One Boy's Journey Chapter 2

Written by Brianna Demonet

When Cathy and I entered my Mom's salon, mom didn't hardly recognize me. Cathy walked in first then me. My mom did a double and triple take. She recognized my skater dress. Ree??

Hi mom! I said shyly

Oh baby you're beautiful! Mom exclaimed.

Mom, this is Cathy Pambini, Cathy, my mother, Brenda Stevens.

Ms Pambini I can't thank you enough for this. Ohhh Ree your Hair!!!! It's perfect. I love the Ash Red and those eyebrows, eh!! Mom squeaked I love them.

Look at my ears and nose, Mom!

They're adorable. Oh, wait! I said look at this Blazerdress and shoes for the deposition tomorrow.

They're lovely. Mom said.

Ms Pambini, you shouldn't have! I'll pay you back. Mom said with appreciation.

No need, Ms Stevens and please call me Cathy.

Call me Brenda.

Thank you, Brenda. I must say Ree is a quick study to become a girl.

Thanks to you, Cathy, she looks like a girl.

Let's get dinner tonight, my treat said Cathy. We can discuss the case and we can get to know one another.

Do you like Italian?

Asked my mom. I'm half Italian, I love Italian. Said Cathy. I'm going to go to my hotel and clean up a bit.

Meet me at the hotel at 7 pm. We can ride to the restaurant together.

Sounds great said Brenda.

Mom, can Cathy drop at home? I'd like to lie down for a bit.

Sure sweetheart, just rest for now. Mom said.

Come on, Ree, let's get home, said Cathy.

I Kissed my Mom's cheek and we headed out.

Cathy walks in with me. She says what else do you have for clothes?

I showed her the Kakie skirt. Mom got me a green short-sleeved blouse.

Oh, that's cute. Wear those black heels we got you with it

Cathy showed me how to mix and match my limited choices. She also showed me a couple of makeup tricks. My head was spinning with all this girl stuff.

Cathy made it fun but a lot of work. Finally, I was so tired I was fading out. Cathy helped me with one of the baby doll nighties and I was out.

When mom returned I jumped in the shower and put on my black bra and panties. Mom saw my nightie and loved it. Mom helped me disinfect my ears and nose. I lay out my makeshift outfit. I put on my makeup as taught.

Soft browns, with just a touch of eyeliner and mascara. After a bit of foundation and some blush and light pink lipstick, I'm ready. Mom's ready in no time! Thinking to myself, Gosh, I hope I can learn as fast and well as Mom.

We picked up Cathy and went to Luigi's for dinner. Cathy reserved a private room. We sat and ordered our drinks. After the waitress left Cathy got down to business.

After dinner tonight we are going to prepare for tomorrow's deposition. I am going to come at you hard with questions and comments. The DA will prepare you. But their defense attorney will structure every question to seem like this was your fault.

You can't fall for that. You can't let them gaslight you into thinking it's your fault, not for a second. Your Aunt V sent me here to protect you both. That's exactly what I intend to do. Cathy said in a serious tone.

The waitress brings our drinks and iced tea all around.

Mom asked, how bad are we talking here?

It's going to be brutal. Ree, you're going to have to relive it all over again. Are you up for that? Cathy asked.

Yes, I am. I want them in jail.

Good! Said Cathy.

Remember that when the defense attorney attacks your story.

What about Mr Milford? Asked my mom.

The DA is preparing him. My focus is Ree said, Cathy.

What about a civil suit? Mom asked.

That's down the road; for now, we need to focus on tomorrow. If deposition goes well, it could be over quickly, Cathy said.

We had a great dinner, I was so hungry I ate too much. It tasted great. We went home, and Cathy grilled me hard! I maintained my composure for the most part.

I broke down and cried a couple of times. We told Cathy about Mrs Newhouse. She said the same thing as the DA did. We were at it for two hours. I started fading in and out. Mom got me ready for bed and I was out.

The next morning I awoke to the shower running. Mom was getting ready for work. I got up and my phone rang. It was Cathy. She said she would pick me up in an hour. I told Mom. Mom said she would meet us at 3 pm at the DA's office.

Cathy wanted to walk me through everything a couple more times. Cathy made me grab my boy's pictures from last month, the hospital bills, and everything related to the incident.

I almost had another PTSD episode. Cathy was careful with me. As bad as this situation is. I really like Cathy. I was never really goal-oriented about college. After two days with Cathy, I like the idea of becoming a lawyer. We got a call at noon. Aunt V was arriving at the airport soon.

