《The Witch's Ichor》


 Esmareldas Emporium [1]

    Chilling winds sap the warmth from Ryker''s clothes as he follows his friends to the far side of town. The full moon reflects an unseen sun, illuminating the gravel road and surrounding forest. Ryker zips up the top half of his jacket while glancing over his shoulder.


    "This place is fucking creepy..." Ryker grumbles.


    "What, you too chicken to walk through a forest now?" Derek taunts him.


    The snort of amusement from everyone but Ryker is quickly drowned out by the distant howl of a wolf. The quartet stays quiet in the wake of the interruption. Derek breaks the silence a couple minutes later by clearing his throat.


    "...Yeah alright, this is pretty creepy." Derek admits.


    Ryker''s lips curve up into a slight grin as the group resumes their trek. The sounds of gravel crunching underfoot is interspersed with the calls of animals in the forest. The lights of the town they call home fade from sight.


    "Shouldn''t we have found it by now?" Theo asks uncertainly.


    Jamison''s dark eyes flit from his friends to the road ahead. The tall boy towers over his friends, standing at nearly six and a half feet tall. He lets out a low chuckle, pointing toward a purple light between the trees ahead.


    "You mean that shop?" Jamison says confidently.


    Theo goes quiet as the eerie cart comes into view. Violet lanterns illuminate the surrounding trees. The purple lanterns sway in the autumn breeze like corpses from gallows. There''s a distinct lack of horses to draw the carriage.


    "Holy shit, that''s freaky!" Derek laughs.


    Derek''s expression is a mixture of surprise and excitement. The solidly built boy stands at roughly six feet, and is the most athletic of the quartet by far. Derek suddenly takes off into a sprint, hollering over his shoulder without stopping. The wind makes both his shorts and tank top flutter wildly.


    "Last one there''s a pussy!"


    Like a gunshot at a horserace, this propels both Jamison and Ryker into a sprint. Theo is quick to follow their lead. The forest is filled with the sounds of their footfalls and whooping calls. The chilly breeze is forgotten as their blood pumps hotly from the exertion.


    Derek manages to win the impromptu race with ease whilst Jamison comes up as a close second. Derek raises a hand to meet Jamison for a high five. Jamison wears a thin smile on his face; Derek is jogging in place with a smirk of his own.


    "Guess who''s the pussy!" Derek announces.


    Ryker shakes his head in exasperation as he arrives shortly before Theo. Derek is busy doing a mock drumroll with his hands while Theo struggles to catch his breath.


    "It''s Theodore!" Derek finishes.


    "Ha... fuck you too, Derek." Theo replies breathlessly.


    Theo pushes his square glasses up the bridge of his nose before dusting his jeans off. The bespectacled boy is the weakest and thinnest, coming in at just five and a half feet tall. Jamison turns his head in the direction of the nearby carriage. The warm atmosphere quickly fades in the face of the violet lantern light.


    "Come on guys... let''s check it out." Derek says in a tone that betrays his nervousness.


    Derek''s usual gusto is dampened as he approaches the ominous cart. His flip flops slap the gravel, staving off the uncomfortable quiet of the night. He gives the door handle a gentle pull. It swings open with an eerie creak, casting purple light onto the gravel road.


    "H-Here we go..." Derek mumbles.


    Ryker is at the back of the pack. He soaks in the sight of the mysterious carriage. Carved words adorn the side of the cart:Esmarelda''s Emporium.Ryker nearly jumps out of his skin when an owl hoots softly from the trees.


    "You coming?" Theo asks from the open door.


    "Y-Yeah, of course." Ryker replies.


    Ryker follows Theo inside. Wooden shelves divide the interior into a maze of merchandise. Several candles burn with purple flames which cast eerie violet light. Scents of incense and freshly dug dirt mingle in Ryker''s nose.


    This is way too creepy.


    An odd statuette carved from ash grey wood catches Ryker''s eye. He picks it up off a dusty shelf, inspecting the seemingly nonsensical carving. It simultaneously reminds him of a person''s face and a knot of wood grown on a tree. It makes his head hurt to look at, so he sets it back down on the shelf.


    "What the fuck... is this real?" Derek mutters.


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    Derek is grasping a monkey''s mummified paw. The thing looks old as dirt, yet has intact nails. The paw twitches as if alive. Derek wordlessly places the paw back on the shelf in front of him whilst wiping his hands on his shorts.


    "I-I think I''m ready to bail." Derek says quietly.


    Ryker nods as Derek stares fearfully at the now motionless monkey''s paw. Jamison and Theo didn''t witness any of that, so they continue perusing the shelves. Theo is actually crouched low with a necklace of bones in his hands. He looks over to Derek and Ryker with a curious expression. Neither of them say anything.


    "Hah. And I thought I was the coward-" Theo starts.


    The bone necklace is no longer in Theo''s hands. His eyes widen and he glances back at the empty shelf before looking down to see it''s already on his neck. With shaking hands, Theo takes off the bone necklace and places it onto the shelf where he got it.


    "This was a bad idea, Jamison!" Theo admonishes.


    Jamison isn''t there. Ryker and Derek are close to the door, and Theo is just to the side. They all look at one another before inching further into the carriage in search of their unspoken leader.


    "J-Jamison?" Derek says quietly.


    They turn the corner to see Jamison carefully inspecting a glass bottle full of clear fluid. He''s trying to read the bottle''s faded label, but the violet lanterns aren''t helping much. Derek grabs Jamison''s shoulder.


    "Dude, we need to leave... this place is fucked." Derek insists quietly.


    Jamison gives Derek a questioning look before rolling his eyes at how on edge his three friends are. The glass bottle in his hand isn''t exactly setting off his danger sense.


    "Can''t we at least buy something first?" Jamison replies casually.


    Derek gives Jamison an exasperated look before giving up. Derek keeps glancing over at the unattended counter, but Ryker can''t contain his curiosity. There''s a glass bottle shaped like a teardrop. It''s filled with a black inky fluid that makes Ryker''s stomach turn. The label is partially legible.


    "Witch''s brew... Something about the ideal body... And the moon?" Ryker reads.


    Theo is still on edge, but his curiosity wins out when he sees a realistic sculpture of a hand comprised of solid gold. Ryker watches Theo nearly grab the item off the shelf, but Theo thinks better of it. He looks for the price tag.


    "Wait... How much does any of this cost..?" Theo wonders aloud.


    The four of them all stiffen up when an unfamiliar voice answers Theo''s question; The words resemble the harsh squawking of a crow.


    "My merchandise bears no price, for the consequences do suffice."


    Four pairs of eyes lock onto the source of the voice instantly. Behind the counter sits an uncanny caricature of a witch. The hunched hag is covered by ripped black and brown rags. Her oddly shaped face resembles a child''s sloppy crayon drawing. Black and yellow crooked teeth line the woman''s swollen red gums. Her beady eyes like oil pooling in the valleys of a wrinkled desert. The disturbing woman''s outfit is completed by a tall crooked black hat.


    "You may choose a single thing, but heed what it may bring."


    Jamison''s expression finally falls at the sight of the Emporium''s owner, and the glass bottle slips from his hands. The sound of the bottle shattering on the floor of the carriage sends the boys scattering like cockroaches. Theo is the first out of there with a conspicuous stain on his jeans. Derek practically runs over Theo when he sprints away. Jamison ducks his head through the low doorframe as he makes his escape. Ryker hears Jamison call for him on his way out.


    "Come on!"


    Ryker snaps out of his fugue and follows Jamison out of the cart. He clutches the glass bottle in one hand. The four of them don''t slow their pace until they get to the edge of the forest. The yellow glow of streetlights and sound of traffic calms their tensed nerves. They catch their breath until Derek breaks the silence.


    "Holy fuck... Haha!" Derek laughs hoarsely.


    Jamison keeps glancing over his shoulder at the tree line. Derek is slapping his knee while laughing his head off. Theo is sitting down on the asphalt while wiping away his tears. Ryker is staring at the glass bottle in his hands.


    Derek''s laughter subsides after a minute or two, and Ryker''s focused gaze draws him closer. The teardrop shaped vessel is the only item they managed to take before booking it back to town. Seeing the dark oily fluid in the bottle brings a wicked grin to Derek''s face.


    "You gonna drink it?" Derek asks.


    "What?! No!" Ryker refuses quickly.


    "Oh come on, I dare you." Derek goads him.


    Ryker swallows the lump in his throat as he stares down at the bottle in his hands. The stuff really does look like ink. Jamison puts a hand on Ryker''s shoulder, giving him a smirk.


    "I double dog dare you." Jamison says with a low chuckle.


    Ryker glances between his two buddies before letting out a groan of frustration. These two could be so immature when they agreed on something. Ryker gives the bottle another disgusted glance before carefully uncorking it. There''s no scent as he raises the bottle to his face.


    "Alright, but you two fuckers are responsible if this kills me." Ryker warns sternly.


    "Yeah yeah, just do it already!" Derek urges him.


    With one last deep breath Ryker tilts the bottle of inky fluid up. The stuff flows like water between his lips, bathing his tongue in flavorless black mystery juice. Ryker is pleasantly surprised by the lack of flavor and texture as he tilts his head back.


    "Chug! Chug! Chug!" Derek encourages him.


    "He''s actually fucking drinking it..." Theo mumbles bitterly.


    Ryker finishes the entire bottle without issue, and lets out a burp. He covers his mouth in mild embarrassment. Jamison and Derek both slap him on the back as a means of congratulations-which elicits another loud belch from Ryker.


    "I can''t believe you did that! Fucking awesome!" Derek says enthusiastically.


    "Truly metal." Jamison adds with a respectful nod.


    Ryker moves his tongue around his own mouth a little before shrugging his shoulders casually.


    "It wasn''t that bad, actually. Think I''ll get magic powers or something?" Ryker jokes.


    The three of them laugh a bit at the thought before growing quiet and contemplating the actual possibility of that potion doing something supernatural. Seeing supernatural nonsense happen right in front of you shakes up your perception of reality.


    "I don''t know about you guys, but I''ve had enough of this freaky shit for today." Theo cuts in.


    Theo looks absolutely horrible, a clear piss stain on his jeans and sweat staining his shirt. He kicks some gravel under his sneaker while walking off toward the nearby suburbs. His three friends cringe at the pathetic sight.


    "I''m going home... Fuck this..." Theo grumbles irritably.


    Jamison jogs up to Theo with Derek lagging behind. Ryker clenches his fist, looking at his own hands and realizing the glass bottle is missing. He shivers at the realization before moving to catch up to his friends.


    An owl swivels its head to watch the four boys return to the comfort of civilization. It lets out a soft hoot as the full moon frames it, and then it vanishes.

 Unexpected Side Effects [2]

    Birdsong, sunlight, and the smell of pancakes rouse Ryker from his slumber. Soft sheets and a heavy blanket hold Ryker in a gentle embrace. Yawning, he turns his body over to nuzzle his pillow. A sharp ache in his chest startles him.


    What the..?


    Ryker sits up in his bed with a bemused look on his face. He pulls the covers down to expose his chest. Two noticeable bumps capped with distinctly puffy nipples come into view. Those are undeniably, boobs.


    "What the fuck?" Ryker mutters in shock.


    The vestiges of sleep clear away in an instant as Ryker climbs out of bed. He looks down at his body, hesitantly poking and prodding as his face pales. Everything feels a little strange now that Ryker''s paying attention, but only his new breasts are obvious.


    "Ryker! Are you up?" Ryker''s mother yells from downstairs.


    The sound of his mother''s footsteps fill Ryker with icy dread. He grabs his blanket from the bed and pulls it over himself, draping the fabric over his body to shield the two bumps of flesh from his mother''s gaze. The door opens after a quick knock. His mother peers into the room.


    "Oh, you''re up. Breakfast is ready so hurry down." She says gently.


    Ryker relaxes as he watches his mother shut the door. Crisis averted. His tummy grumbles as if having heard his mother''s words. He gets up and quickly scans his closet for some clothing. Loosely piled clothing covers the carpeted floor of his closet while a few nicer shirts sit on hangers off to the side.


    Hm... Is this dirty..? Nah.


    I wore this yesterday, but who cares.


    Ryker slips a black tee over his masculine frame. Thankfully his meager bust is not noticeable with the shirt on. Ryker slips on some jeans he wore the day prior and finishes getting dressed before stumbling his way downstairs.


    "Morning, Mom." Ryker greets casually.


    "Morning... you sleep well?" She replies.


    Ryker scoops a healthy portion of scrambled eggs onto his plate while his mother scrubs a skillet coated in egg residue.


    "I did... Like a log, honestly." He says with a grin.


    The scent of potatoes cooked over the stove with a heap of butter and a dash of seasoning gets Ryker''s mouth watering. He takes forkfuls of the potato and egg, chowing down on his mother''s home cooking while she glances over at him with the gentle gaze of a mother.


    "Hm. Your acne is getting better. Did you start using that face wash I bought you?" She asks idly.


    Ryker stops eating his breakfast long enough to recall his face did look a bit cleaner than usual in his closet mirror earlier. He shrugs in reply before gulping down some orange juice.


    "Uh, not really..." He replies honestly.


    That gets a little chuckle out of his mother and a shake of her head. She undoes her apron and hangs it on the pantry door before grabbing her keys from the kitchen counter.


    "Well I appreciate your honesty." She says cheerily.


    The sensation of a brief kiss on his forehead brings a slight smile to Ryker''s face as he finishes his morning meal. His mother is already on her way to the door, her heels clicking on the hardwood floor.


    "I''ll be working late as usual, but your father will be home to cook dinner." She says as she steps outside.


    "Bye Mom! Love you!" Ryker calls out.


    With a smile and a quick wave his mother lets the door swing shut behind her as she marches to her car for a long commute to her workplace. The house is bathed in silence broken only by Ryker placing his dirty dishes into the kitchen sink. He brings his hand to his chest absentmindedly, feeling the developing mounds beneath his shirt.


    ~


    Squeaky sneakers echo throughout the gymnasium in a discordant chorus. Ryker, Jamison, Derek, and Theo stand in a diamond shape. The ball bounces from Derek''s left hand to his right. Derek takes a wide stance as he gives a few feints, his hand moving as if to toss the ball one direction before pulling it back.


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    "Just throw it already, man!" Jamison shouts.


    With that Derek moves to do an overhand throw toward Jamison, but at the last second he redirects the throw toward Theo. The dodgeball impacts Theo''s chest, and the boy lets out a grunt of shock as he steps back unsteadily.


    "Oh it''s on, you dick!" Theo shouts back.


    The dodgeball is in Theo''s hands, and he''s staring Derek down hard. Jamison watches on whilst Derek pulls out his phone. Derek is pretending to swipe through his socials, but his phone is clearly turned off. The taunting doesn''t work. Theo stares him down, bouncing the dodgeball off the floor and back up into his hands.


    "You gonna throw it or what?" Derek goads him.


    Theo answers with actions rather than words, and the throw goes high above the court before impacting the floor just barely in front of Derek. The smug grin on Derek''s chiseled face quickly turns to a pained grimace as the dodgeball bounces straight up into Derek''s crotch.


    "Nutshot!" Theo yells, victorious.


    Derek is on his knees now as he bites back pained whimpers, his hands clutching at his treasured jewels. Jamison steps over toward Theo, wincing at Derek''s condition.


    "Didn''t know you had it in you." Jamison comments.


    Theo looks like he''s on top of the world, grinning wide. Jamison can''t help but smile at the sight of Derek getting his just desserts at the hands of Theo. The absence of Ryker''s usual comments brings Jamison''s attention to Ryker. It looks like he''s just staring down at his feet.


    Is he okay? He looks out of it.


    Jamison steps toward the dazed looking Ryker with a gentleness in his dark eyes. He gently grabs his buddy by the shoulder.


    "Hey man, you alright?" Jamison asks.


    Ryker blinks as Jamison''s question brings him back to the present. Ryker clears his throat, glancing around.


    "Ah... I''m fine." Ryker replies unconvincingly.


    "Alright... just remember we''re here if you need to talk." Jamison assures.


    Jamison''s words calm Ryker somewhat, albeit that calm is quickly shattered when Derek and Theo approach. Derek chuckles, pointing at Ryker''s chest. Ryker''s own gaze moves to his chest. His shirt is thin enough that his currently stiffened nipples show.


    "Bro are you cold or something?" Derek laughs.


    Ryker''s face grows hot as he uses one hand to pinch the fabric of his shirt, shaking it and hunching his back slightly so as to hide his developing breasts.


    "Shut up..." Ryker grumbles.


    Derek raises his hands in mock surrender. Their conversation is interrupted by the ringing of the bell. Students start filing out of the gym while Ryker and his friends grab their bags. The four of them join the flow of students leaving the school.


    "You guys wanna hang out at my place on Saturday?" Jamison offers.


    Theo nods slightly while Ryker glances at his own chest hesitantly. Derek claps Jamison on the back with an exuberant grin.


    "Hell yeah!" Derek replies.


    Jamison''s gaze moves to Ryker, giving him a worried once over. Nothing looks out of the ordinary to Jamison, but he knows when a friend is struggling.


    "Hey Ryker, you in?" Jamison asks.


    Ryker''s eyes move from his own body to Jamison''s face. Ryker looks like a deer in headlights.


    "Oh- Oh yeah of course." Ryker replies with faux enthusiasm.


    Jamison can''t help but worry over his friend''s recent behavior, but he doesn''t want to push him for details too soon. The four of them move the conversation to a different topic as they leave campus.


    He''ll tell me when he''s ready.


    ~


    The door swings open as Ryker steps inside with a huff. The smell of a pizza fresh out the oven wafts into his nostrils, and his stomach grumbles at the scent. He pulls the front door shut with a little more force than necessary.


    Leaving his shoes by the door, Ryker carries his backpack to the dining table. His father can be seen cutting a cheese pizza on the kitchen counter. The older man turns and gives his son a cursory glance.


    "Welcome home, bud." Ryker''s father says.


    His father carries the pizza into the dining area with one large hand. He places it on the table along with a pair of plates and some napkins. Ryker grabs a few slices and starts eating whilst his father takes a bite out of his own slice of pizza. The relative quiet comes to an end when Ryker''s father clears his throat.


    "You''re getting a little shaggy there, kid." He says.


    Ryker''s confusion shows on his face as he uses a clean hand to touch his brown hair, feeling how it nearly touches his ears. He groans in annoyance and throws his hands up in exasperation. Ryker''s father gives him the fatherly gaze with an eyebrow raised.


    "Did something happen today?" Ryker''s father asks.


    The irritation in Ryker''s demeanor melts away as he locks eyes with his much larger and older father. His old man has the look of a grizzly bear, and the temperament of a teddy bear. Ryker lets out a soft sigh.


    "Sorry, Dad. I um... Just teenager stuff." Ryker half lies.


    Ryker''s father doesn''t comment again. The two of them enjoy a rather quiet dinner while Ryker''s thoughts wander to the small changes he''s experienced.


    Did that weird potion actually do something?


    The sound of his father''s plate being put into the kitchen sink brings Ryker back to the present. His father makes his way into the living room with a can of pepsi, and takes a seat on his armchair.


    Ryker puts his own plate into the sink before walking through the living room toward the stairs. He glances at the television to see some sort of nature documentary playing.


    "Thanks for the pizza, Dad. I''m gonna head up to my room and do some homework." Ryker explains.


    "No problem, bud." He replies.


    Ryker makes his way upstairs, the stairs creaking in his wake. He tosses his backpack into his room before heading into the bathroom. The clean rectangular room is a adorned with various duck themed decorations. Ryker shuts and locks the door before heading to the toilet. Relief washes over Ryker as he does his business, but something he hadn''t noticed stops him in his tracks.


    Wait... is my dick smaller?

 Cafeterias & Conspiracies [3]

    Ryker''s aching body bolts upright as the sound of his alarm rouses him from a fleeting nightmare. His body is slick with cold sweat. He looks down at himself: his breasts have doubled in volume. Ryker swallows a mouthful of saliva whilst staring down at himself in disbelief.


    He brings a hand up to gently prod at himself, and the strangely soft squish of his own breast makes him blush. Ryker half expected it to turn him on or something, but it feels just the same as having his arm poked.


    It''s not as stimulating as I thought?


    Ryker''s train of thought is derailed when his finger brushes a nipple, and the electric tinge of pleasure mixed with irritation stops him in his tracks. He gently pinches his own nipple between two fingers, and the sensation elicits a quiet gasp of surprise.


    Oh, now I get it. Wow...


    The oddly fascinating sensation grips Ryker''s attention as he starts to poke, pinch, and play with his own boobs. Several minutes pass like this before the sound of knocking on his bedroom door brings Ryker''s fun to a stop.


    Without hesitation Ryker grasps the fringes of his comforter and pulls it over his torso protectively. The door swings open to reveal his mother wearing a mildly concerned expression.


    "Huh. Have you been growing out your hair?" Ryker''s mother asks.


    There''s a brief moment where Ryker''s mother traces his body with her eyes as if looking for something. Ryker feels his face grow pale as she follows the width of his shoulders and the shape of his arms. Ryker clears his throat softly while poking at his own hair. It''s past his ears now.


    "Uh... not intentionally?" He replies, his voice sounding hoarse.


    Ryker''s mother keeps her eyes glued to her son''s neck and face for a few moments. She frowns slightly, and steps back into the hall while slowly pulling the door closed.


    "Breakfast is downstairs, I have to head to work a little early." She says, shutting the door.


    Ryker listens to the sound of his mother''s footsteps receding downstairs. He lets out a held breath whilst glancing down at his frame. The width of his shoulders look narrower, and the bulk of his biceps are almost nonexistent now.


    Did I get shorter?


    Standing, Ryker walks over to his closet. Inside he can see himself in the mirror. With the right haircut he could pass for a tomboy, especially considering he''s been reduced to 5 feet and seven inches-three inches shorter than the day prior. Heat rises to Ryker''s face as he stares at himself.


    After gawking at himself for far longer than he intended, Ryker grabs a loose baggy hoodie and the same pair of jeans he wore the day before. With a pair of fresh socks and his shoes on, he''s ready to start the day.


    ~


    "Dude... look at Tracy..." Derek nudges Ryker.


    The nudge takes Ryker by surprise. Derek lets out a quiet whistle while eyeing the aforementioned girl. Ryker follows his gaze to see Tracy Newman, a brunette girl who shares 4th period with Ryker. Judging by the way Derek is staring, he appreciates the amount of cleavage she''s leaving exposed with her top.


    "Come on, cut it out." Ryker scolds him.


    "What? She wouldn''t be wearing that if she didn''t want me to stare." Derek replies in a sleazy manner.


    Derek''s comment gets cut short by Theo giving him a kick in the calf and a deadpan look. Derek looks ready to kick back when Theo cuts him off.


    "She obviously wore it with someone specific in mind. Not you." Theo says coldly.


    Derek looks a little bitter, but clearly sees the truth in Theo''s words. Jamison puts a hand on both Derek and Theo''s shoulders.


    "I''m all for a little discourse, but the line is moving, boys." Jamison scolds.


    Derek is such an ass...


    Ryker isn''t paying close attention to where he''s walking and steps right onto a discarded napkin. He slips on it, losing his balance.


    "Ah-!" Ryker cries out.


    His normally masculine voice sounds almost effeminate, so he shuts his mouth faster than he opened it.


    "Woah-" Derek exclaims.


    Ryker expects to feel his face smack onto tile but instead he feels a rather large firm hand pressing against his chest. The sensation of someone squishing his breasts brings warmth to his face. Ryker quickly stands up on his own two feet and pushes Derek''s muscular arm away from him. Ryker''s eyes can''t help but flit across the arm that was just supporting him. Toned muscle and a bicep as big as a cantaloupe leave Ryker a little breathless.


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    "You okay? You almost ate it." Derek asks with concern.


    Ryker gives a quick nod while stuffing his hands into his hoodie pockets. The thick fabric hides how badly his hands are shaking. Derek is looking at him with concern rather than suspicion.


    "Y-Yeah, just a little shaken up." Ryker replies nervously.


    "Gotcha. Shall we?" Derek offers.


    Ryker stays still for a moment before walking ahead of Derek. The smell of cheaply made food and the din of kitchen staff at work eases his nerves further. Green beans, mashed potatoes, and a hunk of turkey wind up on Ryker''s lunch tray. It''s pretty good for school food.


    Jamison leads the quartet to their usual spot in the cafeteria, and sets his tray down. Derek slides into the seat on Jamison''s left while Theo sits to Jamison''s right. Ryker takes his usual spot next to Derek. The bland yet palatable food distracts Ryker from a slurry of confusing emotions. He''s halfway through his food when a plastic fork lands on his tray. Ryker looks up to see Theo shaking his head.


    "I''ve been trying to get your attention for like, a minute straight." Theo chides him.


    "Sorry, my bad. What''s up?" Ryker replies, lowering his voice''s pitch just slightly.


    "You''re still coming over to my place tonight to do the physic''s project, right?" Theo asks.


    Realization dawns on Ryker as he recalls the promise he made just yesterday. He nods quickly whilst glancing up at the clock. Lunchtime is almost over.


    "Yeah of course." Ryker affirms.


    "Good, good... I''ll see you out front after school, then?" Theo asks.


    "Yup, sounds good." Ryker replies, his pitch getting high again.


    Theo gives Ryker a weird look as Ryker''s face color a little red. He fakes a cough and comes up with an excuse on the fly.


    "Sorry, voice crack." Ryker lies.


    The look on Theo''s face says he doesn''t buy that excuse, but he doesn''t call Ryker out. Theo''s unconvinced nod closes the conversation. Ryker goes back to shoveling food in his face until the harsh ringing of the school bell forces him to stop.


    The four friends dump their trays and go their separate ways. Derek and Ryker exchange eye contact for a fleeting moment before Ryker averts his eyes. Ryker feels embarrassment coloring his cheeks as he flees into the crowd.


    God that was embarrassing!


    ~


    Theo unlocks the door to his rather bland looking house. The neatly tended garden out front serves to brighten up the otherwise plain exterior, but it can only do so much. Theo steps inside with Ryker following him close behind. Theo''s mother sets down the glass of water she was drinking when she sees the two boys enter. She''s a strict yet caring mother, from what Ryker knows.


    "Hey Mom. Me and Ryker are gonna finish up our physics project." Theo explains.


    "Alright, just focus on studying, ok?" Theo''s mom says with a smile.


    This causes Theo to make a face and Ryker to blush ever so slightly. Her slight chuckling reveals it was meant to be a joke, but Theo doesn''t seem amused.


    "I''m not into guys, Mom... jeez." Theo sighs.


    "What? I didn''t mean anything like that..." She replies.


    Theo shakes his head while ascending the stairs. Ryker sheepishly looks away from Theo''s mother while following behind Theo. Pictures of Theo and his family adorn the walls along with a few academic awards bearing Theo''s name.


    "So, you wanna finish up the left panel while I do the right?" Theo asks.


    "Sure, sounds good." Ryker nods along.


    The physics project consists of a trifold board pasted with various information and a physical demonstration of their given subject. Theo is doing most of the work while Ryker does his best to decorate and help out with the easy parts.


    The soft din of the television downstairs along with the sound of cutting and writing make for a relaxing environment. Ryker''s busy at work when he nicks his hand on the scissors, wincing and bringing his finger to his mouth. Theo glances over, scooting closer to get a look.


    "Ah, it''s fine I just cut my hand-" Ryker explains.


    "Let me see." Theo cuts in.


    Ryker is a little confused as Theo grabs ahold of Ryker''s hand. The bespectacled boy focuses on the small gash while gently rubbing an unaffected area in an almost intimate manner. Ryker snatches back his hand with a look of betrayal.


    "What the hell was that for?" Ryker asks, sounding hurt.


    Theo pushes his glasses up the bridge of his nose before turning to look Ryker in the eyes.


    "Your hands are a lot softer than they were previously. Callouses don''t just vanish." Theo calmly states.


    Ryker''s expression shifts to one of surprise as Theo''s gaze moves from Ryker''s eyes to his hair. The boy''s usually timid nature is nowhere to be seen as he points at Ryker.


    "Your hair has also grown abnormally fast recently, and your body is much smaller than it was previously." Theo finishes listing his observations.


    "S-So what? You think I magically shrunk or something?" Ryker replies sarcastically.


    Theo lets out a low chuckle that''s a little too sinister for Ryker''s taste. The boy stands up with a glint in his eyes as he slaps his palm onto a cork board hanging on his wall. The poster tacked onto it falls away to reveal a series of scribbled notes and drawings connected by red yarn. Ryker''s jaw drops at the spectacle.


    He has a conspiracy board?!


    "I''ve figured it out. Yesterday your hair grew at an unrealistic speed, now your body has shrunk. There''s only one explanation for this: That potion is changing you." Theo explains.


    Ryker stares up at Theo with wide eyes as the boy''s scrutinizes his body. Theo clears his throat before sitting back down beside Ryker. He has a notepad in hand and a pen at the ready. His framed eyes trace Ryker''s legs as he scribbles something into his notepad.


    "So, if you don''t mind, could you tell me what''s been happening to you?" Theo asks.


    Theo''s earnest expression is met with an embarrassed and surprised one from Ryker. He shakes his head, sighing as he pulls his knees to his chest. The sensation of his legs squishing his breasts is a little odd, but also comfortable.


    "I um... I don''t know dude, it''s kind of weird and personal..." Ryker replies.


    "Don''t be like that, It''s for science!" Theo presses him.


    "I-I just don''t feel comfortable saying!" Ryker denies again.


    Ryker leans back a bit as Theo leans forward. The butt end of Theo''s pen points towards Ryker''s chest while Theo moves to his knees in an attempt to scoot closer. The action is without malice, but he''s physically pressuring Ryker.


    "You can''t just keep this knowledge all to yourself!" Theo raises his voice.


    "I said no!" Ryker shrieks.


    Theo loses his balance as Ryker slides roughly into Theo''s closed bedroom door. The weight of Theo''s body squishes directly onto Ryker''s clothes breast; his hand dropping the pen in favor of grasping for support. The sound of footsteps thumping up the stairs drains the color from both of the boys'' faces. Theo''s mom opens the door before they have the chance to recover.


    Oh fuck.

 An Enjoyable Evening [4]

    Ryker and Theo are sitting on Theo''s bed, albeit with a three foot gap between them. Theo''s Mother is sitting across from them on a desk chair. She''s giving her son a hard look. The mature woman clears her throat before speaking.


    "Theo, what have I told you about treating women with respect?" Theo''s mother says.


    "M-Mom! Ryker isn''t a girl!" Theo stammers incredulously.


    Theo''s mother shuts him up with a stern glare. She turns her gaze to Ryker and her expression softens. Ryker has his arms wrapped around his midsection. His face is tomato red.


    "Ryker, whether you identify as a girl or not, you need to be careful. Even around the boys you know, like Theo." She explains.


    Replying with a silent nod of the head is all Ryker can bring himself to do. Theo looks both frustrated and embarrassed as his mother treats Ryker so differently. Theo''s mother turns her sharp gaze back onto Theo.


    "Now Theo, I don''t care if Ryker is a boy or girl, you need to apologize." She says sternly.


    Theo looks like he wants to refute his mother''s words, but she has a point. Ryker''s blush deepens as Theo turns to him with an apologetic expression.


    "I''m sorry for... pressuring you, and for grabbing you, Ryker." Theo apologizes.


    "I-It''s ok... I forgive you." Ryker replies softly.


    Theo''s mother smiles at the two teens. She stands, giving them an amused look. She steps toward the door to the bedroom, opening it.


    "Okay, you two need to finish your project." Theo''s mother says.


    Ryker and Theo both sigh in relief.


    "...But keep the door open. You''re supposed to be working, not flirting." She adds.


    That sets Ryker''s cheeks ablaze and Theo is stunned into silence. Theo''s mother''s quiet footsteps recede downstairs as the two boys awkwardly avoid eye contact.


    Theo gets off the bed, and starts to finish the project. Ryker lets out a deep breath as he joins Theo.


    "So u-um... Sorry." Ryker mumbles.


    Theo gives Ryker a look, and raises his brow as if posing an unsaid question. Ryker avoids his eyes with flushed cheeks.


    "...I haven''t been honest lately." Ryker finishes.


    "You haven''t, but it is understandable." Theo says sympathetically.


    Ryker does a double take at his friend''s words.


    "...It is?" Ryker says blankly.


    "You''re being feminized, so of course you''d be too embarrassed to explain it to your buddies. I won''t prod you further." Theo explains solemnly.


    This brings a slight blush to Ryker''s cheeks, but it fades as he turns to give Theo a big smile. Theo is caught off guard as he inspects Ryker''s features. What used to be decidedly masculine is now soft, rounded, or smooth. Theo catches himself staring at Ryker before looking away.


    "I''m glad we''re friends, Theo." Ryker says sincerely.


    Hearing those words in this situation makes Theo''s face redden.


    "Y-Yeah. Me too." Theo stutters.


    Their eventful evening comes to a close as Theo''s mother knocks on the open door. This startles both Ryker and Theo into sitting up straight.


    "It''s almost eight o clock. I think it''s time you walk Ryker home, Theo." Theo''s mother says.


    "Huh? Um, but it''s still pretty early..." Theo mumbles.


    "Theo." His mother scolds.


    Ryker quietly packs up his things without complaining. Theo sees this and tidies up his own study materials before standing by the door. Ryker slips his backpack over his shoulders, and follows Theo downstairs. Theo''s mom opens the front door for them.


    "Say hello to your mother for me, Ryker." Says Theo''s mother.


    "Of course!" Ryker replies.


    Theo steps outside with Ryker in tow. The chirping of crickets greets them as chilly night air nips at their skin. Theo''s Mother watches the pair depart from the doorway. She shuts the door.


    ~


    Theo and Ryker have been walking in silence for several minutes. The soft glow of yellow streetlights illuminates their path. The quiet chirping of crickets serves as ambiance for their walk. They''re walking side by side while stealing furtive glances at one another. Theo is the first to break the silence.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "So are you gonna tell the guys?" Theo asks.


    Ryker swallows nervously. The thought of telling Jamison isn''t too scary, but telling Derek sounds downright nightmarish. Derek would totally call him a sissy or something. Jamison might understand. Maybe.


    "N-Not yet. Can you promise not to tell anyone about this?" Ryker replies quietly.


    Theo frowns at his friend''s words, but doesn''t argue.


    "You have my word." Theo promises.


    The two of them walk for another minute in awkward silence. The scraping of their sneakers on the pavement meshes with the chorus of chirping crickets. This time Ryker breaks the silence between them.


    "Do you think Jamison bought Tech Titans 2?" Ryker asks.


    Theo looks at his shoes thoughtfully. Tech Titans was the friend group''s go to game when they were in middle school. Things got a little stale as they entered high school, but now there is a sequel. Memories of playing the game all night at sleepovers brings a smile to Theo''s face.


    "Yeah. You know how he always prepares for our hangouts." Theo replies.


    "I really hope so. Playing with you guys was always a lot of fun." Ryker admits.


    "Even if Derek teased you a little for picking Valarie every time?" Theo laughs.


    Ryker pouts a bit at the memories of Derek''s judgmental jokes. Valarie is the only girl mech pilot in the game, and Derek called Ryker girl names just to mess with him. Ryker is just a normal boy, so getting called otherwise always set him off.


    "Hah. I''ll still pick her every time." Ryker says bitterly.


    "Really? Why do you like Valerie so much?" Theo asks.


    The conversation halts as Ryker contemplates his question. It''s something Ryker asks himself sometimes. Why does he like playing as girls in video games so consistently?


    "I dunno. It''s just more fun that way." Ryker shrugs.


    Theo nods slightly while looking at Ryker''s slightly feminine features. He turns away to realize they''re arriving at Ryker''s house. The cozy looking home''s front window is illuminated with homely orange light. The splashes of color from the television can barely be made out through the curtains.


    "We''re here." Theo states.


    Ryker starts walking up the steps without further prompting. He grabs the door handle, but stops to turn toward Theo. He lets go of the handle, walking over to the edge of the porch.


    "Thanks for walking me home, Theo." Ryker thanks him softly.


    "Oh. Y-Yeah no problem, uh, dude." Theo replies awkwardly.


    ~


    Miranda''s fingers feel like raisins as she finishes rinsing off the last of the plates in the sink. She sets it aside to dry. The murky water in the sink feels cold on her hand when she reaches in to pull the plug. The soapy water drains with a loud gurgling.


    "Mom, I''m home!" Ryker shouts.


    Ryker''s voice sounds a little strange.


    Is he feeling ill?


    Her son''s quiet footsteps bring a slight smile to her face. She grabs a tinfoil wrapped bowl of macaroni and cheese from the fridge. The tinfoil goes into the trash while the bowl goes into the microwave. Miranda turns around to give her son a hug.


    "Welcome home." Miranda says with a smile.


    Ryker goes up to her with a big grin on his face, and embraces her. Miranda''s arms wrap around her son as well, but something feels off about the situation. It almost feels as if Ryker has gotten shorter. The mother and son separate.


    "Theo''s mom says hi, by the way!" Ryker exclaims.


    Miranda''s eyebrows raise slightly at the pitch of her son''s voice. Normally a hoarse throat makes your voice a bit deeper or scratchier, but Ryker''s sounds higher than usual. The poor boy''s hair is getting in his eyes too.


    "Well then, I''ll have to go say hi back." Miranda chuckles.


    "Yup. What''re you making..?" Ryker asks curiously.


    The microwave beeps right on cue, signaling the macaroni and cheese has been reheated. Miranda takes the bowl out of the microwave with an oven mitt, and places it down on the table. Ryker''s eyes light up. He quickly grabs a fork and sits down.


    "Thanks Mom!" Ryker says.


    "You''re very welcome." Miranda replies.


    Miranda''s gaze lingers on her son as he eats. He''s a little shaggier than usual, and sounds a bit strange, but he''s still her son. Heavy footsteps signal her husband''s approach.


    "How''d the assignment go, bud?" Mason asks.


    Ryker starts to talk with his face stuffed full of macaroni before swallowing the mouthful. He clears his throat, and Miranda quirks an eyebrow at the fake deepness Ryker adds to his voice.


    "It went great! Theo and I... uh... Knocked it out of the park." Ryker fibs.


    Mason grunts in acknowledgment. Ryker smiles a bit when he feels his father''s hand ruffle his somewhat shaggy dark hair. Mason shares a knowing look with Miranda as he leaves the dining room.


    "Is there anything you need to tell me, Ryker?" Miranda asks softly.


    The fearful look on Ryker''s face quickly changes to one of ignorance. He avoids eye contact as Miranda takes a seat beside him.


    "N-No. Why do you ask?" Ryker replies.


    The oddly soft and feminine lilt in his voice makes his words sound unconvincing. Miranda shakes her head, and stands up.


    "Just checking in with my son." Miranda replies.


    ~


    The cold white bathroom lights illuminate Ryker''s bare body as he looks into the mirror. The faint scent of his own sweat is bothering him. He needs to shower.


    Why do I keep getting irritated for no reason?


    The shower''s warm water splashes against the bathtub. Warmth radiates from behind the curtain. Ryker pouts slightly as he inspects his rather small bust.


    Something just feels so strange.


    That potion must be messing with my head!


    Ryker steps into the shower, letting the water cascade down his androgynous body. His hair feels greasy as he slips his fingers into it. The sweet scent of strawberries fills the shower as he opens his shampoo.


    Maybe I should just tell mom and dad.


    They could help me find a way to cure it!


    An unfamiliar trickling of water gives Ryker pause. He frowns a bit as he looks down between his legs. His friend is still intact, albeit at a significantly smaller scale. Ryker''s face reddens.


    This is so stupid!


    Is the potion really making me a girl?!


    Ryker huffs and puffs as he lathers his hair in shampoo. The soapy stuff foams up into a slew of bubbles as he rubs it in. The warm water cascades down his scalp when he leans back to rinse away the shampoo.


    Something silly pops into Ryker''s head as he plays with his slightly longer hair.


    Would being a girl be so bad..?


    A stubborn frown and a few shakes of the head push that silly thought out of Ryker''s head. He is a boy after all. No two ways about it. Completely boyish and manly.


    Ryker steps out of the shower. He glances in the mirror, and frowns at the dark hairs growing along his forearms. They''ve never bothered Ryker much. Now they look disgusting to him.


    Shaving cream puffs into pillowy looking blobs along Ryker''s arm as he sprays. The stuff tingles a bit as he rubs it all over the area he intends to shave.


    It can''t be that different from how I shave my face, right?


    Ryker is mostly right, and easily cleans up his forearms. The dark hair is washed away into the sink, and a new enemy catches Ryker''s dark eyes. His legs.


    Not you too! Ugh!


    That night Ryker stays up quite late in an effort to rid himself of unseemly dark body hair. He crawls into bed around two in the morning, and promptly falls into a deep sleep.

 Spontaneous Shopping [5]

    Firm knocking wakes Ryker with a start. His bleary eyes blink rapidly as his sunlit bedroom comes into focus. His mom gently opens the door, and Ryker frantically pulls his blankets up to cover himself. His mother scans him up and down. If she notices anything she doesn''t say it.


    "Jamison''s here. He said you were gonna go with him to grab the snacks and stuff for your little party tonight..?" She explains.


    "O-Oh shoot! Yeah!" Ryker affirms.


    Silence ensues as the feminine voice that just came out of Ryker''s mouth shocks both mother and son. Ryker quickly brings up an excuse for his odd pitch.


    "A-Ahem... S-Sorry, I''ve been feeling a little sick." Ryker lies.


    Ryker''s mother gives him a disbelieving look. She leaves the room wordlessly, gently shutting his bedroom door. Ryker takes a deep breath.


    Oh my god that was embarrassing!


    Ryker leaps out of bed and practically throws himself into his closet. The dirty clothing gets him to wrinkle his button nose in disgust.


    How did I live like this?


    There has to be something clean in here!


    Stained shirts and greasy jeans form a hefty pile. The occasional pair of boxers or crusty socks is the icing on the unhygienic cake. Ryker finally settles for a mostly okay smelling shirt and a slightly dirt stained pair of jeans. One look in the mirror makes him cringe at how obvious his bust is.


    The hoodie is a must!


    Ryker feels a little stuffy as he slips into his hoodie. At least his chest doesn''t look so obviously feminine now. Ryker hurries out of his bedroom, taking the stairs two at a time.


    ~


    Jamison yawns lazily. The sun is already halfway up in the sky, and birds are chirping as they do every morning. The sound of the front door opening catches his attention. He turns to greet Ryker. Instead there''s a girl he doesn''t recognize. Her black hair stops just above her shoulders, and the hoodie she wears fails to obscure the telltale curve of her breasts. Jamison averts his gaze.


    "H-Hey sorry I kind of overslept!" She says.


    Her voice is a little familiar, but not immediately recognizable. She has this sheepish smile on her face that Jamison finds adorable.


    "It''s alright, but who are you..?" Jamison asks casually.


    The unknown girl turns pale. She stammers a bit as she avoids eye contact with Jamison.


    "I-It''s me, Ryker!" She whines.


    Something clicks. Jamison''s eyebrows go up as he appraises the person standing in front of him. This person looks almost five feet tall, yet Ryker was five feet and eight inches tall last he heard. This person does have an uncanny resemblance to Ryker.


    "Hm. Prove it." Jamison challenges.


    "You''re a real jerk, you know that?" So called Ryker protests.


    Jamison smirks at the girl''s reaction. She''s pretty similar to Ryker, but there''s no way Ryker just suddenly grew boobs overnight. The girl claiming to be Ryker crosses her arms over her chest, glaring at Jamison.


    "If looks could kill-" Jamison starts to tease.


    "The potion." She suddenly says.


    The girl''s tone is deathly serious. The trip to the witch''s shop a couple nights ago comes to Jamison''s mind.


    "Wait, so it actually did something?" Jamison asks hesitantly.


    "Y-Yeah." Ryker affirms shakily.


    "What happened to you? Are you... Are you turning into a girl?" Jamison voices the obvious.


    Ryker''s expression contorts into one of disgust and shame as he looks at his own feet. Jamison''s own face wears a puzzled look.


    "I-I don''t know." Ryker replies shakily.


    "I believe you. We probably shouldn''t have made you drink that stuff..." Jamison says apologetically.


    Ryker''s mood shifts to anger. He lifts his head to glare at Jamison, pointing a finger at him accusingly. Ryker''s other hand rests on his hip.


    "It is so your fault!" Ryker scolds.


    "In my defense, Derek started it." Jamison argues.


    The sudden feeling of a small finger being jabbed into his chest startles the usually relaxed Jamison. He looks from Ryker''s small finger to his adorable angry face. Jamison can''t help but start laughing in amusement.


    "W-What''s so funny?!" Ryker stammers.


    Jamison holds a hand over his mouth as if to stifle his mirth. Ryker''s hand is gently pushed aside.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    "Y-You''re just really cute when you''re angry!" Jamison chuckles.


    Ryker''s face goes strawberry red. He balls his little fists into his hoodie pockets, and walks past Jamison onto the sidewalk. Jamison calms himself down while following.


    "What''s the matter-" Jamison asks.


    "Shut up. We''re buying the snacks." Ryker cuts him off.


    ~


    Relaxing jazz music plays over tinny speakers embedded in the mall''s ceiling. Water cascades down the fountain''s tiered surfaces in the center of the entrance. A few other customers mill about.


    "So Derek wants me to grab some mountain dew, doritos, and hot dogs." Jamison lists what Derek requested.


    "You need to grab the hotdog buns too." Ryker adds.


    The effeminate voice that he speaks in brings some pink to his cheeks. Thankfully Jamison doesn''t tease him about it. The two of them step into the only grocery store contained in a mall within existence.


    "Welcome." The cashier greets them.


    Jamison gives the teenage boy manning the cash register a polite nod. Ryker''s dark eyes flit from the boy''s face to his own shoes. Something about being in public like this really makes him nervous.


    What if someone figures out I''m not a real girl?


    Jamison leads the way through the store. He snatches two bags of doritos off the shelf as they pass through the chips aisle. Ryker grabs a bag of hotdog buns.


    The hot dogs and soda are close together, so those last two items quickly find themselves in Jamison''s arms.


    "Let me carry some of that-" Ryker starts.


    "Nu-uh." Jamison interrupts.


    "What? Why not?" Ryker questions.


    Jamison glances over at Ryker''s hoodie clad body with a frown. He pointedly looks at Ryker''s arms. He looks to his own semi muscular ones.


    "No offense, but you''re way weaker than you used to be." Jamison comments.


    Ryker''s face reddens as he shoves Jamison lightly. Jamison doesn''t react to the push at all.


    "S-Shut up!" Ryker whispers.


    Jamison sets the items down on the checkout counter. The cashier helps him scan all the items while Ryker glances down at his phone.


    Theo: Hey


    Ryker quirks his brow at the out of character greeting. He replies.


    Ryker: Hey? What''s up?


    Theo: I was just wondering if there have been anymore changes


    Ryker: Uh well kind of. Jamison knows. I''m shopping with him rn.


    Jamison grabs the grocery bags after paying. He walks out with Ryker in tow. Ryker scoffs at how he doesn''t have to carry anything.


    "I''m not actually a girl now, Jamison." Ryker says sarcastically.


    "Could have fooled me." Jamison replies.


    "Dude! Ugh. Let''s just finish shopping and go to your place already." Ryker grumbles.


    Jamison and Ryker walk down the mall corridor for a few minutes. Jamison walks into a department store, and Ryker follows. The items here are kind of pricey for Ryker''s taste.


    "You getting yourself something fancy or..?" Ryker asks.


    "I''m getting you some clothing that fits you properly, knucklehead." Jamison retorts.


    Ryker glances around as Jamison leads them into the women''s section of the store. His face gets a little pink as he realizes what Jamison means.


    "B-But these are women''s clothes!" Ryker hisses quietly.


    "So what?" Jamison replies at normal volume.


    "I can''t put them on. That''s just weird!" Ryker stammers.


    An employee who''s working in the area turns to look at them. She spots Jamison''s tall masculine self in the women''s section and takes it upon herself to approach him. Ryker nearly has a heart attack when they get confronted.


    "Did you need help with anything?" The employee offers.


    "Yes actually, my friend here needs a wardrobe update." Jamison gestures to Ryker.


    Ryker looks away. The employee''s blank look turns to a bright smile as she starts talking directly to Ryker about the things he needs.


    "So did you need undergarments, tops, or?" The woman asks.


    "I mean I don''t have any of it, but can I just go with some regular shirts?" Ryker replies dumbly.


    "Oh goodness no, you... You''ll want the support." The woman explains.


    Ryker''s cheeks flush at her words. He avoids Jamison''s eyes as the woman pulls a few bras off the shelves. She holds them up for Ryker to decide. He chooses the plain black one, and she hands two to Ryker.


    "Do I really need more than one..?" Ryker asks meekly.


    "Well of course. They can get sweaty and you don''t want to wear a dirty bra." She lectures.


    "O-Okay." Ryker nods.


    The employee then moves over, grabbing a couple pairs of matching plain black panties. Ryker''s jaw drops as she hands them to him casually. Jamison is wisely looking away from the situation at hand.


    Girl underwear, seriously?!


    "Now since its nearly winter you''ll want something warm. How''s this?" The woman asks.


    She''s holding up a white sweater which leaves the shoulders exposed. Ryker meekly nods at her, so she puts it with the other items. The employee grabs a long sleeved shirt with a cartoon graphic on the front.


    "Isn''t that too childish?" Ryker asks hesitantly.


    "What? No!" She objects.


    "It''ll look cute on you, don''t worry so much." Jamison interjects.


    Ryker''s face feels hot. The employee smiles a little at the exchange. She grabs a pack of black socks and hands them over to Jamison before turning back to Ryker. She has two pairs of black leggings.


    "These okay for bottoms?" She checks with Ryker.


    "Yes?" Ryker replies, unsure of what he''s being shown.


    The employee passes the leggings over to Ryker. She smiles brightly at Ryker, and nods as if proud of herself for helping pick out a couple outfits. Her eyes fall to Ryker''s worn out sneakers.


    "Oh, you need shoes..." She trails off.


    "What''s wrong with mine?" Ryker pouts.


    "Honey those are really beat up. How about getting a pair like these?" She offers.


    The employee is holding a pair of black leather boots. They''re a little punk, but not too over the top. Ryker''s eyes light up before he looks away.


    "I-I''m not sure I can afford all of this..." He stammers.


    "I told you, I''m paying." Jamison reminds him.


    The employee gives the pair a knowing smile as she guides them over to the counter. The items all cost more than Ryker could afford, yet Jamison pays for it all.


    "You can get changed in our changing rooms. They''re at the back." She points them out.


    Ryker meekly nods. Jamison leads Ryker over to the changing rooms, and hands over the outfit with the shoulderless sweater. Ryker takes the items tentatively.


    "I-Is this really okay? I feel weird mooching off you, and wearing this stuff!" Ryker whines.


    "Yes it''s okay. You don''t have to be a girl to wear girl clothing, silly." Jamison comforts.


    "But I-" Ryker protests.


    "No buts. Go on and get changed." Jamison stops him.


    Ryker pouts as he enters the changing room. Taking off his dirty clothing is a relief, but putting on the feminine undergarments is a trial for Ryker. He tears up a little when he realizes his manhood is missing.


    "Everything okay?" Jamison asks softly through the door.


    "N-No! It''s gone!" Ryker whimpers.


    "What? What''s gone?" Jamison asks.


    Ryker doesn''t explain himself. He slips into the matching panty and bra set before sighing in relief. The comfort provided by the bra is more worthwhile than he expected.


    The leggings are a bit cumbersome to slip on. They''re really tight on his hips especially. The top is as easy as any normal sweater, albeit a bit colder. The socks and new boots come last.


    Holy shit!


    I look adorable!


    The full length mirror provides a view of his new outfit on his new body. Ryker looks like an ordinary cute girl. Ryker''s dopey grin falls as he realizes that he''s not really the girl in the mirror.


    Why do I feel so sad all of a sudden?

 Butt of The Joke [6]

    Jamison leans against the wall of the department store, tapping a rhythm with his fingers. The door to the changing room unlocks with an audible click. Jamison turns to see how Ryker looks in his new outfit.


    The cute dark haired girl staring back at Jamison blows him away. Just changing into the right clothes has transformed her from a tomboy to a chick he''d be lucky to have as a girlfriend.


    "Woah..." Jamison breaths out.


    "What? Do I look weird? Honestly I kind of feel weird-" Ryker starts rambling.


    "No, you look great." Jamison compliments.


    Ryker''s pale cheeks flush bright pink from the compliment. Jamison can''t help wishing Ryker would stay this cute. He smirks at Ryker''s embarrassed expression.


    "You ready to meet up with the other guys?" Jamison asks.


    "Shit... What if Derek thinks I''m weird or gross?" Ryker worries.


    Jamison thinks about it for a second. Derek isn''t a gentle guy, but he isn''t a complete asshole either. Derek also appreciates pretty girls the most of the quartet.


    "Nah. If anything I think he''ll-" Jamison pauses.


    "What?" Ryker asks.


    A mischievous smirk slips onto Jamison''s face. He pulls out his phone, and sends a text to the group chat. Ryker gives him a perplexed look before pulling out his phone to check the notification.


    Jamison: Hey is it cool if I bring a girl over?


    Theo: Oh no


    Derek: Oh YES!


    Derek: How the fuck did you manage that?!


    Jamison feels a light swat on his arm. He glances up to see Ryker, red faced and glaring at him with his hand over his arm.


