{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
Chapter 1: Return to Home.
It's been 3 years since I saw my hometown. I was very happy as I was returning home in a long while. I was in my Final Year of B.E (Engineering) in Pune (City in India) When Covid hit the whole country and Lockdown was imposed on the whole country. I was stuck in there. I haven't seen my Mom and Sister in person for the past 3 years I missed them so much. I used to return home whenever I used to get summer or Diwali holidays but during my last 2 years of graduation, my mother told me to not return and study for final year exams. Then Lockdown happened and I was stuck there for 1 more year.
I wanted to surprise my family so I returned 2 days earlier than they were expecting me. It was 8:30 in the morning when I reached my station. I got off the train and was waiting for the bus to arrive. I noticed the place was quieter than usual due to the covid I suppose.
The Bus arrived in 10 min. I got the ticket and sat on the seat by the window and kept my bag on the other seat. It takes 30 to 40 min to reach the stop near my home so to pass the time I wore the earphones played the song and closed my eyes thinking about my family.
About 5 min or so I felt a tap on my shoulder so I opened my eyes and saw a woman standing she was trying to say something so I took the earphones out of my ears and said...
Me: Yes miss what happened?
Woman: Can I sit here, please?
Me: Ohh sorry, please sit.
I adjusted my braid and took the bag and placed it on my legs.
Woman: Thank you for letting me sit and by the way you have very beautiful hair, miss.
Me: Thank You so much. The bus got full quite quickly.
Woman: Yeah due to covid most of the working time was shifted that's why there are a lot of people. I too am one of them. Ohh sorry, I haven't Introduced myself I am Shikha, and you?
Me: My name is Ankit.
Shikha: Wait Ankit...(her jaw dropped) YOU ARE A BOY! I am so sorry I thought you were a girl I am very-very sorry.
Me: Ohh it's ok I am used to it. I get mistaken a lot as a girl.
Shikha: Yeah I mean look at your braid It is so thick shiny and it's so long. Your hair must be at least till your thigh or knees I presume. If not for your clothes and name anyone would have thought you were a girl. You don't even have a hint of facial hair and I haven't seen a boy with this long hair in my whole life.
Me: I guess the credit goes to my mom's genes and I didn't want them this long but due to lockdown I wasn't able to get a trim.
Before covid lockdown hit a year ago I already had my hair till my hips but they have grown way longer. (Little longer than thigh length I think.) and I never had much facial hair anyway so I always kept my face clean.
Shikha: I don't think it is only because of genes. You must have taken care of them to look like this. Right?
Me: How did you know...?
Shikha: I am a girl I can tell these things.
Me: Ahh right!
Shikha: I mean look at how you do and handle your long braid. There isn't a single hair out of place. You must have to brush them daily to get them like that.
Me: Damn you can tell that just by looking at my braid. You a hair expert or what! (mockingly)
Shikha: (smilingly) something like that. Still, you got fabulous hair and it even suits your face. Don't ever cut them short. Well, my stop is here got to go and nice meeting you Ankit.
Me: Again, thank you, & if I wanted short hair, I wouldn't have grown them this long.
Shikha: Haha right I guess we will eventually meet again till then Bye.
Me: Bye has a nice day.
And she is gone. I never expected to meet someone like that on a bus. Still, I enjoyed my talk with her. Guess I will be able to meet her if she works close by. After 5 min the bus arrived at my spot. I got out.
It was 5 min walk from the bus stop to home. I was excited to surprise my family. I reached my home and was both excited and scared about how will they react when they see me. I rang the bell.
I heard Mom saying "It must be the milkman he is late again Neha go open the door." I heard the footsteps.
The door opened.
When she looked at me she was shocked and first asked me to come inside. As soon as I came inside and put my bag down. Sis quickly came near and hugged me and said...
Neha: Ohh little brother I missed You so much! (cryingly)
Me: I missed you too sis. I missed you so much.
Neha: I almost didn't recognize you. You look so different.
Then she felt my braid and said...
Neha: Wait are you wearing a braid just how long...
She took my braid in her hand brought it in the front and rested it on my shoulder. Then she took a step back to take a good look at me.
When she saw it she said...
(She had her Jaw down)
Neha: Oh My GOD!! It's beautiful but soooo Long!
Me: I know!
Neha: Your hair is till your thighs no almost till your knees. You never told me about this on your phone.
Mom: Neha what is taking you so long?
Neha: Look Mom who is back.
Mom: Who?
As soon as I saw her I ran to her and hugged her.
Me: I missed you, Mom!
Mom: I missed you to son. You came earlier than expected...
Neha: Yeah you are two days earlier.
Me: I wanted to surprise you guys.
Mom: I see and WOW! Looks like someone taking too much care of their hair.
Me: Yeah, I know it's Very Long.
Mom: "Very Long" Son your hair is longer than both of us combined.
(Mom has hair a little longer than shoulder length and Sis has them till their mid-back.)
Mom: And it's not only long they are very well maintained.
Neha: Yeah mom I said so too. His hair looks like from the girls in shampoo ads.
Me: I'll take that as a compliment.
Both of them smiled.
Mom: Well Enough talk first let him freshen up. Neha go help him take his bag to his room I'll go turn on the geyser.
Neha: Ok Mom Let's go Ankit.
I followed her to the room. She opened the door and turned out the and said...
Me: It Looks still the same and cleaned too.
Neha: Mom and I regularly clean your room.
Me: Thanks for that.
Neha: Thanks, will not suffice I need a treat for that.
Me: yeah-yeah.
Then she left. I looked around a bit then sat down thinking about the memories around the room.
Mom: The water is ready Ankit.
Me: I am coming.
I took my clothes and went to the bathroom. On the way, my Mom handed me an extra towel for the hair. Now it takes me around 30 to 35 min to bathe if I wash my hair. I came out of the bathroom patting my hair dry with the help of a towel.
Mom: Ankit first eat your breakfast then come to my room I'll help you with your hair.
Me: Ok mom.
I quickly ate my breakfast and went to her room she saw me and told me to sit at the table. Then she started drying my hair with a hairdryer. After drying she started brushing my hair.
Mom: I know you've been growing your hair since 12th std. How many years has it been 4-5.?
Me: 5 and half years.
Mom: Yeah, but I was very surprised when I saw your hair today. I never thought you will grow them this long. Even girl's nowadays don't grow them this long. You never told me.
Me: I know, I am sorry I didn't tell you about this. Even I didn't know they will grow this long and due to lockdown, every Salon was closed.
Mom: It's ok I will take this as my second surprise. Don't get me wrong but you have very beautiful hair, you have maintained them very well and long hair suits you better than short hair anyway.
Me: Thank you so much, Mom!
Mom: Done! Now, how you want to tie them?
Me: I'll let you decide.
Mom: Ok then close your eyes.
Me: Ok.
I closed my eyes and she started doing her work.
Me: I missed this you know.
Mom: Yeah, me too! When was the last time I did your hair like this?
Me: I think That was 3 years ago during Diwali Holidays.
Mom: Ohh yes! That was so much fun. You remember you were soo angry when Neha put on some makeup on you when you were asleep.
(I feel she divided my hair into two parts and I felt the comb on the top of my head as she was parting the hair.)
Me: Yeah I remember it clearly because I didn't even notice she did that and I went out to the market like that.
Mom: I still remember your face when you returned home.
Me: You very laughing so much when I told you about that.
Then I felt a stretch on one side and I somewhat guessed what she doing but I still kept quiet about that.
Mom: Haha I know.
After some time I felt the stretch on another side.
Mom: And It's done.
I opened my eyes and saw myself in the mirror.
Me: TWIN BRAIDS! (I already guessed it.)
Mom: Yeah! It sure took a good time. I guess due to the length.
Me: They Look Fabulous. You are best when it comes to braids.
Mom: (Smiling.) Thank you. I Think braids look better in longer hair like yours. Do you want to fold them?
Me: No let it be. This looks way better.
Mom: I agree! Ok Now go your sister must also be waiting to talk with you.
I went to the hall. Where my sister was sitting.
Neha: Great hair Sis!
Me: You haven't changed have you?
Neha: No sis.
Me: You...( I started Tickling her )
And like that, the whole day passed and it was night. We were all having a family talk.
Mom: How did you maintain this long hair in college. That too this good-looking. It must have been hard.
Neha: Yeah I wanted to ask that too!
Me: Yeah It was hard but I had help from a friend in college. If she hadn't helped me I wouldn't have hair this long.
Neha: Who is She? (grinning)
Me: Just a close friend.
Mom: She must be really good to help you like this.
Me: Yeah.
Mom: Speaking of close friends. Remember Shalini?
Me: Yeah how could I forgot.
Mom: She is back in town.
Me: WHAT?
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
Chapter 2: Past & Present.
“What! When?” I asked my mom
“A week before I met her mother in the market yesterday. She told me that She & Shalini are moving to their old house.” Answered my mom. (My Mom and Shalini's mom are good friends.)
Me: Did you know why?
Mom: I think it was because Shalini got a Job in the town or something.
Me: She got a JOB....where?
Mom: She didn't tell me that & don't you think it's better if you ask her yourself.
Neha: Yeah, mom's right you know.
Me: Hmm...I don't know if I can. The last time we had a conversation was 5 years ago and that too ended in a big argument.
Mom: That was 5 years ago. I am sure she misses you.
Neha: She must have forgotten about it by now and things like this are common between friends.
Me: (sigh) I hope you are right. (hesitatingly)
Neha: Don't worry about it too much little brother. Now tell me about this close friend of yours. (grinning)
Mom: It's getting late for both of you. Now go to your room and sleep now.
Neha: MooooM!!
Mom: Let him rest now. We didn't let him relax the whole day.
Neha: Ok! We will talk in the morning. Good night both of you.
Me: Goodnight.
Mom: Goodnight.
Me: Ok Mom I should go too.
Mom: Son are those braids comfortable or want me to...
Me: This is great mom don't worry...GOOD NIGHT MOM!
Mom: Good Night Son.
I went to my room turned off the lights adjusted both of my braids and laid on my bed.
"They are still here!" I said while looking at the star-shaped radium stickers on the ceiling. Looking at them I also remembered the talk I had with Mom about Shalini.
"So, she is back," I said to myself and started thinking about her. I still remember her like it was yesterday.
I met her when I was 11 years old. I was new in the town and was playing in the garden near our home. My sister was at home to play with her new friends so I was alone today.
As I was going towards the slide a boy pushed me. (I was very frail when I was a child.) "Hey watch out Idio...!" I said to him. "What did you just say!" said the other boy.
I then had a good look at him. He was big and older than me.
Me: Sorry! (scared)
I got up from the ground.
Boy: I heard you.
Me: I said sorry...
He punched me in the gut.
Boy: Looks like you need to be taught a lesson!
When he was going to punch me again, I closed my eyes and that's when I heard her voice
Girl: WHAT do you think you are doing!?
I opened my eyes and saw a girl standing before me and the boy.
Boy: You!
Girl: You never change do you.... looks like I need to talk with aunty again.
Boy: Hey if you talk about Mom again...
Girl: What will you do bully me as you do to the other kids. I like to see you try.
She said that while standing in front of him. He was quite scared looking at her.
Girl: Go now!
He went away while giving me a look which I think meant "I'll see you next time."
The girl gave me her hand and said...
Girl: You hurt?
Me: No, I am fine and thanks.
I said while having a good look at her. She was the same height as me and had long straight black hair. Her face seemed familiar.
Girl: No problem, by the way, I am Shalini.
Me: OH...hi I am Ankit.
Shalini: I know we are in the same class.
Me: (that's why she seemed familiar.) What were you doing here?
Shalini: I was waiting here for your sister. Do you know where is she?
Me: Her friends came today so she is still at home.
Shalini: Well, she seems busy...Umm, will you play with me?
Me: (With a smile on my face!) WHY NOT!!
.
.
.
.
.
Remembering my memories of her I fell asleep.
~~~~~~AFTER 2 DAYS~~~~~~
--- From the Point of View of Shalini ---
Shalini: Mom are you ready yet, it's already 5:30 PM.
S Mom: Just give me 5 min.
Shalini: Please mom faster.
S Mom: I know you're excited to meet him but calm down...Damn these locks are old!
Ever since I heard that Ankit is coming back today, I was quite excited to meet him. I wanted to surprise Ankit today.
S mom: Done let's go.
Shalini: Finally! let's go.
I said while both of us closed the gate and started walking towards Ankit's house. His house was only 2 blocks away. We arrived here a week ago but were so busy cleaning and setting up the house that we didn't have time to meet anyone.
As we were walking, I realized that it's been more than 5 years since I last saw Ankit and Neha face-to-face. Thinking about Ankit made me nervous.
S mom: What happened now? you were so excited a moment ago and now all of sudden you are quiet.
Shalini: I'm kinda nervous facing him after all this time. I mean last time I talked with him we got into an argument and since then we haven't had any conversation.
S mom: It's been 5 years Shalini he too must have missed you and haven't you heard "Time heals all the wounds."
Shalini: Yeah, you are right I shouldn't think about it much.
I think I last heard about Ankit was through Neha that he is studying B.E in Pune. On the way, I was having so many thoughts like...
Has he changed or is he still the same?
Will he still be angry? What should I say when I first see him?
While these thoughts were coming to my mind, we were near his house. Just then my mom distracted me by saying...
S mom: is that Neha?
Shalini: Where? (Looking left and right.)
S mom: Up there at the balcony of their house.
I saw up there and was kinda surprised.
S mom: Just look at that Hair. I can't even see the ends.
Shalini: Damn just how long is it, I am Jealous. She didn't even tell me that she was growing her hair. (It looked like she was talking with someone over the phone.)
S mom: She must have her reasons still; it looks so pretty.
Shalini: Yeah.
S mom: Well now let's go, you can talk with her there.
We both reached the house and my mom rang the doorbell.
Aunty opened the door.
Shalini: Good Evening Aunty.
Aunty: Good Evening Shalini & Reshma. (Shalini's mom) Come inside both of you.
S mom: Sorry to surprise you like this...I know I should have visited sooner.
Aunty: Don't worry I understand.
As soon I entered the hall...
Aunty: Neha look who is here!
She came out of the kitchen and as soon as she saw me, she hugged me.
Neha: I missed you Shalini!
Shalini: I missed you too Neha di. (di = sis)
I had a quick look at her and I was confused because the girl I saw didn't had her hair in a ponytail and it was way longer so I asked her...
Shalini: Do you have a friend over?
Neha: No why do you ask?
Shalini: I just saw a girl with very long hair on your balcony.
Neha: OH, wait I'll get her here. (Smilingly)
She quickly went and a few minutes later she brought the girl with her.
At first, I didn't recognize him because the hair was covering his face and then I heard a familiar voice...
Ankit: Hi there…Shalini!
MY JAW DROPPED! When I heard this voice. (No way I said to myself.) Then he tucked his hair which was covering his face behind his ears. Then I realized and stood up from my chair and said...
Shalini: OH MY GOD! Ankit IS THAT YOU? (I said that out loud.)
Ankit: Yes. (shyly)
I still couldn't believe that standing in front of me is Ankit. I looked at my mom and she was shocked too. (She had her hand on her mouth.)
His hair was so long that it not only covered his back but his butt too. It was till his thighs, few more months and it will reach his knees. The length was not the only thing that was great the quality too. His hair looked like the hair we see in shampoo ads.
Neha: Both of you sit down first then you can talk.
I didn't realize that I was still standing and staring at him for more than 2 min.
As I sat down, I watched Ankit shifting his hair to the front as he sat on the chair. (Still surprised seeing the length.)
There was silence in the room. Both I and Mom were so shocked that we had no words until Aunty brought us glasses of water and said...
Aunty: We both had the same expression when we first saw his hair 2 days ago.
~~~~~~30 min Earlier~~~~~~
------Ankit's Point of view------
It was 5 PM I had my evening tea and was in my room watching videos on the Internet on my old computer. I took my hair out of my ponytail to let them down. Just as I was about to play a song, I got a call from my friend from college.
I picked it up...
Ankit: Hello.
College friend: Hi Ankit, did you reach your home?
Me: Yeah. I wanted to surprise them so I left the hostel 2 days before.
College friend: WHAT??
Ankit: Ahh wait a minute.
I closed my computer and went to our balcony.
Ankit: Is the audio better now.
College friend: Yeah. So how did they take the surprise and did they like your hair?
Ankit: They loved it! let me tell you...
I didn't even realize it was half an hour until I saw some familiar faces.
"Wait a minute is that Reshma aunty then the girl on the right must be Shalini." I thought to myself
"OMG, she is here," I said.
College friend: Who is she?
Ankit: It's Shalini I told you about her.
College friend: Yeah, I remember.
Ankit: Looks like they are coming here.
Just then, when I saw aunty looking over here, I instantly turned my back towards them.
Ankit: Thank God...I don't think they recognized me.
College friend: Why are you worrying about something like that?
Ankit: It's been years since we last saw each other and I don't know what she will think of me when she sees me like this.
College friend: OH, don't think about it Ankit, be strong!
I heard the doorbell ring; I quickly went to my room.
Ankit: Hey I will talk with you later.
College friend: I understand, Well all the best.
Ankit: Thanks.
I was having so many thoughts which were making me nervous.
A few minutes later I heard A bang on my door. It was my sister.
Neha: Hey Ankit, come out quickly SHALINI'S HERE!!
When I heard this, I took the brush and quickly adjusted my hair then opened to door.
Neha: She saw you on the balcony but didn't recognize you. Now, let us go down. They are waiting.
Me: Sis, I am a bit nervous.
Neha: Hey don't worry, you look great. I am sure she will be surprised but will never hate you. Let's go she is waiting.
We quickly rushed downstairs and went into the room. A soon as I saw her, in a state of panic I said...
Me: Hi Shalini! (In Panic)
(Because I rushed down the staircase some strands of my hair fell on my face, so I tucked them behind my ears.)
She was so shocked that she stood up from her chair and said...
Shalini: OH MY GOD! ANKIT IS THAT YOU?
She said that so loud that I became quite embarrassed.
Me: Ye...Yes! (I said embarrassingly.)
Then I finally had a good look at Shalini.
Every memory of her came rushing back.
She was wearing a black t-shirt with jeans her hair was tied in a ponytail that reached her waist. She was grown taller too. DAMN! she became so beautiful.
Neha: Both of you sit down first then you can talk.
Then I realized that I was staring at her a bit too much.