Cathy and I touched ourselves up and went to the airport to pick her up. I was in my red and black Blazer dress. Aunt V was all smiles seeing me with Cathy.

Aunt V loved my new look. She noticed everything. I gave Cathy credit. We went downtown to the courthouse. We entered the DA office early. DA Summers greeted us and escorted us to his office.

Where's your mother? He asked

At work, sir; she'll be in for the deposition at 3 pm. I said. You need a parent or guardian for this young lady, he said.

Cathy handed him the contract. I'm Cathy Pambini, Rianna's attorney of record.

I see! Very well ladies, let's begin.

Mr Summers was very professional, he had lunch delivered and we worked right to the last minute preparing. He already had everything from the hospital and police reports, Mr Milford's statement. When Cathy showed my boy pictures from two months ago. That really puts things in perspective for him.

Cathy discussed strategy with Mr Summers. I sat and listened, I didn't say a word. I could tell Cathy and Aunt V had my back. Mom came in, dressed in a smart-looking pencil skirt suit. I hugged her and cried.

I've been super emotional lately. Having these three women with me, made me feel stronger. I was still sore and adjusting to my new gender. But I was beginning to see the advantages of being a woman.

Cathy was much younger than Mr Summers, but he listened to her. Cathy was able to make him shift his focus from protecting me to his previous goal of a plea bargain. Mr Summers was more confident about the case than ever. Now all I had to do was stay truthful and focused.

Deposition

3 pm arrives in walks Mrs Newhouse with her boys. The boys are dressed in nice suits, shaved with fresh haircuts trying to look respectful. Mrs Newhouse's attorney was Jack Fisk. He was the best attorney around. He used to be the DA at one time.

Mr Fisk was a tall, husky man. He had square shaped face with a wide jaw and strong chin. He had a charming smile and a smooth, low, deep voice that could intimidate most people; it intimidated me.

Cathy saw it, held my hand, and said relax softly in my ear. Mom padded my knee.

Afternoon, ladies, Larry. Beautiful day today, Mr Fisk said.

Hello Jack, take a seat.

Jack pulled out a chair for Mrs Newhouse.

Shall we get started asked Mr. Summers.

Thank you, Larry! Jack said.

Rianna is it? My name is Jack Fisk I am the defense attorney for Richard and Thomas Newhouse. Please state your gender for the record.

Jack! What the hell? Asked Mr. Summers demandingly!

I need to know for the record, Mr Fisk asked

Up until about 6 weeks ago, I was a boy until they beat me to an inch of my life. I said.

According to my clients, you attacked them in the bathroom, and they acted in self-defense.

Is there a question Jack? Asked Mr. Summers.

I want to know why this person would attack my clients.

Simple, sir, I didn't attack them. I was pulled into the bathroom and they attacked me. Rick kicked me numerous times in my crotch with his boots while the rest of them worked me over. They only stopped when I stopped moving.

Who pulled you in the bathroom?

Billy Bond and Paul Jeffries, and then they helped them give me a swirly. After that, they beat me.

What did you say to them? Asked Mr. Fisk.

Stop! was all I said.

Did my clients say anything to you?

They called me a faggot, cocksucker, sissy boy, fagboy.

Are you sure it was my clients?

Yes sir! See that gouging scratch on Rick's left eye, I gave it to him right before they almost drowned me in the toilet.

So you admit to assaulting my client?

No! I admit to defending myself against all four of them.

Why are you now dressed as a girl with a girl's name?

Because Rick's crotch kicks. My genitals were damaged beyond repair and I'm allergic to testosterone medicine. I had no choice for a normal life as a male, all thanks to them. This is the life I have to lead now all because of them.

I find that difficult to believe! Mr Fisk said.

Mr. Summers slapped my medical file on the conference room table. It was over two inches thick!

Please tell me you read the medical reports, Jack! Mr. Summers said.

Your clients beat me within inches of my life. Mutilated me and left me for dead! I said coldly.

Without warning, I had a PTSD episode right there on camera in the conference room. Mr Summers called 911. I woke up as everyone was gathering outside while Mom and paramedics took care of me.

I'm sitting up in a chair as they check my blood pressure again. My Mom waved in Aunt V and Cathy.

Are you alright? Mr. Summers asked with compassion.

I just need a few minutes. I said weakly.

Cathy suggested, Brenda, Vanessa please take Rianna to the cafeteria for a bite to eat. I need to talk with Jack and Larry for a few minutes. Cathy's face had a serious expression, it kinda scared me a bit.

