by Essarr
MY Magic PDA part 1
Bob and Megan, a married couple in their final years retired for the night. Just before drifting off to sleep Bob made an off hand comment to which Megan agreed with a slight twist. They did not know something was listening and granted their wish. How will this challenge work out when they hardly know the rules of the game?
Sept 20, 2011
Newly edited through the unforgiving seventh grade English teacher. There are a few minor changes but nothing to alter the story. You will notice a change from first person narrative to third person in some scenes. This is intentional. The primary focus is from Bob/Sarah's point of view. I shifted to third person when Bob/Sarah was not involved in the scene and for areas where scene setting is involved. With that in mind it should lessen any confusion. I trust this helps convince you there is a method for the writers madness and it is not a lack of skill. This decision may be a failure but I did it on purpose.
Rights reserved by the author with permission to host granted exclusively to Big Closet.
Muffled voices broke through my dreams as I could hear parts of an agitated discussion. An amber glow from a small clock reported it was one a.m.
“We have to clamp down”. A male voice said with urgency followed by a softer reply, “yes you are right but nothing has worked yet.”
I turned over burying my face into the pillow. I thought. 'This is another screwy dream.' Then there was nothing until I could feel the vibration of my cell phone. With my eyes firmly shut I pressed the offending machine to my ear. My face planted deeper into the pillow.
An angry slurred voice shouted “it’s 3 a.m. Where in hell are you with the money bitch?”
I hung up instantly shutting off the damn phone. I desperately tried to escape this dream from hell. Over the last year my wife of fifty years had suffered ever greater health issues. There is no way we could expect a rebound to better health. I remember the day before from within this stupid dream as I continually tossed and turned trying to wake. I focused on a silly conversation we had before I went to bed. After watching a science fiction movie, I suggested we could download into younger bodies. My wife, Megan laughed.
“You would like that me looking like that movie star.”
I shrugged replying, “not a bad idea.” Turning serious I added, “wouldn’t you do this over? I would if I could be with you.”
She sighed from behind tired eyes saying, “yes but this time you have the kids.”
My regard narrowed considering, “dear if that is what it would take to spend another lifetime with you, sure no problem.”
She smiled and turned over. “Go to sleep, you have no idea of results wrought from wishes. I love you for the thought.”
One more time I flipped to my other side at last having escaped that stupid dream. The voices had left and the dreaded cell phone remained off. Everything was good until I had to go to relieve myself. The bathroom was three steps from my bed. It was a large room with a wall length mirror over double length floor cabinet with soft blue night lights one to a side. The sunken tub sat just beyond the cabinet next to a toilet. A large walk in closet completed the room. I took one step out of bed with my eyes closed. Another step led into the darkened room. From the corner of my eye the blue light in the mirror caught my attention.
I never turned on the light when taking these late night runs. Megan's dismay resulted in her complaints whenever I missed the bowl. I usually adjusted for this by sitting down to go avoiding any chance of a bad aim as turning on that light sometimes woke me and this night as with many others I only wanted to make a quick turn back into bed. The image startled me. There in the mirror stood a young girl about sixteen perhaps. She had this hideous spiked black hair with a stud in her freaking tongue. I blinked closed, my eyes, relieved myself and dashed back to bed certain I was still dreaming. Silence, nothing but silence and darkness remained until the faint beep, beep of an alarm startled me awake.
Here was that face again in the darkened mirror highlighted by blue light. I watched my hand in the mirror as it reached up to touch the black spike on the top of the head. I closed my eyes reopening them as my gaze caught that hideous stud in the middle of her tongue. Stepping backward I sat on the throne and emptied my bladder and by rote cleaned myself. Afraid to examine any more and convinced my dreams continued, I made my way back to bed. There was no relief as my eyes opened at the sound of another beeping. This time it was not the clock, it came from under the bed. I reached down and felt my PDA right where I left it last night. Certain I turned it off I picked it up. Fully awake I glanced around the room it was similar to the one where I had gone to bed with Megan last night. Identical except for the single twin bed I occupied.
Again the PDA beeped. Flipping the lid open I discovered I had turned it off last night. How could it be beeping? I ignored it for the moment and starred at the night stand partially groggy.
The digital alarm that awoke me was not there the night before. Instead a simple clock radio regarded the space. The time reported to be six A.M. I reached under my pillow for the cell not finding it. Bending over I scanned under the bed, there was no sign of it. Confused, wondering if I was really awake, I stood ignoring the stupid beeping by tossing my pillow over it. I was wearing a black silk pajama in a style of shirt and trousers. I returned to the bathroom mirror to gaze at the person staring back at me. She was a teen perhaps sixteen or seventeen and stood about my old height of five foot eight inches. I actually caught my breath when I realized those breasts were smallish. It was a relief, at least getting used to those mounds would be easier, the smaller the better.
I retained a fading hope that I was still dreaming. No sounds flowed from anywhere in the house. I could see out the window and glimpse a tall mountain in the distance. It looked oddly familiar. This was a stand alone house and not an apartment. Not that it makes an immediate difference at the moment. Who the hell is this kid and how did I get here? Wherever here is. Another beep catches my attention and I disconnect the battery to shut the annoying PDA off. I am not ready to face whoever is waiting for me.
Back to the bed I sit with my PDA in my lap with the folding mini keyboard and battery attached. I glance to the lower right corner of the screen the clock reports six fifteen, August 30 but no year. That is odd, I think. I double click the time to open the calendar. I see only month, day and time reported in annoying red flashing digits. Biting my lip I finally boot up to see a flashing box. You have a message! I am surprisingly calm considering I am a seventy year old male with a doctorate in computer programming harboring the body of a late teen female Goth. I hit the button to read. Interactive Text start with enter key.
“Hello Sarah.” flashes on the screen.
I respond by typing, “you mean Bob.” In almost an instant the screen flashes again, “not anymore Sarah in case you have not noticed Bob does not fit.”
I take another deep breath before firing off a response. “Why don’t you tell me what this is all about preferably, before I wake up. I’d hate to repeat this dream again tomorrow.” With almost no pause a text appears.
“This is no dream we heard your offer last night and decided to take you up on it. The Boss downloaded you and Megan into other bodies. You are also in another time period."
“Downloaded,” I type, “you mean I am a freaking Cylon?”
Within seconds a return message appears, “download is an easy way to describe it. The actual mechanics are beyond your grasp. Just be quiet and listen. You were given this opportunity because the boss likes you and considers your life long behavior deserving.”
I type, “great what about Megan where is she?” Then wait for the response more convinced this is a bad dream gone viral. A convoluted answer follows.
“all in due time. You are in the body of a screwed up kid that died tomorrow.”
I blink while typing, “tomorrow? If it is tomorrow how can I be here and where the hell is she?“ Whoever I was texting followed with an incredulous almost sarcastic response.
“Sarah, Sarah, I, don’t have time for this. Consider if we can do what you see before you. Why is it so hard to believe we can replace her before the fatal act?” I, don’t respond and listened as he or it continued. “If her actions had not changed others that were important, we would not have interfered.”
“So,” I begin, “this must be a short test change events by tomorrow and be on my merry way.”
I thought this is getting weird. Though, I want the information I am not too comfortable having a conversation with an unknown actor. I have to humor it to get answers, unless I wake up that is.
“Oh but it will take longer than that. I will explain. Sarah screwed up big time as she rebelled and gravitated toward the drug culture. Her loser of a boy friend conned her into giving him a large amount of her inheritance which she turns over tonight. Sarah has a trust fund given her by her grandmother.”
I jump in with, “Let me get this straight. I am a drugged out little Goth witch who gives her money to a loser and gets killed for it.”
He responds in a cynical manor. “That about sums it up Bob. Except it gets worse. The result causes the girl‘s mother to have a heart attack.”
I exhale even more slowly. I write “just what am I supposed to do? What about the real owner of this body?”
Growing more impatient it interrupts, “I was coming to that. You need to stop the events and get the kid’s life back on track. The boss will then return the girl to her body if she deserves it and you and Megan will be reunited. It is not hopeless. The boss removed all traces of any drug effects and you are once again a virgin.”
With my eyes narrowing I type, “except the many guys who had her are not likely to forget. By the way how many are there? Just how much of a slut am I? Just who is the boss? I have to change the cycle of events and that is it? How long do I have?”
The answer is simple enough, that is for a dream right out the comedy channel, “as long as it takes. You nearly flunked your Junior year and the boss is expecting you to at least graduate high school. The boss is the head of the universe, God for lack of a better name. It was easy for him to wipe their memories of your sexual favors. How many does not matter for now it never happened.”
I blink, thinking rapidly, “a year! What about Megan, don’t tell me, she is the freaking drugged out boy friend.”
A rapid response flashes across the screen, “no, no, you won’t know who Megan is but he,,, ops, has a different task.”
“You slipped.” I replied, “Megan is a he! I bet she let you have it over that.” I waited for a long moment the answer coming after a pause. Then I considered it typed the answer followed by ops meaning that slip was intentional.