I adjusted my hair and sat down. No one spoke for what felt like hours so to break the silence, I turned to Aunty to say "good evening." but she still had that shocked expression. Looking at that no words came out of my mouth.
Finally, Mom came into the room with glasses of water and realized the situation, and said...
Mom: We both had the same expression when we first saw his hair 2 days ago.
From the next chapter onwards this style of dialog will change into paragraph style.
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
Chapter 3: Reasons.
‘Yeah, we both were so surprised when we first saw him with his hair this long!’ said Neha.
‘I know right! I am still trying to process it. I mean it is so long not even girls these days keep their hair this long at most they keep them till their waist.’ replied Reshma Aunty while taking a glass of water from my mom. (Shalini’s Mom)
‘That’s so true!, I knew he was growing his hair long but wouldn’t have guessed that he would grow them this long.’ Explained mom.
‘Not only his hair is long but the quality of his hair is amazing, just look at how healthy and straight they are many girls would die to have hair like this, they are just beautiful’
‘Thank you, Aunty!’ I replied embarrassingly while nervously adjusting my hair.
While both moms were chatting and asking questions to both of their children, Neha noticed that Ankit and Shalini haven’t spoken with each other but still were glancing at each other shyly. Then she said…‘Hey Ankit why don’t you take Shalini to your room, I am sure you too both have lot of catching up to do…I will be there soon (WINK)
‘Yes, take her upstairs I will call you when it's time for dinner.’ Said, Mom.
“BUT MOM…”
‘Go on now don’t let some aunties get between your reunion!’ ordered Reshma Aunty.
We both quickly got up and went upstairs to my room. I sat on my computer chair while she sat on the bed. It was a bit quiet for a moment then we both spoke…
“So how have you been?” We both said in unison.
“You-you go ahead first” replied Shalini clumsily. (She still looks cute while being clumsy.)
“I’ve been doing good, what about you?” I asked.
“I am doing good too, Sorry for being quiet down there, it’s just that I was so excited to meet you after a long time but I was so shocked seeing your new appearance.”
“Don’t be sorry I understand It’s been more than 6 years since we last saw each other.”
“Yeah, it’s been so long…but this room is still the same as ever.”
“My mom and sister were keeping it like that ever since I was away for studies.”
“The room is the same but you have changed so much, I never thought you will grow your hair this long, I still can’t believe it.
“You can touch it if you want to.”
“WHAT really? I can?” said Shalini. I can still see the spark of curiosity in her eyes. (she is still the same.)
“Yup!” I replied and got up and sat on a table near the bed.
As soon I said ‘Yup’ and sat on the table she stood up and quickly went behind and started checking my hair.
She started running her hands in my hair and said “Wow they are so silky smooth and thick I can’t believe I am touching a boy’s hair.”
I turned around and gave her a look.
“I mean look at your hair they are more feminine than most females and the length, your hair is way longer than mine & I have almost hip-length hair.” Shalini Explained.
“About that, I never intended to grow them this long but during the past one year all salons were closed due to covid so…” I replied.
“Ok…so how long we're planning to grow them till?”
“Umm at least till my hips,” I replied shyly
“That is still VERY LONG Ankit! I don’t think I ever saw a guy with hair as long as yours.
Just when did you start thinking of growing your hair longer?”
“I think It was during 8th or 9th std that I….”
“DURING SCHOOL!!!” Shalini said out Loud!!
“Volume!!” I exclaimed.
“Sorry, but during our school time, you never told me about this?” Shalini asked.
“I too was not much sure about it at that time, It was during 11th std that I finally decided to grow them long!”
“Ok, so what or who Inspired you to have long hair?” Asked Shalini
I looked at her and said, “It's you!!”
“What! me when?”
“Remember at one time you forced me to watch a movie with your mother.”
“I forced you many times to watch movies with me………wait a min is it that movie.”
Before 10 Years
“No, I don’t want to come that movie is for girls only!” I explained.
“It is not!”
“IT IS!”
“No it’s not, Just because it is a Disney princess movie does not mean it is only for girls!” replied Shalini.
We were discussing this while going home on our bicycles. Finally, we reached Shalini’s home.
“Please come with me, I don’t want to watch it alone!”
“Isn’t your mom coming with you?”
“She is but I need a friend with me and didn’t I come with you to watch ‘how to train your dragon’ Please come with me you will like ‘Tangled’ too!”
“Ahh ok, I will come with you!” I said while being defeated.
“Really! Thank you so much” said Shalini while hugging Ankit.
The Next Day
We all 3 reached the cinema hall. The Movie will start at 5 pm so we were 15 min early to buy the tickets.
“I am so glad you came with us Ankit.” Said Aunty.
“Yeah, me too.” I said while looking at Shalini and still not sure about the decision I made.
While Aunty was buying tickets, Shalini & I went to buy popcorns.
“Hey don’t worry this will be a great experience for you,” said Shalini while looking at me.
“I guess so.”
As soon as we got the tickets and the popcorn we went into the hall.
After the movie ended all 3 of us went to a nearby restaurant to have dinner.
“So how was the movie kids? Asked Aunty.
“I loved it, what about you Ankit? Asked Shalini while looking at me.
“It was OK!” I replied.
“Don’t lie I saw you smiling the whole time!”
“I liked it! ok now.” I said embarrassingly.
“YUP!” Said Shalini while smiling.
Dinner came and we were still discussing our favorite things in the movie.
“My favorite character was Rapunzel!” I replied excitedly.
“Oh, me too I loved how she can take care of herself even if she is alone, what did you like about her?” asked Shalini.
“I liked everything about her but her luscious golden hair was the standout for me, still sad that she cut them in the end,” I said excitedly.
“Yeah, that was quite sad, still I liked the happy ending.”
“Me too!.”
After some time on the way home, Shalini said…
“Hey Ankit, I have an idea, why don’t we try growing our hair like her!”
“You can try, but I can’t,” I replied.
“Why?” asked Shalini.
“It’s quite obvious, boys can’t have long hair & even Rapunzel is a girl…I can’t have long hair!”
“Again, with the boy and girl thing…didn’t you watch the movie with me and who said boys can’t have long hair there are many who keep them long like Johnny Depp, Hair doesn’t have any gender.” Explained Shalini
After she said that I thought about it all the way to the home. Finally, after reaching home, I said to her…
“You know what Shalini, you are right I will try growing my hair longer.”
“Really?!” Shalini said excitedly.
“Yup,” I replied.
“Promise me you won’t go back on your words.” Shalini Asked.
“I PROMISE!”
Present Day
“I still remember about that day but I didn’t think you were serious about that promise.” Said Shalini after I told her about the promise we made.
“Yeah, after that day I started thinking about having long hair & whenever I used to see someone with long hair, I used to imagine myself with their hair.”
“Omg, you never told me about this!” Exclaimed Shalini.
“Like I said, I was still not so sure during that time and truth to be told I was quite embarrassed at that time to talk with anyone about this.”
“Still didn’t we share everything back then and you didn’t even try to contact me after 11th std are you still angry about that conversation.”
“No I am not, I was angry at first but I understood your circumstances, I wanted to contact you but then you changed your number and I didn’t want to ask your Mom so…what about, you didn’t try to contact me,” I replied hastily.
“I too wanted to but life was really hard for us back then and when I wanted to I too didn’t have any way to contact you…. you didn’t even have any social media account.”
There was an Awkward silence in the room after a few min I spoke “Guess we both got busy in life!”
Shalini nods her head.
“I am Sorry!” we both said again in union and after a second, we laughed together.
Just then my sister entered my room and put a hand over Shalini.
“Sis at least knock!”
“Sorry old habits, so Shalini what is your thought on my brother’s sorry little sister new appearance, doesn’t he look cute in long hair.?” Asked Shalini.
Shalini took some locks of my hair and put it on my shoulder and said “Yup, He sure does a bit feminine but cute, way better than his old spike hairstyle.”
“Hey, that was the thing back then!!” I Exclaimed.
“Yeah right!” replied Shalini and all of us laughed.
We 3 chatted so much that we forgot to look at the time. ‘I missed this so much.’ I thought to myself. Both of them keep asking questions regarding my long hair like how did I keep them at college? what style do I like? How did you keep it like this? And many more.
After some time mom called us down for dinner. I was searching for my scrunchie to tie my hair into a ponytail. (tied hair doesn’t disturb during eating food.) “Hey sis did you see my black scrunchie?” I asked my sister.
“No, I didn’t see it.”
“Let it be, Shalini will you get me scrunchie from the bag near you?”
“Yeah, wait a min!” replied Shalini.
.
.
.
“Here take this.” Said Shalini while handing me a white scrunchie. I quickly brushed my hair back and tied my hair in a ponytail.
While looking at me Shalini said, “Hey you tied it the same as me.”
“Yeah, I tie it like that because of my length, If I tied it low it gets loose quickly,” I replied.
Shalini and Neha looked at each other and laughed. I didn’t understand why they laughed so I asked them “Hey, why are you guys laughing.”
“It’s nothing.” Replied my sister.
“OK, well let’s not keep them waiting.”
We went down sat to have dinner with everyone. Just then Reshma aunty said while looking at me…” Ankit you look so different with your long hair, you look so much like your mother in your ponytail.” (My mom was also wearing ponytail.)
“He got my looks while his sister got his dad's.” Replied my mom while my sister and Shalini were holding their laughter. Then I got why they were laughing at me back then and turned red in embarrassment.
After dinner, I and Shalini got out to have a walk near the garden while others were busy talking.
As we were walking Shalini said…
“It’s been so long since both of us got together and had fun like this.”
I nodded.
“And this is the first time that I was so surprised by you that I didn’t had words to describe it.”
“How many times will you bring that up!” I replied.
“I mean who would believe if I told them that you have grown your hair till your knees.”
“They are still not till my knees,” I said while pushing my ponytail back.
“In a few months they will be.”
“Well, then I have to cut them then...” as soon as I said that Shalini shouted!
“DON’T!!”
“Why?”
“They are better long.” Answered Shalini.
I was quite surprised by her answer because I didn’t think she would like me to have hair longer than her. “If you say so.”
“Well, enough about me…you are still the same.”
“WHAT?” said Shalini while staring at me angrily.
“I don’t mean appearance-wise, I meant behaviour-wise.”
“So you mean I am still like a child!”
“NO NO I meant like sweet, funny, and caring….” I replied hurriedly.
“I was just Joking Ankit, & Thank you……well what about appearance?” said Shalini while posing in front of me.
As soon as she said that I spoke without thinking what came to my mind first.
“You have become more beautiful and Ravishing since I last saw you!”
I quickly realized how embarrassing things I have said out loud. I thought she will shout at me for saying this thing but when I looked at her, I saw that she too was blushing.
If we were still the same Shalini would have shouted at me for saying things like that but I guess she too has changed over the years.
There was a silence for a min between us then I spoke “So-Sorry I didn’t think before I speak!”
“It Its ok.” Shalini stuttered.
Shalini got a call from her mother.
“It’s mom, we have to leave!”
“Yeah, it’s getting late let’s go home.”
While walking the way home Shalini said…
“Hey, Ankit You busy Sunday evening?”
“I don’t think so why?” I curiously asked her.
“Some of our classmates are going to meet up at the café near the mall, I am going will you come?” Asked Shalini while playing with her hair.
“I don’t know about that and I think my sister is also going with her friends so there will be no vehicle for me.”
“Come on…I am sure they will love to have you & I will pick you up on the way.”
“I will think about it!” I replied.
“Don’t think please come it will be fun meeting them. PLEASE!!”
She repeated ‘please’ all the way to the home. Too which I finally said, “OK stop it now, I will come.”
“YAY!” she said in excitement.
I sighed and said, “I still can’t argue with you can I?”
“NEVER!” Said Shalini while smirking.
We both reached home and saw everyone standing near the gate.
“Thank you for having us today, we got to go now it’s getting late.” Said Reshma Aunty.
“Let’s do this again at your place once you are finally settled Reshma.” Replied Mom.
“Definitely.”
While going to their home Shalini Shouted “Meet you on Sunday BYE!!”
“Sure, Bye, GOOD NIGHT!!” I replied.
“Where are you going on Sunday?” asked my sister.
‘JUST A MEETUP!!’
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
Chapter 4: A Fun Meeting.
——– 4:00 PM Sunday ——–
“Ankit, SHALINI is here!” Shouted my mom.
“Send her to my room, I’ll need some more time,” I replied to mom. ‘I slept too long.’ I said to myself
“Hey there!” I said while I was combing my hair straight.
“Hi, you are not ready yet?” asked Shalini.
“Yeah, sorry for being late, I fell asleep while watching a movie with Neha,” I replied.
Ever since I returned home, I have been sleeping a lot more than before, I guess that’s why people say that ‘home is the most comfortable place ever.’
“I am almost ready it’s just the hair that takes time.”
“Yeah, I understand, take your time!” replied Shalini.
After combing when I started to braid my hair Shalini kept looking with her eyes wide open…It was getting awkward so I asked her
“Wh-What is it? Something wrong with the hair?” I asked clumsily
“Nothing is wrong, It’s am still not over the fact that you have grown your hair this long hair & you even know how to braid!” Exclaimed Shalini.
“I understand that it’s been 6 years since we met but still you need to get over this! & if you have hair this long you at least need to know how to braid your hair. Anyway, it’s just a simple side braid.”
“Having said that, I never thought you will braid it so quick & it looks soo GOOD.”
I actually, wanted to have my hair done in french or twin braid but because I was late I have gone with the simple side braid, her reaction to that would have been amazing.
“Haha thanks, now can you pass me that blue scrunchie near the laptop?” I asked Shalini while combing the ends of my braid.
After tieing my hair I stood up, put the braid on the front, and asked her “So how do I look?”
Ankit with his braid.
“Overwhelmingly…CUTE!” Shalini said with a smile on her face.
I made an angry face & she said “I was just Joking you look Great!
“Thanks, I hope others will also feel this way.”
I was excited yet nervous about how others will react after seeing me like this.
While looking at me Shalini asked, “Are you nervous?”
“A little…” I replied slowly while trying to sound happy.
“Ohh don’t be nervous, you look great, everyone will like you coming there,” replied Shalini in a sweet & soothing way.
Hearing this from her made me quite confident & happy. Still, I replied sarcastically. I quickly wore a jacket & said
“We’ll see! Now let’s go I am ready.”
On the way down we both said bye to my sister, as I was going to open the main door my mom stopped me…
“Here take this.” Said my mom while handing me down a bottle of sanitizer.
“Thanks, I almost forgot it.”
“Yeah, and Shalini…”
“Yes, Aunty?”
“Please take care of my Son, It’s been a long time since he came here & got out so for today lookout for my….”
I interrupted my mom & said
“MOM, I CAN TAKE CARE OF MYSELF!” My mom always embarrasses me like that.
“But still…”
“MOM” I replied embarrassingly.
I can see Shalini was smiling while I was getting pampered by mom.
“Ok, Ok now, get going both of you, it’s already late Bye! be Safe!”
Shalini got ready on her Scooty (motor scooter or Moped)
I quickly wore a mask & sat behind her. We both said our goodbyes to my mother & drove away.
I didn’t know which cafe or restaurant we were going to, so I asked Shalini, “So exactly where are we going?”
“All I know is that It’s a new cafe named “Cafe Blue Night” which opened near the mall on GM road.”
“Ok, so who planned all of this you?” I asked her curiously.
“No, it was Priya & Sana who planned & suggested the cafe,” replied Shalini while stopping at a red light.
“Wait, PRIYA is coming!” I said her name so loud that even Shalini was stunned.
“She is, isn’t she. You know how it was between us during school.”
“It’s going to be fine, actually you might be surprised, I met her when I was in college, she has changed quite a bit.”
“Hope you are right!” I was concerned because we were like water & oil, always used to fight on little things. We tried getting along but it was quite hard for us.
“You will see when you get there, by the way, I am still kinda surprised about you wearing a braid!” exclaimed Shalini.
Now I knew she was trying to change the topic to lift my mood but I still went along with it because I didn’t want to ruin our mood so I replied.
“So how did you expect me to wear them?”
“Umm, I thought you would wear a bun or something.”
“Maintaining a simple bun is difficult for me now as my hair is quite long now it is tough for me to handle it &…I kinda like braids,”
It was getting very hard for me to wear buns since I passed hip-length hair. If I try to wear them normally, it gets untangled easily cause of the weight.
After a few seconds, Shalini started giggling and said…
“You sounded so much like a typical long-haired girl there lol!!”
“Shalini!!” Sounding embarrassed.
” But I get it, it gets harder to wear a bun when you have hair longer than waist-length & braid suits you better.”
“Th-thanks, you really enjoy teasing me huh?”
“A little, you look cute when you are angry-embarrassed Haha!”
“YOU!!!” I started poking her.
“Hey! I am driving here!”
& just like that, we reached near the mall. We didn’t see the cafe nearby so Shalini called Sana to ask its location.
“The cafe is actually inside the mall, they all are waiting for us in the cafe,” said Shalini while parking the vehicle.
After parking our vehicle, we took the elevator as the cafe was on the 3rd floor. As we were approaching the cafe I was getting more and more agitated. Just then Shalini said something which made me more anxious.
“I am very excited to see how they will react when they recognize you!”
“Wait, you told them I was coming right?”
With a smile on her face, she shook her face sideways and said…
“I just said to them that I am bringing someone special!”
Damn, She hasn’t changed at all, she always tries to make me face things like that while she enjoys it. We reached the cafe & as soon as we went inside we both were overwhelmed by the atmosphere there.
Painted in Midnight blue the cafe was looking extremely beautiful in the evening, mix with the welcoming aroma of coffee beans.
Soon we were interrupted by a familiar voice…
“Shalini Here!”
We spotted everyone sitting near the large window and went there.
I was hiding behind Shalini while we were on the way to the table & as soon as we reached a table a girl with bangs & extremely straight long hair came from behind & hugged Shalini. As she hugged her every girl noticed it and got up.
“I missed you Shalini, it has been so long.” Said the girl with bangs as she hugged her.
“Oh! I missed you too Priya!”
When she said her name I was astonished! (I had my jaw dropped.) When she pulled back from the hug I had a good look at her.
‘Shalini was right!!’ I said to myself. She has changed so much more than anyone present there. The last I saw her was a photo of her when I used to use Facebook. She used to have shoulder-length hair & definitely no bangs. If I remember correctly she absolutely hated having long hair. Damn, she even looks kinda beautiful now.