Mom and Vanessa walk me to the cafeteria where we get bottled water and a small salad.

What happened after my episode? I asked.

Well, one thing is for sure: the defense attorney is scared now. Aunt Vanessa said.

What, Why? I asked.

Well, honestly, honey, your episode could not have been timed better and caught on camera. My Mom said.

We were in the cafeteria for about 20 minutes when Mr Summers's secretary came into the cafeteria.

Ladies, would you come with me, please?

We clear our table and head upstairs. As we rode the elevator up to the conference room, I kept wondering how many more times I would have to relive it.

Cathy was standing next to Mr Summers. Jack was standing across from them next to Mrs Newhouse. Her boys, Tommy and Rick, were crying, heads bowing as we walked in.

Ladies, please sit, said Mr Summers. We sat, my Mom on one side and Aunt Vanessa on the other; they held my hands tightly.

Ms Stevens, Rianna, We have negotiated a plea deal. While it's a bit unconventional, however Ms Pambini and I feel it serves everyone justice in your case.

No trial? I asked sounding disappointed.

Please, Ree, just listen. Aunt Vanessa said.

Please continue Mr Summers, Mom said.

Tommy and Rick will spend the next 2 1/2 years in juvenile detention. They will be released when they turn 18 and have completed high school inside. They will plead guilty to 4th-degree assault and 3rd-degree attempted manslaughter.

Both charges are high misdemeanors. Upon release with 20 years of probation with a suspended sentence of 20 years. Full charges will be implemented if they get in any trouble above a civil infraction.

They also have to wear ankle monitors for the full 20 years. Mrs Newhouse added that after they're released from detention and three years wearing a chastity cage. The court will hold the keys for the chastity.

Will this all be a public record? Asked Vanessa.

Everything except the chastity punishment. The chastity punishment was Mrs Newhouse's idea. She felt that her sons needed to understand to some level your frustration Rianna.

Cathy said. I wasn't going to agree to this until she offered the chastity punishment with court supervision.

They should be tried as adults, it's also a hate crime. I said, sounding disappointed.

That's true Rianna! Mr Summers said. And Federal prison is where they'll go if they cross the line. Terre Haute Indiana Federal Prison, to be exact.

Detective Smith and a federal agent friend of mine will be giving them a prison tour tomorrow. After their field trip, they will be remanded into custody and start their sentence early this coming Monday morning.

Any questions or comments, Rianna? Asked Mr Summers.

So they get the weekend off before going to juvenile detention? I asked.

Hardly! Mr Summers said. After their return, they will be held in county jail awaiting transport.

What happens if they commit a crime in juvenile detention? I asked.

Then, they get transferred to federal prison on the hate crime charge when they turn 18, regardless of whether they finish school or anything else.

We can process this plea bargain right now and file it with the court tomorrow. We don't need your blessing Rianna, but you are the victim. You deserve the right to know, and we'd like your blessing, Mr Summers said.

Mr Summers, can I have a minute with Cathy and my family? I asked.

Of course Rianna. We'll be in my office. Mr Summers said. Jack, Mrs Newhouse, boys follow me. When the boys stood up I saw them in handcuffs.

Woo, woo, I let out a deep sigh!

Ree, are you alright? Aunt V asked

I'm alright. I don't know what to think. Cathy, what do you think? I asked.

Legally, they are 15-year-old twin brothers with no criminal record. They're as guilty as sin.

Having said that, if we go to trial you will have to relive your story over and over while being attacked by Mr Fisk. In the end, there's a small chance they could walk! Their mother is deeply appalled at what happened.

If we take the deal, it's guaranteed they get punished and have to have this hanging over their heads until the day they die. It's not a normal deal by any stretch of the imagination, but in my opinion, it serves justice. Cathy said.

Mom, Aunt V, what do you think?

Cathy said it all, Ree! Mom said. I think it's a good deal. Besides, the Newhouse name won't be as prestigious as it once was, not after this.

Your Mom's right sweetheart, Cathy is right. These boys, one way or another, will be paying for this forever. Aunt V said.

Okay ladies, I said. Let's take the deal. One condition,

What's That Ree? Asked Cathy.

I want us to read it in writing, and Cathy, please make sure it's airtight. No tricks. I may be 13 years old but I'm not stupid.

I want to ensure there isn't a clause for preventing a civil suit or any gag orders. All of it is public records except their chastity punishment.

Deal! Cathy said. Smart girl!

I smiled for the first time in weeks.

