My Crossdress up Darling Ch 11 : The Performance (END)

The day had finally arrived. Steve’s heart pounded as he carefully folded his gown, placing it delicately in the suitcase alongside the accessories he’d need. The glass-like necklace, the sparkling earrings, the subtle tiara—all items chosen to complete his transformation. Each piece made the whole performance feel more real, and the weight of what he was about to do felt heavier with each minute.

He hadn’t been able to sleep a wink last night. His mind kept replaying the dance over and over, each movement, each step. And every time he thought of Mitch—of how Mitch would look as his “prince” onstage, leading him through the dance—his stomach would do nervous flips.

What if I mess up? he thought for the hundredth time. He felt like he’d been through this before, but today was different. Today, he’d actually be out there, performing in front of an audience, with Mitch’s hand guiding him. It was a thrill that both excited and terrified him.

Suddenly, his phone buzzed, pulling him from his thoughts. It was a text from Lily.

Lily: “Hey, Stephie! I’ll be waiting for you at the station. Can’t wait to see you in that gown! Today’s going to be amazing, don’t you think? :)”

Steve smiled, her enthusiasm helping to steady his nerves a little. He took a deep breath, read over her message again, and replied.

Steve: “Thanks, Lily. I’m on my way. Just… making sure I don’t forget anything. Be there soon!”

Grabbing his suitcase, he took one last look around his room, checking he had everything he’d need. The gown and accessories were all there, packed and ready to go. His heart raced as he locked the door behind him and stepped out, feeling like he was about to step into a dream—or maybe even a new part of his life.

As he walked toward the station, he knew today would be unforgettable. And, despite the nerves fluttering in his stomach, he couldn’t wait to see what it had in event.

Steve arrived at the metro station, his heart pounding as he scanned the busy crowd for Lily. He was dressed as Stephanie, in a white flowered dress that fluttered slightly in the breeze, with light makeup that he’d applied as carefully as he could. Finally, he spotted Lily sitting on one of the benches, waiting for him, her eyes lighting up as he approached.



“Well, well,” she said with a smirk, crossing her arms. “Couldn’t wait to bring out Stephie, huh?”

Steve felt his face heat up, glancing around to make sure no familiar faces were nearby. “Hey, our ‘disguise rule’ still applies,” he murmured, his voice low and a bit defensive. “I just don’t want anyone from the office to see us… you know, together.”

Lily raised an eyebrow, her smirk turning into a warm smile. “I know, I know. I appreciate it, really.” She looked him up and down, eyes twinkling. “But… there’s one little detail I think you missed.”

“What? Is something wrong?” Steve asked, his voice betraying a hint of panic as he reached up, touching his face to check.

“Relax, it’s nothing big,” she said, chuckling softly. “Just a tiny makeup touch-up you might want before the event. I’ll help you fix it when we get to the dressing room.”

“Oh,” he breathed, feeling his shoulders relax. “I guess I got a little nervous with all of this…”

Lily patted his arm reassuringly. “You did a great job, don’t worry! But I’ll make sure you’re absolutely flawless by the time we get there.”

Steve nodded, smiling despite his nerves. He took a steadying breath as they walked toward the platform together, excitement bubbling underneath his nerves. “Thanks, Lily. I’m really glad I have you with me for this.”

She squeezed his arm, flashing him a grin. “Always, Stephie. Let’s make this day unforgettable.”

It was a quiet Saturday morning, the kind of morning where the world seemed to move just a little slower, even on the bustling metro. The train was emptier than usual—most of the passengers had yet to wake up from their Friday night adventures, and the city seemed to be still in the early hours of the weekend. The soft hum of the train as it glided through the city echoed in the near-empty car. 

Steve and Lily sat together in one of the corners, nestled by the window. The seats around them were mostly vacant, allowing them the privacy to enjoy the quiet ride. The soft rattle of the train as it passed over the tracks was almost soothing, but for Steve, his thoughts were far from calm. 



Lily sat close to him, her small frame barely touching his, but the warmth of her presence was undeniable. Her hand brushed his as she squeezed his arm playfully, and Steve’s heart jolted at the contact. He tried to act casual, but inside, his mind was spiraling. He couldn’t help but notice how natural it felt—how cute they looked sitting together, like two girl friends on a Saturday outing.

But there was a mix of emotions boiling inside him. On the one hand, he was genuinely happy. It felt right to be with Lily, to share these little moments, to just be by her side. But on the other hand, there was something deeper, something that he hadn’t yet been able to process. His thoughts kept circling back to Mitch. To the feelings he had for him. To the confusion in his heart. 

He had always been straight, or so he thought. But as he spent more time with Mitch, his heart had started to feel things it wasn’t supposed to. It was overwhelming, and he knew he had to talk to someone about it. But how could he tell Lily? How could he possibly explain that, despite all the times they had spent together, something inside him was telling him he might be gay? The fear of what that might mean, of how Lily might feel, gnawed at him. 

He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. Lily was resting her head against his shoulder now, her soft breath even and calm as she slept. She looked so peaceful, so content. Steve felt his heart ache at the sight. He wanted to confess everything to her. To tell her that his feelings for her were complicated, that maybe he wasn’t the person she thought he was. But every time he thought about saying the words, something held him back.

He could already imagine the hurt in her eyes, the confusion, maybe even the heartbreak. She had always been there for him, always supported him. How could he say something that might shatter everything? The thought of losing her, of her walking away because of his truth, made him feel like his heart was tied in knots. But at the same time, he couldn’t keep lying to himself. He couldn’t bury his feelings forever.

