to do anything you don't want to honey," interrupted his mother squeezing his hand. "Look at me Keleigh! There is no timetable on these things." "It kind of feels like there is and I'm not talking about getting some highlights or being in a wedding," said Lee looking into her eyes getting emotional. "Yeah, I was waiting for that decision about you accepting the scholarship or not," said his mother reaching over touching his face. "That part there is a deadline on but not the rest." "And if I say no, will you be mad at me?" said Lee pulling down her hand. "Of course not," said his mother getting more serious. "So, did my answer surprise you honestly?" "A little," said Lee shrugging his shoulders. "But she will." "Rita? Trust me she'll get over it," said his mother lifting his chin. "So, is that the way you're leaning?" "No," said Lee looking at her before a soft smile filled his face. "But you already knew that didn't you?" "You've wanted to be an actor since you've been a little kid," grinned his mother. "So, yes but I'd never pressure you and even if you don't do this it's not like it would be the end of that dream." "Yeah, but it would really help," said Lee taking a breath. "It could really make a difference." "Then what's the hesitation?" questioned his mother. "You're asking me that while you're dropping off me to get highlights done?" smirked Lee. "And your nails done which you've let get way too long," joked his mother. "For a flower girl," smiled Lee extending his long nails staring at them. "Yeah?" "Who if I recall agreed to the part?" asked his mother. "Didn't she my favorite actress?" "She did," said Lee nodding his head before then giving her a look. "And while I'm not thrilled with the role it's the future, of course, and not my roles that have me stressing mom." "So, is it Gary?" questioned his mother. "Because I'm pretty sure you can do no wrong when it comes to him, and he'll support you no matter what happens with you two." "It's not just him," said Lee squishing his cheeks. "But you really think he would?" "Has he not the whole summer?" said his mother shaking her head. "I mean I'm not 100% sure he hasn't been an even better friend than I could have imagined he'd be especially when I've seen how he's left." "What does that mean?" said Lee getting annoyed. "Meaning exasperated! He's a boy," laughed Allison tapping his arm. "Meaning I know he wants more than you're willing to give, and it's frustrating him, but he cares too much for you to push you harder." "Wish his mother wouldn't," joked Lee rolling his eyes. "Or I wouldn't be a flower girl." "I wasn't talking about her and again you can't blame her for that," said his mother getting stern with him. "That's on you, young lady." "And that's what makes some of this even harder," sighed Lee closing his eyes shaking his head. "We joke around and still get comfortable with each other but... you know." "No, only you know, and I think I know what I see but that's not the answer," said his mother grabbing the handle. "Get out princess. No one is going to live your life or walk in your shoes." "But mom," said Lee looking back. "Is not about to treat you like some little flower girl even if you're going to look adorable as one." said his mother signaling him to get out. "Have a good time tonight and I'll be there to get you after the rehearsal dinner." "But I don't know what to do mom," groaned Lee not wanting to step out. "I have to decide about school and the scholarship by Monday which is the day after the wedding. It's Saturday afternoon and I'm barely going to have time to think!" "None of which is a surprise and like you haven't thought about it constantly," said his mother shaking her head. "I know," sighed Lee putting his head down. "I just wish it was easier." "Was it easier last time you soaked your nails off? Because you did pretty well last time you had to think and make a decision after you were really busy with that wedding and all the functions," lectured his mother rubbing his arm. "This time you're getting highlights too. Nails and a head full of foils together should give you even more uninterrupted time to make decisions and not excuses." "So, then you already know what I should do," sighed Lee getting upset. "And you're not going to help?" "Help carry in your dress or the bag with your shoes in it," smiled his mother reaching into the back seat grabbing the hanger and handle. "No, but I'd love to talk later when you stop feeling sorry for yourself? You could have way, way bigger worries and unfortunately someday probably will." "You're right," nodded Lee ashamed taking the stuff getting out. "Is that a promise if I do?" "You kidding? I'm looking forward to talking with my child tonight with your hair looking sun kissed which will remind me of the little rascal when the sun did it naturally," winked his mother talking to him through the passenger door. "Relax your mind honey, and let it take you back to a time without any outside pressures. That little kid is still inside you. I'll be all ears listening too. Now close my door and be honest with yourself before we talk tonight. That's how I'll help you." Into the salon he walked carrying his garment bag and bag of accessories as inside Lauren would be there waiting for him with her head full of rollers immediately hugging him. After a few minutes of having to listen to her bitching, he was hers as she commanded the room and he expected nothing different knowing her too well by now. Complaints about this and that would go in one ear and out the other. But his mind was absorbed with his own dilemmas as mercifully it would be his turn to sit for a nail tech and not have to pretend to listen anymore. He soaked off his favorite long teen queen nails only to have them replaced with French tips barely past the flesh on his fingers, yet he felt totally un-bothered by it. It would take a while to fully tune out all the surrounding drama but by the time his wet nails were under the dryer, he was becoming immune to everything around him. A few bridesmaids debating behind him would barely register when finally, they moved him back to the chair to start his toes. He had always been annoyed by anything used to separate his toes but today it didn't bother him as his mind was elsewhere. Even when eventually his toes took their turn under the dryer and he was ordered to sit like a mannequin as they began ripping out his extensions from behind, he sat motionless flaring his nails to keep them air fanned out and just following commands like a robot. Normally he would have felt self-conscious seeing his long nail tips discarded and completely stressed with the wefts tossed aside but not today as vanity would take a backseat. A glimpse of what he assumed might be part of his former extensions on the counter as they had him get up would cause some uneasy stirring in his stomach but his long hair sliding into his eyes as he walked would remind him it was still mostly there. He went to get washed out as they seated him and then as his chair went back his mind felt blank as he stared up at the lights. Under the water with his hair being washed his mind would be cleaned of anxiety and the soothing conditioner would bring some tranquility. When his chair returned upright it was almost like he never felt the ground walking to the stylist's chair and then a quick raking of her comb would do nothing to brush away his zen. On any other day he might have freaked out from nerves as the Bridezilla in rollers lectured his stylist, but he was used to Lauren these days barely paying any mind just nodding at every suggestion never raising a question. He looked over seeing Emma and Erin in their glory just to be there being fussed