Let's go then Ladies. My Mom said. Let's put an end to this.

We walk into Mr Summers's office.

Come in, Ladies. Have you made a decision, Rianna?

Yes, sir, on one condition. Cathy said.

Which is? Mr. Fisk said with an eyebrow raised.

We review the deal in writing now and just before filing with the judge said Cathy.

Done! Have a seat, ladies, Let's review, shall we? Mr Summers said.

30 minutes later, we all walked to the court clerk's office. Ms Lawson was working, and her mom did her hair.

Brenda? Wha, oh my Ryan? Rianna now, my mother said. Julie, we need to file the plea deal with Judge Franks for tomorrow, please.

No problem, he has a 9 am opening for the hearing tomorrow. Perfect! Mr. Summers said. See you all at 9 am.

Rianna, I'm so happy to see you up and about. You're very pretty Rianna. Thank you, Mrs Lawson.

The detective met us all back at Mr Summers's office with two patrolmen. Mrs Newhouse was saying her goodbyes.

Please, ma'am, I need to remand them for the night. Mrs Newhouse teared up as she hugged and kissed her handcuffed sons. She watched as they were taken to detention downstairs for the night.

Wow! Is it really over? I asked.

Almost! Said Cathy. The judge has to sign off.

They don't call him "Fearsome Franks" for nothing, said Mr Summers.

I heard that a couple of times in my shop, Mom said

He loves throwing the book at unprovoked and violent crimes. Mr.Summers said.

Who's hungry? Asked Vanessa.

I could eat, I said.

Good! Mom said that means my little girl is feeling better.

Cathy smiles and says, lead on V!

As we start to leave we see Tommy and Rick entering the detention section. Rick looked at me with pure sadness, Tommy was pure hate and anger. Their mother was in tears.

Serves them right Aunt V said! Come on girls!

We settled on Red Lobster for dinner. Mom and I can only ever eat here once a year. We have to watch every penny. It's not super expensive but for us, it might as well be.

Vanessa encourages me to have a lobster tail. We all end up with lobster tails. Mom, Cathy, and Aunt V order cosmos for drinks. I get a Sprite. Vanessa orders Calamari for an appetizer. I loved it. We chat about court tomorrow and my future.

Cathy says I hear you get good grades in school but no extracurricular activities.

Yes, that's true. I won't be able to go back to school here after tomorrow.

Why? asked Cathy.

Those 4 boys were very popular. All-stars for football and other sports. The football team won't make the playoffs next year without them.

You're coming with me said Aunt V. You'll stay this summer with me in Vegas and start school in the fall.

What about Mom?

I'll be fine, sweetheart. I have to look after the Salon. When I can sell it and our home. I'll move out west with you as soon as I can.

What about the civil suit? I asked.

That takes time Ree! Cathy said. First, we have to finalize the deal tomorrow, and then we can start the lawsuit.

How much are we suing for?

25 million dollars! Said Cathy.

That's like hitting the lottery, I said.

Anything over 5 million is a victory, said Cathy.

How much do you get Cathy? Normally, my firm rate is 40%, but My firm and I take on all expenses to win or lose. My firm, Stapleton&Elgin, is doing it for 25%. But this takes time, and if we do mediation, we can get a faster settlement. Be patient sweetheart, all things in time! Said Cathy.

Besides, you'll be very busy this summer! Mom said.

How so? I asked.

You need to learn to be a girl. You need to learn to walk, talk, sit, eat, move, think, and overall act as a young woman. Plus you'll have to study for your new school's entrance exam. Aunt V said.

Exam for school? I asked.

It's a private school, honey, very exclusive. All the top colleges recruit the students there. Aunt V stated.

College? We can't afford college, I said.

After everything is settled you'll be able to have college paid for in full, said Cathy.

So have you thought about a career? Asked Aunt V.

Actually, I have. I said.

Really, what? Asked mom.

I think I want to be an Attorney.

Cathy beamed at me with a big smile.

I want to help those who can't help themselves.

When you graduate, I know the perfect law firm for you, young lady, mine! Said Cathy.

Really? I asked.

She's right said Vanessa. Cathy's firm has a long record for public service as well as high-end clients.

Cathy smiled with pride. We aren't the biggest firm, but we are the best.

What will Mr Stapleton or Mr Elgin say about someone like me?

Nothing negative; I can promise you that! And it's Ms Stapleton and Ms Elgin, my mentors!

You don't have to be a lawyer, Mom said...