    "Did... You just smack me?" Jamison asks.


    "Yeah! I see what you''re trying to do!" Ryker growls.


    The barely registered impact was apparently Ryker''s angry slap. Jamison suppresses a chuckle. He gently pats Ryker on the head when a buzz interrupts their exchange.


    Theo: Is she who I think she is?


    Derek: What??? You know who she is? Are you guys holding out on me?!


    Jamison: I just met her today dude, relax


    Theo: How does Ryker feel about this..?


    "Yeah, Jamison! How do I feel about this?" Ryker gripes.


    Jamison barely stops a laugh from escaping as he starts walking with the bags of merchandise in hand. Ryker quickly follows him down the mall corridor.


    "If it really makes you uncomfortable, I''ll stop." Jamison says gently.


    Ryker''s expression softens as he walks alongside his much taller friend. He lets out a quiet sigh.


    "I''m cool with it, but why do you want to do this?" Ryker asks quietly.


    "I just think it''ll be funny." Jamison says.


    "What, making me the butt of your weird joke?" Ryker snaps.


    "Oh no, Derek will be the butt of this joke." Jamison corrects.


    Ryker''s footsteps stop for a second. He quickly resumes walking after pulling out his phone. Jamison checks the group chat to see what Ryker''s saying.


    Derek: Why would Ryker care? Won''t he be just as hyped as me???


    Ryker: I actually can''t make it for a bit, so I might not get to meet her :(


    Theo: Wow


    Derek: Damn dude that sucks


    Jamison glances over to see Ryker wearing a smug smile on his effeminate face. Ryker giggles to himself mischievously.


    Cute.


    ~


    The car ride to Theo''s place is occupied by rock music playing over the radio. Ryker casually taps his boots together with a smile on his face. They pull up to Theo''s house. The boy hops into the back.


    "Welcome aboard, Theodore!" Jamison shouts.


    "Jesus christ, Jamison!" Theo barks.


    Jamison''s amused laughter is joined by quiet giggling that catches Theo''s attention. He leans forward over the center console to look at Ryker sitting in the passenger seat. His glasses slip down the bridge of his nose as he gawks.


    "Quit staring!" Ryker scolds.


    "S-Sorry!" Theo apologizes.


    Theo sits back against the backseat with a bemused expression. He takes a deep breath.


    "Is that really Ryker?!" Theo exclaims.


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    "Yes!" Jamison and Ryker say in unison.


    Theo shakes his head softly as they pull away from his house. They''re on their way to pick Derek up. Theo pushes up his glasses.


    "So, I guess your plan is to tease Derek after revealing he''s been flirting with Ryker?" Theo speculates.


    "Pretty much." Jamison confirms.


    Ryker peeks out of the window as they get nearer to Derek''s house. He recognizes the area. Jamison turns to glance at Ryker.


    "Hey Ryker, swap seats with Theo." He suggests.


    "What, why?" Ryker questions.


    "It''ll be funny!" Jamison insists.


    Ryker clambers over the center console into the back of the vehicle. Theo looks at Ryker intently before making his way into the front seat. The car slows to a stop shortly after.


    Here he comes...


    I''m actually kind of nervous!


    The back door opens to reveal Derek dressed in one of his sleeveless shirts and a pair of shorts. His eyes widen a little when he sees Ryker sitting there in the back seat. He climbs into the car with a disarming smile.


    "So... Who''s this?" Derek asks.


    Jamison and Theo exchange a look with one another in the front seat. They never thought to come up with a convincing alias for Ryker. Ryker has to decide in the moment, or bail on the joke.


    "My name''s Zoe." Zoe introduces herself.


    "It''s a pleasure to meet you... I''m Derek." Derek replies in kind.


    Zoe smiles a little at Derek''s uncharacteristically respectful tone. She glances over his body to appreciate sitting next to Derek. The perspective is different now.


    "So are you from around here?" Derek asks.


    "Yeah I''ve lived here my whole life, actually." Zoe replies.


    "Damn, really? How have I not seen you at school?" Derek asks.


    This puts a blush on Zoe''s cheeks. She laughs it off, but the indirect compliment hits her right in the heart. Butterflies flutter in her tummy.


    "Hah, well I''m pretty low key." Ryker deflects.


    "I disagree. You''re really-" Derek starts.


    "Quit flirting so hard back there. I''m getting jealous." Jamison interrupts.


    Derek clears his throat. Zoe feels her face turning red. She looks out the window as they drive to Jamison''s place.


    Jealous? Him?


    ~


    The car slows to a stop in Jamison''s driveway. Zoe reaches for the door handle, but the door opens to reveal Jamison standing there. He smirks at Derek.


    "Man you are such a co-" Derek protests.


    "Hey! Don''t cuss around Zoe." Theo cuts in.


    Derek does a double take. Theo glares at Derek pointedly.


    "S-Sorry. Not used to having a girl around." Derek apologizes sheepishly.


    "It''s fine! I um... I don''t mind swearing." Zoe replies.


    Derek shakes his head at her with a wry smile playing upon his lips. The three of them move toward Jamison''s house.


    They''re treating me like a girl.


    Why is this so fun?


    Jamison unlocks the house. The three boys glance at her before moving aside as if to let her enter first. Zoe''s jaw drops.


    "T-This is stupid! I''m not a freaking princess!" Zoe complains.


    "Ladies first?" Jamison offers.


    Zoe relents, pushing her way past them to step into Jamison''s house. The interior is just as nice as she remembers it. Jamison, Theo, and Derek follow her inside in that order. Derek has the bags of food in his hands.


    "So how do you feel about doritos and mountain dew, Zoe?" Derek asks.


    "They''re fine. Not my favorite, but yummy." Zoe replies.


    Derek grabs four bowls from the kitchen and pulls open the bag of doritos. He pours each bowl full of them. Zoe watches him with a slight smirk.


    Wow. He is never this nice.


    Jamison takes it upon himself to participate. He grabs some cups for everyone and pours out the mountain dew without spilling a drop. Zoe shakes her head.


    At least Jamison normally does that kind of stuff.


    "You two are just making her uncomfortable." Theo comments.


    Theo grabs one of the bowls of doritos along with a cup of mountain dew. He sits down on the spacious couch in the living room with a huff. Jamison and Derek mumble something to one another. Zoe can''t hear what.


    "Sorry. Just excited to hang out with you is all." Derek apologizes.


    "It''s really fine." Zoe assures him.


    Jamison grabs his own bowl and cup. He joins Theo on the couch, leaving Zoe and Derek semi alone. Derek hands her a bowl and cup.


    "I really like your outfit. It suits you." Derek compliments her quietly.


    Zoe feels her cheeks burn for the umpteenth time today. She bites back a smile. Derek is making her swoon far too easily.


    I''m not gay!


    Derek is just really cute.


    Yeah, that''s it.


    "Thank you... You look good yourself." Zoe returns the compliment.


    Derek puffs up a little at the compliment. Zoe smirks at how proud of himself he looks. Usually she thinks he''s a pompous jerk, but now he just seems adorable.


    The two of them join Theo and Jamison on the couch. Derek is sitting on her left while the arm of the couch is on her right. The screen displays the title screen for Tech Titans 2. Zoe''s eyes light up.


    "You ever play Tech Titans?" Derek asks.


    "I used to play all the time back in middle school!" Zoe replies enthusiastically.


    Jamison presses start, and several gamemodes are presented. He chooses the free for all mode. Zoe immediately selects Valarie, with her sleek angular mech. Derek picks a beefy guy piloting a round mech. Theo chooses the guy in a skinsuit who has the cloaking mech. Jamison picks a robot with a mech that''s just a larger version of itself.


    "God it''s been ages since we played this last..." Jamison mumbles.


    The match begins. Derek is wiping the floor with them in the beginning. His round mech rolls around the arena like a wrecking ball. Zoe manages to keep away from him using her rocket boosters, but Theo and Jamison get their butts handed to them.


    "You''re not bad at this!" Derek exclaims.


    Zoe launches a barrage of homing missiles. Derek tries to dodge, but his mech is nearly destroyed by the attack.


    "What, did you expect a girl to be bad at video games?" Zoe retorts.


    Derek chokes on his words. His mech stops moving for a moment. Zoe capitalizes on it, blowing his mech to smithereens. Derek sighs dramatically.


    "Yes. I didn''t think you''d be a gamer." Derek says dejectedly.


    The next match starts. This time Theo and Jamison are more cautious and avoid getting crushed by Derek''s rolling mech. Zoe dies when Theo uses his cloaking ability to ambush her. Jamison takes down Derek in a hard fought battle, but Theo''s ambush kills him near instantly.


    "Aw c''mon!" Derek groans.


    "Just like old times, right?" Theo says smugly.


    "Actually it kind of is. Except Ryker got replaced by Zoe, haha." Derek comments.


    Awkward silence descends over the quartet like an unwanted blanket. Zoe nervously shifts in her seat. Theo and Jamison clearly want to speak up, but aren''t for Zoe''s sake.


    "Okay I''ll be honest." Zoe sighs.


    Derek looks at her curiously. Theo and Jamison are holding their breath. Zoe looks into Derek''s eyes with determination.


    "I''m actually Ryker." Ryker admits.


    "Huh?" Derek says dumbly.


    "You got punked! I was never a girl at all!" Ryker taunts in his girlish voice.


    Ryker stands up with his hands on his hips. Theo and Jamison look a little anxious while Derek is giving Ryker a suspicious look. Recognition and acceptance shine in his dark eyes before suspicion replaces it. He stands up and looks down at Ryker carefully.


    "Uhm. Zoe you''re like, five feet tall. Ryker''s only a little shorter than me." Derek explains.


    "It was the potion you made me drink!" Ryker interrupts.


    An awkward grin splits Derek''s face. He laughs whilst rubbing his hand on the back of his head. Ryker crosses his arms under his meager bust.


    "I... Uh, yeah that is my bad, huh?" Derek replies sheepishly.


    "Sure is your bad!" Ryker says with a huff.


    Jamison and Theo shake their heads in unison while Derek realizes something. He narrows his eyes at his friends with a frown.


    "Wait, so you two knew she was Ryker?" Derek questions.


    "Uh... yeah." Theo replies.


    "It was my idea to surprise you, actually. Thought it''d be funny." Jamison explains.


    Derek rolls his eyes at his friends before picking up his controller. He puts the game on the character select, and the other three give him a confused look. He realizes no one is picking their character, and scoffs.


    "Are we gonna play the game or not?" Derek asks impatiently.


    Jamison quickly picks out his usual character. Theo scrambles to do the same, but Ryker is dumbfounded.


    "What? That''s it? You''re just going to move on?" Ryker asks in exasperation.


    "Sure am." Derek replies curtly.


    Ryker blinks, and sits back down beside Derek. He picks out Valarie, and the match starts.


    This isn''t going how I expected...

 Romantic Tension [7]

    Several missiles fly across the screen, destroying a cloaked mech in seconds. Theo lets out an irritated groan as Ryker flies past the wreckage of his mech. Derek''s round mech crashes into Ryker''s mech half a second later, ending the match suddenly.


    "God, you are so annoying!" Ryker growls.


    "He''s annoying? You figured out how to kill me while I''m invisible!" Theo complains.


    Ryker giggles cheekily as Derek basks in his victory. Jamison glances at his phone, checking the time. He sets his controller on the table and stands up.


    "I think it''s time we have some real food, and maybe watch a movie?" Jamison offers.


    The other three all nod in agreement. Gaming with your friends for a couple hours works up an appetite that chips and soda cannot quench. Jamison moves into the kitchen, preparing the countertop grill. Derek snags a couple hot dogs from the fridge and puts them on the grill eagerly.


    "Dude, it''s not even hot yet." Jamison says.


    "It won''t take long. You got any condiments?" Derek replies.


    Derek opens the fridge with a hungry glint in his eyes. The mustard, ketchup, and relish are all there. Derek sets them all out on the counter.


    "Help yourself." Jamison replies dryly.


    Theo and Ryker enter the kitchen with hungry looks on their faces.


    "It''ll be a bit before they''re ready." Jamison says.


    Theo takes a seat at the dining table without complaint, but Ryker lets out an annoyed groan. The pout on his feminine features brings a small smile to Jamison''s face. He opens the pantry and hands Ryker a chocolate chip cookie.


    "Wait- You''ve got the good kind!?" Ryker says excitedly.


    "Yup, the good kind. Think of it as an appetizer." Jamison says.


    Ryker takes a small bite of the cookie as he sits down with Theo at the table. Theo watches him eat with a thoughtful expression. Ryker swallows, raising his brow at Theo.


    "What''re you staring at me for?" Ryker asks.


    Theo pulls out his notepad and pen, flipping to a new page. Ryker gets a brief peek at the previous page. Several bullet points and a sketch of a girl are visible for a half second.


    "I''m curious if your transformation is affecting your taste buds. You always liked those kind of cookies, but is there anything different you''ve noticed?" Theo inquires.


    Ryker looks down at the cookie in his hands with a conflicted expression. Ryker listens to the soft sound of the hotdogs sizzling on the grill as he thinks. He looks back up at Theo, and continues.


    "Honestly some things do taste a little different, but not that much. I think it might be messing with my head, though." Ryker wrinkles his nose in disgust.


    Theo writes down something on his notepad. He looks back up from the notepad, studying Ryker''s face. Derek takes a seat at the table with a set of four hot dogs on his plate. Each one is lined with a heavy dose of mustard, ketchup, and relish.


    "What makes you think that?" Theo prods.


    "Honestly I keep having these weird dreams, and stuff just feels... different." Ryker says softly.


    Ryker''s introspection is put to a stop when Jamison sets down a plateful of hotdogs in front of Ryker. The wavy lines of ketchup topping the hotdogs puts an excited smile on Ryker''s face. Jamison seats himself to the left of Ryker, digging into his own food. Ryker takes a bite before answering Theo.


    "Like, last night I had this weird dream where I was getting married to Jamison?" Ryker recalls.


    Jamison''s usually calm demeanor is shattered. He nearly chokes on his hot dog. Jamison takes a big gulp of mountain dew to wash it down. Derek whistles at Ryker''s words, smirking a little as he sets his elbow on the table.


    "Damn, someone''s got a crush!" Derek laughs.


    "It''s just the potion, you jerk." Ryker protests.


    Derek puts his hands up, and let''s Ryker get back to the interview. Ryker''s train of thought resumes. He twirls a lock of dark hair around his finger thoughtfully. Theo is sketching something on his notepad.


    "Actually, now that I think about it, that macho knight guy in my dream last week was totally Derek..." Ryker mumbles just loud enough for everyone to hear.


    Derek''s amused smile falls away. Theo writes hurriedly, speculating on paper. Something about Ryker''s statement gives Theo pause. He looks up at Ryker.


    "Hold on. You said you had that dream about Derek last week?" Theo inquires.


    "Uh-huh." Ryker affirms.


    "And what exactly was this dream about?" Theo continues.


    "I was like a princess in a tower, and a knight-who was Derek-saved me from the dragon." Ryker explains.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "So you have been having dreams about being a girl and fantasizing about boys for at least a week?" Theo extrapolates.


    Ryker scrunches up his little nose in disgust. Theo''s words are perfectly logical, but the implications unsettle Ryker. Derek and Jamison are both processing what they''ve just learned.


    "I don''t like where this is going..." Ryker grumbles.


    "Ryker, are you sure you aren''t transgender-" Theo asks.


    "I''m not! I''m just a normal boy!" Ryker snaps.


    Theo stiffens a little at Ryker''s outburst. Jamison and Derek both stay quiet. Ryker makes eye contact with Jamison. A wordless plea for help.


    "How does everyone feel about watching a scary movie?" Jamison offers a change of topic.


    Ryker relaxes as Jamison lists off a few good options for movies. Theo puts away his notepad, and mouths the word ''sorry'' to Ryker from across the table. Ryker smiles, mouthing back the words ''its ok'' silently.


    "I''m all for watching something scary, but it better be good." Derek agrees.


    "Of course! I heard there''s this new one about tarot cards or something. It looked good?" Jamison offers.


    "No, anything but that!" Theo cuts in suddenly.


    Derek and Jamison turn to him with matching looks of skepticism.


    "Did you watch it already?" Derek asks.


    "I have heard stuff about it online, and it''s horrible." Theo shakes his head.


    Ryker watches the other three talk while chewing on his hotdog. Derek and Jamison trust Theo''s judgement on movies, so the movie about tarot cards is tossed out. Ryker is finishing up his meal when Jamison turns to him.


    "What about you, Ryker? You good if we watch Blair Witch?" Jamison asks.


    Ryker wipes his face with a napkin before nodding enthusiastically.


    "Of course! I love that movie!" Ryker exclaims.


    "We should have known Ryker has seen it... He''s way too into the creepy stuff." Derek laughs.


    Jamison nods in agreement. The boys rise from the table, and migrate over to the living room where their assortment of soda and chips await them. Jamison gets the movie ready. Derek and Theo watch Ryker, waiting for him to sit down. Ryker plops his small self down on one side of the couch. Derek manages to slide into the spot beside him before Theo can.


    "Did you really just do that?" Jamison asks with a knowing smirk.


    "I don''t know what you''re referring to?" Derek plays dumb.


    Theo doesn''t say anything as Jamison sits down between him and Derek. Ryker doesn''t get what they''re talking about, but he''s too excited to watch one of his favorites to care. Jamison reaches behind the couch and flicks the nearby light switch, bathing the room in darkness. The mood is set. The movie starts.


    ~


    The movie is just as good as he remembers it being so far. Ryker watches with rapt attention whilst his friends all show varying degrees of enthusiasm. Derek is laid back casually. Jamison is quietly soaking in the movie. Theo is... asleep.


    "Is he seriously asleep?" Ryker whispers to Derek.


    Derek hears Ryker''s soft words, and turns to look at Theo. Theo''s glasses are slipping down his face, and he''s using the arm of the couch as a headrest.


    "Uh... yeah." Derek replies, whispering back.


    Ryker scoffs quietly. He hates it when his friends don''t pay attention during movies he''s into. Then again, that is probably true for almost everyone. He looks back at the movie.


    The cushion Ryker is resting his head on feels super comfy, but why is it warm? Ryker turns in his seat to look behind him. His doe eyes widen a little.


    Derek has his arm around me?


    Ryker''s heartbeat quickens. The intimate situation causes him to wiggle his hips, squirming in place. Derek''s husky voice causes Ryker to jolt.


    "You comfortable?" Derek asks softly.


    It takes all Ryker has to nod shyly to Derek. The situation is something straight out of Ryker''s shameful dreams.


    Derek gently slides his arm down lower. Ryker''s lower back comes into direct contact with Derek''s hand. The warmth and firmness of Derek''s arm is strangely comforting. Ryker feels his face heating up.


    This is amazing!


    The movie''s more intense scenes pull Ryker''s attention back in again. He loves the realism, and the portrayal of the characters in the movie. The climax is approaching.


    "Relax. You''re all stiff." Derek whispers.


    Derek''s warm minty breath hits Ryker''s cheek as he speaks. Ryker''s brown eyes flit over to Derek''s face. It''s close enough to touch. The rigidness in Ryker''s body is a result of him anticipating the movie''s finale. He takes a deep breath, yet fails to still his beating heart. Derek''s beefy arm behind him and the warmth of his body on his is far too much.


    The movie is picking up, so Ryker puts his eyes back on the screen. Multiple perspectives feature in this final segment. The effect is profound, and the climax is unsettling to say the least. Ryker is shrinking back into Derek''s embrace by the time the credits roll. The warm sturdy guy makes a perfect shelter.


    "That was pretty good." Derek comments.


    Jamison stands, stretching as he pauses the credits. He glances down at Ryker with a complicated look in his gentle eyes.


    "You two look comfy." Jamison comments.


    Ryker''s cheeks flush as he grows more self conscious. Derek wraps his arms fully around Ryker, holding the small effeminate boy in an affectionate manner. Ryker''s surprised squealing wakes Theo with a start.


    "We sure are!" Derek laughs.


    "N-No!" Ryker protests.


    Derek gently lets go, allowing Ryker to move as he pleases. The small boy stands up so fast he nearly falls over. Jamison gives Ryker a once over. Derek looks like a kicked puppy.


    "You okay?" Jamison asks cautiously.


    "I-I''m fine." Ryker stammers.


    Jamison walks over to the closet. He grabs a few blankets, pillows, and assorted linens.


    "Alright, here''s the bedding." Jamison says.


    Theo sleepily takes his helping of bedding. Derek takes his own bundle with muted enthusiasm. Ryker waits expectantly for a bundle, but Jamison shakes his head.


    "You can sleep in my room. Feel free to lock the door, or whatever you wanna do." Jamison explains.


    Ryker shakes his head, protesting by reaching for the linen closet with a stubborn look on his small face. Jamison gently grabs his wrist, barely holding it with an apologetic look. Ryker glares up at him with a huff.


    "I know you are still one of the guys, but right now I think it''s best to keep the cuddling to a minimum, ok?" Jamison says softly.


    I wasn''t cuddling!


    "Fine, but just for now. Once I''m back to normal I want to be treated like usual." Ryker replies.


    Jamison walks Ryker upstairs. Family photos line the walls. Ryker doesn''t remember ever seeing Jamison''s parents. Jamison stops at the third door down, and holds it open for Ryker.


    Ryker steps inside and flicks on the lights. Jamison''s bedroom is almost exactly how Ryker imagined it. Plain monochrome furniture. An exceptionally tidy bed. No clothes on the floor. A guitar sitting in one corner. Ryker brushes his small hand along Jamison''s bed, smiling to himself.


    "It''s funny, this is exactly how I pictured your room." Ryker giggles.


    Jamison smirks at that whilst shaking his head softly. Ryker sits down on the bed with a bounce. He kicks his feet, enjoying how spacious Jamison''s bed is.


    "I didn''t realize I was so predictable." Jamison replies.


    "You''re always super consistent!" Ryker says smilingly.


    Jamison raises his brow at his small friend''s words.


    "Is that a good thing, or are you calling me boring?" Jamison asks.


    Ryker''s soft lips pout as he realizes what Jamison''s thinking. He quickly shakes his head. His dark unstyled hair swishes this way and that.


    "No! You''re awesome! Not boring." Ryker corrects.


    "Well that''s a relief." Jamison chuckles.


    Jamison leans on the doorframe. He gives the room a once over before nodding in satisfaction. He gently pulls the door mostly closed, giving Ryker a soft wave.


    "I''ll see you tomorrow, Zoe." Jamison says.


    Ryker is stunned briefly. Jamison quietly makes his way downstairs while Ryker is still processing the strange warm gooey feeling welling up in his chest.


    He called me Zoe!

 Parental Intervention [8]

    The quiet din of the boys downstairs rouses Ryker from his slumber. The digital alarm clock beside him reads ''9:32''. Ryker sits up with a quiet groan. There''s a set of blackout curtains blocking out the sunlight.


    How can Jamison sleep like this? It''s so dark!


    Ryker moves to stand up, finding his body aching all over. He stretches repeatedly after getting out of bed, but the soreness isn''t going away.


    My hips are killing me!


    The disgruntled teen fumbles through his discarded clothing. He pulls up his panties, but the soft black fabric is digging into him in several places.


    What''s wrong with this stupid thing?


    Ryker shimmies out of his panties before trying on his bra. The bra feels far too tight. The cups are just too small now. Ryker pouts while taking it off.


    Knock knock knock.


    "You awake in there?" Jamison calls out.


    "Yeah, but the stupid clothes you got me shrunk!" Ryker shouts.


    Ryker grabs the sweater, slipping it on without paying much attention. The leggings are stretchy enough to slip into without any issues. Ryker gives himself a brief once over in the mirror before nodding in satisfaction. He steps over to the door, opening it.


    "Jamison? What''s up?" Ryker asks.


    Jamison is standing there with a dumbfounded look on his face. His eyes flicker down briefly before returning to Ryker''s face. He points downstairs with a slightly forced smile.


    "Uh... We were making breakfast. You want any bacon or scrambled eggs?" Jamison explains.


    "Hell yes I do!" Ryker replies enthusiastically.


    Jamison guides Ryker downstairs. The delicious smell of bacon has Ryker salivating.


    Derek and Theo are both in the kitchen. Theo is busy flipping bacon with some tongs. Derek is trying to cook the eggs. He keeps burning them. Ryker looks over Derek''s shoulder curiously. Derek''s focus is broken when he feels Ryker''s breast pressing into him, and he looks over.


    "Holy..." Derek gasps.


    "You''re really bad at this..." Ryker comments.


    The eggs are starting to burn again. Derek''s eyes are looking down at Ryker''s chest instead of the skillet.


    "The eggs are burning." Ryker comments.


    Derek curses while trying to get the fully cooked portion off the skillet.


    "Nice. You''d make a great house husband." Ryker mocks.


    "Oh shut it. You''re the one distracting me." Derek retorts.


    Ryker rolls his eyes at Derek''s excuses. The smell of burning eggs was here long before Ryker arrived. Ryker takes a seat at the table.


    How could I even distract him? Dumbass.


    Ryker watches the two boys finish up as Jamison sits down beside him. Jamison is staring off into space. His slender fingers keep tapping away a rhythm on the table. Theo wipes sweat from his brow as he finishes moving the last few strips of bacon off the frying pan. He carries the bacon to the table with an air of pride.


    "Finally! I''m starving." Ryker cheers.


    Theo sets down the bacon in the center of the table. His bespectacled eyes wander over to Ryker as if to reply, but he stops and his eyes flicker up and down. Ryker is too busy blowing on the hot bacon to notice.


    "Incredible." Theo mumbles.


    "It''s just bacon, dude." Ryker retorts.


    Theo looks like he wants to say something, but instead takes his seat at the table.


    Derek finally finishes the eggs. The eggs are a mess compared to the bacon, but four teenage boys aren''t too picky when it comes to breakfast.


    Ryker munches on forkfuls of egg and bacon. The other three quietly pick at their own food.


    Why are they acting so weird?


    Ryker wipes away the bacon grease from his lips with a napkin before setting down his fork. He gives his friends a narrow eyed stare. First he squints at Jamison, but the tall boy doesn''t make eye contact. He''s tapping out a rhythm on the table. Theo is on his phone.


    What? Theo hates using his phone!


    The strangeness of the situation mounts when Ryker moves his gaze to Derek. Derek is slowly munching on a strip of bacon, but his eyes are on Ryker''s food!


    "Are you like, extra hungry or something?" Ryker questions suspiciously.


    Derek doesn''t realize he''s being addressed for a good few seconds. He blinks when he notices, and swallows his piece of bacon.


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    "Uh... What?" Derek replies.


    "You''re staring at my food! At least finish your own first, dude." Ryker points out.


    "I wasn''t looking at your food..." Derek trails off.


    Somehow the awkward silence gets even quieter. Jamison clears his throat in a feeble attempt to make things feel less weird. Ryker''s eyebrows knit together as he looks around at all of his friends.


    "What the heck is wrong with all of you today?" Ryker asks.


    There''s a quiet ding as someone''s phone goes off. Derek and Jamison pick up their phones in unison. Ryker''s eyebrows hike higher as he watches the three of them texting one another in some sort of three-way conspiratorial group chat.


    "What?! You can''t exclude me! I''m number three! Exclude Theo instead, he''s number four!" Ryker protests.


    "I thought I was number three?" Theo retorts.


    "Doesn''t matter! Don''t exclude me!" Ryker insists.


    "We aren''t excluding you, Ryker." Jamison sighs.


    "Then what do you call this?" Ryker scoffs.


    Ryker spreads his small hands to gesture at the three other boys all looking at their phones. Derek hasn''t looked up from his phone despite the argument. Ryker smirks to himself, and lunges at Derek in an effort to snatch his phone. It succeeds.


    Theo: Should we say something?


    Jamison: Probably..?


    Derek: Bro are those fucking real like what


    Derek falls back in his chair before Ryker can read the entire chat. Derek''s face is flushed as he looks up at Ryker, who''s pinning him to the floor. Ryker glares down at Derek.


    "Are what real?" Ryker interrogates.


    ~


    Derek''s head is pounding when he wakes up. Sunshine illuminates the living room where Jamison and Theo lie sleeping on heaps of bedding. Derek stretches his arms overhead.


    Where''s Ryker?


    The odd absence of their crew''s fourth member strikes Derek as strange. He wanders around the kitchen sleepily, and checks the bathroom.


    Oh wait, he''s upstairs.


    Maybe we should surprise him?


    Derek pushes Theo''s sleeping form off the couch. Theo lets out a startled little yelp as he falls onto Jamison''s sleeping form.


    "What the hell, Derek?!" They both curse in unison.


    Derek holds his hands up in surrender. His smile betraying his lack of remorse. Jamison and Theo stand groggily. Theo dons his glasses while Jamison gives Derek a playful push.


    "Okay so you know how Ryker has been dealing with a lot lately?" Derek starts.


    Jamison slowly nods.


    "So what if we made him breakfast? As a nice surprise." Derek explains.


    ~


    The warmth oh Ryker''s breasts pressing down on Derek''s chest is hard to ignore. Ryker''s question hangs over Derek like a guillotine. Derek steels himself.


    "I uh... Your... Your boobs." Derek admits.


    Derek''s dark eyes watch Ryker''s pale features for a reaction. The little quiver of his bottom lip precedes the reddening of his cheeks. He stands up hurriedly.


    "You guys are jerks!" Ryker snaps.


    Ryker''s slender arms wrap around his torso. His blush is a bright shade of pink. He quickly scampers over to his backpack. Derek stands up with an outstretched arm, but Jamison gently stops him. He shakes his head while Ryker gathers his things.


    "Ryker, wait. I''m sorry!" Derek calls out.


    Ryker glances over his bare shoulder at Derek. The embarrassed pain in his eyes feels like a spear through Derek''s chest. Ryker slams the door on his way out.


    I messed up. Shit.


    ~


    Mason''s afternoon nap is interrupted by a soft knocking on the door. He slowly sits up in his chair. Mason isn''t sure if the knocking sound was a part of his dream, or if someone is knocking on the front door.


    Knock knock knock.


    Well that answers that. Mason gets up from his recliner, and turns off the television. His heavy footsteps betray his size. He approaches the door, and checks the peephole.


    She looks an awful lot like Miranda.


    Mason opens the door with a questioning look. The dark haired girl is about the same height and build as his wife, Miranda. The girl looks both happy to see Mason and simultaneously fearful. Mason wonders why she''s wearing such tight clothing. He wouldn''t want his daughter to wear that, if he had one.


    "Can I help you..?" Mason asks.


    The small girl opens her mouth to speak, but no words come out. The poor girl is starting to tremble. Mason slowly lowers himself to one knee, and speaks softly to her.


    "Hey, it''s okay. I''m not gonna hurt you, kiddo." Mason says softly.


    Mason watches the dark haired girl calm down, and smile a little. She suddenly steps forward and embraces Mason, so he very politely pats her back.


    "I-It''s me, Dad." She mumbles.


    Something clicks immediately in Mason''s head.


    "No wonder you remind me so much of your mother." Mason chuckles.


    Ryker softly squeezes his father for several minutes there on the front porch. Mason rubs his back gently the entire time. Eventually Mason hears footsteps coming up from behind him. He slowly stands.


    "Mason what''re you- Oh." Miranda starts.


    Miranda''s eyes narrow after she looks Ryker up and down. Unlike Mason, she immediately recognizes her child. Ryker shrinks back from her piercing gaze.


    "Young lady, what are you wearing?" Miranda scolds.


    "Uh- Just what Jamison got me?" Ryker stammers.


    Mason catches a dark look in his wife''s eyes as she processes Ryker''s words. She approaches Ryker and embraces him in a gentle hug. Miranda gently pulls away shortly after, and scans Ryker for anything out of the ordinary. She''s just as put off as Mason about how tightly fitting the clothes are on Ryker.


    "Those stupid boys..." Miranda mutters darkly.


    "Honey..." Mason starts.


    "I''m taking her- him- Ryker. I''m taking Ryker to get some proper clothes." Miranda says sternly.


    Miranda gently pulls Ryker inside by the hand, and Mason steps aside. Ryker flashes Mason a little smile that he returns. Miranda quickly takes Ryker out to the garage. Mason walks back over to his recliner, and takes a seat.


    Guess I have a daughter now?


    Not sure. I''ll ask later.


    ~


    The car ride to the mall is depressing for Ryker. He''s squirming in the passenger seat like a worm on a rainy day. His mother is quietly driving the car, but he can see that telltale twitch in her brow. She''s really upset this time.


    "Did those boys do anything to you?" She asks coldly.


    Ryker blinks at the question. His mouth twists into a grimace before he replies.


    "No! Mom, what the heck?" Ryker replies.


    "You came home wearing clothes that didn''t fit, and have clearly been crying." She says clinically.


    Well Derek did say gross things, but he did say sorry.


    Ryker nods slowly. He takes a deep breath before speaking.


    "Jamison bought me this yesterday, but it doesn''t fit anymore." Ryker explains.


    "And why is it that you''re growing and changing so much lately?" His mother asks expectantly.


    This question makes Ryker wince. He can''t deny his friends had a hand in his mysterious supernatural transformation. Ryker clears his throat before explaining himself.


    "Well you see we went looking for the witch-" Ryker starts.


    "You did WHAT?!" Ryker''s mother shouts.


    The car swerves a little before she gets it back under control. She grips the steering wheel a little firmer. Ryker shrinks back into his seat.


    "W-We found her, but we didn''t stay long." Ryker goes on.


    Ryker''s mom maneuvers the car into the mall parking lot.


    "What did you take?" Ryker''s mother presses.


    "Just a potion!" Ryker puts his small hands up.


    Ryker''s mother slows the car to a stop, and puts it in park. She takes a deep breath.


    "And did anyone drink this... potion?" She asks dryly.


    "Well I sort of drank it-" Ryker says.


    His mother facepalms. He goes to speak, but his mother beats him to the punch.


    "Why? Why''d you drink it, honey?" Ryker''s mom asks in exasperation.


    "Derek and Jamison dared me..." Ryker mumbles.


    The silence is palpable.


    "Seriously?" She asks flatly.


    Ryker swallows hard before putting two fingers up.


    "They double dog dared me." Ryker says dramatically.

 To Girl And Back [9]

    Several other mall goers mill about the parking lot. Ryker''s shoulders feel a little chilly, and the fabric of his leggings feels too thin. His mother steps out of the car. She puts one of her coats on Ryker.


    "Wear this. I don''t want you exposing yourself so much." Ryker''s mother insists.


    "What? I was not exposing myself!" Ryker protests.


    "Honey your tits are basically on full display with how tight that sweater is." Ryker''s mother deadpans.


    Ryker''s eyebrows go up and his soft lips part in shock. He stares at his mother for several seconds. She gently closes his mouth by pushing up his jaw, and zips up the coat he''s borrowing.


    "Mom!" Ryker sputters.


    Ryker''s Mother doesn''t reply. She guides Ryker by the hand. Ryker can feel heat suffusing his cheeks as he replays his mother''s rude words in his head.


    Did I really look that slutty?


    ~


    The quiet din of the jazz music playing over the mall speakers helps calm Ryker down as his mother drags him into a department store. He twirls a lock of black hair around his finger nervously. His mother flags down a passing employee, and puts on her best smile.


    "Excuse me, could you take my daughter''s measurements? She''s had a bit of a growth spurt." Ryker''s mother fibs.


    "Oh, of course! Right this way." The employee replies cheerily.


    Ryker struggles not to smile at how being referred to as ''my daughter'' makes him feel. The employee guides them into a back room where she takes out a tape measure and a little notepad.


    "Go ahead and get undressed. I''m just going to get your band size, cup size, and a few measurements for your hips and such." The employee explains.


    Ryker''s lip quivers slightly. He takes a deep breath before pulling off his mother''s coat. The employee is polite enough not to stare as Ryker pulls the sweater off over his head.


    "That''s good enough. Your leggings won''t get in the way." She says reassuringly.


    Ryker sighs in relief. He patiently follows the kind lady''s instructions as she takes his measurements. The process is a bit intimate, yet Ryker doesn''t find it exciting in the slightest.


    "Thanks for the help!" Ryker''s mother thanks.


    "No problem!" The employee replies.


    "T-Thank you." Ryker manages to eek out.


    This earns him an amused smile from the employee. She leaves them to their shopping, and Ryker''s mom takes charge. Five new bras go into the shopping basket.


    "Mom, why are you getting so much?" Ryker asks.


    "Well you need clothes, don''t you? Can''t go to school naked." Ryker''s mother jokes.


    "I am NOT going to school like this!" Ryker protests.


    Ryker''s mother places a few matching pairs of panties into the shopping basket before taking a moment to consider Ryker''s words.


    "Ryker, do you want to be a girl?" Ryker''s mother asks carefully.


    Ryker hesitates for half a second before shaking his head. Ryker''s mother puts her fingertip to her lips. She squints at her son thoughtfully.


    "Alright, then we''ll need to go find that witch." She says seriously.


    The image of that vile crone sitting behind the shop counter sends a shiver down Ryker''s spine. He clutches his arms as if cold, and shakes his head.


    "W-We can''t. She''ll curse or kill us!" He hisses.


    "Honey, Esmarelda is not evil." Ryker''s mother replies calmly.


    "...You know her by name?" Ryker asks incredulously.


    Some cute athletic shorts, a pair of sneakers, and a new couple V-neck tops wind up in the shopping basket. Ryker''s mother turns to regard her son as they approach the cashier.


    "She''s been around for generations. She''s like a force of nature. If she doesn''t hold a grudge against you then she''ll change you back to the way you were before." Ryker''s mother explains.


    Ryker purses his lips. The cashier scans the items, and Ryker''s mother pays for them. Butterflies flutter around Ryker''s tummy as his mother hands him the new clothing.


    "Now go get changed, honey." Ryker''s mother gently prods him.


    Ryker makes his way into the changing room. The quiet din of the mall is muffled here. Ryker mulls over his mother''s words while trying to get over Esmarelda''s uncanny appearance.


    Can I really get that witch to fix me?


    A soft sigh escapes Ryker''s lips as he removes his old clothing. The tight fit was getting uncomfortable. He turns to his new clothes, pulling out the undergarments.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    First he pulls on the new panties. Ryker smiles at the comforting sensation wearing fresh underwear brings him. The bra is next. Apparently that sales girl was right, Ryker does need the support!


    Ryker slips into the new V-neck top and loves the way it shows a little skin. He pulls on the shorts next. They''re breezy, but great for running around. He sits down on the bench and pulls off his punk boots.


    Ryker slips on the sneakers, and finds them more practical than his boots. He stands up, checking out his new look inn the mirror. A quiet giggles escapes his lips.


    "You done in there?" Ryker''s mother asks softly from outside.


    Ryker glances at his feminine curves in the mirror. The line of his hips rounding out to meet his thighs. The soft heft of the weight on his chest. The lengthy dark hair framing his pretty face.


    Why do I feel kind of sad?


    Ryker pushes open the changing room door with a blank look on his face. His mother gives him a quick once over before smiling wide.


    "You remind me of my younger self." She remarks softly.


    An inexplicable knot of painful emotions writhes in Ryker''s chest as his mother says those words. He feels like he''s yearning for something he cannot have. He shakes his head, his dark long hair swishing.


    The potion is messing with my head again.


    ~


    Chilling winds sap the warmth from Ryker''s clothes as he follows his mother into the forest. The full moon illuminates the forest, yet it is waning. Ryker zips up the top half of the jacket he''s borrowing from his mother while glancing over his shoulder.


    "Mom, are you sure this is safe?" Ryker asks cautiously.


    Ryker is careful to plant his feet in the same places his mother steps. The thick leaf cover is hiding the path from view, and many tree roots lie in wait.


    "Yes, I am. I''ve heard my fair share of first hand accounts about Esmarelda." Ryker''s mother assures.


    The cool wind isn''t too bad once Ryker''s blood is pumping. His legs are burning a little bit as he keeps up with his mother. The soft hooting of an owl in the trees makes Ryker flinch.


    What if this is a mistake?


    Doubts linger in Ryker''s mind as he catches glimpses of purple light through the trees. Ryker''s mother slows to a stop. She''s watching the swaying purple lanterns. Ryker gets goosebumps just looking at the light.


    Ryker''s mom gently takes his hand. He lets his mother guide him carefully toward the witch''s mysterious shop. Twigs snap underfoot. The eerie carved words on the side of the shop catch Ryker''s attention just like they did the first time.


    "Esmarelda''s Emporium." Ryker reads aloud.


    The creepy shop on wheels reminds Ryker of a pitcher plant; It lures you in with promises of magic, but all you get is a nasty curse. Ryker''s mother calmly approaches the shop''s door. She turns to her son with a confident smile.


    "Shall we?" She asks.


    Something in Ryker''s chest pangs at his mother''s question. There''s a part of Ryker that wants to run away. To simply turn tail and run away from the witch''s shop forever. Ryker bottles that part of himself up before it grows any stronger.


    I have to do this.


    He nods to his mother, and she opens the door to the emporium. Ryker follows her into the expansive interior. It''s definitely bigger on the inside. The hair on the back of his neck stands on end at the sight before him.


    There''s no merchandise this time, nor any shelving. The entire space is one big empty floor with a counter sitting across from the door. Behind that counter sits a gnarled old being who was once human. She parts her brittle lips, and utters a warning.


    "Turn back lest you perish,


    Your ichor you must cherish."


    The witch''s presence feels far more dangerous than it did on Wednesday. Her words hang in the air like humming magical blades. Ryker knows she could kill him, yet he feels strangely calm.


    "I want you to turn me back." Ryker says calmly.


    The crooked witch raises both her thin twisted hands up in a casual gesture unbefitting a witch. The woman''s eyes reflect Ryker''s blank expression as she lets out another rasping rhyme. The rasping tone turns to powerful magically amplified words as she speaks them.


    "This I cannot do,


    The spell is all you."


    Ryker frowns at her words. The magic she''s talking about is out of his control, or at least that''d how he understands it. He can''t live his life with the body this potion is forcing onto him. He balls his small fists. This witch has to change him back. She has to make him normal again.


    "This stupid spell is ruining my life! That label said it would give me the ideal body, and instead it turned me into a freak!" Ryker shouts.


    Ryker''s mother gently grips his arm. She''s looking at him with wide fearful eyes. The witch herself smiles a wide snaggle toothed smile. The unmistakable smell of rot wafts from her maw as she opens it. She lets out another whisper which quickly morphs into a booming chant.


    "If this magic you wish to bring,


    From within your heart you must sing."


    Ryker''s ears ring at the volume of the witch''s words. This rhyme feels far stronger than the others. There''s magic in the soundwaves that buffet Ryker, or at least that''s how it feels. The gears of an unseen machine twist into motion as Ryker feels something pop inside himself. The crooked witch raises her gnarled finger. Ryker''s mother is shouting something he can''t hear.


    Here it comes.


    Strange magic flows around Ryker as the witch twirls her finger through the air in an incomprehensible pattern. She is conducting an unseen orchestra of witchcraft, and Ryker can feel his body changing in time to the nonexistent music.


    I''m going back to how I was.


    Salty wet tears flow down Ryker''s cheeks. There''s an unpleasant tugging sensation on his skin. It feels like some sort of monster is trying to claw its way out of his flesh, yet it doesn''t hurt. His bones are molding like putty. His muscle is shifting like sand in an hourglass. Then it all stops.


    Ryker falls to the ground like a broken doll.


    "Honey?! Are you alright?" Ryker''s mother voices her concern.


    Ryker blinks away hot tears. The no longer full moon illuminates his distinctly masculine features. The beautiful night sky looks as flat as a painting to him. Ryker feels something is lost, but he can''t possibly understand what. Ryker''s attention turns to his mother.


    "I-" Ryker starts, but stops upon hearing his voice.


    It''s so grating.


    "...I''m fine, Mom." Ryker says.


    Ryker''s mother pulls him up by his hand. Her smaller hands are dwarfed by his larger ones. He has to look down to make eye contact with her now. She wears a gentle smile as she gently points to Ryker''s clothing.


    "We should get you changed..." She says gently.


    The previously perfect top is now being stretched around his wider shoulders and masculine frame. The shorts he was wearing are so tight they''d function as underwear. The bra is completely destroyed. Ryker can imagine what happened to the panties.


    Ryker''s mother guides him back to the car by the moonlight. The sneakers feel far too small on his feet. They fit him poorly and squeeze his toes terribly. The quiet hooting of an owl falls on deaf ears. Ryker is not paying attention to his surroundings.


    "I brought some of your old stuff." Ryker''s mother reassures.


    The car is within sight. Ryker''s mother is quick to remotely unlock the vehicle. Ryker''s blank stare flits to the neatly placed clothing. It''s just one of his pairs of baggy jeans and a shirt. His hoodie is there, too.


    "Thanks, Mom." Ryker says lifelessly.


    Ryker''s eyes avoid his bare body as he changes in the backseat. The articles of feminine clothing are peeled back one after another. It feels like he''s a monster peeling back fake human skin to reveal his revolting interior. Ryker''s mind latches on to that imagery as he finishes putting on his old clothing.


    Like a monster.

 Back To School [10]

    Several other mall goers mill about the parking lot. Ryker''s shoulders feel a little chilly, and the fabric of his leggings feels too thin. His mother steps out of the car. She puts one of her coats on Ryker.


    "Wear this. I don''t want you exposing yourself so much." Ryker''s mother insists.


    "What? I was not exposing myself!" Ryker protests.


    "Honey your tits are basically on full display with how tight that sweater is." Ryker''s mother deadpans.


    Ryker''s eyebrows go up and his soft lips part in shock. He stares at his mother for several seconds. She gently closes his mouth by pushing up his jaw, and zips up the coat he''s borrowing.


    "Mom!" Ryker sputters.


    Ryker''s Mother doesn''t reply. She guides Ryker by the hand. Ryker can feel heat suffusing his cheeks as he replays his mother''s rude words in his head.


    Did I really look that slutty?


    ~


    The quiet din of the jazz music playing over the mall speakers helps calm Ryker down as his mother drags him into a department store. He twirls a lock of black hair around his finger nervously. His mother flags down a passing employee, and puts on her best smile.


    "Excuse me, could you take my daughter''s measurements? She''s had a bit of a growth spurt." Ryker''s mother fibs.


    "Oh, of course! Right this way." The employee replies cheerily.


    Ryker struggles not to smile at how being referred to as ''my daughter'' makes him feel. The employee guides them into a back room where she takes out a tape measure and a little notepad.


    "Go ahead and get undressed. I''m just going to get your band size, cup size, and a few measurements for your hips and such." The employee explains.


    Ryker''s lip quivers slightly. He takes a deep breath before pulling off his mother''s coat. The employee is polite enough not to stare as Ryker pulls the sweater off over his head.


    "That''s good enough. Your leggings won''t get in the way." She says reassuringly.


    Ryker sighs in relief. He patiently follows the kind lady''s instructions as she takes his measurements. The process is a bit intimate, yet Ryker doesn''t find it exciting in the slightest.


    "Thanks for the help!" Ryker''s mother thanks.


    "No problem!" The employee replies.


    "T-Thank you." Ryker manages to eek out.


    This earns him an amused smile from the employee. She leaves them to their shopping, and Ryker''s mom takes charge. Five new bras go into the shopping basket.


    "Mom, why are you getting so much?" Ryker asks.


    "Well you need clothes, don''t you? Can''t go to school naked." Ryker''s mother jokes.


    "I am NOT going to school like this!" Ryker protests.


    Ryker''s mother places a few matching pairs of panties into the shopping basket before taking a moment to consider Ryker''s words.


    "Ryker, do you want to be a girl?" Ryker''s mother asks carefully.


    Ryker hesitates for half a second before shaking his head. Ryker''s mother puts her fingertip to her lips. She squints at her son thoughtfully.


    "Alright, then we''ll need to go find that witch." She says seriously.


    The image of that vile crone sitting behind the shop counter sends a shiver down Ryker''s spine. He clutches his arms as if cold, and shakes his head.


    "W-We can''t. She''ll curse or kill us!" He hisses.


    "Honey, Esmarelda is not evil." Ryker''s mother replies calmly.


    "...You know her by name?" Ryker asks incredulously.


    Some cute athletic shorts, a pair of sneakers, and a new couple V-neck tops wind up in the shopping basket. Ryker''s mother turns to regard her son as they approach the cashier.


    "She''s been around for generations. She''s like a force of nature. If she doesn''t hold a grudge against you then she''ll change you back to the way you were before." Ryker''s mother explains.


    Ryker purses his lips. The cashier scans the items, and Ryker''s mother pays for them. Butterflies flutter around Ryker''s tummy as his mother hands him the new clothing.


    "Now go get changed, honey." Ryker''s mother gently prods him.


    Ryker makes his way into the changing room. The quiet din of the mall is muffled here. Ryker mulls over his mother''s words while trying to get over Esmarelda''s uncanny appearance.


    Can I really get that witch to fix me?


    A soft sigh escapes Ryker''s lips as he removes his old clothing. The tight fit was getting uncomfortable. He turns to his new clothes, pulling out the undergarments.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    First he pulls on the new panties. Ryker smiles at the comforting sensation wearing fresh underwear brings him. The bra is next. Apparently that sales girl was right, Ryker does need the support!


    Ryker slips into the new V-neck top and loves the way it shows a little skin. He pulls on the shorts next. They''re breezy, but great for running around. He sits down on the bench and pulls off his punk boots.


    Ryker slips on the sneakers, and finds them more practical than his boots. He stands up, checking out his new look inn the mirror. A quiet giggles escapes his lips.


    "You done in there?" Ryker''s mother asks softly from outside.


    Ryker glances at his feminine curves in the mirror. The line of his hips rounding out to meet his thighs. The soft heft of the weight on his chest. The lengthy dark hair framing his pretty face.


    Why do I feel kind of sad?


    Ryker pushes open the changing room door with a blank look on his face. His mother gives him a quick once over before smiling wide.


    "You remind me of my younger self." She remarks softly.


    An inexplicable knot of painful emotions writhes in Ryker''s chest as his mother says those words. He feels like he''s yearning for something he cannot have. He shakes his head, his dark long hair swishing.


    The potion is messing with my head again.


    ~


    Chilling winds sap the warmth from Ryker''s clothes as he follows his mother into the forest. The full moon illuminates the forest, yet it is waning. Ryker zips up the top half of the jacket he''s borrowing from his mother while glancing over his shoulder.


    "Mom, are you sure this is safe?" Ryker asks cautiously.


    Ryker is careful to plant his feet in the same places his mother steps. The thick leaf cover is hiding the path from view, and many tree roots lie in wait.


    "Yes, I am. I''ve heard my fair share of first hand accounts about Esmarelda." Ryker''s mother assures.


    The cool wind isn''t too bad once Ryker''s blood is pumping. His legs are burning a little bit as he keeps up with his mother. The soft hooting of an owl in the trees makes Ryker flinch.


    What if this is a mistake?


    Doubts linger in Ryker''s mind as he catches glimpses of purple light through the trees. Ryker''s mother slows to a stop. She''s watching the swaying purple lanterns. Ryker gets goosebumps just looking at the light.


    Ryker''s mom gently takes his hand. He lets his mother guide him carefully toward the witch''s mysterious shop. Twigs snap underfoot. The eerie carved words on the side of the shop catch Ryker''s attention just like they did the first time.


    "Esmarelda''s Emporium." Ryker reads aloud.


    The creepy shop on wheels reminds Ryker of a pitcher plant; It lures you in with promises of magic, but all you get is a nasty curse. Ryker''s mother calmly approaches the shop''s door. She turns to her son with a confident smile.


    "Shall we?" She asks.


    Something in Ryker''s chest pangs at his mother''s question. There''s a part of Ryker that wants to run away. To simply turn tail and run away from the witch''s shop forever. Ryker bottles that part of himself up before it grows any stronger.


    I have to do this.


    He nods to his mother, and she opens the door to the emporium. Ryker follows her into the expansive interior. It''s definitely bigger on the inside. The hair on the back of his neck stands on end at the sight before him.


    There''s no merchandise this time, nor any shelving. The entire space is one big empty floor with a counter sitting across from the door. Behind that counter sits a gnarled old being who was once human. She parts her brittle lips, and utters a warning.


    "Turn back lest you perish,


    Your ichor you must cherish."


    The witch''s presence feels far more dangerous than it did on Wednesday. Her words hang in the air like humming magical blades. Ryker knows she could kill him, yet he feels strangely calm.


    "I want you to turn me back." Ryker says calmly.


    The crooked witch raises both her thin twisted hands up in a casual gesture unbefitting a witch. The woman''s eyes reflect Ryker''s blank expression as she lets out another rasping rhyme. The rasping tone turns to powerful magically amplified words as she speaks them.


    "This I cannot do,


    The spell is all you."


    Ryker frowns at her words. The magic she''s talking about is out of his control, or at least that''d how he understands it. He can''t live his life with the body this potion is forcing onto him. He balls his small fists. This witch has to change him back. She has to make him normal again.


    "This stupid spell is ruining my life! That label said it would give me the ideal body, and instead it turned me into a freak!" Ryker shouts.


    Ryker''s mother gently grips his arm. She''s looking at him with wide fearful eyes. The witch herself smiles a wide snaggle toothed smile. The unmistakable smell of rot wafts from her maw as she opens it. She lets out another whisper which quickly morphs into a booming chant.


    "If this magic you wish to bring,


    From within your heart you must sing."