I quickly composed myself when she asked Shalini…
“So who is she?” Again with the ‘she’, even in men’s clothes do I look like a girl to her.
“It’s a surprise I’ll tell you in a little bit, for now, let’s greet everyone.”
“Ok, Btw you look kinda familiar!” She said while looking at my face. I tried to adjust the mask on my face and tried to hide my face using the side hair.
Both of them greeted & hugged each other while I was recognizing everyone. It was kinda awkward that I was the only boy there because including Priya & Shalini there was a total of 6 girls.
As they were greeting each other I can hear them saying…
“Hey, Shalini who have you bought?” – Sana
“Yeah who is she?” said Nisha
everyone was asking her similar questions so she finally came around me then she brought me forward and said…
“First everyone let’s sit down!” said Sana.
As I was about to sit Shalini stopped me and said “Not you, not until they guess who you are.” said Shalini with a sly smile on her face. I was a bit tense but I thought it will liven up the mood so I went with it. (Took my mask off.)
“Well girls, Can you guess who is this?” Asked Shalini to everyone.
“Can’t you just tell us?” said Kajal.
“It won’t be fun then & I want to see your reactions!”
“At least give us a hint.” Asked Anushka.
“Ok then umm….yeah we were all in the same school.”
Then they started discussing themselves.
(In a low voice) I asked Shalini. “Was this all necessary?”
“Come on, It’s fun!”
“Yeah right!”
Suddenly Priya spoke up
“Your face feels very familiar but I still can’t get it.”
“Yeah me too…It’s weirdly familiar!” replied Nisha.
“Is it…Muskan?” said Kajal.
“No I have seen her recent photo & she doesn’t look or dress this way,” replied Nisha.
“Do you know all of us?” asked Sana.
I looked at Shalini & she nod her head.
I didn’t want to spoil the fun so I spoke with the girliest voice I can speak.
“Yes, Sana I know everyone here!” I replied.
Shalini was giggling when she heard me speaking in this voice.
That’s when I heard…
“No-No-No-No-No that possibly can’t be him!” Said Nisha with a shocking look on her face while looking at Shalini. (She put her hand on her mouth.)
“Can’t be possibly what, wait a min……ANKIT!!!!” (She got up from her seat) Priya said it so loud that even the security guard at door could hear him.
“WHAT, are you really?” Asked Anushka.
“Yes, it is me!!”
“Holy S**t!” exclaimed Kajal.
While everyone was still processing my new look, Shalini was having the best time of her life. I can see her controlling her laughter. Then she got up and said…
“You guys sure took a lot of time, now let us welcome the newly transformed Ankit.”
“OMG! I still can’t believe it!” said Nisha.
“Is that hair Real?” asked Sana while pointing towards my braid.
“Yup 100% Natural!” I replied.
“Can I touch them?” Said Sana while she was ready to touch them.
“Sure go ahead!”
When I said that everyone came near me and started checking my hair out.
“They are so silky, looks like you took great care of them,” said Sana while holding my braid.
“They are not only silky but thick too, jeez I am Jealous of you now!” replied Priya with a smile on her face.
“And damn it’s quite long too!” said Kajal.
“Anushka, come here stand next to Ankit, & Ankit put your braid back.” requested Nisha.
When Anushka came near me, I quickly put my braid on my back.
“Now both of you please turn around.”
We did as she requested.
“See I told you, Ankit has longer hair than her,” said Nisha while pointing to my braid.
I was quite surprised when Nisha said it, I didn’t notice it before so I checked her hair and it was true. While the ends of my hair were almost to my knees, Anushka’s braid was just past her hips. (above her thigh’s)
“I knew it when I first saw his hair,” replied Anushka with confidence.
“Who would have thought that it will be Ankit who will beat you to it,” said Sana.
“Right, haha!” replied Shalini.
The thing was that from our school day’s Anushka always had the longest hair in our class & many girls tried to compete with her. Shalini and Nisha came close but were not able to grow their hair past hip length. I too used to envy her because of her hair length & thickness.
“What happened Priya? you’ve been quiet for some time,” said Shalini with a smile on her face.
I saw her face & she really was quite shocked seeing my hair.
“I am still kinda processing that he is Ankit because not even in my dreams, I would have imagined that Ankit will even grow his hair long, that too of this magnitude!” replied Priya with a brooding expression.
“I mean who would have, heck even I was at loss for words when I first saw him a few days back. “
Everyone nodded to her statement.
I looked at the waiter who was waiting for us, so I looked at my watch & said…
“Now-now it’s been more than 20 min now let’s order some food after that you can ask me as many questions you girls want.”
After the order for the food was given, the flood of questions was coming…
Shalini stopped them and said…”First of all, as a girl what do you think of his hair & how does it look on him?”
Anushka went first “They are absolutely beautiful, not only they are very long but they Silky Smooth too. His braid kinda looks like from the Shampoo/oil commercial we see!”
“And I don’t how but they suit his face too,” replied Priya.
“Yeah, he looks cute now, quite feminine but in a good way,” said Kajal.
That was the first time I heard someone say “Feminine in a good way” & didn’t know how to reply to this so I just said…
“Thanks, I guess.”
“She is right & it’s good that you don’t have any beard or mustache or it would not have looked as good,” explained Anushka.
I never was able to grow them at all, I asked my mother about it & she too said that even dad didn’t have proper facial hair. I guess my genes are like that.
“You know when I first saw you I thought were a tomboy girl because of the clothes lol! Said Kajal.
“If not for his clothes I don’t think I would be able to guess that it was you,” replied Nisha.
“Yeah when she said ‘HIM’ & looked towards Shalini, I knew it was you because the only boy Shalini will tease is you.”
Well, Priya was definitely right, Shalini is the only girl who would do something like this.
“But the main question is just why did you grow your hair this long?” Asked Sana.
“Yeah, Just why?” said everyone in unison.
Then I told everyone that I always wanted to grow my hair long for a long time but because the school didn’t allow us I never tried to grow them. (I didn’t tell them about the promise with Shalini.) While I was explaining this the food arrived. But they still were asking a lot of questions about me.
“Still Just how did you grow them this long, even most girls don’t grow their hair past waist length & you have them almost till your knees.” Said Anuska while eating a sandwich.
“& your hair looks so healthy too!” Replied Priya.
“I did not want to grow them this long, because of covid the salons were…”
“& here he goes again.” Interrupted Shalini.
“Ok, so what was your goal?”
When Priya asked me this everyone was looking at me and it made me a little embarrassed so I put my head down and slowly said “at least till hip length.”
“Huh, We can’t hear you?” Shouted Shalini.
“h-hip length at least” I fumbled.
When I saw the look on everyone’s face I was so embarrassed that for 2 min I was eating with my head down.
Then finally Sana spoke “Ankit…that is still long for a girl, let alone for a guy.”
“Right-right even I said the same thing,” replied Shalini.
“I…I know”
“Don’t get us wrong we are not against boys having long hair but it’s just the first time we saw a boy with knee-length hair.”
“That too this well maintained,” added Nisha.
(Everyone nodded.)
I never thought that Priya will speak up for me. Seeing that made me quite happy & comfortable.
“If not for the support I got for growing my hair I would never have grown them this long & I really love them like this.”
When I said that everyone had a smile on their face. After everyone was finished eating. Shalini ordered coffee for everyone. All of us started talking to each other about ourselves.
I talked with Priya…
“I got to tell you Ankit, I have never been so surprised in my life as today, I didn’t even recognize you!”
“I was surprised seeing you too, You look so different now even I was not able to recognize you.”
“haha, I get that a lot!”
“I mean look at that hair, & the bangs suit your face so much, It makes you look beautiful.” that just came out in the flow.
I can see she was embarrassed when I said…
“Sorry but it’s true.”
“Jeez thanks, you look great too!”
“Haha, Thanks!!” I said with I big smile.
& we both had a good laugh.
“Still didn’t you used to say that you hate having long hair?” I asked her.
“I used to say that didn’t I” (she let out a sigh)
“All I can say is some event led to this & now I hate short hair.”
I didn’t want to pry into it so I just laughed and said “good for you.”
“& I was kinda influenced by anime and Kdrama a lot so…”
“The bangs right!”
“Yeah!” replied Priya.
“Looks good on your straight hair though!”
“Thanks, you should try having them too!”
“NO, for now, this is enough for now.”
We both let out a laugh & everyone started looking at us.
Just like that, the coffee was over & we all went towards the counter to pay the bill.
“Sorry I have to go now, Help my mom with dinner.” said kajal.
“Yeah me too!” added Anushka.
“Wait a min we are coming too!” said Sana
“Sorry, we were not able to stay for long Shalini & Ankit,” said Priya.
“Don’t be sorry, we understand!” replied Shalini.
“Yeah!” I added.
“Next time we will make a plan for the entire day, & your attendance is compulsory!” Said Priya while pointing her towards me.
“I’ll definitely come, ma’am!” I replied.
“Promise you will, because we still have so many questions to ask about you,” said Anushka.
“I PROMISE!”
After that, we had a little talk on the way out and said bye to each other at the entrance of the mall.
“Damn what a day it way!” said Shalini.
“You’re telling me.”
It was an exhausting yet fun day. Everyone was so nice about the hair that I was very happy about it.
“By the end, it looked like you were now able to get along with Priya now,” asked Shalini.
“Yeah, she really has changed very much.”
“That she sure has!”
“BTW Shalini are you free for some time?” I asked her.
She looked at her watch and said “Yeah, it’s only 6:30, why?”
“I wanted to go to a Salon,” I replied.
“WHAT…..WHY?”
Hi Guys, Tomi here, hope you all enjoyed reading chapter 4 of childhood friends. I am Sorry if you feel the story is going slow it’s just that I don’t want to Rush the story & I want the crossdressing aspect to happen naturally.
Sorry for the delay stories like this takes quite some time to write.
Again Thank you for reading this and look forward to the next chapter.
"Excuse me!, Sorry!, Excuse me!"
I said while going through the crowd towards the entrance of the railway station to find my aunt who is been waiting there for me. My name is Kuntal Gupta 20 years old & I am moving to the city for my graduate study. I was very excited but nervous as I was 2 years late for it but because my cousin's sister (My aunt's daughter) who is 2 years younger than me is also joining college this year my mom told me to join with her.
Finally, I reached the entrance & finally put my bag down on a bench near the gate. I looked & looked for her everywhere but my aunt was nowhere to be found, so I called her up...Just when I thought the caller tune would stop she picked up...
"Anu aunty where are you? I am on the bench near the gate." I said.
"Look back!"
As soon as I looked back I was she embraced in a hug by my aunt.
"Oh my sweet Kuntal, It's been so long!" said Anu aunty while hugging me.
"Hey Aunty, how are you?" I said happily while thinking (Damn! she is big) I am 5.5 while she is almost a 6.
"I am doing great!" replied aunty.
"You know I almost didn't recognize you because of your hair, looks quite big." Said aunty while pointing towards my bun.
"Yeah, I've been growing them for more than 4 years now," I replied while touching my bun.
I loved long hair so when I passed my 10th standard exam I started growing them longer, mom was hesitant at first because I have a kinda feminine face & no facial hair. After some time, she too was into helping me maintain them. Since then, I never got my hair cut short. Now it was very long and thick too. I think it was because my mom was very sensitive about taking care of them.
"I heard from your mom that you've been growing them, but I didn't know it would be this long, still looks quite cute on you." Replied aunt.
I was taken aback by her saying 'cute' but didn't mind it much.
"Well let's go to my car!"
We went near her car, put my bags into the back of the car, and got going.
"Anu aunty I don't see Shweta?" I asked her. (Cousin sister)
"She is at her dance class, she wanted to be here but because your train was delayed she had to go, You know how much she loves to dance."
"Yeah, I know," I said while remembering some memories.
"Don't worry she said she will get at home as soon as possible."
Then she went on to ask about my journey here and my mom till we reached her home.
When we reached home she first took me to show me my room. It was simple but quite big and it also had a bathroom which was quite good
for me.
"Here you go, now get fresh in the meantime I will get the dinner ready for us."
Then she went and closed the door. I Called my mom to tell her that I have arrived at Aunt's house and then I opened my bag and took out the clothes and necessities. Then I went to take a bath.
After the bath, I came out & quickly wore a simple t-shirt and lower. Then I sat on the table near the mirror and removed the towel from my head & let my hair down. I took the dryer from the bag and started drying my hair. It takes quite some time due to the length and volume of my hair. Just when I finished brushing my hair I heard the door open and...
"KUNTAL...OH MY GOD!!" Said my sister with a hand on her mouth.
I put the brush down, got up, put the strands of the hair behind my ears, and said "Hi, Shweta!!"
"Kuntal are they real?" She said while pointing towards my hair.
"YEAH, I know they are long.."
She cut me off "LONG They are VERY LONG!, you have even longer hair than me, They are till your hips.
"I know," I replied.
She came near me and said, "Can I touch them?"
I put all my hair on my shoulder and said "Go ahead!"
She then started touching the hair and said..."Your hair is soo pretty, not only they are naturally straight they are so thick, Girls would die to have hair like you."
Then she got back and had a look at me "Though it looks quite feminine on your face, they suit you."
Just then I heard Anu aunty..."Shweta! Kuntal! Dinner is ready."
"We will talk later now let's go," said Shweta.
"Give me 5 min I'll tie them up and come down," I replied.
"Ohh don't tie them up it looks good as it is, now let's go."
As I was about to say something, she took my hand and took me with her.
We both sat at the dinner table, Anu aunty was still in the kitchen.
"Mom, did you see Kuntal's hair?" Shouted Shweta.
She came in with the plates.
"Yeah I saw his massive bun but now looking at them down is quite a sight, come over here let me have a look."
I went over & stood before her. Then she started checking my hair out.
"It's long & Looks like your mom took really good care of them because they look so healthy." said aunty while touching my hair.
"Yeah, she is very protective of them now, she even packed a whole bag full of hair accessories & hair care products," I replied as we went
over to sit at the dining table.
"Sound's like your mom." replied aunty while smiling.
"She did an amazing job, We both will try to help you as much as possible for your hair," said Shweta.
"I'll appreciate it."
After dinner, I went to help my Aunt & Sister to help in the kitchen. (she denied my help first but I convinced her.)
As I was keeping the dishes my aunt said...
"You look so much like your mom from her younger days."
"What mom had long hair?" I replied.
"Of course, she had, even longer than yours, didn't she tell you?" replied Aunt.
"No, Never!"
I don't think I ever saw my mom having her hair longer than mid-back length. I even requested her to grow them longer at certain times but she never grew them longer.
"When we were your age, long hair was the thing back then, almost every girl kept their hair down till the backs, & then comes your mom, She had the most beautiful hair in the college."
After finishing the work we all went to the hall and then aunt started again...
"Your mom had her hair till her knees, which were always well maintained not one strand out of place, our mom kept sure we keep them healthy. Girls in the college were very jealous of your mom's hair, & the boys were for your mom."
Both me and Shweta were listening to her.
"Whenever your mom used to have them down open or in a braid, everyone used to look back, People used to call her the 'rapunzel of the valley'. "
We were so immersed that we forgot to look at the time. Then aunt pointed out..."Look at the time, both of you go to your room we have a lot of work tomorrow."
"Yeah, tomorrow is the last date for the admission process," replied Shweta.
We went towards our room and said good night.
I quickly put my hair in a loose bun and got into the bed.
Mom never told me anything about her hair. I'll ask her when the time is right. thinking about this I went to sleep.
Characters
Rahul (Main Character) [Age: 15 ]
Sakshi (Rahul’s big sister) [Age: 19]
Aruna (Rahul and Sakshi mother) [Age: 40 ]
Akash (Rahul’s best friend and classmate) [Age: 15]
Shilpa (Rahul’s Classmate) [Age: 15]
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
Chapter 1: The Promise
Teacher: Rahul why haven't you had a haircut didn't I told you last week to get a haircut. Your hair is touching your shoulders now. How long are you going to grow them?
Rahul: Sorry ma'am, I will cut them soon.
Teacher: It better be soon or you will be punished.
Rahul: Yes ma'am.
[link: https://ibb.co/Q9vgx36]
As you guys assumed I am the one who is getting scolded for my hair which I was growing for the past 4 months because I wanted to try having the same hairstyle as Eren from my favourite Anime attack on titans. My sister supported me by saying that I should try new things now and then & My mom said that I will eventually get a haircut due to the strict rules of the school. (In India boys are needed to have short hair.)
It was Lunch break me and my friends were sitting and chatting,
Akash: Rahul you got scolded again by the teacher for your hair I guess you gonna get a haircut now.
Rahul: I think so, But I really wanted to try growing them a bit longer.
Then from my behind, I heard a familiar girl's voice it was Shilpa.
She shouted...
Shilpa: I knew you were gonna get a haircut because you are scared of your mom and the teachers.
Rahul: I am not Scared of anyone! It's just that...
Shilpa: It's just what they are excuses you are just a pussy.
I heard whispers around my class as everyone heard our quarrel.
Rahul: I am not a pussy I can even grow my hair longer than yours.
Shilpa: haha! can you even see? My hair is till my hips and I think I have the longest hair in our class. You can't grow your hair that long. You are too scared. Just admit it.
The whole class was watching me waiting for my response.
Rahul: Hey, you know what? I am gonna grow my hair way longer than yours. I Promise.
Shilpa: Ok lets say, if you get a haircut, you are a pussy. Do you agree?
Rahul: I agree and as you know I don't break Promise.
After we agreed she went outside with her friends and I sat down and started thinking how will I do This.
And Just like that 5 months passed and my hair grew past my shoulders till my armpits. I used to wear my hair in a ponytail or keep them open. I was scolded by my teachers a lot due to my hair but I used to make excuses and bunk my classes to ignore them. Even my mom and sister were shocked as I didn't get a haircut after a certain period But my classmates were impressed.
But all that changed one day.
It was Lunchtime when I was talking with my friends our homeroom teacher came to our classroom She looked at me and said...
Teacher: Rahul come with me.
Rahul: But why ma'am?
Teacher: Just follow me.
I stood up went to the teacher and started following her. When I was following her I was thinking of excuses as I thought it was the usual scolding I get.
When we entered the teacher's meeting room I saw many teachers and even the principal sitting in the room. They were all looking at me I was scared.
Teacher: Principal ma'am this is the student we have talked about.
Principle: So you are Rahul.
