One Boy's Journey Chapter 30

Written by Brianna Demonet

Dan took us to Costco. He knew exactly what to get. Two huge Cowboy Ribeye steaks for him and John. He selected a couple of nice-sized tenderloins for Mom and me.

He bought 2 six-packs of chicken breasts and asked if I would make fajitas tomorrow night. I said sure! On one condition, I could invite Lexi, Emma, and their moms over for dinner tomorrow night. He said sure! Dan grabbed a bag of shrimp and a big bottle of cocktail sauce, some onions, and Portabella mushrooms.

Mom and I grabbed lettuce and cheese and cherry tomatoes. We got French and blue cheese dressings. I grabbed some frozen breadsticks and a bag of frozen red, yellow, and orange pepper blends. I also grabbed Salas, sour cream, and tortillas.

Aunt V and I haven't shopped for groceries, so I grabbed a cart and made my rounds. Aunt V gave me her credit card for an emergency. I took it up on myself that buying groceries wasn't abusing her trust. I called Aunt V to see if she would be home for dinner.

I told her about my using her card for groceries. She said it was a great idea, and thanked me. Aunt V said she would be home tomorrow afternoon. I called John and invited him to dinner. He said he would love to! Mom asked to talk to Yon.

I let them chat as I started getting ready. I wanted to be ready in case we went out afterward. I did my routine early. Then I took a slightly longer than normal shower. My breasts were still itchy and sore. Not too bad but the body wash and skin conditioner helped them feel better.

I found myself fondling my nipples, and it felt so erotic. I was getting very warm inside. I decided to try my new toy the ladies bought me for my dilation. It hurt a little as I inserted it. But I kept at it gently working it in a little deeper as I went on. It felt a lot different than my regular dilators did. I loved it.

I must have lost track of time. I heard my door open. It was Mom.

Ohh!! My Ree! She said softly.

Mom!!!! Close the door, please! She closed it and locked it.

Rianna what are you doing?

Dilating mother! Don't you knock?

Then lock the door sweetheart, there's a man in the house!

Fair enough, mom.

That looks like a little more than dilation Rianna!

By her tone and my full first name, I knew she was a bit upset and worried.

Care to explain, young lady?

You know I have to dilate twice a day right?

Yes, but that looked a lot more like self-indulgence.

Maybe I was, but I was enjoying it. I cannot afford to have myself close up. If I don't keep myself open and flexible while I am young it will only get smaller as I get older.

I was constantly rubbing my itchy nipples. As we talked.

Is there something wrong with your nipples?

No, but they itch terribly.

They have darkened up like mine. Mine itched all the time, too, when I was younger. Do you have any skin moisturizer? Mom asked.

On the counter next to my cold cream. Mom brought out the cold cream.

Let's try this, Mom said. I can do it. Now let me show you how honey, just relax for a moment.

Mom put a small amount on her fingertips and made very soft circles, starting on my nipples and working outward slowly. Mom's touch was incredible. It felt great, better than great. I closed my eyes and relaxed. I began to enjoy this.

I let out a very soft low moan. I couldn't help it. You like this, don't you?

Yesss!

My mother did this with me when I was your age. It was the only thing that helped me from going crazy from itching.

I was getting very wet from her attention. I began to reach for my flower. I touched it, I was soaking wet. I just rested my hand covering myself.

Mom, Mom, I, I, maa!!! Ohhh!!!

Oh, sweetie. I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to; I mean, I was only trying to... Ohh!!! Ree, I'm so embarrassed! She teared up a bit.

Mom, it's okay... I know you weren't trying to be weird or anything! Ohh!!! Sweetheart I wasn't and would never!!!!

I know, Mom! I do! I know! My body sometimes has a mind of its own. I have been dealing with lots of emotions, sensations, and, lately, a lot of desires. Some desires I can't help but fantasize about. I can't help it.

Sweetheart, I never meant to...

Mom, it's okay... You were only trying to help me deal with being a young woman.

Sweetheart I wish I was here more for you!

Mom! Don't do that! Feeling guilty will not help either of us! The things we are doing, we have to do because of the things life dealt us. You're doing your best for our situation and so am I.

This situation isn't something we chose. It's how we deal with it and get through it that's important. My therapist said to recognize the problem and deal with the problem, don't live with the problem. Smart people learn from their challenges and move on. That's how we recover.

You have learned a lot since you moved out here. Mom said.