“All I can tell you is he is dealing with it and is no longer pissed at you for causing this.”
“Wait a minute!” I nearly scream typing in all caps. “It was not my idea to become a Cylon Goth witch. I only mused about how far I’d go to relieve the pain Megan endured. Don‘t blame your interference on me ”
There was silence for a moment before a response appeared. “Sarah you are not a Cylon, you don’t have to be a Goth that is for you to change. As for witch, you might be, I can’t say but the boss has been known to do that.” I gasp, followed by a quick response, “what now?”
The question raised by the rapid response to my gasp caught me a bit and I blurted out. “I think, and you hear me? Why in the hell am I typing?”
“It was easier for you to handle my girl,” said the voice appearing in my head. He did not wait for a response before continuing.
“Keep your PDA hidden. Once a month on the last Saturday you can communicate with Megan. You are not allowed to reveal who or where you are. That information will not transmit. You are in the year 1979 so you know why that PDA is a secret.”
Did I hear that right? I could not let that go. “You are telling me that your screw up in 1979 is so urgent you waited until 2011 to bring me back in time to correct it? That makes no sense. Did you consider whatever I do will also create changes?” I sat back thinking ‘I got you now.’
The answer was even more of a reach. “The boss has a difficult task running the universe. Sometimes events are missed. I will keep it simple. The girl, Sarah is an important cog in the wheel. Without her descendant an important event that must take place in 2013 cannot happen. Alas any minor disruption you may cause will be of little importance. Your assistance will only prevent this girl from destroying herself, among other little events.”
I, grew weary of this cryptic BS. I exclaim “1979 and we are communicating over an internet. There is no internet in 1979." With a chuckle, I consider the opportunity to purchase some of the stock winners. I respond with, “ok so when do I wake up from this dream?” The PDA goes dark. I reboot it to discover all my programs are there but no internet when I read. “it has not been invented yet.” I consider that adding, “either has any of these programs,” only to read. “Quit bitching enjoy.”
Dangling my feet off the bed I consider this sick joke as I am clearly not dreaming. I have to ditch the boy friend, not give him the money tonight, avoid getting killed and turn a rebel into an honor student. Then just perhaps I get to see Megan again. After that just what is my next magical trick? When was that Microsoft IPO? I muse with a half smile. The voice says, “not for a couple of years.”
“How do I get in touch with you?” I ask aloud. “Turn on the PDA if I have anything to say you will hear me,” comes the reply followed by another voice from a distance. It was not my friend in the magical PDA. No friend is not the right attribute. Handler sounds more like it. This voice came from downstairs. “I hear you are up and moving around. Hurry up and get down here your father wants to talk with you before he leaves.”
Great I think no respite and I have to figure this mess out. “In a few I have to get dressed,” I yell down. Before doing anything else, I bury my PDA into the dark recess of my closet and notice my cell phone is not under the pillow. It went the way of the digital alarm. Cell phones for all practical reasons were not as we know them now. They were mostly mobile phones used in cars, weighed over two pounds and were not very compact. I could see my pulling this little thing out of a purse everyone would freak out and it would not work anyway. How in hell can I get along without the internet? I, shrug and shovel through my closet for clothes. I look through the array of every ugly costume that could possibly exist. I am not a fashion expert but I know gross and this kid mastered in gross. There is nothing here that I could possibly show this body in. Exit the closet and rummage through the drawers. I manage to find a pair of jeans and a silky cream colored tank top, oh well. I grab a pair of boy type nylon panties and a bra and head off to the shower. Mother I suppose, again commands my presence, “are you dressed yet”
I yell back “getting out of the shower, give me a few.” I, can’t get used to this voice, though it sounds nice it is not me. As I stare into the mirror looking at that butt ugly black mane I start beating it with a brush. At least the towering spikes disappeared but there is no semblance of order. Better yet I found no tattoos while examining myself in the shower. I fluff up the hair here and there wondering how on earth do women do it? The problem is I appear to have none of this girl’s memories and will have to fake it. She must have a diary around here someplace. Speak little and listen hard perhaps we can pull this off. I look at the clock and it is well short of eight A.M. What kind of kid gets up before eight on a Saturday? Not this one I bet. With a shrug exhaling a breath of exasperation I open the door to step into the breach.
A long hallway lined with a highly polished maple spindle railing led to the carpeted steps. On a floral paper printed wall was a family portrait. I stopped to gaze at it noting a very attractive blond woman and a handsome man. Both are in their late thirties and of fine health. They stood behind a girl sitting on a straight chair like what you would find in a dining room. Perhaps thirteen or fourteen and quite pretty. Like the mother she had a pixie style blond hair cut. Pixie style is my best description. What do I know? It looked like a young Meg Ryan. I am sure they had a name for it that escaped me. I never did pay too much attention to that stuff. A sudden thought almost brought a chuckle as I mused. The voice said I might be a witch. That begs the question what would Hermione do? That is easy, she’d simply point her wand at the picture whispering, replicate! I suddenly noticed that girl was me. What the hell happened to her? I descended the stairs knowing I had to find that wand.
The stairs empty into an open area on the first floor between the living room and a dinning room. To the left my parents are sitting at the table finishing breakfast. Mom is wearing a sweat suit and dad a tee shirt and jeans both looking very much like the couple in the picture. I walk past mom behind her chair and pour a cup of coffee without saying anything just offering a nod of the head. I sit quickly opposite them as they occupy each end of the table. Mom looks at me with a disapproving gaze while dad’s eyes widen as he mumbles, “coffee?”
I simply nod again knowing better than to start a conversation. The extended silence almost last forever until mom speaks up. “You have to do something with that hair.”
Dad raises his brow while nodding his agreement. Then interjects, “That is the least of it. You are aware we are at our limit with your acting out. It is a good thing there is nothing lower than a grade of F.”
I almost offered another "whatever," but thought the better of it. Instead I agreed to try to do better.
Have you ever wanted to say, "screw it" and run out the door screaming? Just run with no destination. I almost did. That is how I felt it suddenly appeared like I was thrown into the deep end without a life line. I let out a silent scream, 'Megs where the hell are you' I need you now. My withdrawal was broken by words every kid has come to know at one time or another as my father spoke in a steady firm controlled voice.
“Sarah, you are going to change starting now. He added the word teenage girls hate, "grounded forever." Then came his pause for effect. He was not through. “This afternoon you and I are going to take a drive to Pinewood. Before that mother is taking you to get that awful mess out of your hair. You need to look presentable for school next week.”
I rolled my eyes listening. God, he is good! I thought, before saying something stupid.
“Pinewood, is that a cemetery, why are we going there?”
The silence was deafening. I knew I should have simply said, whatever, if I was compelled to speak at all. “Young lady,” came dad’s measured response, “considering your behavior it just might be. It is a private school that is quite demanding. I had to pull a lot of strings to get you in there. We need to introduce you to the dean and pick up your uniforms”
I could think of a lot of one liners such as, just like the president you hid my grades? I decided to keep quiet. It's different president and being a wise ass at this moment not a good choice. Instead I simply nodded my assent. Mom looked stunned I sensed she expected some sort of loud protest. I simply smiled at her asking “when are we going to the barber shop?” I began to consider they were doing exactly what I needed but I should display some resistance for show. This girl would have demonstrated some level of temper. My being new at this girl gig I had no idea how much temper is too much.
Mother smiled repeating “barber shop.” That is not a bad idea because I was thinking how cute you'd look with a buzz cut.” She sipped her coffee ignoring the bait I threw into the water while turning her attention toward father. “Martin why don’t we meet you at the school after we finish at the hair dresser?”
Dad leaned forward considering before nodding his assent and turned toward me. “You are rather quiet, do you have anything to say?”
I rolled my eyes at a complete loss and could only utter a single word, “whatever.”
Mother stood walking straight toward me in a sudden motion. I blinked thinking she was about to slap me. Her eyes widened as she passed wordlessly stopping at the sink where she rinsed her cup. “Whatever, is that all? Meaning whatever you say dear father, I will cooperate? Or whatever, you think you are not in control and I will do whatever I want? Before you answer consider we are going to do what is in your best interest.” She sat back down issuing that look mastered by parents over years of war with teenagers.
I still did not respond verbally but rolled my eyes in the classic whatever display. Father leaned forward cryptically saying. “We are doing this because you told us this is what you wanted.” Stunned, I shot back, “when did I ever say I wanted this?”
Father smiled broadly as leaned forward chin resting in his palms braced by elbows on the table. “Let’s see you chose to be truant, not do your school work and fail classes. You decided to turn a pretty girl into a Goth and run with a crowd of criminals. By your actions you stated clearly you could not make decisions in your own best interest. You screamed loud and clear that you needed tighter restrictions, tougher rules, more supervision and clear boundaries. Because we love you, we are giving you what you said you needed.”
My eyes grew wider as my mouth dropped open unable to answer. Another eternal moment occurred before I could form a response and when I did this came out. “Mother what time is the appointment? I need to go to my room and rest I am tired.” Mother’s expression was one of calm surprise. My answer shocked her as she expected exactly the opposite of how I presented. She could not figure out my attitude shift. My eyes shifted toward father trying to read him. Having raised three kids myself I recognized this guy is good.