As the train swayed gently, Steve’s eyes lingered on Lily’s face. Her lashes fluttered slightly as she dreamed, and the soft rise and fall of her chest seemed so gentle, so fragile. Steve’s chest tightened as he realized that he would never be able to tell her the truth if he kept holding it in. The weight of his secret was starting to suffocate him, and yet, he still couldn’t find the courage to speak it aloud.

He glanced down at her again, her head still resting on his shoulder, and felt a rush of warmth flood his chest. He couldn’t ignore it any longer—he had to say something. 

“Lily,” he whispered, barely above a breath, “I need to talk about something…”

Before he could get any further, the soft sound of Lily stirring interrupted his thoughts. Her eyes fluttered open slowly, and she blinked at him, still groggy from her nap. “Did we arrive already?” she mumbled, rubbing her eyes.

Steve froze. His words were still caught in his throat. He had wanted to speak, to finally confess the turmoil inside him, but now, with her wide eyes staring at him, he hesitated. The moment had slipped away, like sand through his fingers.

“Looks like we’re here,” Lily said with a smile, clearly not noticing Steve’s internal battle. She stretched, letting out a little yawn. “C’mon, Stephie, let’s get off the train. We can talk later, okay?”

Steve opened his mouth, wanting to say something, to stop her, but the announcement came over the loudspeaker. 

“Next stop: Metro city Station” 

Lily stood up, adjusting her bag with a cheerful expression, as if the conversation they had almost had didn’t matter. “Oh! It’s our stop! Let’s go!”

Steve sat there for a moment, his mind still racing, his heart still tangled with emotions. He had been so close to saying it—so close to telling her everything—but the moment had slipped away. As he stood and followed her off the train, the weight of the unsaid words pressed heavily on him. 

He had wanted to confess his feelings to Lily, but now, as they stepped out into the sunlight, he realized he still didn’t know how to say it. The confusion lingered, and the fear of what might happen if he spoke the truth felt more suffocating than ever. 

The sun was just beginning to rise as Steve and Lily arrived at the event venue. It was an early Saturday morning, and despite the hour, the atmosphere was electric. The event was the launch of the new open-world adventure game, Shining Kiky. It promised a unique twist on the genre, combining fast-paced exploration with a heavy emphasis on fashion, where players could “save the world with fashion” by using outfits and accessories to unlock new abilities and paths. 

As Steve and Lily walked through the entrance of the convention hall, they couldn’t help but marvel at the sight. The walls were adorned with vibrant banners featuring key art from the game, and large digital screens displayed trailers, showcasing scenes from the game that mixed adventure with high-fashion elements. A large stage stood in the center, with lights and sound equipment already set up, ready for the day’s events. 

Angela’s team was already there, and she was hard at work with her crew, adjusting the lighting, checking the sound levels, and overseeing the final preparations. She was a perfectionist, and there was no doubt that this event had to go off without a hitch. Steve and Lily spotted her at the front of the stage, clipboard in hand, giving orders.

“Angela!” Lily called, waving as she walked over. “Everything’s looking great!”

Angela looked up from her clipboard and smiled brightly. “You bet! I’ve been here since last night, making sure every detail is perfect. From the stage to the sound, lighting, and even the music, everything needs to be flawless for the launch. You guys are going to love it!”

Steve smiled but couldn’t help feeling a little anxious. He had never been a big fan of big crowds, and the thought of performing in front of so many people was already making his stomach twist.

“Okay, we’ve got a few hours before the big reveal,” Angela continued. “The CEO and the journalists will be arriving at 9:30. After the CEO hits the red button to officially launch the game, you guys are up. You’ll enter through the doors and perform right after the big announcement. The crowd is going to go wild!”

Lily’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “That’s awesome! We’re going to knock them dead!”

Angela nodded. “That’s right. You two will make a great addition to the team. Now, get dressed, okay? You’ve got two hours before we go on. You’ll be entering the stage right after the CEO hits the button to officially launch the game. You’ll be part of the grand reveal.”

Steve was still trying to process everything. He hadn’t expected to be part of the performance, let alone to dance in front of an audience. “I’m not sure I’m ready for this…” he muttered, but Angela was already pulling them toward the dressing rooms.

“We don’t have time to be nervous,” Angela said with a grin. “Get in costume, get in the spirit. Trust me, you’ll be amazing.”

Lily squeezed Steve’s hand as they walked toward the dressing area. “You’ve got this, Steve. Just trust me, okay?”

The two of them entered the dressing room, where other cosplayers were already getting ready. There were vibrant costumes everywhere, from futuristic armor to high-fashion dresses. The Shining Kiky theme was reflected in every outfit—bold, glamorous, and ready for the spotlight.

The dressing room was buzzing with energy. Cosplayers were chatting excitedly, adjusting their costumes, and exchanging tips, but Steve couldn’t focus on any of it. His eyes darted around the room, trying to keep his calm, but it was hard when everything around him felt so foreign. He was used to being a guy, and yet here he was, about to change into a dress in a room full of women who, while all understanding he was a man, still saw him as just another girl in costume.

Lily had grinned at him, tugging him gently towards the changing area, her energy bubbling over. “Let’s get changed, Stephie,” she said with a teasing wink, completely at ease in this space, while Steve felt like every step was a new challenge.

He reluctantly walked toward the back of the dressing room, where a small changing area awaited him. The curtain was drawn for some privacy, but that didn’t make Steve feel any less exposed. He sighed, closing his eyes and trying to steady his breathing. 