Rahul: Yes sir (scared)
Principle: So Rahul let's get straight to the point you are not only breaking the rules and regulations set by the school by growing your hair and not getting a haircut but also ignoring other teacher's repeated warnings in past months. You my boy deserved to be punished for this. I called your mother about this even she agrees. Do you have any excuses now?
I was so surprised, scared, and nervous I was not able to speak up.
Principle: Didn't think so. Since you like to have your hair long, According to the rules and regulations regarding hair longer than shoulder length one has to wear their hair in twin braids. (braided pigtails) Teachers are you ok with this?
Every teacher noded.
Rahul: But Ma'am I am a boy I can't wear a girl's hairstyle.
Principle: So what you have long hair like them. Even your mother agreed to this when I spoke to her earlier. Starting now you will have to wear your hair in twin braids.
My homeroom teacher and other lady teacher came to me grabbed my hand and sat me on the chair. My homeroom teacher started brushing my hair then parted it from the middle and then both of them started braiding each of the sides at the end they tied it with ribbons and rested both of the braids on my shoulder. Then they presented me to the principal.
[LINK: https://ibb.co/kmKHj8v]
Principal: You look so good in this. From now on every day you have to keep your hair tied like this ok.
I was red from embarrassment due to this. I said "ok" very silently.
Principal: Say it loudly.
Rahul: YES ma'am!
Lunch Break was over my homeroom teacher escorted me to my classroom. When I entered the classroom I put my head down to my embarrassment. Everyone was shocked and laughing. Even my friends. The teacher said no one will tease Rahul from now on for this he is only following rules regarding long hair. After school ended Shilpa came near me and said "You can get a haircut if you like but remember you made a promise & after all this, I hope you are not a coward!" She said this and left.
I went home hiding my hair in any way possible.
When I reached home my Mom opened the door. I was embarrassed facing her so I put my head down. My mom looked at me and hugged me. Than she said
Mom: Oh my sweet son don't be sad I know about your situation in school.
Rahul: Umm Hmm
Mom: we will talk about this later first go freshen up and change your clothes.
As I was going towards the bathroom my sister said...
Sakshi: Rahul is that you...OMG! I knew about your situation but you look so Good in braids.
Rahul: Sis don't tease me now (embarrassingly)
Sakshi: No really you do look good.
I ran towards the bathroom and closed the door then I saw myself in the mirror. I was surprised at how girly and cute I looked in braids. It was probably because how I looked more like my mother than my father and I don't have even a hint of facial hair on my face. I was admiring how the braids looked so cute on my face. Just then I realized what I was doing and said to myself "What the hell was I doing." After that, I quickly freshened up change my clothes, and went to my mother and said...
Rahul: Hey mom can you help with my hair? (As I was still wearing braids with ribbons.)
Mom: Ok come here sit down. By the way, your sister is right you look really good in braids.
Rahul: Mom!!
Mom: ok ok now sit straight.
Then she started undoing the braid and she said...
Mom: I was surprised when I got a call from school but I saw this coming when they talked about your hair. Why are you still growing your hair I thought you were gonna get a haircut.
When she asked about this I remembered my promise to Shilpa but I can't tell her this or she will think I am mad or something and force me to get a haircut so I lied to her.
Rahul: Mom to tell you the truth I really don't like short hair now I hate to keep them short. Please understand me mom I like them longer now.
Mom: If you say so, any way you look better in longer hair but you have to wear braids not only for school but here too as they are good for long hair Ok.
Rahul: Yeah (embarrassingly) and sorry you have to deal with my school problems.
Mom: Don't worry about that It's ok.
When she undid both my braids she started brushing them straight.
Rahul: Mom I want to ask you something?
Mom: Yes what is it, Rahul.
Rahul: How long does will it take to grow my hair till hips?
Mom: (surprised)Looking at your current length at least 2 to 3 years I think.
I have to wear braids for 3 years in school OMG I thought to myself.
After brushing my hair she put it in a ponytail and said...
Mom: Do you want to grow your hair till your hips?
Rahul: Yes Mom.
Mom: Then start taking better care of them.
Sakshi: I can't wait for your hair to grow that long.
Rahul: Sis you've heard everything?
Sakshi: Yes & I am so excited, I can wait to dress you up as my little sister and do your hair.
I turned red for embarrassment and started running after my sister as she teases me. Looking at both of us mom also started laughing.
And like that my Journey to grow my hair longer begins...
Chapter 2: Change in Lifestyle
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
As time passed I got used to the feeling of wearing twin braids in school. I preferred braids so much that sometimes I even wore them at home. But I was teased a lot at school due to my hair. Not only my friends and classmate used to tease me but sometimes also the teachers. Boy's used to pull my braids & Anytime I entered the class they used to make fun of me by calling me "Boy Rapunzel!" or "Rahul the Rapunzel! is here". Yup, that was my new nickname in school now. Only because of Akash I was able to go through school. He was the only one who did not make fun of me and supported me.
At home, my Sister & Mother were very supportive and happy about this. They taught me many things about long hair. My sister was especially happy. She used to do various hairstyles with my hair, she taught me some too and said she used to say "I can't wait for your hair to get long." (she has waist-length hair) Whenever I lose some bet or challenge to her she used to force me to wear girl's clothes. Which I think she enjoyed the most. Mom & Sis also used to take me with them to their salon to have my split end trim which caused my hair to look more girly than ever. Even the hairdresser used to say that my hair was more feminine than most girls. Too which I agree because my hair is thick, shiny, and naturally straight which looks very feminine on me. (credit goes to my mom genes) But the time I enjoyed the most at home was when Mom used to Oil and Massage my and sis hair. The feeling was indescribable in short I loved it. I think mom enjoyed doing this too she used to tell me stories about her childhood about how her mother used to oil and massage her hair.
[ Link: https://ibb.co/bKXX8Yt ]
Like that 6 months has passed my hair has got way longer. To which my sister said I have a little bit longer than mid-back length. Because of that I always had to keep my braids in front of my shoulders or the guys at the back used to pull them. I also learned that I can change the partition in twin braids I tried changing them but it didn't look good on me even my mom said it doesn't suit my face it looked good on open hair but not in braids so wore the usual middle partition even if looked more girly. Akash also used to say that the way I keep my hair seems also seems girlier now but I thought it must be due to the habit of having long hair.
Some day's later.
Mom: Hey Rahul wake-up it's morning already yo gonna be late and
Mom & Sakshi: HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAHUL!!
I was surprised and startled when I woke up like this.
Rahul: Thank You Mom! (HUG) & Thank You, sis! (HUG)
Mom: Now freshen up and get ready or you will be late for school.
I was very excited about today because I can finally celebrate my birthday in school. I wasn't able to celebrate the previous year because it came on Sunday. I was also happy that I can wear casual clothes to school today. (In India many schools allow children to wear casual clothes on their birthdays.) My sister did my hair today Instead of my Mom. She did my hair in a single braid but it was somehow different. She said that this style of braid is called French-Braid. I saw it in a mirror and truth to be told it looked kinda cool.
It looked like this-
[ Link: https://ibb.co/z8sDLxn ]
The first friend to wish me was Akash because we used to go to school together. When I reached the school everyone wished me "Happy Birthday" Even the principal who I met on the way to the classroom wished me. When I reached my classroom everybody sang to me a birthday song and wished me. I heard some comments like "Happy Birthday Rapunzel!" but I didn't mind that because I didn't want that to ruin my mood on my birthday. During LunchBreak, I gave chocolates to the Teachers and my classmate and I also received some in return. When I was talking to Akash I heard...
Shilpa: Hey Rapunzel!
Rahul: Who is it (I turned back) Ohh it's you.
Shilpa: Happy Birthday!
Rahul: (surprised) Thank You.
and she left. I asked Akash...
Rahul: What was that?
Akash: I don't know either.
Rahul: I can't understand girls.
Akash: Me neither.
We looked at each other and laughed. I was also complimented on my hairstyle too not only by my class girls but the most popular girl in school also said my hair was "Cute and cool." Akash teased me because of this by saying "Someone is getting popular!"
Just like that school was over. I invited Akash over to my birthday party at night.
I reached home and my mother asked...
Mom: So how was school today?
Rahul: It was great Mom I got Wished by so many people and got some chocolates as a gift too
Mom: (Smilingly) That's so sweet now go freshen up and change into your new clothes for the party.
Rahul: ok mom.
Mom: And don't forget to keep your chocolates in the fridge or they will melt.
Rahul: OK.
I went near the fridge and opened my bag to take out the chocolates. After taking all the chocolate out I noticed a gift box with a birthday card stuck on it. I don't remember anyone giving me this. I quickly stuffed the chocolates in the fridge and ran to my room. I sat down on my bed took out the gift and started reading the birthday card.
I was very Happy reading the content but was very curious about the S.A.M. Then I proceeded to unwrap the gift box. It was A drawing Pencil Set! I was surprised at how did he/she know that I draw I didn't tell anybody that. (Not even you guys.) Only a few people knew about this. Now I got more curious after this. Just then my sister entered the room. She saw the card and said...
Sakshi: You got a card let me see.
I gave her the card and she started reading it and said...
Sakshi: S.A.M huh, you know anyone by this name?
Rahul: I Don't know anyone by that name. I just noticed this in my bag when I was taking my chocolates out and also I got this drawing pencil set.
Sakshi: This looks expensive. She must really like you.
Rahul: SHE!?
Sakshi: Yeah the handwriting looks like of a girl.
Rahul: Ok. I thought it was a boy’s name.
Sakshi: It must be a nickname and SAM is a unisex name.
Rahul: Yeah that can also be true.
Sakshi: Anyway here are the clothes for the night and go get a bath while the water is still warm.
Rahul: Umm-hmm. (Still thinking.)
Then She left to help my mom.
I said to myself "I'll try to ask Akash if he knows something." I quickly freshened up & dressed up. Just then my Mom came into my room and said to go into her room and wait for her. She came and said...
Mom: Come sit here.
I sat there and then mom undid my braid and started brushing them gently.
Mom: It's good that you have naturally straight hair like me and your sister.
Rahul: Yeah I like them like this too but they are a bit girly I guess.
Mom: Healthy long hair looks like that. But long hair looks really good on you. I think they look better than short hair.
Rahul: Many people have been saying that. (I said remembering the gift card.)
After brushing them straight she came in front of me and started styling them. She side-parted my hair then and some of the hair to the other side. It covers my whole ear and on the other side, she tucked all my hair on the ear.
My hairstyle kinda looked like this-
[ Link: https://ibb.co/rdS3gRk ]
Mom: & for the finishing touch...( she got a lipstick in her hand.)
Rahul: MOM! why are you putting on lipstick? I'll look like a girl!
Mom: Don't worry it is a very light shade no one will even notice & nowadays many men wear lipsticks.
Rahul: But mom...
She looked at me with a scary face so I agreed with her.
Mom: Go stand there let me have a look.
Rahul: Ok (I went beside the window and stood there.)
Mom: Wow you look so beau-, handsome like a model.
Rahul: (embarrassingly.) Thanks to you.
Mom: Your welcome! now go to your sis. So I can get ready for the party.
Rahul: Ok mom and again thanks for this.
Soon guests started arriving. Mom didn't invite many people only some family friends and some relatives. Many of my cousins were shocked to see my hair. But complimented my new look. Akash arrived last.
After he arrived my mom bought the cake from the kitchen and
We started the birthday and cake cutting ceremony. After cutting the cake everyone wished me and gave me gifts.
Sometime later.
Akash: You look great and nice hairstyle.
Rahul: Yeah thanks to my Mom. By the way, do you know anyone giving me gifts in school?
Akash: I was with you the whole day so I don't think so. Why?
Rahul: I found a birthday card and a gift-wrapped drawing pencil set in my bag.
Akash: What!
Rahul: Yeah! (Smilingly)
Akash: Someone must have slipped it into your bag when we went to the library. What did the card say?
Just as I about to tell him, my (cousin) little sister came to us and said
little sis: big brother why are you wearing lipstick.
I got very embarrassed as many people heard that.
Just then my sister came and said to her.
Sakshi: Sis it is not lipstick he has applied lip balm that's why his lips are shining.
"Thank God," I thought to myself I slowly went to my sister and said to her in her ear.
Rahul: Thanks for rescuing me I owe you one.
Shilpa: It's ok and it must be Mom who applied it.
Rahul: Yeah.
After that, I told Akash about everything regarding the gift. To which he was surprised too and started teasing me about it.
And Just like that, my birthday was over.
2 months later.
It was the last day of school before the summer holidays.
Rahul: Finally school is over.
Akash: yeah. (silently)
Rahul: Akash what happened you were so quiet today?
Akash: Rahul I got to tell you something.
Rahul: Tell me.
Akash: Don't be sad or angry.
Rahul: ok (I was scared when he said that.)
Akash: I am going to another city with my family.
Rahul: A family trip, what’s sad about that. I thought you had a disease or something.
Akash: Rahul… I am moving…Permanently.
Rahul: What?!
To be continued in next part…
Chapter: 3 Holidays
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
Akash: Yeah I know!
Rahul: What's the reason you are moving?
Akash: You remember my dad got transferred to another city for work a month ago.
Rahul: Yeah you told me about this.
Akash: Now he is calling us all there because he won't be able to travel much. He has made all the arrangements.
Rahul: So when you all are leaving?
Akash: In a week or so.
Rahul: When did you know about this?
Akash: Just yesterday, My Mom said she wanted to wait until my school year to finish.
I was shocked when I heard this. I mean who wouldn't be.
Akash: You aren't angry or sad are you.
Rahul: Why would I be, I am happy that you told me this early so we can enjoy these last days as much we can.
Akash: Thank You for understanding.
Rahul: Let's start from today you are coming to my home for a sleepover. We will Watch Anime the whole night.
Akash: Now that's a good plan.
A Week Later
Akash: We had so much fun over this week I will never forget them.
Rahul: I know right.
I and my sister were at the railway station to help Akash's family with the luggage.
The Train Arrived.
Akash: I got to go now.
Rahul: Yeah. I hope you find your find your Hinata (soul-mate) in the new city. (Yesterday we finished watching the whole anime that's why it was still in our minds.)
Akash: Ha-ha I will. I think you probably will find her first.
Rahul: Huh! And why is that?
Akash: Just a quick prediction.
My sister and Akash's mom came to us after confirming their seats.
Akash's mom: Both of you thank you very much for helping us.
Rahul: You don't need to thank us Akash is like a brother to me and you a mother.
Akash's Mom: Ohh what a sweet boy. (She kissed me on my forehead.)
Akash's mom went to the stall to take some water bottles for the journey.
Sakshi: Aren’t you guys have a last hug.
Akash and I looked at each other and said...
Rahul: We don't do stuff like that.
Akash: Yeah.
We did our signature handshake.
Sakshi: Boys! (sigh)
Akash: Hey and a final thing. I don't think I had said this before but I say it. Long hair really suits you don't ever cut them short.
Rahul: (I was a bit surprised when he said that.) If you say so. (I said while touching my ponytail.)
[ Link: https://ibb.co/hdJFLhc]
Akash's Mom: Let's go Akash.
Akash: Yeah mom I am coming.
We looked at each other a final time and had a hug eventually.
Akash: No regrets!
Rahul: No regrets!
He boarded the train and waved his hand.
Akash: Bye Rahul and stay strong!
Rahul: Yeah and call me when you reach there.
And they left.
Sakshi: What happened there? (Teasing me about the hug)
Rahul: That was an exception.
For a few days I wasn't much sad because I talked with him every day on phone but eventually, I missed our little adventures. My mom eventually realized that my mood was off, so she suggested that we should all go to her mother's hometown. ( To our grandparent's home.) As we haven't been there in 2 years due to my mother's job.
After 1 week.
We reached the station and saw my aunt (mother's sister-in-law) waiting for us.
Mom: Rashi here.
Rashi Aunty: Hey guy's you finally arrived.
Mom: Yeah the train was running late.
Sakshi: Rashi Aunty (hug) I missed you so much.
Rashi Aunty and my Sis get together really well.
Rashi Aunty: Me too Sakshi, btw where is Rahul?
Rahul: I am here.
Rashi Aunty: OMG I almost didn't recognize you because of your hair. I mean look at your braid it's so thick.
[ Link: https://ibb.co/0D2CNXn]
Rahul: (little embarrassed) I know I get it a lot.
Rashi Aunty: Come on we will talk later grandma is waiting.
She had a car waiting for us. We quickly put our luggage in the bag and went inside the car to finally escape from the heat.
Mom: Is Deepak (Mom's Brother.) still out of town.
Rashi Aunty: Yeah he said he wouldn't be able to return due to work until next month.
I was sad hearing that Uncle will not be here because he was the only one I used to have fun with.
Rashi Aunty: I heard from your mother that you were growing your hair but never realized you will grow them this good.
My Aunt worked as a makeup artist and hairstylist.
Sakshi: Right! don't they look great on him?
Rashi Aunty: They sure do.
We reached Grandma's home.
As soon I saw my Grandma. I hugged her. After me, my sister hugged her too.
Grandma: Ohh dear, I missed you all.
Rahul & Sakshi: We all missed you too.
Grandma: You've both grown so much & look like someone is growing their hair longer.
Rahul: (touching my braid) Yeah.
Grandma: We will talk later first all of you freshen up and get a rest you all must be tired from the travel.
Ajay: brother you are here.
Rahul: Jai how you been? ( Ajay is my 7-year-old cousin's brother. )
Ajay: I am Fine brother. how are you?
Rahul: Great.
Ajay: You look so different, brother. & why are you wearing a braid like my mom.
Rahul: (embarrassed) Uhh!
Rashi Aunty: Son let Rahul brother rest he must be tired from traveling.
Rahul: Yeah Ajay we will play later.
Ajay: Promise.
Rahul: Promise.
We all got a bath had a little talk during dinner and slept.
The next day my mom and sister were busy talking with Aunt and grandma while, I played with Ajay for the most of the day.
It was evening me and Ajay were watching a movie on TV when I heard my aunt…
“Rahul come here, Grandma is looking for you.”
I saw my Grandma sitting on a chair near the window. She saw me and said…
Grandma: Rahul come here sit before me.
I saw the oil and comb and understood what was going to happen.
Rahul: Grandma this isn’t necessary.
Grandma: Rahul I know you like oil massage your Mom told me.
"Typical Mom' I thought to myself. I went toward my grandma and sat in front of her. She undid my braid and started Brushing my hair to remove the knots.
After a min or so grandma said...
Grandma: Did you know, Your mom also liked having massages when she was your age.