over and without a care in the world knowing his mother was right. He should think like they could before any of the non- sense mattered. Snips of stylist's scissor would never register as he channeled their innocence and bridesmaid's constant chatter would be like passive background music. Every once and a while he would peek open his eyes seeing girls buzzing past him in a huff yet as his head filled with foil he found peace in this tin foil serenity. Under the hot lights they put him when every section had been painted yet instead of feeling overheated all he could think of would be the warmth of his mother's love. In a way he was now looking forward to being that little kid again who's hair had been bleached by the sun wanting to hold her hand and follow her blindly without a care in the world. Back to the chair he would be taken as the foils cooled down and then the makeup artist would work on his face. It was like a factory line of women as he watched a few girls jump from one to the other then Holly tapped him when he was done. "You ok?" said Holly inspecting him moving his face. "Your makeup came out so cute." "Yeah, just chilling," smiled Lee looking up at her. "Thanks. How much could they do on me anyway? Simple tones and downplaying my teens, right? A little weird to me still but who am I to complain." "Smart girl," laughed Holly. "Best thing at these is to just stay out of the way. Especially the bride's way and if you think she's insane before her rehearsal dinner just wait until tomorrow." "I figured," said Lee staring at her. "And you already look amazing Holly." "Thanks, my future JB. Now ready? Let's so Foil Selfie," teased Holly, pulling out her phone and then snapping a shot of them making kissy faces with both their heads filled with foils. "My mom made you do that didn't she?" laughed Lee playing along. "Like she had to," laughed Holly tapping his arm. "Come on get up. Let's get you dressed." "Where are we going?" asked Lee as she dragged him by the hand. "Holly I kind of don't need help." "Yeah, consider this me saving you since inspector Rita just came out from under the dryer and you can't do your tights with your nails wet can you?" said Holly closing the dressing room door and pulling off his plastic cape. "With these nails?" said Lee as immediately she spun him around helping him off with his top. "I probably can, and I feel like I've been here forever already so shouldn't they be dry enough by now?" "Probably, but we're not chancing it and if you ruin one or rip the tights Lauren will pop a blood vessel," joked Holly helping him off with his skirt. "And smart move with a top you can get over the foils. I stupidly was not as smart." "Like I thought of that? My mom's idea," sighed Lee kicking off his sandals lifting his foot for her. "She's amazing." "You're a lucky girl," said Holly wrapping the tights over his left foot. "Hold my shoulder sis." "Thanks," said Lee stepping into the other side. "And thanks for making me feel like one all summer." "Wait!" said Holly snapping the waist band. "That's not your way of telling me you're begging out of being my junior bridesmaid, is it?" "Been doing a lot of thinking but no," smiled Lee as she unclipped his bra pulling it away. "Everyone else's girl though I'm still not so sure about." "Gary's not going to like that," said Holly holding open the dress. "Step in Keleigh." "Nothing's decided yet and I was thinking he's not going to like me in this more," said Lee as she zipped him up. "Maybe not," giggled Holly dropping his flats at his feet. "But not everything in life is about that spoiled brat. And I've been with you at the fittings so we both know you're going to look adorable in this." "Like a flat chested pre-teen at the rehearsal dinner trying not to act my age," said Lee tossing up his hands. "Quite the stretch don't ya think?" "A little late to complain," said Holly messing taking the little pads out of his bra. "And this is not a dress meant to wear a bra with like you're used to wearing obviously but, I can give you at least a little something I think." "Not sure that's going to make much of a difference," looking down as she shoved some pads in the cup area. "Yeah, no good. They'll slide everywhere," said Holly pulling them out and then looking down in the bag. "But wait! Did you forget to mention you had a little strapless training bra for this?" "If I knew I had one or what that was then maybe," said Lee embarrassed as she slipped it around him. "I kind of missed that training bra period in case you forgot." "Honestly, the only time I remember is when you bring it up," smiled Holly fixing his dress atop it and re-zipping it. "And at least this gives you a little shape." "It's that bad?" asked Lee as she stepped back looking. "Keleigh, I have yet to see you look bad and trust me, this will not be the day," said Holly looking him up and down. "Ok," nodded Lee tossing out his hands. "You're sure, right?" "Sure that Lauren's a fucking psycho bride but the bitch has great taste so I'm dying to see you when your hair's finished," said Holly digging in the bag pulling out a bracelet. "This dress is actually so freaking cute on you, and I wasn't sure at first, but it honestly looks that good on you." "It's because I'm short, isn't it?" said Lee as she looped the bracelet on his wrist. "Well, that doesn't hurt and you're always saying what a great actress you are," smiled Holly shrugging her shoulders. "Let's hope so," grinned Lee as she squeezed his hand. "All you need to hope for is to not show up the bride being so damn pretty so stop worrying and we need to get back out there now," said Holly looping his cape back over the dress. "And it wasn't that long ago you moaned it was a stretch wearing the same dress your date wore except you rocked the shit out of it." "Like I could forget," said Lee as she snapped it around his neck. "The huge picture is right in my face every day hanging in my pink room." "Cause, you rock it little sis? And don't worry, even as adorable as this is on you," said Holly changing his earrings. "Not happening when I get married. Junior bridesmaid dresses are only slightly different, so you'll be rocking almost the same dress as the real bridesmaids." "Real girls. Real dresses," grinned Lee as she screwed on the second earring's post. "Makes sense for just about the entire bridal party, doesn't it?" "Then go snip that shit off and get it over with," blurted Holly snapping her fingers and then opening the door. "I might look like I'm your babysitter with you like this today but we both know I'm not as good a one as you are you freaking diva so get your mind right." "Wish it was all that easy," sighed Lee not expecting her to get tough with him. "Beside how easy has it been for you to be this little debutant? Nothing good ever comes that easy," said Holly turning her back on him and walking out. "Go get that crap off your head and the rest of the crap out of it." As he followed her out, he'd be immediately called over by his hairdresser. A few checks of his foils would lead to her taking him to the sink and removing them, then having his hair washed out as he sat with his eyes closed. His mind raced, again filled with Holly's remarks and so many thoughts as it felt like he had been there all day, and yet in a way, he was back where he started. Eventually he was back in the stylist chair as she blew out his hair and he just sat in space daydreaming as the hairdresser flat ironed it. Three hours in the salon running through scenarios in his head would clear up a few things in his mind, but it would be what he thought his mother expected from him that had him leaning in certain directions. Holly's remarks, Mrs. Baxter's