Inside the changing area, a suitcase sat open, waiting for him. The gown was neatly folded inside, soft fabric shimmering under the faint light. The sight of it made his heart flutter. It was a Cinderella gown, and not just any gown—this one had layers of tulle, delicate embroidery, and accents of silver that twinkled like stars. He had never worn anything like it, and the idea of putting it on was both exciting and terrifying.

Steve hesitated for a moment, letting the weight of the situation sink in. He could still feel the weight of the women’s eyes on him, even though he couldn’t see them. He wasn’t sure what he expected—maybe some kind of mockery, or maybe just an awkward silence as they realized he was a guy. But that didn’t happen. He wasn’t sure if that made it easier or harder.

Taking a deep breath, Steve began to unpack the gown, unfolding it carefully. The fabric felt luxurious to his touch—smooth satin and soft lace, as if he was about to wear something far more delicate than he had ever experienced. He stared at it for a moment longer, completely caught up in the beauty of the dress. 

But then his eyes drifted down to the petticoat. A thick layer of white tulle, designed to give the gown that perfect, voluminous look. Steve had seen petticoats before, of course, but never up close. He had never had to wear one. It looked… complicated. A jumble of fabric, layers and layers of fluffy material that he knew he had to figure out if the gown was going to look right.

His fingers trembled as he picked it up, and he could already feel the heat rising in his face. This was it—the part where he would truly become Stephie, where he would no longer be hiding behind the illusion of a man wearing a dress but would fully embrace what he was about to do.

He stepped into the petticoat and struggled for a moment, trying to make sense of the tangled fabric. The layers of tulle felt strange against his skin, like a cloud of fabric surrounding him. He had been briefed by Maia earlier, but nothing could have prepared him for the experience. Steve fumbled with the waistband, adjusting it around his hips and trying to smooth the fabric out. The petticoat seemed to take on a life of its own, puffing out and making his movements feel slower, more deliberate. 

“Okay, focus,” Steve whispered to himself. He took a deep breath. “You’re not backing out. Just… just get it on. It’s just a dress. Just a petticoat. You’ve got this.”

After what felt like an eternity of adjusting and twisting, Steve managed to get the petticoat in place. It was uncomfortable at first, but it gave the gown the shape it needed to flow properly. He was surprised by how light it felt in comparison to the weight of his own thoughts. The soft, airy layers lifted the gown, making it feel like he was floating rather than wearing something.

Now, for the gown.

Steve hesitated again, feeling an unfamiliar tug in his chest. He had to admit, he was excited to see how he would look. The gown had a sparkle to it that he hadn’t noticed earlier, and the lace and satin glimmered in the changing room’s soft lighting. He held his breath as he slipped it over his head, the delicate fabric gliding over his skin. The gown felt cool against his skin, almost like it had been made just for him.

He stood in front of the mirror, his hands trembling slightly as he adjusted the gown’s fit. It was a perfect fit. The gown hugged his frame in all the right places, and as he spun around in front of the mirror, he marveled at the way the fabric swirled. It was breathtaking. 



Steve couldn't help it—he spun again, letting the dress twirl with him, feeling the weight of the petticoat billow around his legs. “Wow,” he whispered to himself, almost in awe of what he saw. “I look like a real princess. Is this really me?”

For a moment, he forgot the nerves, forgot the fear of stepping out of the changing room. He was lost in the reflection, marveling at how good the gown made him feel. It was almost like he had stepped into a different world. A world where he could be someone else, someone he had never dared to be before.

But just as he was about to admire his transformation a little longer, he heard Lily’s voice from outside the changing room. “Stephie, c’mon! We don’t have time!”

The urgency in her voice broke Steve out of his reverie, and he quickly straightened up, taking one last look at himself in the mirror. He looked stunning, no denying it. But now wasn’t the time to dwell on how pretty the dress was.

Taking a deep breath, Steve straightened his posture, adjusted the gown once more, and headed for the curtain. He was ready, despite his nerves, despite the whirlwind of emotions that had taken over him in the last few minutes.

Steve stepped out from behind the curtain, his heart still racing from the whirlwind of putting on the gown. He blinked in the sudden light of the dressing room, trying to adjust. His eyes immediately landed on Lily, who was already waiting for him.

She stood before him, dressed in a stunning yellow Belle gown from Beauty and the Beast. The soft yellow fabric clung to her in all the right places, and the layers of the skirt swirled elegantly as she moved. Her hair was perfectly styled, and her smile was wide and full of excitement.

"Wow," Steve said, his voice almost catching in his throat. "You look cute, Lily."

Lily’s grin widened as she twirled, the yellow gown billowing out with the motion. "And you’ll be even more cute," she teased, stepping closer to him. "C’mon, let me do some finishing touches."

Steve’s heart skipped a beat as Lily approached. He had expected to be done with his transformation, but now, in the presence of Lily's energy, he felt like he was just getting started. She moved with such confidence, already pulling out her makeup kit as she guided him gently to sit.

"Sit still, Stephie," she said with a wink, her fingers already reaching for the powder. She dabbed the brush into it and gently applied the powder to his face, smoothing it over his skin with careful, practiced motions. Steve watched her, unable to tear his eyes away from the way she worked. It was almost as though she had done this a million times before.

Lily’s touch was soft, almost tender, as she moved on to the blush. She swept the brush along his cheekbones, just the right amount of color. Then, she picked up the eyeliner, applying it with swift, precise strokes. Steve could hardly breathe as she worked—her hands were steady and sure, and she seemed so focused, so completely at ease with what she was doing.