I like to think so. I'm not afraid of sharing my thoughts and feelings like I used to be. Back home I had no friends, isolated in my world of Xbox. Now, I have a life, school, a social life, a boyfriend, and a job. Above all, I have goals and dreams.

Very soon maybe even a new home we can call our own. That's not mentioning a new Dad! I love him, Mom. Dan's great, I'm so happy for you.

Ohhh!!! Ree!!! We hugged tightly for a couple of minutes. Neither one of us wanted to let go.

Oh, my goodness, your hair! Ree!

What am I going to do? I got it, Ree!

What? I asked.

Boxer Braids! Come on! I'll teach you! It won't take long. Besides the men can wait!

We giggled together. I felt so close to mom. 25 minutes later I am in Boxer Braids.

Ohh!! Honey, you are adorable! Mom kissed my cheek.

I curled my bangs and did my makeup. I went a little little heavy on my eyeliner and eye shadow. I was getting a little chilly outside. I wore my black denim miniskirt, white leggings, and my white cashmere sweater. I wore my gold hoops and a smaller hoop behind it. I wore my gold studs in the next two holes and my tiny diamonds in my fifth hole.

Mom said I love you, Ree!

I love you too, Mom!

What's with those hoops?

John bought them for me on our first date. They might be cheap but he bought them, and they are the first earrings I ever picked out for myself.

I wore my favorite black boots. Mom says don't you have any panties that aren't thongs. Do you even have pantyhose?

No, Aunt V said regular panties leave lines.

Well, she is correct about that. I think it's too much for a young girl like you, but you are very well-adjusted. Just be careful.

I'm a girl mom. You know I love your naval piercings.

You should get yours done while you're out here too!

No honey, I am too old, Mom. You're 34 years old; you're not old! You're still a very attractive young woman! Besides I bet Dad would love it!

You think so! Yes, I do.

Besides naval piercing is as common as earrings these days.

Mom and I just finished touching ourselves up. Mom was still in her sweater dress.

Johns Here! Dad exclaimed.

I'll get it! Exclaimed Mom.

Wait here honey, we don't want to break up the routine!

We giggled.

Hi John, my mom welcomed him.

Ree!! John is here.

Coming! I exclaimed.

I come downstairs. John is waiting at the foot of the stairs. I love his approving smile. Hi John!

Wow! I love your hair!

Thank you! I smile sweetly.

Mom and Dad smiled.

John kissed my cheek.

I love your braids!

Thank you! My mom did them.

They're beautiful.

Mom, can I show John my room?

Sure, honey, Your dad is just starting the meat on the grill.be back downstairs in 20 minutes.

Yes ma'am, I said.

I took John's hand and led him upstairs to my room. I closed the door softly. I pulled John close. He took the hint and kissed me deeply.

Mmmm, I needed that.

This is beautiful Ree!

Thank you, I tilted my head and smiled sweetly.

Who set up your computer system?

I did!

The whole thing?

Yep! I love technology, it used to be a bit of a hobby.

Do you play video games?

Not in a long time. I've been too busy. I have this really cute boyfriend I love and friends and school and ballet. They are more important than video games. I would rather spend time on them and school instead of games.

I see; he pulled me close; I'm glad I am at the top of the list.

Yes, you are! He kissed me deeply.

My left leg went in the air. I told him about the house and all the work it needed. John started getting interested. I showed him pictures of the house and the work it needed.

You know my Dad knows people that can help. My Uncle has a flooring store and they do custom installations all the time.

Really?

Really! He said with a smile.

We should get downstairs before they start to wonder!

Good idea babe! I said as I stole a kiss.

We walked downstairs holding hands, mom smiled as she was preparing side dishes and salad. Dad was outside manning the grill.

I'm going outside for a minute! John said.

Here, John, Mom said and handed him a bottle of water and a cold beer for Dan.

Thanks, Ms Stevens. He said in a charming voice, smiling.

Mom just smiled with approval.

I still think you're a bit young for him, but I can't help it. I like him, Rianna. You don't see manners like his in many boys his age.

Mom, can I tell you something?

Sure honey, what is it?

He and his Dad know all about me. He has known me all along and still asked me out.

How?

I'm not quite sure, but he does, and it doesn't matter to him. He's super smart, he probably heard a thing or two and put it together.

He talked to his mother about it before he asked me out the first time.

Are you sure?

Yon told me on New Years Eve. He just told me his uncle has a flooring store and installation service.