constant digs and every thought about Gary today would have no influence as he realized for the first time since he'd been out with the Baxter family as Keleigh that today was different. For a change he wasn't so much being asked to be there as Gary's squeeze or even the babysitter but instead, today he was in a way, a different girl. Today he was in a wedding. "Keleigh," said Lauren waving her hand past his face. "Earth to Keleigh!" "Oh," said Lee shaken from his trance. "Hey Lauren." "Listen, first of all never shake your head while there's a hot iron an inch from your cheek bone and did you hear everything I said?" bitched Lauren. "Sorry. Some of it," said Lee sitting there feeling his hair being tugged a bit from behind. "Some of it?" cringed Lauren looking ready to explode and then yelling at the hairdresser. "Are you fucking kidding me, and could you finish her already?" "The kids are bouncing off the wall and why are you still not ready?" scolded Lauren as the woman went behind his head flat ironing. "I know you're a freaking prima donna, but I was depending on you to help here? If they get dirty or look a wreck before we even leave today, can you imagine how crazy they'll be tomorrow? In fucking white dresses?" "I'm sorry, I was just sitting here doing whatever I was told," panicked Lee not knowing what to do, frozen stiff under her wrath. "I didn't know I was supposed to be watching them and how am I supposed to do that while they're getting me ready myself?" "Do you know how selfish you sound and please already with her hair!" spat Lauren, red faced inspecting him and looking at the hairdresser as she was making some minor trims. "Spin her around and let me see the back because I still think it's not short enough, and the second you're out of this chair Keleigh, you do not leave their sides." "Sure, but I thought I was supposed to..." started Lee, happy to be spun away from her before she jumped down his throat as he heard more trimming behind his neck. "Supposed to jump when the bride tells you anything you little fucking princess! Do you know how stressed I am?" said Lauren, almost like steam was coming out of her ears as he felt the woman move his head. "You are seriously not going to make me regret putting you in my bridal party, are you?" "Calm the fuck down!" said Holly coming up and putting her arm over Lauren's back. "She's already dressed and ready to go the second your girl finishes her!" "Oh! I'm so tense and that's perfect now," grumbled Lauren calming down and nodding to the hairdresser and then a sea of hairspray came raining down from behind on Lee. "I'm sorry everyone and thank gawdd you're so cooperative Keleigh!" "Of course," nodded Lee as around came his chair before the woman quickly covered his eyes spraying. "I promise you'll get no trouble from me." "Jezz, even if you were a little trouble, you came out so beautiful," smiled Lauren as the hairdresser stepped away. "I love, love, love this on her!" "Like everything doesn't look good on her you crazy fu.... Huugghhh," sighed Holly covering her mouth as the woman unsnapped his cape pulling it away. "Holy shit Lauren!" "Oh, my gawdd! I'm getting so excited about this now too," said Lauren holding her chest beaming. "My little cousins are driving me nuts all pissy over what I had done to their hair, and I thought you'd be the difficult one." "Me? I knew I was getting highlights and what I was in for in your wedding but even my mom was for them, but the kids got them too?" said Lee confused. "My mom hoped it would remind her of me when I was little when the sun used to do it naturally. So, are they even old enough?" "Of course, they aren't," said Lauren grabbing Holly's arm getting giddy. "Can you please stand up so I can really see the whole look?" "Oh! Sure," said Lee sliding from the chair. "I'm not sure I understand then." "You're about to," said Holly half covering her mouth. "And I don't think I'll need to worry about her looking anything like she will in my wedding anymore." "Emma, Erin, come see how gorgeous Keleigh turned out," said Lauren clapping her hands calling them over. "When they see you looking almost like their big sister they'll be no complaining about any of your haircuts being so drastic." "Drastic!" gulped Lee seeing the girls hurry his way. He needed a second just staring at them as they were cousins not sisters except maybe not today. Sure, they had similar features, olive brown eyes, long dirty blonde locks and were only 2 years apart but today if it weren't for a size difference, they looked like clones. In identical formal lilac dresses, they sprinted his way stopping short of how they usually hugged him staring as much at him as he stared at them. Little pink lips he'd glossed many times when he sat them and big lashes glaring up at him would seem immense but that wouldn't be the issue. Minor kiddie makeup tricks he was used to as they always looked adorable, but he needed a second, not being used to the faces framed in their new haircuts. The long hair he'd braided and bow bound so many times had been sheered dramatically into shoulder length bobs and across their brows now sat bangs. He walked over as if to hug them half in shock taking each of their hands as he walked past and then turned barely able to catch his breath seeing all their reflections around the corner. "I just can't! You girls look so pretty together," said Lauren walking behind them wiping a tear as she touched Lee's shoulder. "And I told you girls it would be fine once you saw how Keleigh turned out." "I still hate it," said Emma making a face and then leaning into Lee. "But I kind of like looking like Keleigh." "I figured you would and see how she's almost as blonde as you two now," said Lauren moving Erin next to Emma. "See, this is exactly how I dreamed you girls would look in size order when you come in. Picture yourself in almost the same dresses and how adorable will this be?" "We are in the same dresses already," said Erin studying them and making a mean face. "Except Keleigh's, but it's the same color." "That I like," said Emma pointing to their reflection then stroking her hair. "My hair this short, I still hate it." "It grows back and it's not that short," said Lauren lifting the ends of Lee's hair. "It's my wedding and my way and it's still touching your shoulders. Tomorrow if you want, we can still go shorter." "Let go of my hair Lauren, and you should have asked me," sighed Lee almost ready to cry reaching down, playing with Erin's hair. "Girls it'll be fine, and I still have enough to braid and do stuff but give me a second! Go see Holly please." "You serious you little bitch," said Lauren getting pissed. "Me?" said Lee pointing to himself trying to keep it together. "You cut my hair! My hair!" "Yeaaaaahhhhh," sighed Lauren fuming. "No shit you little diva! After we asked more than once and all we got were grunts, nods and that stupid grin!" "Shit!" sighed Lee flipping around his hair staring at himself. "You know maybe you did. I was kind of out of it today." "Listen I'm getting fucking married tomorrow and I'm not here to make sure space cadets pay attention if you're zoned out thinking about whatever," scolded Lauren animated. "Don't have the time, patience or strength. I'm stressed enough." "I know," nodded Lee stroking his hair. "And I feel bad about that." "You should, so don't stress me anymore and why the hell are you so nice. So, please just help with the kids like I asked," said Lauren still annoyed but calming down then stroking his hair herself. "It's a fucking lob so big fucking deal and I'm thinking going even blonder is in your future." "Very funny? I was blonde as a kid," smiled Lee turning looking at the back. "My