Finally, she reached for the lipstick. It was a soft pink shade, perfect for the look. She carefully applied it to Steve’s lips, taking her time to make sure every detail was perfect. Steve felt a little nervous as she did, the closeness of it all making his heart race in a way he couldn’t quite explain.

"There," Lily said, stepping back to inspect her work. "Done!"

She pulled out a small hand mirror and held it up to Steve’s face. He looked into it and couldn’t help but smile. The transformation was complete, and the reflection staring back at him was something he could hardly believe was him. The soft, feminine makeup, the way the gown framed his figure—everything about it felt so right. The gown fit him perfectly, and Lily’s skill with makeup had made his features pop in a way he hadn’t expected. He couldn’t deny it—he looked cute, and it felt incredible.

"Wow, Lily," Steve said softly, still admiring himself. "It’s perfect. You did an amazing job."

Lily beamed, clearly proud of her work. "I told you, didn’t I? You look beautiful, Stephie."

Steve blinked, his smile faltering for a second. His mind wandered, as it often did, to Mitch. He could already hear Mitch’s voice in his head, saying how cute he looked. Mitch always had a way of making Steve feel special, even when he wasn’t sure what Mitch truly felt. The thought of Mitch’s words brought a rush of warmth to his chest, but something inside Steve froze. 

"Wait… what am I thinking?" Steve muttered under his breath, shaking his head. "Why am I always thinking about Mitch?"

Lily, who had been packing up her makeup kit, didn’t notice his internal turmoil. She just flashed him another smile and said, "Let’s go, Stephie. It’s showtime!"

Lily carefully packed up her makeup tools into her suitcase, neatly placing each item in its designated spot. Her fingers moved swiftly, an expert at organizing the array of brushes, powders, and palettes. Steve sat still, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on him. He looked at his reflection in the mirror one last time, adjusting the delicate lace of the gown. He felt… different, but in a good way. 

As Lily closed the suitcase, Steve took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves. His heart was racing, his mind swirling with emotions he had never fully processed. He needed to say something. It had been building up for days, for weeks. His feelings for Mitch, the confusion, and the truth he hadn’t admitted to himself—he couldn't keep it bottled up any longer.

"Lily," Steve began, his voice shaky, "I want to talk about something."

Lily, distracted as she tidied up the remaining makeup tools, barely looked up from her suitcase. "What’s up, Stephie?" she asked, her voice light and unconcerned as she folded a makeup wipe and stuffed it in the case.

Steve hesitated. His throat tightened as he tried to find the right words. He needed to tell her. He needed to admit what he had been feeling, but as his lips parted to speak, he felt the weight of his hesitation. 

"Lily, actually… I—" 

Before he could finish his sentence, the door to the dressing room suddenly opened, and a girl from the event staff poked her head in. "Angela’s team performance, please be ready for the last briefing," she announced, her tone brisk.

Steve’s words faltered in his throat. The timing couldn’t have been worse. He felt his chance slip away as the girl stepped back, the door shutting softly behind her.

Lily, oblivious to the internal battle Steve was fighting, flashed him a quick smile. "C’mon, Stephie, we don’t have time to chat," she said, her tone light and cheerful as she grabbed her own bag. "We’re about to go on stage."

Steve stared at her for a moment, his chest tightening with frustration. He had wanted to say it, to be honest with her. But now, the moment had passed. He let out a long sigh, standing up as Lily took his hand and pulled him gently toward the door.

"Let’s go, okay? We’ll talk later," she said, her smile reassuring. "Right now, we have a performance to do."

But Steve couldn't shake the feeling that something important had just been left unsaid. He wasn’t sure what to do with the whirlwind of emotions still buzzing inside him. But for now, he followed Lily, knowing that whatever he was feeling would have to wait.

Backstage, the air was buzzing with excitement as the performers prepped for the big moment. Steve stood beside Lily, feeling an odd mix of nerves and anticipation. It was a strange sensation—being in his Cinderella gown, but somehow, it felt more and more like his new reality. 

As they waited for the briefing to start, they were joined by a few familiar faces—Evelyn, William, Mitch, and Luke. Mitch stood tall in his Prince Kit costume, his broad muscular chest filling out the tailored suit perfectly. He looked so manly, so confident. Steve couldn’t help but admire him from where he stood. 

It must be so comfy if I could just lay my head on his chest, Steve thought, before shaking himself out of the daydream. 

Mitch caught sight of Steve and paused for a moment, a faint blush coloring his cheeks as he looked at Steve in the Cinderella gown. “Hi, Stephie… you look cute,” Mitch said, his voice soft but sincere. 

Steve felt his face flush with heat. "Th-thank you… you too, Mitch," he stammered, his heart skipping a beat. The compliment sent a wave of warmth through him, making him feel both giddy and shy.

Lily, who had been chatting with Evelyn, rolled her eyes playfully. "Save the lovey-dovey talk for later, you two," she said with a grin. "We need to hear the brief from the EO."

The group turned to head toward the stage as the event organizer (EO) began to speak. 

"Alright, everyone," the EO said, adjusting the microphone. "We’ll be performing a ballroom dance to a medley of songs. First, Evelyn and Luke will enter the ballroom to 'Once Upon a Dream.' Then, Lily and William will follow with 'Tale as Old as Time.' Finally, Steve and Mitch will enter with 'A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes.' Lily and Evelyn, you’ll be acting as backup dancers for the last act."