    Ryker''s ears ring at the volume of the witch''s words. This rhyme feels far stronger than the others. There''s magic in the soundwaves that buffet Ryker, or at least that''s how it feels. The gears of an unseen machine twist into motion as Ryker feels something pop inside himself. The crooked witch raises her gnarled finger. Ryker''s mother is shouting something he can''t hear.


    Here it comes.


    Strange magic flows around Ryker as the witch twirls her finger through the air in an incomprehensible pattern. She is conducting an unseen orchestra of witchcraft, and Ryker can feel his body changing in time to the nonexistent music.


    I''m going back to how I was.


    Salty wet tears flow down Ryker''s cheeks. There''s an unpleasant tugging sensation on his skin. It feels like some sort of monster is trying to claw its way out of his flesh, yet it doesn''t hurt. His bones are molding like putty. His muscle is shifting like sand in an hourglass. Then it all stops.


    Ryker falls to the ground like a broken doll.


    "Honey?! Are you alright?" Ryker''s mother voices her concern.


    Ryker blinks away hot tears. The no longer full moon illuminates his distinctly masculine features. The beautiful night sky looks as flat as a painting to him. Ryker feels something is lost, but he can''t possibly understand what. Ryker''s attention turns to his mother.


    "I-" Ryker starts, but stops upon hearing his voice.


    It''s so grating.


    "...I''m fine, Mom." Ryker says.


    Ryker''s mother pulls him up by his hand. Her smaller hands are dwarfed by his larger ones. He has to look down to make eye contact with her now. She wears a gentle smile as she gently points to Ryker''s clothing.


    "We should get you changed..." She says gently.


    The previously perfect top is now being stretched around his wider shoulders and masculine frame. The shorts he was wearing are so tight they''d function as underwear. The bra is completely destroyed. Ryker can imagine what happened to the panties.


    Ryker''s mother guides him back to the car by the moonlight. The sneakers feel far too small on his feet. They fit him poorly and squeeze his toes terribly. The quiet hooting of an owl falls on deaf ears. Ryker is not paying attention to his surroundings.


    "I brought some of your old stuff." Ryker''s mother reassures.


    The car is within sight. Ryker''s mother is quick to remotely unlock the vehicle. Ryker''s blank stare flits to the neatly placed clothing. It''s just one of his pairs of baggy jeans and a shirt. His hoodie is there, too.


    "Thanks, Mom." Ryker says lifelessly.


    Ryker''s eyes avoid his bare body as he changes in the backseat. The articles of feminine clothing are peeled back one after another. It feels like he''s a monster peeling back fake human skin to reveal his revolting interior. Ryker''s mind latches on to that imagery as he finishes putting on his old clothing.


    Like a monster.

 Sing From Your Heart [11]

    Some students drive, some ride the bus, and others walk. Ryker is part of the third group, and he is alone. Jamison, Theo, and Derek are headed for downtown. Ryker can see them walking the opposite direction. He turns away, and starts the long walk home.


    The suburbs are a quiet place. Occasionally a car will drive by, but not often. Birdsong mixes with the sounds of a lawnmower and the barking of a dog. It''s an atmosphere Ryker is comfortable in.


    Ryker''s home looks far less cozy without his parents'' vehicles parked out front. The windows are all dark. His house resembles an empty skeleton of an animal long dead. Ryker unlocks the front door, and steps inside.


    It''s uncomfortably quiet inside. The din of a suburban neighborhood is nowhere to be found. Ryker takes off his shoes by the door, and walks upstairs.


    His room is just as he left it this morning. Ryker tosses his backpack aside. He looks into the closet mirror. The boy staring back at him from the mirror looks dead on his feet. His shoulders are broad, yet his hoodie obscures them. He''s tall too, but he''s slouching to appear shorter. The boy''s short dark hair is not short, but not long either. Ryker doesn''t recognize this stranger in the mirror.


    I should sleep.


    Ryker walks over to his unmade bed, and unceremoniously flops onto it. He''s face down in the pillow, and fully clothed. Neither of these things impede him as he quickly embraces unconsciousness.


    ~


    Quiet knocking on Ryker''s bedroom door wakes him from a dream he can''t recall. He rubs the sleep from his eyes. His mother is giving him a concerned look from the doorway.


    "You ok, honey?" She asks gently.


    Ryker glances over at the closet mirror. That same unfamiliar boy is staring back at him. He looks over to his concerned mother, and smiles. This smile is a cheap imitation of happiness.


    "Yeah, I''m good. Just felt like napping." Ryker lies.


    "Okay... Let me know if you need to talk, honey." She says.


    Ryker watches his mother leave with a blank look on his face. He stands up from his bed, and looks into the closet mirror once more. The boy looking back smiles. His smile looks wrong. It''s like the boy''s face is a mask, and he''s covering up something inside himself.


    I need to leave.


    Ryker doesn''t bother grabbing his phone or backpack on his way out. He''s careful on his way down the stairs, so they don''t creak. The living room is quiet. The clock reads 11:40. Ryker puts on his torn up sneakers, and quietly exits the house.


    The chorus of crickets chirping does little to comfort Ryker. He walks down the sidewalk aimlessly. There isn''t a specific place he is going, but his feet carry him regardless. The stars are so pretty, but the streetlights make it difficult to see them all. Ryker starts jogging.


    The houses are getting sparser now. Empty lots and trees are growing more common as Ryker jogs away from his home. The distant sounds of cars are fading fast. The streetlights are few and far between here. Ryker slows to a stop.


    Why am I here?


    Ryker is standing at the gravel road leading to Esmarelda''s Emporium. He can see the partial moon hanging in the sky overhead. The trees form a wall of forest before him. Ryker breaks into a run.


    When Ryker and his friends first heard about Esmarelda''s Emporium, they were doubtful. Rumors of witches in the woods normally turn out to be just that: rumors.


    Ryker''s sneakers crunch over the gravel as he runs. His lungs burn as he picks up the pace. He ignores the pain in his calves in favor of moving forward.


    Jamison was the first to believe in the witch. His friend who graduated last year told him some stories about her. Stories about students getting into strange unexplainable events. Jamison convinced the rest of the crew.


    The howl of a wolf doesn''t phase Ryker. His legs burn and ache as he sprints down the old gravel trail, but he doesn''t really feel it. Stars overhead are more visible than ever. A distant reminder of the beauty he doesn''t have.


    Jamison explained to the other three how the witch''s shop contains all sorts of magical merchandise, but it only appears during the full moon. The location is always the same spot in the woods outside of town, so it isn''t hard to find.


    Ryker''s heart is hammering in his chest as he runs past the end of the gravel road. There are fewer trees here. His foot catches on a hole in the soil.


    Pain wracks Ryker''s body as he hits the ground hard. Thankfully nothing is broken. He sits up, breathing heavily. His heart is pounding even now. The hole which tripped him is unmistakably a rut made by a wheel.


    No.


    Ryker spins around, and then stands up. Four identical indents in the soil here in this clearing. The marks produced by a vehicle sitting in the same place repeatedly.


    Please.


    The moon''s glow isn''t as bright as it was last night. Ryker slowly stares up at the waning moon. Tears trickle down his cheeks. The moon is not full.


    Ryker plops back down onto his knees in the dirt. He knew the witch''s shop wouldn''t be here. How could he forget the way it vanished last night? He didn''t want to believe that his chance was gone, but he knew better.


    "Change me back!" Ryker shouts.


    His hoarse plea is drowned out by the forest. Ryker''s cry for help goes unheard, and he sobs. Another plea for help bubbles up, and this time the words warp as he speaks them. The sound of his voice is amplified as it passes his lips. The air trembles.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "Make me a girl!"


    Ryker has no time to be surprised by the distinctly magical sound of his own voice. There''s a familiar popping sensation deep inside himself. Intangible gears turn, and a tugging sensation pulls Ryker''s body from all directions.


    It all ends just as suddenly as it started. Ryker is sitting in the dirt. Tears still stain his face. He raises his hands up to inspect them.


    It worked?


    Zoe stares in fascination at her small effeminate hands. She quickly scans her slender arms, and her widened hips. Everything is different. She cries tears of relief. Her happy sobs fill the empty clearing where Esmarelda''s Emporium once stood.


    ~


    A girl quietly hums to herself as she walks down the sidewalk. The dirty clothing she wears is much too big for her small frame, but she doesn''t mind.


    "Hehe." Zoe giggles to herself.


    Zoe enjoys the feminine lilt of her own voice. The way her hips move differently when she walks. The way her hair swishes this way and that. The pleasant comfort she feels in her body.


    Being a girl is the best!


    She shivers when a cold gust of wind blows past. The warmth of her own bed sounds perfect right about now, so she starts jogging home.


    It doesn''t take long to get there. Zoe is careful when she opens the door. The interior is dark and quiet. She takes off her now oversized sneakers by the door, and carefully tiptoes upstairs.


    The rather messy state of her bedroom puts a little frown on Zoe''s face. She quietly gathers up the dirty clothing into a basket, and carries it into the laundry room. She makes a mental note to turn on the washer before school tomorrow, and returns to her room.


    I should probably get some sleep.


    Tomorrow is a school day!


    Zoe strips off her nasty smelling boy clothes, and clambers into bed. The smell of her bedding isn''t the best, but that can wait until tomorrow. For now Zoe enjoys the feeling of the blanket on her smooth bare skin. She drifts off to sleep with a smile on her face.


    ~


    The beeping of Ryker''s alarm rouses him from his slumber. He blinks away the vestiges of sleep, yawning softly. He looks down at himself curiously.


    It wasn''t a dream!


    Zoe grins immediately upon realizing she''s still a girl. She slips out of bed and stands in front of her closet mirror with a proud smirk. The attractive young lady in the mirror is her, and she is definitely a girl.


    Knock knock knock.


    The color drains from Zoe''s face as she realizes her mother is about to enter the room. Zoe''s thoughts churn as her own biases threaten to overwhelm her.


    Mom was cool with it before, but that wasn''t my choice.


    Only a freak would choose to turn into a girl!


    Quick thinking puts an idea in Zoe''s head. She quickly whispers to herself, and the thrum of magic reverberates throughout the room.


    "Make me a boy." Zoe whispers.


    The pop and sudden tugging pulls Ryker back into his original body. He frowns at what''s reflected in the mirror. His mother opens the door.


    "Ah!" She exclaims.


    Ryker''s mother immediately shuts the door upon seeing her son isn''t decent. She speaks through the closed door in an apologetic tone.


    "Sorry, honey. Breakfast is ready downstairs!" She says.


    Ryker blushes at the embarrassing situation, but mention of breakfast catches his attention. He worked up an appetite running around last night.


    Oh, I should start the laundry.


    Ryker gets himself dressed in the only outfit he left for himself last night, and grabs his backpack. A quick detour to the laundry room to start the washer, and then he''s making his way downstairs.


    "Sorry about earlier, I''ll respect your privacy from now on, honey." Ryker''s mother apologizes.


    "It''s fine, Mom. Thanks." Ryker replies.


    The delicious omelets his mother prepared distract Ryker from the unpleasant sensation of his own body. He smiles at the thought of returning to his girl body later.


    "You look happier than yesterday. Something good happen?" Ryker''s mother asks.


    "You could say that, yeah." Ryker replies with a smile.


    "Is it a girl?" She asks with a smirk.


    Ryker chokes on his omelet before shaking his head. He washes his food down with some orange juice before answering her.


    "N-No, Mom." Ryker denies.


    "Alright, alright. I''ll see you after school, honey." She says.


    "Bye, love you Mom." Ryker bids farewell.


    "Love you too." Ryker''s mother says on her way out the door.


    Ryker''s omelet breakfast is over, so he puts his dirty dishes in the sink. The image of his hardworking mother scrubbing the dishes every night gives Ryker pause. He frowns, and starts scrubbing his dirty dishes clean himself.


    It''s the least I can do for her.


    It only takes a couple minutes for Ryker to finish that chore. He makes his way back into the living room while pulling out his phone. There''s some group chat messages from last night.


    Jamison: Where are you Derek?


    Derek: I''m destroying some tacos


    Jamison: Wait so you aren''t even in the arcade


    Derek: Next door, tacos


    Ryker can''t help but smile at his friends antics. He almost wishes he had gone with them, but magic powers beats downtown any day. Ryker keeps reading the messages.


    Derek: Theo ur lame for dipping so early


    Theo: My mom picked me up


    Theo: I had no choice


    Derek: Whatever, mommy''s boy


    Jamison: Derek and I are going home anyways


    Theo: lol


    Ryker slips into his old sneakers before a thought crosses his mind. He glances at small sneakers he wore as a girl and then at his backpack. An ominous smirk plays upon his lips as he dashes back upstairs. After rooting around for a while he finds what he''s looking for: the extra girl clothes.


    Thank god Mom didn''t toss them out yet!


    Stuffing the girl clothing into his backpack''s darkest recesses, Ryker hurries back downstairs. He stops, grabbing his smaller sneakers and putting them into his bag as well. Ryker opens the door and heads off to school with a spring in his step.


    ~


    Jamison yawns softly as he walks to school. Other students walking the same route around him, but none are his friends. Jamison''s phone buzzes. He pulls it out to see a notification from his messaging app. Ryker''s texting him.


    Ryker: I c u


    Jamison: What? Isn''t your house like in the opposite direction?


    Ryker: Hehe :)


    Jamison looks up from his phone with a perplexed frown. He spins in a circle slowly in an effort to spot Ryker. He spots a vaguely familiar pair of jeans and shirt. Jamison takes a few big strides to reach Ryker''s hiding place.


    "Why''d you come way out here?" Jamison asks.


    "Just felt like seeing you!" Ryker replies with a smile.


    Something is different today.


    Ryker is walking alongside Jamison now, but the atmosphere is completely different from yesterday. Jamison thinks back to last night. Family time could have helped Ryker feel better. It might explain why Ryker is smiling so much.


    "You seem better today. Something happen?" Jamison asks.


    "Oh something did, but it''s a secret." Ryker replies cheekily.


    This surprises Jamison. It''s not that Ryker would never be happy, but he wouldn''t playfully mention having a secret. Ryker normally wouldn''t go out of his way to walk to school with Jamison. Ryker wouldn''t normally smile so much.


    "Weird." Jamison mumbles.


    "What is?" Ryker asks.


    "Oh, nothing. Do you think you''ll be too busy to hang out tonight?" Jamison asks.


    Ryker purses his lips as if in deep thought. Jamison watches Ryker''s face go through a range of emotions briefly. The school is in view now.


    "Yeah I''ll be busy tonight, but I promise I''ll hang out after that!" Ryker rambles.


    Jamison lets the disappointment show on his face, but he doesn''t blame Ryker. He smiles down at Ryker before giving him a noogie. Ryker yelps at the way his friends ruffles his hair.


    "It''s cool, dude." Jamison assures.


    Jamison''s expression shifts to one of concern. He could see Ryker flinch just slightly.


    What was that about?

 The Strongest Armor [12]

    Ryker''s eye follows the second hand of the clock. He''s smiling to himself as he waits for lunch to arrive. Mrs. Johnson clears her throat, and calls upon him to answer a question. Ryker only notices that he''s being addressed when his seat partner, Tracy, taps his leg beneath the desk.


    "Mr. Kim, could you please tell me what this chapter tells us about the setting of the story?" Mrs. Johnson asks.


    Ryker winces, feeling pained by the word ''mister''. The current chapter is a mystery to Ryker, so he glances at the board for the answer. Unfortunately, the chapter number isn''t listed anywhere.


    "Chapter ten..." Tracy whispers.


    Tracy''s hint helps Ryker come up with an answer. He actually read that chapter earlier today, so he quickly formulates an answer.


    "That chapter reveals the name of the city the story is set in, something that hasn''t been detailed anywhere in the story prior to this chapter. It also mentions a new area in the town, adding depth to the setting." Ryker explains.


    "Good to see you''re paying attention." Mrs. Johnson replies.


    Thankfully Mrs. Johnson''s lecture is coming to an end. She claps to get everyone''s full attention before smiling warmly at the class.


    "You all did a great job today, so the last few minutes are free." Mrs. Johnson announces.


    The classroom erupts into chatter. Ryker takes the opportunity to turn to Tracy. The sporty looking girl is putting away her notebook, and turns to smile at him.


    "Thanks for helping me, I was totally out of it." Ryker thanks her with a grin.


    "No problem! That''s what friends are for, right?" Tracy replies.


    Ryker packs away his things while listening to Tracy. Her choice of words catches his attention. Being in class with Tracy is one thing, but they have hardly spoken. Are they really friends?


    "Are we friends..? Not that I don''t want to be- I just mean I wasn''t sure since we only talk in class, and-" Ryker rambles awkwardly.


    "Haha, yes. We are totally friends!" Tracy affirms.


    Tracy pulls out her phone, and taps at it for a second. She slides it over to Ryker.


    "You said we never talk out of class, so I figure, why not fix that?" Tracy explains.


    Ryker nods slowly, and picks up her phone. He goes on autopilot as he types out his phone number and name. His thumb taps the save button as he finishes typing, and he hands it back to Tracy with a dopey grin.


    "Thanks. I just didn''t think I was friend material, you know?" Ryker says sheepishly.


    "Aw, no way! You''re a great guy." Tracy replies.


    Ryker flinches at her unintentionally biting words. He forces a smile and shrugs.


    "What can I say, I try?" Ryker forces a laugh.


    The bell rings before Tracy has a chance to say anything more. Ryker slings his bag over his shoulder. Tracy opens her mouth to speak, but Ryker is walking out in a hurry. She frowns, glancing down at her phone. She tilts her head curiously.


    Who''s Zoe?


    ~


    Ryker can barely contain his excitement as he ducks into the one unisex bathroom the school has. It''s a little out of the way, but the privacy is worth it. Ryker quickly pulls out his girl clothes, and begins to undress. Once fully bare he sings the magic words.


    "Make me a girl."


    Zoe''s bright smile is reflected back at her in the bathroom mirror. She giggles to herself and makes a few silly faces in the mirror before remembering she''s on a time limit. The old boy clothes go back into her backpack, and she gets dressed.


    There''s a skip in Zoe''s step she can''t explain. Usually the school looks downright dreary to her, but in this body she feels on top of the world!


    I''m so awesome!


    Zoe enters the familiar cafeteria with a newfound appreciation. Sure, the food is still kind of crappy, but now she can eat it as a girl! Zoe makes her way over to the end of the lunch line. She pulls out her phone out of habit.


    Derek: Yo where r u


    Ryker: UH


    Derek: ???


    Ryker: Secret :)


    Zoe could tell her friends she has this magic power at her disposal, but wouldn''t messing with them be way more fun? Zoe puts back away her phone before looking at the person in line ahead of her. He''s a tall boy, and he looks nice enough.


    I''ve never tried this, but I feel invincible in this body... so why not?


    Stolen novel; please report.


    Zoe taps the tall boy on the shoulder. He turns around, but his line of sight is way high up. He''s probably as tall as Jamison. He realizes the culprit is short, and looks down at Zoe with a questioning look on his face.


    "Hello!" Zoe greets him.


    "Uh... Hi?" The boy replies.


    Zoe offers her small hand as if to shake hands. Normally Zoe would die of embarrassment in this situation, but as a girl she feels confident she can make friends with someone approachable.


    "I''m Zoe. Nice to meet you!" Zoe says, hand still offered.


    "Ah... I''m Matthew." Matthew replies, taking her hand.


    Matthew''s hand is much larger than Zoe''s, but his grip is plenty gentle as he shakes her hand. The lanky boy gives her a sheepish smile before they separate their hands.


    "I hope I''m not bothering you, I just thought you looked kind and wanted to say hello." Zoe explains.


    "That is uh... wow. Thanks. You seem pretty chill, too." Matthew replies.


    Zoe looks past the tall boy, noticing the lunch line moving forward.


    "Line''s moving!" Zoe chirps.


    Matthew nods and turns to move with the line. The two of them get their food, and Zoe is feeling rather proud of her newfound social skills. Matthew glances at her once or twice. His expression makes it clear he isn''t sure what to think.


    "See you around?" Matthew says as they part ways.


    "Sure!" Zoe nods.


    Zoe gives him a heart stopping smile, but it doesn''t phase Matthew. He just shakes his head at the strangeness of the situation, and goes his own way. Zoe doesn''t even notice as she is already walking toward her usual table.


    Zoe could use some sort of elaborate scheme to prank her friends, but she doesn''t need to. Her face looks quite different today than it did on Sunday. She walks right up to their usual table, and speaks freely.


    "Can I sit here?" Zoe asks casually.


    Jamison turns to look at the source of the vaguely familiar voice. He nods quickly after seeing a chipper girl he doesn''t recognize. Derek smirks a little and nudges Theo, but Theo is too busy gawking at Zoe like she''s a real life dinosaur.


    Hehehe. I knew I looked different enough!


    Theo looks so dumb right now, haha.


    "Is there something on my face?" Zoe teases.


    Theo quickly shakes his head, and stuffs some macaroni and cheese into his face. The three boys get over their surprise and go back to their conversation shortly after. Meanwhile, Zoe enjoys the pleasure of sitting by her friends as a regular girl.


    "So what did he say? That it was a secret?" Derek asks.


    "Yeah, he seemed real happy about it though." Jamison replies.


    Jamison takes a big bite of macaroni and cheese. Derek rubs his chin as if deep in thought. Theo frowns, looking to Jamison with an unreadable expression.


    "Do you think Ryker is upset about what happened Sunday?" Theo asks.


    Jamison is quick to shake his head, and offer a rebuttal to that theory.


    "Nope. If anything I think Ryker forgot about it with all the magic stuff he was doing?" Jamison explains.


    Derek finally comes to a conclusion, and snaps his fingers.


    "I bet he got a girlfriend!" Derek exclaims.


    "Ryker? A girlfriend?" Theo echoes dryly.


    "I think Ryker prefers guys, honestly. He doesn''t like talking about it, though." Jamison explains.


    Zoe tries not to show it on her face, but their conversation is making her want to scream. She settles by putting her phone in her lap, and texting the group chat. The three boys sitting across from her all feel the buzz of their phones simultaneously.


    Ryker: I am NOT gay! I do not like boys, or men, or anything like that! I''m a perfectly straight normal guy. CAPICHE??


    Theo immediately starts chuckling. He sets down his phone before doing a full scan of the cafeteria. He frowns after not finding any sign of Ryker.


    "He''s here, and he can hear us." Theo mutters.


    Jamison taps away at his phone. None of the boys notice the girl across from them is also texting in the very same group chat. Theo keeps glancing around anxiously.


    Jamison: Ryker where are you?


    Jamison: Can''t you just come sit with us like normal?


    Ryker: NO. It''s a secret. :)


    Derek scoffs as he reads the group chat. Theo and Jamison look over at him, and he smirks.


    "Ryker may not want to admit it, but I mean... The way he texts? Very fruity." Derek comments.


    Jamison and Theo both roll their eyes at Derek''s generalization. Zoe can''t help but vibrate angrily as she listens to Derek calling her fruity.


    I''m not gay!


    "I don''t think Ryker is gay, to be honest." Jamison says awkwardly.


    Ryker nearly fist pumps upon hearing Jamison coming to his defense. Not that there is any issue with being gay. It''s just that Ryker is totally not gay in any way at all.


    "What do you mean? He seems attracted to men exclusively." Theo replies curiously.


    "I think Ryker is actually trans." Jamison says quietly.


    Zoe''s stomach feels a little strange as she hears her friends bring up her gender identity. It reminds her she''s an imposter. Underneath this disguise, she is just a boy.


    "That would make a lot of sense." Theo agrees.


    "Should we call Ryker a she, then?" Derek questions.


    Jamison quietly shakes his head. Theo and Derek look to him for an explanation, and he quietly provides one.


    "Ryker is the one to decide that. For now we stick to he/him, unless Ryker says otherwise." Jamison explains.


    Zoe feels a little nauseous. She is definitely not transgender, nor homosexual. She is just a normal boy who isn''t weird or strange in any way. Zoe can''t stomach anymore of this conversation, so she gets up and dumps her tray. None of the boys pay her any mind.


    I''m not trans or gay or anything like that.


    Can''t they just let me be normal?


    The dark and close minded train of thought continues as she walks out of the cafeteria. That same nasty feeling she got when she had to look like a boy is back, and it isn''t leaving. She enters the unisex bathroom.


    I wish I was born a girl.


    Zoe starts to cry as she slumps to the floor. Her soft cries fill the bathroom as the bell signaling the end of lunch rings. She softly parts her lips, and sings.


    "Make me a boy."


    Ryker grimaces at the boy in the mirror. He quickly strips off the girl clothes from his body, and thanks his lucky stars the clothing isn''t ruined. Sounds of students moving about outside urge him to hurry his packing.


    The faint sound of Ryker''s phone buzzing fills him with dread. He doesn''t want to talk to his friends right now. He quickly slings his bag over his shoulder, and exits the unisex bathroom.


    Students are moving like tides throughout the hallways. Ryker weaves in and out of the crowd as he makes his way to 5th period. His phone buzzes again, but he ignores it.


    Finally Ryker enters his 5th period class, and takes a seat where he usually does. The chatter of his peers quietly fades as he finally looks at his phone. He unlocks it, and notices two new messages from someone he doesn''t have in his contacts. Ryker opens the messages, and his heart drops.


    Tracy: So I know you probably didn''t mean to, but you put your name in my phone as ''Zoe'' and I was just wondering if you wanted me to use that name or what that was about?


    Tracy: I''m totally cool with trans people and stuff I am just not sure since you never mentioned your pronouns or anything before!


    The bell rings, but Ryker doesn''t hear it. He numbly stares at his phone''s screen for several minutes. Eventually the teacher taps him on the shoulder, and Ryker looks up.


    "Are you alright?" Mrs. Linen asks.


    Ryker shakes his head.


    "Go ahead to the nurse''s office, Mr. Kim." Mrs. Linen suggests.


    Ryker stands up from his seat, and pulls his backpack along with him. The looks he gets from his peers are fleeting. Ryker leaves the classroom. The hallways are dead quiet. Ryker glances back at his phone, and starts typing.

 Girlhood [13]

    The nurse''s office at Witchburrow High isn''t the most impressive place, but for what it lacks in quality it makes up in quantity. It''s spacious.


    Ryker is quietly lying down on a bed surrounded by curtains. The nurse took one look at him and sent him over without asking any questions. Ryker feels his phone buzz, and opens his messenger app.


    Ryker: That was an accident. Zoe is just the name I used when I was pretending to be a girl for a prank, lol


    Tracy: Sounds like a crazy prank, how''d it go?


    Ryker: Honestly it kind of flopped. He barely reacted when I revealed it was me, not a girl, he was flirting with. :/


    Tracy: Dang that sucks! Probably took a lot of effort, too.


    Ryker considers the prank, and wonders if he should tell Tracy about the magic potion he drank. She already saw him call himself Zoe, so it hardly matters.


    Ryker: It was hard to wear the girl clothes, thought I was gonna get caught at the mall, lol


    Ryker: The rest was easy, because the witch''s magic made me look like a girl


    Tracy: Wait you mean like the witch in the woods? She''s real? You gotta be pulling me leg!


    Ryker: I can prove it if you want, after school?


    Tracy: Sure, but I''m bringing my pepper spray.


    The mention of pepper spray is a painful reminder for Ryker that he''s a man. The sheer muscle mass and height difference between him and Tracy is significant. She has every right to worry about some creep showing her ''magic'' in a secluded space. There that nasty feeling is again.


    I''m dangerous, like a monster.


    Ryker sits up and puts away his phone. The nurse comes over, and checks up on him. After a quick vitals check Ryker is sent back to class with a peppermint.


    ~


    The final bell rings. Tracy puts away her things, and double checks her pepper spray is attached to her bag. She pulls out her phone, and texts the guy she befriended today.


    Ryker: I''ll wait out behind the gym


    Tracy: gotcha


    Tracy stands, and leaves the classroom. She has to weave between the rivers of students making their way to the front of the building. Not many are headed in this direction, and the halls get quieter and quieter.


    She reaches the doors leading outside, and pushes through. A couple turns and she''ll be face to face with this odd guy. Tracy clutches the straps of her bag to steel herself, heading toward the meeting place.


    I hope this isn''t a mistake.


    It takes a minute to find him. Ryker is sitting by a dumpster with his head in his hands. The sight is pitiful, but Tracy doesn''t let her guard down as she approaches him. She crouches, and cups her hands around her mouth.


    "Hellooo?" Tracy greets.


    Ryker stiffens up, and slowly looks up at her. The look he''s giving Tracy reminds her of a kicked puppy, but she doesn''t fall for it.


    "So are you gonna show me your ''magic'' now, or is it all some sick joke?" Tracy asks judgmentally.


    The expression on Ryker''s face shifts to one of cold fury. He angrily clenches both his fists, and Tracy clutches her pepper spray with one hand. He stands up, and parts his lips. The sound that comes out stuns Tracy.


    "Make me a girl."


    There''s a weird tingling in the air, and the boy standing before her starts to float. He hovers just above the ground while convulsing. She takes a nervous step back. Ryker''s body twists like it''s ripping apart, and for a second Tracy worries she''s about to see someone get torn apart by magic.


    Instead, Tracy watches in awe as Ryker changes into a petite dark haired girl with strikingly beautiful features. The girl''s dark hair is cascading down to nearly touch the floor. She stands at a meager height of five feet tall. The girl open''s her doe eyes, and looks up at Tracy with teary eyes.


    Oh my god.


    She''s fucking adorable!


    The small girl''s expression falls away to a pout, and then the tears start flowing. Tracy''s eyes widen as the girl starts to quiver and sob. Tracy crouches down and wraps her arms around the dark haired girl gently.


    "It''s okay. Shh, you''re okay. I''m here." Tracy tries to comfort the girl.


    Warm tears dampen Tracy''s top. She hugs the girl tighter. Tracy gently leans her head against the girls shoulder, and the girl does the same to Tracy. They stay like this for several harrowing minutes.


    Finally, the girl is calm. Tracy carefully leans back from the girl.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    "You good?" Tracy asks.


    The girl nods her head.


    "So... is your name Zoe?" Tracy continues.


    Zoe nods again, but doesn''t say anything. Tracy takes a deep breath while trying to process the existence of magic. She''d heard rumors of the witch before, but never anything concrete. This is more than concrete. This is undeniable evidence.


    "You''re really cute, you know that?" Tracy says with a smile.


    Zoe shakes her head immediately.


    "You don''t agree? Why not?" Tracy presses.


    "Because I''m not a real girl, I''m j-just pretend." Zoe gets choked up as she speaks.


    Tracy can''t help but notice how sweet and soft Zoe''s voice is. She gently rubs the girl''s back while sitting against the wall beside her.


    "You are a real girl if you want to be one, Zoe." Tracy explains patiently.


    Zoe doesn''t calm down at all. She starts to sob now, and her voice comes out in broken gasps as she offers her retort.


    "I-I''m a m-monster." Zoe chokes out.


    Tracy''s eyes widen a little at Zoe''s words. She immediately pulls the smaller girl into a tender embrace, and holds her until the tears stop.


    "Listen to me very carefully, Zoe." Tracy says gently.


    Zoe looks up at Tracy with red puffy eyes, and a pout on her delicate face.


    "You are not a monster. Just because you were born a boy doesn''t mean you are one, or that you have to stay one forever. If you want to be a girl then you are one, inside and out." Tracy lectures quietly.


    "B-But I was-" Zoe starts.


    Tracy immediately hushes her by putting her finger to her lips.


    "But what? You were born with boy parts? There''s surgery to fix that, and women can be born without all the ''normal'' parts" Tracy argues.


    Zoe has a perplexed look on her face. She purses her lips before turning to look at Tracy with a determined expression.


    "My real v-" Zoe protests.


    "Your voice is too deep? How do you think women with naturally deep voices feel? There''s a lot of variance in pitch, and if you really want you can train your voice to sound different." Tracy cuts Zoe off.


    The irritated look on Zoe''s face turns ugly as she loses her cool.


    "I''m too tall! Too hairy! I don''t even have boobs, you know!" Zoe snaps.


    Tracy puts her hand on Zoe''s head, and looks into her eyes sternly. Zoe quiets down upon seeing the seriousness of Tracy''s expression.


    "Tall women exist, and they aren''t any less feminine for it. Body hair is perfectly normal for a woman, and you can just shave, wax, or laser it off if you want." Tracy explains coldly.


    Zoe squints at Tracy as if waiting for Tracy to finish rebuffing her reasons for not being a ''real'' girl.


    "You can literally just take hormones to grow boobs, Zoe. That ones easy." Tracy sighs.


    Zoe blinks dumbly in response. She frowns softly before glancing at Tracy as if not believing her. She pulls out her phone from her oversized jeans, and searches something. Her astonishment is plain on her face.


    "Y-You can do that?!" Zoe gawks.


    Tracy giggles at her friend''s reaction, and nods.


    "You sure can. Still feel like you aren''t a real girl?" Tracy replies.


    Zoe goes to open her mouth, but Tracy shushes her with her finger. She gently holds Zoe''s face by the cheeks, and presses their foreheads together. The proximity is a little overwhelming. Zoe can basically only see Tracy''s bright green eyes.


    "You are a real girl if you want to be, and nobody can change that." Tracy whispers.


    Tracy pulls away slowly with smirk. Zoe huffs softly.


    "Fine. I''m a... a real girl." Zoe whispers.


    "Sorry, I didn''t catch that?" Tracy says.


    "I said I''m a real girl." Zoe replies.


    "Hm? You''re mumbling." Tracy fibs.


    "I SAID I''M A GIRL!" Zoe shouts.


    The pale girl''s face turns beet red after realizing she shouted that so loudly. She gives Tracy the stink eye, but fails to stop herself from smiling. Zoe reaches out and gives Tracy the biggest hug she can manage.


    "Thank you." Zoe mumbles.


    Tracy hugs her back, and quietly replies.


    "It''s what friends are for."


    ~


    The bustling streets of downtown Witchburrow are pretty much the place to be. Zoe can hardly contain herself as she walks alongside Tracy. Tracy smiles down at the much shorter girl while Zoe drinks in the sights and sounds.


    "Having fun?" Tracy asks.


    "Yes, So much fun! I love being a girl!" Zoe replies enthusiastically.


    Tracy can''t help grinning at that adorable reply.


    Zoe spots a salon, and fumbles for her wallet. She finds it in her bag, and pulls it out to check how much cash she has. Tracy watches her with an eyebrow raised.


    "Did you want a haircut?" Tracy asks.


    "Yup. I want bangs!" Zoe replies.


    "I could pay for it if you don''t mind?" Tracy offers.


    An odd sense of deja vu overcomes Zoe as she looks at Tracy.


    "Is this pretty privilege?" Zoe asks bluntly.


    Tracy bursts out laughing at Zoe''s question. She takes a few moments to collect herself while Zoe watches in confusion.


    "Y-Yes, I guess it is?" Tracy replies.


    "Cool. In that case I''ll be taking you up on that offer!" Zoe says with a smirk.


    She''s lucky she''s cute.


    Tracy takes the smaller girl''s hand and guides her to the salon. Zoe follows closely with a big smile on her face. If Zoe wasn''t so well endowed it''d feel like Tracy was on an outing with the younger sister she never had. They enter the salon.


    The salon''s atmosphere is impeccable. Quiet music plays over the speakers while curtains divide the customers from one another. Zoe steps up to the front desk with a confidence she never had as a boy.


    "Hello! I was wondering if I could get my hair cut? I want bangs." Zoe explains.


    The lady at the desk smiles a little at Zoe''s straightforward approach, and checks a sheet of paper on her desk. She nods after a second of reading.


    "Yes, we do have an opening right now. Will you be paying with cash or card?" She replies.


    Tracy holds up her debit card with a polite smile.


    "We''ll do card, thank you." Tracy replies.


    Zoe tunes out the conversation as she stares up at the pictures adorning the salon walls. They depict women with a variety of hair styles. These example cuts provide both decoration and inspiration for customers. Tracy gently pulls Zoe along.


    "Let''s go, squirt." Tracy urges.


    "Squirt? I''m not a kid!" Zoe protests.


    "Yeah everyone can tell, no need to remind me." Tracy replies with an eyeroll.


    Zoe furrows her brow in confusion. She only realizes what Tracy meant when she''s halfway through getting her bangs cut. She blushes bright red while glancing at herself in the mirror. The haircut doesn''t take long.


    Afterwards, Zoe keeps turning her head while looking into the mirror. Tracy smiles down at Zoe as she inspects herself.


    "Do you like it?" Tracy asks.


    "Of course, It''s so pretty!" Zoe gushes.


    After a few more minutes of admiring herself in the mirror Tracy manages to drag Zoe to the front of the salon. The nice lady at the front desk waves goodbye to the pair of girls.


    "Have a nice night, ladies!" She bids goodbye.


    Zoe''s cheeks pink up a little. She''s grinning ear to ear as they step outside. Tracy notices, and can''t help feeling Zoe is far too precious for this world.


    She looks so happy. Aww.


    The pair of girls pass by a popular arcade on their walk through downtown. Tracy normally passes these places without a second thought, so she''s surprised to see Zoe slow down outside the arcade. Zoe peers into the arcade with a dreamy look.


    Oh? What''s got her making goo goo eyes?


    Tracy follows Zoe''s gaze to see three boys. One boy is wearing glasses, the shortest. Another boy is going ham on the speed bag with a cocky grin on his face. The third boy is leaning against the wall with a slight smile on his face. Tracy can''t help but wonder why Zoe is looking at those boys in particular.


    Who are they?

 Coming Out [14]

    An upbeat ringtone manages to overcome the noisy downtown ambience. Tracy pulls her phone out, and answers. Zoe watches her curiously as she leans against the arcade''s wall.


    "Hey Mom, what''s up?" Tracy starts.


    Tracy steps out of the way of passerby while listening to her mother speak. Her face goes through a myriad of emotions.


    "Okay, got it. I''ll be there." Tracy confirms.


    Zoe wonders what this is about, but it isn''t really her business.


    "Love you too, Mom. Bye bye." Tracy finishes.


    Tracy pockets her phone before leaning down slightly to Zoe''s eye level. The look on Tracy''s face is a serious one.


    "I gotta run, but I want you to promise me something, Zoe." Tracy says sternly.


    "Promise you what?" Zoe replies.


    "Promise me that you''ll never forget you''re a real girl. Ever." Tracy whispers.


    Zoe nods emphatically.


    "I promise."


    ~


    Zoe is standing on her front porch. She adjusts her outfit carefully, and double checks her hair using her phone''s camera. Deep breaths. She gives the door three good knocks, and waits.


    There''s shuffling and the muffled sound of her mother''s voice. Zoe stiffens up as the door''s handle turns. It swings open to reveal Zoe''s mother wearing sweatpants and one of her husband''s shirts.


    "Oh... Oh?" Zoe''s mother says.


    "H-Hi Mom, I uh... I switched back." Zoe explains stiffly.


    Most of the ways Zoe expected her mom to react were some flavor of negative. Select few scenarios in Zoe''s head end happily. Despite going through numerous scenarios in her head, Zoe never thought up a scenario where her mother did this. Zoe''s mother smiles.


    "Do you feel better now?" Zoe''s mother asks gently.


    Zoe can''t help the tears that threaten to spill from her doe eyes. She nods with more enthusiasm than she''s ever nodded before, and her mother scoops her into a loving embrace right there on the front porch. The tears start gushing down Zoe''s cheeks.


    I just keep crying...


    But girls are allowed to cry.


    I''m allowed to cry now.


    Eventually Zoe stops crying. Her mother gently pulls away so that she can get a good look at her daughter. Zoe smiles awkwardly at her mother. Her mother smiles right back, and wipes away Zoe''s tears with her sleeve.


    "Do you... have a name picked out, honey?" Zoe''s mother asks gently.


    "Yes! My name is Zoe, now." Zoe replies resolutely.


    "That''s a beautiful name, Zoe." Zoe''s mother compliments her.


    Zoe can''t help blushing at her mother''s sweet words. Hearing the woman who birthed and raised you approve of your chosen name is so gratifying it''s difficult to put into words. The autumn wind reminds Zoe and her mother that they''re outside with a harsh gale.


    "Care to join me for some hot chocolate, daughter of mine?" Zoe''s mother offers with a smirk.


    Despite not wearing a skirt or any alternative, Zoe curtsies to her mother as if accepting an invitation to a ball. She even goes the extra mile by putting on a very bad posh accent.


    "It would be my pleasure, mother dearest." Zoe replies jokingly.


    They giggle at their silly exchange, and move into the warm interior of the house. Zoe takes a seat at the dining table. She smiles when she notices her feet don''t quite reach the floor.


    Wait... Mom''s feet don''t touch the floor either?


    "Mom... why are our dining chairs so tall?" Zoe asks.


    Zoe''s mother heats up a mug of water in the microwave while pulling out some hot cocoa packets. She turns to see Zoe kicking her feet in a rather adorable fashion.


    "Hah... You father is built like a mountain, honey. Those chairs were a compromise between our preferences." Zoe''s mother explains.


    Oh, that makes sense.


    The quiet tap of Zoe''s mother placing a mug of hot chocolate on the table catches Zoe''s attention. She smiles, scooting her chair in.


    "Careful honey, it''s hot." Zoe''s mother warns.


    Zoe can''t help herself. She goes in for a very small sip, and subsequently burns herself! Tears form at the corners of her eyes, but she doesn''t cry.


    "Ouch..." Zoe whines.


    "Told you so." Zoe''s mother chides her.


    Zoe''s mother helps her out by popping a few ice cubes into her hot chocolate. Once her drink is cooled off Zoe gulps it down like a thirsty camel. It''s a cozy moment, shared between mother and daughter.


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    Then the front door unlocks. They watch the man of the house enter. He takes his shoes off at the door, and turns to face his family.


    "Hey you two, ah..." Zoe''s father pauses in confusion.


    Zoe is unsure what to do. She decides that it''s best to take charge, so she gets up from her chair. Zoe approaches her father with a determined look on her face, but she''s nervous on the inside.


    "Hi D-Dad." Zoe greets him.


    Zoe''s father gives her a raised brow and the quizzical Dad eye. She shrinks back under his gaze.


    "Why do you look like that?" He asks pointedly.


    Zoe''s mother gets up from the table with a stern expression. She approaches and carefully puts a hand on her husbands shoulder. He immediately looks to her as if being addressed by his superior.


    "She looks like a girl because she is one, honey." Zoe''s mother informs him.


    Regaining her confidence, Zoe nods her head enthusiastically. Zoe''s hands are trembling. It is one thing to be a girl due to a curse. It is another to ''choose'' to be a girl on your own. Zoe braces herself for the rejection she expects.


    "I did always want a daughter, actually." Zoe''s father admits sheepishly.


    He what?


    "Oh stop it. You''re confusing her." Zoe''s mother scolds him.


    "Hey, I''m just being honest. If I had my way Ry- er, sorry, what name do you prefer?" Zoe''s father asks politely.


    "Uh, it''s Zoe... What were you saying?" Zoe replies.


    Zoe''s father scratches his chin before smiling at Zoe. The genuine pride and joy in that smile is enough to make Zoe feel warm and fuzzy inside.


    "I wanted to encourage you to well... get in touch with your feminine side, but your mother convinced me otherwise." Zoe''s father admits.


    "That is not how it went. You wanted to take her to the daddy daughter dance in middle school, and got depressed because she couldn''t do that." Zoe''s mother refutes.


    Dad, seriously?


    Zoe blinks at her embarrassed looking father. She was so worried over whether this big lug would accept her for who she is, yet he already wanted to spend time with her as a daughter. It was so ridiculous. So ridiculously sweet.


    "You''re such a dork, Dad." Zoe says softly.


    "I guess that makes three of us." He replies jokingly.


    That joke earns him a little playful slap on the shoulder from his wife. Zoe shuffles up to her father, and embraces him. Zoe''s mother joins in to form a group hug.


    "T-Thank you." Zoe mumbles


    Zoe''s mother scoffs at her daughter''s words.


    "You shouldn''t need to thank your own parents for supporting you, honey." Zoe''s mother remarks.


    "I guess you''re right, Mom." Zoe replies with a giggle.


    Zoe''s father exchanges a look with his wife. The two of them share an unspoken conversation. Zoe looks between them in confusion.


    What''re they doing?


    Having a staring contest?


    "Zoe, come sit down." Zoe''s mother urges her.


    Zoe follows her mother to the living room while Zoe''s father grabs himself a pepsi. Zoe and her mother take a seat on the couch.


    "Your father and I have talked about it before, and we think there need to be some new ground rules." Zoe''s mother starts.


    Zoe furrows her brow skeptically.


    "What? Um... why?" Zoe questions.


    "You''re a girl now, Zoe. There are some things that girls need to be aware of that boys do not." Zoe''s mother explains.


    Zoe nods slowly at her mother''s words. Zoe''s father joins them on the couch with his soda in hand. Zoe''s mother resumes her lecture.


    "For starters, I don''t want you wearing anything too revealing. Like you were on Sunday." Zoe''s mother says sternly.


    "Mom I didn''t mean to, I just grew!" Zoe argues.


    Zoe''s mother raises her palm as if to gently stop her daughter''s protests. Zoe pouts.


    "If me or your father see you wearing something inappropriate, there will be some consequences." Zoe''s mother warns.


    Zoe scrunches up her face a little, but nods in agreement. Zoe''s father brings up the second rule.


    "Now, about those boys-" Zoe''s father starts.


    "My friends, you mean?" Zoe corrects him.


    "Yes, your friends. They may have been your buddies since you were a kid, but they are still boys, Zoe." He continues.


    Zoe crosses her arms over her ample chest. She frowns judgmentally at her father. Zoe implicitly trusts Jamison, Derek, and Theo like she would family. They''ve known each other since they were in kindergarten.


    "I don''t want you letting your guard down, Zoe." He finishes.


    Zoe''s mother shakes her head with a smile, cutting in to explain what he''s getting at.


    "You have a curfew, honey. We want you home by nine, no later." Zoe''s mother states.


    "Nine?! That''s like, no time after school!" Zoe shouts.


    Zoe''s mother gives her a look that quiets her down.


    "Nine. No later, or we''ll come looking for you." Zoe''s mother finishes.


    Zoe lets out an irritated groan. She nods begrudgingly at her parents.


    "You also need to be sure your father and I know where you''re at. You''ll need to call us when you go places after school, and so on." Zoe''s mother explains.


    "Mom this is too much!" Zoe whines.


    "Zoe this is for your own good. We just want to keep our daughter safe." Zoe''s mother says softly.


    There''s a moment where Zoe glares up at her parents, but she can''t bear to stay mad at them. They''re supporting her fully, yet she''s getting irritated over a few new household rules. Zoe gives them both an apologetic hug.


    "I love you guys." Zoe mumbles.


    "We love you too, kiddo." Zoe''s father chuckles.


    ~


    Zoe is pacing around her room with a worried expression adorning her features. She flops onto her bed with a dramatic sigh.


    What am I gonna tell the guys?


    Zoe pulls out her phone and checks the group chat. No new messages. She starts typing.


    Ryker: Hey guys my parents gave me a curfew


    Seeing that old name is a bit of a slap to the face, but she wants to change it after coming out to them in person. These things are best done face to face. Her phone buzzes.


    Derek: lmao fr? hahaha


    Ryker: T_T yes for real, butthead


    Theo: Did they give a particular reason for it?


    Zoe softly bites her lip as she contemplates what to tell them. She doesn''t want to lie to them anymore than she already has. She types a response.


    Ryker: It has to do with something I want to tell you guys in person, tomorrow


    Jamison: Tomorrow? When''s your curfew..?


    Ryker: Uhhh... 9


    Zoe winces as her phone blows up with multiple messages all at once. She groans in embarrassment as she reads them.


    Derek: LMAOOO


    Derek: Baby ryry cant stay out after dark


    Theo: That does seem a bit ridiculous


    Jamison: That is a little earlier than I expected...


    Zoe grabs her pillow and pushes her face into it. She lets out a shrill scream. Her phone buzzes again, and she reluctantly checks the message. It''s from Tracy.


    Tracy: Hey!


    Zoe: Hi! :)


    Tracy: So I was wondering if you were free tomorrow evening..?


    Zoe: Uh idk I probably will hang out with my friends


    Zoe: My other friends I mean!!!


    Zoe: Oh and I do have a curfew now...


    Tracy: A curfew?


    Zoe: I came out to my parents and they made new rules!! >:(


    Tracy: Pfft omg. I mean I have a curfew, but I also carry pepper spray so


    Zoe: Maybe I should get some


    Tracy: You def should, ur tiny


    There''s a knock on Zoe''s door. She expects whoever it is to enter, but they don''t. She sits up.


    "Come in?" Zoe calls out.


    Zoe''s mother steps in with a slightly awkward smile. She glances around the strangely tidy bedroom before looking back at her daughter.


    "Just came to say goodnight, honey." She explains.


    "Oh, goodnight! Love you mom." Zoe replies.


    "Love you too, honey." Zoe''s mother finishes.


    Zoe sets her phone aside as she watches her mother carefully shut her bedroom door. The moonlight is pouring in through her bedroom window. Zoe looks up at the partially full moon and smiles to herself.


    Being a girl is the best.


    Zoe drifts off to sleep without a second thought.

 Boys Being Boys [15]

    Zoe''s nose twitches softly. The sweet aroma of pancakes is wafting up from the kitchen. Zoe''s eyes slowly open, and her tummy lets out a hungry gurgle. Zoe''s cheeks flush slightly as she sits up in bed.


    I smell pancakes!


    The blanket slips messily to the floor as Zoe hops out of bed. She takes the time to pick it up and make her bed. Zoe pushes open her closet with a determined look on her small face. There''s a distinct lack of options for girl outfits. She sighs.


    I guess I have to be a boy at school.


    Can''t exactly tell the school magic turned me into a girl, can I?


    Zoe pouts angrily at the clean boy clothes in her closet. With a roll of her eyes she grabs an outfit fit for a boy, and some of her undergarments. Zoe pulls on her panties without fanfare, and slips on a rather baggy pair of her boy jeans. She stuffs a bra into her bag, and tosses on a shirt fit for her boy body.


    The clothes look a bit silly on her small frame. Zoe sticks her tongue out in the mirror, and giggles. She takes the time to pack her new sneakers, and slips into her old ones reluctantly.


    I feel a bit silly, but this is necessary.


    I''ve waited years to be a girl, so what''s a little while longer?


    Zoe rationalizes the sacrifice she''s making as she hurries downstairs. The smell of pancakes makes her mouth water. Zoe eagerly slips into a seat at the table. Zoe''s mother smirks at her daughter, and dishes up a plateful of pancakes topped with some whipped cream.


    "That''s quite the fashion statement." Zoe''s mom comments.


    Zoe starts cutting apart her pancakes with a bitter smile.


    "Well I have to swap between boy and girl mode so the teachers recognize me!" Zoe explains.


    "Hm. You can do that? I was just going to let you stay home till we got things sorted with the school." Zoe''s mother replies.


    While staying home for a while is a tempting offer, Zoe doesn''t want to miss her classwork. Spending some time with her friends is worth it, too. Zoe''s mother grabs her car keys with a flourish. She quickly gives Zoe a kiss on the forehead as usual, and moves to the door.


    "Oh! I almost forgot." Zoe''s mother remarks.


    Zoe watches her mother move to the kitchen. She grabs something from a drawer and walks back over. Zoe is stuffing her face with pancake when her mother places a little can of pepper spray on the table.


    "Mf hmf fh?" Zoe says with her mouth full.


    "Don''t talk with your mouth full, honey." Zoe''s mother scolds.


    Zoe swallows her mouthful of delicious pancake.


    "What''s that for?" Zoe repeats.


    "You''re a girl, honey. You''ll need a way to defend yourself in an emergency." Her mother explains.


    Zoe''s nose wrinkles at the thought of having to spray someone. She understands why it''s necessary, but she hates confrontation. Zoe''s mother moves to the door, her heels clicking as she walks.


    "Anyways, I''ll see you later. Love you, honey." Zoe''s mother says.


    "Lffh hf mhh!" Zoe replies, once again with her mouth stuffed.


    The door shuts with a click, and Zoe swallows her pancakes happily. Pancakes are her favorite kind of breakfast food. Potatoes come as a close second.


    Zoe finishes up her breakfast and carries her plate to the sink. She hums to herself as she washes off her dirty dishes. Something about doing these kind of chores relaxes Zoe. It''s strange that she never felt this way when she was a boy.


    With the dishes handled Zoe makes her way to the door. She hefts her backpack over her shoulder and goes to open the door. The way her little hand clasps the handle reminds her of what she''d rather not do.


    Ugh, I need to swap.


    This is the worst!


    Zoe takes a step back from the door, and parts her lips to sing. The magical hum of her words reverberates throughout the house as she speaks.


    "Make me a boy."


    The pop and tugging of the magic leaves Zoe feeling a little dizzy. She sighs in defeat as she looks at her masculine hands. She can''t help but feel put off by her original body. Zoe shakes her head.


    Maybe I can change my boy body, too?


    ~


    Derek''s muscles ache as he pushes himself up off the grass for the thirtieth time. His posture is perfect, and he''s hurting for it. Jamison stands to the side of him with his phone in his hand. Theo is watching them with a bored look on his punchable face.


    "That''s time." Jamison announces.


    "Ugh. Damn." Derek grumbles.


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    Derek gets up off the ground. He dusts himself off with an unsatisfied frown. Theo glances at his phone while Jamison notes down Derek''s attempt on his phone''s notes.