mom's going freak when she sees me though." "Oh, please, it' such a cute cut you can still do so much with, and you wore extensions all the time anyway, so no biggie just wear an extra weft or two when you want to go long," smiled Lauren hugging him then holding both his hands looking into his eyes. "Now, I need you to hold the kids together and you knew I wanted you to look perfect between the flower girls and bridesmaids so guess what? You do." "Ok. You're right," smiled Lee giving up any argument he knew he couldn't win anyway. "I'm going to just have fun with it." "That's my girl," said Lauren hugging him again then patting his shoulders looking at him. "And just so you know I told my fianc?es cousin you were like ten"? "Seriously," groaned Lee as she let go. "You're kidding, without the bangs and flats you'd intimidate the dweeb and now at least he's taller than you and trust me I might be able to push nine and a half," said Lauren giggling. "I mean come on, how else am I going to piss off Gary when zit faced goober is all over you?" "Ok it's hard not to like the thought of him being annoyed at that but again," smiled Lee, "not funny." "Who said I was joking and be careful not to catch you're lip because a girl as pretty as you I guess has never kissed a kid with an overbite and braces," teased Lauren walking away. "Now how hot does that sound?" "Oh, my gawwd," grinned Lee shaking his head. "Where's Rita when I need her?" "Careful what you wish for princess and keep your voice down she's right over there," teased Holly coming over. "Come on let's go get the rug rats and you girls can ride with me." Like the big sister instead of just the babysitter he went over and took his favorite little flower girls as they rode with Holly to the rehearsal. In the back seat he went between them as she drove alone like a cabbie in the front and then as they got to the church the drama would be in full effect. Orders, places and emotional tirades over tiny mistakes would lead to repeated routines until Queen Lauren would allow for a water break. The rehearsal dinner that followed though would be uneventful as alcohol for the bridal party and tranquilizers for the future in-laws would temper the night. With the kids getting tired Lee was actually happy to be included in the non-adult group finally relieved of their wedding party duties. He texted his mom he was hitching a ride home with Emma's mom and saving her a trip out as they let the younger kids out a bit earlier. Never would he be happier to get away from the dweeby twelve year old boy who drooled at him all night and it felt wonderful to no longer have to endure any more verbal abuse from Gary's endless teasing. "Mom," yelled Lee after coming in the front door looking around. "I'm home." "Ok," yelled his mother from upstairs. "I'm upstairs in the bathroom sweetie." "Oh," said Lee going up. "You ok mom?" "Fine sweetie. Just brushing my teeth," said his mother through the door turning off the water. "Just happy to put on my pjs early and not have to come out to get you. I already texted Emma's mom thank you and what a nice surprise for a Baxter event to end early and to not go on all night." "Oh, it's still going but luckily I'm not old enough to hang around while they get plastered," joked Lee from the hallway. "I'm going to change and call it a night." "Don't you dare," said his mother through the door. "I'll be out in a second. I asked my friend to text me a picture and she said she would but, when I got the picture she sent, and I saw it for myself, it was like a tease, so you know I'm dying to see how you must look tonight." "You saw me in it three times at fittings mom," groaned Lee. "You were there every time." "Yes, but not with highlights," said his mother sounding excited. "I got the picture from Holly with the two of you with your heads covered in foils which was like another tease, and I've been anxious to see how that turned out all night." "I bet," sighed Lee exhaling. "They'll still be there in the morning. I'm tired." "Oh please! Tired from what?" giggled his mother. "Getting pampered all day. After the schedule I've had you on it must have felt like a vacation day." "Tired of getting teased," said Lee sounding depressed. "By the girls or your boyfriend? Did he not like his honey being partnered with another cute boy or worse not giving him the attention he normally..." joked his mother as the door clicked open pausing mid- sentence. "Oh, my gawddd Keleigh!" "Yeah, I got that a lot today," said Lee staring at her leaning against the hallway wall. "And can I say all of the above?" "Wow sweetheart," said his mother walking over to him sliding her fingers inside his bangs. "I was prepared for the highlights but not this." "Me either," said Lee embarrassed. "You think it looks bad?" "No not at all. It's very cute on you. It's just I had no idea you wanted bangs or even a cut like this," said his mother lifting the ends of his hair. "I guess you really were doing a lot of thinking then. So, you want to tell me about it?" "About my hair? I wish I could," shrugged Lee ashamed. "One second I'm sitting there covered in Reynolds wrap trying to tune out the world and then next I'm standing next to Emma and Erin looking like their big sister and we've all got the same haircut." "You're kidding," said his mother needing a second. "I knew the theme is for you girls to have kind of older-younger coordinated dresses, but Erin's hair was really long. Their mothers were ok with that?" "I'm not exactly sure," explained Lee. "The girls of course were not thrilled about their hair being trimmed but did like that it was like mine. I tried to tune out most of what was going on there as it was like a mad house with Lauren freaking out about every little thing, but I tuned out too much obviously." "She's a sweet girl Lauren but a psycho bride from day one." Smiled his mother spinning her finger. "Around please my ballerina and let me see the whole thing here." "I do look like a ballerina, don't I?" smiled Lee having to laugh as she was checking the back of his hair as he turned. "Well even if you don't now, you will tomorrow with this haircut in that big dress," joked his mother. "What do I do then mom?" questioned Lee getting upset. "I could cry!" "Nothing? And don't you dare! You look adorable," said his mother reassuring him. "Am I thrilled she cut your hair when I gave permission for a few highlights and then instead home comes Hannah Montana with her hair to her shoulders? Not really, but I can't deny it's really cute on you and I'm thinking once I see all three of you like this walking down the aisle it is going to be something to see." "Yeah, I saw it at rehearsal and the women were flipping about it," said Lee tossing up his hands. "Once we were practicing walking and I could see how excited the girls were, it was fine. But is it fine? Really?" "Well, no matter what, it has to be now, and they look up to you almost like you're their big sister anyway," explained his mother. "So, following you down the aisle like Mini-Keleighs, I'm sure they quickly forgot they got their hair chopped and it was probably pretty exciting for them." "None of us were too happy about it, but pretty much. I know I have to be a role model when I'm with them and all, so what I kept telling myself in order not to scream was, you did say I needed a trim," said Lee trying not to freak. "It's only like six inches Lauren said and you always say my hair grows fast." "That I did and expected a trim so not a surprise at all for anyone in a wedding, plus it's normal when you get highlights," said his mother stroking his hair. "But six? Try at least nine or ten, or... don't stress it honey. You really are selfless