Gretchen, that is mother’s name, answered “1 o’clock be ready, you can go to your room but no phone.”
It took seconds for me to exit the table run upstairs and close my door, loud enough for them to hear. I quietly opened it and crept toward the railing to listen. I could hear mother's voice. “What do you think?’ Father responded “it went better than I expected. Is it the quiet before the storm?”
Back in my room I searched frantically for that diary. Without any luck I only managed to create a pile of clothes on the closet floor. I closed the door resolving to make a trip to the Goodwill with a large donation. In desperation I flipped opened the PDA to find a message. “You did good, not too over the top. The diary is under the rug behind the dresser.” Way to go voice, I mouthed silently.
Sitting on the bed legs tucked under me in a position I could never have achieved before waking up in this state. I read and processed the information that was Sarah. I had to pay attention to hygiene which was becoming more and more of a pain. It is a radical change from my old form requirements. I could not wait to complete this mission and get back to normal. Gazing into the mirror I thought, girl you could be a real heart breaker if only you weren’t so screwed up. That obnoxious stud central to my tongue was a real pain, it had to go. How anyone could consider this to be an advantage was a mystery to me. How do I get rid of it? Then I thought of the voice and a devilish idea formed, What would Hermione do? I stared into the mirror sticking my tongue out. Pointing a finger at the stud like a wand I shouted, “Removify.” Feeling a bit foolish I blinked, the damn thing was gone. With an impish smile I wondered how far can I go with this. Worse, how do I explain where it went? Keep my mouth shut for now and claim I popped into the clinic later. Hours passed as it is now crowding noon and with a new understanding I stashed the PDA and went downstairs to face mother. I did not dare try the wand trick on my hair because I could in no way explain the change.
I did learn that father was an executive with an area lumber company. When this state, New York, began it’s attack on logging, lumber mills and everything concerning forest products it destroyed the local economy. Lost jobs caused severe financial hardships. Most working class families suffered. Many moved away. Those who stayed accepted low pay service level jobs. These well intentioned progressive ideas always have unintended consequences. Those who advocate policy changes are never the ones affected. It is always people like Sarah who suffer the consequences. People who had decent paying jobs not only lost their security they lost their sense of self as well.
Dad landed on his feet getting a high paying job with the phone company. Sarah took the brunt of it as the kids singled her out because her family did not suffer as most did. Her father had nothing to do with it but that did not matter. She rebelled buying into the notion her father was partly to blame for the economic destruction. Being an engineer I understood the need to protect the environment but I also knew the game was played by creating a villain. There never seemed to be a middle ground with these passionate issues. A fourteen year old became a target. She rebelled resenting both her parents and those who targeted her. She was essentially friendless and a tool of those from the dark side. I am a little more sympathetic toward the girl and beginning to take this personally. Because of the diary, I at least figured out I was in NY thousands of miles from where I had lived. But exactly where I am not sure and it is not a question I could simply ask, “hey mom what is the name of this town?” Sure I will ask that question. That mountain out the window I think I know what that is, hmm.”
The ride to the salon was done in almost total silence. Mom was acting a bit defensive as if she expected me to bolt out of the car at any minute. I decided perhaps some non threatening conversation would help.
“How long is this going to take?”
Mom took a deep exasperated breath. "Are you planning to go somewhere? Because, you are not." Since you ask, it will take an hour.”
I exhaled slowly for dramatic effect. “Then we go to the prison right?”
I heard an exaggerated sigh. The woman to my left, spoke again. “I am not your enemy we are only doing what is best for you. Clearly, you are not happy where you are going to school. Think of this as an opportunity for a new start. I volunteered to drive you the twenty-five minutes each way on a daily basis because I love you.”
Sarah most likely would have come back with a snippy one liner. Instead I changed the subject. “Do we have any of those thirty gallon leaf bags at home.”
Gretchen blinked, “What! Why are you going to rake the lawn?”
I laughed, “no I need to clean out my closet and make a trip to Goodwill. I doubt my present wardrobe will fit my new style. By the way, what do you think if I get it cut short, feathered in layers covering my ears with a slight touch of bangs? I want it sort of like yours but not the same.”
Mother almost slams on the breaks. She, stammers “are, are you serious?
I answer, "of course I am."
Mother responds "I’d like that done in your natural color. Why did you suddenly change your mind?"
Capitulation is never easy and having never been a rebel I had no interest in playing one. I was aware to achieve my assignment an end to this war of attrition must be found. There were bigger battles to fight. From what I could determine the enemy was not Sarah’s parents. Not only did I need to figure out how to get through this mess I needed a safe place to operate. To answer her question was not easy. Better to say little, “because it is time?”
I sat in the chair as Gloria approached with a perky persona chirping non stop as she began her work on my wild crop. I had instructed her that I liked the look of O.N.J. on her Physical album cover and wanted my natural honey blond coloring back. The album had not been released yet. Try explaining the Physical look when the rage is a few years in the future. Gloria handed me a book and I found something close. In about an hour she finished and here I sit gazing into a mirror with a younger version of Olivia looking back. I wondered what Megs would say if she could see her old man now. I just starred as Gloria waited for my reaction. All I could think of is wow, I like the new me. All I could say is “cool.” All I lack is the singing voice and the Australian accent.
Mom was speechless and obviously quite pleased as we walked back to the car. She kept repeating statements like “Your father will be pleased.”
She made attempts to sell me on the new school. I was not too thrilled about that aspect. It was like being thrown to the wolves. I may be able to fool the adults but the peer group is a different animal. I never gave a thought to the possibility the new Sarah would be viewed as a trophy, worse yet she is hot! It proved to be a twenty five minute drive to the outskirts of a medium sized city where a stately Victorian array of ivy covered buildings formed the school’s campus. It looked like something set in the English countryside. I could smell preppy it reeked of preppy.
Inside we met the stuffy middle aged portly Dean having indicated the term Head Master was out dated. Groveling appeared to be the preferred persona so I remained as silent as I could while the Dean droned on about tradition, selectivity and honor. They had a limited number of seats. He claimed the school allowed for two hundred students spread through four year levels. Fortunately for us a few in the coming senior year caused a scene and were asked to leave. Mother and father did all the talking as I mostly looked out the window hoping to avoid any evaluation. That was not to be as they ushered me into another room where I spent the next hour taking some dumb tests to establish my basic ability. With that done we were given a tour of the grounds and buildings. Again the Dean droned on and on. I contributed only a few yes and no sirs doing my part to schmooze keeping parents and Dean happy.
Another hour had passed before the dean was approached by a smiling lackey. Then read the paper mumbling, “very good, very good. Your daughter Mr. and Mrs. Ryan is very impressive”
I blinked not sure if this was a good thing or not as he droned on.
“You will start Thursday after the weekend’s holiday. We will go to the office for your schedule and don’t forget to get your uniforms. Three sets didn’t you say Mrs. Ryan?”
Mother nodded and the Dean followed with, “Blue blazer, white blouse with a blue and gold plaid skirt. No more than an inch above the knees and of course you can wear navy tights during the cold months.”
I rolled my eyes thinking great I hoped to avoid skirts and tights. I thought myself as a jeans girl. Megs will love this. Now I have to get home, talk to Megs and figure out how to get rid of the inbred Mark. Yes, the sick boy friend has a name. All of this right after a trip to Radio Shack.
We ate at the local Mickey D’s arriving home at six pm. Talk about cutting it close, in an hour I could contact Megs. At least I’d know if she was firmly on the ground. Though I am uncertain how she is viewing our circumstance. Did I really create this mess? Does she really want to work toward our reunion? Is she pissed about being a guy or worse yet does she like the idea? Too many questions and I still have to lay out my plan to deal with that loser Mark. I suspect from Sarah’s brain washed writings this guy is dangerous.
I picked up several trash bags along with my uniforms and told my parents I would be spending the next few hours cleaning out my closets. Hopefully, this will give me cover and time to talk with Megs. They simply smiled upon hearing the information probably hoping this new Sarah was not another trick. I threw together one bag rather quickly and dragged it downstairs.
Father intercepted me as I rounded the corner into the dinning room toward the outside door.
“You were serious” He said with a pleased tone.
Still walking toward the door I answered, “Oh yeah the Goth thing has gone past its prime.” It was the first thing that came to mind.
Dad smiled saying “You can throw it the back of my car. I will take it to Goodwill Monday on my way to work.”
Upon my return from the car I added “I have a lot more.” A bit relieved I did not have to do it myself.
Dad gave me a hug as I turned toward the stairs. Mom just looked doubtful but at least she appeared a bit more relaxed.
Back on my bed I booted up just before seven and the Voice greeted me with another warning. “I am listening you cannot reveal who or where you are or any details of your circumstances.”
I nodded my assent with no response and the voice after a long moment repeated his warning.
“Did you hear me?” He asked.