That sounds like a great idea said Mom. Now all we need to do is paint and have someone do the trim. My only real concern is the yard work, said Mom.

The community here has a company come in and does everyone's yards. It's part of the maintenance fee, water, Internet, and trash, too.

That's convenient, said Mom. I like this idea more and more.

Mom, I love it here! I love that house. I don't know why but I feel like it's our home already. I walked through the entire neighborhood and that house just stood out to me.

I understand, Ree I do! When I was a little girl, I used to dream of living in this big corner house. It was a big white two-story colonial with big white pillars in front and a blue front door. I would walk past it every day on the way home from school. I always dreamed about being a lawyer and buying my very own big house like that one day. Now it looks like that dream may come true.

Dan and John

Dan and I were talking outside by the grill. I asked Dan about the house they were thinking about. He told me about all the work it needed. I told him about my uncle and his flooring business. He seemed very interested in the idea. He asked if I or my family knew anyone who did interior finishing work. I told him I would ask.

We talked about Rianna. He was genuinely concerned about us dating and wanted to know my intentions. I understood his concerns about Ree. My Mom and Dad felt the same way about Ree at first. I told him that Ree and I shared similar goals for our future in college.

He asked me about school grades and sporting events. I told him about myself wanting to go to Stanford on an academic scholarship.

Do you understand my concern, John?

Yes, sir, I do!

I'm not sure you do! Don't get me wrong young man. I know you are a nice young man, from a very good family. You need to understand I am a protective person. I love these women.

I understand, sir; I also know all about Ohio and Rianna's incident. I know her, sir; I love her. She is very special, special to me.

John, I like you, I'm not sure you.....

Sir with respect! I love that you want to protect them. I only want to protect Ree, sir. I do know everything about Rianna Stevens, everything.

Did she tell you? No sir, I figured it out on my own. I don't care if she used to be a boy. To me, she's Rianna, a young woman, cheerleader, athlete, student, and ballet dancer. She's also a good martial artist. Sir, I know she's 14 and I am 16.

I have no interest in doing anything to ruin our futures, whether we remain together or not.

I'm sorry If I offended you, John. I was married for 25 years and raised two daughters. Protecting the women in my life is a habit.

I respect that, sir, I have a mother and two little sisters, and I feel the same way.

Thank you, John!

For what exactly?

Proving to me you're the stand-up young man I thought you were. Dan smiled at him. So tell me, John, how do you like your steak?

Medium sir.

Call me Dan, John.

Medium Dan, please.

Back inside...

I was helping Mom. I was sauteing Portabella mushrooms and onions with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Mom was making the salad. We chatted away about everything. We were both excited about fixing up that house. We both have so many ideas about it.

I glanced outside and saw John and Dan talking. I was worried at first, John had a serious look on his face for a while. He and Dad were smiling now. The good news was there was no yelling or even a slight outburst.

Ree, see how long they're going to be with the meat.

Okay, mom! Dad, how much longer?

Just a couple of minutes, sweetie.

Couple minutes, Mom.

Thank you.

I started setting the table. John walked in and started helping me.

Everything okay out there? I asked. It looked a little tense for a minute.

All good Ree, Dan was just being the good father, much like my Dad at our dinner. We're good.

I'm happy to hear that. I was worried for a minute. You should know he cares a great deal about you both.

I'm glad to hear you both can speak man to man, John. Said mom.

He's a good man Ms. Stevens. Call me Brenda, John.

Yes, Brenda.

My mom smiled. Dad walked in with the chicken and the steaks.

Who's hungry?

We all sat down together. Dad did a great job on the steaks. We talked about the house and the work it needed. John said he would talk to his dad and uncle tomorrow and see what he can find out.

John asked, When would you like to move in?

Dan says, pending a good report on a home inspection and any permit issues we'd like to be able to move in before next school year.

John asked when are you getting married, have you set a date?

Not yet said, Mom. We have business matters in Ohio that we need to finish up, first. I have to sell our home and my business first. I have to finish out the school year before I can retire, said Dan.

Ree may have to come back to Ohio for a week for mediation or court as well, said Mom.

Sounds like a lot of work, said John. Anything I can help with?

Just take care of our girl, John. Dad winked at him.

Brenda and I have almost everything ready. We just need to get a few things settled, and with any luck, we'll be moving out here this summer.