when it comes to those kids and it's still really cute on you." "It's at least ten, isn't it? I was trying to convince myself it wasn't, but I was thinking that too," sighed Lee lifting the end of his lob. "Don't get upset, I said it was really cute on you and I told you your hair would look gorgeous sun kissed and it really, really, does," reassured his mother pulling his hand away. "Remember how you hated when Taylor Swift cut off her curls and then you really loved it?" "Yeah, and funny you say that," said Lee. "Gary teased me that if I made my lips red, I'd look like her with my hair like this." "And you know why boys tease girls about things like that?" smiled his mother. "Not the only thing I got teased about mom," said Lee holding out his skirt. "Still doesn't change the fact that they tease you because they like you," educated his mother. "I get it mom, and I was thinking about that it's not just little girls that have bangs and even a lob, so I'm dealing with it like I have everything else this year," explained Lee. "Plus, I know regular girls stress on this stuff but I'm not going to mom. I mix in my extensions all the time anyway so I know I can when I want it longer. I have bigger things on my mind as you know." "That's very mature for such a cute little princess," joked his mother giving him a playful nudge and then walking back into the bathroom getting the makeup wipes. "How about I go help you get ready for bed and we can talk about some of that?" "The questions and talk I expected," said Lee surprised. "But you haven't volunteered to help me get ready for bed all summer?" "Yeah, I know," said his mother taking a wipe to his face. "But you don't need the practice any more the summer's almost over, right?" "Still haven't decided everything mom," objected Lee as she wiped across his eyes. "Can't we just talk after the wedding tomorrow?" "We will," said his mother not letting him move, wiping under his eyes. "But I still want to know what you thought about with all that down time today, and you think one more day is going to truly change the way you feel?" "Who knows? But you said you knew what I should do so are you going to help me?" said Lee shrugging his shoulders just letting her do whatever she wanted. "I'm still waiting for your help you know. Remember you promised?" "I Promised we'd talk and now we are," said his mother inspecting his face and then putting her hands on her hips looking into his eyes. "So, how about we start with you telling me exactly how many times you've tried on the Cresent Academy uniform?" "How do you know I tried it on at all?" grinned Lee getting shy. "Really?" said his mother making a face. "Because I'm your mother and watched you re-braid your hair three times on one side just before Gary was coming over to play video games and then stress if the scrunchies should match the top or the letters in the top." "Six times," said Lee giving her a nasty look. "Maybe more. I'm not 100 percent sure." "I'm not saying what I think you should do but does it still fit?" smiled his mother rubbing a little cream under his eyes. "Because I'm sure at least one or two of those times was when you first got it and in some outfits, you've dropped a dress size since then." "I meant at least six times this week and it's a little loose, but I could easily wear it," said Lee looking away. "You happy now?" "None of this is about me being happy honey, but do I know my child or what?" giggled his mother turning his shoulder unzipping his dress. "That's kind of what I figured and let's get your pajamas on." "And I guess I figured if you're saying that then what are we even talking about mom?" said Lee turning around looking her dead in the face. "You always say you know me better than anyone so could you actually just say that's what I should be doing then since you're making it pretty obvious?" "Getting snippy with me is not going to make me not give a shit so save it!" said his mother sternly yet calmly as they walked into his bedroom. "All I'm saying is how could you not want to try it on? Should I not ask either way, so we'll be prepared?" "I'm sorry," said Lee letting out a huff sliding the dress off his shoulders. "Of course, you should." "Good, then out with it Keleigh," said his mother taking out clean underwear from a drawer and then turning staring him dead in the face. "Of course, you know I'm going," said Lee tossing up his hands as she slapped clean panties into his hands. "It's everything I've dreamed about but should Lee or Keleigh be going?" "Doesn't matter," said his mother with her eyes full of tears hugging him. "I'm so happy for you baby!" "Please don't make me cry mom," said Lee embracing the hug. "And I'm in my underwear." "Who cares and why not," said his mother giving another squeeze then pulling back looking at him. "It's just us and it's nothing to be ashamed of. It's a happy cry and no one deserves this more than you!" They both broke down a little in each other's arms and then once they compose themselves were all smiles. It would be a relief for both of them that he'd begin a journey towards his dream of acting but there were of course many more questions still to be answered. "Oh, thank gawwd I took my makeup off just before you came home," joked Allison wiping under her eyes then teasing. "But could you change your underwear and get dressed please." "Me too now," grinned Lee wiping his eyes as well sucking in some mucus as she turned around. "Guess you also knew I'd still be some little cry baby girl even without the big dress." "Not really," smiled his mother shaking her head staring at the wall as she waited while he changed his panties. "But so, so, glad you were." "Me too," nodded Lee trying not to cry again pulling them up. "And you can turn around now mom." "Ok, and you know what else I'm glad about?" smiled Allison squishing her cheeks as she pulled a long nightgown from his dresser. "I was looking forward to seeing you a little blonder in highlights which I knew I'd love on you but I'm glad I got to see you in bangs. I kind of love them even more on you!" "Yeah, I got that a lot tonight too," laughed Lee counting on his fingers. "The kids, Holly, your bestie and even Gary. Who knew?" "Apparently Lauren knew," joked his mother rolling the nightgown up in her hands. "Hands up sweetie." "Yeah," smirked Lee as she dropped it over his head. "I guess she did." "Definitely! When you're pretty, you take a risk sometimes and usually stylists also know so I'm sure they advised her," said his mother buttoning up the back. "But I have to know honey. How did you not notice when they were doing them?" "Hhhmm? Good question," said Lee straightening his nightgown. "I'm honestly not really sure mom. You know I was zoned out a lot thinking, and I kind of remember all the snipping and stuff but nothing seemed off." "Except off it came! So, not the scissors across the bridge of your nose with all your hair in your face?" questioned his mother. "Cause, I don't think there's another way they can make them." "Didn't register mom," said Lee shrugging his shoulders. "Now, not really knowing how much they were trimming in the back I can totally buy and even one quick snip maybe with your eyes closed I can understand since you got quite the trim," paused his mother. "But even after the mass and length is gone doing bangs like this takes a lot of passes to get them neat and straight. And none of that registered?" "Maybe now that you ask me about it," shrugged Lee. "For whatever reason, today nothing seemed unusual. I always remember being relaxed when you used to trim my hair before I grew it out, so maybe that just helped relax me." "Oh," said his mother probing. "That's been quite a long