My eyes widened and I began typing rapidly answering in the affirmative and asked. “Where is Megan?” I did not expect an address but rather inquired when will she be connected.
“She will be right on I will be quiet now” the voice answered.
“No wait” I typed in caps because I‘d rather read lines of text than hear voices in my head.
The voice came back “what is it?”
“I wanted to know this Mark fellow can I reach him on the PDA?”
“What an odd question I think you can tap into his phone by typing the number. Why do you ask?”
The voice sounded interested as my query caught him off guard.
“As you know my problem is tonight and perhaps I need to call him to set up a meet. It is not like I can use the phone and getting out of here is not the easiest scam to pull off.”
My handler gave off a thoughtful hum before answering.
“The powers of your magic PDA can handle that. You type he hears your voice and his words come back to you as text.”
“Thanks now where is Megan.” Before I can add anything else, he is gone and a single word pops up on the screen.
"Hi" the one word message appears on my screen.
“Megs?” I type excitedly.
“Bob?” she responds.
My head is spinning as I fire away. “How are you how are you feeling?’
“I am feeling great, never better. This is really weird.”
Megs goes on for a minute longer telling me she is not sure she likes being a guy. Then she admitted there are some advantages. Somewhat relieved I asked her. “You are not mad at me for creating this mess?”
How could you know babe? You did not do anything other than worry about me. You have always looked out for me?” She then added. “Speaking about babe, I hear you are quite the looker.” As is her nature she responded with teasing.
I grimaced, “Uh it takes some getting used to. Though, you caught on quickly calling me babe already. I know you can’t say anything. How hard is what you have to do?”
She assures me that it is nothing too difficult and is hopeful we will be reunited soon. I find it hard to think of my wife as a he. I agree to that again. While seeking reassurance I ask, “is everything is ok, you are all right?”
Again she assures me that things are different but she feels great. She did question who is in charge. The little man salutes every cute girl she sees.
I laugh before typing “It goes with the territory and leave the cute girls alone.”
We talked for about thirty minutes and I did learn she could see the same mountain from her bed room window that I could. Meg was always great with descriptions and to non mountain climbers one mountain looks much like another. But her description of a series of slides appearing to spell the word no was the tip off. The voice soon disconnected us until next month but I was certain Meg was in this town. Now to figure out who he is.
I read Sarah’s diary again. She revealed Mark and his friend were low life drug dealers who got her hooked on meth. She paid for her habit by doing favors for both Mark and Walter. She only had sex with Walter to prove her love for Mark. Mark said watching her do Walter gave him great satisfaction. She was convinced by Mark to give him three thousand dollars from her account. If she did not, Mark’s creditors would do him considerable harm. She was to give him the money by this evening. That explains the three A.M. phone call. Obviously Sarah had not drawn the money out of the bank. Unless she got it yesterday and hid it somewhere. I know I did not go get it and Sarah was removed before 1 A.M. “What about it voice when did you remove Sarah?’ I typed into my laptop.
His rapid response spread out on the screen. “Yesterday, right after a blow out with her parents after dinner, why do you ask?” Came the quick response to which I replied.
“I need to know if she got the money for her friend.”
The voice said, “no it was up to you to get it today.”
Slightly bent out of shape I thanked him for setting me up. “There is no way I can get it now. Thanks for not telling me. Is there anything else I should know? It is fun playing your games but the least you can do is explain the freaking rules. Like how many other people are screwing this babe?”
The voice showing irritation fired back. “I told you no one that has been erased.”
I considered this a moment. “So Walt does not remember banging Sarah. About my lover Mark, I have a plan but a few more details will help.’
The voice assured me that neither of these guys remembered having sex with Sarah but they both were going to do her big time when she showed with the money tonight. I signed off letting him know that I was less than pleased with this operation. At least that saves me a conversation with my parents trying to figure out the girl’s actions yesterday. I’m not sure I wanted to know about the big blow out. It was time to test my theory.
I reached into the dresser and pulled out a pair of shorts and threw them on the floor. Let’s see if that finger works. I recall a spell from my studies of Hogwarts. Yeah I know it is fantasy and pure fiction. Then again here I am a seventy year old man in the body of a seventeen year old girl using a PDA that has not been invented yet. I look at this angelic face in the mirror and fully believe that Hogwarts spells just might work. Looking down at the shorts I point my magic finger and said, Engorgio. The shorts blew up from a size three to a size twelve in seconds. I smiled broadly, pointed my finger again saying Reducio. Bang back to a size three. Grinning even more broadly I mused I like this. Let’s try another one. I walk into the hall close my eyes and focus on my bathroom. I think Apparate, suddenly I get dizzy and find myself standing in the tub. This is going to take practice. So I am a witch. I, don’t know how good but we are going to find out.
I open the PDA and type in Mark’s number and quickly hear, “What’s up babe, got the money?’
I respond rather quickly by typing Obliviate Sarah. It is a spell that erases whatever you dictate from the target’s memory. I am counting on it causing Mark to forget he knows me. I heard Mark saying “Who is this?”
I answer, “You don’t remember me. I am Walter’s girl is he there?”
The phone is handed over because I hear, “Hello.”
I quickly type Obliviate Sarah.
“Look bitch quit playing games whoever you are.” I hung up.
I am not sure if that worked but the reaction suggest it may have. I accomplished task number one. All I have to do now is complete a school year and find Megs. I have to know if this worked because I don’t need to be ambushed by a couple of thugs. I sit there for several minutes feet dangling from the bed. I decide that I need to sneak over to Harry’s Dog Shack. That is where Mark and Walter hang out. If I walk in and they, don’t know me then all is well. If they do, I sure hope this apparate spell works.
The problem became how do I get out of here? Sarah’s diary informed me of her oft used route down the trellis from her window. Thanks to the short hair there was no need to tie it back. I simply donned a Yankee baseball cap which I promised to lose before I get back. The tight jeans were a chore to snake into but with a sloppy blue sweat shirt I was ready to go. I spied my purse on the bed stand. Shaking my head in denial, no purse for me, I jammed my essentials into the pockets of my jeans and crawled out the window. It was a bit shaky descending down that trellis but soon the feet were secure on the ground I quickly scampered into the trees. Having never done this before, I was rather out of my element. I shrugged, in for a penny in for a pound, closed my eyes concentrating on the village park in my mind. The non verbal thought of apparate repeated through clenched teeth deposited me near the bandstand. God, I thought, thank goodness no one saw that. I have to be more careful. Without warning I could hear the Voice comment, “yes you do.”
I could see the dog shack across the main street on the other side of the park. I approached the door tepidly entering quietly. There sat Mark and Walter in a dark corner. Sarah had their pictures, that is how I knew. Ignoring them, I walked to the counter and sat on a stool. I could feel their stares as unseen eyes measured my profile as if I am a piece of meat. I glance into a large wall mirror behind the counter watching their reflection. They are huddled together mumbling while tilting their gaze toward me. It is quite unsettling as the counter man walks over, “whadda you have?”
Taking a short breath I answer, “a dozen dogs with the works to go.”
He turns, placing the order into a white cardboard carton, closes it then hands it over saying, “three bucks.”
I fish three singles from my pocket handing them over and turn to leave. My way is blocked by Mark and Walter with the former saying, “you can’t leave just yet babe.”
I blink trying to step past him. “Out of my way I, don’t know you clowns.”
Walter steps closer saying, “quite true but you will before the night is over.”
He does not finish his comment as his leer is interrupted by an angry blond woman rushing through the door. She grabs Walter by the arm spinning him around. “Crawl back into your hole slug while you still can.”
Turning to me she says, “in the car.” Stunned I rush out directly to the car with mom marching behind.
The short ride home featured a non stop lecture ending with “you are grounded.”
I sheepishly respond “I only went out to get us some hot dogs.”
That was met with an icy stare and stone silence. It was only a ten minute drive but it seemed forever. Dad looked furious as he was greeted with mom’s ’I told you so stare’. I scampered up the stairs to my room. I no sooner settled down on a corner of my bed, opened up the PDA when Dad’s voice called up from the bottom of the stairs. “You better get down here the dogs are getting cold.”
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Bob and Megan, a married couple in their final years retired for the night. Just before drifting off to sleep Bob made an off hand comment to which Megan agreed with a slight twist. They did not know something was listening and granted their wish. How will this challenge work out when they hardly know the rules of the game?
The premise is what if. What if as a senior citizen you were sent back in time into the body of a teenager of the different sex. You were given a task to perform but none of the host's memories. You retained your own knowledge and memories. Could you navigate that world? What would the experience do to you?
Sept 20, 2011
Newly edited through the unforgiving seventh grade English teacher. There are a few minor changes but nothing to alter the story. You will notice a change from first person narrative to third person in some scenes. This is intentional. The primary focus is from Bob/Sarah's point of view. I shifted to third person when Bob/Sarah was not involved in the scene and for areas where scene setting is involved. With that in mind it should lessen any confusion. I trust this helps convince you there is a method for the writers madness and it is not a lack of skill. This decision may be a failure but I did it on purpose.