Mom, I know I don't. After spending time with Cathy and everyone involved with my case, it's been an eye-opener for me.

I also know there's no way I can live here anymore.

Why's that asked Mom. See those two girls whispering behind me?

Yes. Mom said.

That's Rick and Tommy's girlfriends. Cathy looked at them with a mean-girl stare they gave me.

I'll be in most of their classes next year. It would be the same thing only with girls. They practically run the school, both social and student government.

You make a valid point, Mom said.

As do you three, I said. I'm going to miss you, Mom.

I'll miss you too sweetheart.

We finished our meals. Mom invited Aunt V and Cathy for coffee. Cathy went to say something.

Cathy, I bought an espresso roast.

You're a godsend, Brenda, said Cathy.

We giggled. It was getting late when Aunt V and Cathy headed back to the hotel.

I was up at 6 am getting ready. It took me over an hour to do my makeup. I put on my pencil skirt suit and black 3" heels. I wanted the judge to see me as respectful.

Mom wore her dark blue power pantsuit with 4"heels. She looked like a lawyer, powerful and professional. Cathy and Aunt V rode together.

Walking into the courtroom was intimidating at first. Cathy saw my hesitation.

If you want to be a lawyer, here's your first lesson. Never look scared; fake it if you have to. Lawyers are sharks. Never be afraid to bite down hard.

You're a shark? I asked.

Girlfriend, I'm a megalodon! Cathy said. I don't lose often. This case is personal to me and your family.

Your family to us Cathy! My Mom said.

As I sat there listening to these women, thinking to myself, things became more clear than ever. I was beginning to grasp a newfound focus on my future. I have never really thought about my future much.

I always figured I'd be working in a factory, maybe taking over Mom's salon. Now my eyes are wide open to college and new possibilities of a brighter future. A fresh start!

I listened as the judge picked apart the deal. He continued to ask Mrs Newhouse and Tommy and Rick if this was acceptable to them, and they were doing this of their own free will.

Yes, your honor is the only thing they said during the hearing.

Mrs Newhouse! Being that your sons have pleaded guilty to this horrible crime, there are penalties for the parents as well.

What penalties are you talking about your honor? Asked Mr Fisk.

First off, you and your husband must resign from the chamber of commerce; you must also resign from the Children's Museum board of directors as well as the Historical Society. You and your husband are being charged with misdemeanors for child neglect. With multiple fines to be determined shortly.

There will be fines, probation, and community service will be mandatory. Please have yourself and your husband available for court at 10 am Monday.

Your Honor My husband is overseas on business and won't be back for at least another week.

I wasn't asking Mrs Newhouse. If he isn't here on Monday, I will slap you both with contempt of court, and you will be remanded to the county jail until your husband returns, and you both will be extensively fined for wasting the court's time.

My jaw dropped.

Yes, your honor was all she said.

Bullying children is a crime! I will not tolerate bullying in any form or fashion Judge Franks said. Children who bully others are a prime example of poor parenting, and for that, there's no excuse! Especially for people with your means and resources. Courts adjourned, and Judge Franks bangs his gavel.

We walked out of the courthouse all of us dumbfounded by the results of the hearing. I heard he's got a fearsome reputation, but that was remarkable. My Mom said.

As I turned to walk out there was Mr Milford sitting in court.

I walked to him quickly. Mr Milford, I called out. He turned and smiled at me. Thank you for saving my life I said.

I'm glad you survived young lady. I wish I could have gotten there a few minutes sooner.

Mr Milford this is my Aunt Vanessa and Aunt Cathy. And this is my mother Brenda Stevens.

Pleased to meet you, ladies.

We are very grateful to you, Mr Milford. My Aunt Vanessa said.

You saved our Rianna, sir. May we buy you lunch? Mom asked.

That's very kind but no, I've got work to do. I took the morning off to see those animals get what was coming to them.

We are forever grateful Cathy said. Here's my card. If you need anything you call me.

Thank you he said with a bright smile. He smiled as he looked at my mom, she blushed just a touch.

We went back to our house. Cathy and Vanessa started packing me up. We had to go back to Kohl's department store and buy myself some luggage and a couple of purses. Mom bought me some jeans and denim skirts and a few more blouses.

Vanessa bought me pink and purple skater dresses I liked and another pencil skirt suit in light blue with matching shoes and we also got me some more stockings.

Tomorrow I was getting on the plane with Cathy and Vanessa. When I looked in the mirror while trying on the clothes all I see is a cute girl I'd like to ask out.