time now though." "Has it?" shrugged Lee. "I mean I knew the plan was for me to step in a role portraying a bit younger girl today but even when I saw myself almost like a little girl nothing seemed that abnormal." "Really?" questioned Allison. "You mean maybe because you wish you could have been one, or was it because you were thinking Kaleigh's time could be coming to an end?" "Mom isn't one big thing like school being decided enough for tonight because you know no matter how I answer that both of us will be in tears again?" said Lee trying not to get emotional. "Could we please just save that for tomorrow night?" "Yeah! My bad," said his mother trying to hold it together too. "I'd rather laugh a little and no matter what, Keleigh will be back for Holly and few things for the kids right?" "She'll always be here for those damn Baxter's and the most special person in my life," nudged Lee winking at his mother. "Plus, if you want a laugh, I'm sure you'll get one because I doubt Rita will forget to send you the picture of Erin and Emma putting each other's hair in the messiest pigtails and then mine. Gary teased me half the night so tomorrow when you hear him calling me Michelle, you'll get the joke." "Michelle?" said his mother as her eyes got wide. "Yeah? He thinks he's funny," said Lee reaching up grabbing his hair on both sides holding it in little pigtails. "Like Michelle from full house." "Oh gawdd!" gulped his mother. "Michelle from full house?" "Yeah, we used to always watch that as kids," explained Lee. "Remember?" "Me remember?" smiled his mother getting up taking a brush and some bands from his dresser. "When you were little? Of course. Those were some of the best years and you being adorable got me through some really hard years. Sit tall honey." "And you're trying to reminisce while you've got the chance to see if he was right, aren't you?" laughed Lee as she began brushing his hair into her hand on the left. "You're making fun of me too now?" "Not at all! You had your hair in some type of casual pigtails all the time this summer and I love you in them," said his mother winding in a band. "Low messy ones, Dutch braids and tons of stuff? Watching tv, cleaning in them and even sleeping in them all the time, right?" "Well yeah? It's just what girls do," laughed Lee as she began brushing on the other side now. "And the point you're making besides loving me in them or the jokes with my hair this short is what then?" "No real point. I agree it's just what girls do," said Allison winding in the band on the right side now. "I did when I was young. We all do. So, did Gary say anything else about his pretty little Michelle?" "More than he usually does since he loves teasing me every chance he gets," said Lee looking out of the corner of his eye trying to figure out why his mother was pulling a ribbon from his vanity drawer. "Wasn't that enough? And I tune him out half the time, but it looks like you might be enjoying this even more than he did!" "Maybe I shouldn't be and not really. But wow!" said his mother tying off a bow and then getting choked up. "The cute bangs? The dirty blonde color? The length? So, anything honey? Anything at all?" "Anything else? No just the teasing mom," giggled Lee looking at her curiously with the way she was sizing him up. "Should I be worried about something else or are you getting sentimental here? No matter what, I'll always be your little girl." "Yeah, that you will, and I'll remind you I said I didn't want to bring stuff back into your memory unless you remembered things on your own or until I thought you should know so it would have no influence on things," said his mother turning his face tying in the other ribbon now. "But since he did then I'm thinking I better." "Better what?" gulped Lee swinging around his little pigtails as she stepped back. "What are you talking about mom?" "Well maybe that Gary remembers even possibly subconsciously some of the things I was hinting about the first time I put your hair in half pigtails that we spun into top knots, but you didn't," explained his mother trying to stop her hands from shaking. "If you recall he was coming over after the shower wanting that first date and brought you flowers and...?" "Of course, I remember that and why are your hands shaking mom?" said Lee interrupting getting upset. "I was freaking that it could be our first date and you're scaring me mom." "And I was trying to tell you without telling you that it wasn't," said his mother wiping a tear. "Way before you were his Keleigh you were still his favorite little actress. His first crush and he was yours." "Oh gawwwddd," gulped Lee holding his chest. "I don't understand?" "You were too little to understand," admitted Allison taking a breath and wiping her other eye. "When you were little kids there was a year or two where Rita's life was insanely busy and I was her sitter. I never minded because even though he was almost two years older you two always played so nice and she was my rock taking care of us when we were almost broke. You two would pretend, play dress up and then one day while we were waiting for Rita to drop him off there you were already in let's say, costume waiting for him." "You're not saying?" said Lee stunned. "That you had a girls costume? No, you didn't," said his mother trying to keep it together then squeezing his hand. "But yes, you found a dress. Really it wasn't exactly yours or supposed to be yours as my sister gave me a few boxes of her kid's clothes when I was pregnant and long before you were born knowing I couldn't afford things back then. The boxes were in the back of your closet and of course you only wore your male cousin's stuff until that one day when of course you didn't." "So, then you let me wear it?" gulped Lee. "How old was I?" "Three, maybe three and a half and I took it off you and tried not to make a big deal," explained his mother biting her lip then breathing again. "Except then I answered the door and when I brought Gary back to play with you... well there you were back in the dress except this time trying to put pigtails in your hair." "Like I was trying to be Michelle from full house?" said Lee as his eyes popped wide open. "Pretty much," answered Allison. "You both loved her." "But I wanted to be her?" questioned Lee feeling like the room was spinning. "Calm down honey," said Allison lifting his chin looking into his eyes. "Sometimes." "Sometimes, like more than once?" freaked Lee. "Well sometimes became often," nodded Allison touching his face. "And then became always when Gary would be over." "And you just let me be her?" said Lee ready to puke. "Like it was normal?" "Well, the first time I just gave him some cookies to distract him from what he saw and took you to change but you threw a tantrum, so I backed down trying not to make a big deal," explained his mother stroking his bangs. "When he left, you were willing to change back for bed without issue but then the next day we were at the supermarket when I realized things were more serious than I thought. You used to love to load and empty the cart and then as we got to the cashier to pay, I look up seeing her scanning a package of bows and another of barrettes that obviously were not on my shopping list." "Like I picked them off the wall and tried to sneak them by you?" questioned Lee shocked. "Oh, you didn't try," laughed his mother. "You did sneak them past me and had them hidden under the cereal. When I was about to tell the girl they weren't mine and not to ring them up I looked at you and the look on your face told me I couldn't. Really more like I shouldn't." "So, you bought me bows and barrettes?" said Lee flabbergasted. "Yup. Again, trying not to make it a