Rahul: Yeah she told me so.
Grandma: I heard from your mom that you are planning to grow them longer than now. How long are you...
Rahul: (hesitatingly) Till my hips.
Grandma: Ohh that's long.
Rahul: Yeah...& Grandma, I wanted to ask you something?
Grandma: ask ahead.
Rahul: To tell you the truth I was afraid that you might scold me for having long hair.
Grandma: You know at first I was a bit hesitant when your mom told me over the phone that you were growing long hair. I thought it would look bad on you. But seeing you and your hair yesterday I was surprised at how good you look in long hair a bit girly but good. And why would I scold you over something like this even your grandpa had long hair in his teens.
Rahul: WHAT Grandpa had long hair!?
Grandma: Yeah, not as long as you but long enough. He looked great in them. But he had to cut it due to his family pressure.
Rahul: Wow, I never knew that. But why didn't he grew them again?
Grandma: He never got the chance because he was too busy working.
Rahul: Ohh that's sad.
I was kinda happy to hear that even Grandpa had long hair. After Grandma brushed my hair she divided my hair into 2 parts from the middle and started applying oil & massaging my hair. The feeling of massaging felt so good that I said it out loud.
Rahul: Ohh I love this.
Grandma: Hehe! I know.
Rahul: Did I said that out loud.
Grandma: Yup! By the way, you really have great hair! Many girls will die to have like this.
Rahul: (Shy) Thank You.
Grandma: I think Long hair suits you better than short hair.
Rahul: I've been hearing that a lot lately.
Grandma: Well It's true.
After she finished oiling she started braiding my hair in a twin braid.
[ Link: https://ibb.co/rwwRGFT]
Rahul: A twin Braid!
Grandma: Yes! This is better if you going to grow them longer.
Rahul: If you say so.
Grandma: Having long hair is going to be hard Rahul especially at the length you are going to grow. You are going to deal with many hardships. Not all people are going to accept long hair on a boy so Promise me you will stay strong throughout this.
Rahul: (I was a bit surprised and scared when she said that.) I Promise.
Grandma: Good. Your braid is done too. Go there let me have a look.
I got up and stood in front of her putting my braids on the shoulder.
Grandma: You look so Cute just like how your mom was when she was your age.
Rahul: Grandma, Please don't tease me. (Shyly)
Grandma: No really! look in the mirror. Those braids look perfect I can't wait to see how you will look when your hair has grown to the hips.
I went to the mirror and saw them. Grandma was right they do look good.
Rahul: Yeah I guess they kinda look good.
Grandma: Kinda?
Rahul: They look great. Ok NOW!
Grandma: Yup.
Rahul: Thanks for this.
Grandma: You are Welcome. Now go get some rest I can tell that you are feeling sleepy.
Rahul: Yeah. Goodnight Grandma.
Grandma: Goodnight, sweetheart.
As soon I laid on the bed, I was fast asleep.
The next day when I woke up my mom saw me and said...
Mom: Rahul, I can understand the braids but why are you wearing lipstick that too in the morning.
Rahul: Wait...what? I don't remember Grandma applying lipstick.
Mom: Go look yourself in the mirror.
I quickly went to the bathroom and checked myself in the mirror.
It was true... I was wearing red-colored lipstick but who...then I heard someone laughing from behind.
It was my sister!
Rahul: I should have known it was you!
I ran behind her to chase her but my mom stopped and said...
Mom: I get what happened but why are you worrying that much just wash your face.
Rahul: But Mom...
Mom: Go now!
I went to the bathroom and washed my face. I thought to myself that this was the right thing to do if I had chased her through the house everybody would have seen me.
After freshening up I went to the dining table to have breakfast. I think I was the last one to arrive.
Ajay: brother why are you wearing your hair that. (giggling) You look like a girl.
I was red from embarrassment when he said that and my sister was holding her laughter.
Rashi Aunty: AJAY apologize to your brother now!
Ajay: But Mom he is wearing twin braids.
Rashi Aunty: What is wrong with that. He has long hair he can wear anything he wants.
Grandma: Ajay, there is nothing wrong with wearing braids if you have long hair and hairstyles don't have any gender.
Rashi Aunty: Grandma is right. Anyone can wear any hairstyle regardless of their gender.
Hearing this I understood what Grandma said to me last night. After Our breakfast, Ajay came to me and apologized. In the evening we all went to the mall where we all had fun. While Mom, Sis, and Aunt were shopping, Ajay and I went to the game Zone.
And just like that my Summer Vacation was over!
and school started with a SHOCK!
Chapter: 4 Hardship!
{NOTE: Images and links are used only as the reference to the character in the story}
It's been 5 months since I came back from grandma's home. My school has started and it's been getting quite hard for me there. And then there is my hair which has now grown considerably longer, I think because my mom had been applying oil, hair mask & giving me hair supplements my hair has grown quite faster.
My sis said that they are somewhat longer than waist length now. (Because they were looking longer than hers.) Now, It takes longer to do braids and the ends of my braid kinda touch my hips. I was happy that they were growing long faster but it is getting hard to maintain them. Boy's now have been consistently teasing me. Whenever I stand in a line or forgot to put the braids on my shoulder the boys start to play with them. I didn't want anyone to worry, so I did not tell anyone about it.
SCHOOL AFTER LUNCH.
I was not feeling well so I went to the staffroom to find my class teacher...
I heard a voice...
"Rahul, what you are doing here?"
I saw the ma'am coming towards me.
I took the braids from my back and placed them on my shoulder.
Rahul: Ma'am I am not feeling well.
Ma'am: I can tell from the look on your face.
I told her I was having some mild headaches & was kinda nauseous.
Ma'am: Must be the heat, come with me.
She took me to the medical room and gave an glucose water.
Ma'am: For the time being you can rest here & if you want to you can undo the braids.
Rahul: Yeah, thank you, ma'am.
Ma'am: Take care, If you need anything you can talk with the ma'am sitting over at the desk.
She said this and left to attend her class.
I kept my bag at the side of the bed and laid down. I don't know when but I fell asleep like a log.
"Kid WAKE UP! WAKE UP!" I heard & immediately woke up and saw the ma'am next to me.
"Kid it's been past 5 PM, school's over." I looked over to the clock.
Damn, I am late, I promised mom I'll help with the cleaning today. I quickly took my bag & got out of the bed.
Ma'am: Are you feeling fine now?
Rahul: Yes ma'am. (I said while adjusting my braids.)
"Thank you I'll get going now."
I quickly exited the room & rushed towards the gate.
When I near the corner rushing towards the exit I did not pay attention and hit some boys.
I was in a rush so I quickly said..."I am very sorry." & I got up and was going my way just then one of the boys grabbed my bag and pulled me towards them.
Tall Boy: Ohh look who we got here!
Boy 2: The Boy Rapunzel of the school.
Boy 3: Why are you rushing, did you forget your skirt?
All 3 of them then started laughing.
From the looks of them, all were seniors. (Great my day just got bad to worse.) I didn't want to waste my time so I just said...
Rahul: I am very sorry, I am not feeling well, can I go?
Boy 2: From the way you were running over here, it doesn't seem that anything wrong with you.
I looked over the corridor if someone was there but it was all empty.
Tall Boy: Where are you looking, first you are not apologizing properly, & even lying to your seniors.
Boy 3: Look's like you need to be instructed on how a junior should behave.
All of them then surrounded me towards the boy's washroom.
Boy 2: So what should we do with him?
Tall Boy: Him? look at how long and girly her hair is, she is not him.
Boy 3: Yeah no she is also wearing braids like the other girls.
"I am not a girl!" I said silently.
Tall Boy: Then why are you wearing your hair this long, that too in braids?
I kept quiet.
Tall Boy: See I told you.
"I am not a GIRL!" I shouted.
Boy 2: guys get him!
Suddenly 2 of them grabbed both of my arms and pitted me towards the wall.
"Hey what are you doing!" I shouted.
Boy 2: SHHH! (While keeping a finger on his mouth.)
Now I was so scared that no words were coming out of my mouth.
He then came near me and slowly took both of my braids and placed them on my shoulder.
Boy 2: Would you look at that, her braids are reaching till her belt & she still proclaims that she is a boy.
"It's just hair, & hair doesn't have gender," I replied.
Boy 2: if it is just hair then...
He then took out the scissors from his bag and spoke
Boy 2: Then you won't mind if you lose them.
When I saw the scissors, my heartbeat increased and I started struggling.
"No, please anything but that, please don't cut them!" I protested and struggled but it was of no use.
He came near me and as soon as the scissors were near my neck, I heard a voice...
"MA'AM! STUDENTS ARE BULLYING SOMEONE IN THE BOYS' WASHROOM."
As soon as the boys heard that, the Boys ran out as soon as possible.
I was so much in shock that I fell and passed out.
After some minutes, I felt someone was spraying water on my face, so I woke up.
Rahul: WWHO? (I rubbed my eyes)
Girl: Wake up, are you ok?
Rahul: Shilpa? (I was surprised)
Shilpa: Yeah?
Rahul: THE SENIORS?
Shilpa: They ran.
I quickly stood up.
Shilpa: First, let's go find a place to sit.
She took me to the nearest bench and gave me her water bottle.
Shilpa: You ok now? What happened? I heard some noise so...
I explained to her everything from the medical room to now. After I finished explaining my situation, she hugged me and said...
Shilpa: It must have been so hard, you did well to keep them stalling.
When she said that, tears started rolling down my eyes.
Shilpa: Ohh don't cry here take this. She handed me her handkerchief.
Rahul: Ever since Akash left, the past few months have been so hard.
Shilpa: I can understand.
I then wiped my tears and said...
Rahul: I'll wash and give this to you tomorrow.
Shilpa: Don't worry keep it.
Rahul: By the way where is ma'am?
Shilpa: There is no ma'am, I just made that up to save you. (Grinning)
Rahul: That's wild!
Shilpa: But we still have to tell this to a teacher.
Rahul: But we don't have anything against them.
Shilpa: Who says that!!
She said while showing me the scissors.
Rahul: NICE!!
Shilpa: we will go after lunch break tomorrow.
Rahul: Yup.
Shilpa: It's getting late, let's go.
Both of us went out of the school and took out bicycles.
Rahul: By the way thank you very much for saving me back then.
Shilpa: I am very sorry!
I can see tears well up in her eyes.
Rahul: Why are you apologizing?
Shilpa: This all happened because of me, because of that stupid promise.
Rahul: But I am the one who accepted it, so it's not your fault.
Shilpa: Still, if you want you can cut them, I don't mind.
Rahul: Nah, I have them grown this much already & like I said before I don't ever go back on my promise. (I said while having one of the braids in my hand.)
Shilpa: Yeah, they are quite close to my length now.
She stood next to me to compare our hair lengths.
Her braids were past her belt down to her skirt.
Shilpa: looking at the speed they are growing they will probably reach your hips in the next 4-5 months.
Rahul: Yeah, my sister also said the same.
Shilpa: Looking at you properly now, I think long hair suit's your face more than your old hair.
Rahul: Everybody's saying that, but it's so hard to manage them.
Shilpa: I know haha!
Rahul: Hehe!
We both then got out of the school and started riding on the way to our homes.
Rahul: Btw, what were you doing this late?
Shilpa: I have been doing dance Practice for our upcoming event.
Rahul: Annual Event?
Shilpa: Yeah.
We talked a bit and eventually, we reached our pathways.
Shilpa: So, this is my corner. (She said while pointing towards her lane.)
She just lives two blocks away from my home.
Rahul: Ohh ok, then thank you again for today.
She nodded her head and smiled. And just as I was about to leave...
Shilpa: Hey Rahul, you know what, you should come to see us tomorrow after school in the auditorium, I'll also introduce you to my friends, that is if you are ok with it. (While playing with one of her braids.)
I was a bit surprised she asked this...
Rahul: Umm, I'll think about it.
Shilpa: Really! Ok, then I'll go Bye, Take Care!!
Rahul: Bye!
And she was gone, I too then peddled faster on my way home.
As I reached home, I was getting scared that mom will scold me, but still, I pressed the doorbell.
As soon as she opened the door, she hugged me and spoke
Mom: Are you ok Rahul? I got a call from the teacher that said you were not feeling good & it was getting late so I was worried.
Rahul: Mom calm down, I am ok now, I just slept and didn't know school was over. (I did not want to tell her about today's incident.).
Ok go get freshen up now, we will talk over dinner.
At dinner, I explained everything to her, just not the incident.
After the dinner was over, she called me and told me to sit in front of her.
I already had my hair down so she started brushing them straight...
Mom: It has grown so long, & they look so healthy. (Combing...)
Rahul: Yes, all thanks to you. (I love when my mom brushes my hair it feels so soothing.)
Mom: You know they are now longer than your sister’s, right?
(She was studying in her room.)
Rahul: Yeah, but...
Mom: I know you want to grow them even longer, but you can probably do any hairstyle you want for long hair now. (Combing them back.)
Rahul: Still, I want them as long as possible.
I was so mesmerized by her hair brushing that, I was speaking whatever was coming to me first.
Mom: You love having long hair that much? (She then started sectioning and braiding my hair.)
Remembering the conversation with Shilpa I asked my mom
Rahul: Mom, do you think long hair suits me more?
Mom: hmm, why do you ask that?
Rahul: It's just that everyone I know is been saying that long hair looks good on me.
Mom: To tell you the truth you do look like a girl because of how long and beautiful your hair has been growing...
Rahul: MOM!! (I shouted and was about to turn my head but she stopped me and continue braiding.)
Mom: BUT even I am shocked how good you look in this hair...so It's kinda cute, still you haven't answered the question the previous question...
Rahul: OK, I love it alright.
Mom: Haha! ok.
She then put a scrunchie at the end of the braid. As I was about to get up she said...
Mom: Rahul by looking at the speed of how your hair is growing, I think when we will next visit your grandma's house next summer, your hair will be till your thighs.
Rahul: You think so? (I said while touching the tips of my braid.)
Mom: Umm hmm (she nodded) &
Rahul: Mom it's getting late, I have to wake up for school tomorrow.
Mom: I know, I just want you to know that I & your sister will always be there for you, so if there are any problems you are facing, please tell us.
Rahul: (I smiled) I will mom, Good Night!
Mom: Good Night son!
I went to my room and then went to bed. I was looking at the ceiling thinking about my day. So much happened today. The Senior's then Shilpa! If not for her I don't know what would have happened to me. She was so different today than her usual self. She was Kind, Caring & funny too. It's true what people say about how to not judge a person without knowing them properly. Then I remember her asking me to see her dance practice. Thinking about it I fell asleep.
Chapter 1 : Unfortunate Humiliation
My name is Ren Miyahara I am in the last year of my Junior high at Kyo High School in Kyotamba. As I was on my way home from school I suddenly remembered that I had forgotten my notebook, I rushed towards my classroom and picked up my notebook, and exited the classroom. As I walked down the corridor towards the school entrance. I noticed that the door of the girl's changing room was half-opened.
That mostly never happened, and I usually don't mind it at all, but for some reason, I was worried about it today, so I approached the women's changing room to close the half-open door and knocked on it to check whether anyone was inside before locking the door.
I tried to close it because there was no response, But I suddenly had a feeling to wanted to look inside, and when I just tried to take a peak, "CLICK!" I heard the sound of several photos taken by the camera from behind. When I turned around, I saw 3 girls from my class Asuka, Miyuki, and Emiko standing behind me and were grinning.
"You Pervert!!" They screamed at me.
"We should report to the teacher now that we have the evidence." Said Emiko.
"I never thought you would do such a thing, Ren!" Added Asuka.
"It was just a misunderstanding, I was just trying to close the door," I tried to explain to them
"You Lier we saw you peaking," said Miyuki angrily.
But they didn't listen and Emiko said,
"Enough with the excuses, We have the evidence now we can show it to our teachers your picture to get you punished."
When I heard the word 'Punished' I got very scared as they were going towards the staffroom.
I knelt and begged them to not tell the teachers about this.
However, when Miyuki saw me begging, she said,
"But we are not so bad, so I'll give Ren a chance"
"Eh !? Really !?" I replied
I felt relieved when I heard her.
"Yeah! We will forgive you if you listen to us from now on," responded Asuka.
"Really? Thank you! I'll do anything!" I replied while thinking
that it is better than getting punished & shamed.
Asuka: Ok, Then follow us to our club room!
I quietly followed them to the club room.
Upon arriving at the club room, I noticed that club belonged to the Drama club. Suddenly Miyuki locked the entrance to the room. First Emiko gave me a glass of water.
Emiko: here take this, you must be thirsty.
Said Emiko while handing me a can of coke.
Ren: Thank you very much.
I replied after drinking the coke.
Then they gave me a chair to sit down in.
Miyuki: Ren-Kun you will be a girl from now on!!
I didn't understand what she was saying.
Emiko: Ren-Kun was peaking in the girl's changing room. I thought that Its better if Ren-Kun becomes a girl because that way you can enter the room whenever you want! and we'll make that desire come true!"
Ren: Like I said it was a mistake I don't want to be a girl. (panicking)
Emiko: Asuka! Miyuki! grab him.
They quickly came near me and grabbed me. I tried to fight back but both of them were very strong & I started feeling weak.
The coke they must have drugged it.
Ren: The coke what did you!
I started to feel very sleepy then Emiko came near me & said
Emiko: Shh Sleep now!
Ren: What are y...
Then suddenly I fell asleep.
When I woke up after a while, I was tied to the chair.
I heard Emiko say
"Ah, you woke up ~ Good Morning Ren-Kun"
Then I saw myself in the mirror next to the window I was dressed in a sailor Uniform.
"... I can't move ..."
I tried to escape, but it didn't work.
"Hey! Remove the rope!", But They didn't listen to me at all.
"You don't have to worry so much Ren-Kun the sailor Uniform looks so cute on you," Said Asuka.
I felt very humiliated when she said cute.
"From today, Haruto Kun will be a girl, so speak in a girl's tone," spoke Miyuki.
"Huh? I don't want to be a girl."
"So, do you want everyone to see you like this?" Replied Emiko while showing me the photos of me wearing a skirt on her smartphone.
I kept quiet & had no choice but to obey them.
"Guess not!"
"Should we call you Rin-chan now that you are a girl?" Said Asuka.
"It such a cute name right, Rin-chan?" Asked (Ordered) Emiko.
"Y-yes it's cute," I replied while holding my tears back.
Then Miyuki came near me and started doing makeup on me and said
"Girls need makeup to look pretty!"