Rights reserved by the author with permission to host granted exclusively to Big Closet.
In part two Bob cautiously explores his new persona with little direction as he attempts to rebuild Sarah’s life. He learns trust once broken is difficult to reclaim. He finds an ally in Sarah’s grandmother and may have discovered who his wife, Megan became.
I again sat on the bed with PDA fired up after an eternal hour of eating hot dogs I did not want while listening to both parents wax on and on about safety, bad behavior and another week of grounding. My adult mindset agreed with everything they said while my Sarah presentation showed appropriate teen angst. I was actually feeling pretty good with my performance as deep down I knew the adults in the room would never accept total surrender. My task was clear straighten this kid out while displaying an appropriate amount of resistance. It seemed my association with the two criminals was dissolved. With my new look and new school perhaps the worst is over. I was ready to become Bob again and give Sarah her life back. My conversation with the Voice suggested other wise.
According to my handler I did in fact avert the death of the girl while avoiding a family disaster but everything gained would be lost by the return of the real Sarah. There was work to do such as getting through my senior year. I was also informed Megs was still working toward completing her tasks. The Voice would not hear of allowing us to work together. He will not allow us to know the others' persona.
There is this nagging feeling that whoever is pulling the strings is not exactly forthright. There is a plan I may not like in motion. It appears I am stuck for another year or at least the greater part of it. I had a bit less than a week before having to enter the terrifying halls of Yuppie Tech. It would be advantageous to be able to wander about town to understand the lay of the land but the hot dog stunt bound me to the house. It did provide valuable information that I needed to have. I went to sleep and did not have any dreams in spite of the adventurous and quite unexpected day I had.
It is bad enough my center of gravity is totally skewed. I get hit with another curve ball at breakfast. Mom announced I was going to spend tomorrow with grandmother. It seems my parents need a brake. I smiled inwardly. ‘I wonder why they need a day of respite?’ This means more research once I get back to my room. I spent considerable time reviewing Sarah’s scrap books looking at pictures of friends. I discovered it was a short list, though I did learn that Sarah and her grandmother were pretty tight.
I searched through the box of goodies I picked up at Radio Shack yesterday. I decided since it is 1979 I could at least enjoy reliving the Pirates drive to the pennant and world series win. Out came the transistors, capacitors and the like to construct an antenna so I could get the games on the radio. The damn PDA, magic as it was needed help as I simply could not pull the station up on the internet. I thought about that for a bit and considered if my abilities could actually pull that off or if I am a prisoner of A.M. radio reception. I had no idea if I could pull in a signal from that distance but I was an engineer. So up went the antenna mounted outside the bedroom window, just in case. It would provide cover if I were able to pull the magic PDA trick off.
Dad was working in the garage on a circuit board he appeared quite perplexed as I walked in. Looking over his shoulder I asked, “what’s up?” He answered by explaining he was trying to build an enhanced receptor for phone connections. He was trying to boost signal strength but it was not responding as he expected. I grinned pointing to his board layout. “You need to beef up the transistors by ten percent and you need another capacitor over there.” I pointed to the spot where I thought it was needed.
“You are always teasing me aren’t you Princess?”
I offered a pouting smile. “Yeah what do I know?”
Then I walked into the back yard. I turned on the PDA while sitting at the circular aluminum table under the oversized umbrella. The PDA appeared in size and shape as a small radio that everybody seemed to have especially when head phones were attached. I could talk to the Voice without typing providing plenty of cover. If anyone saw me, they would think I was zoned out listening to my tunes.
The Voice told me when I wanted to go up that mountain to ask dad. He would love to take me as that is his passion. I filed that as I starred at the Giant with a restless gaze. Unexpectedly, I heard dad approach and quickly put away the PDA. “How did you know that?” he asked.
“Know what?” I feigned
Dad smiled, “the circuit board.”
“Oh that,” I shrugged, “it is the same principal as used in the antenna I built.”
“Antenna?” he asked.
Nodding I answered, “remember the trip to Radio Shack? I wanted to build an antenna to get the ball games and picked up an instruction book. It looked like the circuit you were building was similar to the booster I used for the antenna.”
He looked doubtful shaking his head. “You were right are there anymore surprises?”
I smiled “will you take me up that mountain?” I pointed to the Giant.
Dad exhaled slowly appearing surprised but pleased, “next Saturday.” He starred at me for a long moment asking “Sarah are you in there?” Without waiting for an answer he went into the house. I begin to think perhaps I will get through this.
The next day I find myself standing in a garden while my grandmother draws a trowel between flowers planted in a row behind the house. Without looking up she says in a soft voice, “it’s about time.”
“About time for what?” I ask cautiously. She continues to move clumps of black dirt from one place to another without speaking. I repeat, “about time for what.” Again no immediate answer came. Eventually, she stands, turns slowly to face me. I can see concern in her still youthful wrinkle free face. She looks nearly as young as my mother.
“It’s about time you figured out who you are. I sense some progress was made in the past few days. Though, it came sooner than I expected.”
I stare at her blankly unable to think of what to say.
“What,” she begins, “You think you can cast simple spells without causing a ripple? You think I would not know? I thought you had the gift and was concerned how you would use it.” She finishes dusting herself off smoothing the wrinkles from her blouse continuing to measure my reaction with her gaze.
I stared at her for a moment before replying in a soft voice, “why would I even think you would be aware? I did what I had to do there was no mischievous or malicious intent.”
She stepped forward without releasing her gaze, “daughter you and I have a connection you must have sensed it. How else would you have known to do what you did?”
I sat down upon the garden’s low stone wall my expression emitting confusion betraying my thoughts of, ‘what in hell is going on here?’
Bemused grandmother sat next to me taking my hand, “you never suspected?”
“Why should I?” I answered quickly. “What am I or rather should I ask who are we?” I emphasized the word we.
Grams smiled softening her gaze, “in due time child. I can see you are just beginning to waken from your innocence. I sense there is something different about you. What it is, I, don’t know. There is something,” her voice tailed off as she stood. “We will talk more about it later.” She hugged me then stood back. “I admired how you handled the situation and I admit I was deeply concerned you would fail.”
As we walked toward the house my thoughts were confused. If she were so astute why in the deuce didn’t she stop it and why did the Voice need me in the first place? Am I being set up? “Grams” I asked. If you knew what I was up to why didn’t you stop me?”
She quickly turned clasped my hand and gazed deeply into my eyes. “I could not the rules are clear I must allow you to make your own mistakes. I knew the consequences if you made the choice I expected. Your sudden change shocked but pleased me. I, don’t pretend to know what changed.” She deepened her gaze adding. “You are different.”
Over a cup of tea I asked her, “so you were prepared to let me take the money and give it to those guys?”
She leaned forward shaking her head. “No, I ordered the brokers to disallow you the ability to withdraw more than fifty dollars a week.”
I gulped, “had I attempted to do that then what?”
She smiled. “Who knows what you would have done out of frustration. But you made the right decision.”
I took gram’s hand whispering “I love you.”
As I rode home with dad we did not talk much as I quietly watched the mountains we sped by. Grams told me. I was allowed to invest the money with a warning that any attempt to use my powers to influence those investments would cause ripples bringing down the wrath of those who could not be named. I giggled recalling my response to grams, “don’t mess with the Muggle’s financial markets.”
Her reaction was humorous. “The who?”
I simply said, “never mind,” thinking she is not ready for Harry and Hermione.
After a quiet dinner save references to the other night’s outing and how I had to learn responsibility and had to suffer the consequences of my actions I sat in my room. The hot dog trip was exactly what I needed to establish some credibility. It would not be believable if Sarah just went along. Resistance may have been futile but an appropriate display of resistance is what they expect. This girl is certainly screwed up if she could not understand her parents were killing themselves to give her what she needed.
The wealth of information in her diary was essential. It gave me idea who her friends were. More accurately said It reported who she despised. Just how was I going to fake being her? I learned she had no friends as her dead girl walking through the halls of public school shut out everyone. The goth persona was her wall to ward off entry. I was certainly not looking forward to presenting myself in the preppy girl’s school uniform. A fresh start with new people is just what we need. I berated the Voice bitching at him for all the information he withheld getting the lame answer that it is part of the challenge. He informed me that I should be grateful I was allowed the rote abilities that came with this body. I had to give him that. I could not have done makeup and deal with sanitary issues on my own without serious mistakes.
Gazing in the mirror the total babe I saw looking back amazed me. She is one serious heart breaker though I had no intent of exploring that area. Downplay was my plan. No makeup, except for a bit around the eyes. No lip gloss, no nail polish, though those nails were nice. Definitely no skirts just jeans, except for that freaking uniform. I did not look forward to that. Bored I went downstairs and saw dad sitting on the sofa watching the Yankee game. I tossed my ball cap at him, “here you keep it.”
He caught it in one hand while looking at me, “you don’t want it?”
I grit my teeth, “the Yankees suck. Did my new hat arrive yet?”