    Their gym class is outside for today. Gym is usually pretty stuffy, so the fresh air is a great change of pace for the teens. Strangely enough the cutest one in the group isn''t here. Derek pouts a little to himself as he looks around.


    "Did Ryker say what he was up to..?" Derek asks.


    Theo glances at his phone before speaking up.


    "He just texted us. He wants to meet us by the dumpsters?" Theo replies.


    Derek pulls out his phone and opens his messaging app. He reads the group chat eagerly.


    Cutie: Hey guys I have something I need to show/tell u


    Cutie: Can you meet me by the dumpsters? Coach won''t even notice


    Theo: Are you sure he won''t notice


    Jamison: He doesn''t pay any attention when we go out, it''s fine Theo


    Jamison glances over at Coach Bertram. The coach isn''t looking their way. Jamison gestures for Theo and Derek to follow him. The three of them leave their bags behind, and start walking toward the dumpsters.


    I gotta figure out how to apologize.


    Would be a lot easier if Ryker wasn''t back to his old self...


    The trio turns the corner to see Ryker leaning up against the brick wall with a smile on his face. He''s wearing one of his baggy outfits again. Derek frowns upon seeing Ryker is dressed in the usual stuff he wears to school.


    "So what''re you gonna tell us?" Jamison asks.


    "Well... I guess I should just say it." Ryker laughs.


    Derek is about to ask what Ryker means by that when he parts his lips. The strange silence that descends over the group is profoundly supernatural. Half a moment later Ryker''s words flow out like they''re being spoken by a witch.


    "I''m a girl."


    Ryker''s words rattle the group''s skulls a little, and they stumble slightly. Ryker''s body hovers a little above the ground as his limbs start to bend as if breaking off. The process is a little terrifying, but Ryker doesn''t get ripped apart like they expect. Ryker transforms into a very familiar girl. She smiles brightly at them.


    "Holy shit." Derek mumbles.


    The same girl who sat at their table the yesterday is standing before them. Ryker''s little ''secret'' was clearly related to this magic nonsense. Derek winces upon realizing Ryker heard their entire discussion they had about him.


    "You cheeky bitch..." Theo says just barely loud enough to hear.


    Ryker gawks at Theo''s response. His face turns a little red as he looks at his other friends as if saying ''are you hearing this?'' with his eyes.


    "W-What did you just call me?" Ryker asks.


    "Uh. Shoot. I said that out loud?" Theo replies awkwardly.


    Everyone nods at Theo. He blushes beet red as he turns to look back at Ryker.


    "S-Sorry. I was just really curious how you heard us yesterday, and felt a little betrayed that you cheated with magic." Theo explains.


    Contrary to expectation, Ryker starts to laugh. It starts off as soft laughter, but quickly devolves into a fit of amused giggles. Derek has to admit Ryker''s voice is even cuter today than it was back on Sunday.


    He''s way too cute!


    Ryker calms himself down, and schools his expression. The serious look on Ryker''s pretty face gives the three boys pause. They wait for him to speak.


    "I''d like it if you all called me Zoe from now on, and if you used... well, she and her when referring to me." Zoe explains sternly.


    Zoe''s serious expression is adorable as far as Derek is concerned, but he takes her very seriously. Coming out to your friends can''t be easy for her. Derek makes a fist and smacks it onto his chest as if saluting a commanding officer.


    "Roger that, ma''am." Derek says with mock professionalism.


    The bright smile he gets in return nearly melts Derek''s heart on the spot.


    "You have my full support, Zoe." Jamison adds with a smile.


    "Mine too, obviously." Theo adds quickly.


    The three boys watch the girl of the group start to bounce. She hops up and down like a kid on Christmas. Her smile is infectious, and they can''t stop themselves from smirking.


    "Thank goodness! You guys are awesome!" Zoe exclaims.


    Jamison blushes a little and gently grabs Zoe by the shoulders. This puts her excited jumping to a stop. Derek clicks his tongue to show his disapproval as Jamison steps away from Zoe.


    No wait, that''s what got me in trouble last time...


    Pure thoughts! Wholesome thoughts.


    "Guess this explains your new curfew." Theo comments.


    "Yup. I even got pepper spray, haha." Zoe replies awkwardly.


    Derek blinks in mild surprise. That makes sense, but the thought of Zoe needing to use that to defend herself is a bit nauseating. Zoe looks like she wants to say something, and the boys all notice. Jamison sighs.


    "Just say it, Zoe. We''re not gonna be upset with you." Jamison reminds her.


    "Okay, well. My dad said I shouldn''t let my guard down around you guys, but I don''t get why?" Zoe explains.


    Theo looks at Derek as if accusing him. Derek puts his palms up as if to say he didn''t do anything, and looks at Jamison. Jamison is blushing and shakes his head back at Derek. The ringing of the school bell saves the three boys from an awkward conversation.


    Jamison and Theo starts speedwalking their way back toward where they left their bags, but Derek hangs back. He locks eyes with a curious looking Zoe. It''s now or never.


    "I-I''m sorry. For saying those things about you. I didn''t think about it, a-and objectified you." Derek stammers an apology.


    Zoe''s eyebrows go up as she listens to Derek''s apology. Her lips curl up in a sweet smile as she approaches Derek. He stiffens up as she pulls him into a hug. Derek isn''t sure what to do, so he just awkwardly stands there.


    "Hug me back!" Zoe barks.


    Derek blinks in surprise before putting his muscular arms around Zoe. Their hug only lasts a minute or so, but it feels like an hour for Derek. His heart is beating a mile a minute as they separate. Zoe glances at her phone, and panics.


    "Shoot! We gotta hurry!" She exclaims.


    Zoe runs off to her next class with Derek trailing behind. Derek can''t stop smiling.


    ~


    School food is really hit or miss. Sometimes the pizza can be pretty good, but other days its like a cold piece of cardboard with some nonsense slapped on top. Zoe sighs as she puts down her half eaten pizza slice.


    "What''s wrong?" Jamison asks.


    "Just sick of nasty school lunches." Zoe complains.


    The three boys all nod in agreement. Eating this crap everyday gets really old really fast. Theo glances at Zoe, and then his lunch.


    "Hey Zoe..." Theo says.


    Zoe glances at him with a bored expression. Her pizza has sapped the euphoria from her.


    "How do you feel about cooking?" Theo continues carefully.


    Jamison gives Theo this wide eyed look of realization. He shakes his head slowly at Theo as if to say no. Derek covers his mouth to hide his smile. Zoe tilts her head in thought. She doesn''t seem to realize what Theo is trying to do.


    "I mean I haven''t really tried it? My mom is usually the one who cooks at home." Zoe replies.


    "Why not start making your own lunches?" Theo suggests.


    Jamison holds his head in his hands as Zoe starts to perk up at the idea. Derek is looking at Theo with newfound respect. Zoe taps away at her phone, and smiles.


    "That''s honestly an awesome idea! I could cook stuff for you guys too. Any suggestions?" Zoe rambles enthusiastically.


    Theo smiles in satisfaction. He slides over a printed bullet point list of food items Zoe could make, and the other two boys facepalm. Jamison offers his own favorite food, and Derek does the same. Zoe notes all the ideas down on her phone. Jamison can''t help but look at Theo in a new light.


    I thought Derek was the bad one, but maybe Theo is worse..?

 Friendly Fire [16]

    The sound of cars driving by mixes with the constant chatter of people talking. Bright neon signs and flashing lights help downtown vaguely resemble a Vegas strip. Jamison glances down at the girl walking in front of him.


    Zoe is marching along the sidewalk like she owns the place. Her dark locks sway behind her as she walks. Jamison can hear her humming to herself. Derek and Theo are walking on either side of Jamison, but Derek''s eyes aren''t leaving Zoe. Zoe insisted on leading them someplace without telling them.


    "Are we headed to the arcade?" Theo asks.


    "Shush! It''s supposed to be my idea!" Zoe hisses.


    Zoe keeps walking with her friends in tow, and of course they wind up standing outside the arcade. Theo lets Zoe have her way by not commenting on it being an unoriginal idea. Jamison can tell he totally wants to, though. They step inside.


    Crunchy sound effects and the chattering of patrons fills the arcade. Scents of sweat and snacks linger like a haze. Zoe walks up to the first open cabinet, but quickly realizes she''s too short to effectively play.


    "You gotta be kidding me..." Zoe grumbles.


    "Here." Derek offers.


    Jamison gives Derek a look of mild jealousy as he places a stool down for Zoe to sit on. She quickly scrambles onto it and pushes a quarter into the machine. Theo and Derek take both sides to watch her play. Jamison doesn''t really have much of a vantage point, so he wanders off to grab some snacks for the crew.


    Wish he''d stop acting like her boyfriend.


    ~


    Zoe''s eyes follow the little motorbike as it zips across the screen. She holds down the turbo button. The odd buzzing noise the game produces is like music to her ears. She passes one of her opponents. She passes another. Then her bike overheats!


    "No!" Zoe exclaims.


    The warbling sound effect of her bike rolling over drowns out her complaints. Zoe watches helplessly as several little pixelated bikes drive past her as she recovers. The rest of the race is without issue, and she finishes last.


    "Wow that uh... sucked." Theo comments.


    Derek kicks Theo''s foot where Zoe can''t see. Zoe looks downright crestfallen. Derek softly puts his hand on Zoe''s back, rubbing gently.


    "Hey, it was the last race! That one''s harder than the rest." Derek comforts.


    Zoe''s attention splits between the feeling of Derek''s hand on her back and his apologetic smile. She doesn''t know how she never saw it before.


    Why is this stupid jock so cute?


    The allure of Derek''s touch almost pulls Zoe in, but she resists. Zoe pushes Derek''s arm off before trotting toward a different game cabinet.


    "Damn. Cold shoulder." Theo jabs.


    "Shut up, Theodore." Derek scoffs.


    Derek and Theo follow Zoe. She was going for Donkey Kong, but the bright glow of a claw machine catches her interest. She steps over to the claw machine with an awestruck look on her face. Her eyes are locked onto a stuffed bunny. The squishy looking thing is buried under several less than ideal prizes.


    Theo wiggles his eyebrows at Derek. Derek rolls his eyes in response.


    "Do you want that rabbit?" Derek asks.


    Zoe glances at Derek, and nods. Derek goes to put a quarter in, but Zoe beats him to the punch. Her small hands grab the joystick and buttons without hesitation. She pushes the claw forward, and then releases the switch when it''s hovering over the bunny. The claw lowers down. It clenches shut over the bunny. The bunny falls.


    "What?! I totally had it!" Zoe complains.


    Theo chuckles at Zoe''s misfortune, and when she looks angrily at him he points to the machine.


    "It''s a claw machine, Zoe. Of course it''s rigged." Theo states flatly.


    Derek watches Theo like a tiger watches a gazelle. He smirks, and gently taps Zoe on the shoulder to get her attention. Zoe turns and looks up at the athlete with a pout.


    "What?" Zoe asks.


    "Well, I was wondering if you would let me give it a try? I''m pretty damn good at these things." Derek offers.


    Pretty privilege!


    Zoe smiles to herself as she steps aside to let Derek take over.


    "Please do!" Zoe agrees.


    Derek''s larger hands take up the joystick and buttons. He shoves a quarter in and watches the claw move. Theo is watching doubtfully. Zoe cheers Derek on.


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    "You can do it!" Zoe encourages.


    Derek tunes her out to focus. His eyes follow the claw as it sways and jostles around. The angle needs to be just right for this trick, and at just the right time.


    That''s it!


    Derek slaps the button right as the claw starts to sway sideways above the bunny.


    "What? That''s too early!" Zoe gawks.


    "No, wait." Theo mumbles.


    The claw lowers down and pushes against a stuffed bear sitting beside the rabbit. The way it slides puts the claw beneath the rabbit, and it scoops it up. Derek holds his breath as the claw pulls the white toy rabbit out of the pile. It''s a success!


    "You did it! Holy moly!" Zoe exclaims.


    ~


    The scent of popcorn and pizza is a little overwhelming here. Jamison looks over the menu while trying to get his mind off Zoe. There''s a wide variety of snacks for sale here... but most of it seems subpar.


    "I''ll take four sodas, two small popcorns, and two cotton candies." Jamison explains to the cashier.


    "What kind of soda..?" The cashier questions.


    "Let''s do sprite for all four." Jamison clarifies.


    It only takes a minute for the employee to make the exchange. Jamison has to struggle with all the items in his hands. He manages. The walk back to where he last saw his friends is brief, but they''re nowhere to be found.


    Jamison glances around for any sign of them, and finally spots Theo standing by the claw machine. Jamison starts walking over, but as he rounds the corner he stops. Zoe is hugging Derek with a stuffed bunny clutched in her hand.


    There''s a moment where Jamison considers just eating all the snacks himself, but he isn''t that kind of guy. Jamison takes a deep breath. Zoe removes herself from Derek, and starts gushing about the bunny rabbit toy. Theo makes eye contact with Jamison. They share a bitter look.


    "Hey. I got us snacks." Jamison announces.


    Zoe perks up at the word ''snacks'' and pounces on an offered cotton candy. Her joy softens Jamison''s mood, but the way Derek stands so close to her irritates him. He hands Theo his popcorn, and finally offers Derek his.


    "Someone eat your birthday cake, bud?" Derek taunts.


    Jamison''s hand clenches the popcorn bag slightly. He tells himself he isn''t that kind of guy, but his emotions get the better of him. He shoves the bag into Derek''s chest. Derek glares at him whilst grabbing the offered bag. Zoe and Theo stare at the exchange in shock. Derek gets in Jamison''s face.


    "The fuck was that?" Derek snaps.


    "We need to talk." Jamison says icily.


    Derek frowns at his taller friend. Jamison turns and hands Theo the drinks and his cotton candy. Theo takes them with a complicated expression. Zoe is giving her friends concerned glances. Jamison turns back to Derek and pulls him toward a side door by the shoulder.


    "Hands off, beanstalk." Derek refuses.


    Jamison removes his hand begrudgingly, and the pair of boys make their way out the side door. It leads into a quiet alley neighboring the arcade. The sound of cars moving and people walking is muffled here.


    "So what is this about?" Derek asks.


    Derek''s attitude shows he doesn''t really get what Jamison has a problem with. Jamison takes a deep breath, and looks Derek in the eyes.


    "You need to stay away from Zoe." Jamison warns.


    Jamison''s cold glare is reflected by Derek as he realizes what his friend is saying. Derek laughs humorlessly, and grabs Jamison by the shoulder.


    "Buddy! Look... it isn''t my fault you''re too slow." Derek says with mock friendliness.


    Jamison pulls away his shoulder, and shoves Derek backwards. Derek laughs in shock at his friend. He raises his arms as if wanting to fight, and clenches his fists.


    "You really wanna do this?" Derek asks darkly.


    "She''s not yours, Derek." Jamison replies just as seriously.


    "Never said she was, ya creep." Derek scoffs.


    That last word sets Jamison off. He lunges for Derek faster than he expects, and Derek is wide eyed as Jamison slams him against the brick wall. Derek feels his head and back ache. The veins in his arms pop as he swings a right hook for Jamison''s face. The impact sends Jamison stumbling back a few steps.


    "Both of you fucking stop!" Theo suddenly snaps.


    Jamison wipes blood from his nose and turns to look at Theo. Derek is groaning as his back aches from getting slammed, but he looks to Theo as well. Theo is standing there with a taser in his pale hand. The thing crackles with electricity.


    "What the fuck?" Derek remarks.


    Theo adjusts his glasses, and keeps the taser between him and his friends.


    "Both of you imbeciles need to cool the fuck off." Theo says coldly.


    Derek slowly stops clenching his fists. Jamison relaxes his shoulders after Theo''s words sink in. The two boys'' hearts are still pounding, but they''re ''calm'' enough to hear Theo out.


    "I know how both of you feel, but this isn''t the way to go about things." Theo explains.


    Theo''s words bring a snarky smile to Derek''s face. he leans on his arm while trying to ignore the throbbing pain in his back.


    "You feel the same way, huh? I doubt she''d be into you, Theodore." Derek retorts.


    "Shut up and let him talk." Jamison scolds.


    Derek shuts up, but he''s glaring daggers at both of his friends.


    "We''ve been friends for basically our whole lives, so one girl shouldn''t rip our friend group apart like this!" Theo rambles.


    Jamison''s slams his palm against the dumpster he''s standing next to. The way he''s staring at Theo makes it clear he doesn''t appreciate their fourth member being referred to as ''one girl''. Theo puts up his hand as a placating gesture.


    "I''m not saying she isn''t one of us, but what I am saying is we''ll tear each other apart at this rate." Theo continues.


    "I don''t see an issue there. I''ll get the girl and you two losers can fuck off." Derek argues.


    Theo gives Derek a sad look. Derek is nursing his wounds from a fight with Jamison, yet he''s still acting high and mighty. Jamison doesn''t say anything in response to Derek''s comment.


    "I know you don''t mean that Derek, so I''ll just pretend you didn''t say it." Theo says quietly.


    Derek goes to argue, but Theo cuts him off.


    "I propose we make a truce." Theo states seriously.


    There''s an awkward silence as the boys process Theo''s idea. Derek looks a little confused. Jamison looks thoughtful. The boy''s don''t get anymore time to think as the door behind Theo is opening.


    "Shit, it''s Zoe." Theo mutters darkly.


    Theo stuffs his taser into his pants frantically, Jamison wipes his bloody nose with his shirt, and Derek attempts to stand up straight. Zoe steps out and looks between the three boys. She tilts her head softly, and gives them each worried looks.


    "What in the world were you guys doing back here?" She questions.


    Theo''s complexion is terribly pale, but he manages to step forward as their spokesperson.


    "We were just... talking about boy things." Theo says unconvincingly.


    "Boy things?" Zoe repeats doubtfully.


    Jamison prays that his nose doesn''t bleed while Zoe is watching, and steps out from behind Theo. He does his best to ignore the pain flaring up in his face.


    "We were just hanging out and talking about girls, haha. Why don''t we head back inside?" Jamison deflects.


    Jamison leads Zoe inside by the wrist, and Theo quickly turns to Derek. Theo pulls a first aid kit out from behind his back. Derek gives him an irritated glare, but allows Theo to approach with first aid supplies in hand. Theo starts cleaning the wounds on Derek''s back.


    "Where the hell do you hide all that stuff..?" Derek grumbles.


    Theo doesn''t answer his question.

 Uneasy Alliance [17]

    The electronic beeps and boops of the arcade machines provide an air of nostalgia. Two teens sit across from one another in a booth. The tall boy, Jamison. The short girl, Zoe.


    Zoe squints at Jamison''s face. He''s acting like he''s fine, but Zoe can tell something is wrong. Zoe takes another bite of her cotton candy.


    What''s he hiding from me?


    The sound of the nearby door opening catches Zoe''s attention. She looks over to see Theo and Derek walking over with sour looks on their faces. Derek looks even more agitated than usual.


    "What happened? You guys seem super out of it." Zoe questions.


    Jamison''s finger taps out a rhythm on the table. He offers a flimsy excuse.


    "Oh nothing really important. Let''s just eat for now, yeah?" Jamison replies.


    Zoe is content to eat more of her cotton candy. Her brown eyes flicker to Theo''s face. He''s so pale he looks like a ghost, and he''s trembling slightly. Zoe shifts her attention to Derek. The beefy boy is grimacing as if in immense pain, but he forces a smile upon noticing Zoe''s gaze. She turns back to Jamison and nearly drops her cotton candy.


    "You''re bleeding!" She yelps.


    Jamison''s eyes widen as he realizes he''s been caught with blood trickling from his nose. Zoe immediately reaches over with a napkin to wipe off the blood, but she can''t reach. Derek and Theo give Jamison a death glare as Zoe leans over the table. Jamison wisely takes the hint and stops Zoe from helping him as she attempts to get closer.


    "I-I got it, don''t worry." Jamison insists.


    "But you''re bleeding! Let me help!" Zoe complains.


    Jamison uses a napkin to wipe his nose before gently putting pressure on it. Zoe pouts up at Jamison like he''s just committed a grave offense. The looks Derek and Theo give Jamison ensure he doesn''t waver. Jamison carefully removes the napkin to reveal his unbloodied nose.


    "All good now, see?" Jamison replies.


    Zoe sighs, nodding her head in agreement.


    "Well at least it stopped bleeding... Did you hit your head or something?" Zoe questions.


    Jamison gives Derek and Theo a panicked glance.


    "I-I uh... I just tripped and smacked my nose on a dumpster out back." Jamison lies.


    Derek and Theo give him a thumbs up. Zoe glances at them, so they immediately pretend they weren''t doing anything out of the ordinary. Their ''not doing anything'' faces are ironically highly conspicuous.


    What''s up with these dorks?


    I''ve never seen them all so nervous.


    "That''s pretty clumsy of you... Usually you''re so nimble!" Zoe remarks.


    Jamison is sweating bullets. He swallows the lump in his throat, and tries to act like everything is fine. That''s when Theo''s head hits the table. The sound of him falling face first onto the table startles the whole crew, and Zoe squeals in shock.


    "Oh my god, did he just pass out?!" Zoe squeals.


    Derek and Jamison exchange a panicked look as Zoe pulls the unconscious Theo up in his seat. Her small hands gently check his pulse. He''s burning up terribly, so she pushes her cold unopened sprite to his forehead. Zoe''s hands slips over his as she tries to comfort her weakest friend.


    "Z-Zoe maybe you should... Ah..." Derek stammers.


    "He passed out!" Zoe defends her actions.


    Theo''s eyelids flutter as he comes to. He feels the cold can on his forehead and a soft hand holding his. The first thing Theo sees as he opens his eyes is Jamison''s accusatory glare. The gentle sensation of Zoe''s hand in his is almost enough to convince him to ignore Jamison. Almost.


    "I-I''m fine now, Zoe." Theo murmurs.


    "You''re fine? Theo, you just lost consciousness!" Zoe argues.


    Theo manages to pull his hand from Zoe''s grasp. He smiles apologetically as he takes the can from Zoe and holds it to his own forehead. Jamison''s glare relaxes. Derek''s eyes also lose their edge as Theo honors their unofficial truce.


    "God you guys are just so intent on ignoring your own health!" Zoe complains.


    "Nah, we''re just made of tougher stuff." Derek argues.


    Zoe turns to Derek as if to argue, but her eyes catch on the boy''s arm. There''s no potion to blame for her attraction now. She squeezes her bunny to her chest before glaring up at Derek.


    "You guys are just acting tough." Zoe grumbles.


    Derek puts his arms behind his head as if he doesn''t have a care in the world. He leans back in his seat casually. Jamison is giving Derek a threatening glare.


    "Not acting, we are tough. Well maybe not Theo, but Jamison and I- ouch!" Derek starts to gloat.


    Derek''s face twists into a pained grimace. The cushioning of the chair puts enough pressure on his wound to cause excruciating pain.


    "Fuck- ouch... ah..." Derek curses, and then realizes Zoe is looking at him.


    "...Is your back hurting?" Zoe asks coldly.


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    The accusatory look in Zoe''s doe eyes makes it tough to lie. Jamison gives Derek a shake of the head. Theo is too out of it really care. Zoe gently pulls Derek''s shirt up and pulls him to check what''s going on with his back. Jamison makes a neck slicing motion at Derek.


    "Z-Zoe, knock it off." Derek protests.


    Derek doesn''t really fight the girl''s efforts. Her eyes linger on the toned muscle she''s just exposed, but she forgets that after seeing the bloodied state of Derek''s back. Her small hand starts to tremble. Derek tugs his shirt back down.


    "Zoe, are you okay?" Derek asks worriedly.


    Jamison''s expression shifts to one of concern as Zoe shakes like a leaf. Derek gently holds her shoulders, and brings his eyes to her level. Zoe slowly stops shivering and looks back at Derek.


    "Y-You''re really hurt! It''s all scraped up!" Zoe whimpers.


    Zoe grabs Derek in a hug, but she makes sure not to put her hands where his wound is. Derek gives Jamison a helpless look. Theo is awake enough to see what''s going on, and he watches with a complicated expression.


    "I-I''m totally okay, Zoe. Please don''t worry so much-" Derek starts.


    "No you''re not! Of course I''d worry about my best friends... You guys are like brothers to me." Zoe argues, her face in Derek''s chest.


    There''s a very long awkward silence after that. Jamison looks a little ill, and Derek doesn''t look much better. Theo''s complexion doesn''t change, albeit he was already white as a sheet. Derek gently removes Zoe from him. She whimpers as she''s pulled off Derek''s sturdy body.


    "I... think we should take you home." Derek says quietly.


    "What? No! It''s... well it is past eight..." Zoe replies.


    "Yeah I think your parents would kill us if we didn''t bring you home, Zoe." Jamison adds.


    Derek slips out of the booth and stands. Zoe follows him with a forlorn expression. Theo follows them with shaky steps. Jamison helps Theo up. Derek and Jamison wordlessly help Theo walk. Zoe smiles at how they help one another unprompted.


    "I''m glad we''re all such good friends." Zoe comments with a na?ve smile.


    "Y-Yeah, haha." Jamison laughs awkwardly.


    The walk out of the arcade is quite the ordeal. They manage to get Theo back on his feet by the time they''re outside, but it''s slow going. The passing cars draw Zoe''s attention. Zoe purses her lips as she looks from the road to Jamison.


    "Jamison, how come you don''t drive to school?" Zoe asks.


    "Oh I do sometimes, but gas does cost money." Jamison replies.


    Zoe nods in understanding. Jamison does come from money, but his parents are very strict on how much he spends. Zoe isn''t really sure what his parents are like. Her only knowledge on them comes from Jamison''s stories.


    "Hey Jamison... what''re your parents like?" Zoe questions.


    "My parents? Ah... They''re alright, I guess." Jamison replies indifferently.


    Jamison frowns slightly as he walks side by side with Zoe. The group is entering the suburbs now. Jamison''s eyes linger on a particular house''s porch. There''s a child''s bike leaning up against the brick wall. A mismatched set of chairs sits around a well used table. Chalk drawings adorn the sidewalk leading up to the door.


    "They''re never home." Jamison adds.


    "Why not?" Zoe prods.


    "I guess because they''re working all the time. Off at meetings, company events, and other stuff like that." Jamison replies bitterly.


    Zoe''s expression shifts to one of concern as her tallest friend''s mood goes sour. She looks ahead to see a familiar street, and an idea worms its way into her head. She skips a few paces ahead of the group, and starts walking backwards.


    "Hey Derek, you remember what you said when we saw the witch''s shop?" Zoe asks.


    Derek''s pained look fades as he recalls their trip to the witch''s shop. Derek said a lot of things on that outing, but he can''t remember anything specific. Derek shakes his head.


    "Nah, I don''t really remember. What was it?" Derek replies.


    Zoe keeps walking backwards toward their destination. Derek''s words bring a sneaky smile to her face. She blushes as if she''s about to say something embarrassing, and shouts.


    "Last one there''s a pussy!" Zoe shouts.


    The boys can hardly believe their ears. Zoe immediately spins around and starts running toward her home. Derek starts to laugh as he watches Zoe''s dark hair flap in her wake. Theo breaks into a sprint without hesitation.


    "Guess we''d better start running?" Derek remarks.


    "You go on ahead. My head is fucking killing me." Jamison replies.


    "Suit yourself, pussy." Derek jokes.


    Derek feels a strange sense of deja vu as he runs after Theo and Zoe. Last time it was a forest. Now it''s a suburban neighborhood. Derek''s legs carry him forward faster than his peers. He passes Theo quickly, and catches up to Zoe.


    "You- Huff- Are so- Huff- Fast! Hah-" Zoe pants out.


    Zoe''s house is just around the corner now. Derek could pass her and take first place, but he''d rather let Zoe win. Her smile should be worth it.


    "I WIN! Hah... haha..." Zoe yells.


    Zoe flops onto the grass after proclaiming her victory. Derek walks up beside her, and sits down. Zoe''s usually pale cheeks are flushed bright red. Her smile is enough to melt the coldest of hearts. Theo is the next to arrive.


    "Hah... That was... not bad." Theo wheezes.


    "You feel better?" Zoe asks him.


    "Yeah. I think I needed the workout." Theo replies with a chuckle.


    Theo takes a seat on the sidewalk in front of the other two. The boy pulls off his glasses, and wipes away sweat with his shirt. Eventually Jamison shows up, and he''s last place. Zoe sits up when she hears his footsteps.


    "Heh. You''re the pussy." Zoe mumbles hysterically.


    "Yup, you got me." Jamison agrees.


    The sound of the front door to Zoe''s house opening catches the teens off guard. Standing on the porch is Zoe''s father. The imposing man''s gaze first fixes on Derek. The way his brow twitches gives Derek goosebumps.


    "Hey, Dad!" Zoe exclaims.


    Jamison''s height puts him next on the list; Zoe''s father gazes at Jamison like he''s calculating the best way to cut down an unwanted tree growing in his front yard. Jamison shudders.


    "You boys best run along, now." Zoe''s father says ominously.


    Derek and Jamison immediately start walking. Theo is still sitting on the sidewalk when Zoe approaches her father. Zoe and her father embrace one another, but her father stares down. Theo''s toes start to tingle. He gets up, and speed walks away.


    "What the- where did they go?" Zoe wonders aloud.


    "They probably went home, kiddo." Zoe''s father replies.


    ~


    Three figures sit around a fire. The flickering orange flame licks at the darkness like a dragon''s tongue. Each figure is obscured by a hood, and they sit upon carved oak stumps. The tallest figure tosses a dry gnarled branch into the fire, and it crackles with life.


    "The terms of the pact?" The tallest one beckons.


    The shortest of the three pulls a leather-bound tome from behind his back. The suspicious book is branded with a triangular rune. The shortest figure flips to the first page, and begins reciting the scripture in a hushed voice.


    "The first term: thou shalt not touch the chosen." The shortest whispers.


    The bulkiest of the hooded ones stomps his foot into the black soil beneath the brazier. His dissatisfaction doesn''t stop the ceremony.


    "The second term: thou shalt not speak foul things to the chosen." The shortest hisses.


    Another outburst from the bulkiest of the three. His obscured hands clench into fists. The tallest turns to look at the bulkiest for a moment, but does not speak.


    "The third term: thou shalt not bestow offerings to the chosen." The shortest murmurs.


    Finally the bulkiest grabs the firepit by the rim, and overturns it! The flames scatter harmlessly into the black soil, yet the tallest and shortest figures stand with a shout.


    "Dude, what the fuck?!" Theo shouts.


    Theo pulls his hoodie''s hood aside, and clutches his ''tome'' to his chest. The bulky figure tears off his jacket and tosses it to the ground in a fit of anger.


    "This is bullshit! I don''t want to do this." Derek snaps.


    The tallest figure removes his hood with a flourish. His hand gently grips Derek''s shoulder.


    "I get how you feel, but Zoe sees us as her brothers." Jamison argues.


    Derek''s anger wavers. He takes a seat with his head in his hands. The signals all feel so mixed, and he''s afraid to ask Zoe how she feels. Jamison and Theo take their seats.


    "...This is for Zoe." Derek mumbles.


    Jamison nods resolutely. Theo tosses the ''tome'' into the still burning flames.


    "For Zoe."

 Girl Friends or Girlfriends [18]

    There''s nothing like getting pizza delivered in the comfort of your own home. Eating a delicious pepperoni pie with your family is a staple of life-at least to Zoe, it is. The gooey cheese and slightly spicy pepperoni makes for a happy girl. Zoe kicks her feet back and forth as she eats. Zoe''s father glances over.


    "You have a good day, kiddo?" Zoe''s father asks.


    "Mhm!" Zoe replies with a mouthful of pizza.


    Zoe''s mother clicks her tongue at her daughter''s poor table manners.


    "What have I told you about talking with your mouth full, Zoe?" She scolds.


    "Sorry, Mom!" Zoe apologizes.


    Zoe finishes her fourth slice of the night, and takes a drink of her water. Seeing her mother and father reminds her of something she isn''t sure is possible. She clears her throat to get their attention.


    "Ahem. I was um... wondering if I could see a doctor about, uh, H-R-T?" Zoe asks stiffly.


    Zoe''s mother raises her brow. She swallows the food in her mouth, and voices her question.


    "Zoe... Why do you need that if you''re already in a girl body?" Zoe''s mother asks.


    "I want to make my boy body look pretty, too." Zoe replies.


    The look her parents give her makes Zoe''s stomach churn.


    "I-I just mean I want to try! I know I''m not pretty as a boy or anything, but I just-" Zoe rambles.


    "I''ll make an appointment first thing tomorrow, honey." Zoe''s mother cuts her off.


    The ugly knot in Zoe''s stomach gets a little tighter as her parents whisper to one another. Zoe''s father finally voices his opinion.


    "Zoe I don''t want you talking down about yourself like that. It''s ok to not like your original body, but it''s not okay to... to put yourself down. You can be beautiful without magic." Zoe''s father lectures.


    That ugly black knot loosens.


    ~


    Zoe''s favorite part of her school day is finally here: lunch time. Zoe practically sprints out of 4th period in an effort to have as much girl time as possible. The unisex bathroom serves as Zoe''s changing room for the third time this week, and she manages the transformation in less than two minutes.


    Ah, sweet girlhood.


    Time to find my posse!


    Scanning the lunchroom, Zoe spots Jamison''s beanstalk self standing near their usual lunch table. She walks over to see both Theo and Derek there as well. The three boys are all talking to each other with serious looks on their faces, but Zoe can''t make out what they''re saying.


    "Hey doofuses!" Zoe greets them.


    Jamison stiffens up as Zoe offers him a high five. Theo and Derek simultaneously let out an irritated groan as Jamison accepts Zoe''s high five. She gives them an incredulous look.


    "What''s your guys'' problem?" Zoe asks.


    "It was just a high five! We need to add a fourth term, Theo." Jamison argues.


    "Fourth term? What?" Zoe asks in confusion.


    "N-nothing, Zoe. We should grab our food before the line gets too long." Jamison deflects.


    Zoe decides not to pry into the boys'' ''man talk'' and instead queue up for her lunch. The boys follow her into the lunch line. Theo rubs his head as if suffering from a headache, and quietly complains to Derek.


    "Dude, we need to all chill the fuck out. I''m so tired of this." Theo grumbles.


    Derek cracks his knuckles.


    "Honestly I usually want to punch you in the face whenever you talk, but for once I agree with you." Derek replies haughtily.


    "Don''t know why you gotta be such an ass, Derek." Jamison comments.


    "Someone has to be the alpha, of course." Derek replies sarcastically.


    Jamison smiles at that. He can''t stay mad at Derek despite how much of an ass the guy can be. Somehow he always manages to skirt around being outright awful. Barely.


    "Honestly I think we should take a day off." Jamison states.


    Zoe pouts as the line moves forward, and thus ends her eavesdropping. The spicy chicken sandwich that gets slapped onto her tray fails to compensate her loss. The three boys follow her out to their usual table, but someone is already sitting there.


    "Hi! I thought I saw you over here yesterday, but I wasn''t sure." Tracy says with a wave.


    "Oh my gosh, hey!" Zoe squeals.


    The boys watch Zoe sit down beside Tracy, and awkwardly shuffle into open seats. Derek and Theo both look to Jamison for an explanation, but he doesn''t have one. The tall boy tilts his head in Zoe''s direction.


    "So who are your friends..?" Tracy asks warily.


    "Oh these are my best friends! I''ve known them since we were in kindergarten." Zoe briefly introduces.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Tracy''s eyebrows go up. She looks at the three boys with barely disguised suspicion. She scoots closer to Zoe, and gently places her hand on Zoe''s head.


    "So these guys... They don''t do anything weird with you, do they?" Tracy asks quietly.


    Zoe makes a face at Tracy, and shakes her head hurriedly.


    "No! They''re my childhood friends, and like, the most trusted people I know. Well, unless you count Mom and Dad." Zoe explains.


    Jamison is watching this exchange with a complicated look. Tracy isn''t a bad person or anything, but she''s not one of the crew. Theo is distracting himself with math problems. Derek is sweating bullets.


    "Isn''t she the chick you were ogling last Friday?" Jamison whispers.


    "Dude shut the fuck up." Derek growls back.


    Zoe''s turns and points to Theo with an excited smile on her face. Tracy glances over at Theo suspiciously. She listens intently to Zoe as she introduces each of her childhood friends.


    "That''s Theo! He''s a big nerd, but also really smart and kind of sweet when you get under that icy exterior." Zoe explains.


    "Yeah I see the nerd part. Gives me incel vibes, honestly." Tracy remarks.


    Zoe doesn''t really understand what Tracy means by that. She points to Jamison next.


    "Anyways, that''s Jamison! He''s like the leader of our group, and he''s really tall. I think he''s probably the nicest and most caring of the group." Zoe gushes.


    Tracy quirks her brow, but doesn''t interrupt this time. Zoe finally points to a rather nervous looking Derek.


    "And that''s Derek. He''s kind of a jerk, but sometimes he''s really... cute." Zoe whispers that last part.


    Tracy scrutinizes Derek for this so called ''cuteness'', but she can''t find it. Her frown deepens when she recognizes Derek from a previous encounter.


    "Oh. You''re the one who got rejected by Nadia... yikes." Tracy remarks.


    Derek''s face turns beet red as Tracy calls him out. Zoe blinks in surprise, and turns from Tracy to Derek. She squints at him suspiciously.


    "Derek, did that happen? How come you never told us?" Zoe questions.


    Jamison stifles a chuckle as Derek is put into a tough spot. Funnily enough both Theo and Jamison heard this story from Derek, but Derek adamantly refused to let Zoe hear about it. This happened roughly two weeks ago.


    "I uh... It might have happened. Sorry." Derek stammers.


    Tracy rolls her eyes at Derek''s response. She gently takes Zoe''s small hand, and holds it to get her attention. Zoe turns to look up at her curiously with those adorable doe eyes.


    "Zoe, I was wondering if you wanted to hang out at my place after school?" Tracy asks sweetly.


    Three pairs of eyes laser in on Tracy like snipers taking aim. Tracy gives the boys the side eye, and smirks cheekily. Zoe excitedly replies to the offer.


    "Oh my gosh, yes! I''d love to!" Zoe accepts.


    Their conversation is interrupted by the bell. Tracy and Zoe get up together, and dump their trays. The three boys watch Zoe and her girl friend walk out of the cafeteria in a daze. Derek turns to Jamison and grabs him by the shirt.


    "Did we just get conned?!" Derek shouts.


    Jamison grips Derek''s wrists to stop his shaking. Theo puts away his math problems, and pushes his glasses up.


    "She completely outmaneuvered us. I''m about ninety percent certain Tracy is stealing our girl." Theo says darkly.


    The three boys realize lunch is over. They dump their trays with their tails between their legs and start walking to class. Jamison finally speaks up.


    "So are they like, girl friends, or girlfriends?"


    He doesn''t get an answer.


    ~


    Tracy guides Zoe by the hand to her home. The flower garden out front gives her house a vibrant look. Zoe smiles down at the flowers as Tracy unlocks the front door. Tracy pulls Zoe into the neatly decorated interior. There''s pictures of Tracy with her mother and a vaguely familiar looking brother.


    "My mom and brother aren''t home, so we have the place to ourselves." Tracy says suggestively.


    Zoe smiles at the exclusively flower themed decorations. She giggles at the adorable tulip shaped lighting fixtures.


    "Cool! I love your house... it''s so cute!" Zoe exclaims cluelessly.


    Tracy does her best not to get frustrated with Zoe''s innocence.


    Deep breaths.


    Just be patient.


    Tracy gently pulls Zoe along by the hand. The two girls make their way upstairs and into Tracy''s bedroom. Tracy shuts and locks the door, but Zoe doesn''t even notice. Her focus is on the watercolor paintings adorning Tracy''s walls.


    "I didn''t know you painted... Is this a fish?" Zoe comments.


    "That is actually supposed to be a submarine." Tracy explains sarcastically.


    "Ohhh... It''s a good submarine!" Zoe apologizes.


    "Pfft... Oh, Zoe..." Tracy starts to laugh.


    Zoe turns to look at Tracy.


    "What''s so funny?" Zoe questions.


    Tracy smiles down at Zoe before suddenly pulling Zoe onto her bed. The pair of girls flop backwards onto the soft blue bed with a shrill squeal. Zoe''s face is flushed as she pouts up at Tracy.


    "T-Tracy?! What was that for?" Zoe stammers.


    Tracy gently slides her fingertips along Zoe''s cheek. Zoe stares wide eyed as Tracy''s finely manicured hand gently grasps her by the chin. They''re close enough to touch now. Zoe''s brown eyes stare up into Tracy''s green eyes.


    "You''re just so gosh darn cute, Zoe." Tracy whispers.


    "I- Uh- Th-Thank you?" Zoe whimpers.


    Seeing Zoe get nervous pours cold water over Tracy. She leans back, giving the shorter dark haired girl some space. Zoe looks over at Tracy shyly.


    "Honestly I think you''re far prettier, Tracy. You even know how to do makeup!" Zoe compliments.


    "I could teach you, if you want?" Tracy offers.


    "W-Would you really?" Zoe gasps.


    "Gladly! I could even give you a makeover." Tracy exclaims.


    Zoe''s eyes sparkle at the prospect of a makeover. Tracy laughs lightly as she gets up off her bed to get things ready.


    Tracy sets up her vanity and beckons Zoe over. Zoe meekly shuffles over and sits down. Tracy starts by brushing out Zoe''s lengthy dark hair. The process transforms Zoe''s unruly mane into a beautiful river of dark hair.


    "You should really brush your hair at least once a day." Tracy lectures.


    Zoe nods softly in understanding. Tracy gets out her foundations, and matches a tone to Zoe''s pale skin. The cool gel tickles Zoe as Tracy applies and smooths it out across her features. Once Tracy is satisfied with Zoe''s foundation she pulls out the blush.


    "We''re gonna stick to simple stuff for now, mkay?" Tracy warns Zoe.


    "Gotcha!" Zoe acknowledges.


    Tracy''s deft hands apply a touch of blush to each of Zoe''s cheeks. She goes back and forth several times before deciding the blush is up to par. Tracy switches over to eyeliner, and Zoe''s eyes widen fearfully.


    "Relax, Zoe. It won''t hurt you." Tracy soothes.


    Zoe swallows her anxiety and lets Tracy do her work. The dark eyeliner gradually outlines each of Zoe''s eyes. Tracy carefully draws a small wingtip on each eye, and smiles in satisfaction.


    "Almost there!" Tracy encourages.


    Tracy pulls out the mascara and guides Zoe through applying it. By the time they finish Zoe''s eyelashes are both darker and fuller. Tracy finally brings out the lip gloss. The fairly natural reddish pink gloss gives Zoe''s lips extra volume and shine.


    Zoe goes to stand up, but Tracy gently pushes her down by the shoulder. She lightly shakes a can of setting spray, and aims for Zoe''s face.


    "Close your eyes until I say to open." Tracy orders.


    Zoe shuts her eyes quickly. Tracy double checks Zoe''s eyes are closed, and sprays every inch of her face. The setting spray helps Zoe''s makeover stick. Tracy spins Zoe around to face the vanity''s mirror.


    "Okay, open your eyes." Tracy says with a smile.


    Zoe opens her eyes to see a beautiful girl adorned in simple yet effective makeup. The way her lips shine and her eyelashes flutter is just ever so slightly enhanced. The small blemishes on her face are nonexistent. The gorgeous eyeliner is the icing on the cake.


    "Holy fuck, I look hot!" Zoe exclaims.


    Tracy laughs hysterically as Zoe blushes at her own words. Zoe pulls out her phone and takes a picture of her makeover with a shy grin. She sends it off to the group chat with the boys before Tracy joins her for a second selfie.


    Having a girl friend is the best!

 Amateur Chef Zoe [19]

    Crickets chirp softly throughout the neighborhood at this time of day. The sun is nearly set, and the stars are out. Chilly winds blow through, yet Zoe''s coat keeps her warm. She rereads the group chat with a bashful smile on her face.


    Zoe: Tracy did my makeup! Thoughts?


    > View Attachment


    Derek: Holy fuck you look hot


    Theo: SECOND TERM OF THJE AGREEMENT!


    Derek: Bro fucking look at the picture


    Jamison: You look stunning, Zoe. <3


    Theo: Zoe do I have your permission to print this picture out


    Zoe: Uh what??


    Derek: Bro that''s so creepy wtf


    Theo: I won''t do anything weird with it I swear


    Theo: It''s for my conspiracy board


    Jamison: ???


    Derek: ???


    Zoe: Oh sure yeah!


    Zoe: Also thanks guys, love ya <3


    For some reason nobody said anything after Zoe sent that last message, but that''s not her problem. She hums a little song to herself as she steps up to her home. She opens the front door, and calls out to her family.


    "I''m home!"


    Strangely enough nobody answers. Zoe turns to peek outside and realizes her parents are both out. Zoe pouts after realizing she''s alone.


    I guess this is as good a time as any to work on my new hobby.


    Time to cook!


    Zoe didn''t feel any aversion to cooking when she was a boy, but she also didn''t really feel like doing anything as a boy. Hopefully cooking delicious food can be both entertaining and relaxing. Plus she can give yummy treats to her friends!


    The spacious kitchen provides Zoe with ample space to work. She scrolls through her phone for the notes, and chooses to make ''baked macaroni and cheese''. The finished product is a rich breadcrumb infused casserole comprised of macaroni noodles, cheese, and butter.


    This sounds delicious... I must have it!


    Zoe pulls up her sleeves and gets to work. She pulls out a rectangular baking pan and gives it a good coating of olive oil spray. She checks the instructions before diving into the next step.


    One big pot full of water goes on the stovetop. Zoe shifts her focus to the cheese as the water heats up. According to the recipe the most delicious option is to take a block of cheese and shred it yourself.


    Zoe rifles through the drawers like a curious mouse. It takes her a good minute, but she finds a cheese grater. She fetches a block of sharp cheddar from the fridge. The water still isn''t boiling.


    This is already kind of fun!


    Using a bowl to catch the shredded cheese, Zoe pushes the cheese block across the top of the cheese grater. She repeats this process until the pot of water starts to boil.


    Zoe puts her cheese on hold, and grabs the macaroni noodles. She pours the whole box into the pot. The macaroni needs to cook for several minutes. Zoe resumes the cheese grating.


    With a bowl full of cheese Zoe can finally work on the cheese sauce. She puts a small saucepan on the stove. Butter, salt, pepper, and a hefty helping of freshly shredded cheese get dumped into the saucepan. Zoe stirs the sauce with a whisk.


    Ding!


    Zoe turns back to the stove and removes the cooked pasta. She quickly drains the water into the sink. Now that the pasta is ready she can start working on filling the baking pan. One layer of macaroni goes into the pan, and then some grated cheese. Zoe finishes up the cheese sauce in time to pour plenty into this layer.


    This process is repeated until there are three layers of macaroni and cheese all stacked into the pan. Zoe pops the lid off the dried breadcrumbs, and sprinkles a generous portion over the top.


    Now to bake it...


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    Zoe slides the baking pan stuffed full of delicious cheesy goodness into the oven. She sets the heat and timer. Now all that''s left is to wait nearly twenty minutes for it to bake. Zoe sits at the dining table...


    ~


    Ding!


    Zoe quickly goes over to the oven to retrieve her masterpiece. She uses an oven mitt to open the door. The heat blasts her in the face, but she presses on. The oven mitt makes it easy to pull out the tray of mac and cheese. Zoe sets it on the counter.


    The smell alone is making her mouth water. Zoe quickly snaps a picture of the intact dish, and serves herself a plate. She sits down at the dining table with a happy sigh, and pulls out her phone.


    Zoe: Guess what I just made!


    Derek: Three tents


    Jamison: Derek shut the fuck up


    Zoe: ???


    Jamison: What''d you make?


    Zoe: Baked macaroni and cheese! :D


    > View Attachment


    Jamison: Wow! Awesome job!


    Derek: Damn that looks good, you gonna bring some to school?


    Zoe: I sure will! It tastes pretty good. :P


    Theo: Told you it would work


    Jamison: Theo that was still super sexist of u


    Zoe: What''re u guys talking about?


    Derek: Just Theodore being himself, lol


    Zoe leans back in her chair with a yawn. The delicious food is making her sleepy, but she presses on. She can''t just leave the yummy food on the counter.


    Zoe divides and bags the remaining food whilst humming to herself. There''s enough portions for Zoe''s mother, Zoe''s father, Tracy, Derek, Jamison, and Theo to have one! Plus an extra for Zoe''s lunch tomorrow.


    The sound of the front door opening catches Zoe''s interest. She turns to see her mother and father enter. Zoe''s mother is wearing a black form fitting dress, and her father a button up with slacks.


    "How was the date?" Zoe asks.


    "It was wonderful." Zoe''s mother replies.


    The smell of the baked mac and cheese catches Zoe''s father''s attention. He leans over the table to get a look at it. He''s salivating. Zoe pushes a portion toward her father with a smug smile.


    "I portioned some for both of you. Try it!" Zoe offers.


    Zoe''s mother and father take their seats at the dining table. The food smells amazing, so they dig in without hesitation. Zoe''s father clears his plate in just a couple minutes.


    "Haha... Guess you liked it?" Zoe laughs shyly.


    "It was scrumptious... Miranda, do you think Zoe could cook dinner from time to time..?" Zoe''s father exclaims.


    Zoe blinks in surprise at her father''s enthusiasm. Zoe''s mother finishes her own portion before answering her husband.


    "That is up to Zoe. I wouldn''t mind the help, but it''s ultimately up to her." Zoe''s mother replies.


    "C-Can I really?!" Zoe asks excitedly.


    "Yes, of course. Your father would help too if he wasn''t only good at cooking burgers and making sandwiches." Zoe''s mother replies.


    Zoe giggles at her mother''s comment, and her father pouts. Seeing her parents enjoy her cooking fills Zoe with an unfamiliar sense of pride and fulfillment she''s unused to.


    I should have tried this earlier!


    ~


    Zoe takes a deep breath as she approaches her usual lunch table with her tray in hand. Her baked mac and cheese is stuffed into a lunchbox in her backpack, and she''s nervous about giving it to her friends.


    I really hope they like it.


    The boys are in their usual seats, and Tracy is sitting across from them with her phone in hand. Everyone perks up when Zoe takes her seat at the table.


    "Did you bring it..?" Jamison asks curiously.


    "Of course! I uh... hope you all like it." Zoe replies nervously.


    She pulls out the lunchbox and gives a portion to everyone at the table. Tracy looks pleasantly surprised, and takes a bite.


    "Oh, wow! This is really good!" Tracy gushes.


    Zoe blushes slightly.


    "I''m glad you like it!" Zoe replies with a giggle.


    The sound of a burp catches everyone off guard. Derek is covering his mouth with his hand. His plate is completely empty; Not even a crumb remains.


    "S-sorry, uh, excuse me." Derek mumbles an apology.


    "It''s fine, I''m glad you liked it!" Zoe replies with a smile.


    Derek looks at Zoe''s smile as his cheeks redden. He moves his gaze back to his lunch tray once he realizes he''s staring. The sound of a fork hitting a plate announces Jamison''s success. Jamison is leaning back in his chair after finishing his portion. He''s smiling.


    "Guys I think Theo should be the leader. This idea of his turned out amazing." Jamison sighs.


    Theo finishes his food immediately after Jamison. He turns to Zoe with a mixture of shame and gratitude in his expression.


    "Thanks for doing this Zoe... It honestly tasted wonderful." Theo thanks her guiltily.


    Zoe can hardly contain herself as she''s showered with praise. Her cheeks are starting to hurt from all the smiling. Tracy taps her fork against her plate to get everyone''s attention. They turn to her with mixed expressions.


    "I was just wondering what you meant by ''Theo''s'' idea?" Tracy asks pointedly.


    The three boys grow nervous, but they have no time to explain themselves. Zoe opens her mouth and excitedly shares the events which led to her trying out cooking.


    "Well the other day at lunch Theo suggested I try cooking!" Zoe exclaims.


    "Oh, did he?" Tracy urges her to continue.


    "Yup! He even gave me this list-" Zoe continues.


    Zoe pulls out the slightly crumpled paper which Theo gave her at lunch. The bullet point list of dishes Theo enjoys eating gives Tracy ammunition. She turns to Theo with an innocent smile.


    "Wow, so you were really eager for Zoe to agree, huh?" Tracy asks sweetly.


    Theo pushes up his glasses as if preparing to give a grand retort.


    "...Yeah, I was." Theo replies plainly.


    Tracy''s eyes narrow. Theo continues before she can interrupt him.


    "Who doesn''t want to taste food made by the girl he likes?" Theo continues boldly.


    Jamison and Derek nearly lunge at Theo for his words. Theo flinches, but doesn''t back down. Meanwhile, Zoe''s face is heating up rapidly. She''s struggling to battle the swarm of butterflies bouncing around inside her tummy. Tracy scoffs.


    "Well I think she''s too good for you boys. Having an adorable girl cook delicious meals for you, free of charge? It''s more than you deserve." Tracy says venomously.


    Zoe smacks her small hand onto the table like a judge''s gavel. Tracy looks at her in surprise.


    "You take that back!" Zoe snaps.


    Tracy tilts her head at Zoe''s anger.


    "I was just saying they don''t really-" Tracy tries to argue.


    "They''re my best friends. They mean the world to me, and of course they deserve whatever I give them. It''s not for you to decide." Zoe cuts her off.