After she was done applying makeup, Emiko started brushing my hair.
"Rin's hair is thick and beautiful for a boy, But it's still short so, I'll make it long by adding extensions"
I don't know where she got the extensions but she started clipping them to my hair.
I was not able to do anything while they were humiliating me like this. When she was done adding them she said...
"Yup, it's done! You've got girl-like hair!" Emiko gently started combing my now long hair.
My hair was till my back now.
"Then, what hairstyle should I make?"
"TWINTAILS!" Shouted Asuka & Miyuki at the same time.
"Please! Stop!" Tears were welling up in my eyes.
It was humiliating to have twin tails, which is a typical girl's hairstyle.
Emiko started brushing my hair again then divides my hair neatly on the left and right, and then ties both sides with a band. When she was tieing them up, I had a slight pain in my head.
Then Asuka gave 2 ribbons to Emiko which she tied on both of my ponytails.
"& for the final touch," Emiko added clip-on bangs on my forehead.
"You see, your hair looks soo cute"
Miyuki brought a mirror in front of me while Emiko was stroking my hair. When I saw myself I started crying seeing my manhood being crushed.
"You really should have been a girl !! You should have been born as a girl? Lol " Said Emiko & everyone started laughing.
Then Emiko & Asuka untied my rope and then Emiko said
"Go stand over there & do some cute girl poses."
I Protested...
"NO! I won't do that ...! Stop it now ... "
"Do it fast or do you want me to send this to our sensei?" Said Emiko in a theretning voice!
I didn't have a choice so I went there and started doing girl prosses while crying.
"SMILE!" Shouted Miyuki. (I did.)
My Pride as a Man Shattered when all of them started taking photos.
"Now repeat after whatever we say in a girl tone," ordered Emiko!
I was completely broken because of earlier so I stopped protesting.
"yes...!" I replied in a low voice.
"Now repeat, '"I'm glad I became a girl today. From now on, I'll be cute as a girl.'"
While crying, I repeated what they said...
"I'm... I'm glad I became a girl ... t-today ... I... Will be ... cute ...as a g-girl!"
I put my head down while tears were coming down my cheeks.
"Don't cry, you will ruin the makeup," said Miyuki.
"Now, let's take a photo together to commemorate Ren becoming Rin for the time being!" said Asuka.
All three of them gather around me and Emiko took up her phone to take a Selfie!
Emiko holding the smartphone said, "Look up! Rin, Smile, and make a peace sign!"
I tried to smile & make the peace sign as I was told while I still had tears in my eyes.
CLICK.
After they were done with the photography session, Emiko spoke up,
"We will let you go now if you promise to obey whatever we say now!"
I was desperate to escape this humiliation so I agreed. (nodding)
"Ok, first from now on you are prohibited from cutting your hair with our permission!" said Miyuki.
"Second you will always speak to us in a girl tone whenever we talk with you," added Asuka."
"& third if you break any of these promises we will send the photos to the teachers & students in the school." threatened Emiko.
If not for the photos I would never have agreed to such unreasonable request's but I didn't have any choice.
"So do you agree Miyahara Ren?" Asked Emiko.
"I-I AGREE!!" I replied.
Then Emiko came near me and started removing the extensions from my hair and Miyuki washed my makeup.
When Asuka returned my uniform I finally felt a sense of relief.
I quickly removed the sailor uniform & wore my own. When I was done Emiko came to me and said, "Remember to keep the promises or this will happen again."
I got the chills up my spine when she said that.
"I will," I replied.
"Good!" She said that & all of them left.
After tidying up, I went home.
When I reached home & my older sister saw me she asked if I was ok because my eyes were red from all the crying.
I just said that I was feeling sleepy. I live alone with my elder sister as both of our parents passed away in an accident when we were kids, our aunt promised to support us financially until one of us gets a good job.
When I went to school the next day, I was afraid that they will tease me or something, but when I entered the classroom I saw the three was them were chatting with the others as usual.
And the day was over without any incident.
Over a few day's I tried to forget what happened the other day but I kept remembering the Humiliation & promises they made me do.
A month has passed, and still, nothing happened regarding those three & everything was normal.
Then on one day when I had the after-school cleaning duty, Emiko came near me & said...
"Rin-Chan! Do you still remember the promises??
My heart skipped a beat when she called me 'Rin' & every memory regarding that day came flooding back.
"Y-yes I...I remember!" I replied in a low tone.
"Did you think I'll forget? Don't worry we still had not told anyone anything about that day, If you want to keep everything like that, don't forget."
She said that & left. I almost forgot about it as a bad memory but she reminded me of everything.
& Just like that 6 months have gone by...
During that time, Emiko & her friends never tried to contact or tried to talk with me but I still remembered the promises I made with them. So I didn't cut my hair as promised with them, Now they are down to my shoulders.
When I first told my sister that I wanted to try growing long hair.
I expected she will not allow me to, but instead she was happy that 'I was trying something new.'
Most of the time I let them down but if it disturbs me I used to tie them in a ponytail still it was hard to maintain them long. I wanted to ask their permission to cut it but didn't get the time due to exams.
Some people in the class used to tease me about it but I ignored them.
The last day of Junior High.
"Finally Summer holidays!" said my friend Masaki in excitement.
"Yeah, finally the exams are over," I added.
"I am gonna go to Osaka with my family, what about you?"
"I think I'll stay at home & play games, or watch anime," I replied. I had to look after my sister.
"Man, that's so boring."
Last week my sister also went to Tokyo for her higher studies. So I had to manage the house alone.
Just then the Final bell rang.
As I was going for the door Emiko handed me a piece of paper and went.
I quickly open in the paper & it read..."Come to the Club Room asap, It's an order."
I quickly threw the paper in the dustbin & ran towards the club room.
When I knocked after school and entered the club room, I saw the three of them waiting.
"Rin! You've, must have missed us for the last six months, right?"
Suddenly Miyuki and Asuka came near me and hugged me for some reason.
"Do you know why we didn't do anything for the last six months?" asked Emiko in a cute voice.
"No, I don't know." I don't know why but I replied that in a girl tone.
"It's because Rin-chan's hair was short!" said Miyuki in excitement.
"HUH!?"
"Now there will be no need for extensions," added Asuka.
Emiko came near me and touched my shoulder-length hair and said
"It's good we waited, it's long enough."
When I saw them all excited and the memory of humiliation came back. I couldn't do anything so I just kept my head down.
"It's long but it's unkempt, it needs some styling," said Emiko.
Asuka then handed me the sailor uniform and ordered me to wear them.
I had no choice but to change clothes without saying anything.
When I had done changing Miyuki applied some light makeup on my face. When this was done Emiko said
"Well, let's go!"
"Where?"
"To make your hair look pretty, Don't worry, I have already made a reservation."
On the way, I tried to hide my face with my hair so that no one will able to recognize me.
"Here, I've arrived!" Said Emiko pointing towards the Beauty Salon. I suddenly noticed one of my classmates on the other side so I hurriedly went inside the beauty salon...
"Good Evening miss, how may I help you?
Asked the girl on the counter.
Emiko came behind me & said into my ear..."I didn't know you were this excited about your haircut." I was stunned.
"I made a reservation under miss Ayane," said Emiko to the girl.
"Ahh! yes, Ayane is waiting for you in the private room."
Emiko & the girl took me towards the private room. Emiko told me to sit on the chair. She suddenly left
I was very nervous since entering the beauty salon and kept thinking of just what Emiko planned to do to me now.
After a min or so Emiko returned with a woman. (who looked like she was in her late 20s.) She had long waist-length straight hair which looked beautiful on her.
"are you miss Rin?"
"Y-Yes!" I nervously replied in a girl tone.
"Good Evening, I am Ayane who is in charge of you today!"
"Good Evening!"
"What do you want to do today."
As I was about to speak Emiko interrupted me and took the lady aside, I couldn't hear what they were saying, which was making me more and more nervous.
After some time Emiko went to her friends and Ayaka came to me & said...
"Emiko explained to me what type of hairstyle you want, So I'll try to do just that."
I became concerned when I heard her say that.
Then she started the process,
First, she washed my hair. While washing she said, "You got quite good hair for a boy but it is not maintained properly, Hair is the life of a woman, so take good care of it."
(WHAT SHE TOLD HER I WAS A BOY!!)
"Yes ... I'm sorry," I replied clumsily.
After my hair was dried with the help of a blow dryer, Ayane spoke up "Then I'll start with the process of straightening your hair. This will make your hair look very pretty.
I didn't know what she was doing, but I was very scared.
After 10 min, her hair straightening was finally over.
My hair was always naturally straight but after she was done my hair that was all over the place was perfectly in place, and when I touched them they were silky smooth like girls.
"So how does it look? now compare to before aren't they pretty! Are you happy?"
I was so ashamed that I wanted to cry.
"... yes" I replied because I didn't want to disrespect her work.
"I'm glad you liked it, now let's go to the last step haircut," replied Ayane.
When she said haircut I knew it will be a women's hairstyle and became unhappy. Seeing the look on my face Ayane replied...
"Ohh don't worry Rin, I am not going to reduce the length of your hair, I'll just trim to shape them."
(Ahh Who would explain this to her.)
After an hour, My hair was changed so much that I didn't even look like a boy anymore, and then at last as per Emiko's request my bangs were cut in a straight line, till my eyes.
"It's done !! Yeah, it's looks so cute on you!" said Ayane.
When Ayane looked happy, Emiko and her friends came from behind and said,
"Wow! Now you look like a perfect pretty girl !!" Said Miyuki
"It was worth the effort it took," added Emiko.
Tears started flowing down my chin.
"What? Are you crying again ?" Said Asuka
"Look at your hair now, not only it's long but smooth & shiny like girls," said Emiko.
Emiko wiped my tears with her handkerchief. While saying, "Then, let's thank Lady Ayane properly, say thank you for making me look so cute."
I repeated, "Thank you for making me cute ...".
"Welcome, but you have to take care of your hair properly to maintain them like this, if you need any help contact me on this."
Said Ayane while giving me a card.
Ayane went out & then Emiko paid for the service and we left the beauty salon.
After we went out of the store, I asked Emiko
"Can I go home now?"
"No! from now on you are going to live with me until the summer vacation ends!!"
TO BE CONTINUED!
All the character images are created by the use of Koikatsu.
Chapter 1: Adjusting to the city life
In This Chapter Skyler will face the difficult challenge also dealing with his erratic personal life....
Hi, My name is Skyler and I just moved to the city for college, I live with my sister Sharla who is older than me and is here for completing her graduation. We live in a small 1BHK apartment.
At first, things were all great as I was a young guy receiving money from my parents I was enjoying my life and spending most of the money going around the city and having fun with my friends but soon my parents discovered (due to my sister) what I was doing and cut my money to half and said if I want money I need to score good marks.
Due to this, I started working hard towards my education but due to not paying attention I started working extra hard and had to cut down my expenses. Because of overworking and mistakenly drinking Contaminated water, I got sick my sister took me to the doctor who advised me to rest for 6 months. (Well, that sucks and I can't tell that my parents and if I told them I'll have to go back to my village.) So I just told them I was under the weather I will be better in 2 to 3 days and resume my study.
I got pretty bored in the apartment so I started doing household work like cleaning, washing clothes.
One day, I saw this woman who had the same frustrated and bored expression on her face. I didn't say anything because you know as a bachelor people think it's creepy. So I stayed silent but she said hi instead and we started talking. Her name was Sarah she was married and has a small girl(Amy) and they moved to the city recently too. That being the common point we got along pretty well.
As we both had nothing else to do after our housework we started hanging out and talking. I did not have a TV or pc and her TV was right in front of the door. So we sat near the balcony in front of her door and watched movies & series while we start chit-chatting. Days passed and I started helping her out in cooking and in return, she used to teach me new recipes.
Life was great until my sister pointed out something thing...
Sharla: Hey Skye! did you noticed something about you?
Skyler: What?
Sharla: Something has changed about you?
Skyler: Well my hair has grown longer as I haven't had a haircut in 7 months they are almost past my shoulder.
Sharla: That is an obvious thing.
Skyler: Then what?!
Sharla: You are like me!
Skyler: *SHOCKED*what are you saying?
Sharla: let me explain ok. So you wake up prepare food, eat, wash clothes, chit-chat with the neighbor lady, talk about serials. So basically you are a housewife without a husband
*sarcastic laughs*
I started blushing not knowing how to react in that situation. Well realistically speaking she is right because that's all that I do all day. I just laughed and shrugged my shoulders trying to ignore and not make matters worse and avoid any further discussion. Days passed by fast and I made sure to void any such discussion by talking about something or the other.
I've always wanted to grow my hair long but my parents were very traditional and didn't allow me to grow my hair long. When I received the news that I was going to live with my sister for further studies I started growing my hair even before coming to the city.
Months passed and my hair has gotten long till my middle back and I always kept it neat in a ponytail. I've never really had a full beard and it only grows a bit on the bottom of my chin which makes me look like a goat so I always shave it off. Even though I've been growing it for a while once my hair reached my mid-back it started looking feminine. As it is quite thick and straight and also the fact that it's more visible to people when I move around.
There were 2 vacant apartments for a while on the floor we lived in. ( there are a total of 4 apartments per floor) I saw 2 girls (i think of my age) who were shifting in and I and my sister were on the balcony and looking at them. One of the girls was very beautiful and she had long dark hair till her lower back she was wearing a black t-shirt and blue denim jeans. The other girl was pretty too but I liked the first girl. Sharla saw me looking at her and started teasing me. And as always I started blushing!
I woke up and made breakfast for me and my sister and was standing on the balcony and talking to sis and drinking tea and suddenly. I heard a voice from behind "excuse me, sister?". I knew it sounded new and guessed it was probably one of the new girls who moved to the next apartment as I saw she went upstairs to dry her clothes. Sharla saw her and asked her what she wanted but the girl said "not you sister I am talking to this sister in a blue tracksuit". I was shocked.
She thought I was a girl and to make matters worse she called me a girl in front of my sister. My sister was shocked and looked at me without blinking and just suddenly burst into laughter. I put my head down and turned around. I was expecting her to apologize for mistaking me for a girl but instead she "sister sorry I used ur hangers and the string to dry my clothes as mine were not enough and I didn't tie the string for my clothes yet. Just let me know if you want to dry ur clothes. I'll remove mine". I was silent and trying to understand what was happening and just kept looking at her and in shock, I just said OK. She smiled and left not understanding why the girl behind me was laughing like crazy.
Sharla said that she would tell her later that she made a mistake of recognizing me as a girl But I felt it would be embarrassing so I tried my best not to let her speak. And she kept silent for the time being. Few days passed by after the embarrassing situation but it wasn't the last time.
A few days later. While I & Sarah were chit-chatting on the balcony I got a call from my college that I was failed due to me not giving the semester examination I got nervous and told my sister about this, She said that she will take off a day and we will meet the principal tomorrow and talk about this....next day I and my sister got ready early and went to my principal to discuss this.
We entered the principal's office (Her name is Mrs. Sunit Gupta she is in her 50s I guess) At first she didn't recognize me that she adjusted her glasses (I don't know why teachers do this) And Said Principal: Ohh Mr. Skyler is that you!
Skyler: Yes ma'am.
Principal: growing longhair it seems I almost didn't recognize you.
Skyler: Due to some circumstances I had to ma'am.
(My sister was holder her laughter)
She gave me a weird look and explained my situation to me and my sister. She told us that I first have to pass my previous semester examination then only I can attend the next semester classes & the next exam is in 7 months (Again I was stuck) She said I can attend the extra classes for the failed students which are beginning in a week or I can study at home.
After this, my sister & I got out of college and went home. At Home, she asked me what I wanted to do I told her if I feel ok will attend the extra classes.
A month passed I tried attending the extra classes but it was not that great teachers those teaching here were mostly exhausted due to the classes being after college hours and the students who were attending the classes were idiots.
Some days later. While we(Me, Sharla & Sarah) were chit-chatting on the balcony Wind started blowing and it was getting uncomfortable for me to handle my hair. I couldn't even get my hair into a ponytail as It got knotted with the wind.
Sister wanted to help me after trying to convince me for a while I gave up and said OK. She went in and brought shampoo and conditioner and gave them to me and asked me to wash my hair and apply conditioner and once done I have to call her then so she can come to me. And I did exactly as she said and called her and she came to my room and I was sitting there with dripping wet hair and a wet t-shirt because of my wet hair.
She started towel drying my hair and once it was 80% dry she applied few pumps of leave-in spray and started combing mine. It felt so damn good when she was combing my hair I just can't tell you guys how good it felt. I mean like the comb just went sliding down and then she started brushing my hair with this wooden brush. She asked me to go & look in the mirror and I just couldn't believe what I was seeing. I looked like a girl in some hair commercial with straight long hair which she parted from the middle.
Chapter 2: Changes
(NOTE: This chapter continuous straight from chapter 1)
My sister walked into the room and said that my hair looks so beautiful now. Then she said that
Sharla: If you don't take care of long hair it can get damaged easily so you need to take care of them as it is the same length as mine.
Skye: Come to think of it my hair is almost to my back now.
Sharla: Yeah, so you need to learn more hairstyles like ponytail to tie your hair. For now, sit here I'll do it for you!
She made me sit in front of her and started combing my hair. This time I closed my eyes, it was so soothing & relaxing. After some time she said she was done with the hairstyle and placed my hair on my shoulder. It felt heavy for some reason and felt different than a normal ponytail which I usually wear. Suddenly Sharla came in front of me and took quick photos from every angle and then sat back again. I saw what was on my shoulder and it was a long single braid.
I thought she was pranking me by putting her braid on my shoulder and then I said...
Skye: Yeah real funny, now remove your braid and show me my braid.
Sharla: You idiot that's your braid. As I combed your hair I realized you almost have hair till your lower back so I braided it instead. To make things easier for you.
I was so angry that I screamed at her and said "I AM NOT A GIRL!".
I stood up went into my room and locked the door with a loud bang!!
Just as I was removed my band from the hair I got a WhatsApp message!
It was from my sister, I didn't want to see them but I noticed they were my photos. So I opened the message don't know why, maybe because some part of me wanted to see how I looked. I was very shocked! Like Holy S**T! I was shocked that my braid was so freaking thick & beautiful and it almost reached my lower back and it looked freaking amazing. And the front photo where she placed my braid on the shoulder. I looked so cute and beautiful. At that moment I felt an emotion I never felt before it was weirdly attractive for some reason.