I was just walking out of women's changing rooms when I was confronted by Gina and Candy, Tommy and Rick's girlfriends.

Excuse me, I said, as they blocked my path.

Are you happy now sissy bitch? Candy asked.

Feeling proud of yourself, faggot? How many more lives are going to fuck up? Gina asked.

What are you talking about? I asked.

You, you selfish bitch. You sent our boyfriends to jail, all because you got slapped around a bit. Now the four most popular boys in school are in jail.

Slapped around? Seriously? They almost killed me. I was determined to stand my ground this time. My legs were shaking from the adrenaline.

Those assholes you call popular broke my nose, punctured my lung, broke 3 of my ribs, and they mutilated my genitals. Thanks to your asshole boyfriends I had to get a sex change. Say what you want but they deserve everything coming to them! I stated a little loudly and firmly.

Maybe we should finish the job Gina, and send this tranny bitch to hell. Candy said.

Oh No, You Won't, girls! The security guard caught the scene. You two drop your things and get out.

Fuck you rent a cop! Do you know who my parents are?

No, and I don't care. But if you two don't leave right now, I do know where your parents will find you, jail! Now move it, girls now!

Mom, Vanessa, and Cathy heard the commotion and came running.

What's going on? Mom asked

These girls were bullying your daughter two-on-one. The security guard said.

You're the girls from the restaurant, the ones giving my niece dirty looks while we ate dinner, said Aunt V.

It's because of her our boyfriends are in jail. Gina said flatly.

Your boyfriends are in jail for attempted murder. Keep it up, girls. You'll be joining Cathy said.

As scared as I was during this scene, I wasn't about to back down. All the popular kids in our town were rich, entitled, and fancy clothes with two parents.

Their parents were always doctors, lawyers, or some kind of business executive. I knew right then if I wanted a real life and a better life I needed to move.

The security guard radioed for a female guard to help escort them out. They kept glaring at me as they walked out.

Cathy and Vanessa commented on the scene.

Are all the rich kids like that in your school? Asked Cathy.

Pretty much I said.

Unbelievable! Said Vanessa.

If your clothes aren't name brand and they don't like your address; you are their enemy and their victim. I think you ladies are right, I have to go to Vegas. I just don't want to leave Mom. It's clear to me now. I don't have another choice. I said.

Everything will be okay. You're gonna love the new school, Rianna, it's private, and the Principal is a friend of mine, said Vanessa.

If you're serious about being a lawyer, I will fly you out to San Francisco to stay with me for a few days this summer, Cathy said.

You can meet my colleagues and friends.

Sounds like the only thing I'll need is my X-box.

You won't need that either, honey, Mom said. You're gonna be way too busy for video games.

We checked out of the store and headed home. I was starting to get dizzy and faded out when we pulled into the driveway. Mom and Vanessa helped walk me, half dazed, to my bed.

When I woke up everyone was moving things around. I noticed I was dressed in a nightie.

Mom, Vanessa, and Cathy laid out my new skinny jeans and green short-sleeve blouse with ruffle socks and my Sketchers. They packed me a purse and two large suitcases. I was surprised at all the activity. I fell asleep and was still exhausted.

The next morning. I was in the shower when they arrived. Cathy and Vanessa were dressed casually in jeans too. Even in jeans they still looked classy. We loaded up, I hugged the stuffing out of my Mom.

This was the first time my mom and I were going to be apart for a long time. I was crying and scared. I knew I was in good hands with Aunt V. But new school, new gender, new name, new life, it's a lot to process.

Mom walked beside the car as we backed out and headed to the airport. Mom waved as we rounded the corner. I started tearing up. Aunt Vanessa sat in the back with me as Cathy drove the rental car to the airport rental returns.

Ree, I know you're scared, you don't need to be, Aunt Vanessa said. Think of this as an adventure. You're starting a new life. Your Mom, Cathy, and I have a plan. You are going to love it.

What plan? Can you be specific? I asked.

You know you'll have to study for the school's entrance exam. Now that you seem determined to go to college we have a plan for that too.

Keep going, Aunt V! I said.

You'll be attending ballet classes again. I have a pool at my house. You will be able to swim every day. You'll also be attending yoga classes with me. I know it sounds like a lot, but you need to blend in. This school is very exclusive, and a straight shot to a college of your choice.

If you want to be a lawyer, this is the best way Ree, Cathy. Said.

One thing, I said.

What's that? Aunt Vanessa asked.

Can I be a cheerleader?

Of course honey. That means gymnastics too!

I'm okay with that, I said.

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