He smiled again “this will give us something fun to argue about for a change.”
I nodded looked at my watch it was seven thirty. “Got a half hour,” I said as I sat down.
Dad asked, “half hour for what?”
My antenna can’t pull in the Pirate game before dark.
He laughed, “that was an amazing job you did with that antenna.”
We watched the game for a little bit before I stood “Gotta go listen to my guys pound the Braves.”
Dad fired back, “have fun though it is a loosing cause.”
I could not resist, “at least my guys will be in the series.” then scampered upstairs.
I could hear mom comment to dad “what was that all about?”
He answered. “I, don’t know but I like it.”
It was a busy week as I buried myself in the girl’s writings learning all I could about her. It had become clear to me her isolation was pretty complete as not a single phone call came in from any of her old friends. Then again Sarah had no school friends and I wiped the memory of her from the bad associates. It presented a sense of security while at the same time an odd feeling of trepidation.
The week ended with the holiday and the trip up the mountain with dad. What surprised dad was my insistence to follow the ridge line a mile plus to bag another open peak. I drank in the glorious view that had not changed in the slightest from when my other self climbed it years ago. I enjoyed the energy this body provided as I had not felt this strong in a long time. I discovered, first hand that females are not as physically strong as men. The trade off came in form of my seventeen year old female form being stronger than a seventy year old man.
I questioned why I accepted the change so easily. My conclusion was going from seventy to seventeen had to have a price. This one cost me my gender but you play the hand you are given. Once I accomplish my task I will be my new self. So I promised me.
“What a great view,” I exclaimed.
Dad responded “I never bothered to come over here before. This is more scenic than the first peak. How did you know?”
I blinked, “magazines?”
It took less time to return to the car though that five hundred foot climb back up to the opposing ridge from the col between the mountains was a strenuous test. After a quiet dinner with my parents, appearing quite content I got up and washed the dishes. Mom looked at me with an amazed expression but said nothing. I responded to her gaze with, “what?”
She shook her head, “nothing.”
It is an automatic dishwasher no big deal I thought. I then bounded up to my room after informing them “T.V. sucks.” I wanted to use my PDA to consider this weeks actions.
The Voice arrived at once sounding a bit put off challenging me over placing all of Sarah’s money into five stocks. “So you decided to take advantage by growing the girl’s finances isn’t that cheating?” His scolding tone raised my ire.
I responded pointing out a few irritants on my own. "You allowed me none of the girl’s memories while asking me to clean up her act. Yet I am in the dark regarding a few minute details. Minor tidbits such as who in hell this girl is and what makes her tick. That handicap does not bother you.” Without giving him a chance I went on, “I am only using my knowledge and not manipulating a damn thing. You tell me by keeping me in the dark it adds to the challenge. So I am using what I know.”
He was silent so I continued. “When the kid comes back she will be better off. It is not my responsibility for any decisions she makes later. You can’t argue I am not taking good care of her. I am not making a dime off it.”
I sat back and finally the Voice acquiesced, “ok you are right no points lost.”
I had evenly placed the money into five stocks. One was a high rocket that peaked at tripling its price then dropped like a rock flaming out. I instructed the broker to sell at the triple price and spread the results over the other four. He questioned my choices but I was firm the other four are long term holds. The kid was going to have a pile when I was done. Why do it, when I gain nothing? Why not do it, I challenge myself. I’m bored sitting around here waiting to step into the fire.
Two days after the holiday I find myself standing at the entry way of Preppy tech dressed in this uniform that I never expected to be wearing. My skirt was an inch above the knee giving me the impression it was at my neck. The blue blazer nearly concealed the white blouse and those budding breast. The ones I have been afraid to touch or explore. The same ones that unbalanced my center of gravity and created a large concern. The angst is because I had grown so accustomed to them. I barely notice them anymore they feel natural. Now that is a concern. In truth the idea scares the hell out of me. The good part is I do not have to wear a neck tie like the guys do. It is that never ending feeling of exposure from below the hem line that really concerns me. How in the hell do you walk with your knees locked together?
I spun the dial to open my locker to grab books for the first two classes fully aware of the stares aimed in my direction. Most gazes come from guys getting a look at the new girl. A few evaluating glances come from girls measuring the new competition. Navigating this pool of sharks is going to be an adventure. As I walk down the hall toward my first class which is history I feel strange. It is like every eye measures every movement, every trace of my being, like I was quarry. I opened the ornate oak door to step into the classroom and am taken back by what I see. It did not look like a classroom it looked more like a large office with stuffed chairs and low tables. Room for perhaps ten people with a larger desk front and center. Yeah right I thought, there are only fifty seniors in the entire school resulting in small classes with no place to hide. At least the seating is comfortable.
Forty minutes passed easily as the teacher Ms Riley did not lecture the entire time. She stated her topic and forced students to question and discuss details. She challenged everyone to contribute and let no one off the hook. The problem is no one seemed ill prepared. I thought no faking it here. The topic is the American Revolution. She asked what was unique about it getting no answer from the ten skulls of mush in the room. As I waited for her enlightenment she turns to me. “Miss Ryan welcome to our school. I am sure you will enjoy it here.” I nodded 'thank you' still not wanting to step into it. She went on, “could you tell us what was unique about the revolution?” She must have known Sarah’s horrible school record and wanted to establish her superior standing. Did she really want to put the new girl in her place? I glanced back at her repeating the question. “What was unique about the revolution?”
I began softly as I leaned forward in my chair knees close together. “It was not a revolution at all.” Ms Riley displayed a bemused expression while the classroom produced an array of chuckles. The teacher said, “go on.” I continued “A revolution is an action to over throw the government and establish a new one.” She agreed. “Then consider what was there at the time. The colonies had self governed for nearly two hundred years with little or no control established by the crown. The colonies had established their own houses of government with their own elected leaders. They in fact were fighting to preserve the established government and protect the status quo. There was no intent to separate from England. If a revolution is to over throw the government how can you call this a revolution when your aim is to defend the established government?”
The silence was deafening while Ms. Riley beamed. “Miss Ryan”, she began. “You have defined the situation precisely no student has ever answered this question with such insight in my class before. I expect you will be a welcome addition, well done. You are correct.” I nodded satisfied and sat back. My eyes darted around the room everyone looked at me somewhat impressed. I wondered ‘what have I done?’
Each class room appeared as the first. I did not create the same effect in each. I, at least emerged unscathed. Finally, it was lunch time and another gauntlet to run.
A wide rectangle with tables and chairs you expect to see in a lunch room appeared before me. The far wall featured a row of windows providing ample light. After securing a plate of food that barely resembled anything identifiable, I looked for a seat. A tall guy walked toward me. He was on the cute side appearing overly confident. I thought cute what is wrong with me? I decided the Sarah side of me is supposed to notice cute guys. I shuddered at that thought.
“Hi” he said, “I’m Paul.
I nodded adding, “Sarah,” and paused. I did not shut him down completely when he asked me to join his friends in the corner, “perhaps another time.”
I continued walking forward when a girl from the history class waved her arms, “Ryan” motioning me to her. I stepped to her table, “join me?” She asked. I sat down looking at the attractive girl with dark eyes and black shoulder length hair. “You are Claire Wilson aren’t you?” She beamed, “you remembered from class.”
I placed my tray on the table and sat across from her smoothing my skirt. I learned the motion by watching Megan over the years. My small purse remained hanging by a shoulder strap under my blazer. I nudged it out of the way toward my left side as I ate slowly. Claire is rather subdued speaking softly and she is very interested in where I came up with that idea about the revolution. I just shrugged it off saying I had read that somewhere and the idea intrigued me. As I ate I glanced toward a group of girls sitting ten feet away or so. They were giving me the once over clearly trying to measure me.
Between bites I said to Claire, “is that the hot girls club?”
She smiled nodding with a whisper, “the cool heartbreaking cheer leaders.”
I smiled and before I could respond Claire added, “here he comes.”
I look up in time to notice Paul walk over his eyes darting between Claire and I as he sits between us. “Hi doll,” he says to Claire as he smiles to her, “I already met your friend.”
Claire pokes him mockingly, as she offers to me, “he’s my bf but hard to control. Paul Miller, who is to leave Sarah alone, understand?” She finishes in a stern voice.
Paul nods while looking at me. “I thought you would be over there,” directing his gaze toward the popular girls.
I shook my head “why?”
Paul begins with a sly smile, “with your looks you fit right in.” Claire elbows him.
Paul feigns injury as he, quips “I heard about the history class. You are too smart for them.”
If there was ever a trap this was it, I mused to myself. I knew the girls could hear him. Claire looked taken back. This is the time to try my witching ability and apply a bit of diplomacy or spread the b.s. I glanced at Paul then to the cheerleaders. I used my powers to transmit my speech to appear as a whisper. The point was to let the girls think they were overhearing.
“Paul are you suggesting those girls are all looks and no brains? I hate to break it to you but cheerleading is hard work you have to display athletic ability. A girl must constantly work to keep her appearance perfect. She must have excellent grades to stay on the team. Athletic, intelligent and good looks that is not easy.”