After realizing this I felt very bad for shouting at my sister she was only thinking for better for me. I slowly unlocked & opened the door and she was standing right outside. As she was about to turn and leave and I quickly grabbed her arm apologized to her. It took a little while for convincing her. She said, "If you are sorry you will let me braid your hair again." I accepted it because I was curious to touch my braids myself in private and anyways I had no were else to go and there is no one around except me and my sister so I said OK.
She started combing my hair again. So last time I didn't feel any divisions(partition) on my scalp but this time I did. It started from the front and ended at the back bottom of the scalp. She was brushing and doing something I could feel it but I was not allowed to look. I thought she was side parting my hair for the braid but this time it took longer than it took before. She walked in front of me looked from different angles & again took some pictures. I could feel the weight on both sides of my head it felt as my head had a center and both sides are having weight. Then she went back & placed braids on both my shoulders.
I was utterly shocked & before I could say anything...
Sharla: First look yourself in the mirror before you say something & I am leaving...BYE!!
And she quickly an away from my room. I immediately closed the door worried that someone might see me like this Quickly rushed towards the mirror of my room turned the lights on and was just staring at the mirror looking at these beautiful thick black braids on both of my shoulders. I just couldn't believe them. The ends of the braid were reaching my lower back & she middle-parted my hair from the front to the neck. I looked like a school girl! & I was getting nervous and excited at the same time my brain couldn't believe that those braids were mine. My hands were trembling as I touched them. I could feel the pressure of my touch on my scalp. My whole body was filled with excitement as I was watching and touching my braids. I touched my scalp with my fingertips then I felt the tightness of my hair at the roots which were caused by the weight of my long braids.
I never felt anything like this. It was an amazing feeling. I was playing with my braid and with the ends of my braid. Every time I pulled my braid the pulling sensation on my scalp was driving me crazy. The way those braids touched were touching my ears and brushing my neck. My mind just couldn't contain such levels of pleasure. I just kept staring at myself I don't even know how much time I spent sitting there and looking at my reflection in the mirror which I never saw before.
I am now on my bed and with my braids. I just held them in disbelief I couldn't accept the fact that such beautiful long braids belonged to me I loved them!
Then I had a thought what if my hair was longer than this how long would be my braids. If my hair was hip-length or more then my braid would swing and touch my butt just thinking about it made my heart beat faster in excitement and pleasure!
I don't know when I fell asleep. I think it was one of the best days of my life as I never experienced such a huge rush of emotions all at once in my whole life.
As I woke up and was drinking hot water my sister bought me I heard a knock on the front door I got up and realized I still had Twin Braids (pigtails) from last night, I quickly removed the bands & undid my braids. I got to the front door and opened it standing there was the same girl who moved to the apartment on my floor.
Neighbor Girl: Good Morning Sister! sorry to disturb you this early in the morning. I need some help as I am leaving early to work and my roommate went to her village. She will return in the evening can you give her these keys? please.
Skyler: (again with the sister I should clear her misunderstanding)Excuse me, miss...
Girl: Julia, Julia Nelson!
Skyler: Miss Nelson, I am a BOY stop calling me sister, Just because I have long hair doesn't mean I am a girl.
Julia: Ooh I am very sorry. That day when I first saw you from behind and thought you were a girl and when you didn't say anything after that I thought you were a girl.
Skyler: that was in the past but why even now?
Julia: First of all you are wearing red lipstick and your hair is wavy and parted in the middle because you probably had your hair in braids. So I was sure you are a girl. Sorry if I hurt you.
She just said that and left. I ran back into my room and checked myself I was wearing lipstick! How did I not notice it last night? then I remembered that I didn't lock the door in my room. It must be Sharla. I called her she was in the bathroom too.
After she came out I scolded her for the lipstick and told her my embarrassing incident of the morning & she was laughing so loud that my ears were paining. Then she said "I heard it all &, Wow you are just scolding me for the lipstick and not for the braids? That means you liked the long twin braids!? I knew it. Ohh are you blushing? You look so cute."
I couldn't say anything. As I was blushing and feeling shy at the same time and my sister was laughing.
Then she said "Ok enough of all this shyness like a little girl now go and get fresh and get your comb I'll braid it. And don't worry I'll only make a single braid for you this time."
I was a little disappointed when she said single braid but still, I was happy that she was braiding it again.
I quickly bought the comb. I was Like a girl when her mom asks her to get the comb. She started combing my hair and first she started with a parting. Some part of me wanted to resist but my other part of me just wanted it to happen.
She started combing my hair gently but firmly and now she started braiding my hair. All those emotions and sensations were rushing back to me again. Looking at me getting uncomfortable my sister said..."looks like u have a sensitive scalp."
I was shocked and said yes. She just laughed and continued braiding.
She was almost done when her phone rang "it's from work." she said and handed me the comb and asked me to comb the below part of the rubber band at the end of the braid and then she left.
I looked around and took the comb and started combing the ends of my braid like a woman after putting a rubber band on my braid. Time passed and it was an evening I was unconsciously playing with the ends of my braid and watching web series on my phone, Suddenly I heard a girl's voice calling me sister. Not Again! I thought to myself and turned and it was the pretty girl I liked from before.
Neighbor girl 2: hi sister! My Name Amber Hall I live in the next apartment with my friend. My friend said that she will leave the key with you.
My heart was beating very fast but I took courage and turned around I just smiled and silently went inside, bought the keys gave them to her. And she smiled said "Thank You!" and left.
I was at least happy sister wasn't around this time as she would tease me a lot.
Chapter 3: Challenges
Few days passed by and I got accustomed to wearing braids regularly. I think I loved the feeling of wearing braids. One day when my sister was brushing my hair to make it into a braid my sister said...
Sharla: Skye your hair has gotten so long now are you going to cut it or are you going to grow them more?
I was so mesmerized by her hair brushing that I never thought what I wanted to say and just said what came to mind.
Skye: I was thinking of growing them more longer.
Sharla: What did you just say?
Skye: Nothing (regretted saying that out loud)
Sharla: I heard what you said, you want your hair longer? (grinning)
I kept quiet.
Sharla: Well if you want to I will support you but you need to take care of them properly for keeping them healthy, neat & clean!
Skye: OK, and thank you for supporting me, sis.
Sharla: you have very girly hair though it will be nice to see them grow longer lol.
"sis," I said as we both laughed in unison. Just as she was finishing my braid and putting the band we heard the knock my sister finished putting the band at the end and opened the door it was Amber. My sister guided her inside and then she noticed me and said "Hi, and sorry about the other day I thought you were a girl as you were wearing a braid, Julia my roommate told me that you are a boy."
My cheek was red with embarrassment. "Hey, Amber! Don't worry everyone thinks that my brother looks like a girl. Actually for the most part he is a girl." said my sister and started laughing. Amber also started laughing I was shyly looking at her and thought wow her laughter is also very pretty.
After that Amber & my sister were talking with each other about their stuff as I was watching some series on my sister's laptop and I was unconsciously playing with my braid end like a girl. Then I noticed Amber staring at me. I became aware of what I was doing immediately stopped it! She smiled and said
"It's OK Skyler! I like boys who are comfortable being a little feminine. I am not very much comfortable being with those macho jocks types of guys anyway."
It was at this moment I fell in love with her, those words were so heartwarming for me.
After a week or so I got a call from my parents they told me they knew about my situation from Sharla. (They were very angry) They told me at least find a part-time Job & send us some proof this time or come home.
For the next few days, I tried searching for jobs but was unable to find one which is suitable for me.
I gave up but thinking about going back to the village and facing my family there put me in a panic state as I did not know what to do. At home, I told Sharla about my whole situation.
She said...
Sharla: I can help you with this.
Skye: But how?
Sharla: A few days ago when I was talking to Amber she said she needed a new female assistant at her part-time work in the cafe.
Skye: And how is that supposed to help me?
Sharla: Idiot brother you will apply for the assistant job.
Skye: Don't they require a female?
Sharla: So what?
I was SHOCKED
Skye: Are you MAD or what?
Sharla: First listen to me OK!
Skye: umm hmm
Sharla: Dress up as a girl it will be easy as you have long hair and I will help you with everything you need & you need to send something as proof to our parents? Or else you will have to go to the village and you don't want that right? Just join as an assistance work take the money and send them and you are a good cook anyway.
Skye: I have to dress as a GIRL! I won't do such jobs and also I like Amber what will she think about me when she sees me like that? I have some pride!
Sharla: Oh you moron. You have to work there in the morning. Amber works in the evening and returns at night. You have all day to do the work. I will introduce them as my Cousin Simple.
I was still thinking and hesitating about it.
Sharla: See I am not saying do this forever. Just do for a 4 till your exams and study at night. Then we will find another Job which suits you. But...
Skye: but what?
Sharla: Not only you need to dress as a woman and do the work.
You need to learn makeup and we also need to go to a salon to at least even your ends.
Skye: no way I am going to do that.
Sharla: OK then pack your bags and go back home.
Skye: Alright, alright I will do it. (Still feeling somewhat regretful.)
After saying ok my sister called Amber and told her that her cousin SOPHIE(me) will do the job. The interview with the owner was scheduled 3 days later. So I had 3 days for preparation.
On the first day, First, she made me shave all of the body hair which I did not have much then helped me practice my girl's voice after that, I and my sister had gone for shopping for buying some casual clothes, makeup, & hair accessories like a headband which took the whole day & what's worse she made me wear her t-shirt and jeans with my hair in a single braid so that it should build up my confidence during work.
On the second day, she took me to a unisex salon for a slight trim where her friend worked. When I entered the salon I only found females there it was very awkward. When it was my turn my sister told her friend what to do in her ear. (I thought it was nothing but I was soo wrong!) Her friend called her colleague Mary (Mary was a good-looking girl in her 20s I think she was wearing this sleek-looking ponytail which moved whenever she moved which I thought was cute ) & told her what to do but I couldn't hear so I ignored it. Then Mary guided me to my seat. She examined me and then removed the clip from my bun. Her jaw dropped when all my hair cascaded down to my lower back. Then she said, "Sir you got very beautiful hair, many girls will die to get hair like this."
"Thank You very much," I said in an awkward tone.
"Your welcome!" she said. Then she asked me "Do you want to reduce your length or only to even your ends." I told her I only want to even my ends as I was going to grow them more longer.
After my hair I looked at my hair it definitely looked more feminine now as the ends look great. Then she took me towards a basin to wash my hair. After that when she was drying my hair I was getting sleepy. I just closed my eyes for 1 min *click-click* I felt Intense pain in both my earlobes I immediately woke up and saw 2 small loops in my ear as my sister was there laughing standing next to me. I let out a sigh and told her "I suspected you would do something like this." She said, "still it looks good on you with that hair!"
After everything we left the salon as we were going home, people were sort of noticing me due to my hair being straight and laid out.
I think I liked my hair like this.
On the third day, my sister taught me how to do makeup and different types of hairstyles & how to act/behave like a girl. (manners and all) Damn it was hard to remember everything how do all girls manage this kind of stuff every day I thought.
Finally, it was the day of the interview. My sister made me wore her casual dark blue blazer and the matching skirt. My hair was done in a Bun (It looked quite big because of length I think) because My sister said the bun looks professional in an interview. She applied some light makeup. I looked into myself in the mirror I was shocked at how different I looked. (I looked more like my mother when she was young like in her 20s or something.) "You turned out quite a beauty!" Said Sharla. "All thanks to you!" I said to her.
My sister dropped me at the bakery it was not far from our apartment a 10 min walk I think. "Sunshine Cafe!" I said out loud.
"yup this is it," said Sharla. I was very nervous entering just then my sister hugged me and said "Don't worry little brother sorry sister you look perfect if anything happens I am here for you. All the best!"
"Thank you, sis!" getting a little teary-eyed I entered inside.
The cafe was yet to be opened as the was early in the morning. I saw one girl setting and cleaning the tables and the other girl was at the counter arranging things there. The one cleaning the table noticed me first and said "Miss, how may I help you?" I read her badge her name was Kate (She was in her early 20s brown chest-length hair with gorgeous bangs which framed her face perfectly.)
"I am here for my interview," I said. "Ahh, Sophie I presume for the assistant position, through here." said the girl. She guided me to the door of a small office cum meeting room where the name tag on the door said 'SUSAN PARK'. I saw a woman sitting there in the middle to whom I said "Good morning Ma'am I am here for my Interview."
The woman looked up and said, "Good morning to you too honey, please sit down I was expecting you."
To Be CONTINUED...
Chapter 4.1: Job & Love.
[Note: This chapter continues straight from the previous chapter]
I sat down looking around thinking about the structure of the cafe it was quite big and sensational looking...Just as I was thinking about it Susan introduced herself. She was in her early 40s but still looked like she was in her late 20s she had a straight sleek shoulder-length bob that was parted from the side. She was wearing a black dress which matched her hair perfectly. She was the owner and the manager of the cafe. She told me the cafe was opened 4 years ago and is quite famous for the fusion food.
Then she asked me about myself. I told her about my hobbies, educational background (that I am currently studying), family, etc. Then all of a sudden as I was telling about myself. She said, "You are a boy right." I was in a deep shock as my cover was blown. She was a sharp woman I could not have been able to lie in her face so I asked "How did you know ma'am?"
Susan: Don't get me wrong you are very beautiful looking. But I am a woman Sophie I can notice little differences about you & how you talk.
Skye: Sorry for deceiving you, ma'am.
Susan: It's ok honey I am sure you have your reasons.
I thought that I lost the job and just as I about to leave she said...
Susan: So when do you want to start working?
Skye: Huh, I thought I lost the Job!
Susan: Why, Just because you are a boy dressed as a girl. I do not mind things like that and I quite like you. You are smart, confident, truthful, and straight to the point which is rare these days even for a girl let alone the fact that you are a boy.
Skye: Does that mean I got the job?
Susan: Yup.
Skye: Thank you so much ma'am for giving me the chance to work here.
Susan: (smilingly) Call me Susan. So when you want to start working here?
Skye: I can work from tomorrow.
Susan: Ok. Your Uniform will be provided today and the name tag will be given to you in a day or two.
She called Kate to the room and told her to give me my uniform and to introduce me to everyone. Then she told me to go with her.
I got up she shaken my hand and said "welcome to sunshine cafe Sophie happy to be working with you." I nod my head said thank you and left the room.
As we got out of the room everyone was waiting there. Then everyone introduced themselves...
Kate: Hi I am Kate look forward to working with you I manage the customers and their orders.
2nd girl: Hi there I am Amy I work at the counter.
New Guy: Hi I am Mark I work in the kitchen with her.
3rd girl: Hi sweetheart I am Jessica I work in the Kitchen with Mark.
I too introduced myself to everyone. After that everyone got back to their work except Kate she showed me the whole place and explained my job to me.
Kate: Now that's all you have to do. What's your clothing size I need it for your uniform.
I told her my size. Then she bought me the uniform. It has a top and a skirt. black color orange highlights with the cafe logo. It looked neat. I was given 2 sets.
After this, I called my sister to pick me up and got out to meet her after giving farewell to everyone.
On the way I told my Sister that I got the job she was overjoyed. We had food in the restaurant as a celebration of my first Job after that we went home and slept early as it is my first day to work tomorrow.
Things got quite busy from that day on as I had to work in the morning and study at night I didn't have much free time now.
Over time I made everyone my friend in my cafe and learned many things like cooking & managing. Kate & Mark were my best friends now.
Kate when first saw my hair down she was mesmerized and said "damn you got a beautiful mane!" She always used to compliment my hair. I sometimes used to think she liked my hair more than me lol. With time I got used to the feeling of wearing girl's clothes so much so that I sometimes used to wear girl's clothes at home without even noticing until Sharla used to point out them. My sister nowadays takes extra care of my hair. She says "Growing long hair needs extra care."
I mostly used to avoid meeting Amber outside my apartment.
(Scared what would she think of me when she will see me like this.)
Whenever she came home I usually used to hide in my room. Just like that time passed.
In the 4th month of my Job, things got out of control. Next month was my exams which I needed to pass to attain college due to which I had to focus more on my studies. My schedule got hectic as I used to study till late at night and I had to work at the cafe all day due to which I didn't get much time for rest which was started to affect me.
It was the second week where things got more hard. (The cafe had organized many parties in that week so there were more customers.)
On Saturday I was late at my Job because I woke up pretty late I didn't even have time to get ready properly so I dressed up as fast I could tie my hair in a high ponytail, applied a little makeup, and went to work. Because I was late I had to work some extra. The ponytail was getting difficult to manage as the band was slipping off because of how silky and longer my hair got this past few months (my hair had my hair till my waist now) so during break time I asked Kate to tie my hair in a single braid. I was exhausted at the end of the day and I was getting headaches so I went home a little early.
When I reached home I noticed the door was locked I cursed and just when I was trying to call my sister I passed out.
I woke up after sometimes with a mild headache. I noticed that I was in someone else room and Amber was sitting in front of me. She gave me some orange juice to drink.
Amber: how are you now?
Skye: I am fine now thank you for this.
Amber: When I was leaving for my Job I found you lying in front of your door, afraid I carried you inside my room with Julie.
Skye: Thank you for helping me I think It was because of overwork.
Amber: (smilingly) Skyler or should I call you Sophie now. You felt bad when I called you sister and now here you are wearing girl's clothes.
I realized I was still wearing my work uniform & got embarrassed and said
Skye: look I can explain...
Amber: You don't need to, I knew everything your sister told me everything and I saw you many times in the cafe. You did the work very well and I can't let go a good such a good employee. So you can't quit your job now.
Skye: are joking? I am a student and I have exams next month. I can't be working.
Amber: Ohh you will or else I will tell everyone that you dressed as a girl and are working in a cafe as a girl.
Skye: Please, you can't do that, don't do that.
Amber: I am the assistant manager of the cafe and the owner is my aunt. I will do It if you do not listen to me.
I was shocked listening to this and I thought that she knew from the beginning It was me working there as a girl.
Then Amber came near me and sat next to me. Then she took my braid in her hand and started touching and feeling it. I was surprised seeing her do that. I only dreamt of her doing something like this.
Amber: Your hair is so long, thick, and Silky. Girls would love to have such hair. Please don't ever cut it. It looks very beautiful on you.
Saying this she looked into my eyes she said "I love You Skye" & kissed me on my lips. I was shocked to hear this and asked after our kiss.
Skye: From When?