    Tracy''s eyes widen in shock. Her eyes flit from Zoe''s angry expression to the shocked looks on the boys'' faces. She stands up, and walks off without another word. Zoe''s anger turns to sadness as she watches Tracy leave.


    Was I too harsh..?

 Theos Proposition [20]

    The school corridors grow quiet after school ends. Students flee the building whilst teachers yearn to do the same. The quiet of one particular hallway is broken by the sound of a boy being slammed into the door of a locker. Derek has Theo by the collar, and Theo''s wincing in pain.


    "The fuck was that about, four eyes?!" Derek snaps.


    "I''m sorry, okay?!" Theo barks back.


    Derek almost loses his temper again, but Jamison grabs his arm. The boy lets Theo down with a disgruntled huff. Theo pushes up his glasses.


    "I don''t think this truce thing is going to work." Jamison states the obvious.


    "Yeah no shit, sherlock." Derek gripes.


    The sound of Theo''s phone dinging draws the boys'' attention. Theo pulls out his phone with an irritated frown. That frowns melts away when he sees the message. Jamison and Derek watch his face curiously.


    Zoe: Did you mean what you said at lunch..?


    Theo turns as if to flee. Two firm hands stop him. Jamison has one shoulder. Derek has the other.


    "Who was it?" Jamison asks icily.


    Theo clutches his phone to his chest. He tries to put on his best poker face, but neither Derek nor Jamison are buying it. Derek snatches Theo''s phone out of his hands. He and Jamison read the message.


    "You son of a..." Derek starts.


    Theo flinches, but Derek doesn''t blow up. Derek''s shoulders slump. He lets out a frustrated sigh.


    "I guess you win. Maybe I should have just come clean when I had the chance." Derek admits begrudgingly.


    The sight of Derek admitting his mistakes shakes Theo up. Jamison isn''t sure what to say, but he wears the same bitter frown as Derek. The gears in Theo''s head starts to turn. He thinks back to these past few days.


    Zoe made it clear she cares deeply for all of us over and over again...


    Perhaps we should all shoot our shot?


    Theo clears his throat. Derek and Jamison look up at him bitterly.


    "I have a proposition for you both." Theo starts.


    "Go on?" Jamison acknowledges.


    "Well it''s obvious Zoe cares for us deeply. To what extent she... feels about us... I don''t know, but that hardly matters if we don''t tell her how we feel." Theo continues.


    Jamison and Derek nod to Theo in understanding.


    "So I propose we each get a shot at confessing... and dating." Theo finishes.


    Derek snorts at Theo''s outlandish idea, but Jamison seems to be seriously considering it. Derek turns to gawk at Jamison''s serious expression.


    "Dude, there''s no way that works!" Derek refutes.


    "It might not, but we won''t know until we try." Jamison replies with a grin.


    "How the fuck do three dudes take turns confessing fairly? She could just select the first." Derek gripes, glaring at Theo.


    Theo''s confidence falters under Derek''s scrutiny. He sucks in a deep breath before offering his reasoning.


    "I think we just need to consider the order of operations. If we allow the least conventionally attractive guy to go before the most conventionally attractive guy, statistically Zoe will be less likely to immediately choose one of us." Theo explains.


    Derek shakes his head in exasperation.


    "You''re fuckin'' crazy, Theodore." Derek sighs.


    "I like it." Jamison comments.


    Derek throws his hands up in frustration.


    "Fine. If we''re doing this we need to agree on the order. Who''s the last one?" Derek relents.


    Theo and Jamison both turn to look at Derek. He glances between them before realizing what they''re getting at.


    "Dude, what? I''m last?" Derek protests.


    "You''re the most conventionally attractive." Theo remarks.


    "Ew. Not into you, Theodore." Derek replies sarcastically.


    "I could have sworn you said differently back in elementary..." Jamison mutters under his breath.


    "Shut the fuck up." Derek snaps.


    Theo chooses to ignore what he just heard in favor of focusing on the task at hand.


    "So is the order decided, then?" Theo asks.


    Derek and Jamison nod in agreement.


    "Then I vote we each get one date, and that we don''t confess our feelings until the day after the previous person''s date." Theo proposes.


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    "Is there a limit on how far we can go?" Derek asks with a cheeky smile.


    Jamison gives him a light punch to the arm.


    "Don''t hurt Zoe. Only do what she''s comfortable with, you perv." Jamison says threateningly.


    "Agreed." Theo adds.


    Derek''s expression goes from irritated to embarrassed. He nods quickly.


    "I-I know. I don''t want to upset her any more than you do, dude." Derek replies guiltily.


    Theo holds up his fist as if offering to fist bump his friends. The two of them look at him in confusion.


    "It''s for ceremony. I want us to all show we agree to these terms. Humor me?" Theo explains.


    Derek and Jamison both grin at Theo''s explanation. He''s always done this sort of thing, and frankly it''s what they like about the guy. Derek puts his fist against Theo''s first. Jamison quickly follows suit. A new pact is formed.


    ~


    Reading stories about girls falling in love with cute love interests is one thing. Experiencing it yourself shortly after becoming a girl is something else entirely. Zoe stares up at her bedroom ceiling with a shy smile. Her cheeks are bright pink. She checks her phone for what must be the tenth time.


    Zoe: Did you mean what you said at lunch..?


    Theo is finally typing a message back! Zoe sits up in her bed in excitement.


    Theo: Yes I did


    Zoe feels like steam could burst from her ears at this rate. She grabs her blanket and pulls it up over her body in an attempt to hide from the feelings bouncing around inside her.


    Zoe: So you like me? Like-like me? :o


    Theo: Yes I like you


    Theo: Like-like you


    Theo: Could we talk about this in person?


    Hearing it from him sends a little jolt of excitement through Zoe''s body. She pictures Theo and her talking, alone. Maybe he would hug her, or maybe even... kiss her?! Zoe squeals like a little girl as she worms her body beneath the covers.


    Zoe realizes she hasn''t replied to Theo. She quickly types up a response. Her face is bright red as she fumbles her way through her emotions.


    Zoe: YES!


    Zoe: I mean, yeah sure!


    Theo: Great. We can talk after school, at my place


    The sound of Zoe''s door opening startles her into worming around like a scared caterpillar. She rolls over to face the door with wide eyes. Zoe''s mother stands there with a worried look on her face. As soon as she spots Zoe''s flushed face she relaxes.


    "Hm. Sorry, I heard someone squealing and got worried." Zoe''s mother explains.


    "O-Oh it''s fine, Mom! Sorry!" Zoe stammers.


    Zoe''s mother smiles ominously as she looks at her daughter''s state. The way she''s got her bedding wrapped around her says a lot. The bright shade of Zoe''s blush says even more. Zoe''s mother shakes her head softly.


    "Who''s the lucky boy?" Zoe''s mother asks cheekily.


    "W-Wh-" Zoe short circuits.


    Another squirming fest ensues as Zoe tries to pull her small self completely beneath her covers. Her mother laughs at her antics.


    "I''m just teasing, honey." Zoe''s mother says softly.


    Zoe stops her squirming. She slowly peeks out from beneath her cocoon.


    "Oh, phew." Zoe replies.


    Zoe''s mother turns to leave, but Zoe stops her by sitting up out of her cocoon. She has an unsure look on her flushed face. She gathers the courage to speak.


    "M-Mom, I know you want to know where I''ll be... so I figure I should mention I''ll be at Theo''s tomorrow evening." Zoe explains sheepishly.


    "Oh, so he''s the lucky one." Zoe''s mother says in realization.


    "What? N-No!" Zoe whines in embarrassment.


    "Hehe. I''ll see you tomorrow, honey." Zoe''s mother giggles.


    Zoe lets out a frustrated whine whilst slipping beneath her covers. Her mother quietly shuts the door on her way out. The buzz of Zoe''s phone catches her attention. She quickly checks her messages. Her enthusiasm vanishes when she sees it''s from Tracy.


    Tracy: Sorry. I shouldn''t have been so harsh today...


    Zoe: It''s not okay to talk that way about my friends. :(


    Tracy: I know


    Tracy: Sorry... </3


    ~


    Zoe: I forgive you, just don''t do it again


    Tracy: Got it! :)


    Tracy sighs as she puts her phone aside. She''s lying on her bed with a stuffed zebra in her hands. She rolls over to stare up at the ceiling. Thoughts of Zoe and her adorable little mannerisms keep haunting Tracy.


    What am I supposed to do?


    Zoe was sitting on this very bed, yet Tracy couldn''t bring herself to make the last step. She was so close. Just a few more inches forward and the kiss she so desperately wanted would have been hers.


    She looked so... nervous.


    Tracy recalls the wide eyed look Zoe gave her as they laid together. It''s clear to Tracy that Zoe has little to no experience with romance. It''s truly a shame.


    For such a cute girl to be so inexperienced...


    It''s an injustice!


    Tracy snatches her phone back off her nightstand. She quickly opens her gallery, and navigates to the picture of her and Zoe together after Zoe''s makeover. The way her eyes sparkle. The soft pouty shape of her lips. The adorable way she talks and moves.


    Tracy brings her hand up to cover her reddening face. She feels a heat rising in her body as she thinks of Zoe. Her other hand wanders to her inner thighs slowly. She stops herself.


    I shouldn''t.


    ~


    Theo stares intently at himself in the mirror. His glasses are perfectly clean. His hair is combed just so. His polo isn''t too formal, nor are his jeans. He takes a few deep breaths, and tries to picture how Zoe will react to him today.


    "Ew! What a nerd..."


    Theo quickly shakes his head at that image. Zoe cares about him. She would never say that. He tries to picture the situation once more.


    "Oh wow... You look so handsome!"


    That just sounds weird coming out of Zoe''s mouth. She might be a girl now, but she''s still the very same awkward friend he''s known for years. Zoe doesn''t know much about dating boys or girls, so Theo doubts she''d call him handsome.


    "Theo! Time to go!" Theo''s mother calls out.


    Theo quickly grabs his backpack and rushes downstairs. His mother is dressed in her casual work clothes. She twirls the car keys around her finger with a smile. Theo looks slightly neater than usual.


    "You got a date today, or something?" She teases.


    The way Theo''s cheeks redden reveals her joke may not be too far off. Theo quickly heads for the car. She follows with a smile. Theo scoots into the passenger seat of his mother''s minivan. He pulls on his seatbelt without a word.


    Theo''s mother gives him the side eye as she pulls out of their garage. The drive to school is usually silent, but today Theo''s mother has questions.


    "Is it Ryker?" She asks.


    "H-Her name is Zoe, now." Theo corrects.


    "Ah, then is it Zoe?" She presses.


    Theo can''t hide his emotions from his mother. She chuckles as Theo turns as red as a tomato. Normally Theo is a stoic boy, but clearly Zoe has an effect on him.


    "Should I expect her to be over when I get home?" Theo''s mother questions.


    "...yes, I invited her to come over after school." Theo replies stiffly.


    The minivan slows down as they approach Witchburrow High. Butterflies start to flutter in Theo''s stomach as he looks out at his peers in the courtyard. Theo''s mother clears her throat.


    "I will be at work later than usual today, so I''ll have to trust you two kids not to do anything rash. Can I trust you?" Theo''s mother asks sternly.


    Theo''s mind reels at the implications. His mother''s words bring up a concern that never crossed his mind. If Zoe is transforming to look more feminine on the outside, does she also have functioning female reproductive organs? He never considered this.


    "I-I didn''t- uh-" Theo stammers in his embarrassment.


    "Just use protection." She sighs.


    Of all the things he''s heard his mother say, that was the most outlandish. Theo doesn''t recall when he got out of the car. He''s just standing there in the courtyard. Dumbfounded.

 Zoes First Foray [21]

    Zoe groans as her alarm clock goes off. She slowly climbs out of bed, and looks over at her closet mirror. She has dark circles under her eyes. Her hair is a complete mess. Zoe looks around her room, and realizes she doesn''t have any of the stuff she needs to get ready!


    Maybe Mom can help?


    The smell of breakfast tempts Zoe, but she''s far more worried about her appearance. She rushes downstairs to see her mother pouring herself a cup of coffee.


    "Mom, I need your help! I can''t let Theo see me like this!" Zoe exclaims.


    Zoe''s mother turns around to see Zoe flipping out. She slowly sips her coffee, and sighs.


    "Honey that''s basically how you always look when you''re going to school." Zoe''s mother reminds her.


    "Mom! I have eye bags, Theo will think I''m a slob if show up to school like this!" Zoe whines.


    Zoe''s mother sets her coffee down on the counter. She walks over to Zoe and takes her hand. Zoe obediently follows her mother upstairs. They enter the master bedroom, and then the master bathroom. Zoe''s mother starts rifling through her makeup.


    "You''re lucky our skin tones are so similar." Zoe''s mother comments.


    Zoe nods sheepishly as her mother gently brushes her hair out of her face. Within a few minutes she''s looking much neater. Zoe''s mother squirts some foundation onto a blender. The all too familiar sensation of gel-like foundation being applied tickles Zoe''s face. She smiles.


    "No smiling, silly. Stay still." Zoe''s mother chides.


    Zoe quickly schools her expression. Her mother works even faster than Tracy did. The blush and foundation take half the time, and she makes applying eyeliner look as easy as tracing lines on paper. The mascara and lip gloss finish Zoe''s look. She starts to turn toward the mirror-


    "Young lady you''d better let me apply the setting spray, or your makeup will smudge." Zoe''s mother warns.


    Zoe whirls back around and straightens up. She closes her eyes. Zoe''s mother carefully spritzes her face with the setting spray. They let it dry for a few brief moments.


    "Okay, you should be good now." Zoe''s mother says.


    The girl staring back at her brings a blush to Zoe''s face. Zoe''s mother quickly gives Zoe a kiss on the top of her head. Zoe smiles and quickly hugs her mother.


    "I gotta get to work. You and Theo have a good date!" Zoe''s mother calls over her shoulder.


    "Mom! I-It''s not a date!" Zoe protests.


    Zoe stares at herself a little longer before making her way downstairs. She quickly gets her things together, and grabs a piece of toast. Unaware of the trope, Zoe runs off to school with the toast hanging from her mouth.


    ~


    Theo''s eyes wander across the other high schoolers walking through the courtyard. He''s trying to distract himself with a worksheet, but it''s not working. Jamison is leaning against the wall beside Theo. Derek sitting on the other side of Theo, pouting like a child.


    "Why does he get to be first, anyways?" Derek sulks.


    "Because he''s the skinny nerd, Derek." Jamison replies.


    Derek huffs softly. His eyes scan Theo''s outfit. The smaller boy may look a little uptight, but he isn''t unattractive. Derek glares at the back of Theo''s head.


    "Looks cute enough to be last to me..." Derek mumbles.


    Jamison chuckles upon hearing Derek''s comment. Theo is so engrossed in seeking out Zoe that he fails to hear Derek''s words.


    "Why not take Theo and let me have Zoe to myself?" Jamison offers.


    "What? Fuck off." Derek retorts.


    The two boys quit their bickering when they see a familiar girl approaching them. Theo is so focused on the people entering that he doesn''t notice Zoe nearly standing right in front of him. Zoe''s voice startles him into dropping his pencil.


    "H-Hi!" Zoe greets.


    Theo looks down and over to the left at the girl he didn''t notice. Zoe''s face is normally attractive, but the makeup she''s wearing brings her beauty to a new level. Theo''s cheeks are set ablaze as he sees the equally pretty outfit she''s wearing. She''s got on a black skirt with white plaid patterns, a familiar pair of black boots, and a white sweater with flared sleeves.


    "H-Hi. You look... incredible." Theo replies stiffly.


    "Thanks! You look cute." Zoe chirps.


    Being called cute wasn''t what Theo expected, but it is pleasant regardless. Derek and Jamison watch their exchange with somber frowns. Theo gathers the courage to say something- and the bell rings, interrupting him.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    "Aw. See you at lunch?" Zoe asks.


    "Of course." Theo replies without hesitation.


    Most of the teens head inside. Zoe moves with the crowd, but not Theo. He sighs softly as he watches her walk away. The heart stopping smile on her adorable face makes him swoon.


    "Come on, lover boy." Derek remarks.


    The three boys head inside with very different thoughts in their heads.


    I really hope I don''t mess this up.


    ~


    The soft thump of Zoe''s punk boots as she makes her way through the cafeteria is punctuated by a myriad of stares. Normally Zoe dresses casually at school, but grabbing Theo''s attention is worth the hassle. She waits in the lunch line with a bored pout on her made up face.


    "Zoe?" Someone says.


    Zoe turns to look at who''s addressing her, but she doesn''t immediately recognize him. The tall guy has a rather charming grin on his face as he sizes Zoe up. Zoe can practically feel him undressing her with his eyes.


    Ew. Creepy.


    "Um, who are you..?" Zoe asks.


    The boy looks a little hurt by that, but quickly reintroduces himself.


    "Matthew. The guy you introduced yourself to randomly in the lunch line?" Matthew reminds her.


    Zoe finally remembers the tall boy, and nods enthusiastically. Her memory of that meeting is quickly clouded by her suspicion. She narrows her eyes at the smiling boy. He''s really looking at her intently.


    "Are the zippers on those, like, a real pocket?" Matthew asks.


    Zoe blinks at his question. She glances down where his eyes are to see her black books. The little belts on the side are for decoration, but the zipper is an actual pocket.


    "Oh, yes! The buckles are just for decoration, though." Zoe explains.


    "Awesome! Where did you get those?" Matthew asks enthusiastically.


    While his eagerness to discuss her footwear comes off as a little strange, Zoe obliges.


    "I got it at the mall, actually. I don''t remember which department store... it was pretty pricey, though." Zoe replies.


    Matthew slowly nods his head at her words. He opens his mouth to say something, but the lunch line starts moving. Both of them quietly get their trays filled with food. Zoe turns to Matthew to say goodbye, but he''s already walking away.


    Weird guy.


    Zoe approaches her usual table. Tracy isn''t here, but the boys are. Theo is sitting where Derek usually does. That means Zoe''s usual seat is right beside him. She goes to sit down, but Theo quickly stands up. He pulls out her chair for her.


    "Aww, thanks!" Zoe gushes.


    Theo''s face turns a little pink as he sits back down alongside Zoe.


    "So how- uh- how was your day so far?" Zoe asks.


    "It''s been alright, but I wish we shared more classes." Theo replies softly.


    Zoe nods enthusiastically at that. Only seeing Theo during gym class and lunch is inconvenient.


    "Yeah, me too. Maybe we''ll get to see each other more in college?" Zoe wonders.


    Jamison and Derek exchange a look. Theo blinks in surprise and looks over at Zoe. He can''t tell if that means she wants to stay friends in college, or more.


    "Well, I''m pretty sure all of us are going to Witchburrow University. It''d be weird not to, considering how good their programs are." Theo comments.


    "Yeah..." Zoe says wistfully.


    Theo isn''t sure what Zoe is thinking about, but the way she looks up at him with those eyes of hers make his heart skip a beat. She gently slides her hands over to him beneath the table, and he takes it in his own hand. They both blush at the sensation.


    We''re holding hands!


    Zoe gently squeezes Theo''s hand. The warmth of his hand is lovely. Theo squeezes back, and he quietly marvels at how smooth and soft Zoe''s smaller hands are. Unbeknownst to the love birds, Jamison and Derek are quietly texting one another in a bid to stave off their jealousy.


    Jamison: They''re holding hands now.


    Derek: Oh thank fuck I thought she was doing something else


    Jamison looks at Derek like he just grew a third head. Derek glances up at him. Derek shrugs as if to say he isn''t being that outlandish. Jamison turns back to type out a reply.


    Jamison: First off, Zoe is too innocent for that. Second off, we''re at school.


    Derek: School Shmool. I''ve seen worse happen in the cafeteria


    Jamison: Fuckin nasty.


    Zoe softly giggles to herself as she looks over at Theo''s blushing face. The strange thing is she really enjoys the sensation of her hand being held in his. Who knew just holding onto someone''s hand could be so gratifying?


    Derek sighs bitterly as he watches Zoe and Theo have their fun. He turns back to his phone.


    Derek: How far do you think they''ll go..?


    Jamison: I don''t really wanna think about it


    Derek scoffs at Jamison''s message. He quickly types up a retort.


    Derek: This is THEODORE we are talking about, Jamison


    Derek: I bet twenty bucks he doesn''t get past holding hands


    Jamison: I''ll take you up on that. I bet he will.


    Derek gives Jamison a confident smirk. The two boys shake hands to make good on the bet. Meanwhile, Zoe scoots her chair closer to Theo''s. Theo''s reddened face betrays how much he''s enjoying her company. Zoe leans over, and abruptly kisses Theo on the cheek.


    Hehehe.


    Theo''s surprised expression is worth the kiss alone. The feeling of gently pressing her lips to Theo''s face for a brief moment is also worth it. Of course that''s right when the bell rings.


    "Aw, darn." Zoe sighs.


    "I-I... ah..." Theo struggles to speak.


    "See you after classes?" Zoe offers.


    Theo simply nods. He''s gone completely red, and his hand is holding the place Zoe kissed him. It looks as if he isn''t sure how to respond to such an open display of affection. Zoe trots off to dump her lunch tray with a spring in her step.


    "Pay up." Jamison says.


    Theo looks over to watch Jamison demand money from Derek. Derek lets out a frustrated groan, and walks away to dump his lunch tray. Jamison follows.


    "Dude that was on the cheek, it totally doesn''t count!" Derek argues as they walk.


    "You never specified it had to be on the mouth, Derek." Jamison shoots back.


    The two boys dump their trays and turn to leave, but Theo is standing in their way with a smug smile on his face. He points accusingly at Derek.


    "I totally got a kiss, Derek. That counts. Pay Jamison however much you bet." Theo backs Jamison up.


    "God damn it, fine!" Derek scoffs.


    Derek passes Jamison a twenty. The muscular boy storms off in a huff. Jamison and Theo leave the cafeteria side by side. Jamison glances around the corridor they enter as if he''s a spy checking for tails. Satisfied with the privacy of the hallway, he turns to Theo.


    "Are you going all the way with her?" He asks quietly.


    Theo nearly trips over his own feet as he processes Jamison''s inquiry.


    "First it''s my own mother, and now you too?!" Theo hisses in disbelief.


    Jamison throws his hands up as if to say he didn''t mean anything by it.


    "I... m-maybe, but if I want to do... that. I need a c-condom or something." Theo stutters.


    "Just treat her with respect. I doubt she''ll want to do it anyways. Not on a first date, and not on her first EVER date." Jamison warns.


    Theo nods in understanding as they arrive at their 5th period class. The second bell rings, signaling class is starting. Mrs. Johnson clicks her tongue in disapproval as the boys scramble into their seats. They put on their best apologetic smiles, and take out their notebooks.

 A First For Everything [22]

    The sound of sneakers squeaking on the polished gymnasium floor. The idle chatter of teens talking amongst themselves. The scent of sweat mixed with an unknown cleaning product. It all paints a picture, and Zoe wants no part in it.


    Zoe is sitting by the water fountain with her head hidden in her arms. She''s wearing her stupid boy clothes. She''s in her stupid boy body.


    Gosh this is the WORST!


    Footsteps approach her as she sulks. She peeks over her arm to see who it is. She whimpers upon seeing Theo''s adorable self approaching her. She quickly shoves her face back into her arm.


    Theo finally reaches her. He quietly sits on the floor beside her, and gently rubs her back. Zoe wants to protest, but his touch is too comfortable to resist. Her shoulders relax.


    "I''m sorry you have to deal with this, Zoe." Theo says quietly.


    Zoe peeks at him curiously. He''s looking out across the gymnasium. His eyes look so... sad.


    "I know it''s really hard for you to have to dress like that for classes." Theo sighs.


    "I-It''s not just the clothes. I hate how this stupid body looks." Zoe mumbles.


    Theo doesn''t immediately respond. She peeks up at him again. He''s smiling to himself now.


    "Zoe, I want to tell you a secret." Theo says.


    Zoe keeps looking up at him. Her curiosity is piqued.


    "I''ve always thought you were cute." Theo admits softly.


    This confuses her. She sits up to respond, and Theo looks over at her. She pouts in disbelief.


    "This? You think this is cute?" Zoe replies sarcastically.


    Theo blushes slightly, and nods. Zoe can hardly believe it. She rubs her face as if unsure which form she''s in.


    "Theo, i have a freaking moustache." Zoe hisses.


    "I don''t see it?" Theo replies honestly.


    "That''s because I shave it!" She adds.


    Theo laughs. The rare light sound of his laughter surprises Zoe. She tilts her head at him.


    "I think maybe you''re more feminine than you think." Theo says with a smile.


    "Hmf. If I''m so cute, then how come you never confessed to me?" Zoe questions.


    Theo looks down at the floor. There''s a melancholy air about him as he takes a deep breath. He turns to look Zoe in the eyes.


    "I... Hold on, have you ever noticed your eyes are the same in both bodies? They''re so beautiful." Theo observes.


    Zoe squints at him, pouting. She can''t hide the blush that colors her cheeks.


    "J-Just finish answering my question, Theo" Zoe insists.


    Theo smiles at that. She''s very cute when she blushes.


    "I wanted to wait until I felt I was good enough. I wanted to wait until college. Maybe there I''d be more than just ''a nerd'', you know?" Theo explains.


    Zoe''s doe eyes widen upon hearing his reason. She softly reaches out and hugs him. She doesn''t care if her classmates see.


    "You aren''t just a nerd, Theo. You''re my nerd." Zoe whispers.


    When Zoe pulls away she wears a cheeky smile. Theo''s face is turning pink as he lets her words bounce around in his head. The bell rings.


    "Only a little longer before our..." Zoe stops herself.


    "Our date?" Theo finishes for her.


    Zoe is the one blushing now. She nods excitedly, and stands. The two of them join Derek and Jamison on their way out of the gymnasium. Zoe can''t stop smiling.


    It''s a date!


    ~


    Theo looks up from his phone in search of Zoe. She still isn''t here. Several other girls pass Theo''s spot as he waits. None are anywhere near as beautiful as Zoe. Theo leans against the wall, sighing.


    "Did I make you wait long?" Zoe asks.


    Zoe''s sudden appearance is a delightful surprise for Theo. He straightens up with a smile.


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    "No, you did not." Theo replies.


    Before an awkward silence can ensue Theo reaches toward Zoe. He gently takes Zoe''s hand, and walks her out of the school. He glances at her from over his shoulder. She''s blushing just as much as him.


    "So is this... your first date?" Zoe asks shyly as they walk.


    Theo slows his speed a little so they can comfortably walk side by side. He nods.


    "Yes. Honestly this is my first time holding a girl''s hand." Theo admits.


    "I-it''s my first time holding a boy''s hand." Zoe replies, blushing.


    Zoe''s smaller hand feels dainty in Theo''s. She rubs her thumb along his hand. He squeezes her hand in reply.


    "It''s a lot nicer than I expected, honestly." She giggles.


    The couple are in the suburbs now. Other students can be seen walking home, too.


    "Honestly I agree... your hands are so soft." Theo says quietly.


    "R-Really? Yours are nice and warm." Zoe replies.


    The two teenagers hold hands like this for the rest of their walk to Theo''s house. They don''t say much else, but they don''t have to. Zoe and Theo know one another quite well.


    "...Is your mom home?" Zoe asks.


    "She won''t be for a while. We... have time." Theo replies suggestively.


    Zoe catches on. For once she picks up the subtle tone of intimacy, and she nearly squeals in excitement. They finally arrive at Theo''s place.


    "We can just hang out and hold hands, if that''s what you want." Theo says suddenly.


    Theo busies himself with unlocking the door. Zoe''s expression shifts from joy to sadness, and then anger. She waits for Theo to open the door, and pushes him inside.


    "Z-Zoe? Did I say something wrong?" Theo stammers.


    Zoe''s small arms can''t push Theo if he resists, but of course he doesn''t. She manages to get him inside before turning him around and pushing him up against the door. There''s a determined look in her doe eyes.


    "Zoe what-" Theo starts.


    Zoe cuts him off with a kiss. Her soft glossy lips come into abrupt contact with his, and his heart skips a beat. Theo can hardly believe it.


    The warmth of Theo''s lips on hers excites Zoe. She lets her softer fuller lips gently embrace his.


    Theo isn''t experienced, but his attempt to return the favor is passable. Theo''s body is growing hot as he enjoys the sensation of Zoe''s soft mouth on his.


    Zoe suddenly loses her balance. She was standing on her tip toes to reach Theo''s mouth.


    "Mwa- Ha-? Ah-!" Zoe yelps.


    Theo catches her. She looks up at him, and he looks down at her. They lock eyes for several long moments. Zoe''s pink lip gloss is visible on Theo''s mouth. He licks his lips.


    "Strawberry?" He asks.


    Zoe nods shyly. He locks the front door without turning around, and takes her hand. Theo wordlessly leads Zoe upstairs. Both of their hearts are beating a mile a minute. They enter Theo''s room.


    "...I think I would like to kiss you again." Theo states plainly.


    "Pfft. Don''t sound so excited about it." Zoe replies sarcastically.


    Theo squints at her as he shuts his bedroom door.


    "Do I not seem excited?" He questions.


    "You don''t sound excited." Zoe retorts.


    Zoe casually steps over to Theo''s bed. Theo locks his bedroom door before approaching her. Their height difference may not be large, but it''s there.


    "I am." Theo mutters.


    "Prove it." Zoe taunts.


    Theo''s advantage in strength proves helpful as he grabs Zoe by her hips and hefts her onto his bed. She yelps in surprise as the normally timid Theo gets on top of her. She''s lying on her back with Theo''s arms on both sides. He doesn''t give her a chance to talk. He presses his lips to hers for the second time.


    Zoe''s heart is pounding as she feels Theo''s legs pressed on the outside of hers. It''s all so warm.


    "Mmh-" Zoe tries to say something.


    Theo gently kisses her lips several more times before pulling his face up and away. He looks at curiously.


    "You were saying?" He asks softly.


    "I... I want to try something." Zoe murmurs.


    Zoe''s small soft hands reach up and grab Theo''s face. She slides her fingers along his cheek before pulling him gently toward her. She removes his glasses.


    "I... can''t see..." Theo says.


    "You don''t need to." Zoe breathes.


    Theo''s eyes widen a little as Zoe pulls his face to hers. Her plump lips lock onto Theo''s. She takes things a step further by gently pushing her tongue against Theo''s lips.


    At first Theo isn''t really sure what to do. He understands how to move his lips, but the tongue is an enigma. Zoe finally gives up on subtlety and presses her tongue into his mouth.


    Theo''s heart pounds even harder in his chest as he feels the soft warmth of Zoe''s tongue rubbing against his own. He reciprocates, and a lewd dance ensues. Zoe passionately slips her arms behind Theo, hugging him close to her body.


    An unknown amount of time passes. Neither Zoe nor Theo can really tell how long they''ve been entangled, but both can feel an ache of tiredness in their lips. They separate. The room is filled with their quiet gasps for air.


    "Ha... Heh... Hehe." Zoe giggles.


    Theo stares down at her beautiful face. He''s never gotten to look at her so closely. The distance is profoundly intimate. He can see every fine detail of her features.


    "You''re unbelievably gorgeous, Zoe." Theo whispers.


    Zoe can''t resist giving him a peck on the lips. Their mouths are too tired to resume their make out session, otherwise they would have immediately done so.


    "You''re pretty hot yourself, Theo." Zoe replies breathily.


    "Not compared to you. You''re way out of my league." Theo replies with a chuckle.


    "Out of your league? I was a boy just last week, you know!" Zoe protests.


    Theo rolls his eyes at that. The two teens gaze at one another. Their mouths may be worn out, but the rest of their bodies aren''t. The heat of the moment urges Theo to act. He gently grabs Zoe''s wrists.


    She watches him with a shy smile. Her cheeks are flushed red, and her breath is still coming out in huffs. Theo guides her small hand below his belt.


    Zoe''s eyes widen as she realizes what he''s doing. She could easily tear her hand away if she wanted to. Theo isn''t being forceful.


    "Are you okay with this?" Theo asks gently.


    "...Of fucking course I am, you dummy." Zoe replies obstinately.


    Theo smirks at her words, and continues. Zoe feels the denim of his jeans beneath her slender fingers, and the warmth of his body.


    Theo releases her wrist. She''s on her own now. Her delicate fingers slip down the denim in an exploratory fashion, and she feels a firm lump in Theo''s jeans. A suggestive smile slips onto her face.


    "I guess this proves your excitement, doesn''t it?" Zoe teases.


    "Y-Yeah I suppose it does." Theo replies nervously.


    The firm warm shape in Theo''s jeans fascinates Zoe. She gently slips her palm lower. Her fingers cup the bulge in Theo''s jeans as she rubs her palm along what she assumes to be the tip of his shaft.


    Theo''s reactions fascinate Zoe. His expression shifts from anxious excitement to pure ecstasy as she moves her hand. She wonders if this is the norm, or if poor Theo is starved for affection. Zoe leans close to Theo''s ear.


    "Does this feel good, Theo?" She whispers.


    The warm breath hitting his ear combined with the gentle pressure being applied to his nethers is enough to drive Theo mad. His eyes flicker from Zoe''s face to her hand as he struggles to reply.


    "Y-Yes..." He manages.


    Zoe stops. Theo looks at her expectantly. She smirks, and carefully begins to unzip his jeans.


    And then they both hear the sound of a car pulling into the garage.

 Family Dinner [23]

    Natasha carefully hefts the groceries from the passenger seat of her car. Her thoughts wander to what she''ll find when she enters the house, and she smirks. She opens the door and steps into the living room. Her ears strain to pick up any sounds.


    "I''m home!" She announces loudly


    The soft thump of footsteps answers her. Natasha sets the groceries down on the dining table. She glances up to see a very flushed Theo standing with his hands in his pockets. The adorable girl standing just behind him looks vaguely familiar. She is just as flustered as Theo is.


    "Hm. Did you use protection?" Natasha asks bluntly.


    "Mom! We didn''t d-do anything!" Theo stammers.


    The girl-who Natasha assumes is Zoe-giggles at his words before gently grabbing him by the hand. Natasha watches curiously as the short dark haired girl whispers something into Theo''s ear. Theo''s face turns even redder upon hearing her words.


    "...Jeez. Correction, we didn''t do- well- that." Theo mumbles shyly.


    "I see. Well I''m about to get dinner started, so you two can go back to ''whatever'' it was you were doing." Natasha says casually.


    Theo blushes profusely at his mother''s phrasing. Zoe perks up upon seeing Natasha preparing various ingredients. She shuffles over to the counter to get a closer look.


    "I don''t want to impose, but may I help?" Zoe requests politely.


    "You aren''t imposing at all, sweetie." Natasha laughs.


    Zoe gives her a relieved smile.


    "Theo, I think this one might be a keeper." Natasha winks at her son.


    "M-Mom it''s just the first date!" Theo whines.


    Natasha and Zoe share a giggle at Theo''s expense. Natasha grabs an array of utensils and dishes from the cabinets. She points to a box sitting on the counter, addressing Zoe.


    "Zoe, could you put the garlic bread in the oven?" Natasha asks.


    "Yes Ma''am!" Zoe replies enthusiastically.


    Zoe quickly starts reading the instructions on the box. Natasha busies herself by filling a pot with water. The pair of them are so engrossed in their activities they don''t notice Theo awkwardly standing in the living room.


    "I-I''ll just watch some TV while you two do that..." Theo announces awkwardly.


    ~


    Theo moves into the living room whilst the girls enjoy themselves in the kitchen. It feels a bit strange to see Zoe so engrossed in cooking, but Theo knows that''s mostly his fault. He turns on the television. It hardly manages to retain his attention.


    This is so boring compared to- well, to her.


    His phone buzzes. He sighs softly, checking the notification. It''s a message in the boy-only group chat.


    Derek: How''s the date, Theodore?


    Theo: Amazing. I don''t know where I would even start


    Jamison: Honestly idk if I want to hear about it


    Derek: Oh loosen up Jamison, it''s not like you won''t have a turn


    Jamison: Now that just sounds wrong. Zoe''s a person, not a toy.


    Derek: Sorry, came out wrong


    Theo: I think I should only share details after making sure its okay with Zoe


    Theo: All I''ll say is her lips are way softer than I expected


    Derek: Damn


    Theo''s thoughts wander back to that kiss. The way he pinned Zoe beneath him was exhilarating, and her equally passionate touch was more than he ever expected. He blushes softly.


    Perhaps I''ve been underestimating her...


    ~


    Zoe carefully removes the garlic bread from the oven using an oven mitt. Theo''s mother glances over to check on how it turned out. She nods in approval.


    "You''d make a wonderful wife, Zoe." She comments.


    For some that might come across as crass and sexist, but Theo''s mother knows what she''s doing. The way Zoe''s cheeks redden is exactly what she expected to happen.


    "Th-Thank you, Mrs. Ericson." Zoe stammers.


    "Just being honest, sweetie." Theo''s mother laughs.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    With dinner ready, the women begin setting the table. Three plates. Three forks. Three glasses of water. Zoe helps carry the food out to the table, too.


    "Dinner''s ready!" Theo''s mother announces.


    Theo hops up from the couch with a spring in his step. He makes his way over to the table. Zoe pulls out his chair for him, and he smiles sheepishly.


    "Thanks, Zoe." Theo says.


    "Of course!" Zoe chirps.


    The two teens sit down next to one another. Theo''s mother sits across from them. She gives them a look as they hold hands beneath the table.


    "So, how was your day, kids?" Theo''s mother asks.


    Theo blushes as he recalls the ups and downs of his day. He was embarrassed repeatedly, yet every moment spent with Zoe made it worth it. He would love to repeat today again if he could.


    "My day was extraordinary." Theo replies happily.


    Zoe glances at Theo shyly. She can''t help but wonder if her presence was the deciding factor. Zoe''s experiences today have been unforgettable. She relates to Theo completely.


    "M-My day was amazing as well!" She replies bashfully.


    Theo''s mother places her arm on the table, resting her chin on her hand.


    "You two are adorable together, you know that?" Theo''s mother comments wistfully.


    Zoe tightens her hands grip on Theo''s hand. The two of them exchange a longing look. Theo''s mother takes a bite of garlic bread. She washes it down with water.


    "You two should probably eat. Love can''t sustain you." Theo''s mother teases.


    "M-Mom!" Theo protests.


    "Inside voices." She replies with mock seriousness.


    Zoe giggles at the way Theo''s mother teases him. It reminds her of her own mother, albeit Mrs. Ericson''s attitude is different.


    Theo takes his mother''s advice on eating. He takes a few bites of spaghetti, and then tries the garlic bread. Zoe and Theo''s Mother watch him eat out of the corner of their eyes. It takes him just a few minutes to clean his plate.


    "How was it?" Zoe asks quietly.


    Rather than giving her a verbal answer, Theo reaches out for seconds. He dishes himself some more spaghetti and another slice of garlic bread. Zoe smiles wide at the implications of his actions.


    "Theo, tell your girlfriend how much you liked it." Theo''s mother encourages.


    Theo swallows a mouthful of spaghetti before turning to address Zoe.


    "It tastes delicious, Zoe." Theo adulates.


    Zoe is beside herself with pride. She wiggles a little in her seat, and takes a bite of her own food. Theo was not embellishing things. It is quite delicious.


    The quiet clink of tableware punctuates the quality of the meal. Zoe revels in the warm and fuzzy atmosphere. Eating with her parents is lovely, but helping cook a meal for your date with his mother is a different flavor of lovely. Theo clears his throat.


    "Thank you for the food. Both of you." Theo says gratefully.


    "Aww. It was no trouble at all, Theodore." Theo''s mother replies.


    "Hm... You owe me for this." Zoe replies sharply.


    Theo''s eyes take on a sad puppy dog look. Zoe is smiling, but she has her face pointed away from him. Zoe exchanges eye contact with Theo''s mother. She smirks.


    "What does he owe you?" Theo''s mother plays along.


    "A kiss, of course." Zoe replies airily.


    Theo''s look of betrayal morphs into one of surprise. Zoe doesn''t give him the chance to speak; She scoots her chair closer to his, and abruptly brings her lips to his. Theo''s mother chuckles at Zoe''s confidence. Theo and Zoe separate after a brief kiss.


    "Y-You''re incorrigible." Theo remarks.


    "Hehe. Perhaps." Zoe giggles.


    The sound of a phone ringing interrupts their conversation. Theo checks his phone, but it''s not ringing. Zoe checks hers, but it''s not either. Theo''s mother finally realizes she''s to blame. She pulls out her phone and answers the call.


    "Oh? Hey Miranda!" Theo''s mother greets.


    Zoe and Theo exchange a look. Miranda is Zoe''s mother''s first name.


    "Yes we just finished a late dinner. I''ll send them over." She promises.


    There''s a brief pause.


    "Mhm. Goodbye!" Theo''s mother finishes.


    She turns to address the teens with a smile. Zoe and Theo both straighten up in their seats, separating their hands.


    "Your mom wanted to check you were okay, and wants you home soon." Theo''s mother explains.


    Zoe pouts, nodding in understanding. Theo and Zoe stand up together. Theo gently puts her hand in his. Zoe turns to smile at Mrs. Ericson.


    "Thank you for having me for dinner, Mrs. Ericson!" Zoe says gratefully.


    "No, thank you for the help!" She replies with a laugh.


    "It was my pleasure!" Zoe replies honestly.


    Theo''s mother stands to join Zoe and Theo. She walks them over to the front door, turning on the porchlight. She turns to address Theo. Her expression grows stern.


    "Theo, can I trust you to get her home safely?" Theo''s mother asks.


    "Of course! I''ll protect her." Theo replies without hesitation.


    "Good. Run along now, lovebirds." Mrs. Ericson dismisses them.


    Theo opens the door for Zoe, and she steps out onto the porch. They''re still holding one another''s hands. Theo guides her toward the sidewalk under his mother''s watchful gaze. She gently shuts the door behind them.


    "Sorry if my mom got a little overbearing." Theo apologizes.


    Zoe quickly shakes her head.


    "Oh no, she was great! I''ve always liked her, but she seems even more awesome now that I''m myself." Zoe replies thoughtfully.


    "I''m glad to hear that, Zoe." Theo replies with a chuckle.


    Innumerable crickets chirp just out of sight. Their performance serves as background music for the young couple as they make their way through the suburbs of Witchburrow. The yellow glow of the streetlights battles with the white light of the starry sky. In a way, it''s beautiful.


    "I wish today could last forever." Theo murmurs.


    "Maybe it can." Zoe replies softly.


    Theo glances at Zoe as they walk ever closer to her home. He isn''t sure how to tell her that he''s not the only one pining for her affection. Maybe it isn''t his place to tell.


    The rest of their walk is spent in silence. The company of the other is felt through the connection their hands form. Neither teen notices the cold autumn wind as they hold onto their counterpart. They finally arrive at Zoe''s house.


    "We''re here." Theo says somberly.


    Zoe nods. Her cozy looking house is just a few steps away now, yet she wants to stay here with Theo for a little while longer. Theo turns to face her as she frowns.


    "I''ll see you tomorrow, silly. It''s not the end of the world." Theo comforts her.


    "I know, but I want to spend more time with you." Zoe replies sadly.


    Theo gently leans down to her level. He carefully grabs her chin. She looks up at him in surprise as he pulls her face closer. They kiss for a final time. The warmth of Theo''s mouth leaves a lasting impression on Zoe as she embraces him. Theo reciprocates her hug as they express themselves through their lips. Neither knows how long the exchange lasts.


    It takes a few tries for Theo to pull himself away from Zoe''s addictive, plush lips. He''s breathing a little heavier than before. Both of their faces are flushed. Zoe smiles up at him.


    "I''ll see you tomorrow, Theo." She parrots his earlier words back to him.


    Theo nods softly. Zoe quickly gives him one last peck on the cheek, and scampers up to her front porch. They make eye contact for a fleeting moment as Zoe opens the door. She steps inside, and Theo is left alone in the night.


    The chilly autumn winds sap the warmth from Theo as he stands there. The buzz of his phone pulls his attention away from the door to Zoe''s house. He pulls it out, and sees a message from Jamison. He opens it.


    Jamison: Did you drop her off?


    Theo: Yeah, but how did you know?


    Jamison: It''s past her curfew.


    Theo: I see


    Jamison: You know what this means, right?


    Theo: Elaborate


    Jamison: It''s my turn to confess.

 Apology Dress [24]

    Zoe''s eyes flutter open to see the sun filtering in through her bedroom window. She yawns softly, and rolls over to face her closet. Memories of her dream return to her in a flurry of images.


    God, that''s embarrassing.


    Images of her and Theo doing things she''s never thought to do before come back from last night''s dream. She blushes, covering her face with a goofy smile. Zoe reaches over and grabs her phone eagerly.


    Sadly there''s not many messages. She checks the one from Theo first.


    Theo: Good morning


    Theo: I hope you had a pleasant sleep, Zoe


    Zoe: I slept really good!! Good morning! <3


    Zoe''s eyes linger on the screen as she waits expectantly for Theo to respond. He doesn''t reply, so she checks the message from Tracy with a pout.


    Tracy: Hey!! Um I was wondering if ur busy today?


    Zoe: I''m free, what''s up? :)


    Tracy: I wanna take you on a little trip to the mall, as an apology


    Zoe: Oh you don''t have to, silly!


    Tracy: But I want to, please? </3


    Zoe: OK fine! XD


    Zoe puts her phone back on her nightstand with a smile. Theo may not be replying at the moment, but Zoe has other friends she can always talk to.


    The smell of something cooking downstairs gets Zoe''s stomach growling as she slips out of bed. She stretches, glancing at her bedhead in the mirror. Zoe grabs the brush her mother got her, and starts to untangle her unruly dark mane.


    Ouch. Being a girl can be so tedious!


    Zoe finishes brushing out her hair. She looks at herself in the mirror, and giggles. Zoe leaves her brush on her nightstand as she leaves her bedroom. The scent of potatoes frying has Zoe salivating as she descends the stairs.


    Zoe''s mother turns to smile at Zoe as she takes her seat at the table. She dishes up a plate of fried potatoes for her daughter.


    "G''morning Mom." Zoe mumbles sleepily.


    "Morning, sleeping beauty." Zoe''s mother replies.


    The crispy golden brown potatoes practically melt in Zoe''s mouth. She moans softly at the delicious buttery taste, and her mother raises an eyebrow. Zoe doesn''t really care how she sounds. These potatoes are delicious!


    "Any plans for today?" Zoe''s mother asks.


    Zoe minds her manners, finishing the food in her mouth before responding.


    "Yeah, actually. Tracy wants to take me shopping today!" Zoe exclaims.


    "Who''s Tracy..?" Zoe''s mother asks with a smile.


    "Oh, I never mentioned her? She''s a friend from school." Zoe replies.


    Zoe takes another big bite of her breakfast. Zoe''s mother purses her lips as she struggles to think of an appropriate way to ask the question she has. Zoe notices her mother''s discomfort, and takes a stab in the dark.


    "She knows about my magic, too." Zoe guesses her mother''s concern.


    "Oh I see. Well, I hope you two girls have a great day." Zoe''s mother comments lightly.


    The soft thump of heavy footsteps descending the stairs draws the two ladies'' attention. Zoe''s father enters the living room with a smile on his face. He gently hugs Zoe. His scratchy unshaved stubble causing her to recoil with a giggle.


    "Dad you''re like sandpaper, jeez." Zoe complains.


    Zoe''s father moves over to his wife and gives her a peck on the lips. She turns to address Zoe with a roll of her eyes.


    "I know, right? You wouldn''t believe how impossible it is to kiss this man." Zoe''s mother sighs.


    "Can''t be that difficult. You do it pretty often, sweetheart." Zoe''s father teases.


    Zoe makes a face at her parents. She gets up to put her dishes in the sink, and pointedly ignores the laughter of her parents. She washes off her plate and returns to the table.


    "You two are sooo gross." Zoe says sarcastically.


    "Really? You and Theo didn''t seem to think kissing was gross." Zoe''s father retorts.


    The implications of her father''s words bring a bright red blush to her face. She didn''t realize either of her parents were observing them when they said their goodbyes last night.


    "T-That is different, Dad!" Zoe whines.


    Zoe''s father chuckles in amusement at his daughter''s bashful reaction. He has to get his kicks somehow, and embarrassing Zoe is one such way. Zoe''s mother rolls her eyes at her husbands behavior, turning to Zoe.


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    "Zoe, honey... Make sure you''re home by ten tonight." She warns.


    "My curfew isn''t nine anymore?!" Zoe exclaims.


    "You''ve been behaving yourself quite well, and haven''t broken any rules... so I don''t see why not." Zoe''s father adds.


    "Thank you, thank you!" Zoe thanks them giddily.


    The middle aged couple watches their daughter scamper upstairs in a hurry to get ready for her outing. They turn to look at one another, and laugh at their daughter''s antics.


    ~


    Tracy pulls out her phone, checking her makeup in the camera. The outfit she chose for today is a little chilly for the season, but she wants to impress Zoe. Her shorts are cut high enough to leave most of her muscular legs visible. The white cropped shirt she''s wearing leaves both her biceps and abs in plain view. The brunette''s hair is tied back into a neat ponytail, leaving her makeup adorned face on display.


    God, I hope she likes this look!


    The soft scrape of Tracy''s sneakers skidding over the sidewalk breaks the silence. She approaches Zoe''s front door, and gives it three good knocks. The door opens as she''s retracting her hand to reveal a hulking man. She takes a step back in surprise.


    "I take it you''re Tracy?" The huge man asks softly.


    Tracy nods hesitantly. The man steps aside and a smiling Zoe practically leaps down the stairs. She steps past the man-who must be her father-and tackles Tracy into a big hug. The taller girl stumbles back a step, nearly falling off the porch.


    "Tracy! Hi!" Zoe chirps.


    Zoe''s adorable face is adorned with a light makeup, yet she looks breathtaking to Tracy. The taller girl gently holds Zoe by placing her toned arm behind Zoe''s back. Zoe''s father smiles at his daughter''s excitement, and waves.


    "You two have fun." He says.


    "We will! Bye Dad!" Zoe replies.


    Tracy watches Zoe''s father shut the door. She can feel her face heating up as Zoe clings to her toned tummy. Zoe tilts her head curiously at Tracy, and realizes her breasts are pressed against Tracy''s abdomen.


    "Oh... Oh!" Zoe exclaims, realizing many things all at once.


    "W-We should get going." Tracy suggests awkwardly.


    "Sure." Zoe replies with a smirk.


    Zoe separates from Tracy, and the two girls start walking toward uptown. Tracy tries not to think about how soft Zoe''s hands were as they slipped along her bare skin. She fails miserably.


    "So, you''re into girls?" Zoe says suddenly.


    Tracy''s breath hitches as she looks at Zoe with wide eyes. Last time they interacted Zoe hadn''t been able to spot Tracy''s obvious attraction, nor did she seem to consider Tracy a potential partner. Something''s obviously changed.


    "A-Ah... yeah." Tracy replies nervously.


    Zoe wears a catty smile as she gently bumps her hip into Tracy. Her eyes flicker from Tracy''s muscular legs to her toned abs.


    "Well I might be into them, too." Zoe says nonchalantly.


    "Really?!" Tracy exclaims, her enthusiasm showing.


    Tracy''s face flushes a dark shade of red as she realizes how obvious she''s being. She turns away from Zoe to mitigate her embarrassment, and Zoe giggles. Their conversation peters out as Zoe looks at her feet. She sighs.


    "Honestly I might not be, um... on the market, anymore?" Zoe says with uncertainty.


    Those words sting, but Tracy doesn''t hold it against Zoe. She turns to look at Zoe. She''s frowning.


    "What''s wrong..?" Tracy asks gently.


    "It''s just, I feel bad for not noticing your feelings earlier..." Zoe mumbles.


    "Nah, don''t be. It''s my fault. I should have just said it." Tracy replies calmly.


    They keep walking. The suburban homes are gradually replaced by commercial buildings. Several multi story buildings populate uptown. Zoe glances up at a particular office building, and wonders which building her mother works in.


    "So, who''s the lucky one?" Tracy asks suddenly.


    Zoe turns to look at Tracy. The taller girl has a bitter smile on her face, and her eyes are staring straight ahead. Zoe winces at the girl''s obvious pain.


    "I-I uh... I went on a date with Theo." Zoe replies quietly.


    "What?! The one with glasses?" Tracy exclaims in shock.


    This puts a pout on Zoe''s adorable face, and Tracy quickly puts her hands up.


    "Sorry! I was just surprised, is all." Tracy says apologetically.


    "Well don''t be. He''s a very good kisser." Zoe retorts.


    The awkward silence that ensues lasts until they arrive at the mall. Tracy doesn''t say anything, but she politely opens the door for Zoe. The tinny speakers play that familiar jazz music they always play here. The burbling fountain adds an air of refinement to the space. The two girls wander past the fountain.


    "Have you ever worn a dress, Zoe?" Tracy asks softly.


    Zoe turns to follow Tracy''s gaze. She sees a rather pretty black dress adorning a mannequin inside a vaguely familiar department store.


    "No... Aren''t they expensive?" Zoe replies.


    Tracy gently takes Zoe''s hand, and leads her into the store.


    "Could my friend try on that dress?" Tracy asks an employee.


    "Of course." The employee replies.


    Zoe shifts her weight from foot to foot as she anxiously watches the employee take the dress off the mannequin. Tracy gently squeezes her hand. The employee guides the two girls over to the changing rooms, and hands the dress off to Zoe.