Steve barely heard the EO’s instructions. His mind was elsewhere—caught up in thinking about how he would manage the dance with Mitch. Okay, after the third step, should I twirl or hold Mitch’s arm? His thoughts were racing, and the more he thought about it, the more nervous he became. His heart was pounding as he tried to mentally rehearse the moves.

But before he could spiral any further into his anxiety, Mitch stepped closer to him and gently took Steve’s hand in his own. The touch was warm and reassuring. Mitch’s voice was soft but confident. 

“Take it easy, Steve,” Mitch said, his smile easy and comforting. “Just like we practiced, alright?”

Steve’s breath caught in his throat. He felt the heat rise to his face again. "Eh… okay," Steve muttered, barely able to look Mitch in the eyes as he nodded.

Steve stood backstage, his heart pounding in his chest. The adrenaline coursed through his veins, making his hands feel clammy. He was lined up with Lily and Evelyn, their bodies ready and waiting for their turn. The stage was just a few steps away, but it felt like an eternity.

He tried to steady his breath, but it was nearly impossible. Focus, Steve, he thought. He glanced over at Lily, her face calm and determined as always. She was ready, as always. Evelyn, too, looked poised in her elegant gown, the soft fabric shimmering under the backstage lights.

Then, a siren sounded in the distance, a signal that the CEO had begun the game’s grand launch. Steve’s heart raced even faster. That’s it, he thought. Our turn will come soon.

Suddenly, a girl from the EO team appeared, her voice sharp and commanding. "Come on, it’s your turn," she said, signaling Evelyn to step forward.

Evelyn didn’t hesitate. With a graceful nod, she stepped into the spotlight, the crowd’s energy amplifying with every step she took. Steve couldn’t see her from backstage, but he could hear the music shift into "Once Upon a Dream."

The soft, enchanting melody filled the air, and for a moment, Steve closed his eyes, imagining the scene from the Disney cartoon where Princess Aurora dances with the owl. Evelyn would look just as graceful, he thought. She must be so cute out there, dancing with such elegance.

The music continued to play, and Steve found himself lost in the melody, picturing every movement with ease. I can do this. We can do this, he tried to convince himself.

Then, the music shifted again, and Steve knew it was time for Lily. Tale as Old as Time began to play, and he heard the soft rustling of her gown as she stepped onto the stage, joined by William. The connection between them, their chemistry on stage, was effortless.

Lily’s going to do great. She always does, Steve thought, feeling a surge of pride for his friend. I can’t ruin her performance.

As the song continued, Steve’s heart raced once more, but this time, it wasn’t just nerves—it was something else. He turned to Mitch, who was standing beside him, waiting for his cue.

Mitch smiled at him, his eyes glimmering with warmth and assurance. “Ready, Stephie?” he asked, his voice smooth and gentle, just like in Steve’s dreams.

For a brief second, Steve was transported. He could almost hear Mitch’s voice from the dreams he’d had in the church—the day they’d gotten married. Ready, Stephie? The words echoed in his mind, and the memory flooded him with warmth, making him blush.

Steve blinked, shaken out of the dream-like moment. Get it together, Steve, he told himself. He swallowed hard and met Mitch’s eyes. 

"Yes… anytime," Steve said, his voice barely above a whisper, his heart pounding harder than ever.

Mitch gave him a reassuring nod, his hand gently brushing Steve’s as he guided him toward the stage. 

The music shifted, and suddenly the sweet strains of Cinderella’s iconic song filled the air. Steve and Mitch stepped out onto the stage, hand in hand, and Steve's breath caught in his throat. He blinked, taking in the sight of the vast audience before them. The spotlight was blinding, and he could feel the weight of all those eyes on him.

He glanced briefly to the side, where Lily and Evelyn were waiting, ready for their part in the performance. Their expressions were full of support and excitement, but all Steve could focus on was the sheer magnitude of the moment. His heart pounded, his palms grew clammy, and his mind raced with doubt. What if I mess up? What if I fall? What if they think I’m out of place?

Mitch squeezed his hand gently, sensing the tension in Steve’s body. He leaned in, whispering low so only Steve could hear. "Don’t worry, everything will be okay. Don’t look at the audience—just keep your eyes on me." Mitch’s voice was calm and reassuring, the kind of steady presence Steve needed in this moment.

Steve nodded, trying to focus on Mitch, his breathing slowing a little. Mitch’s smile was warm, genuine, and full of quiet confidence. “You look amazing,” Mitch added, his words filled with admiration.

The compliment sent a rush of warmth through Steve’s chest, and once again, he was reminded of the dream he had—the one where Mitch had spoken those very words to him in the church, right before they had gotten married. His cheeks flushed with heat at the thought. Why does this always happen when Mitch speaks to me?

But before Steve could lose himself in the moment, the music suddenly stopped. The dramatic pause made Steve’s heart leap, and the lights flickered for a brief second before shifting to a new, sweeping melody. The opening notes of La Valse de l’Amour played, the romantic song where Cinderella dances with Prince Kit. 

Steve's body swayed instinctively to the rhythm, and Mitch’s hand slid onto his hip, guiding him as they began to move across the stage. The dance had a natural flow to it, like a delicate waltz, and Steve felt himself becoming more at ease as the music enveloped him.



"Everyone’s looking at us," Steve muttered, his nerves creeping back as he caught a glimpse of the crowd in the dimmed lights. His voice wavered with uncertainty.

Mitch, ever calm, tightened his grip on Steve’s waist, his other hand lifting Steve’s to the perfect position for the dance. "Believe me, they’re looking at you," Mitch said with a reassuring smile.