Amber: When I first heard from Julie that you were a boy. I was shocked to hear that but when I saw you playing with your hair and working hard at the cafe even it was hard on you I fell in love with you.
Hearing this I said, "I Love you too!"
"I know!" Amber said.
Then she took my braid and started playing with it. She lifted my shirt and started tickling my belly button with the ends of my braid. My mind was blown away by that sensation and then she unhooked my bra and started tickling my nipples with my braid. My mind was going nuts and felt like I was under some sort of pleasure spell.
Then I quickly stopped her and asked "What about Julie & your Job?"
"Don't worry she will not return until tomorrow evening and I have told the cafe that I was not feeling well."
We continued our pleasure time
As she kissed me on my lips I joined her. She then slides her hands on my neck into my hair and we shared a passionate kiss. She again started brushing my nipples and belly with the ends of my braid and finally, she started rubbing the braid against my body. Like that we made out. I didn't know when I passed out during that time.
Chapter 4.2: Love & College.
[Chapter Note: This chapter contains links to images which is used for reference only.]
That was one of the best sleep I had in a while. I woke up still finding myself in Amber's bed. As I got up I was greeted by Amber handing me a glass of water to drink.
"So how was your sleep?" Asked Amber.
"One of the best I had in days." Said Skyler.
She advised me to take few days off to take care of myself to which I said Ok. Then I talked to her about my Job and my exams next month. She told me to take a break from work during exams after that I can continue whenever I liked. I said, "I'll think about It."
After our talk, I went home.
My sister was very happy for me when I told her about me & Amber.
That afternoon I got a call from Amber asking me if I was free in the evening to which I said yes. She suggested we should hang out and enjoy this day. I said, "why not!" She asked me to meet her at her home at 5.
I got ready (I wore blue jeans and a white t-shirt with a jacket over it. Tied my hair in a ponytail.) I told my sister and got out then I knocked on her door. She opened her door and then I saw her she was wearing a green dress and her hair straightened cascading down her back she looked hot. I told her "You look gorgeous!"
to which she said thank you and told me to come in and sit.
Out of nowhere, she asked me
Amber: Can I do your hair today? please!
Skye: Why does it not look good?
Amber: It does but I wanted to try something out.
I was hesitating a bit but I said yes. Then she ran into her room bought a hairbrush, a couple of clips & bands. She sat me on her bed and came behind me, pulled the band from my ponytail, and told me to close my eyes to which I did.
Then started brushing my hair slowly & swiftly down my back.
Amber: I still can't get enough of your hair they are so beautiful.
Skye: Thank you! (shyly)
Amber: Your hair grows so fast they are longer than mine. I still have my hair till my lower back but you have a little bit longer than that almost till your waist, are you planning on growing it longer? please try growing them.
Skye: Yeah I noticed the fast growth I think it is my genes and I was thinking of having them more longer.
Amber: Please grow them longer.
Skye: If you want me to then I will.
Amber: Really, Thank you! I can't wait to see them longer.
Skye: Take care of them then.
Amber: Yes I will, & your hair is done.
Skye: (It was a familiar feeling) Already I was loving the feeling of you brushing my hair.
Amber: Ohh Thank You, & don't open your eyes yet.
She took me to the mirror then told me to open my eyes. She made my hair in twin braids cascading down my shoulder to my waist which looked so beautiful I was shocked.
(my hair looked like this = https://in.pinterest.com/pin/650770214894591613/ )
Skye: Braids!
Amber: Don't you like them your sister told me that this was your favorite hairstyle to do.
Skye: ("Damn sis," I said in my mind) I love them.
Smilinly Amber hugged me and said, "You look very cute like this I am glad you like them." After this, we got out and enjoyed ourselves. I got some weird looks as I was wearing braids but I ignored them. We went to a mall where we did some shopping, had dinner, and watched a late-night movie show after that I escorted her home. When we reached our floor she kissed me goodbye and went home.
I to got home to find my sister awake she teased me for the braid and asked me what happened to which I told her everything and as time passed we grew more closer.
ONE MONTH LATER!
It was the day of the exam and as usual, I was late. (I was studying till late at night) I got fresh wore my clothes brushed my hair packed my bag and got out. Amber was waiting for me (She told me she would accompany me to the bus) Then we walked to the bus stop.
Amber: You didn't even tie your hair up.
Skye: Yeah I wanted to keep it like this today. Let them down.
Amber: You forgot right.
Skye: Right.
Amber: (laughed) I knew it. Don't colleges have rules regarding long hair?
Skye: I don't know I have not been to college for a while now.
Amber: Here take these bands in case you need them.
Skye: Thanks for this.
We reached the bus stop. The bus was standing there so I said my goodbye to Amber and got on the bus.
I reached the college. As I was entering the examination hall I was stopped by a teacher. She scolded me that I should at least tie my hair up. "Sorry ma'am," I said to her and tied my hair using the band given to me by Amber. (I was very thankful to her) She asked me about my college ID & Exam ID. She rose her eyebrow, "Is this you are you a boy?" She said pointing at my photo on my college ID. (My photo in the college ID was more than 2 years old I forgot to update it.)
Me: Yes ma'am it's me I am a boy, that photo is old I just have long hair now.
Teacher: Long, they are very long, I thought you were a girl because of it, and keep in mind that just because you are a boy with long hair doesn't mean you can keep it down. You have to tie it up like others that's the rule, Understand!?
Me: Yes ma'am I understand. (embarrassingly)
she said that loud enough for the people in the front must have heard it. Then she guided me to my seat gave a last awkward look at me and went.
I gave all my exam papers like this. Every time I had little troubles due to my appearance but I got used to them. Regardless of that my exams went amazingly due to my hard work. (or overwork lol)
2 weeks later my result was declared. I was passed with good marks. I told my sister and Amber the news both of them were so happy that we did a small party at my home. The next day I also got a call from my college to collect the mark sheet and that I can start attending my college from the new semester which is in 2 months for which I was happy and nervous at the same time.
Many things happened in these two months Like I started working with Amber in the evening shift. She used to teach me many things about fashion and stuff.
On the first day of the new semester, I was very nervous because I have not attended college in 1.5 years. "what will my classmates and friends think will say if they look at me like this?" I said to my sister. "They will not say anything don't be too nervous for such a small reason." said my sister.
I said ok and went to college(still feeling a little nervous.)
When I reached there I called my friends (Sarah & Peter) who were waiting for me at the college entrance. I went to them and said hi
Peter: Hi there, & Woah that hair looks sick.
Me: Thanks, dude.
Sarah: Looks like somebody has been growing their hair. Look at your ponytail it looks so good.
(for reference = https://in.pinterest.com/pin/592786369696975452/ )
Me: You think so, thank you.
Sarah: Yeah you look great! way better than before.
Me: Thanks, now let's go or we will be late.
First, the two of them went inside the classroom. I still a little nervous went after them. Boy's didn't pay much attention but most of the girls had their jaw dropped when they saw me as I sat down on my seat next to Peter. Then I did something unexpected I took my ponytail from my back and kept it on my shoulder to see the looks on the girl's faces, they were mesmerized. I told Peter that I should have had made a video of them and like that my college life began.
The 1st month was hard at first because some boys used to tease me pull my hair but they got over it soon. But the girl's used to be good with me. They used to ask me for advice about my hair. Over time some girls even asked me out but of course, I rejected them because I had Amber. Nowadays Amber & I used to spend more time together we went out on many dates & some dates she made me wear girls clothes to which she said was for some thrill in life.
I even took part in many plays which I found out I was good at.
Just like that, the semester ended and it was time for the summer holidays.
My hair has grown significantly longer. They are now till my hips.
(Like that: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/969470257255269353/ )
Both Amber & Sharla loved my hair. (Well I too love my hair.) They used to pamper me and my hair. I used to wear my hair in braids because I loved the feeling of the braid when it swings while I walk.
One day when we three were planning for a picnic my sister got a call. The call was from our Mom she was calling us back home.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Chapter 5: Return and End.
Skye: What did Mom say?
Sister: She called us both back home.
Skye: What! why now?
Sister: 50th Wedding anniversary of our grandparents.
Skye: Do we have to go?
Sister: I think so. Mom was scolding us because we haven't been home for more than 2 years now, I can't argue with mom.
Skye: That's true.
After our discussion, I told Amber we have to cancel our plan for a picnic which she understood.
Both me and my sister were kinda happy that we were going home after a long time. We haven't met our family and friends in a long time.
But I quickly got nervous when I looked at myself in the mirror and realized how different I looked now. My head was filled with negative thoughts. But the thing I was afraid of most was Mom! I can handle Dad but Mom.......is debate Queen! She was the one who restricted me from growing my hair long.
I went to my sister and told her my thoughts then she said...
Sister: Why are you panicking too much nothing will happen & I have told Mom that you have been growing long hair.
Me: What did she say then?
Sister: Well she was against it but I managed to convince her.
Me: What if she says to cut it.
Sister: Hey I said no that nothing will happen. Anyway, I have booked our train tickets for tomorrow evening lets start packing now.
Me: Ok but still...
Sister: Enough! I will support you if anything happens ok?
Me: ....ok fine.
Still, I bought a beanie cap to hide my hair. (Still afraid and nervous)
The next day we packed our things said our goodbyes to our friends and went to the station. Amber escorted us to the station. Before boarding the train I kissed Amber goodbye.
It was morning and 1 hour until we reach our village. We freshen ourselves up. I tied my hip-length hair in a bun then I took out the beanie cap from my bag. My sister saw the cap and said
Sister: Are you going to wear it now.
Me: Yeah I am still a bit nervous.
Sister: Whatever you like.
We reached the station and found our old friends Josh & Sana waiting for us. We greeted each other as we have met after a long time then sat in the car.
On the road when we all were chatting Sana suddenly said...
Sana: So Skye, what's the deal with that beanie? that to in summer.
Josh: Yeah I haven't seen you wearing any type of caps till now.
Me: Well about that...
I didn't want to lie to my childhood friends so I removed my cap and showed them my hair...
Sana: OMG!!
Josh: Damn bro.
Sana: It looks so big, Just how long is your hair..?
I undid my bun and let my hair down.
Sana: That's so long I am Jealous.
Me: Yeah it's till my hips now.
Sana: I can see that & it looks beautiful on you.
Me: Thank you, Sana.
Josh: Yeah you look so different now with that hair, but it suits you.
Me: Thanks, dude.
Sana: How did you even manage that hair? being a boy it must have been more difficult.
Me: Yeah way too much.
I looked at my sister and we both laughed and told my stories.
As we were reaching home I quickly tied my hair in a bun and put the beanie on.
When we reached we said bye and thanks to our friends and went home. We knocked on the door. (I was very nervous now.)
Our mom opened the door and as soon as she saw us she hugged us.
Mom: It's been so long I've missed both of you very much.
Both: We to mom.
She said to freshen up first then we will talk.
After freshening up mom gave us some food and snacks & she told us dad was out for work. Then she asked us about our city life.
Mom: Skye why are you wearing a cap at home that too in summer, is it to hide your long hair that I already know about.
Me: you knew?
Mom: Yes why wouldn't I. I am your mother Skye and your sister already told me about it. Now take it off.
Me: yes Mom.
As I was proceeding to take my beanie off I saw my sister holding her laugh which I don't know why. I got up and took off my beanie and then my hair came off my bun and cascaded down to my hips.
My eyes widened in disbelief as she put her hand on her mouth and then came to me to check my hair.
Mom: OMG I didn't know you have your hair till your hips It's longer than both of us and it is also trimmed in the ends like girls.
Me: I thought you knew.
Mom: I knew that you have been growing long hair but I thought it must be till your shoulder or at most till mid-back but who would have thought.
She was touching and checking my hair and said
Mom: They are so healthy that they look like girl's hair.
Me: Do I have to cut them now? (I asked nervously.)
Mom: No Skye They are beautiful you don't need to cut them.
Me: But I thought you hated long hair on me?
Mom: I would have if they didn't look good on you but they look amazing on you and I know how hard is to grow hair like this.
Me: Thank you, Mom. ( I said happily.)
Mom: But you will never wear caps it damages the hair ok.
Me: Ok.
We all talked about our life. I told her about my hardships and Amber which she said would love to meet her. She told me to invite her to our event which is in 2 days. Dad came in the evening he was shocked too but didn't care much. The next day I met all my friends and family in the village. Many were shocked and My grandma almost thought that I was a girl.
In the evening my mom told me to sit in front of her and told me that from now on I will brush and oil my hair.
She took the band out of my ponytail and started brushing my hair It was so soothing experience I told my mother that I love the feeling of you brushing and styling my hair.
She said that I had really beautiful straight hair that most girls will die to have. Then she asked me if I was planning to grow them longer to which I said "I hadn't thought about it."
She then put my hair in a perfect single braid and put it on my shoulder.
(reference: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/856246947891280052/)
From the next day, guests (family & friends) started coming for the anniversary celebration. Even Amber arrived in the evening.
Many guests thought I was a girl which was very embarrassing because I have to correct them every time. Some even thought I was Sharla wearing boys' clothes. Then I saw a girl I haven't seen in a long time. Her name is Susan she is a year older than me, She used to bully me when I was little. (She has shoulder-length brown hair) My mother forced me to greet her which I did...
Me: Hey Susan how are you?
Susan: I am fine but who are you?
Me: Don't you recognize me?
She scanned my face for a minute and said out loud
Susan: SKYLER is that you.
Me: Yes it is me.
Susan: You have changed so much and what's with that hair I thought you were some girl.
Me: Yeah that's pretty much what many people thought.
Susan: Well with that hair no one will think of you as a boy.
Me: I am used to that. ( I said shyly)
Susan: Still isn't your hair way longer than normal they are almost past your hip.
Me: Yeah I know but I think I like them longer.
Then we talked about our life and stuff and I moved on to work on other things related to tomorrow's event.
And Finally, the event day arrived everyone was busy from the morning everyone was managing something. The event was in the evening I got ready in a white and black blazer my hair was done in a long french braid and my sister forced me some light make-up.
(like this: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/402298179218266556/ )
Amber Wore a stunning red dress and hair in a Bun and my sister wore a blue dress with her hair down.
The anniversary party went great I met many people, Danced, eat dinner with everyone. But Something unexpected happened at the end out of nowhere Susan proposed to me to which I respectfully declined and said that I am already in a relationship with someone. She was looking sad and said I Understand and left.
I was surprised but ignored it and enjoyed the rest of the party.
The next day most of my guests left but Amber was still staying. It was afternoon mom was out with her friends and my sister & Amber went to roam the Market and Village I was alone at home watching TV then suddenly my doorbell rang.
It was Susan. I invited her inside the house. I asked what is she over here for. She said she was here to apologize for the other day.
She gave me a bottle of coke as an apology which we both drank and talked about yesterday. As I was chatting I started to get sleepy and as soon I realized something I was out.
When I woke up I realized I was tied to the chair in front of a mirror in my room. I saw myself, my mouth was tapped, hair was done in a double braid and I was wearing a skirt and a top. I started to panic when I heard her...
Susan: Ohh baby you woke up already.
It was SUSAN and she was wearing a different outfit than I saw before. All black leather outfit. I tried to speak up but I couldn't.
Then she came near me and started touched my braids and said...
Susan: Ohh Skye I love your hair and you look so beautiful like this.
Me: MHMMHHHH. (in my mind: what the hell are you doing.)
All of a sudden she started kissing me. She then removed the tape...
Me: Why are you doing this is it because I rejected you.
Susan: The pics I have and with you dressed like this if I post this online you will probably be humiliated and why I am doing this is because I loved you and you turned out to be a tranny and every time I see that girl around you I get angry.
Me: Please don't do this...
She then again tapped my mouth then she caught hold of my hair and looked straight into my eyes, then started pulling my braids and tickling me in my navel. I let out a moan.
Susan: You are already letting out a moan damn you are a big pervert.
Then she started torturing and humiliating me. She did this for 20 to 25 minutes then she stopped. She then goes outside the room. I tried to free myself but was of no use then she came with a scissor.
She came behind me removed my tape from over my mouth.
Me: What are you trying to do now? (panicking)
Susan: Though you disappointed me the only thing I liked about you is your hair. It's so long, straight & silky. Even girls don't have hair like this. If I don't deserve this then no one deserves this.
She then took one of my braids in her hand. I realized what she was doing and started crying and pleading.
Me: Please! Please! Please! Susan doesn't do this. Anything but this. (cryingly)
Susan: Ohh no that is what I am gonna do. I look forward to seeing Amber face when she sees you.
When she grabbed my hair in one hand and scissors in another I closed my eyes. Just as she was trying to cut I heard something.
I opened my eyes and saw Amber and my Sister grabbing Susan.
Amber: what the hell were you trying to do to my boyfriend you bitch. ( She Slapped her so hard she fell. )
Susan: How do you get in I was sure I locked the doors.
Sister: I always keep a spare key with me.
My sister grabbed her and tied her
Then Amber freed me and asked me if I was Ok and gave me a glass of water after that I told her everything that has happened and changed my clothes. Then my sister also slapped her and yelled at her in anger and called my mom and told her everything.
I asked Amber how they came so early she said...
Amber: We wanted you with us when we thinking of going to a restaurant nearby. We tried to call you but you didn't pick up so as we were near we got home and noticed the door was locked that's when we thought something was wrong.
Skye: Thanks for saving me Amber I was so scared she was trying to cut my hair. ( I was shaking and crying )
Then Amber hugged me and said don't worry now everything is fine. Then out of nowhere, she asked me if she would marry me. I was so surprised and happy that I quickly said yes and KISSED her.
8 YEARS LATER.
Me: Suzy! Arlo! Watch it.
Amber: Let them be they are just playing.
Me: They could get into trouble if they behave like this.
Amber: That trouble got me you.
Me: I was different but they...
Sharla: Cut them some slack will you...
Me: But Sis...
Sis: Let them be I will look after them.
Me: Ok. ( I said while pushing my braid back. )
I am now married to Amber and have 2 kids Suzy and Arlo now we Own our cafe which is managed by both of us.
And about my hair which I have is longer now ( because Amber forced me.) they are almost till my knees.
(like this: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/1065101380592606258/ )
Amber says me to grow them more longer to which I always say that I'll think about it. Both my kids also have long hair which both me & Amber have decided to let them decide if they want it or not. I sometimes wear the girl's clothes because most of the time Amber forces me to. My long hair is now quite famous in the cafe which I try to style in different hairstyles. But still, I mostly keep them in braids because I love that hairstyle.
Thank you everyone for reading my first story.