big deal," nodded his mother. "You were the best kid even little and never asked for anything, so when you did, I knew you really wanted it. Again, you were so little at the time, so I didn't think much of it, but I did read about these things with other kids, and they say you just grow out of it." "But is this your way of telling me I didn't?" questioned Lee feeling his heart pounding. "No eventually you did," explained his mother. "It took a few years but by first grade it was over. Or at least I thought it was." "Isn't that like two or three years later?" gulped Lee doing the math in his head. "Pretty much. You weren't in dresses all the time but there were times where that's all you wanted to wear. I had to buy you shoes, tights, ankle socks, panties. You were very picky. Very particular," explained Allison before teasing. "Thank goodness you grew out of that and let me mostly pick your outfits this time or I would have killed you this summer." "Not funny," smiled Lee as she tried to lighten up the situation. "I'm still a little particular." "Which is a good thing honey and no denying you've always had a bit of diva in you," smiled his mother. "Yeah, that I do know about myself," slumped Lee. "And now here we are coming full circle my love," said his mother finger brushing his bangs staring at him so lovingly. "You especially always fought me about cutting your hair except for your bangs which you loved having trimmed and perfect. I let you grow your hair a little to your shoulders and longer those few summers but if it was up to you even back then it would have been down to your butt." "Oh, my gawwd mom," gulped Lee feeling goose bumps. "Maybe I do faintly remember some of that. I always remember you trimming above my eyes." "Had to or you'd never be able to see. Your hair grew like weeds and still does." smiled Allison stroking his bangs again then cupping his face. "Understand now why I was asking how none of that registered when they did it?" "Yeah," sighed Lee feeling sick and shaking his head feeling his pigtails swing. "You always wanted them perfect if Gary was coming over," explained his mother. "That and we used to have to rotate between full pigtails and half pigtails because you had to have some type of pigtails for Gary even though you liked your hair hanging down on your shoulders sometimes. You two would sit so close and he loved to play with your hair". "Yeah, that hasn't changed," sighed Lee pulling down one of his own pigtails looking at it out of the corner of his eyes. "He still does." "Neither has the two of you being fighters one second and love birds the next. You used to love baiting him whacking your pigtails off his face and then cry bloody murder when he'd be yanking them," explained Allison before enjoying a giggle and walking over plugging in the curling iron. "You'd of course always had to have bows and barrettes in your hair every time and sometimes make me braid it, but you'd especially love me to curl it." "And you're going to again to show me?" said Lee surprised. "Like now?" "Why not, since we're turning back time for a day or two?" smiled his mother patting the chair near his vanity for him to walk over. "Ok," said Lee getting up and hugging her before sitting down. "But for you mom." "No, for both of us," said his mother sectioning the first pigtail between her fingers. "You loved being the flirt always making sure he'd notice how pretty it looked but practically scratch out his eyes when he'd yank out a bow." "He still tries to do that now too," sighed Lee as she sprayed the first section. "Oh, my gawwd mom I... I...." "Need to stay calm since this is hot and you never liked your curls destroyed," laughed his mother rolling up the first section. "Yeah, I know and while I'm spilling the beans on a lot today part of the reason I made you get a perm before that first day was so no matter what your hair would hold any style. Girl or no girl you panic when your hair gets wrecked." "Not today I didn't," said Lee as down came the first curl. "Until now." "True but now I think we know why," answered his mother spraying and then rolling the next one. "You think because it felt normal," said Lee thinking as the second curl came down. "Like it did when I was little?" "I'm no psychologist honey but you knew you'd be in a dress that was similar to one like when you were young with your hair lighter," said his mother spraying and rolling the third curl. "So maybe. Maybe it triggered things for you and for Gary." "Or maybe it didn't," gulped Lee as down came the third curl. "Could he have never forgotten? Like always known?" "Possibly, he was a little older than you obviously and turn your head," said his mother moving his face as she jumped to the other pigtail now separating. "But I'm thinking he didn't or would have known that the night he came over." "Which night?" asked Lee as she coated the first section rolling it up. "He's been here a million times." "The night after the shower," said his mother dropping down the curl. "The night you kissed him, but you didn't. Remember?" "Yeah, that I try to forget," grimaced Lee as she sprayed and rolled up the next. "Oh, please curly girl," teased his mother unrolling the second curl. "Or how about even that night when you two went to the movies that was supposedly maybe your first date, except neither of those would really be your first date since it happened back when you were in pigtails." "Oh gawwdd," huffed Lee as she sprayed it and rolled it up. "I was afraid that's where we were headed and figured you'd be getting to that soon." "Did you not want to know?" questioned his mother as down dropped the third curl. "Of course I don't," groaned Lee shaking his pigtails watching three thick coils bounce on each side in his vanity mirror. "Really?" said his mother holding up a big wide toothed brush. "So, do I finish or not?" "Brush out my curls but not ruin them," nodded Lee smirking tilting his head so she could brush them. "Please. And how can I not know now." "We both know you couldn't. Now if you think about it, in a way it was kind of similar since I'm not sure whether you knew if it was a date or not that first time back then. It was beautiful weather, so I wanted to get you two away from the tv and out of the house. You were both so young and probably didn't even know what a date was, but I remember just like this summer, even back then when you knew we were all going out you were just as nervous," explained his mother softly stroking through each curl just as she would when he was little telling the whole story. "The plan was for him to come over and at first I thought maybe you were too nervous to go out of the house in pigtails since we were going to the park but quickly, I learned that wouldn't be the case as somebody wouldn't wear jeans and sneakers but instead would only wear this mostly white floral dress. I had to curl your pigtails over and over until you were happy each ringlet matched the other side and you had on white bows so big if the wind caught them the right way you would have flown like Dumbo." "Oh, come on mom," said Lee rolling his eyes moving his head. "Wasn't I three?" "And just like now you loved your hair curled and hated to get dirty," teased his mother moving his head so she could brush it perfectly. "Doubting that?" "Just go on," said Lee getting annoyed. "That still doesn't sound like a date." "No, it was supposed to be a day in the park, but you wouldn't sit on the swing and that's when it happened," explained Allison stepping back checking each side. "He took off his little denim jacket and sat it on the swing so you wouldn't get dirty." "Really?" sighed Lee feeling comforted. "Like he was a gentleman at like