We finished our dinner, and Mom and I cleaned up. Aunt V called and said she would be home tomorrow afternoon and she was bringing Lexi with her. Linda called and said Emma was coming over too. I touched up my makeup and John and I headed out.

Be back by midnight honey, Mom said.

Yes, ma'am said John.

Where are you going? Asked Dan.

The country club has a teen party and dance for the Meadows High School tonight.

Have fun, kids, and be careful Mom said.

We will, Mom!

John took me to Johnny Rockets. First, we shared another Chocolate Malt. We sat and chatted about dinner and his conversation with Dad. It was nice to know he knew exactly what to say to Dan.

I was touching up my lipstick in the sideview mirror. John said here, I added this for you. He flipped down the sun visor and there was a makeup mirror with a little light.

Thank you! That's very thoughtful of you.

John just smiled that adorable smile I love. I touched myself up and we walked in, arm in arm. Almost everyone was there. Lexi, James, Evan, and Emma. It was a huge event. There was a DJ and the dance floor was enormous. Almost the entire school seems to be here. We had a blast. I saved all but one slow dance for John.

I danced to one slow song with Julius. Julius was so tall and his hands were huge. Julius was like a big teddy bear.

You know Ree I've never seen my boy John happier. I'm very happy for you two.

Thanks, Julius.

What's this I hear about you buying a house?

Yes, my Mom and Dad.

Is that the one Anita's mom is trying to sell, the fixer-upper?

How'd you know? John?

No, I saw you go into it the other day with what I assumed was your parents. You know that place has a lot of potential, but it needs a lot of work!

I know, but I love that house. It's like me, a fixer-upper!

You don't look like you need anything fixed Ree!

Maybe not anymore, but I did at one time.

My family does construction. If you need anything, just ask. I'm happy to help.

Thanks, Julius, I'll let you know! I tip-toed and kissed his cheek. You're very sweet Julius.

As the song ended, John cut in. What was that all about?

John!!! Are you jealous? No, yes, no. Ree!!!!

Easy John, I ran my fingernail across his chiseled jawline. You've got nothing to worry about. Julius was offering to help with the house. Did you say anything to him?

No not a word. I thought so. I knew the answer but I wanted to see how he handled it. We danced until the song ended

Let me get us some punch, said John. I'll be right back. John sat me down at our table and went to get the punch. I was just touching up my lipstick when Cheryl, Kelly, Lori and Lilly stopped by.

Hey Ree!

Hey girls! Happy New Year!

How was your holiday? They asked.

Great! How was yours?

They showed me their shoes.

Those are beautiful! Christmas?

Yes! We went shopping after Christmas, we hit almost every sale, it was a blast!

What did you do over Christmas? Would you like to see it?

Ohh!!! Pictures!!! They huddled around my phone.

My family and I went to Napa Valley to my Aunt Cathy's parents' winery and vineyard. I started scrolling through the pictures. The sunrise and sunset are amazing and magical there.

It's beautiful Ree, said Kelly

It's like a painting, said Cheryl.

You have a great eye for photography, said Lilly.

Thank girls, I love that place.

Did you have any wine? Asked Kelly.

No, they wouldn't let me, I'm not old enough yet.

I like these girls but I wasn't about to trust them with anything like that.

Who's that? Lori pointed at Caleb and Cathy. That's my Aunt Cathy and Uncle Caleb.

Is she a model?

No, she's an attorney and my role model. Caleb is an attorney too.

He's very handsome, said Kelly.

He's very strong too! I said. We can see that said Cheryl.

He was a national championship wrestler at Notre Dame too, said John!

Ohh!! Hi John the girls said in unison.

Hi girls! Ree here you go.

Thanks, John. I took a sip.

We should get back, come on girls, said Kelly. Ciao!!

What was that all about?

Small talk! Your timing couldn't have been better, I smiled at him.

We sat and chatted. We decided to slow dance. After our slow dance, I suggested we socialize a little bit. We made our way around the room trying to casually socialize with everyone a little bit.

I'm a little popular, but John was royalty now, whether he liked it or not. I explained to him he should try to be friendly with everyone that was there. He wasn't so sure at first. But as we mingled through the crowd he began to understand that everyone there just wanted to show their respect for him and the football team and their championship.

When John noticed Julius, Adam, and his other teammates were doing the same thing, he felt better about it. I assured John that you're a local celebrity now. Just be yourself and don't let the popularity go to your head.

No chance of that, said John. Have you met my family?

We laughed.