Claire’s eyes widen and Paul sits as if he were gob smacked. I could see the girls were taken back having heard that. Perhaps it will cut me some slack and avoid what I expected to be a turf war. I just wanted to be left alone.
The bell rang for class and I quickly headed to the door when a cheerleader caught up with me. “Hi, I’m Trish, we heard what you said, thanks”
I faked surprise saying “I thought I was whispering.”
Trish smiled “voices carry especially when we are eavesdropping. Paul is right you should consider trying out for the team”
I giggled adding a shrug, “I, don’t know about that you guys are likely way better than me. Thank You for the offer. I’ll see ya later.” Then ran to class.
I cautiously navigated through the balance of the day. Dressed as I am in a girl's school uniform is shocking enough to my psyche. Several boys sized me up with that come hither gaze I found unsettling. That will take some getting used to. At one point I scared myself when I realized I looked at them. I placated my alarm by denying an interest in boys. In my effort to feed my denial. I created the excuse. I was trying to determine which one is Megs. Claire and I had another class together and we exchanged phone numbers with the promise we would talk tonight. At last I am in the car on my way home.
Mom is doubtful of my new presentation. I can see that in her demeanor. She made small talk as she drove home. She asked non threatening questions such as “how was school? Did you make friends and the like?”
I just wanted to get home and shed this uniform so I am less than enthusiastic. I wanted to talk to Meg. I wanted to figure out who (he) is. I knew if I wore that black baseball cap with the gold P Meg was smart enough to take the hint. I never met a Pirate fan in Northern NY. They have not forgiven us for Mazeroski’s home run nineteen years ago. I still have the taped broadcast of that game. Well no Bob has that three thousand miles from here. With that thought I tightened up, ‘What am I doing? How do I get out of this mess? I want to see my wife.’ With those thoughts I laughed considering how a seventeen year old girl misses her wife. The old lady would go nuts if she heard that thought. Mom stared at me noting my sudden change of demeanor.
“What is wrong?” She asked.
“Nothing just stray thoughts, no biggie.” By three pm, we were pulling into the driveway.
In the front door and like a streak I run up the stairs practically diving into my room closing the door quickly. Within seconds the uniform was stripped off and I found myself in the shower. Washing this body is an adventure feeling sensations I never before felt. No it was not the first shower I took as Sarah but it is the first time I felt myself up. I shook my head at that thought, ’no I am examining my attributes nothing so crass as feeling myself up. That seventy year old man needs to keep those thoughts at bay’. When I stepped out I dressed in a pair of royal blue shorts and pink tee. As I brushed my hair my gaze froze upon the image. “O.M.G!” I exclaimed “I do look like her just like she did on the Physical album.”
I gazed at my legs then the face then the hair. I quickly ran back to the dresser, lost the shorts and threw on a pair of jeans before I went down stairs. Olivia had worn her hair longer until the Physical album release in 1981. The hair makes the difference. I relaxed a bit thinking ’they won’t say hey I look like O.N.J. Not for two years anyway and I will be gone.’ In the hall mirror I glanced at myself knowing full well the hair cut made little difference. I am still a babe and have to be very careful.
“Yes, you are beautiful.” My mother’s voice broke my trance. I wanted to say ‘I know that is what scares me.’ Instead in a small voice I scratched out “no more than you.”
I stepped off the stairs walking into the kitchen. I poured a cup of coffee from the always on pot and sat at the table, “mom?”
Gretchen cautiously entered still not convinced Sarah’s recent behavior is not another ploy as she waited for the other shoe to drop. Mrs. Ryan has seen this before as the cycle of resistance, rebellion and feigned cooperation repeated itself numerous times in the past three years. She was battle worn growing tired of the never ending war that raged between them. She wore pastel blue sweats while leaning against the kitchen sink slowly sipping her coffee considering her daughter. “Where do we go from here?” Without waiting for an answer she approached the table sitting quietly.
I slowly pushed a few sheets of paper along the table toward mother. “Will you sign these permission slips?”
Gretchen blinked as she scanned the forms, “excuse me you want to join the Outing Club and the Track team?”
Nodding, I narrowed my eyes, “I have not got anything else to do besides doing this I get excused from gym. I never went to gym anyway.”
Gretchen slowly nods her assent eyes searching my countenance trying to sense the my sincerity wondering if this is just another ploy. “Ok”, she pauses. “I want a school schedule of when and where for each event, including practice times.”
I smile receiving the signed forms thinking, ‘wow this girl has really burned her bridges the stench of distrust is over powering.’ “As soon as I get one from the school. You know I love hiking and as for track I like running. You never stop telling me, I should get involved in school.”
Gretchen agreed still not sold on this new Sarah.
The phone rang Gretchen intercepted it to hear grandmother’s voice. “It’s Grams for you,” mother said.
“Hi Gram how are you,” I asked cautiously. The soft but stern reply came, “did you hear about Mark and Walter.” I thought about this pausing before answering. “I, don’t know what you are talking about. What happened?”
Eleanor Parks, Sarah’s maternal grandmother drew herself up to her full five and a half feet. She exhaled slowly before answering.
“They were killed in a gun fight with drug dealers from the city.” She adds with a hint of irony, “about the time you were eating your hot dogs.”
I blinked pressing the phone close to my ear. ‘I came that close huh?’ I wanted to say good but thought the better of it. I considered inwardly ‘this is serious shit the Voice was not lying.’
Grams replied agreeing ending with “yes it is serious, just who is the Voice?”
I blinked, “the Voice? Oh that, just an inner feeling I get. It told me or should I say warned me.”
My eyes were wide not because of the information Grams imparted but as to how close I came to real trouble. I did not dare think.
Grams said, “let me talk to your mother.”
I gladly handed off the phone. “Mom can I use Dad’s word processor and printer to do my homework?”
Gretchen covered the phone nodding her assent.
Still shaking I enter father’s office walking toward the word processor and flop into the chair. I open my PDA nearly screaming in my head at the Voice, "are you there?”
Within seconds, “yes Sarah.”
Somewhat wired I begin, “excuse me but how come you never warned me about Grams? She can read my thoughts!” I repeated to the Voice how Grams heard my unspoken thoughts during our phone conversation.
“Calm down Sarah. She can only do that when you use the PDA or the phone.” The voice relayed trying to defuse my obvious angst.
“That makes me feel a whole lot better. Just wear a tin foil hat when talking to Grams on the phone. I feel much better now.” I pause realizing just how stupid that sounded.
“Sarah that won’t work. I suspect you know that.” Then the voice laughs, “I’d like to see you wearing one. I suggest don’t use the phone.”
I consider his suggestion for a moment. “You are telling a teenage girl to avoid the phone. Are you serious? Girl power rule number one is never, ever venture too far from a phone. How many other people do I have to worry about? This is not exactly a fair game here.”
With an exaggerated exhale the voice admits, “no one else at least yet. Your grandmother is the only one you should encounter with the ability. As I told you before discovery of information is part of the challenge.”
I close with, “thanks.”
It took an hour for me to complete and print out my homework. During that time I did talk to Claire on the phone. It was mostly a bonding and gathering of information about students conversation. I learned which ones were ok and those to avoid according to Claire. I tried to focus the conversation toward new students.
“Uh Claire, how many new seniors transferred in this year? I hear there were four.”
After a thoughtful pause, the answer came. “Let’s see, you, a girl named Erin and two guys. Let me think a moment, there is a hunk football player. Jake Gibbons is his name and the other guy looks like a geek.” She stops to gather her thoughts then continues. “Hal Cowles is his name.”
I respond, “a geek! You mean like a pocket protector and high water pants with suspenders?”
After a period of loud laughing Claire said, “you are funny. No silly he wears the same uniform as everybody else. He is cute about six foot but acts like a geek. You know confident, quiet, no obvious friends, like that. He seems to keep to himself.”
I emit a loud sigh, “oh I like did something radical.”
Claire wows “What was that!”
I whisper into the phone, “joined the outing club and thinking about going out for track.”
Claire processes this information responding, “at least you will meet Hal. He is in the outing club.”
I hear the outside door close. “Gotta go, dad’s home.”
I open my PDA searching for the Gibbons and Cowles families. 'Strange how this thing works when there is no internet.’ “What no comment Voice?” There is no response. Once finding the addresses I consider just where they are in relationship to my house and the school. ‘Interesting, you cannot see Giant Mountain from the Gibbons house. But’, my eyes widen, ‘from Hal’s you can. The door opens.
“Can you come into the kitchen Mom and I want to talk to you for a minute?” Dad says appearing relaxed and not too parental.
I stand nodding cautiously mouthing Ok. As I follow my thought race, ‘frak! Another family meeting just what I need. Upon entering the kitchen I hear myself humming the words, “maybe I hang around here a little more than I should.” I suddenly giggle. When the thought strikes me ‘God, I wish I had that voice. What do you think can this little witch conjure that up? As Bob, I remembered melting every time I heard that song.’ As Sarah, I don't wait for any cues. I go straight to the coffee pot. Then sit at the table with blue eyes tracing the caramel colored swirls as the liquid seeks its level in the cup cradled in both hands.