The warmth of Mitch’s words wrapped around Steve, making him feel more confident, more sure of his place in this dance, in this moment. Slowly, Steve let go of his fears and focused on Mitch’s steady presence, on the softness of his touch, and on the music that swirled around them both.

For the first time that night, Steve felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be.

As Steve and Mitch glided across the stage, each step felt like floating. The music was soft, guiding them through the motions as if they were the only two in the room. Steve's heart was pounding with every beat, his breath catching each time Mitch’s hand brushed his waist or their eyes met. This is just a dance, he reminded himself, trying to calm the excitement swirling in his chest. It’s just a performance for the crowd…

But it didn’t feel that way. It felt like something more, something he had been afraid to even admit to himself.

Mitch’s eyes held his, a warm, steady gaze that seemed to melt away the rest of the world. Does he feel this, too? Steve wondered, his pulse quickening at the thought. Mitch’s hand was firm on his waist, guiding him, keeping him steady even as his mind raced with a mix of fear and hope. He’d never been this close to someone like this—never felt this kind of certainty, and yet, this overwhelming nervousness.

They spun, their movements fluid and graceful, and as they swirled together, Steve felt himself drawn deeper into Mitch's presence. His heart was pounding harder, and he realized he didn't care if anyone was watching. Right now, this moment was just for them. The lights, the music, the stage—it all faded into the background. It was as if they were alone in a private world, a world where he didn’t have to hide how he felt.

This can’t be real, Steve thought, feeling Mitch’s hand tighten slightly on his waist as they turned. But it feels like everything I’ve wanted, like everything I’ve been too scared to admit.

He found himself lost in Mitch's eyes, forgetting the audience, forgetting the steps, forgetting the world. It was only the two of them, and Steve didn’t want it to end. He could feel the warmth of Mitch’s hand through the thin fabric of his gown, the gentle strength that made him feel safe and, in a way, cherished.

And then, as the music slowed, he realized they were nearing the end of the dance. Mitch brought him into a slow, graceful dip, and Steve’s heart raced as he felt Mitch’s arm supporting him. Steve looked up, face flushed, completely caught in Mitch’s gaze, his cheeks warm under the stage lights. He could feel his face turning red as he stayed there, suspended, with Mitch looking down at him, a soft smile in his eyes.

I can’t keep this to myself, Steve thought. Not anymore.

As Mitch pulled him back up, bringing him close, Steve felt a surge of courage rise within him. His heart was racing, his breath shaky, but he knew he had to do it. Before he could second-guess himself, Steve leaned in, his eyes fluttering closed, and kissed Mitch.



In that instant, the world truly did disappear. There was no audience, no stage, no performance—just the two of them, connected in a way Steve had only dreamed of. His heart was pounding, his mind was reeling, but he didn’t want to stop. He didn’t care about anything else in the world at that moment except for Mitch, and the quiet thrill of finally showing what he felt.

The kiss lasted only a few seconds, but to Steve, it felt like a lifetime. When he finally pulled back, his face was hot, his cheeks bright pink, and he realized with a jolt that the crowd hadn’t gone anywhere. In fact, they were cheering—shouting, clapping, and whistling loudly.

He glanced at Mitch, half-embarrassed and half in awe, and saw the same warmth in Mitch’s gaze. Mitch’s face was flushed, but he was smiling, not letting go of Steve’s hand. There was no judgment, no hesitation—only that same gentle assurance.

The audience’s cheers washed over them, but Steve didn’t feel embarrassed anymore. For the first time, he felt like he could be honest, like he didn’t have to hide. And in Mitch’s steady presence, he knew he’d made the right choice.

As Steve and Mitch walked offstage, the cheers and applause still echoed behind them. Steve’s heart was racing, his face still warm from the kiss they’d shared, and he barely knew where to look as they made their way backstage. The rush of the moment lingered, but now that the performance was over, reality began to settle in.

The Event Organizer (EO) met them with a broad smile, her eyes shining. "That was amazing! Thank you, everyone—you gave such a beautiful performance!" she said, clapping her hands. Then she turned to Steve and Mitch specifically, beaming. "And Stephie, Mitch—wow! Thank you for that unexpected, romantic twist! It added so much to the show."

Steve felt his face burn at her words, and he could only manage a small, nervous smile. He hadn’t planned any of it; he still didn’t quite understand what had possessed him to lean in, to kiss Mitch in front of everyone. Now he was left wondering if it had all been a mistake.

As the EO walked off, he glanced over at Mitch, who was also a little red, avoiding his gaze. Is he mad? Was it too much? Steve’s mind raced. Maybe Mitch is upset. He could be straight, for all I know… What if I just ruined everything?

The rush of doubts crept in like a tidal wave, and Steve’s heart felt heavy. He thought about saying something, maybe apologizing, but his words seemed stuck in his throat. He dropped his gaze, feeling his nerves twist and tighten. Stupid me, he thought bitterly. I had to go and make things weird.

Unable to stand the tension building in his chest, Steve finally looked over at Mitch and asked in a quiet, almost trembling voice, “Are… are you angry with me?”

Mitch stopped, clearly surprised, and met Steve’s eyes. “Angry? Why would I be angry with you?”

Steve hesitated, feeling his cheeks warm up. His voice was barely a whisper. “For… for the kiss on stage. I know it came out of nowhere. I’m sorry if I overstepped or made things awkward.”

Mitch’s face softened, and there was a faint blush coloring his cheeks. “I’m not angry,” he replied gently. “It… it did catch me off guard, but it’s not something I’m upset about. Besides,” he added, his voice dropping, “it was… just part of the performance, right?”