    The quiet of the changing room eases Zoe''s nerves somewhat. She glances at her cute self in the mirror for a moment, and her confidence returns.


    ~


    Tracy gently chews her fingernail as she waits for Zoe to finish changing into the dress. Her thoughts wander back to their earlier conversation, and the revelation regarding Theo.


    He really beat me to the punch.


    The soft click of the changing room door opening draws both Tracy and the employee''s attention. They turn to observe Zoe, and audibly gasp. Zoe''s build is a perfect fit for the dress. The fabric comes up to cup her breasts comfortably. It leaves her shoulders and cleavage visible. The wavy bottom half of the dress comes close to Zoe''s knees, offering a peek at her thighs. Tracy''s face flushes.


    "How do I look?" Zoe asks.


    "Adorable!" The employee exclaims.


    Tracy nods softly as she stares down at Zoe. Zoe can feel a blush of her own creeping into her complexion as Tracy practically eye fucks her. Tracy shakes her head softly, resisting the urge to ogle her friend further.


    "S-Sorry, uh... you look gorgeous, Zoe." Tracy compliments.


    "Thanks! It''s pretty comfortable, too." Zoe laughs.


    The employee''s eyes flit between the two girls before resting on Tracy. She leans over and whispers to Tracy discreetly. Tracy''s eyes widen a little, but she nods immediately. Tracy pulls out her card and hands it to the employee as they begin walking to the register.


    "What was that about?" Zoe questions.


    "Oh, she was just telling me the price." Tracy replies.


    Zoe follows, still wearing the dress. Her other clothes are bundled up in her hands. The employee gives her a bag to stuff her clothes into.


    "How much was it..?" Zoe asks.


    Tracy flinches at the question. She could tell Zoe, but the cutie might just have a fit over how expensive it is.


    "That''s a secret." Tracy replies seriously.


    Zoe rolls her eyes at her friend, but doesn''t pressure her into saying. The two of them leave the department store with their moods uplifted. Tracy glances over at a restaurant situated across the hall from the department store.


    "Wanna grab a bite to eat?" Tracy offers.


    "I don''t want to take advantage of you, dummy. I''m broke." Zoe shrugs.


    "Friends can buy friends food, can''t they?" Tracy argues.


    "Yeah, but you already bought me this amazing dress!" Zoe huffs.


    "That doesn''t count. That''s an apology dress." Tracy refutes.


    "An apology dress?" Zoe repeats sarcastically.


    Tracy nods at her with a cheeky smile. Zoe squints up at the athletic girl, and catches Tracy''s gaze flickering down from Zoe''s face. Zoe smirks.


    "You sure you didn''t have any ulterior motives when you bought me this?" Zoe questions.


    The blush coloring Tracy''s face says it all.


    "I-I don''t know what you''re referring to." Tracy deflects.


    "Hm, sure. Let''s go to that restaurant." Zoe replies.


    Zoe boldly grabs Tracy''s muscular arm. She clutches Tracy''s arm close to her chest. Tracy makes a flustered whimpering sound as Zoe pins her arm against her soft breasts.


    I don''t know if I prefer innocent Zoe or this...

 Exclusivity [25]

    The salty smell of pretzels fills the restaurant where Zoe and Tracy sit. Zoe takes a big bite of the large soft pretzel Tracy bought her. The warm doughy thing has an impeccable texture, and an even better taste. Tracy is watching Zoe eat, her chin resting on her hand.


    "You''re always so gosh darn cute when you eat, Zoe." Tracy sighs.


    Zoe blushes ever so slightly as she chews her pretzel. The dark haired girl takes a drink of her lemonade before replying to Zoe''s words.


    "Thank you, but I don''t think Theo would like you flirting... or me... flirting back... I dunno." Zoe rambles anxiously.


    Tracy narrows her eyes as she listens to Zoe. Something about the way Zoe is treating this feels off. It is almost as if Zoe never verbally promised anything to Theo.


    Wait. Maybe that''s exactly what''s going on?


    "Zoe, could you call Theo real quick?" Tracy asks.


    Zoe glances up from her pretzel to give Tracy a quizzical look. She finishes another bite of her food before voicing her concerns.


    "Um, I guess I can, but Theo hates using the phone... Why do I need to call him?" Zoe asks.


    "I want to ask him a question." Tracy offers unhelpfully.


    Zoe sighs softly, and pulls out her phone. She dials Theo''s number and hands her phone over to Tracy. Zoe watches curiously as Tracy waits for Theo to pick up. It takes a few rings, but he does.


    "Hello?" Theo greets.


    "Hey, this is Tracy!" Tracy replies.


    There''s a brief pause as Theo processes the implications of her using Zoe''s phone.


    "...Why are you calling me using Zoe''s phone?" Theo asks, understandably confused.


    "Well I was on a little shopping trip with her at the mall and I wanted to discuss some things with you... About Zoe and you." Tracy says ominously.


    "I don''t see why our relationship is any of your concern, Tracy." Theo replies coldly.


    Tracy takes a deep breath, sighing softly.


    "It''s my concern because I want to take a bite of this adorable girl, but she seems to think she owes you her heart now that you''ve gone on a date." Tracy says in a husky tone, betraying her desire.


    Theo takes a few moments to collect his thoughts before responding.


    "Truthfully I do not require her exclusivity as of now... it is still too early for such constraints." Theo says hesitantly.


    Tracy quirks her brow and frowns. She replies, her voice laced with venom.


    "Are you saying that because you have other girls you want to see, Theodore?" Tracy asks coldly.


    "No. I will only be seeing Zoe for the foreseeable future." Theo refutes immediately.


    "Then why?" Tracy asks, exasperated.


    Theo pauses as he contemplates how to go about this. He deigns to explain the circumstances of the agreement he made with Derek and Jamison.


    "...I have promised Derek and Jamison that I would allow them to also confess their feelings to Zoe, in due time." Theo explains in a hushed tone.


    Tracy''s eyebrows go up as she realizes just how complicated Zoe''s love life is going to get. She purses her lips in thought, and then looks at Zoe. Zoe''s adorable self is looking at her with a pretzel stuffed in her face. From the girl''s soft pinchable cheeks to her ample bust, she is downright gorgeous in Tracy''s eyes. It''s no wonder all three boys are pining for her.


    "...I understand. Mind if I join the fray?" Tracy asks cheekily.


    "I-I don''t... I can''t really stop you from doing so, Tracy." Theo grumbles.


    "True. Tell you what, I won''t steal her away for myself if you tell her she can go on dates with me too. Deal?" Tracy offers slyly.


    Theo processes her offer briefly before agreeing. He doesn''t have much room to argue.


    "You have a deal, Tracy." Theo replies.


    Tracy smiles and passes the phone over to Zoe. Zoe is looking at her curiously, as the conversation sounded bizarre from Zoe''s perspective.


    "Hello?" Zoe greets.


    "Hi, Zoe. I wanted to make two things clear." Theo starts.


    "Uhuh?" Zoe nods.


    "First off, I will not be interacting romantically with anyone besides you, Zoe." Theo says seriously.


    Zoe''s cheeks flush slightly at his words, and bites her lip. Theo continues.


    "Second off, I am giving you some time to... date freely. I do not want you to rush into things with me and limit yourself, so you can feel free to date others with my blessing." Theo finishes.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    "Wait, really? Isn''t that like... what''s it called... a cu-" Zoe replies with uncertainty


    "Zoe, I am not a cuck." Theo cuts her off.


    "Jeez, okay!" Zoe giggles.


    Tracy smiles as she watches Zoe. The adorable way she laughs is one of Tracy''s favorite things about the dark haired girl.


    "Now go enjoy your date." Theo urges.


    "You''re sure it''s okay?" Zoe replies hesitantly.


    Theo pauses. It''s clear he has some misgivings, but he''s given Tracy and his friends his word.


    "Yes. Goodbye, Zoe." Theo says softly.


    "Bye bye!" Zoe chirps.


    Theo ends the call, leaving Zoe with Tracy at the mall. Zoe glances up at Tracy to see her staring at her like a carnivore does its prey. Zoe''s face gradually reddens as Tracy smiles at her. The athletic girl glances down at Zoe''s unfinished pretzel.


    "Eat your food, Bunny." Tracy urges.


    Zoe blushes a deeper shade of red at the unfamiliar nickname. Tracy grins at this reaction. Zoe obediently picks up her pretzel, and munches on it nervously. It only takes her a minute or so to finish her food. Tracy smiles wide, standing up and approaching Zoe.


    "Up." Tracy says sternly.


    Tracy''s commanding tone isn''t too forceful, yet Zoe finds herself quickly standing to fulfill Tracy''s order. The way her body jiggles ever so slightly at the sudden upward motion puts a warm fuzzy feeling in her tummy. Tracy takes Zoe''s hand and leads her out of the restaurant with casual strides.


    What even is happening right now?!


    Zoe''s boots make a soft ''tak tak'' sound as she follows Tracy closely. Zoe marvels at how different Tracy''s hand is from Theo''s: Tracy''s fingers are slender and delicate. Zoe can''t stop smiling as Tracy leads her out of the mall.


    Tracy doesn''t bother glancing back at Zoe to confirm the girl''s feelings. She can feel Zoe''s excitement in the way her little hand grips onto her. After some time, Zoe''s eyes are trained on Tracy''s butt. The way it moves in her shorts and flexes is downright hypnotic. This is when Tracy glances over her shoulder.


    "Like what you see, Bunny?" Tracy suddenly taunts.


    Zoe''s eyes snap up to see Tracy looking at her over her shoulder. Zoe''s face goes beet red as she quickly covers her eyes with her free hand. Her voice comes out stuttering.


    "I-I was just impressed! You''re very... toned." Zoe whines.


    "Haha... It takes a lot of work. I''m glad you appreciate it~" Tracy winks.


    The blush burning up on Zoe''s face is almost as hot as the feeling burning between her legs. Tracy pulls her along toward her place. The walk feels like it takes hours, but it''s really just a few minutes. Zoe glances at the familiar flower garden as Tracy unlocks the door.


    "Mom, I''m gonna be up in my room!" Tracy shouts as she enters.


    Tracy''s mother is nowhere to be seen, but a voice not too dissimilar from hers can be heard from another room.


    "Mkay!" Tracy''s mother acknowledges.


    Zoe is quiet as a mouse as she follows Tracy upstairs. The pictures on the walls catch Zoe''s attention, and she realizes that Matthew is the boy in some of them. Realization dawns on her as she recalls Matthew''s resemblance to Tracy.


    Huh. So he''s Tracy''s brother?


    Tracy pulls Zoe out of her reverie by literally pulling her into her bedroom. Zoe yelps as she''s pressed close against Tracy''s firm abdomen and soft chest. Tracy shuts the door, locking it with reddened cheeks.


    "You''ve no idea how badly I''ve wanted to do this..." Tracy whispers huskily into Zoe''s ear.


    Zoe''s face is already flushed as she feels Tracy''s slender fingers trace her chin. Tracy lifts her face, making eye contact. Zoe purses her lips for a moment before pouting at Tracy.


    "Wanted to do what, exactly?" Zoe whispers.


    "This." Tracy replies.


    Tracy''s hand gently pulls Zoe''s face to her own, and their lips meet in the middle. Zoe''s plush lips elicit a moan from Tracy as she kisses the shorter girl. Zoe''s heartbeat quickens as she feels Tracy''s smooth lips embracing hers tenderly. Zoe can hardly believe how different kissing a girl feels.


    She''s so soft!


    Zoe''s eyes flutter open slightly as Tracy pulls away. Tracy flashes a cocky grin as she grabs Zoe by the hips, and lifts her like she weighs nothing. Zoe''s eyes widen in surprise as Tracy carries her over to her bed without breaking a sweat.


    "W-Warn me next time you do that!" Zoe squeaks.


    "Do I have to? It''s easy to carry around a little bunny, you know?" Tracy replies coyly.


    Tracy doesn''t give Zoe a chance to protest as she pins Zoe beneath her. Tracy''s hand grips Zoe''s head firmly as she kisses her aggressively. Zoe''s heart pounds and her body warms as she feels Tracy''s primal urges taking over. The way Tracy sucks in Zoe''s bottom lip only to gently nibble at it sends tingles up Zoe''s spine. It feels like Tracy is a hungry beast, and Zoe a helpless rabbit.


    "Mmh- Mwah- Ah-" Zoe whimpers.


    "Shhh, Bunny. You don''t want anyone to hear, do you?" Tracy teases quietly.


    Zoe shakes her head emphatically as Tracy sits up to look down at her. Tracy grips the hem of her own top, and pulls it off over her head. Zoe''s eyes widen a little as she takes in the sight of Tracy''s almost completely bare upper body. Her toned arms look well defined, yet slender enough to give off a feminine aura. The round shape of Tracy''s breasts in her bra is accompanied by her stiffened nipples poking into the fabric. Zoe is practically beside herself with desire as she ogles Tracy''s toned tummy, wherein a firm set of abs glistens with a thin sheen of sweat.


    "You''re so fucking hot, Tracy..." Zoe breaths lustily.


    Tracy responds by leaning down and gently playing with the strap of Zoe''s dress. She playfully tugs on the strap as if hinting at her desire to strip Zoe bare. Zoe blushes deeply, biting her lip. No words are exchanged as Zoe carefully uses her small delicate hands to push her dress'' straps down. The fabric slides down toward her tummy. Tracy sucks in a breath.


    "You''re a goddess, Zoe." Tracy whispers.


    Zoe''s previously modest cleavage is now a veritable ocean of sex appeal, or at least that''s how Tracy sees it. The deep valley of pale flesh draws Tracy''s green eyes like a magnet. Tracy carefully reaches out her hand, and cups Zoe''s breast.


    She''s grabbing them... Oh my gosh...


    This is really happening!


    Tracy''s slender fingers spread out over Zoe''s ample breast. She brings her other hand to Zoe''s other breast, and begins to squeeze. The sensation of Tracy''s slender fingers sinking into her pliable bosom is more intimate than anything Zoe''s experienced. She can feel her nipples swelling with arousal as Tracy rubs her thumb across some of Zoe''s exposed cleavage. Tracy''s face is a mixture of fascination and arousal as she fondles Zoe.


    "I... Hah. I can''t help myself, Bunny..." Tracy murmurs in a low, sultry tone.


    Zoe''s chest rises and falls as she pants. The heat of the moment pushes Tracy''s urges over the edge, and she casts reason aside. Zoe watches in fascination as Tracy lowers her head toward Zoe''s cleavage. Tracy''s green eyes stare up into Zoe''s dark ones as she gently plants a warm kiss upon Zoe''s exposed flesh.


    The sensation isn''t immensely arousing, but the act and context of it more than make up for that. Zoe gasps as Tracy gently slides her tongue along the curve of Zoe''s ample breast. The sensation of Tracy''s warm tongue getting closer and closer to where her nipple is hidden drives Zoe crazy with anticipation.


    Knock knock knock.


    "Tracy! I know you''re probably busy, but I need your help getting the old desk out of the attic... It''s going to kill me if I try to do it alone, haha." Tracy''s mother says through the locked door.


    "Fuck... Okay, Mom! I''ll be right out!" Tracy curses under her breath before calling out.


    Zoe''s eyes roll as she lets out a quiet groan of annoyance. She pulls her dress back up whilst Tracy throws back on her top.


    I swear this always happens when things are about to get good...

 New Developments [26]

    The quiet of the waiting room does little to calm Zoe as she wiggles in her seat. The girl kicks her legs only to feel her shoes hit the floor, and sighs. The walls here are decorated with a variety of posters discussing sexual health and gender expression.


    "Wiggling won''t make the clock move quicker, Zoe." Zoe''s mother comments.


    "I-I know that." Zoe murmurs.


    Zoe is waiting with her mother for her first appointment. Technically Zoe could just come here alone, but the walk here would have been hours long. Zoe''s mother was thankfully willing to give her a ride. The door to the back of the clinic opens, and a woman wearing baby blue scrubs pokes her head out.


    "Zoe?" The lady calls out.


    "That''s me!" Zoe replies as she stands.


    The woman gives Zoe a kind smile and pushes the door open for her. Zoe walks over and follows her into the corridor. She gives her mom a little wave as she leaves the waiting room behind.


    "We''re gonna head over through here, and get your height and weight." She explains.


    "Okay!" Zoe chirps.


    Zoe steps onto the scale and watches it measure her weight. She frowns slightly as it settles at one hundred and twenty pounds. Zoe would prefer to weigh a little more. The woman writes down Zoe''s weight, and asks her to step over to the measuring device against the wall.


    Zoe glances at the measurements on the wall as she takes off her shoes, and stands in place. The lady helping her adjusts a metal indicator, and writes her height down.


    "You''re five feet and eight inches tall, give or take." She tells Zoe.


    "Dang. That''s so tall..." Zoe sighs.


    The lady laughs as she turns to guide Zoe to a different room.


    "Oh, don''t be so hard on yourself. I''ve met girls over six feet tall." She remarks lightly.


    "Really?" Zoe''s eyebrows go up a little.


    The woman nods as she leads Zoe into a room with a medical bed and some chairs. There''s a counter with a sink against one wall. Posters depicting human anatomy adorn the walls. Zoe is surprised by how similar it resembles an ordinary doctor''s office.


    "Dr. Green will be here in a few minutes." The lady informs Zoe.


    "Okay, Thank you!" Zoe replies with a smile.


    Zoe watches the woman shut the door on her way out. Zoe gets comfortable in one of the cushy chairs pushed up against the wall, and takes out her phone. There''s a few messages in the group chat for her to read. She opens them.


    Jamison: Hey Zoe, are you busy today..?


    Derek: bro is wasting no time lol


    Zoe: I am, actually!


    Zoe: I''m seeing a doctor about HRT :)


    Derek: Is that like IBS? lmao


    Theo: No, Derek. HRT is hormone replacement therapy.


    Derek: What''s that


    Zoe: It means I''ll take medication to turn me into a girl in my original body!


    Derek: You''re bullshitting me, right?


    Zoe: No! pfft.


    The sound of the door handle turning catches Zoe''s attention. She quickly slips her phone into her pocket as an older lady in a lab coat enters. The lady smiles at Zoe. She grabs a rolling chair with a desk attached and places her laptop upon it.


    "So, your name is Zoe?" She inquires.


    "Yup!" Zoe replies.


    "Great. My name is Dr. Green, and I''ll be your endocrinologist." Dr. Green introduces herself.


    Dr. Green clicks a few things on her laptop, and flips through a pamphlet briefly. She turns to Zoe with the pamphlet in one hand.


    "So, I have to ask this just to be sure. Do you want feminizing hormone therapy?" Dr. Green asks.


    "Yes! I want to look more like a girl." Zoe replies with a determined expression.


    "Great! First I need you to read through this. Read all of it, and sign the pages you''ve read." Dr. Green instructs.


    Zoe nods softly as she takes the pamphlet. The first page has the words "Effects of Estrogen" at the top, and lists off a bunch of various side effects of undergoing feminizing HRT. Zoe''s eyes widen a little at the promise of breast development, skin softening, and decreased muscle mass. Zoe turns the page. She realizes this pamphlet is quite thick.


    "I really have to read all of this..?" Zoe murmurs.


    "Yes, really. We don''t want anyone undergoing treatment without understanding the risks involved." Dr. Green answers her seriously.


    Dr. Green''s words make sense to Zoe, so she continues without complaint. Dr. Green patiently waits for her to finish digesting the material. It takes several minutes for Zoe to finish reading the whole thing.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "I''m done!" Zoe announces.


    Dr. Green takes the pamphlet and checks that she''s signed the papers before handing Zoe a second copy. She files away the signed one before turning back to Zoe.


    "That ones for you, keep it and refer to it in case you''re unsure of something." Dr. Green explains.


    Zoe nods and holds her pamphlet on her lap. Dr. Green types out something on her laptop before continuing.


    "So, I  want to hear about your experiences. How did you find out you were trans? That sort of thing." Dr. Green asks softly.


    The events leading up this appointment flash through Zoe''s mind like a slideshow. She purses her lips, and relaxes her shoulders. Zoe decides to start from the very beginning.


    "It started on a Wednesday night. It was chilly, and my three friends were with me..." Zoe begins.


    ~


    The rattle of pills in the bottle brings a smile to Zoe''s face. She peers through the orange tinted plastic to look at the little blue pills. Her mother watches her with an amused smile. Zoe unscrews the bottle, but her mother gently stops her.


    "Not yet. She recommended you take the spiro first, Zoe." Zoe''s mother reminds her.


    Zoe nods sheepishly as she grabs the bottle of spironolactone and unscrews its cap. The little tablets are an off-white hue, and they smell strange. She carefully places the little pill atop her tongue, and washes it down with a big gulp of water.


    After drinking the rest of her glass of water, Zoe turns back to the bottle of estradiol. The medicinal scent of the little blue pills is surprisingly strong. Zoe recalls the instructions given to her by Dr. Green. She places the oval shaped pill beneath her tongue.


    "How is it?" Zoe''s mother inquires.


    Zoe furrows her brow as she squishes the softening pill with the underside of her tongue. The pill is starting to break apart into a thick clumpy powder. Zoe works the powder into the bottom of her mouth with her tongue.


    "It feels strange, but not bad." Zoe murmurs.


    It takes a little while for Zoe to get the entire pill broken apart. The powder is a stubborn thing, and takes what feels like hours to be absorbed into her mouth. Zoe sighs when it''s finally over with. Zoe''s mother chuckles.


    "You can do something to entertain yourself next time, honey." Zoe''s mother suggests.


    Zoe pouts a little at her mother''s words.


    "I''m not a kid, Mom. I can handle waiting!" Zoe argues.


    "Really now? To me it looked like you would die from anticipation." Zoe''s mother laughs.


    Zoe smirks a little as she looks away from her mother. The thought of her masculine body becoming feminine has her practically vibrating with excitement.


    "I''m just so ready to grow real boobs!" Zoe exclaims a little too loudly.


    The blush that colors Zoe''s face elicits a lighthearted chuckle from her mother. The older woman glances down at her own ample bust before sighing.


    "Well, if you have my genetics then you''ll get more than you bargained for, Zoe." Zoe''s mother warns.


    "Oh my god, Mom!" Zoe groans.


    ~


    The gentle warmth of sunlight wakes Zoe from her peaceful slumber. She yawns, and stretches her arms over her head. Her eyes flit over to her phone. She sees it''s not quite time to get out of bed. She rolls over to enjoy a brief respite.


    Zoe feels an eerily familiar aching sensation as her chest squishes her mattress.


    Zoe sits up frantically and stares down at the familiar sight of two newly budding breasts. It feels like deja vu. Thursday morning went exactly like this, but now it''s happening again? Zoe quickly glances at herself in the mirror. That is definitely her boy body, but it''s growing boobs.


    "Make me a girl!"


    The pop of magic reverses something in Zoe, and she feels her body shrink down. The sight of her small nude body puts a blush on her face. She quickly does a spin to ensure nothing has changed, and opens her mouth again.


    "Make me a boy!"


    Once again a pop, and Zoe fells her body change. She''s back to how she was moments earlier. Her height isn''t modified like it was during her first transformation, yet she''s growing breasts. Zoe grabs the pamphlet off her nightstand, rifling through it.


    It clearly says this should process takes months to begin...


    Is the Witch''s Ichor speeding it up?


    Knock knock knock.


    Zoe whips her head over to look at her bedroom door. Her mother doesn''t burst in like she expects. After a brief pause, Zoe''s mother speaks. Her voice is muffled by the door.


    "You awake, honey? Breakfast is ready." Zoe''s mother says.


    "I''m awake! I''ll be right down!" Zoe shouts.


    The strangeness of Zoe''s situation is pushed to the wayside as she quickly gets dressed in gender neutral clothing. It feels a little less distinctly boyish, and more like Zoe. Zoe opens her door and hurries downstairs.


    Pancakes greet Zoe when she takes a seat at the dining table. She takes up her fork and knife, cutting them into little pieces. Zoe''s mother hurriedly grabs her keys and walks toward the door. She turns to say goodbye to Zoe.


    "I''ll see you after work, Zoe! Love you!" She calls out.


    "Love you too, Mom!" Zoe replies with a laugh.


    Sugary caramel colored syrup pours down over Zoe''s pancakes. She eats her pancakes like a vacuum cleaning up dirt. It takes her less than a minute to finish the three pancakes on her plate. She feels her stomach gurgle as if unsatisfied.


    What in the world is up with me today?


    Zoe grabs another four pancakes and cuts them apart. The buzz of her phone draws her attention, so she skips the syrup and starts eating with one hand. Her free hand picks up her phone. She checks her messages.


    Jamison: Hey Zoe, I was wondering if we could talk about something before school?


    Zoe: Sure? What''s up?


    Jamison: I think it''s best if I tell you in person.


    Zoe: Oh okay! Want me to walk toward ur place?


    Jamison: No, I''m already near yours.


    Jamison: Just come outside when you''re ready.


    The last of the pancakes disappear into Zoe''s stomach as she blinks in surprise. She glances up toward the front door, and then back down at her phone. She shakes her head in exasperation, taking her dirty dishes to the sink.


    It only takes a minute or so for Zoe to clean up her dirty dishes. She quickly slings her backpack over her shoulder, and walks outside. Jamison is waiting for her. He''s leaning against the tree in her front yard. He notices her and smiles, waving casually.


    "Fancy seeing you here... Come here often?" Zoe jokes sarcastically.


    Jamison''s cheeks redden slightly as Zoe approaches him. He nervously clears his throat.


    "S-Sorry for coming here like this... I just need to get something off my chest." Jamison apologizes.


    Zoe smiles one of her heart stopping smiles, and Jamison finds it hard to grasp what he wants to say. The way her brown eyes look up at him is no less adorable now that Zoe is in her original body. She''s still the same girl he''s come to know.


    "It''s fine, dummy. Just tell me what it is?" Zoe replies with a giggle.


    Jamison straightens his posture as he goes over what he wants to say in his head. He spent hours practicing what to say to Zoe in the mirror, yet he finds himself struggling to put his feelings into words. He swallows the lump in his throat.


    "I have feelings for you, Zoe." Jamison finally confesses.


    Zoe arches her brow as if curious about his meaning. He hurriedly continues.


    "I-I''ve always been fond of you, but lately I... want to be more than friends." Jamison stammers.


    "Really? Is it just my body, then?" Zoe questions with a pointed look.


    Jamison blanks for a moment as he processes Zoe''s words. He quickly puts his hands up and shakes his head as if appalled by the idea. His cheeks turn red as images of Zoe''s exposed body in vulnerable positions come to mind. He quickly suppresses those thoughts.


    "No! Not at all! I just felt... different about you. Seeing you come out of your shell and open up like this has been eye opening. You''re not hurting anymore, and you''re being yourself! You''re a lovely girl who''s pleasant to be around! You''re... You''re Zoe." Jamison pours his heart out, tearing up slightly as he runs out of steam.


    Zoe is looking up at him with an unreadable expression. Jamison starts to panic.


    "S-Sorry-" Jamison tries to apologize.


    Zoe cuts him off with a sudden hug. She wraps her arms around him and buries her face in his shoulder. Jamison''s larger arms mirror hers as he hugs her back. The two of them stay like this as Zoe cries softly into Jamison''s shoulder.

 Handling Mistakes [27]

    Zoe finally pulls her face from Jamison''s shoulder. Jamison looks her up and down with concern clouding his eyes. Zoe smiles as Jamison wipes away her tears.


    "You always were the nice one, you know?" Zoe laughs.


    "The nice one? I certainly haven''t been nice lately..." Jamison replies dryly.


    Zoe starts walking toward the school. Jamison wordlessly follows Zoe. She glances up at him with a pout, tilting her head like a curious puppy.


    "How so?" Zoe asks softly.


    The two teens walk along the sidewalk without speaking for a few minutes. Jamison''s eyes stare straight ahead as he struggles to formulate a good response. Their shoes skid off the sidewalk softly as they near the school''s courtyard.


    "I feel like I''ve let my desire for you cloud my judgement. I''ve let it take priority over your wellbeing, and the wellbeing of our friend group." Jamison replies bitterly.


    "Oh... Well, I''m sure you didn''t mean to?" Zoe says with uncertainty lacing her voice.


    Jamison smiles a little at Zoe''s attempt to comfort him. He gently ruffles her short hair as they enter the school courtyard. There aren''t any students outside. Jamison and Zoe start speedwalking once they realize they''re behind schedule.


    ~


    Zoe squints at her reflection. She''s using her phone''s screen as a mirror to check her face. The pamphlet describing the effects of estrogen mentioned feminization of the facial features, but that is supposed to happen over the course of years. Zoe can already see the softening of her bones and skin.


    "Watcha looking at?" Tracy asks.


    Zoe glances up from her phone to smile bashfully at Tracy. They''re in 4th period. Mrs. Johnson has given them some free time to themselves.


    Tracy''s wearing a fairly modest top, yet the toned muscle of her biceps still catches Zoe''s attention. She shakes her head to expel the lewd thoughts.


    "Just looking at my face." Zoe replies sheepishly.


    "Oh? It''s a pretty cute face. I get why you''d wanna stare at it." Tracy replies flirtatiously.


    Tracy''s cheeky smile almost melts Zoe into a puddle of embarrassment. She holds herself together, and sticks her tongue out at Tracy.


    Zoe gently pokes her own cheek. The flesh is softer. Her cheeks are a little rounder.


    "I just started HRT, and it''s already having a visible effect. Isn''t that weird?" Zoe murmurs.


    Zoe feels Tracy''s slender hand gently touch her face. She looks over to see Tracy scrutinizing her. The way Tracy''s thumb slips across Zoe''s cheek flusters her. She gently plucks Tracy''s hand off, pouting with frustration.


    "That''s super embarrassing!" Zoe hisses quietly.


    "What? I think most people would envy you for that." Tracy replies casually.


    "For getting my face touched by you?" Zoe questions


    Tracy nods with a smug smile. Zoe rolls her eyes at the girl''s confidence.


    Tracy clears her throat to get Zoe''s attention. Zoe glances over to see Tracy looking at her with an embarrassed smile. Her false bravado is nowhere to be found.


    "Sorry, I''ll be serious now. I do think it''s a little strange, but you do have magic?" Tracy says with a shrug.


    "I guess. I''m not sure if this is the ''Witch''s Ichor'' or if it''s something else?" Zoe ponders out loud.


    "What''s ''Witch''s Ichor'' exactly?" Tracy questions.


    Zoe glances over at her friend. She frowns in confusion.


    "Did I not mention the potion was labeled that?" Zoe asks.


    Tracy shakes her head emphatically. Zoe purses her lips and thinks back to her most recent encounter with Esmarelda. The shop was empty that time, and Esmarelda warned her that she should cherish her ''ichor.''


    She definitely meant the ''Witch''s Ichor'' I drank.


    Esmarelda''s magic also helped switch Zoe from a girl into a boy, but how? Obviously it had something to do with her weird way of speaking. Luckily, Zoe stumbled into using her own words to activate magical transformations.


    Did the ichor make that possible, or did the witch enable that with our second encounter?


    Zoe sighs softly as she wracks her brain for an answer. All of this magical nonsense makes no sense to her. The sound of the bell ringing rouses Zoe from her seat.


    "Mind if I sit with you and the boys today?" Tracy asks hopefully.


    "Of course you can! You''ve already been forgiven, remember?" Zoe replies with a smile.


    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    "By you, but not by them!" Tracy points out.


    Oh shoot. I hadn''t thought of that.


    Tracy and Zoe make their way out of the classroom alongside a horde of their peers. The two of them manage to weave their way through the crowd toward the cafeteria. The smell of subpar pizza and soggy green beans greets them.


    "Maybe you could apologize to them today?" Zoe offers.


    The two girls take their place at the back of the lunch line. The din of teenagers chattering away with one another is hard to hear over, but they manage.


    "I can try! I hope they''re not too pissed with me?" Tracy laughs awkwardly.


    Zoe and Tracy move forward with the line. The two of them get their lunch trays. The smell of pizza is strongest here. Zoe swears she can smell the difference between the good variety and bad variety. Sadly, today smells like bad pizza.


    Tracy follows Zoe cautiously out of the lunch line. The two of them approach their usual table. The three boys are already seated with their food. Jamison and Theo are arguing about something. Tracy clears her throat loudly to get their attention.


    "Oh, great. She''s back." Derek gripes.


    Zoe shoots him a look that says ''shut up.'' Derek clicks his tongue in annoyance, but complies.


    "I want to apologize for how I acted the other day." Tracy starts.


    Jamison and Theo look up to her without betraying their thoughts on the matter. Derek is glaring daggers at her. Tracy swallows her anxiety and continues.


    "I''m sorry for judging you all so harshly. You''re Zoe''s friends, and that means you''re good in my book." Tracy finishes.


    There''s an awkward silence wherein Tracy fears the worst. Derek finally breaks the silence by pulling out a twenty dollar bill from his pocket. He grimaces as if in pain, and hands the bill to a smirking Jamison. Tracy and Zoe stare, dumbfounded.


    "We forgive you." Theo says flatly.


    Tracy shrugs, taking her seat without issue. Zoe slaps her hand on the table loudly.


    "You bet on it?! Seriously?!" Zoe exclaims.


    Derek and Jamison glance at one another before nodding slowly. Zoe groans as she takes her usual spot. Strangely enough Jamison is sitting by her now, not Theo.


    "We just thought she was either going to come back with an apology or keep acting all prissy, you know?" Jamison explains.


    This gets a mildly annoyed grunt out of Tracy as she chews her pizza. Zoe narrows her eyes at Derek and Jamison. They''re always like this. Zoe turns her attention to her food.


    "So, how was the date?" Derek asks boldly.


    Zoe pauses for a second. Derek is leaning on his hand, his elbow on the table. He''s got that adorably confident grin on his face. Zoe glances over at Theo, and then whips her head around to look at Tracy. Her face starts to redden.


    "A-Ah... which one..?" Zoe murmurs quietly.


    Derek smirks at Zoe''s words. He leans forward slightly and looks at both Theo and Tracy with a suggestive raise of his brows.


    "Hm... Let''s hear about the one with Theodore, shall we?" Derek prods.


    Zoe''s face starts to turn a shade of red not unlike the pepperoni on her slice of pizza. She licks her lips nervously, and looks up at Derek.


    "W-Well we went to his house... And uh, just chilled for a bit." Zoe mumbles softly.


    Derek squints at Zoe before turning his head to face Theo. Theo''s filling out some sort of chemistry worksheet, but he notices Derek''s gaze. He shakes his head at Derek. Derek whips his head back around to stare accusingly at Zoe.


    "I-I just kissed him once! That was all!" Zoe''s face is reddening further.


    "One time? How was it?" Derek encourages her to continue.


    Zoe buries her head in her hands. The memories of Theo''s lips on hers are flooding back. She replies with her hands obscuring her expression.


    "H-His mouth was really warm..." Zoe says.


    The little chorus of exclamations from everyone but Theo and Zoe serves to further her embarrassment. Theo isn''t even phased by it as he continues his busywork. Tracy gently pats Zoe on the back, smiling softly.


    "Aw, give it a rest. She''s gonna turn into a tomato at this rate." Tracy says with a smile.


    "Fine, I''ll stop." Derek relents.


    Zoe carefully lowers her hands to reveal her positively glowing face. Derek''s eyes widen ever so slightly as he looks at her. He''s used to seeing her other body''s adorable face, but not her original body. The subtle changes are obvious to Derek. She looks cuter than before.


    "Woah..." Derek breathes.


    Jamison turns to Theo with a bite of pizza in his mouth. He finishes it, and taps Theo''s worksheet to get his attention. Theo turns with an expectant look.


    "You wanna come over to my place tonight? I figure we could play a little more Tech Titans?" Jamison suggests.


    "Why are you asking me specifically?" Theo questions


    "I wanted to make sure you''d show up." Jamison replies awkwardly.


    The other three watch Jamison and Theo talk with curious eyes. Theo slowly nods in agreement.


    "Great. How about you all?" Jamison turns to the others.


    Zoe and Derek immediately nod at his words. The four of them hadn''t spent any time together as friends since the arcade visit, and we all know how well that went.


    Tracy points to herself in surprise.


    "Me? You want me to come?" Tracy questions.


    "Yup. I figure you may as well be invited. We''re just going to play video games and eat pizza, or whatever." Jamison explains casually.


    "Do... Do all of you feel okay with me coming?" Tracy asks incredulously.


    Derek nods without a second thought. Theo nods his head without looking up from his worksheet. Jamison and Zoe nod in tandem.


    "But, I was kind of a jerk-" Tracy starts to argue.


    "Don''t worry about it. They''re boys." Zoe says with a shrug.


    None of the boys take offense to that comment. Tracy shakes her head at the absurdity of it all before finishing her pizza. Boys and girls are wired differently, it seems.


    ~


    Five teenagers walk in a little group after school. An especially tall boy serves as the group''s vanguard. Two girls walk and talk just behind him. One muscular boy and one bespectacled boy take up the rear.


    The idle chatter of the girls and the scrape of the group''s shoes announces their arrival to the neighborhood. The boys are a lot quieter. Jamison is understandably silent as he is alone. Derek and Theo are silent for a less justifiable reason.


    "Damn." Derek murmurs.


    Derek''s eyes are trained on what''s in front of him. That being the girls. Zoe may not be in her ''girl'' body, but that doesn''t stop her ass from drawing the eye. Derek''s wandering gaze occasionally flits to Tracy''s toned butt as well, but he knows she''d deck him if she found out.


    "Staring is rude, Derek." Theo remarks quietly.


    Theo''s eyes are on the sky as he walks in step with Derek. Derek glances at him for a moment before smiling.


    "So you''re just as much of a guy as I am, huh Theodore?" Derek chuckles.


    Derek smirks smugly as Theo pleads the fifth. The girls are talking about something involving mall food now. Derek decides to follow Theo''s example, and stares up into the clouds. They''re both so caught up in looking at the sky that they don''t notice when the group arrives at Jamison''s place. Thus, Derek and Theo both run into Zoe and Tracy.


    "Ouch- What the hell?" Tracy complains.


    Zoe doesn''t say anything. She is too busy looking at Theo with starry eyes. Theo''s face is turning pink as he looks at Zoe. They''re basically right up against each other.


    On the other hand, Derek is about ready to piss himself. Tracy''s bicep flexes as she socks him right in the arm. He winces, stifling a cry of pain. Strangely enough, Tracy''s face is reddening as she shakes the tension out of her hand.


    "Damn, you''re solid... Do you work out or something?" Tracy questions.


    "Uh... yeah?" Derek replies dumbly.

 Common Interests [28]

    Jamison''s home looks much the same as it did a little over a week ago. Unlike last time, there are five teenagers here instead of four. Two girls and three boys. Jamison himself is sitting in the middle of the couch with a frown. On his left sits Zoe and Theo. They''re cuddling one another shamelessly. On his right sits Tracy and Derek, who are thankfully talking with a normal distance between one another.


    "I mean, I enjoy going for a jog as much as the next guy, but lifting just feels more satisfying." Derek argues.


    Tracy rolls her eyes at him.


    "Of course you''d say that, you meathead. Cardio is just as important as muscle mass." Tracy retorts.


    Derek pouts a little at Tracy''s words. His eyes flicker from her face to her bicep. Tracy promptly flexes her arm as if to show off.


    Jamison moves his attention away from that bizarre conversation to listen in on Zoe and Theo. Zoe''s sitting on Theo''s lap, and his arms are wrapped around her stomach. She''s in her magic girl body. The two of them look way too cozy for Jamison''s taste.


    Theo''s blue eyes are staring at Zoe as she leans her head on his chest. Jamison can tell Theo''s enjoying the warm weight of Zoe''s bust pressing down on his arms. Jamison nudges Theo to get his attention.


    "I want a turn." Jamison says pointedly.


    Zoe looks over at Jamison with a confused expression. Theo glances from Zoe to Jamison, and begrudgingly nods. Zoe squeaks in surprise as Theo picks her up by her hips, placing her onto Jamison''s lap.


    "W-What the heck?" Zoe whines.


    "I wanted a turn." Jamison says plainly.


    Jamison has a shameless smirk on his face as he wraps his arms around Zoe''s middle. The warm doughy weight of Zoe''s rear pressing onto his lap is immensely satisfying for Jamison. Zoe''s reddening complexion betrays her embarrassment. She sighs, and leans her head on Jamison''s chest much like she was doing with Theo.


    Tracy and Derek''s conversation comes to a halt as they both watch the spectacle. Derek turns to Tracy and they exchange raised eyebrows.


    "W-Why don''t we play a game?" Zoe pipes up suddenly.


    Jamison and Theo wait for Zoe to speak. Their full attention was already on her, so it''s hardly surprising. Derek and Tracy turn back to face Zoe.


    "What kind of game, Bunny?" Tracy asks cheekily.


    The boys all turn to Tracy in surprise. Zoe squeals in embarrassment as she covers her face with both of her small hands.


    "Bunny..?" Derek questions aloud.


    Zoe shakes her head in denial. Tracy laughs softly, turning to Derek.


    "Yeah. She acts like one, so I call her one." Tracy explains.


    "I-I never said you could call me that in front of my friends!" Zoe whines.


    Tracy giggles at Zoe''s expense. Jamison gently pets Zoe''s head as if to comfort her, but that only furthers her embarrassment. Theo picks up a controller off the coffee table and starts setting up Tech Titans 2.


    "Let''s quit teasing Bunny and play." Theo suggests.


    "Argh! Not you too!" Zoe exclaims.


    Zoe buries her face in Jamison''s chest as Theo smirks. Controllers are passed around. Zoe begrudgingly pulls her head away from Jamison to take hers. Derek takes his controller. Tracy hesitantly takes the controller offered to her.


    "Are you sure you want me to play? I''m not as familiar with it as Jamison would be..." Tracy questions.


    "I''ll pass. I''ve got plenty of entertainment right here." Jamison pats Zoe''s head to make his point.


    Tracy nods in understanding as Theo puts them on the character select screen. Zoe is blushing at Jamison''s insinuation as she picks out Valarie. Theo picks out his stealthy mech. Derek chooses the rolling mech. Tracy looks through the options before settling on a guy with a vizor piloting a mech armed with laser cannons.


    "So, how do I play?" Tracy asks casually.


    "Uh... you''ll figure it out." Derek replies unhelpfully.


    The match starts. Zoe is quick to target Theo. Her missiles blast him to bits while he''s trying to get out of her line of sight. Tracy is moving her mech around without any real idea of what''s going on. She gets steamrolled by Derek''s mech shortly after figuring out which character on the screen is hers.


    "Jeez. Well that wasn''t very nice." Tracy grumbles.


    Zoe manages to fly above Derek when he tries to roll into her. Derek''s mech spins in little circles in an effort to dodge the barrage of missiles Zoe launches. His strategy fails to account for the splash damage, and he loses the match.


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    "Sorry about that, Tracy. I can explain the controls?" Theo apologizes from across the couch.


    "Yeah, that''d be helpful." Tracy replies sharply.


    This time around Theo manages to get everyone to wait a moment at the start of the match. He moves over to Tracy and shows her how to control her mech, and she gets the hang of it. He explains how to use her attack, block, and special attack too.


    "I think I''ve got it?" Tracy murmurs.


    Theo is taken by surprise when Tracy fires off her special at him point blank. The huge beam of energy melts his mech before he can react. The others spring into action upon seeing Tracy has drawn first blood. Zoe launches a barrage of missiles aimed at Tracy. Derek rolls toward Tracy like a wrecking ball. Tracy foils their plans by jumping up just before Zoe''s missiles hit her. Derek is promptly blown to pieces by Zoe''s attack.


    "What the fuck?" Derek remarks in shock.


    "Sorry! I wasn''t aiming for you!" Zoe apologizes.


    Zoe isn''t able to hit Tracy as she quickly fires off a laser beam that destroys both Zoe''s missiles and her mech in one go. None of the friend group ever played this character, so he''s an enigma to them.


    "Gosh, you are good..." Zoe compliments.


    Tracy smiles smugly as Theo and Derek glare daggers at her. Theo''s look of betrayal gives Tracy pause, and she looks away from him out of shame.


    Jamison gently slides his hand along Zoe''s arm. She looks at him with reddened cheeks. Her bashful look quickly vanishes when Jamison casually plucks her controller from her hands. He smiles down at her pouting face.


    "Don''t be mad, Bunny. I''m going to teach our newest member a little lesson." Jamison explains softly.


    "Oh, will you now?" Tracy taunts.


    The character select screen opens as Jamison presses a button. He quickly selects a character he doesn''t play with his friends. This one is a meek looking scientist with round glasses, and he pilots a mech covered in chunks of ice.


    "You''re acting real cocky, newbie." Derek remarks.


    Tracy shrugs as the game loads into a level filled with pitfalls. Tracy casually grips her controller as the countdown starts. Theo and Derek lean forward slightly, readying themselves. Jamison has one hand on the controller and one hand on Zoe''s belly.


    Beginner''s luck, Tracy.


    Jamison''s mech slides toward Derek''s as soon as the match starts. Derek tries to roll at Jamison, but he can''t gain enough momentum by the time Jamison gets there. Jamison fires off a blast of snowy air that freezes Derek.


    "The fuck is with these characters?" Derek groans.


    Derek''s frozen mech is turned to fragments of ice as Jamison hits him with an oversized ice pick. Meanwhile, Theo is stalking Tracy. Tracy is firing off random laser beams in an attempt to hit Theo''s cloaked mech, but none of her shots make contact. Theo finally gets close to her and goes for a stabbing attack. Tracy jumps and shots him point blank with her special, killing him instantly.


    "Jamison, you had better win this." Theo gripes.


    Jamison''s icy mech starts to slide toward Tracy as he finally puts both hands on the controller. Tracy aims her beam weapon toward him, firing off a laser. Jamison''s mech holds up its frozen arm. Tracy watches in surprise as her laser beam reflects off the icy arm harmlessly.


    "What the heck?" Tracy murmurs.


    Tracy backs away in an effort to stall. Her special attack might do the trick, but Tracy needs to wait for it to recharge. Jamison''s special is also cooling down, so all he can do is charge at her with his ice pick. Tracy finally stops running when her special finishes charging. She presses the button to fire her huge laser blast attack, but it never goes off.


    Jamison''s special stops her mid attack. The frosty air turns Tracy into a block of ice. Jamison quickly smashes her into shards of ice without hesitation.


    "That wasn''t fair!" Tracy whines.


    "Sounds like you''re just salty." Jamison laughs.


    ~


    Ding!


    The sound of the doorbell rouses the teenagers from their seats. Jamison heads over to answer the door. The others head into the kitchen to grab plates. Zoe attempts to reach for a plate, but she can''t quite reach it. Derek leans over to help, but Zoe beats him to it.


    "Swap!"


    The strange sight of Zoe going from her fun sized form to her taller one shocks Derek a little. He steps back as she grabs two plates from the cabinet, and brings one over to Tracy. Tracy takes it with a raised brow.


    "You swapped just to get a plate?" Tracy asks.


    "Uhuh. It''s my magic, so I''ll use it how I want!" Zoe replies.


    Jamison returns from the door with pizza in hand. Three pizza boxes and a two liter of soda are placed on the table. Derek practically assaults the pizza, stacking five slices onto his plate. The others are more relaxed in their approach.


    "Swapped back, huh?" Jamison comments.


    "Yup! The height boost is convenient." Zoe replies before taking a bite.


    Zoe relishes the flavor of her slice of pizza. The gooey cheese. The tangy sauce. The doughy crust. Perhaps Zoe has a bit of an obsession with pizza.


    Partway through the meal Jamison lightly taps Zoe on the shoulder. She turns to him with a mouthful of pizza.


    "You left some stuff upstairs last time..." Jamison says sheepishly.


    Zoe nods in understanding and gets up. She wipes her hands off on a napkin and follows Jamison''s taller self out of the kitchen. The others at the table glance longingly at the pair as they head upstairs. Alone.


    The vaguely familiar family photos and artwork still adorn the walls here. The cozy lighting and close quarters of the upstairs contrasts heavily with the wide open spaces downstairs. Jamison leads Zoe into his room, and flicks on the lights.


    "Huh. That''s new." Zoe comments.


    Jamison''s room is still just as tidy as it was last time. There are several drawings adorning the walls. They''re not particularly good drawings, but Jamison obviously put a lot of effort into them. Colored pencil depictions of flowers and animals. Some of buildings.


    "Yeah. I uh, thought I''d brighten up the place? I dunno." Jamison says with a shrug.


    Zoe nods along with Jamison''s words as she inspects some of his drawings. He walks over to the closet and opens it, pulling out a bundle of clothing.


    "Here..." Jamison offers.


    Zoe takes the bundle of clothing in her hands and looks at it. It contains the old underwear Jamison bought for her at the mall. She glances back up at him with a coy smirk.


    "You saved my old underwear, Jamie?" Zoe says suggestively.


    Jamison awkwardly nods. He''s turning a little pink as Zoe looks up at him. She smiles a strangely sultry smile, and parts her lips.


    "Swap."


    Zoe''s body twists briefly with the flow of magic, and she''s back in her shorter form. Jamison struggles to avoid staring down at her exposed cleavage. She leans forward and holds up the too small pair of panties, pushing it toward Jamison''s face.


    "W-What are you doing, Zoe?" Jamison asks nervously.


    Jamison takes a step back, and Zoe grabs him by the wrist. She pushes the black fabric of her panties into his face. Jamison is staring cross eyed at them.


    "Just trying to see if you did what I think you did." Zoe replies airily.


    "I-I don''t know what you''re-" Jamison starts to reply.


    Zoe cuts him off by pressing her free hand against his body. Her small hand slides down from his stomach to his crotch, and his breath hitches. He can feel her small hand grab onto the unmistakable protrusion in his jeans. She smiles smugly up at him.


    "Sure you don''t." Zoe says ominously.

 Helping Hand [29]

    "Z-Zoe I don''t-" Jamison tries to protest.


    Zoe''s grip on his crotch tightens ever so slightly. The tall boy looks down at the much shorter girl with wide eyes. She carefully traces her small finger along the outline of his staff.


    "Jamison. Did you happen to do anything with these before handing them back to me?" Zoe asks suggestively.


    Zoe is referring to her panties, held against Jamison''s nose. Jamison shakes his head in denial. Zoe''s small fingers gently pinch Jamison''s base through his jeans. She pulls her old panties from his face.


    "You didn''t? Then why are you so excited by them?" Zoe deadpans.


    "I-I am just reacting to you." Jamison says sternly.


    Zoe quirks a smile at that. Her small hands gently slide up from his crotch to his jeans'' button. She pops his button open, and unzips them. Jamison looks away. His face is reddening. Zoe''s nose twitches at an unfamiliar scent.


    What is... this..?


    Something churns in Zoe''s core as she suddenly pushes her face toward Jamison''s crotch. Jamison yelps in surprise as Zoe comes very close to making contact with his underwear clad self. She stops short, and takes a few sniffs.


    The intoxicating musky scent wafting off Jamison is like a drug. Zoe nearly loses herself in the urge to press her face against him, but she holds firm. Zoe stiffly pulls her head away before bringing her hand to Jamison''s midriff. Jamison is staring at her like she''s a ghost.


    "What''s the matter, Jamie?~" Zoe asks coyly.


    Jamison swallows the lump in his throat. He pushes her behavior out of his mind and focuses on her appearance instead. Her top is low cut enough to give him a view of her cleavage, and he can hardly maintain eye contact. She smiles at his predicament.


    "I''ve kind of always wondered what this would be like..." Zoe says softly.


    Jamison stiffens up as Zoe''s hands grip the hem of his boxers. He relaxes as she slides them down his body. His erection is finally exposed to the girl he adores. Zoe blinks in surprise at it. Her doe eyes glancing at it before looking back up at him.


    "Okay, time out! Why is it so big?" Zoe questions.


    The sultry mood is put on hold as Zoe voices her concern. Jamison blinks down at her before turning his attention to his engorged staff. There''s nothing special about this particular erection.


    "Uh... It''s normal?" Jamison replies.


    Zoe looks back at it and blushes. The look of irritation on her face confuses Jamison. He yelps when she grasps it with her soft hand. The girl''s grip is a little too tight. She flinches at his obvious pain, and eases up immediately.


    "S-Sorry..." Zoe mumbles.


    Jamison breathes out slowly as Zoe''s smooth hand slides along his length. The sensation of it sends pulses of pleasure right to Jamison''s brain. Zoe is staring at his length in her hands. She''s blushing just as much as him.


    Blood gradually fills Jamison''s length as Zoe stimulates him with her hands. Her confidence returns as Jamison starts to unconsciously buck his hips into her hands. Her lips curl into a smirk as she slows her stroking motions to a stop.


    "Huh..?" Jamison murmurs dizzily.


    Zoe steps away from Jamison and carefully squats down. Jamison''s eyes widen as he watches Zoe pull off her panties right in front of him. The short girl stands back up with the black garment in hand. She''s blushing again.


    "I''m sure you''ll enjoy this, Jamie." Zoe says seductively.


    Jamison feels the silky fabric of Zoe''s panties wrap around his shaft. The warmth of the fabric fills Jamison with lewd thoughts. He can''t help but imagine the vulnerable place this fabric was pressed against moments earlier. Zoe starts to slide her panties along with her hand up and down Jamison''s length.


    "This... Jesus Christ..." Jamison murmurs.