maybe five?" "That he was, and just as handsome. Put your chin up honey," said his mother lifting his face brushing through his bangs. "You asked him why he did that, and he said because it's what boys are supposed to do for their girlfriends on a date and asked if you were his." "Huughhhh," gulped Lee shaking. "And what did I say?" "What do you think sweetheart?" said his mother sliding the curling iron under his bangs rolling them under. "And be still it's been a long time since I've done this part so could you please stop with the fidgeting?" "Just tell me mom," shook Lee feeling the heat above his forehead but unable to stop fidgeting. "Like I need to Keleigh?" smiled his mother sliding out the iron as his bangs softly bounced off his forehead. "Oh, gawwd, and you're saying I said yes," said Lee, his eyes bugging when he opened them as she brushed through his bangs. "You didn't say anything," smiled Allison stepping back with the brush in her hand looking at him. "Well, until after you kissed him and then you said yes." "I kissed him and said yes?" said Lee holding his chest. "Yeah, you had the most adorable squeaky voice and were a little more loose with the lips back then," joked his mother covering his eyes and misting his bangs with a touch of hairspray. "MOOOOM!" squealed Lee getting upset pushing away her hand. "Eeewww! I'm going to be sick!" "Oh, come on! It was nothing but precious butterfly kisses back then between you two and once that first smooch was over you just jumped on the swing, and he pushed you," said his mother getting choked up. "I could cry just thinking about it." "Please tell me you made all that up mom," said Lee still stunned. "Please!" "Your little dresses are in clear plastic still hanging up way in the back of my closet," said Allison shaking her head. "I'm sure with all the times you snuck in there and helped yourself that I doubt you missed noticing them." "Still salty about that when you told me it was fine?" sighed Lee turning and touching his bangs in the vanity mirror. "This is all crazy and I thought those were yours! From when you were a kid." "Don't get oversensitive. I'm not but I do have a few that were mine but not the majority of which you wore and those are even more sentimental to me," lectured Allison softly playing with one of his pigtails looking at him so lovingly. "I couldn't toss them wondering if I'd ever tell you or maybe just pass them down to my granddaughter." "Wait? So, all those polaroids in that little red box," thought Lee swinging around his face away from the reflection looking her in the eyes. "So those aren't you?" "Is anything sacred with you?" snickered his mother before lightly scolding him. "That's in my lingerie drawer under some of my most private stuff." "Which I didn't wear any of," said Lee holding up his hands like he never touched any of it. "But you're saying those aren't you? They're me?" "The yellowy faded ones are me," smirked his mother nodding then looking away. "The rest, which is the majority of them are you. I always wanted to put them in a scrapbook but for obvious reasons couldn't. You know how many people stopped me telling me you should be a model or on tv?" "Oh no!" gulped Lee. "Another bombshell?" "No baby," laughed his mother touching his face. "Thanks to Rita that path we didn't have to go down, but we could have. You were always the little actor so I'm pretty sure you would have loved it, but I was always still convinced it was a phase, so I kept your performances to the private dance shows you did for me and the reenactments of full house in our living room." "I don't remember being Michelle but still remember plenty of episodes," thought Lee squeezing his forehead searching. "I remember learning a lot from that show." "Well, all I know is you two learned what a date was from watching Full House and the rest is history," explained his mother touching his bangs again. "And that's why when you were freaking early this summer I wasn't, since no matter what, I knew it wasn't your first date. Hell, it wasn't even your second or third or even thirtieth but really just the first in like almost a decade." "I'm going to be sick," sighed Lee dropping his face looking down feeling his pigtails slide across his cheeks speechless. "No, you're not. You turned out to be the most wonderful child and now teenager, regardless of which way your life goes in the future," said his mother lifting his chin. "Half of me is sorry I had to drop this on you but the other half of me is relieved I did since I always thought you should know. Whether the timing is right that I did I'm still not so sure of, but you ended the debate that's been in my mind for years with your own little Michelle bombshell." "No Gary did," said Lee getting angry. "Or maybe even Lauren with this stupid haircut. I think I would have been better off not knowing." "Honey it was only a matter of time so there's no one to blame," said Allison trying to calm him. "Clothes do not define anyone but whether I should or shouldn't have told you is a moot point now since I did. Better it comes from me, and you know the truth in case he brought it up when you two were together tomorrow and then what would you have done?" "Like I still know what to do?" sighed Lee frustrated. "How am I even going to be able to sleep tonight now?" "Like my baby girl in pigtails with her mother having a sleep over in her bed like we used to have," grinned Allison grabbing his hand. "So how about we start there?" "Really?" said Lee feeling a rush of emotion. "Why not?" said his mother squeezing his hand. "I'll always take care of you honey." "I know, and I'd like that," nodded Lee rubbing fingers with her. "You comforting me at night when I was upset I do remember." "Good because I'd love that, and you have nothing to be upset about," said his mother kissing his forehead. "You're going to be a famous actor who can play any role when you graduate that school and then look back realizing things happened for a reason." "You're so smart mom and hopefully you're right," said Lee trying not to cry taking stuffed animals off the bed. "But one last thing. Promise me we can look at those pictures together tomorrow." "I'd like that and sure," said his mother helping remove the throw pillows and a few stuffies. "But after the wedding and what thing." "Ok, and I know you said it was a phase that I grew out of," thought Lee with his arms filled with teddy bears and a big unicorn. "But were you sad when I did?" "Me sad? Gary maybe," laughed his mother turning down the bed. "No, I loved you no matter what so why would I be sad?" "Because you seemed to really enjoy having a daughter and these last few months, I learned you're such an amazing girl's mom," smiled Lee sitting on the edge of the bed now. "Translation," smiled Allison stroking his bangs. "I sucked as a boy's mom?" "Oh stop," laughed Lee pushing away her hand and squeezing it as he slid onto the bed. "I just meant I doubt it was as much fun for you and as a boy I was kind of not your prototypical big tough guy as we both know so how could you not be?" "Because just like you I'm adaptable? Where do you think you got that quality and don't kid yourself honey it takes a hell of a lot more toughness to be an even better young lady than it did to be a boy," said his mother sliding into bed next to him and pulling the covers over them. "Now go to sleep and don't ever doubt the strength of that big heart you have that I couldn't be more proud of. That's toughness and as long as you have that, I'll never be sad." "Ok," nodded Lee snuggling against her. "And this feels so nice." "I know," smiled his mother feeling so warm. "Good night baby." "Night mom," said Lee comforted.