Steve’s heart sank a little at that, but he took a shaky breath, summoning all his courage. If I don’t say it now, I may never get another chance, he thought. He knew he couldn’t keep hiding his feelings. 

“Mitch,” he began, his voice quiet but steady, “I don’t know how you feel about this, but… I need you to know that ever since we first met, I’ve admired you. When you helped me through that last event, and then all those times we practiced dancing together… well, I couldn’t ignore it anymore. I think… I think I love you.”

Mitch’s eyes widened, and he looked genuinely surprised. His face turned a deeper shade of red, and he paused as if taking in Steve’s words, processing them. For a moment, Steve’s heart plummeted, and he feared he’d gone too far, said too much.

But then Mitch took a small step closer, his voice dropping to a warm, soft tone. “Steve,” he said slowly, “I… I didn’t expect this. But… I’ve felt something too. Even though you’re a guy, I guess I’ve always seen you as… well, as someone special.” He laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “Maybe it sounds strange, but I always think of you as Stephie—a cute little girl, in my eyes.”

Steve’s heart soared, a wide smile spreading across his face. Before he could respond, Mitch suddenly wrapped his arms around him, pulling him close. Steve melted into the embrace, feeling the warmth and strength in Mitch’s arms. It felt safe, natural—everything he had hoped for.

Slowly, Steve looked up into Mitch’s eyes, his heart racing faster than ever. Their faces were so close, just inches apart. Before he could think or second-guess himself, he leaned in, closing the gap between them in a soft, lingering kiss. Mitch returned it, his hand moving gently to rest on Steve’s back as they held each other, lost in the moment. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them, sharing a quiet, heartfelt confession in the silence of the backstage.

When they finally pulled back, Steve’s cheeks were flushed, and he couldn’t help but laugh softly. “I… I didn’t think you’d feel the same.”

Mitch chuckled, looking a bit shy but happier than Steve had ever seen him. “Neither did I,” he murmured. Then, with a playful smile, he added, “But here we are.”

For the first time, Steve felt truly seen, embraced, and cared for. Whatever lay ahead, he knew he could face it—so long as he had Mitch by his side.

As Steve pulled away from Mitch, a small, nervous laugh escaped him. He glanced over at the others, but he immediately noticed something off. Both Lily and Evelyn were staring at him and Mitch, looking utterly stunned. Evelyn seemed lost in thought, her mouth slightly open as if she wanted to say something but couldn’t find the words. Lily, on the other hand, looked almost… hurt.

Suddenly, Lily cleared her throat, breaking the silence. “I… I’ll go change,” she muttered, her voice unusually quiet. Without waiting for anyone’s response, she turned and quickly walked away, her gaze averted. Steve watched her go, his heart sinking in confusion.

Evelyn stepped closer to him, her expression softer but still serious. “Steve,” she said gently, “I know you and Lily have been… close. Maybe you should go talk to her.”

Steve nodded, feeling a pang of guilt in his chest. He hadn’t meant to hurt Lily, but he realized now that his feelings for Mitch might have affected her more than he’d understood. Without another word, he turned and headed toward the girls' changing room.

He paused outside the door, feeling the awkwardness of the situation. Normally, he wouldn’t even consider entering, but given his outfit, he knew it would only draw more attention if he used the men’s room. Taking a deep breath, he stepped inside. 

The room was empty except for Lily, who was standing by her station, staring into the mirror as she took off her costume jewelry. She noticed Steve’s reflection in the mirror and turned around slowly, her face unreadable.

“Lily…” Steve started, struggling to find the right words. “Are you… okay?”

She forced a small smile but didn’t quite meet his gaze. “I’m fine, Stephie,” she replied softly. “I just didn’t expect… I didn’t think I’d see that.”

Steve bit his lip, taking a cautious step forward. “I’m sorry, Lily. I didn’t mean for this to happen like this. I never wanted to hurt you.”

She sighed, her expression softening a bit. “I know, Steve. I guess I just… thought things were different between us.”

Steve took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts as he looked at Lily’s reflection in the mirror. “Lily, I… I need to tell you something,” he started, his voice shaking slightly. “I’ve always wanted to be honest with you. Going out with you has made me so happy, truly. But… I can’t lie to myself—or to you—any longer.”

Lily turned to face him, listening intently, though there was a trace of sadness in her eyes.

“My heart… it’s drawn to Mitch,” he admitted, struggling with his words. “I didn’t even realize it until recently. I never thought of myself as…, gay. But being with him, I felt something I didn’t expect, something I can’t ignore. I’m so sorry, Lily. I never wanted to hurt you, but… I can’t continue our relationship like this.”

Lily’s face softened, and she gave a small, understanding nod. “I… I get it, Steve. Funny enough, I was going to talk to you too.” She hesitated, then added, “When I was practicing with William… I noticed things in him that I never quite saw in you. He has this… this strength, a kind of manly quality that just drew me in. And honestly? When I see you as Stephie, I sometimes see you as a girl.”

Steve managed a small, bittersweet smile, relieved that she understood. “So… you and William?”

Lily nodded, her cheeks flushing. “Yeah. I wanted to tell you, but I didn’t want to hurt you either. We were together first, and I didn’t want to betray that.”

They stood in silence for a moment, both processing the unexpected turn of events. Then, Lily smiled, reaching out to hold Steve’s hand. “Thank you for being honest with me, Steve. I think we both just needed to find ourselves a little more.”