    Zoe giggles as her small hand begins to move faster along his length. It takes a lot of self control for Jamison to not pounce on his small friend. Her brown eyes are sparkling with lust.


    Jamison gently leans down toward Zoe. She looks up at him in understanding, and happily presses her plush lips to his. The warmth of Zoe''s mouth coupled with the stimulation on his erection is driving Jamison over the edge. He slips his arms behind Zoe.


    The squish of Jamison''s hands against her butt startles Zoe. Jamison''s fingers squish into the doughy flesh as they continue kissing. Zoe''s hand continues to jerk her panties up and down his length. Heat rises in Jamison''s body. He separates his lips from hers.


    "Z-Zoe I-" Jamison stammers.


    Zoe''s eyes flit from Jamison''s face to his nethers. She quickly wraps the soft black fabric of her panties around the end of his shaft, and kisses him. Jamison''s eyes widen a little as he feels her tongue slip between his lips. He releases.


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    The hot pulsing sensations wracking Jamison''s body overwhelm him. Zoe keeps her hand on him, letting the discharge soak into her panties. Jamison helplessly bucks his hips against her hand. She carefully squeezes out the last of his orgasm with her hand.


    "Feel better, Jamie?~" Zoe asks in a sultry tone.


    Jamison whimpers softly.


    "Y-Yeah. We should really get back downstairs..." Jamison replies.


    Zoe carefully uses her panties to wipe off Jamison''s deflating member. He pulls his clothes back on whilst she sniffs her sullied undergarment. Jamison looks over at her with an embarrassed frown.


    "I-It smells, sorry..." Jamison apologizes.


    Jamison''s eyes widen as Zoe slips on her soaked panties without a complaint. The sheer depravity of seeing the dark haired girl slide a piece of fabric covered in his essence up against herself is incredibly arousing. Zoe wiggles in place with a look of uncertainty on her face.


    "Feels kind of weird, but not bad." Zoe murmurs.


    ~


    Tracy frowns as she finishes her glass of soda. Derek and Theo have finished their pizza and drinks, too. The three of them all look at one another with the same thought. The faint sound of footsteps coming down the stairs catches their attention.


    That took a suspicious amount of time...


    Jamison leads the way for Zoe. The way he avoids his friends'' gazes coupled with his flushed complexion is telling. Tracy glances over at Zoe to see her smiling brightly. Whatever happened, Zoe clearly enjoyed it.


    "Took you long enough." Derek commends snidely.


    Derek gets up from the dining table. He sidles up to Jamison with a scowl adorning his features. He looks Jamison up and down before frowning even more. Zoe walks over to the table and grabs a slice of pizza, eating it.


    "So... What happened?" Tracy asks casually.


    "Mfh?" Zoe says with her mouth full.


    "Did you two fuck, or..?" Tracy elaborates.


    Zoe nearly spits out her pizza. She grabs her glass of soda and gulps it down before turning back to give Tracy a pointed look. The way Zoe''s cheeks are reddening gives her away.


    "So you did!" Tracy exclaims.


    "No, We did not!" Jamison defense


    Derek scoffs at Jamison''s words. Derek wastes no time in pointing down at Jamison''s unzipped fly. He tilts his head toward Zoe. They all understand the implications. Zoe is turning a little redder.


    "W-We didn''t have sex." Zoe defends.


    The awkward silence following her statement is quickly broken by the front door opening. There''s a tall man with greying hair wearing a suit. He has an uncanny resemblance to Jamison. Jamison blanches as the man steps inside. He looks around the room warily before sighing.


    "Jamison, who are these children?" The man asks.


    Jamison awkwardly approaches the well dressed man. He clears his throat, and straightens his posture. Everyone else stays quiet.


    "They''re my friends from school, Sir." Jamison replies respectfully.


    The man glances at the teenagers.


    He carefully looks at Theo, and nods.


    His gaze passes to Tracy, and he squints. His scrutinizing look softens after a few moments.


    His eyes move over to Zoe, and he scowls at her. Zoe shrinks back.


    The man''s sharp eyes finally settle on Derek. Derek''s lopsided grin does little for him.


    The man shakes his head and turns to address Jamison.


    "I thought I told you to stop associating with certain crowds, Jamison?" The man asks coldly.


    "Won''t happen again, Sir." Jamison replies stiffly.


    The man walks past Jamison without another word. He opens the fridge and pulls out something. Jamison gestures to the others to follow him outside. They all shuffle quietly out the door, leaving the man behind.


    Outside, a rather expensive looking car is parked in the driveway. Jamison takes a seat on the porch. The others follow suit. Tracy turns to Jamison with a curious expression.


    "Was that your dad?" Tracy questions.


    Jamison tenses up slightly. He nods.


    "Yes. He prefers I call him Sir." Jamison replies.


    Tracy makes a face at that. Zoe scoffs quietly from her seat.


    "He''s such a weirdo. Why''d he have to glare at me like that?" Zoe bemoans.


    Derek glances over at Zoe. His eyes flit from her shoes to her hair, and he lets out a low chuckle. She''s dressed in a lot of black, and the amount of skin showing is nothing to sneeze at.


    "I think he''s worried you''re a harlot coming to snatch his son away." Theo voices Derek''s thoughts.


    Zoe blushes slightly as she looks over at Jamison. Their earlier moment of intimacy lends some credibility to Jamison''s father''s concerns. She did in fact initiate that whole ordeal, and she did totally commit some lewd acts with his precious son.


    "Oh, and I''m not?" Tracy retorts.


    Theo looks at Tracy with a blank look on his face. His eyes trace the curve of her toned body, and he stops at the outline of her bust. Tracy promptly kicks him in the shin.


    "Ouch-" Theo yelps in shock.


    "That''ll teach you to gawk." Tracy huffs.


    Theo blushes, holding his shin tenderly.


    "Sorry, I was just trying to discern what Jamison''s dad thought was so bad about Zoe..." Theo apologizes weakly.


    The group all turns their attention to Zoe, and then back to Tracy. Tracy sighs softly as she looks down at herself.


    "Yeah, it''s got to be the boobs." Tracy says plainly.


    "Yep." Derek agrees.


    "Probably." Jamison adds.


    "Definitely." Theo confirms.


    Zoe blinks at her friends in shock. Heat rises to her face. At this rate she''ll turn into a tomato, considering how often she''s turning red. Her lips form a soft pout as she wraps her small arms around her chest in an effort to cover herself.


    "I-I hate you guys." Zoe mumbles.


    Tracy immediately pulls Zoe into a gentle hug. She rubs the shorter girl''s back as she and the boys exchange guilty looks.


    "Sorry, Zoe. We didn''t mean to make you uncomfortable..." Tracy apologizes softly.


    Zoe calms down a little. She stays cuddled up to Tracy. Jamison stands up hesitantly.


    "I should get back inside. He''ll be expecting me." Jamison says dryly.


    Jamison moves to enter the house, but Zoe''s small hand stops him. She''s grabbing him by the wrist. Jamison frowns bitterly at her.


    "Are you going to stop talking to us like he said?" Zoe asks.


    Jamison''s eyes flicker away from Zoe''s gaze. He carefully uses his other hand to pry Zoe''s little fingers away from his wrist. He turns the handle and opens the door. Zoe''s face twists in confusion as he starts to shut the door.


    "I''ll text you guys. Just... hang in there." Jamison says quietly.


    "But Jamie-" Zoe starts.


    The door shuts in Zoe''s face, cutting her off. The four teenagers stare blankly at the front door for several moments. They snap out of it when Zoe stomps off toward the sidewalk. Tracy turns to follow her. Derek and Theo glance at the girls before looking back at the door.


    "Do you think Jamison is gonna be alright?" Derek asks quietly.


    Theo purses his lips at the question. He can''t say for certain.


    "Let''s hope so. I''d hate to see Zoe upset... well, more upset." Theo replies.


    The boys'' gazes turn to watch Zoe walk away from Tracy. Tracy is doing her best to comfort the smaller girl, but it isn''t working. Derek and Theo step off the porch. They follow the girls.


    The sun is setting.

 Splintering [30]

    The bizarre thing about having friends for a long time is how they grow to become a part of your environment. After they show up in your life repeatedly over the course of a few years, they''re ingrained in your world. Sometimes you''ll forget they''re not just a part of your reality. You can take their presence for granted. And then they''re gone.


    Usually Zoe can walk down a specific street in the morning to find Jamison. His route to school hardly ever changed over the years. Sadly Zoe can''t find him today. He''s either taken a different route, or he''s ridden a car to school.


    Stupid Jamison...


    Zoe stomps her way toward the school with her dark hair swishing behind her. The walk to the school is uneventful. Zoe glances down at her phone, checking the group chat. There''s a few messages. Nothing from Jamison.


    Derek: Yo


    Theo: Yes?


    Derek: Wanna mess around in the woods after school?


    Theo: I think I should work on my homework.


    Derek: Wbu Zoe?


    Derek: Plzzz


    Zoe: Fineee!


    Derek: :)


    The sound of a car passing by catches Zoe''s attention. She looks up to see an expensive car with blacked out windows. The vehicle slows to a stop out front of the school. Out steps a tall boy. He''s wearing a white polo, blue jeans, and some very nice looking sneakers. Zoe squints at the boy for a moment. He looks familiar.


    Jamison?


    Zoe goes to approach him. The bell ringing gives her pause, but she presses forward regardless. Jamison''s tall self looks more standoffish than usual. His clothes look way pricier. Zoe goes to grab his wrist, but he pulls his hand up to avoid it. She looks up to see him staring down at her icily. There''s none of the usual warmth in his eyes.


    "I would prefer if you didn''t touch me." Jamison says in an unfamiliar tone.


    Jamison''s cold shoulder shocks Zoe. She''s known Jamison for years, yet he''s never acted this way. Zoe has never met his father, either. He''s likely the one behind this. Jamison walks off with the flow of students into the school. Zoe feels a hand on her shoulder.


    Zoe looks up to see Derek''s familiar face. Derek is scowling at Jamison as he keeps a firm yet not too tight grip on Zoe''s shoulder. Tracy is standing beside Derek with her arms crossed over her chest.


    "He''s really done it now." Derek mutters darkly.


    Zoe''s face scrunches up as she struggles to hold back her emotions. Frustration and betrayal flash across her small face as she stares at Jamison''s back.


    "Why is he acting like that?" Zoe asks softly.


    Tracy gently places her hand on Zoe''s back, rubbing her comfortingly. Derek pulls his hand from Zoe and starts to walk toward the school.


    "He''s just behaving how his daddy wants him to." Tracy sighs.


    Zoe manages to bottle up her emotions as Tracy pulls her toward the school. The taller girl gently takes Zoe''s hand, guiding her. Zoe''s heart hurts.


    ~


    The ticking of the clock serves as a reminder of the passage of time. Zoe''s eyes follow the second hand as it moves in jerky motions. The hands of the clock rotate based on predefined rules, therefore they can be predicted. Zoe sighs.


    If only people were predictable...


    Zoe''s eyes move from the clock to the book in her hands. She once liked this book. It really isn''t keeping her interest anymore. The story started out as engaging, but stagnated around chapter thirty. Zoe''s eyes flit to her worksheet.


    Questions asking about the content of chapter thirty fill the page. One question''s answer space is filled with Zoe''s somewhat neat handwriting. Her doe eyes follow the curves of the letters. She smiles at a memory of the chicken scratch she used to write.


    The memory of her old handwriting shifts Zoe''s attention to the girl sitting on her left. Tracy is busy reading her copy of the book. The way Tracy rests her pencil on her bottom lip brings a smile to Zoe''s face. Tracy''s toned body draws Zoe''s gaze down.


    Maybe I should work out?


    She does look pretty good.


    The ticking of the clock and rustling of paper remind Zoe of her assignment. She takes a deep breath and looks back at her book. The words on the page gradually start to flow as she reads them. The characters'' personalities grow with each paragraph. Zoe''s interest feels... rekindled.


    Then the bell rings. Zoe blinks in surprise as other students turn in their worksheets at the front of class. Panic floods Zoe''s mind as she hurriedly scans her worksheet. Her pencil slides along the paper fluidly as she quickly writes down her answers. Mrs. Johnson approaches.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "Mr. Kim..." Mrs. Johnson urges Zoe.


    Zoe cringes at the way she addresses her, but it can''t be helped. She''s not quite ready to fully come out to the school. Zoe scrawls the last of her answers in a rush. She quickly passes the worksheet to Mrs. Johnson, and picks her bag up.


    Mrs. Johnson''s hand gently stops Zoe from walking out. She''s just holding it in Zoe''s way as if to say to wait. She reads over Zoe''s worksheet before turning to look at her.


    "Ryker-" Mrs. Johnson starts.


    Hearing that name out of the blue causes Zoe immense discomfort. She feels a little nauseous. Her complexion pales immediately. Mrs. Johnson frowns, her eyebrows furrowing in concern.


    "Would you prefer if I just referred to you as ''Kim'' during class?" Mrs. Johnson asks.


    Zoe immediately nods her answer. She''s relieved when Mrs. Johnson gestures for her to go ahead to lunch. The conversation replays in Zoe''s mind as she leaves the classroom. Her mood improves without her noticing, and she starts smiling.


    Tracy is waiting for Zoe just outside the classroom. She perks up upon seeing Zoe walk out of the classroom. The taller girl sighs softly as they enter the cafeteria.


    "Something wrong?" Zoe asks her.


    Zoe and Tracy walk over to join the lunch line like usual.


    "I''m just not sure how to feel about things lately." Tracy mumbles.


    Tracy''s words resonate with Zoe. She tunes out the chatter of the cafeteria as she thinks. Lately things have been so messy and complicated. People confessing their feelings. Going on dates. Doing adult activities she never used to think about. Zoe almost misses how things were before that fateful evening. Almost.


    Zoe''s thoughts peter off as she and Tracy get their food. The rather nasty bean burrito on her tray isn''t very appetizing, but it''s what she''s got. The two girls make their way to the usual table. The atmosphere feels so much emptier than it did yesterday.


    "Sup." Tracy greets.


    "Hey." Derek replies.


    Derek and Theo are both sitting at the usual table, but there''s an empty seat between them. Theo doesn''t say anything. He''s busying himself with a calculus worksheet. The amount of writing on the paper is a little concerning.


    Zoe sits down beside Derek in her usual seat. Tracy sits to her left. The lack of the group''s leader feels a little strange. Jamison''s absence is felt by everyone.


    "So, are we all just going to mope about that loser being gone?" Derek remarks.


    Tracy looks up from her burrito.


    "I mean, he was kind of emo, but he was still a decent guy." Tracy replies.


    Zoe nods in agreement.


    "I like Jamie a lot!" Zoe chirps.


    "Why''re you calling him Jamie?" Derek questions.


    This brings a slight blush to Zoe''s cheeks. She didn''t really start calling him that for any particular reason, but the context is a little embarrassing. Images of yesterday evening flash through Zoe''s head as she looks at Derek''s confused expression.


    "N-No reason!" Zoe stammers a little too loudly.


    Derek smirks in amusement at Zoe''s clear distress. She''s got that rosy hue covering her adorable face, and he can''t get enough of it. Tracy smiles for the same reason Derek does. Unlike the other two, Theo isn''t paying any attention to those around him. He quietly puts away his stuff.


    Theo gets up from the table.


    The others watch the bespectacled boy walk away from the table without a word. He''s busy weaving through the crowd, and doesn''t look back. Zoe frowns bitterly as Theo turns his back on them much like Jamison did. It feels like deja vu.


    "What''s his problem?" Derek huffs.


    Derek looks just as hurt as Zoe. Normally Derek puts on a tough front, but these are his childhood friends, too. He takes a bite of his food with a scowl on his face. Zoe''s expression shifts to one of concern for her friend.


    "I''m sure he''s just taking the whole Jamison thing harder than the rest of us." Zoe makes an excuse for Theo.


    Zoe watches Derek''s face for a change in mood. He finally shifts his frown to a neutral expression as he looks up to address Zoe.


    "I guess that might be it." Derek admits.


    "Yeah." Tracy adds.


    The quiet sound of chewing is drowned out by the din of the cafeteria.


    I wonder where Jamison is going to eat his lunch?


    ~


    The faint sounds of teenagers talking and chairs being moved across tile echoes down the hallway. Sitting on the tile floor is a lunchbox, filled with various snack items. The boy sitting beside this lunchbox chews upon a leftover slice of pizza.


    What the hell am I doing this for?


    Jamison takes a bite of his pizza slice. The amount of pizza left over after last night''s fiasco wasn''t huge, but it was enough for Jamison to bring some to school as lunch. The pizza doesn''t taste as good without his friends.


    Quiet footsteps approach the area Jamison is sitting at. He glances up to see a boy even taller than him walking over. The taller boy looks a little confused upon seeing someone sitting here. He takes a deep breath, and walks over.


    "Ah... Hi." The taller boy says.


    "Uh... Hello?" Jamison replies.


    The taller boy is wearing a grey sweater that hides the shape of his body. He takes a seat a short distance away from Jamison, and starts to eat his burrito. This taller boy looks somewhat familiar, but Jamison can''t place why.


    "I was just wondering... are you okay?" The taller boy asks.


    Jamison frowns at the boy''s question. He decides to answer him on a whim.


    "No, not really." Jamison replies.


    The taller boy doesn''t know how to respond to Jamison''s curt reply. He eventually works up the courage to continue the conversation.


    "Do you mind telling me why?" The taller boy asks.


    "Recently I''ve cut some of my closest friends out of my life, and I really regret it." Jamison explains.


    The taller boy frowns, pouting slightly as he considers Jamison''s predicament.


    "Why did you cut them out in the first place?" The taller boy asks.


    "My father told me to do it. He said I was be failing him as a son. He wants me to associate with ''high class individuals'' or something like that." Jamison sighs.


    Jamison''s food tastes stale as he swallows it. The taller boy frowns at Jamison before finally giving him some advice.


    "I think you should just go be with your friends." The taller boy says.


    Jamison huffs, glaring at the strange boy.


    "Maybe you should just shut up about stuff you don''t understand, dude." Jamison snaps.


    Strangely the much larger boy flinches at Jamison''s words. The boy looks down at his feet. He pulls his legs close to his chest, and rests his head on his knees. The position reminds Jamison of someone. He decides to apologize.


    "I''m sorry, man. I didn''t mean to snap at you like that." Jamison apologizes.


    Instead of being relieved or cordial, the taller boy flinches once again. Jamison''s eyes widen as he watches the taller boy begin to cry. Tears fall down from his face and into his lap. The sight of such a large boy crying is a shock to the system.


    "A-Are you ok, dude?" Jamison asks gently.


    "I''m a girl." The girl manages to choke out.


    Jamison''s perspective shifts rapidly as he looks at the girl sitting beside him for the first time. Recognition flickers through his brown eyes as he sees familiar traits in the girl sitting beside him. He carefully words his reply.


    "What''s your name?" Jamison asks.


    "Matthew." The girl replies somberly.

 Scream Into The Void [31]

    The usual stampede of students fleeing campus pushes Zoe along. She wonders if this is how a leaf floating down a river feels. Someone grabs Zoe''s wrist and pulls her out of the deluge of teenagers. Derek smirks casually at her.


    "You looked like you were getting swept away, haha." Derek comments.


    Zoe smiles up at Derek. The strength behind Derek''s grasp doesn''t go unnoticed. Her eyes flicker across Derek''s toned arms for a brief moment. Zoe refocuses on his face.


    "It''s just because I''m in my small body." Zoe replies pointedly.


    Zoe feels a hand gently sit on her head. She turns to see Tracy petting her like a dog. Zoe pouts, pushing Tracy''s hand from atop her head.


    "What? I was just petting the bunny." Tracy defends.


    "I am not a bunny!" Zoe huffs.


    "You''re small enough to be one. You said it yourself." Derek argues.


    The hallway they''re standing is deserted, so Zoe proves her friends wrong with magic.


    "Swap!"


    Zoe''s body rearranges itself into her taller self. She smiles smugly at her friends. Tracy rolls her eyes whilst Derek smirks down at Zoe. He gently pats her on the head, making his height advantage apparent even when Zoe is in her taller form. Zoe pouts.


    "We should get going." Zoe changes the subject.


    "Sure, Bunny." Derek replies.


    Derek follows an embarrassed Zoe toward the doors. Tracy trails behind them until they make their way outside.


    "I''m gonna head home for today." Tracy says.


    Zoe looks at Tracy with puppy dog eyes, but it doesn''t sway the athletic girl.


    "Can''t you just come with us to hang out?" Zoe whines.


    Zoe doesn''t notice Tracy exchange eye contact with Derek. Derek tilts his head as if to say something, and Tracy moves her gaze back to Zoe.


    "Sorry, I have homework to do. I''ll hang out next time, ok Bunny?" Tracy promises.


    "Fine. I''ll hold you to it!" Zoe replies.


    Derek nods to Tracy as the three teenagers part ways. Zoe follows behind Derek, oblivious to the deal made between her two friends.


    Their shoes scrape softly on the sidewalk as they make their way toward the edge of town. Suburban homes serve as the backdrop for their long walk. Derek turns slightly toward Zoe, and reaches out. Zoe''s eyes widen a little in surprise as Derek takes her hand in his.


    "Derek?" Zoe asks softly.


    Derek doesn''t reply. His larger calloused hand holds hers firmly. He keeps walking with Zoe in tow, but now they''re holding hands. The lack of words being exchanged does little to dampen the mood. Zoe''s soft fingers gently intertwine with Derek''s.


    Is this what I think it is?


    They walk like this for several minutes. Zoe doesn''t try to pull her hand away, and Derek doesn''t try to do anything else. He looks content with this. Derek tries not to make his joy obvious, but he''s smiling from ear to ear.


    I guess he likes me.


    At this rate I''ll wind up with a harem, haha!


    Finally the pair arrive at the edge of the woods. The majority of the trees have lost their leaves now. The forest floor is covered with the tree''s shedding. The autumn wind is chilly, but Zoe''s sweater keeps her relatively warm. Derek guides her into the forest.


    Zoe carefully follows Derek''s lead as he helps her step over a few tangled roots. The crunch of brush underfoot is interspersed with the call of an animal someplace unseen. Both teens are exerting themselves enough to barely notice the chill of the wind.


    The hill ahead is adorned with a huge chunk of rock at its peak. The squarish boulder looks like a prime hangout spot. Derek gently pulls Zoe up the hill. They have to separate their hands to grasp at trees for support. It''s quite the climb.


    Derek is the first to reach the top. He climbs easily up onto the boulder, but Zoe isn''t confident she can do the same. Derek reaches down to help her up. Zoe grabs onto Derek''s offered hands. He helps her up without issue. They sit there atop the boulder, panting.


    "This is my uh... my place." Derek breathes out.


    Zoe glances around the boulder. It''s a sturdy spot to sit, and it has a good view of the surrounding forest. The rooves of houses are visible further off beyond the trees.


    "It''s a good spot." Zoe comments.


    Derek nods in reply. He carefully stands up, moving to the highest point of the large rock. Zoe watches him curiously as he cups his hands around his mouth.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Fuck you, Jamison!" Derek hollers.


    Zoe winces slightly at the sheer volume of the sound. Derek turns to her with an apologetic grin.


    "Sorry... I usually come here alone." Derek apologizes.


    "What was that about..?" Zoe asks.


    Derek turns away from her to look out across the forest. The wind ruffles his shirt as he stands there. He clenches his fists, frowning. He calms back down and turns to Zoe.


    "I like to come here to get certain thoughts out. To just yell them at the world, you know?" Derek explains.


    Zoe nods slowly in understanding. She doesn''t normally scream her frustrations at the forest, but she can see how that would help. Derek offers her a hand, and she takes it. He helps her stand atop the boulder''s peak. It''s windy, but Derek keeps her steady.


    "Wanna try it?" Derek offers.


    Zoe nods resolutely. She takes a deep breath, her anguish rising to the forefront of her mind. She cups her hands around her mouth.


    "Fuck you, Jamie!" Zoe screams.


    Derek laughs, but stops when Zoe continues.


    "Fuck you too, Theodore! And fuck you, Tracy! Fuck Derek, too! Fuck all of you!" Zoe yells hoarsely.


    Zoe is panting heavily after having gotten that out of her system. Derek''s eyebrows are up as he watches the girl look out bitterly at the horizon. She eventually calms herself down, and turns to sheepishly smile at Derek.


    "S-Sorry." Zoe apologizes.


    Derek laughs at Zoe''s change in attitude. He gently wraps his arms around her, hugging her. The wind is forgotten as they embrace one another. They separate.


    "It''s fine, Zoe." Derek says.


    Zoe sighs, taking a seat on the boulder. Derek follows suit, looking at her.


    "Do you want to talk about it?" Derek asks softly.


    Zoe nods. She closes her eyes, taking deep breaths. She opens her eyes once more.


    "I have a lot I want to talk about. About everything. About everyone." Zoe replies bitterly.


    Derek nods slowly, urging her to go on.


    "The most annoying one is Jamie. I mean, he can''t just act like we aren''t worth his time. Especially not after what we did!" Zoe complains.


    "What you did..?" Derek questions.


    Zoe''s cheeks flush slightly.


    "I-I gave him a... a handjob. I think that''s what it''s called, anyway?" Zoe replies shyly.


    Derek scowls a little, cursing Jamison for his good fortune. He turns to Zoe with a bitter smile.


    "And then he turned around and said fuck you, childhood friends?" Derek says.


    "Yeah, exactly! You''d think he''d be grateful. Stupid Jamie... Ugh." Zoe gripes.


    Zoe feels Derek gently wrap his arm around her. She leans into him as he holds her. More of her frustration spills forth as he comforts her.


    "Theodore is such a butt head, too. He thinks he''s so much better than everyone!" Zoe whines.


    "Oh yeah, don''t get me started on that guy." Derek laughs.


    "The worst part is that he thinks he''s so smart. I know what he''s planning half the time, but I let him think he''s some kind of genius..." Zoe sighs.


    Derek tilts his head at that.


    "You do? Why let him?" Derek questions.


    Zoe looks up at Derek with those brown eyes of hers. She blushes slightly.


    "I-I think its cute how smug he gets." Zoe admits.


    Derek isn''t sure what to say to that. He can''t help but wonder how long Zoe has been thinking of Theo''s antics as cute. She must have been suppressing herself for years.


    "Anyway, Tracy is also annoying sometimes. She just won''t relax! I just wish she''d stop being so judgmental with all of you guys." Zoe grumbles.


    "Yeah, I get that. She''s been better about it lately, though." Derek replies.


    "True." Zoe agrees begrudgingly.


    There''s an awkward silence as Zoe is brought to her last complaint. She''s sitting with the subject of her ire, and he''s gently holding her like she''s a delicate flower. Zoe''s face reddens as she opens her mouth to speak.


    "I-I do like you, Derek." Zoe says timidly.


    Derek scoffs at her words. She pouts at him.


    "I''m not gonna bite your head off. Just go ahead and talk about how you feel." Derek encourages her.


    "F-Fine. I just don''t like it when you''re too rough with the other boys. You were... never really that rough with me, but I wish you''d go easier on Jamie and Theo." Zoe explains softly.


    Derek smiles a little. He gently leans his head atop hers, and squeezes her just a bit closer.


    "I''ll do my best to fix that stuff, Zoe." Derek promises softly.


    "Th-Thanks." Zoe replies shyly.


    Zoe and Derek sit atop that boulder cuddling for several more minutes. Eventually the sun is sitting on the horizon, and the wind is getting colder. The couple huddle closer for warmth. Derek gently picks Zoe up, holding her in his lap. Zoe worries she''s too heavy for Derek in this taller form. She decides to remedy that.


    "Swap."


    Derek''s eyes widen as Zoe morphs into her small form atop his lap. He can''t help but blush as Zoe''s doughy rear settles on him. His arms slip around her midsection, and she wiggles against him to get herself comfortable. Derek''s heart is beating a mile a minute as he feels her stimulating him in ways he wasn''t expecting.


    Zoe is oblivious to Derek''s plight. He takes deep breaths. After a few moments he feels significantly calmer. He swallows the lump in his throat, and speaks.


    "Zoe, I think I''m in love with you." Derek confesses.


    There''s a very brief pause wherein Zoe lets out an unsurprised sigh.


    "I know, Derek. It''s pretty obvious..." Zoe replies quietly.


    Derek is blushing now as Zoe reveals the extent of her knowledge. She gently turns in his lap to face him partially. Her adorable brown eyes reflect the sunset as she looks up at Derek.


    "Was it really?" Derek asks.


    Zoe nods, giving Derek one of her heart stopping smiles.


    "Yes. Honestly it''s crazy how long it took me to notice!" Zoe replies with a giggle.


    Derek''s hand gently slides up to touch her face. Zoe lets him without hesitation, and his calloused hand gently slides across her soft cheek. His fingers trace the line of her jaw. He softly lifts her chin with his finger.


    "Not going to ask for permission?" Zoe whispers.


    Zoe''s brown eyes are taking up most of Derek''s attention as he looks at her face. He smiles at her softly spoken question, and gently brings his lips to hers. Zoe doesn''t try to pull away as her plush lips connect with his. Derek gently holds her head with his hand as he kisses her.


    Several tender kisses later, Zoe pulls her head away. Derek blinks at her in surprise.


    "Why didn''t you ask, dummy?" Zoe presses.


    Derek softly touches his own lip with a finger. He looks downright mesmerized by what just happened. He clears his throat.


    "I-I could tell you weren''t against it..." Derek stutters.


    "You should still ask for permission." Zoe chides him.


    Derek nods dumbly at her words. He''s having trouble listening with the amount of blood leaving his brain in a hurry to fuel his desire.


    Zoe shakes her head at his obvious arousal. She gently scoots closer to him and brings her lips to his in a passionate kiss. The way her soft lips practically assault Derek''s mouth excite him. Derek gently nibbles on Zoe''s puffy bottom lip. Zoe whimpers, but doesn''t resist it.


    The two of them exchange these intense kisses for several long minutes. Partway through Zoe wraps her arms around Derek''s neck, holding him close. Derek''s tongue even makes its way into Zoe''s mouth near the end. She reciprocates.


    They stop when the moon is visible in the sky. The two teenagers are out of breath. Both look around them at the darkness in mild confusion.


    "I guess we lost track of time." Derek remarks.


    "Y-Yeah, no shit." Zoe replies.

 Lust & Bloodlust

    Wind whistles through the sleepy suburban neighborhood. Crickets chirp in an unintentional chorus. The moon overhead fights with the streetlights for dominance in illumination. Two teenagers walk, sharing their warmth.


    "I haven''t been to your house in years." Zoe remarks.


    Zoe and Derek are holding hands. Derek flinches at her comment.


    "Yeah... my old man hasn''t really fixed the place up, y''know?" Derek deflects.


    Having been to Derek''s place before, Zoe understands. She doesn''t say anything for the rest of their walk. It takes a while to get across the suburbs, but they make it before Zoe''s curfew comes into effect.


    "Wow, you weren''t kidding." Zoe murmurs.


    Derek lives with his father out on the edge of town. Here not many people pass by, so they can get away with the state of their yard. Loose lumber is piled up in heaps against the house. Several old cars sit amongst the assorted garbage. They haven''t moved in decades.


    "Yeah... Let''s just head around back." Derek says bitterly.


    Zoe follows Derek''s lead as he starts to step over discarded pipes. The variety of junk is impressive. Zoe finds herself staring at a strange old sculpture when Derek gently pulls her by the hand. She resumes following him as they make their way through an old gate around the side of the house.


    If the front yard was a junkyard, the back is a junk city. There are countless overgrown patches of grass topped with piles of scrap. Rotting carboard boxes filled with destroyed books sit beside the house itself. Derek leads Zoe over to the only clear space: a few stumps fashioned into makeshift seats, and a firepit.


    "Is it this bad... inside?" Zoe asks tentatively.


    Derek doesn''t respond at first. He carefully pours some charcoal into the bottom of the firepit, and sets a few logs beside the firepit.


    "It''s much worse inside. My room is barely a bed and a dresser, and the old man has put so much of his junk in there I can hardly move." Derek gripes.


    Zoe nods in understanding. Derek''s father has always been like this, but it''s gotten worse over time. Derek previously tried to clean up after his father. He didn''t like that, so Derek had to stop.


    Derek gets the fire going. He sets a few dry branches atop the flame, and Zoe takes a seat on the cleanest stump she can find. Derek joins her after ensuring the fire will last.


    "You know it''s not your fault, right?" Zoe asks quietly.


    "I do know. I just wish I could help him somehow." Derek replies bitterly.


    Their conversation goes quiet for a long while after that. Eventually the cold gets to them, and they wind up cuddling again. Zoe''s soft warm rear rests in Derek''s lap like before. This time no kisses are exchanged as they stare at the fire.


    "You know, I think you''re definitely the biggest one." Zoe comments.


    Derek furrows his brow as he replies.


    "Nah, Jamison is hella tall. He might be as muscular, but he isn''t skinny either." Derek argues.


    "That''s not what I meant." Zoe replies.


    Tender silence covers the two of them as Derek processes what Zoe is implying. His face turns a bright tomato red. Zoe smiles to herself, and begins to wiggle her hips slowly. The sensation of Zoe''s butt grinding into his lap drives Derek wild.


    "You''ve been corrupted o-or something, Zoe." Derek comments quietly.


    Zoe replies by promptly grinding her ass into his covered bulge. The sensation of it causes Derek to grunt. He reaches forward and grabs ahold of Zoe''s decently wide hips. Zoe blushes at the sensation, and looks up at Derek. She''s giving him undeniable bedroom eyes.


    Derek''s reasoning is weakened by his arousal, and the cute girl sitting on his lap. He picks her up unceremoniously, turning her to face him. She looks at him like a startled cat. He lowers her toward the ground.


    "Tuck your legs in." Derek orders.


    Zoe obediently folds her legs under herself, so that she''ll be sitting on her shins. Derek places her on the ground in front of him. He looks down at her from above with a smile. Zoe''s cheeks flush as she realizes what kind of position they''re in.


    "Take it off." Derek points to his jeans.


    Derek watches Zoe obediently nod her head. The power dynamic between them is arousing for both teens. Zoe is relishing the situation as she carefully unbuckles Derek''s belt. The leather strap slides through the beltloops cleanly, and she sets it aside.


    Zoe''s hands shake ever so slightly with excitement as she grips the hem of his shorts. She pulls them down slowly, making eye contact with Derek as she does so.


    The impressive bulge in Derek''s boxers outclasses anything Zoe has been exposed to. Her eyes widen a little as she carefully slides her hand around the shape of Derek''s covered erection. The heat radiating off it is intense, and the musky smell of it is downright intoxicating. Zoe let''s her urges take over, pressing her cheek against Derek''s crotch with a greedy glint in her brown eyes.


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    "Woah..." Derek comments.


    Derek watches Zoe nuzzle her face against his bulge, his surprise evident on his face. Zoe isn''t paying him any mind as she squishes her pale cheek against his covered shaft. She can feel it pulse through the sheer fabric of his boxers.


    Zoe doesn''t miss a beat as she deftly pulls Derek''s boxers down his muscular thighs. The thick angry length slaps Zoe on the forehead as she frees it. Derek blushes at the lewd face Zoe is making.


    Derek''s shaft tastes like it smells. A musky thing that Zoe struggles to fit her plush lips around. Once she''s got Derek between her lips, she eagerly starts to lick and suck. She is inexperienced, so it''s not as stimulating as Derek wants.


    "...Relax your face for a sec, Bunny." Derek interrupt her.


    Zoe complies, and Derek carefully gathers her lengthy dark hair in his hands. Once her mane is in his grip, he pulls her head forward slightly, and begings thrusting. The sensation is immensely better.


    Derek is relishing the warmth and pressure of Zoe''s mouth. Meanwhile, Zoe is doing her best not to choke as he uses her face for his own pleasure. Tears gather at the corners of her brown eyes as she looks up helplessly at Derek.


    The speed of Derek''s hips increases gradually. Zoe can feel her jaw ache slightly as Derek stuffs her throat full. He''s using her like a sex toy, yet Zoe can''t bring herself to be upset about it.


    "Fuck- this feels amazing!" Derek gasps.


    Derek is getting less consistent with his motions. The face he is making reflects ecstacy, and he releases.


    Zoe''s eyes widen as she feels hot fluid paint the back of her throat. Some of it inevitably pools onto her tongue as Derek spasms. The taste isn''t bad, but it''s not delicious either. Zoe''s face is beet red as she swallows Derek''s seed.


    Derek launches several ropes of the stuff into Zoe''s mouth before finally slowing down. His face is just as flushed as Zoe''s. He pulls himself out of Zoe''s mouth, reluctantly.


    The two teenagers sit there in the firelight panting for several long moments. The quiet crackling of the flame and their heavy breathing form an intimate atmosphere. Derek sits down on his seat, Zoe sits on him.


    "That was... incredible." Derek mutters.


    Zoe blushes further at his words. She nods her agreement as her phone starts to buzz suddenly. She pulls it out, seeing a call from her mother.


    "Oh no. I gotta take this!" Zoe exclaims.


    Derek watches her answer the call. She puts her phone to her ear.


    "Zoe, are you okay? It''s almost an hour past your curfew." Zoe''s mother asks.


    "Y-Yes Mom! I was just hanging out with Derek and lost track of time..." Zoe replies.


    There''s a brief silence.


    "...Derek, bring my daughter home." Zoe''s mother suddenly says.


    Derek blinks in surprise, but doesn''t question how she knew he would hear. He leans slightly forward to answer her.


    "...Will do, Mrs. Kim." Derek replies.


    Zoe is blushing bright red as she listens for her mother''s words.


    "Good. We''re going to have a little talk about... boys. When you get home, I mean." Zoe''s mother says threateningly.


    "Y-Yes Mom..." Zoe squeaks.


    "I''ll see you soon, love you." Zoe''s mother says, her tone softer.


    "Love you too Mom!" Zoe replies in kind.


    The call ends. Derek picks Zoe up and sets her down beside him as he adjusts his clothing. He offers Zoe his hand, and she takes it.


    ~


    The quiet chirping of crickets accompanies a boy as he stalks down the sidewalk. His black hood is pulled up to hide his face. The quiet thump of his boots on the sidewalk announces his approach. The boy holds a knife in one hand.


    He flicks the blade out, and then slips it back into itself. The moonlight glimmers off the knife each time he moves it. The boy''s dark hollow eyes stare at the knife, full of adoration.


    "I think my mom is gonna kill me..." Someone complains.


    The hooded boy stops walking. He stands perfectly still, bathed in shadows. Two unfamiliar teens roughly his age pass by ahead of him, not noticing him. One is a rather bulky looking meathead, and the other...


    Beautiful. The short dark haired girl walking alongside the jock is simply beautiful. The way her hair falls down her back. The way her curves fit into her clothes. The adorable little smile adorning her pale features.


    "I''m sure she''ll forgive you, Bunny." The jock laughs.


    The beautiful girl playfully shoves the jock. He hardly moves from her efforts, and the two of them continue walking. They''re holding hands.


    Infuriating. The boy''s hands begin to tremble. He feels the knife in his hand, heavier than lead. Something about seeing her with that meathead rubs him the wrong way. He wants to put a stop to it. He needs to put a stop to it.


    One step. Two steps. He''s walking toward the couple with careful steps. His books make no sound as he creeps closer and closer to the pair. His dark empty eyes glare at the muscular boy as he nears him. The hand holding the knife is shaking erratically now.


    ~


    "Did you hear something..?" Zoe asks.


    Derek turns, looking around the empty street. He frowns at the abnormal quiet. Something about it feels off, but he can''t figure out what. Derek turns back to Zoe and gently pushes her along. He keeps her ahead of him as goosebumps erupt all over his neck.


    "There''s nothing. Let''s hurry and get you home." Derek urges her.


    It only takes a few more minutes to reach Zoe''s home. Derek keeps his ears piqued for anything strange, but he only hears the thump of their footsteps.


    "I had a great time..." Zoe says softly.


    Derek smiles at her bashful look. He gently kisses her on the forehead.


    "I did too. Goodnight, Zoe." Derek replies.


    Zoe slips into her home with a little wave. Derek turns around and starts walking home before Zoe''s parents can give him an earful. The sound of the crickets relaxes Derek as he walks home alone. The yellow streetlights clash with the bright white moon overhead.


    Dunno why I was so nervous earlier.


    Derek sighs to himself as he walks. The sound of his sneakers scraping on the concrete is interspersed with the thump of boots on the sidewalk. Derek looks up at the stars, thinking about Zoe. He stops walking.


    Wait. What is that thumping sound?


    The cold tingle of goosebumps on the back of Derek''s neck is all the warning he gets before someone attacks him. He ducks just in time to dodge a knife aimed for his jugular. Derek''s heart is pounding as he steps away from his attacker.


    "What the fuck?! Back off, psycho!" Derek shouts angrily.


    Strangely enough the hooded boy doesn''t respond. His hands are shaking as he lunges for Derek for a second time. The glimmering knife in the boy''s hands is quivering as it aims for Derek''s chest. Derek attempts to dodge.


    The sting of the knife cutting into his bicep elicits a shout of pain from Derek. He raises his other arm to return the favor. The hooded boy''s head snaps to the side as Derek''s fist impacts him in the ear. The boy grunts quietly, and stumbles back away from Derek.


    "I''ll fucking kill you! Back off!" Derek shouts, trying to intimidate his attacker.


    Derek holds back a sigh of relief as the hooded knife wielder turns tail and runs into the night. The blood loss is making Derek dizzy, so he stumbles his way toward Zoe''s house.


    Fuck. Why did he attack me?

 Psycho With A Knife [33]

    Zoe''s mother has her arms crossed as she looks pointedly at her daughter. Zoe is looking up at her sheepishly. Her eyes reflect shame.


    "So, are you going to explain yourself, young lady?" Zoe''s mother asks sharply.


    "I-I was just hanging out with Derek-" Zoe mumbles.


    "At this hour?" Zoe''s mother cuts her off.


    Zoe''s mother shoots her a probing glare. Zoe blushes slightly at her mother''s implications. Zoe shrinks back in her seat as her mother shakes her head in exasperation. She gets up from her chair and walks over to Zoe. Zoe blinks as her mother gently hugs her.


    "M-Mom?" Zoe questions.


    "I''m not ready for you to grow up, honey." Zoe''s mother sighs.


    Zoe reciprocates her mother''s embrace. The two women hug for several long moments. Zoe can feel the concern and worry wafting off her mother as they separate. The bittersweet smile she gives Zoe is much too sad.


    "I''m still going to be your daughter, Mom." Zoe assures her.


    "I know, honey." Zoe''s mother replies.


    There''s a quiet moment where the two of them look at one another. Then Zoe''s mother clears her throat, advising her daughter.


    "Just make sure he uses a condom." She suggests.


    Zoe''s face turns red as she shrinks into her chair. Her hands cover her face in embarrassment.


    Zoe''s mother laughs at her reaction. She''s about to say something when a sound interrupts their conversation.


    Knock knock knock.


    The two of them look at the door. Zoe''s mother walks over to the door, checking through the peephole. She wears a complicated expression as she steps back from the peephole. Zoe turns to look as her mother unlocks the door.


    "Zoe, could you head upstairs?" Zoe''s mother asks.


    Zoe nods hesitantly. She scampers away to her room whilst her mother opens the door.


    ~


    Derek is standing on the porch with blood pouring from his arm. The athletic boy''s face is pale, and he''s gritting his teeth. Miranda quickly ushers him inside. She walks into the kitchen to grab some medical supplies. Derek slumps into a chair at the dining table.


    "What happened?" Miranda asks.


    Miranda brings over the first aid kit, setting it on the table. She starts by cleaning his wound with some wipes. Derek winces at the sting of alcohol on his wound.


    "Some psycho attacked me on my way home... with a knife." Derek explains through gritted teeth.


    Derek keeps his arm still as Miranda bandages his wound. The boy won''t be using this arm for a little while. Miranda turns to look at his pale complexion. She quickly moves back to the kitchen to get him some water.


    "Did you get a look at his face?" Miranda questions.


    She sets the glass of water in front of Derek. He uses his good arm to pick up the water and take a few drinks. He shakes his head.


    "I didn''t. He attacked on a dark stretch of road." Derek replies bitterly.


    Miranda rubs her head with her hand. The thought of some crazy person stabbing one of Zoe''s friends is deeply unsettling. She turns her gaze to look at Derek. He''s not doing great, but he is stable for now. She pulls out her cellphone.


    "Is your dad home? I can take you to the hospital if he isn''t." She asks.


    Derek''s expression sours at the mention of his father. He shakes his head after hesitating for a few moments. Miranda dials her husband''s number, waiting for him to pick up.


    It only takes a few rings.


    "Hello, something wrong?" Mason greets.


    "Yes, actually. Derek''s been stabbed, and I need to bring him to the hospital." Miranda explains quickly.


    Mason processes her words for a moment, and then speaks.


    "Okay. I''ll be home soon, just make sure you lock everything up and tell Zoe to be extra careful." Mason replies.


    "Alright... Love you." Miranda says softly.


    "Love you too." Mason replies.


    Miranda ends the call, pocketing her phone. Derek is looking a little better now, but he''s still got a pretty bad laceration beneath those bandages.


    "Zoe! Come downstairs!" Miranda shouts.


    The pitter patter of her daughter''s feet grabs Derek''s attention. He straightens up his posture and does his best to look okay. Zoe glides down the stairs with a curious expression. She blushes upon seeing Derek.


    "W-Why is Derek here?" Zoe asks.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Zoe then notices the bandages and the state of Derek after a second look. She rushes over to him with concern darkening her features.


    "He was attacked." Miranda says seriously.


    "Attacked..?" Zoe questions aloud.


    "It was some psycho with a knife... I got him good, but he still stabbed me." Derek explains.


    Derek looks up at her with a guilty expression. His eyes widen as Zoe''s complexion turns pale, and he quickly uses his good arm to support her as she nearly faints. Miranda rushes over to check on her daughter.


    "I-I''m okay. Just... That''s a lot." Zoe mumbles weakly.


    Miranda curses inwardly as she leaves Derek to comfort Zoe. She quickly double checks all the doors and windows are locked up tight. When she finishes that, Zoe is looking better.


    "Zoe I have to take him to a hospital. Can you handle staying here and watching the house?" Miranda asks carefully.


    There''s some fear in Zoe''s brown eyes. She takes a deep breath, and looks up at her mother.


    "Yes. I can do it." Zoe affirms.


    Miranda pulls her daughter into the second hug of the evening. This embrace is much tighter. The two women separate, and Zoe helps Derek stand up. Miranda starts walking to the door. She notices Zoe and Derek quickly hugging out of the corner of her eye. It brings a smile to her face.


    "You ready to go, Derek?" Miranda asks.


    "Yes, Mrs. Kim." Derek replies stiffly.


    Derek walks over to her with Zoe in tow. Miranda opens the door and steps outside cautiously. There''s no sign of anyone on the well lit front porch. Derek steps out behind her. Zoe peeks outside from the doorway.


    "Keep it all locked tight. Don''t open the door for anyone. Your father is on his way, so just sit tight. Ok?" Miranda reminds her daughter.


    Zoe nods softly in acknowledgement. Miranda waits as Zoe shuts and locks the front door.


    Derek and Miranda move to the car. The shadows outside look a little darker to Miranda. She unlocks her car. Derek hops into the passenger seat, and they set off for the hospital.


    ~


    Tracy''s doom scrolling is interrupted by a notification. She looks at the pop up from her messaging app, and reluctantly taps on it. It''s a message from Derek.


    Derek: I just got stabbed lmao


    Tracy: what?


    Derek: I seriously got attacked by some creep omw home. look


    > View Attachment


    The picture Derek sent with his message shows the bandaged wound and an unfamiliar car''s interior. Derek looks a little pale, and there''s blood staining the bandages. Tracy sits up, quickly replying to Derek''s message.


    Tracy: Did he try to rob you??? wtf that''s crazy


    Derek: Nah he tried to kill me. Aimed for my neck the first time, but I dodged it


    Tracy: That''s insane. have you told Zoe?


    Derek: Sort of. I was by her place so I got patched up by her mom. She''s taking me to the hospital.


    Tracy: Damn.


    Derek: I gotta go, we''re pulling into the parking lot


    Tracy sighs, putting her phone on her nightstand. Stabbings and assaults are the type of thing that happens in big cities. You don''t hear about them in semi-rural places like Witchburrow. Then again, Witchburrow is big for a rural town.


    I hope Zoe stays safe.


    The thought of Zoe brings a bittersweet smile to Tracy''s face. She rolls over to face her window. Her eyes rest on the crescent moon outside. Tracy wonders if Zoe is looking at that same moon right now.


    ~


    Zoe wakes from a nightmare with a start. She takes deep breathes in an effort to calm down. She can''t remember what her dream was about. Zoe reminds herself it wasn''t real.


    It''s just a nightmare.


    I''m okay.


    Having calmed down, Zoe looks at herself. She''s covered in a thin sheen of sweat, her body has developed rapidly once again. She blushes at the sight of her glistening body.


    Damn I''m hot...


    The shape of Zoe''s original body has certainly improved with the effects of the estrogen. The round shape of her hips. The heavy mounds adorning her chest. The squishy softness of her rear. It all feels so satisfyingly feminine!


    Zoe gets out of her bed. The nude girl walks over and stands in front of her closet mirror. Her eyes trace her new figure. Zoe turns, grabbing her phone off her nightstand. The urge to take pictures of herself overcomes her.


    A menagerie of lewd selfies are taken. Each one brings a proud smirk to Zoe''s face as she reviews them. She almost wants to try taking videos of her body, but she''s interrupted.


    "Zoe, Breakfast!" Zoe''s mother shouts from downstairs.


    Zoe blushes self consciously at the sound of her mother''s voice. She quickly gets herself dressed in some gender neutral clothing. The outfit doesn''t say ''boy'' or ''girl'' exactly. It''s somewhere in the middle of those two.


    The door swings open at Zoe''s behest. The scent of eggs and bacon urges her down the stairs. She sees her mother carefully sipping her coffee as she makes for the door.


    "Make sure you walk with a friend coming home, honey!" Zoe''s mother reminds her.


    "I know, Mom! I won''t forget." Zoe replies.


    Zoe''s mother nods and shuts the door behind her. She has an early shift today, so the rush is understandable. Zoe plates herself some food and takes a seat at the dining table. The eggs are nice and fluffy; The bacon is perfectly crispy.


    The buzz of a notification draw''s Zoe''s attention to her phone. She pulls it out and checks her messages. There''s a few in the mini group chat, containing Derek, Tracy, and Zoe.


    Derek: I''m all better!


    Tracy: That was fast?


    Derek: OK well I can''t use my arm much, but I''m good otherwise


    Tracy: lol


    Zoe: You''d better not use it! Gotta heal!!


    Derek: Yeah yeah, I know


    Zoe: I''m serious >:(


    The messages peter out. Zoe''s thoughts return to the pictures she took upstairs. A dangerous train of thought ensues.


    What''s stopping her form sharing those lewd pictures? Why shouldn''t she? She''s an adult.


    Zoe taps the attach picture option. She selects one of the pictures she took earlier, and tastefully censors parts of it before sending it into the mini group chat.


    Zoe: Thoughts?


    > View Attachment


    There''s a pause after she sends it. Zoe''s anxiety gradually builds up. Then someone finally replies. Relief washes away that anxiety.


    Derek: Holy fuck you''re hot


    Tracy: For once I agree with him :o


    Zoe''s face lights up at the praise. She glances at the time. She stands up, grabbing her backpack. She double checks she has her house key before making her way to the door.


    The sound of birdsong greets her when she steps outside. The sunlight and other teenagers walking along the sidewalk put her mind at ease. Nothing bad happens in broad daylight, right?


    ~


    There that girl is again!


    It''s strange how much taller she looks in the daylight, but it''s definitely her. The boy watches her leave her house. The smile she has on her face is positively glowing. He starts walking toward her. He can hardly contain his excitement as he gets closer to her.


    I can''t wait to talk to her.


    The boy''s eyes flicker from her to other passerby. He keeps walking. Faster. Closer.


    She''ll love me!


    The girl is facing away from him as he approaches. He can practically taste her lips on his already. The scent of her shampoo. The smell of her sheets. His mind is wandering as he gets within a few paces of his sweetheart.


    I love you.


    ~


    Zoe turns to look over her shoulder. She has goosebumps on her neck. It feels like someone is watching her. She scans her surroundings for the source of this feeling.


    There is nobody suspicious. Just a couple of other students a good distance from her.


    Weird...


    She turns to look back at the school, and keeps walking. The sound of a car passing catches her attention. She looks at it bitterly. Zoe recognizes it as the one that dropped off Jamison. Zoe scoffs, ignoring both the lingering sensation of being watched and Jamison''s vehicle.

 The Incident [34]

    Zoe blinks dully as Mrs. Johnson goes over the most recent chapter. They''re getting close to the end of the book. Zoe read ahead and already finished the whole thing. Frankly, she regrets doing it. Mrs. Johnson notices Zoe''s bored expression.


    "Kim, why don''t you tell us what chapter thirty three means for the story as a whole?" Mrs. Johnson asks.


    The question doesn''t phase Zoe. She sits up a little straighter to appear as if she was paying attention the whole time.


    "Chapter thirty three introduces a proper antagonist to the story and ups the stakes. For the story as a whole, this means it''s approaching the climax." Zoe explains.


    Mrs. Johnson smiles at Zoe''s answer.


    "Exactly. Great job, Kim." Mrs. Johnson praises.


    Zoe nods in acknowledgment.


    The rest of the chapter review goes by without issue, and Mrs. Johnson finally allows them a brief reprieve from schoolwork.


    "You doing okay?" Tracy asks.


    Tracy has a look of concern clouding her expression. Her normally easygoing demeanor in class is nowhere to be seen. Zoe smiles to show she''s fine, nodding.


    "Of course! It was Derek who had to go to a hospital, not me." Zoe replies.


    "I know, but he''s tough." Tracy says.


    "True. I think in a horror movie he''d just kick the killer''s ass, hehe." Zoe giggles.


    Zoe''s adorable giggle draws a few perplexed looks from her classmates. Tracy smirks at Zoe, who is blushing sheepishly. Thankfully for Zoe, her peers lose interest almost immediately.


    "I asked because I was worried you''d be targeted." Tracy says quietly.


    "Me? Why would someone want to attack me?" Zoe questions.


    Tracy cringes at the naivety of her friend. Some people are just too pure for this world.


    "Well, why would someone want to attack Derek?" Tracy retorts.


    Zoe finally realizes Tracy''s point. She thinks to herself, her nose scrunching up slightly as she considers Derek''s personality. He can certainly get into trouble, and he does piss people off quite often.


    "He is kind of a jerk, sometimes." Zoe offers.


    "Okay, true, but not enough to make someone want to kill him." Tracy argues.


    "Yeah..." Zoe trails off.


    Tracy watches Zoe as the girl gets lost in thought. Oh what she would give just to know what Zoe is thinking. Every time that adorable little face makes a confused expression Tracy nearly squeals.


    I''ve got it bad, huh?


    Zoe finally stops her quiet contemplation. She turns to Zoe with an uncertain expression.


    "I did feel like I was being watched this morning, and I never get that feeling." Zoe admits.


    Goosebumps go up on Tracy''s arms as she processes Zoe''s words. Someone looking at her Zoe? With what happened to Derek, Tracy doesn''t trust Witchburrow''s security. She gently grabs Zoe''s hand, holding it and making eye contact.


    "Where were you walking? Was there anyone around?" Tracy asks, her voice low.


    Zoe blinks, looking surprised by Tracy''s reaction.


    "I-I was just on my way to school. It was the normal route down Hart Street... I didn''t see anybody suspicious, just a bunch of other high schoolers." Zoe replies.


    Tracy pouts in frustration. She glances down at Zoe''s hands before looking back up at her face. She squeezes Zoe''s hand in an attempt to convey her support.


    "I''ll walk with you from now on." Tracy promises.


    The bell rings. Zoe is still coming up with a reply when Tracy pulls away to grab her bag. Their classmates are out in a hurry. Zoe grabs her own bag, and follows Tracy out of the classroom. Tracy has this unfamiliar look of determination on her face.


    "T-Tracy you don''t have to. I''ll be fine!" Zoe pleads.


    "You? Fine? Bunny, you''re as helpless as a rabbit." Tracy replies.


    Zoe''s cheeks burn scarlet as they walk through the corridor. It takes her a little while to come up with a good comeback. They''re entering the cafeteria when Zoe finally has a reply in mind.


    "What about you? You shouldn''t be out alone either!" Zoe argues.


    "Me? I work out, at least." Tracy replies with a shrug.


    Tracy has a good point. The two girls approach the lunch line.


    Reminded of Tracy''s athleticism, Zoe takes the opportunity to let her eyes wander. The swell of Tracy''s firm butt in her leggings is enough to bring a fresh blush to Zoe''s face. The muscled shape of Tracy''s legs also appeal to Zoe.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    "Even at school?" Tracy taunts.


    Zoe''s face burns a little hotter as she''s caught in the act. She whips her head around to look over her shoulder. Tracy laughs at Zoe''s poor attempt to avoid blame.


    "It''s okay to stare, Bunny." Tracy assures.


    "W-Whatever, I wasn''t staring." Zoe replies.


    Tracy shakes her head at Zoe''s unconvincing denial. The two girls move with the lunch line, and get their helpings of school food. It''s some kind of pasta. An unidentifiable pasta. Tracy is wishing she brought something from home.


    Zoe leads the way to the usual lunch table. She can''t help but frown at how empty it looks. Jamison is still living like a pompous rich asshole. Derek isn''t at school due to his injury. The only boy at the table is Theo. He''s deep in some sort of workbook, and doesn''t have a lunch tray.


    "Hey, Theo." Zoe greets.


    Theo doesn''t even look up as she speaks. Zoe takes her seat. Tracy sits beside her.


    "What happened to that douche?" Theo suddenly asks.


    Tracy and Zoe look at one another. Nobody told Theo about what happened yesterday. Zoe swallows a bite of pasta she just took, and speaks.


    "Derek was attacked by someone last night, and got stabbed." Zoe explains.


    "Really?" Theo asks again.


    Zoe nods, having witnessed the bandaged wound.


    "Yes, really. Someone with a knife just randomly tried to kill him!" Zoe exclaims.


    "He probably deserved it." Theo mumbles.


    Tracy and Zoe look at Theo in surprise. His uncharacteristically cruel statement hangs in the air for a while, and then Theo gets up without an explanation. The bespectacled boy leaves the lunch table even earlier than he did yesterday.


    "What was that about?" Tracy questions.


    "I don''t know? I mean, they bickered, but nothing that serious..?" Zoe replies uncertainly.


    ~


    Theo''s mood has gone sour these past few days. He can''t focus on anything lately, and it''s just gotten worse with time. It all started when the group was kicked out of Jamison''s house.


    I shouldn''t be so off my game.


    The thought of Jamison worsens Theo''s mood. He squeezes his binder a little tighter, and grits his teeth. He''s normally so logical. Theo is supposed to be the smart one.


    "She ignored me..." Someone mutters.


    Theo glances at the speaker as they pass in the hall. It''s an unfamiliar boy wearing dark clothing and combat boots. Theo isn''t one to judge, but the way the boy is talking to himself paints a dark picture. Theo turns away from the odd boy.


    The memory of Zoe''s surprised face resurfaces. Theo knows he went overboard with his response, but Derek has just been acting like nothing is wrong. He keeps up that confident attitude even though their childhood friend is treating them like they don''t exist!


    It''s just so infuriating!


    Theo finally loses his temper and nearly throws his binder to the ground. He stops himself, and takes a few deep breathes.


    I just need to calm down.


    The memories of the past few days flow through Theo like water. He gradually lets go of the emotions that had been building up in him, and wipes away a few tears. Theo goes to wipe off his glasses, but stops midway.


    Wait. What was that guy holding?


    Theo''s encounter with the strange boy replays in his head. That wasn''t a pen or pencil in that boy''s hand. He was holding a knife. The blade was reflecting the light, and he was flipping the blade in and out of the handle.


    Shit.


    ~


    The boy finally mustered the courage to talk to his beloved, yet she ignored him. His words might have been a little bit quiet. He may have hid behind someone.


    If she really loved me, she would have heard me anyways!


    Cold steel swings out of the knife''s handle. The boy flicks the blade casually in and out. The swish of the metal cutting through the air is overpowered by the thump of the boy''s combat boots. He stops.


    There she is.


    The boy squints his empty black eyes at the girl in question. She''s sitting at a lunch table in the cafeteria, and talking to some background character. The boy clicks his tongue.


    Too bad she doesn''t love me.


    His beloved may be beautiful and pure, but she isn''t free of blame. The boy flicks his knife out, and enters the lunchroom. The boy steps through the cafeteria slowly. His path brings him closer to his failed lover, yet nobody notices his intention.


    The knife at his side goes unnoticed by the teenagers eating and chatting. Nobody pays attention to someone like the boy. Not even his beloved.


    You truly were so pretty, my lover.


    The boy is just a few steps away now. He steps up right behind her without her taking any notice. Someone sitting beside the girl does notice him, but she is slow to react.


    Cold steel flashes as the boy swings his knife in a quick subtle motion.


    Goodbye, Zoe.


    ~


    Zoe feels goosebumps raising on the back of her neck. Before she can turn around, she hears a loud howl of pain.


    "Ahg-ga-g!"


    The lunchroom erupts with confusion as Zoe turns to face the source of the shout. There''s a boy wearing dark clothes, collapsed on the floor. He''s holding a knife in one hand. He''s grimacing as if in immense pain.


    "He''s got a knife!" Someone shouts.


    Zoe feels Tracy pull her up and out of her chair. Zoe''s eyes are wide as she watches several of the guys grab and restrain the strange boy. Tracy is still moving, carrying Zoe out of the cafeteria. Zoe turns to look at Tracy.


    "Are you ok?" Zoe asks.


    Tracy looks downright terrified. The girl''s complexion is snow white, and she''s got a death grip on Zoe. Tracy glances up at Zoe as if barely having heard her.


    "W-What? Am I ok?" Tracy questions.


    "Yeah, you look... awful." Zoe mumbles.


    Zoe watches Tracy finally smile. She takes a deep breath, and sets Zoe back down on the ground.


    "I''m just shaken up is all... You... He almost stabbed you." Tracy explains weakly.


    Realization dawns on Zoe. She was almost stabbed just then. She could have died!


    "I-I didn''t even notice..." Zoe whispers.


    Tracy nods at Zoe''s words. They''re both quiet for a moment. Zoe breaks the moment by reaching out and embracing Tracy. The two girls cry in each other''s shoulders, albeit Tracy is the one sobbing her heart out.


    Eventually they separate.


    "I''ll walk with you everywhere." Tracy reaffirms her earlier promise.


    "Y-Yeah, no objections." Zoe replies softly.


    The two girls are approached by a teacher not long after that.


    ~


    "My name is Officer O''Brian, what''s yours?" Officer O''Brian greets.


    Tracy reminds herself he''s here to help, and replies.


    "My name is Tracy." Tracy introduces herself.


    Officer O''Brian writes something down in his little notepad.


    "Alright, Tracy. You were present during today''s incident, correct?" Officer O''Brian clarifies.


    "Yes, I was. I saw him try to stab Z- Kim. In the back." Tracy replies.


    If he notices anything, he doesn''t say it. Officer O''Brian is quick to continue the questioning.


    "And did you see Mr. Daniels attack Mr. Kim?" Officer O''Brian asks.


    Tracy cringes at the unintentional misgendering, but nods her confirmation.


    "I need verbal confirmation, please." Officer O''Brian insist.


    "Yes, I saw him attack Kim." Tracy states.


    Officer O''Brian writes down some more in his notepad.


    "And, where did he try to stab Mr. Kim, exactly?" Officer O''Brian asks.


    Tracy furrows her brow, and answers after thinking  back to the incident.


    "He was going for Kim''s neck..." Tracy says.


    Officer O''Brian starts writing more down, and Tracy''s patience finally gives out. She lets out a dramatic sigh. Her arms cross over her chest.


    "Officer, why do you need to ask me? We have security cameras." Tracy points out.


    This brings a frown to the officer''s face, but he doesn''t seem displeased with Tracy. Rather he just seems irritated by some other inconvenience.


    "That''s the thing, the cameras are fried." Officer O''Brian admits.


    Tracy blinks in surprise. She didn''t pin that creep as the careful type, but he prepared this extensively? Weird how he did all that work only to try and stab someone in front of a crowd of teenagers. Why go through all that work?


    Unless it wasn''t him?

 Planning [35]

    The suburbs are relatively quiet now. There are hardly any cars, and most of the residents are in their homes. The streetlights are flickering on as the sun sets. One bespectacled boy walks home alone. His hands are stuffed into his pockets.


    His sneakers scrape along the sidewalk as he approaches a particular house. The neat-looking home is quiet, its windows darkened. The boy pulls out his house key and unlocks the door. He enters, and locks the door behind him.


    Fuck, that was way too close!


    Theo takes a deep shaky breath. He''s leaning against the locked front door, and shuts his eyes as if trying to block out the visions of Zoe nearly being stabbed. Theo made it in time. Barely.


    I need to fix this.


    Walking toward the stairs, Theo starts to pull things from his pockets. First out comes the taser he used to incapacitate the psycho who attacked Zoe. He grips it firmly as he ascends the stairs. There''s nobody here, but Theo is on edge.


    He relaxes slightly after entering his bedroom. The tidy space is devoid of intruders, and everything is as it should be. He places his taser on his desk.


    First, I need a plan.


    Theo stalks over to the corkboard with a purpose. He pulls away the poster covering his questionable hobby. Pictures of Zoe and notes regarding her magical abilities adorn the corkboard. Theo carefully pulls out the tacks keeping these pictures and papers in place. He neatly stores everything in his desk, and turns back to the now-empty cork board.


    Pictures aren''t really an option, so Theo settles for quick sketches of the important points. He sketches a picture of the knife-wielder''s face. Then a picture of the knife itself. He can''t quite recall all the details, but it''s good enough.


    Theo absentmindedly pulls another tool from his pocket. The high-power laser pointer he used to disable the school security cameras. He couldn''t risk someone investigating him or how he acquired his tools.


    Just who is this guy?


    I''ve never noticed him before...


    The sketch of the attacker and his weapon are then pinned upon the cork board. They''re connected by a string of yarn. Theo moves on to sketching Derek, and Derek''s wound. He hasn''t actually seen the wound, but that''s not what''s important.


    Theo pins up Derek and his wound on the board, connecting the wound with a string to the knife the attacker used. This connection is obvious enough.


    To finish his points, Theo sketches a picture of Zoe and her near-miss with the attacker. He pins the picture of Zoe and connects her to the incident. He then connects the incident with the psycho''s knife using another length of yarn.


    What is this guy''s motivation?


    Does he just want violence?


    Theo finally pulls out his cellphone. He doesn''t want to have to do this, but Zoe''s safety is at stake. He dials Jamison''s number. It begins to ring. Once. Twice. He picks up--


    "What do you want?" Jamison asks coldly.


    "I need your cooperation," Theo replies vaguely.


    The sound of Jamison taking a deep breath comes through the phone.


    "With what, Theodore?" Jamison questions.


    "I need to acquire some more tools, and fast."


    The tone of the conversation shifts immediately. Jamison''s thinly veiled frustration is now completely unfiltered.


    "You want me to get you some more toys? Already?" Jamison scoffs.


    "They''re tools, not toys. I''ll pay market price," Theo adds.


    "Look, you pulled that taser I got you on me the other day. Why should I help you?" Jamison retorts.


    Theo purses his lips in contemplation. He hadn''t been thinking straight when he threatened his friends with the taser, but it wasn''t as if they were in their right minds either. They can all get a bit crazy when it comes to Zoe.


    Oh wait, that''s it.


    "Zoe is in danger," Theo warns.


    "What? Is she hurt? Where is she?" Jamison''s facade crumbles instantly.


    Jamison''s shift in attitude brings a smug smile to Theo''s face. He stifles a chuckle at his friend''s expense, and starts talking.


    ~


    Zoe''s eyes follow her feet as she walks home. Nothing really feels real after the incident. A gentle shake from Tracy brings her attention up from the ground. Tracy is saying something, but she can''t hear her. It''s like she''s someplace else.


    "Zoe? Are you okay?" Tracy asks, repeating herself.


    The dry sensation in Zoe''s mouth leaves her struggling for words. She moves her tongue around in her mouth as if to remedy the issue, and speaks.


    "Y-Yeah. I''m just out of it," Zoe replies hoarsely.


    "I can tell. Let''s get you home, okay?" Tracy urges.


    Tracy gently grabs ahold of Zoe''s hand. The warmth radiating from Tracy''s hand is comforting. Zoe can feel herself returning to the present as Tracy guides her along the sidewalk.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Gradually, Zoe notices the little things around her. The birds chirping softly. The distant sounds of cars driving along roads. The smell of freshly cut grass. Zoe feels like things are real again.


    "Thank you, Tracy," Zoe says suddenly.


    Tracy turns to give Zoe a slight smile. Zoe returns the expression, and suddenly leans forward to peck Tracy on the lips. The action leaves Tracy stunned.


    "You must be feeling better..." Tracy murmurs.


    Zoe giggles, a light airy sound that betrays her uplifted mood.


    "Yeah, I guess so. All thanks to you!" Zoe replies.


    Tracy can¡¯t help herself. When a girl is this adorably sweet, you just have to take a bite out of her. Zoe squeaks as Tracy suddenly pulls her in for a kiss.


    This kiss is much more passionate than the first. Right in the middle of the sidewalk, the two girls assault one another''s lips. The intimate exchange ends when Tracy manages to tamp down her raging desires, and pull her head away from Zoe''s.


    "Ha... Whoops." Tracy puffs.


    Zoe is blushing a bright shade of red as she looks at Tracy. Her brown doe eyes are almost enough to lure Tracy back in for some more, but she thinks better of it.


    "I-I really need to get you home, Zoe," Tracy stutters.


    "...True. Let''s just continue this ''conversation'' another time," Zoe replies with a mischievous giggle.


    Zoe''s hand slips into Tracy''s as the girls finish their walk to Zoe''s house. They walk side by side down the sidewalk. The occasional sound of a dog barking is interspersed with the noise of cars driving by. Zoe feels safe here.


    ~


    Theo glances over his shoulder as he approaches Derek''s home. The sunlight peeks out over the tops of the surrounding houses, illuminating Derek''s house with an orange glow. Theo approaches the side gate, letting himself in without issue.


    Beyond the gate is a plethora of useless junk set aside for some unknown purpose. Theo weaves his way through the garbage with his binder held close to his chest. The shadow of the house casts an eerie darkness over the back yard.


    Derek is sitting by the firepit, in his usual seat. The well-built boy has some bandages wrapped around his injury. He''s staring into the firepit with a complicated expression. The glowing coals in the firepit offer very little warmth.


    "Are you sure this will work?" Derek suddenly asks.


    Theo takes a seat. He adjusts his glasses with his free hand, and opens his binder.


    "Positive," Theo replies.


    The quiet sound of birds crowing fills the gap in their conversation.


    "It feels too risky, Theodore."


    Theo turns to a page depicting a building''s floor plan. The schematics for a particular establishment. He traces a dashed line drawn in red ink with his finger.


    "It won''t be risky, I''ve accounted for everything."


    Derek huffs, sitting up straight for a moment. He flexes his arms, and winces while moving the injured arm. Theo watches him from the corner of his eye.


    "You said the wound wouldn''t be an issue, Derek?" Theo questions.


    "It won''t be. I''m fine."


    Theo glances over his shoulder, looking at the gate. The gate opens as if on cue. Jamison steps through, wearing some of the high end branded clothing his father bought for him.


    "Damn, trust fund baby decided to show up." Derek laughs.


    Jamison steps around the scattered garbage without missing a beat. He pulls off his sunglasses, pocketing them with a slight blush. He takes a seat. The sheepish look on his face says it all.


    "Look, I don''t like it either..." Jamison mutters.


    Derek scoffs, narrowing his eyes at Jamison.


    "Sure. If you don''t like it, then stand up to your old man."


    "I can''t do that. I''m all he has left, you know?"


    Their conversation dies at that. Derek sucks in a breath. Theo clears his throat, bringing up the matter that''s brought them together.


    "Let''s discuss the plan, if you don''t mind?" Theo urges.


    Jamison and Derek give Theo their full attention. The bespectacled boy holds up his binder, showing them the schematic sketched out on lined paper. There are multiple colored lines with arrows. One red line, another blue, and the last being green.


    "Derek, you''re red. I''m blue. Jamison is green. Got it?"


    "Why do I have to be red?"


    Theo blinks, giving Derek a pointed look.


    "It''s not really important which of us is which color."


    "Still, I''d prefer to be orange or yellow."


    Theo ignores Derek''s suggestion, and begins to break down the plan.


    "First, Jamison will enter the building and make a withdrawal for as much money as he can possibly retrieve at once. He will need to leverage his father''s influence to get this done quickly and without as many precautions."


    Jamison nods in understanding. Theo continues.


    "Meanwhile, I''ll be taking care of the security system. How I''ll be doing this is... risky, but it should work out fine as long as Derek does his part correctly. There is an insecure ventilation shaft I can squeeze through to access a breaker."


    Derek tenses upon hearing this. Theo finally brings up Derek''s role.


    "Derek will be doing the most dangerous part of this scheme. He will be the one robbing the bank, or more specifically robbing Jamison."


    "Wait, what? Seriously?" Derek interrupts.


    "Yes, seriously. You can''t fit into the vents, and I can''t intimidate people into listening to me," Theo replies.


    Derek''s jaw clenches as he mulls it over. Theo has a point about their skills fitting the roles, but committing a crime like this isn''t really his style. Come to think of it, it isn''t any of their usual styles.


    "Should we really do this?" Derek mutters.


    Theo and Jamison exchange a look. Jamison turns to Derek, trying to persuade him.


    "You want that creep as far from Zoe as possible, don''t you?"


    Derek nods without hesitation.


    "Then this is the best way to do it. He got let off the hook after trying to stab Zoe, so what''s stopping him from trying something again?" Jamison argues.


    Begrudgingly, Derek nods in agreement. He looks conflicted by the role he''s going to play, but understands its the cost of achieving their goals. Theo takes control of the conversation again. He points to his notes.


    "Derek, you will enter the building wearing a disguise. You''ll threaten everyone in the bank with your gun. Insist on taking the money and leaving with Jamison as a hostage."


    Derek blinks, his jaw slack. He stammers a reply.


    "I-I don''t have a gun?"


    Jamison finally pulls a suitcase from beside him. The unassuming black case clicks open, its interior padded with black foam. Derek''s eyes widen at the sight of an assault rifle nestled into the case. It''s not a model Derek is familiar with, either.


    "W-Where the fuck did you get that?" Derek stutters.


    Jamison snaps the briefcase shut after having revealed the gun to Derek.


    "None of your business."


    Derek shakes his head at Jamison''s standoffish attitude. Theo clears his throat, getting the boy''s attention. He steers the conversation back to the plan.


    "We''ll need to go over the plan several times to ensure nothing goes wrong... We will only discuss the plan in person. We can''t have evidence being tracked back to us." Theo warns.


    Jamison and Derek both nod in understanding.


    "Okay. I''ll go over the details once more..."

 The Voice Of Reason [36]

    The door clicks shut behind Jamison as he slips into his home. The house is dark, so Jamison is careful to approach the stairs leading up toward his bedroom. He doesn''t want to wake his father, especially not when he''s carrying a firearm he definitely shouldn''t have.


    Click.


    Jamison freezes as the lights come on. Sitting on the couch with his arms folded is Jamison''s father, the last person Jamison wants to see right now. Sweat beads on Jamison''s forehead as his father gestures for him to sit down.


    "H-Hey, Dad..."


    "Take a seat, Jamison."


    Swallowing his excuses, Jamison takes a seat on the couch with his father. He leaves the case containing the gun by the door. Hopefully his father won''t take notice of it.


    "Bring that over," Jamison''s father growls.


    Jamison rises from his seat. His face is as white as paper as he brings the gun case over to the couch. He sits back down stiffly.


    "Now I''m going to give you a chance to explain yourself, Jamison."


    Jamison''s father is giving him a cold look. The kind of look a cop gives a suspect. The kind of stare a normal person gives an insane person. It''s not how a father usually looks at his child.


    "Well, I was just hoping to get something to defend myself with..."


    Jamison''s voice is unsteady as he starts to spin a web of lies. His father doesn''t stop him.


    "Did you know there was an attack at the school?"


    Jamison''s father nods impassively. His expression doesn''t betray what he''s thinking.


    "...Well, because of that I wanted to get this for self defense. I know it might-"


    The words get caught in his throat when his father raises his hands to cup his own face. The usually stoic man is holding his head in his hands. Jamison watches in fascination as his father''s shoulders tense. He is crying.


    "D-Dad?"


    Softly, the man''s shoulders tremble. One single gasp of grief is all Jamison hears.


    "Are you... crying?"


    Hesitation gives way to urgency in that moment. Jamison quickly embraces his father, and hugs him tightly. Jamison''s father reacts by putting one arm around his son. The sight of wet tears staining his father''s face is hard for Jamison to bear.


    Jamison''s father steadies himself. His voice comes out sounding hoarse. Weak.


    "I just... wish I had done things right, Jamie."


    The sadness in his father''s voice is too much. Jamison argues, his voice wavering.


    "Dad, you didn''t do anything... wrong."


    Emotional pain forces a grimace onto Jamison''s father''s face. His thin lips twist into a scowl. He shuts his eyes as if to hide from it all. Jamison attempts to comfort his dad once more.


    "This isn''t your fault, I was just... being stupid-"


    "No. I''m not talking about the fucking gun, Jamie."


    Jamison''s eyes widen at his father''s language. He hardly ever uses crude language, much less that particular word.


    "Then... about what?" Jamison asks.


    Jamison watches his dad slowly look up from his lap. He follows his dad''s gaze, and sees a particular picture of his late mother. A rather tall woman with lengthy brown hair. Jamison has already looked at her picture a thousand times.


    "When your mother... passed away, I-"


    An especially painful memory causes him to choke up briefly. He continues, albeit quieter.


    "I just couldn''t look at you, Jamie."


    The sharp sting of that sentence cuts deep into Jamison''s heart. Emotions bubble up to the forefront of his mind. He can''t stop the tears that pour from his eyes. Spilling down his features.


    God damn it, Dad.


    Jamison curls his hands into fists. His knuckles turn white as he struggles to process what he''s feeling. The rage. The pain. The loneliness.


    "I''m sorry, Jamie. I should have been there for you."


    Anger can''t withstand that blow. The regret dripping from his dad''s voice is too genuine to stay upset with him. Sure, it doesn''t heal the years of neglect Jamison suffered, but it''s meaningful on its own.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Jamie''s dad clears his throat, continuing to speak.


    "I don''t know who you intend to kill, but-"


    Jamison''s eyebrows shoot up at that. He quickly cuts off his father.


    "No! No, Dad. We were... well, where do I start?"


    This inevitably leads to Jamison explaining everything to his dad.


    ~


    More than an hour has passed, and Jamison''s dad is up to date on everything that''s been going on in his son''s life. And when he says everything, he means everything. From the day Zoe drank that strange potion to now.


    Jamison''s father is looking at him like he''s just grown a second head.


    "So... let me get this straight. You like this girl, right?"


    Jamison nods in the affirmative.


    "And when some freak attacks her with a knife, you want to get revenge?"


    Once again, Jamison nods.


    "So you decide to go along with your buddy''s plan to... and let me make sure I got this right..."


    Jamison bites his lip, knowing what his dad is about to say.


    "Rob a bank. With an actual assault rifle. To frame this knife guy as the culprit."


    Hearing his own no-nonsense dad say it puts a new perspective on things. The ridiculousness of such a plan is painfully obvious. Three teenagers, robbing a bank, and getting away with it? It''s something only a painfully hormonal or drugged up teenager could think of!


    "It sounded a lot more reasonable when Theo said it!" Jamison stammers.


    Laughter. An impossible joyous sound which Jamison hasn''t heard come out of his father''s mouth in so many years. The embarrassment he was feeling vanishes in the face of seeing his dad finally smiling again.


    Jamison''s dad manages to calm himself down enough to talk.


    "S-So you boys were going to do all of that, instead of just... I don''t know... asking your old man to help you put the guy in prison?"


    Realization dawns on Jamison. He immediately face palms, his foolishness like cold water over a fire of inflated teenage ego. Jamison''s dad chuckles, putting a gentle hand on his son''s shoulder.


    "Look, for today I think we should head to bed. Tomorrow we''ll have to give your friends a call. Especially Theodore, that little shit!"


    A blush flares up on Jamison''s cheeks as he realizes how much trouble his friends are going to be in. Better a scolding from your parents than jailtime, he supposes.


    ~


    Zoe is snuggled up with her mother and father in their bedroom. The soft embrace of her parents and the blanket is a luxury long forgone in favor of independence. She had argued against it, but her mother had insisted she stay close to them for tonight.


    Mom had this redness in her eyes when she came home late after work. It was clear she had been crying on the car ride home, but she wouldn''t admit it. Dad looked just as upset over the ordeal. Zoe had never seen Dad look so angry.


    I didn''t mean to worry them.


    Zoe sighs, pulling the covers over her head. The stuffy warm air beneath the blankets is stifling. She can hear the muffled sound of her parent''s breathing. She scoots closer to her mother, and embraces her sleeping body.


    Tears start to flow before Zoe knows why. Soft little sobs urge her hot tears out. Zoe feels her lithe body shiver, her arms tightly hugging her mother''s sleeping form.


    Why am I even crying?


    Movement gives Zoe pause. She feels her mother twist. Then the blanket is lifted away to reveal her tear stained face. She looks up at her mother''s concerned face.


    "Zoe? What''s wrong, honey?"


    Zoe pushes her teary eyed face into her mother''s side. She can feel her mother gently rubbing her on the back. Holding Zoe close as she lets her emotions out.


    This goes on for several minutes.


    Finally, Zoe stops crying. Her chest heaves as she sucks in ragged breaths.


    "Feel better..?" Zoe''s mother asks.


    Zoe nuzzles her mother''s shoulder briefly. Her doe eyes look up at her mother, red and puffy from bawling for so long. She speaks in a rather hoarse voice.


    "Y-Yeah..."


    With that Zoe''s mom gives her a gently rub on the head. Her hand carefully brushes Zoe''s long dark hair out of her face. Zoe looks shies away from her mother''s concerned gaze. Her cheeks burn as she feels the telltale stickiness of snot on her face. She must look so gross!


    The look Zoe''s mother gives her telegraphs only concern for her daughter. No disgust. She speaks to Zoe in a tender tone.


    "What... led to all of that, honey?"


    Zoe''s cheeks turn a brighter shade of red as she contemplates the question. Nothing in particular caused that. She already processed the attack earlier that day, yet she bawled her eyes out regardless.


    Zoe has to admit she doesn''t know.


    "I-I don''t know..."


    The way Zoe''s mother smiles tells Zoe her mother suspected as much. Her mother puts her arms around Zoe tenderly, and the two hug quietly. There''s something about the action that tells Zoe her mother understands.


    Zoe gently pulls her face from her mother''s shoulder. The two exchange eye contact.


    "Sometimes you just need to cry, and that''s okay."


    Her mother''s words are nothing special, yet they resonate in Zoe''s heart like the ring of a gong. She sniffs, burying her face in her mother''s neck as if to hide her emotional reaction. Zoe''s mother gently holds her, comforting Zoe.


    The brief gush of emotions subsides. Zoe has to force herself to calm down in order to speak.


    "I-I just didn''t want to cry, y''know?"


    Zoe''s mother nods softly, not saying anything. Zoe continues.


    "And I knew I shouldn''t- B-Boys don''t cry-" Zoe chokes up.


    The pain Zoe is feeling is written all over her face. Zoe feels her mother squeeze her close, and nearly bursts into tears anew. Fortunately, she''s already cried herself out. Several gasping hiccups of anguish are all that escape Zoe.


    "You aren''t a boy, Zoe," Mom comforts.


    Zoe feels something in her chest seize. That little black knot that''s always hiding in her chest squeezes. Her stress and self hatred twisting her emotions in a whirlwind. And then Zoe''s mother stops it all with a single statement.


    "You never were."


    Something snaps inside Zoe. She looks up at her mother''s eyes, seeing her own face in the reflection. The face of a girl. The girl she always was.


    I was always a girl?


    Zoe''s hands clench into small fists as she trembles. The truth emboldening her.


    "I''m a girl," Zoe whispers.


    That puts a smile on Mom''s face. She carefully wipes Zoe''s tears with her hand, beaming with pride for her daughter.


    "Exactly, honey. You are a girl."


    Zoe''s lips twitch into a dopey smile at the affirmation. It hadn''t felt real until now. She didn''t feel real until now. Turns out, she is a very real girl.


    I gotta tell my friends!


    Mom raises her brow as Zoe tries to reach across to the nightstand. Mom grabs her wrist to gently stop her, and the two lock eyes.


    "Honey, you need to sleep."


    "But I want to tell my friends that-"


    "That you''re a real girl? They know, honey."


    Zoe pouts, her cheeks puffing slightly as she slouches back into her spot on the bed. Mom gives her a mildly amused smile as she pulls the blankets up to cover them both.


    Dad''s soft snores fill the room as the women of the family try their best to drift off to sleep. It''s comfortable to lay with those who care about you, even if one of them sounds like a foghorn.


    "...Hey, Mom?" Zoe whispers.


    Zoe feels the pillows shift as her mom turns her head toward Zoe.


    "...Yes, honey?" Mom sighs.


    An especially happy smile adorns Zoe''s face as she lays there in the dark.


    "I love you."


    Briefly, there is silence.


    "I love you too, honey."


    And that is the last thing Zoe hears before exhaustion takes her.

 Consequences [37]

    Theo stares intently at himself in the mirror. Dark circles underscore his blue eyes. His usually neat and tidy hair is a little unkempt, so he grabs his comb. The tangles come out with each stroke of the comb.


    I''m doing this for... for Zoe.


    Footsteps fail to catch Theo''s attention as he combs his hair. The sight of his mother standing beside him in the mirror startles him. He turns to her with a blank look, his tired eyes appraising her. She looks positively pissed.


    "...Is something the matter, Mother?"


    The scathing glare Theo receives tells him something is in fact, the matter. His mother''s voice is stern and cold as she speaks to him.


    "Yes, Theodore. Let''s talk in your room."


    Mother departs from the bathroom. Theo purses his thin lips in contemplation.


    What could this be about?


    Theo follows his mother with an impassive look. She is waiting in his bedroom with her arms crossed. Theo enters, shutting the bedroom door behind him. Mother is quick to point at his bed. Interpreting this as an order to sit, Theo takes a seat on his bed.


    Mother takes a deep breath, her chest rising and falling. Her voice is strained as she speaks.


    "Theodore, I am going to give you one more chance to come clean before... I have to make you."


    Theo''s thoughts linger on the plan to rob the bank. He could tell her about that, but she would be incredibly worried and upset. It is nothing for Mother to concern herself with.


    That plan is under control.


    So what is it?


    Speaking in a tired voice, Theo replies.


    "I''m not sure what you''re talking about, Mother."


    Mother''s face grows red as she scowls at her son. Theo doesn''t flinch under her scrutiny. It is clear Mother''s patience is worn thin. She raises her hand, clenching it into a fist.


    "Mother?" Theo whispers.


    Contrary to Theo''s fears, his mother does not strike him. No, she strikes the collection of posters adorning his corkboard.


    Theodore blanches as his elaborate bank heist plans are revealed. The posters fall lazily to the carpeted floor below. Mother has tears in her eyes as she lets her reveal sink in.


    She knew about my plans?


    No, she knows about the board?


    Nausea bubbles up in Theo''s gut as he breaks eye contact with his mother. His hands clench into fists. Mother has known the whole time. Mother speaks, her voice breaking as tears drip down her cheeks.


    "I thought you respected me, Theodore."


    Theo''s jaw tenses as he looks at his own feet. The heart break in his mother''s voice is enough to give him pause. He parts his lips, his voice a little hoarse as he speaks.


    "I-I do respect you, Mother."


    "Really? Do you? Because you certainly didn''t respect me enough not to come up with this crackpot scheme! Robbing a fucking bank? What were you thinking?!"


    The tang of blood fills Theo''s mouth as he bites his own tongue. He stops himself, looking up at his mother with an expression of fear. Existential fear that comes from realizing you''re not who you''re supposed to be. Theo''s voice cracks.


    "I-I don''t know. It seemed perfectly logical at the time..."


    Mother is wiping the tears that spill down her cheeks. She grimaces at Theodore''s words, laughing bitterly as she looks over at the window. She mutters words not intended to be heard.


    "Perfectly logical? You''re certainly his kid..."


    She looks back at Theo to see him wide eyed, pale, and with bloody lips. Realization dawns on Mother as she hurriedly scoops Theo into a tight hug. Theodore is trembling in her arms. Her voice comes out gentle and soft as she does damage control.


    "I''m sorry."


    Theo clutches at his mother like a baby, his eyes shut tight. Tears are flowing down both of their faces. Mother whispers gently, doing her best to fix her mistake.


    "I didn''t mean it. You''re nothing like that."


    Several quiet moments pass as the two of them embrace one another.


    The rising sun shines through the window, illuminating mother and son. The faint sound of people going about their days outside filters in through the glass. Mother gently releases her hold on Theo, standing up.


    "What do you say we go grab some ice cream?" Mother offers.


    Theo smiles slightly, wiping his glasses off.


    "I would like that very much, Mother."


    ~


    The sun is high above, it''s rays heating the asphalt. A pebble flies through the air. The one responsible for kicking aforementioned pebble has his hands in his pockets. The pebble rolls to a stop. The boy approaches it, and kicks it again.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    "Derek! Hey!" Zoe shouts.


    Derek lifts his gaze to see Zoe walking toward him. She''s practically bouncing toward him. Contrary to her joy, dread wells up in Derek''s gut. He gives her a hollow smirk. If she notices how fake his enthusiasm is, she doesn''t say it.


    Zoe grabs him, pulling him into a quick hug. Derek tenses up a little at the physical contact. Zoe feels the strange reaction, and pulls away. Her voice is laced with anxiety as she questions him.


    "Is something wrong?"


    Derek''s smile cracks, falling away to an uncertain frown. His voice is unsteady as he replies.


    "We just need to talk about something, is all..."


    The concern in Zoe''s doe eyes is heart breaking. Derek does his best to ignore her emotional state as he takes her hand. His larger hand gently guides her smaller self down the sidewalk.


    Soft scrapes of their shoes hitting the sidewalk. The cool autumn breeze ruffling their clothes. Trees growing more common the further they walk. They''re approaching the edge of town. Before long, a forest is looming before them.


    How am I going to tell her?


    Derek''s eyes flicker to Zoe. She looks deeply upset by the suspense. Derek tightens his grip on her hand. Zoe looks up at him curiously. He doesn''t say anything, instead pulling her into the forest. Guiding her to a familiar spot.


    Beads of sweat slide down Derek''s forehead as he walks. The crunch of leaves underfoot does little to drown out his thoughts. He had his emotions in check before, but now that Zoe is here he can''t help but panic.


    I just have to be honest, don''t I?


    The familiar sight of a rocky hill greets the pair of teenagers. Zoe glances up at it in understanding. Derek wordlessly walks her up to the edge of the raised boulder. The two of them climb up without any need for discussion.


    With Zoe sitting beside him atop that rock, Derek feels he can finally say what is on his mind.


    Derek clears his throat.


    "There''s a lot I haven''t told you. That the guys haven''t told you."


    Zoe is looking out at the horizon. Derek is doing the same as he continues speaking.


    "Do you remember the time we went to the arcade, and Theo fainted?"


    The memory puts a frown on Zoe''s face. She nods, glancing over at Derek. He doesn''t make eye contact. Instead, he looks up at the clouds. Derek''s voice grows quiet now.


    "Well. When we were outside, we had a fight."


    "A fight? Like, an argument?" Zoe interjects.


    Derek tilts his head from side to side. He replies earnestly.


    "We argued, but we also physically fought."


    "What?!" Zoe gasps, shocked.


    The surprise and fear coloring Zoe''s adorable face is too much for Derek. His expression cracks into an ashamed wince. He raises his hand to put a small barrier between Zoe and his face. Zoe takes a deep breath. She asks Derek the obvious.


    "Why would you do that..?"


    Derek closes his eyes for a moment.


    Just say it, you dumbass.


    Derek''s voice sounds strained as he admits the truth.


    "We were fighting over you, Zoe."


    Zoe looks at Derek with an incredulous expression. Her exasperated sigh serves to further Derek''s embarrassment.


    "So, you all fought over wanting to date me for yourself?"


    Derek nods.


    "...Why didn''t you just ask me about that?"


    The gears in Derek''s head stop. He looks at Zoe''s face, inspecting it for something. He doesn''t find that something. He turns to look out at the horizon bitterly.


    "I don''t know."


    Zoe scoffs, scooting closer to Derek. Her tone grows tender.


    "It''s okay not to know why they did it, but why did you do it?"


    "I guess I was just... jealous. Really, really, jealous."


    Zoe gently raises her hand to Derek''s head. Her touch is gentle as she ruffles his hair. The affectionate gesture brings a little redness to Derek''s otherwise pallid complexion.


    Zoe removes her hand, and asks another question.


    "Well this does explain some things, but it sounds like that isn''t all you have to say?"


    Derek nods in the affirmative. He sits up straight, and turns to look Zoe in the eyes. His voice is a lot more stable now.


    "After we had that fight we made a pact. The rules were to basically avoid being romantic with you... for the sake of the friend group."


    Zoe snorts, her amused smile bringing a blush to Derek''s face.


    "It was Theo''s idea, not mine!"


    "You guys are dorks... pfft. Go on?"


    Derek pushes past his superficial embarrassment to explain further.


    "That pact was broken when Theo confessed to you during lunch. Jamison and I almost beat him up over it..."


    "What is with you guys? You were never violent in the past!"


    Zoe looks both irritated and concerned as she says this. Derek bites his lip, but doesn''t argue with her over their behavior. They had never fought like this in the past. It''s strange.


    Derek moves forward with the explanation.


    "We didn''t do anything. Theo stopped us with a deal..."


    Derek trails off, and Zoe looks at him expectantly.


    "...yes, and what was the deal?"


    "We would take turns confessing to you. Dating you."


    Zoe processes that for a little while. Her expression changes a few times before she speaks. She looks away from Derek, staring off at the distant city skyline.


    "You guys have been doing all of this stuff behind my back?"


    Derek follows Zoe''s gaze. He stares off at the skyscrapers, and shivers. The autumn breeze isn''t responsible, no. His conscious is to blame.


    "Yes. There is more, too."


    Zoe laughs bitterly. She''s not smiling. Zoe''s urges Derek to continue.


    "Go on. Let''s hear what else you all have been hiding from me."


    "When that... creep... tried to stab you, Theo decided we needed to take drastic measures."


    Derek pauses, but Zoe doesn''t react.


    "Theo made a plan to, uh... to rob a bank, and pin the crime on the assailant."


    The wind kicks up a little. Zoe''s dark hair flutters slightly. The sunlight makes her hair shimmer beautifully, and for a moment Derek forgets the situation. He reaches out a hand to absentmindedly touch her beautiful locks. She turns to glare at him.


    "You all were going to throw away your lives for what? Some twisted sense of justice? Revenge?"


    Zoe''s icy words cut through Derek. He feels naked, lying bare before the well founded criticism.


    "W-We didn''t do it..."


    That gets an unamused scoff out of Zoe. She sits up, her voice harsh.


    "You didn''t even consider what I wanted! Not once! You all just go and make your weird little plans behind my back, and expect me to play your game like a puppet?!"


    Zoe is shouting now. The wind is buffeting Derek''s clothes around as he sits up to match Zoe''s stance. The sound of crows cawing in the distance echoes throughout the forest. Zoe has tears in her eyes.


    "Z-Zoe, we didn''t mean to-"


    "Just shut up! I don''t care what you meant! You were going to get yourselves locked away, o-or dead! How am I supposed to cope with losing you all at once?!"


    Derek stiffens up at the sentiment behind Zoe''s tearful rage. She stands up fully, seemingly ignoring the gale force winds which threaten to topple Derek from the boulder. Her hair is whipping wildly behind her in the wind. The clouds overhead are darkening.


    Zoe opens her mouth to say something, but a flock of crows interrupts her. The loudly cawing beasts form a whirlwind, circling the two teenagers while drowning out all sound. Zoe glances around in confusion. Derek is holding his hands over his ears.


    "Delivery for Ms. Zoe Kim!"


    Dumbfounded, Zoe watches a letter fly out from the cyclone of crows. The envelope is marked with an unfamiliar stamp, and addressed to her. Stranger yet, the return address is listed as:


    Headmaster Bartleby Black


    101 Witchcrossing Road


    Manavale, KS 66427


    USA


    Zoe finishes reading the label just as the crows fly up and away. Their black feathers lazily float down to rest upon the boulder beside the two perplexed teens.


    The air is quiet. The sky is clear.


    There''s a letter in Zoe''s hand.

 Mana Poisoning [38]

    The breeze gently ruffles Zoe''s hair as she sits atop a boulder with an envelope in hand. She carefully tears it open, her fingernails finding purchase in the paper. The letter is embossed with a golden symbol. It''s unfamiliar to Zoe.


    "What''s it say?"


    Derek''s words bring a scowl to Zoe''s face. She glares at him, and he shuts his mouth.


    Zoe turns back to the letter, and reads it.


    Dear Ms. Kim,


    It has recently come to my attention that you have become a witch. Congratulations.


    However, your witchhood is not the reason I am writing to you. This is a warning, and an offer.


    Firstly, it is important you know that unrestricted usage of magic leads to an elevated mana concentration in the air. When a mundane person breathes in too much mana they will experience mana poisoning. This results in mood swings, elevated heartrate, and mania.


    I am cautioning you against using your magic too often. The ambient mana concentration in Witchburrow has spiked due to your actions these last few weeks, and those you frequently interact with may very well be at risk.


    Stop using your magic frivolously.


    Zoe''s expression is sour as she crumbles the letter. She doesn''t bother reading the next portion, instead trying to process the information. Derek is looking at her like he wants to say something. Zoe groans, urging him to speak.


    "Just spit it out, you jerk."


    Derek nods, putting a voice to his thoughts.


    "I''m just worried about you, that''s all."


    The tender way Derek speaks sends a pang of longing through Zoe. She looks at him, and he tilts his head. She breaks eye contact, avoiding the urge to hug him. Acting thoughtlessly on her impulses is what caused this whole mess.


    Zoe looks out at the wilderness with a bitter frown. Derek clears his throat.


    "Are you okay?"


    Derek approaches her. She doesn''t move away when he puts his hand on her shoulder. Derek continues speaking, but in a softer tone of voice.


    "I''m sorry. We should never should have treated you that way, you don''t des-"


    "It''s my fault, Derek."


    Zoe''s voice is trembling. She doesn''t make eye contact as Derek looks to her for an explanation. She explains as calmly as she can.


    "The magic was poisoning you. All of you. It''s my fault."


    Her words trail off to a whisper. Derek blinks. His grip on Zoe''s shoulder tightens as he turns her to face him. She looks ready to cry. Derek''s face falls, and he takes his hands off Zoe. Derek questions her.


    "I-I... Really? What do you mean..?"


    "The letter was from a... a magic person?"


    Zoe''s lack of certainty raises suspicion. Derek questions her carefully, trying not to sound too accusatory.


    "So... they know about magic?"


    Derek is acknowledged with a nod from Zoe. She turns her eyes to her feet. She''s still clutching the crumpled letter in one hand. Derek continues speaking.


    "And they said your magic poisons people?"


    Zoe winces at the bluntness of the statement, but doesn''t deny it. She can hear the disbelief in Derek''s tone, so she offers an explanation.


    "Using my magic is like... spreading mana. And too much mana poisons regular people. Or at least that''s how I understand it."


    Zoe''s words hang in the air as the two teenagers look at one another. Derek''s expression is fighting between incredulous disbelief and shocked realization. He finally settles on realization. He parts his lips, speaking more to himself than to Zoe.


    "Is that why I feel this way about you?"


    Cool wind sends a shiver down Zoe''s spine as she looks at Derek. Her lips tighten into a thin frown. She can feel a tear dripping down her pale face.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    It''s my fault.


    Zoe whirls around, practically jumping off the rocky formation. Derek gasps in surprise as Zoe leaps down. He quickly runs to the edge. Zoe is already well past the slope. Her lungs sting as she breaks into a sprint, pushing through the trees.


    Derek shouts, but his voice is drowned out by the wind whipping past Zoe''s ears. Twigs crunch underfoot as she leaves the forest behind her.


    The sound of a car''s horn pulls her out of her daze. She looks up to see a car stopped in the road, it''s headlights shining on her. Zoe is standing in the middle of a road.


    She scurries off the road and onto the sidewalk with an embarrassed frown.


    Her feet carry her through the suburbs without further input. She''s not really paying attention as she arrives home. She walks up to the door, and enters wordlessly. Mom''s voice greets her.


    "Hey honey, back already?"


    Mom is relaxing on the couch with a book in her hands. Zoe looks over at her mother blankly. Mom looks up to see Zoe''s state of distress, and immediately stands. Her voice is laced with motherly concern.


    "Zoe! What happened?!"


    Zoe tries to reply, but a sudden rush of tears leaves her too choked up to speak.


    Mom gently embraces her, holding her close. Zoe pushes down her emotions in an attempt to speak. She manages to choke out some words between sobs.


    "I-It''s all my fault!"


    "What''s your fault, honey? What happened?"


    Zoe manages to shove the crumpled letter into her mother''s hands. Mom unfurls the paper, her eyes skimming over its contents. Her brows furrow the more she reads. Zoe buries her head in her mother''s shoulder, whimpering softly.


    ~


    The warmth of the beverage combined with its chocolatey taste does wonders for Zoe''s mental wellbeing. She takes another sip of her hot cocoa. Miranda is gently rubbing Zoe''s back, a soothing gesture that further calms Zoe.


    This girl really needs to take more breaks.


    Miranda looks over Zoe''s clothing to see bits of leaf and twig stuck to her body. It''s clear Derek took her out to the forest. If Miranda wasn''t so busy tending to her daughter she would be giving that boy a piece of her mind.


    Zoe looks calmer now, so Miranda takes the chance to resume their conversation.


    "Feeling better?"


    A soft little nod precedes Zoe''s reply.


    "Yeah... I''m still a little mad at myself, though."


    Miranda smirks at her daughter''s selfless attitude. She gently pets Zoe''s head, looking at the uncrumpled letter in her hand. Miranda assures Zoe she isn''t to blame.


    "It''s not your fault, Zoe."


    "But, it is. I poisoned my friends, and you too!" Zoe protests.


    Zoe looks ready to go down another spiral of self hatred. Miranda stops her with firm words.


    "Zoe, you cannot blame yourself for not being educated..."


    "Then who gets the blame, Mom?" Zoe pleads.


    A thoughtful look passes over Miranda''s face as she considers who is to blame. Esmarelda''s wrinkled visage pops into her mind, but it is not entirely her fault either. The boys are to blame for their own actions (even if they were under the influence of mana poisoning.)


    "Sometimes things happen, and they aren''t anyone in particular''s fault. You, Esmarelda, and the boys all share some blame for this."


    Miranda lets Zoe marinate in that for a minute. When Zoe doesn''t say anything, she asks her a question.


    "Do drunk people get punished for their actions when under the influence?"


    Zoe furrows her brows. Her retort is sharp.


    "Mom, my friends didn''t intentionally get mana poisoning!"


    Miranda cuts her daughter off with a sharp look. Zoe clams up, but the indignant expression doesn''t leave her little face.


    "All I''m saying is those boys clearly had something going on before the mana poisoning, for you and for each other."


    Zoe scrunches her little nose up at Miranda''s phrasing. Her expression shifts to disbelief as she speaks. Zoe''s voice comes out quiet and unsure.


    "You mean the mana poisoning wouldn''t make them have like... fake feelings... for me?"


    Understanding Zoe''s feelings, Miranda gently nods.


    Zoe looks down at her hot cocoa with a sheepish smile. She''s grinning to herself despite it all. Miranda gently warns Zoe, cautioning against getting caught up in her emotions.


    "Now, Zoe... I know you like the boys, but you should also stick up for yourself."


    Zoe''s little smile fades to a littler frown. Miranda speaks gently, doing her best not to crush her daughter''s heart.


    "They hurt you, Zoe."


    Sniffles. Zoe rubs her eyes with the back of her hand. She has no more tears to shed, yet her emotions get the better of her. Miranda gently rubs Zoe''s back to comfort her. Zoe can''t help but whimper sadly. Her voice comes out shaky.


    "T-They did hurt me, yeah..."


    Miranda squeezes Zoe, holding her close. Zoe continues to speak between dry sobs.


    "I-I just- I don''t want to lose them!"


    "Honey... deep breaths."


    Zoe takes a shaky breath. Miranda holds onto her hand, helping her stabilize herself before she can fall into a panic.


    Miranda speaks softly to her daughter.


    "Zoe, you won''t lose them forever. They care about you as far as I can tell."


    Zoe nods slowly. Miranda finally holds the uncrumpled letter in front of Zoe, her other hand pointing to the second portion of the letter. Miranda questions Zoe.


    "Did you read this part..? It''s... important."


    Zoe shakes her head. Her brown eyes trace the words on the page.


    Now that the hard part is out of the way, I would like to extend an invitation to you.


    I run a school for the magically inclined, supernaturally altered, and otherwise unordinary. Here students can learn how to safely live their lives without harming those around them. We also ensure our students are safe from those with ill will for the non-mundane.


    I''m offering you a chance to attend my school after your highschool graduation. The only cost is your time.


    Sincerely, Headmaster Bartelby Black


    "This sounds like a scam, Mom," Zoe cautions.


    Miranda points to a bit of text at the bottom of the letter. She points at her phone, a school website clearly visible. Miranda explains.


    "I already checked out the school website. It''s legit, or as far as I can tell. There''s no direct admission of magic or weird stuff like that... just a regular school website."


    Zoe scrunches up her button nose. Miranda can''t say for certain what she is thinking, but the look on Zoe''s face telegraphs a complicated unwillingness.


    "My friends can''t go with me..."


    Zoe''s voice is a whisper. Miranda nods slowly, watching her daughter carefully.


    When Zoe doesn''t continue speaking Miranda cuts in.


    "The decision is yours, Zoe."