Steve smiled back, feeling a weight lift from his heart. “Thank you, Lily. You’ll always be someone special to me.”

Steve took a deep breath, looking at Lily with a hopeful smile. “So… can we just be friends?”

Lily’s face softened, and she broke into a warm smile. “Of course, Stephie. We can always be friends… or should I say, besties?”

They looked at each other and, for a moment, all the tension and uncertainty faded away. Then, they both burst into giggles, laughing at the unexpected but welcome turn in their relationship.

“Besties,” Steve repeated, feeling a lightness in his heart he hadn’t felt in ages.

….

It was Monday morning, and Lily was already absorbed in her work, her desk scattered with files and notes. The usual chatter of the office hummed around her as she focused on the report she needed to finish. Her phone buzzed, breaking her concentration. She glanced at it and saw a message from William.

"Next week, it’s my turn to pick the date spot. Love you, honey."

A smile spread across her face as she replied, "Love you too xxx." Setting her phone aside, she returned to her work, feeling a quiet joy.

A soft tap on her shoulder pulled her from her thoughts. She turned around and, to her shock, found herself looking at a familiar face… but with a twist. There stood Steve—dressed in a feminine office outfit, complete with a fitted blazer, a pastel blouse, and a pencil skirt that showed off his long legs. His hair was styled neatly, and he even wore subtle makeup that softened his features.



“Hi, Lily…” Steve, now Stephie, said shyly, giving a small wave with a nervous smile.

Lily’s mouth dropped open. “Oh my god, Steve—what are you doing?”

Stephie took a deep breath, clearly gathering her courage. “I’m… just being me,” she replied, her voice steady but soft. “I want to be my real self, Lily. I want to stop hiding.”

Before Lily could respond, a quiet buzz had started around them as coworkers began to notice the new “girl” by her desk. Heads turned, and whispered conversations sparked in every corner. People exchanged glances, trying to make sense of what they were seeing. The whispers grew as more people realized this cute, confident “woman” was actually Steve.

Lily noticed the crowd gathering and stepped up, her voice carrying a reassuring calm. “Alright, everyone!” She held her hands up, smiling at the curious onlookers. “It’s not a show. This is Steve and now we will be call her Stephanie,” she said, nodding to her friend with pride. “She’s part of our team, just as always, and she deserves the same respect.”

The room went quiet, and for a moment, Stephie worried that people might not accept her choice. But gradually, small, warm smiles started to appear on her coworkers' faces. A few nodded, some murmured to each other in surprise, and then someone in the back called out, “Looking great, Stephanie!”

With that small show of support, the tension melted away, and the group dispersed, people giving Stephie approving glances and even a few thumbs up. 

Lily turned to Stephie with a proud smile. “See? They’re coming around already. You’re braver than you know, Stephie.”

Stephie’s cheeks flushed, her heart pounding, but she felt a rush of happiness and relief. “Thank you, Lily. I couldn’t have done this without you.”

As the day unfolded, Stephie found herself settling into her new role with surprising ease. She got used to the occasional curious glances, the supportive smiles from familiar faces, and the gentle affirmations from coworkers who stopped by to say a kind word.

Later in the afternoon, Stephie returned to her desk to find a little sticky note with a simple message: “Proud of you!” She turned to see Lily giving her a thumbs-up and a bright, encouraging smile.

The workday wound down, and as people began gathering their things to leave, Stephie felt an overwhelming sense of relief and happiness. She knew this was just the beginning of her journey, but with each step, she felt more herself, more at home.

Lily stopped by her desk, grabbing her bag. “Ready to go, bestie?”

Stephie smiled, standing up. “Absolutely. And thank you, Lily. For everything—you have no idea how much this means to me.”

They walked out of the building together, chatting about work and laughing about small moments from the day. As they stepped outside, Lily glanced at her, a playful look in her eyes.

“So,” she began, nudging Stephie’s arm, “how did your date with Mitch go? I want details!”

Stephie blushed, but a smile tugged at her lips. “Oh, well… it was amazing. I was so nervous at first, but he’s just… wonderful.” She paused, her voice softening. “He really made me feel special.”

Lily’s eyes sparkled. “I’m so happy for you, Stephie! You both looked so perfect at the event. It’s like you were meant to be together.”

Stephie laughed, her cheeks turning pink. “Thank you, Lily. I… I think this could be something real.”

Lily wrapped her arm around Stephie’s shoulders as they walked down the street. “Then I’m officially the biggest fan of Team Stephie and Mitch.”

The two of them burst into laughter, their bond even stronger, ready to embrace whatever the future held—together.

Though it had been hard at first, over time, Steve had found a new, unexpected confidence in his life as Stephie. Each day she walked into the office in her skirts and blouses, feeling more comfortable, more herself. Her once-hidden smile now appeared often, bright and genuine. She felt lighter, her nerves transforming into excitement as she embraced her true self.

And through it all, Lily had been her rock. From sharing fashion tips to offering support during awkward moments, she was always there with a reassuring smile and a friendly arm to lean on. Their friendship had only grown deeper and more meaningful, becoming a source of strength for them both.

One afternoon, as they were grabbing coffee together, Lily raised her cup with a warm smile. “To my best friend, Stephanie. May you always be my Crossdress-up Darling.”



Stephie laughed, clinking her cup with Lily’s. “And may you always be by my side, cheering me on.”

With that, they sipped their drinks, both knowing that they had each other’s backs—through every high heel, every dress, and every new chapter. And Stephie knew that as long as she had friends like Lily, she’d be able to face anything with confidence.