Dad begins carefully searching for words “the phone bill came.”
“Yes sooooooo.” I answer dragging out the word. "Doesn't this happen every month?"
In a resolute voice dad inquires “do you know anything about this call to Pittsburgh?” He pushes the bill along the table toward me. I set down the cup eyeing the paper cautiously.
My fingers trace to the offending line. “Oh that,” I offer while nodding. “KDKA radio station. I called the talk show to find out where to buy a Pirate hat. It is not like you can get one up here. You work for the phone company long distance is free.” I sit back thinking, 'point for me'.
Needing to establish authority dad announces, “that is not the point. You are to ask before making long distance phone calls.”
I offer another shrug dismissively. “You will see another on the next bill. Ben’s Sporting Goods did not have a toll free number.” I blink sheepishly while adding for affect, my little girl pout. “I ordered a hat.” I always knew dads were easy. When hit with that innocent pout.
Mom tries to stifle a laugh almost spraying her coffee. I remain silent maintaining my innocent gaze. Dad appears somewhat relaxed but must establish authority. “the next time you ask before calling long distance." What did the hat cost you?”
I stall at first admitting, “twenty bucks.”
It suddenly struck me ’that is 2011 prices. You were had girl. In 1979 we are talking five bucks.’ I retreat trying to become small in my chair.
Dad almost chokes, “twenty bucks what is it gold!”
A sheepish smile, “it is the official team hat with next day UPS shipping included. No tax.” I add as an aside.
Dad can only say, did you get your homework done?”
“It is on your desk.” I quickly answer adding, “what about my grounding is it over yet?”
My thought is ‘I bet they thought that was a drug deal.’
A resolute voice from mother replies, “that is what we wanted to talk about. I will let your father explain.”
Mr. Ryan takes a long draught from his cup firmly setting it down on the table before beginning to illustrate his ideas. “Sarah your grounding is over. You have done very well since the hot dog incident.”
“Great” I interrupt, “so I can go out.”
“Not exactly young lady there are some new rules. We decided not to establish a curfew.”
I frown while mother adopts her deer in the head lights expression.
“No curfew are you serious?” I eep out with astonished eyes. ‘This cannot be true,’ I think.
Dad interjects, “this what we are going to do. There will be no going out on school nights.”
“What!” I find myself yelling.
“Except when you have a specific event or need. If it is school related or going to the library, whatever, we bring you to and then back home. There will be no dating. On the weekends you can stay out until ten on Friday and Saturday and 8 on Sunday. Again specific places with supervision verified by either your mother or me. There is no acceptable reason you or any girl to be wandering about town during the school nights. And no dating”
The bombshell dropped. I know outrage is required so I argued “I am almost eighteen.”
Dad responds, “when you are eighteen we will discuss change. That is not until summer. These are the rules dictated by past behavior. I agree you have been very good but you know trust is hard to win back.”
I sit back considering this with mixed feelings. The teenager in my Sarah persona is outraged. Seventy year old Bob saying, good plan.
“Can I go now?” I asked presenting an unreadable expression.
Both parents nod and I walk upstairs. Halfway up the stairs I hear dad say, “She spent twenty bucks for a baseball cap?” This is followed by a giggle from mother.
Martin Ryan sips his coffee considering the just ended exchange as he watches Gretchen cook the dinner hamburgers. “What do you think Gretchen? I admit the girl has me confused I expected a blow up but none came.”
Gretchen turns, hands on her hips tossing her head from side to side. Her eyes grow wide in a mused expression, betraying her confusion. “I, don’t know it is almost like the quiet before the storm. Part of me thinks all our hard work is finally showing fruit. The other part of me says this girl is not Sarah.”
Martin moves closer to his wife nodding. “I know you should have seen her on the mountain she was full of energy. She loved every minute of it. No matter how good you are you can’t fake that. Why don’t you call your mother and ask her what she thinks happened?”
Gretchen places the burgers on the table as there is a knock on the door. “Will you get that Martin? I did talk to mother I will tell you her thoughts when you come back.”
Martin returns with a small package for Sarah dropping it at her usual place on the table. “It looks like her hat is here it says Ben’s Sporting goods. So what did your mother say?”
Gretchen rushes her answer as she can hear Sarah exiting her room. The girl could always smell food, especially if it was burgers with golden brown fries. “Mom said, don’t worry whatever happened to Sarah it was for the better. Just keep a tight reign she has already told us she needs one.”
I sat on my bed legs crossed ignoring my PDA. I did not want to talk with Mr. Voice. The confrontation in the kitchen got me to thinking. There was no way mom and dad could enforce their draconian rules. At my age I could walk and they could not stop me. The real Sarah knew that as did I. What those rules achieve makes my job easier. Yes old Bob will go along with it dragging Sarah along kicking and screaming. I have to find a way to present a reasonable resistance.
I heard the delivery guy so I bounced downstairs. When I arrived in the kitchen I quickly noticed the package opening it at once. There is a note inside the hat printed on an index card. It says, dear Ms. Ryan this is the collectors series personally autographed by one of the Pirates on the inside head band. The signature is coated with a clear poly enamel to protect it from body oils. As you did not specify we sent the Willie Stargell personally signed model.
My eyes open wide as I exclaim, “it is signed by Pops!”
Mother frowns while father examines the hat with a smile. He says, “that explains the price.” I quietly eat my dinner wearing the black cap with the gold P.
At the end of the meal I clear the table singing softly, “we both know I’ve got somewhere else to go.” Still singing I rinse placing plates in the dishwasher. “Not enough to run the machine, tomorrow maybe?” Then I rush out of the kitchen to answer the ringing phone.
Martin looks at Gretchen “what was that all about?”
Gretchen shrugs, “she did that yesterday too.”
Martin shakes his head, “no I meant the singing did you hear her singing voice?”
Gretchen smiles, “she did that yesterday as well she sounds amazing.”
The woman pours another cup of coffee sitting down next to her husband. “What is going on?”
Martin shrugs, “I, don’t know but your mother has seen it too. She says don’t worry. I often wondered about that woman.”
Gretchen replies, “don’t go there.”
While holding the phone I walk into the kitchen, “mom can I ask Claire to come over Friday after school? We can hang out and have pizza for dinner.”
Gretchen looks up, “who is Claire?”
“A friend from school, Claire Wilson, she does not live too far from here.”
Martin looks to his wife who nods her assent.
Gretchen takes the phone. “Let me talk to Mrs. Wilson.”
The two women talk for a few minutes making arrangements agreeing to have Claire ride home with Sarah and Mrs. Wilson will pick her daughter up at ten pm.
I walk back into the living room with the phone because some parts of this conversation are private.
I said to Claire “your mom is just like mine.”
“No shit” answers Claire, “they have to know everything all the time. I am glad you are in the same boat, misery likes company.”
While laughing I ask, “Point out that Cowles kid to me tomorrow will you?”
Claire agrees laughing “the blonde is on the prowl huh?”
Gritting my teeth in a defensive posture I minimize. “Only my curiosity I have not seen a pocket protector in years that’s all. They, won’t even let me date for God sake. Seventeen and I can't date, how provincial.”
Claire with a smiling voice, “me too, two virgin ice princesses locked in the tower. Like I said at least I have company. We could rebel though.”
Sarah laughs, “tried that and I wound up at preppy tech with the promise the next stop was the convent.”
Claire ends with a laugh saying, “later.” I say goodnight in my cryptic girl code, “later” and hang up.
Out of boredom I turn on the TV to channel surf stopping momentarily at a news channel to hear the guy say, “SaraLee has announced a two for one stock split. Excitement erupts with a loud “Cool!”
Mom and dad run into the room “what was that all about?” mom asks.
Dad smiles “since when did you start caring about stock splits?”
I, shrug “since I assimilated I, guess.” Both parents standing there with puzzled expressions as I ascend the stairs mumbling, “resistance is futile.”
I fire up my PDA with the intention of listening to the ball game when I am interrupted by the Voice. “It is about time where have you been?”
After a blink, I repeat his words. “Huh where have I been! I have been busting my hump on your project. School, grams, making friends and placating my parents. I thought in my spare time I’d run for the Senate.” There is a long pause before any response is heard.
“Don’t you think you might be over playing your hand?”
Incredulously, I respond “what? My goal is to be reunited with Megan. To do that, I have to straighten out this girl’s life. In case you had not noticed she is alive today because of me. Do you get it, it is because of my actions. You don’t tell me the rules of this game you let me spin around groping in the dark. What is your problem?”
The Voice comes back with “settle down. I just think you need to create some conflict you are making this too easy for them. Sneak out raise some cane.”
This caused me to raise my ire. “If you had not noticed, dad removed the trellis. You think I am dealing with pushovers here? Grams is a witch she can hear me just like you. Hey Jack if this is so easy how come your team screwed it up?” My slow burn is simmering when the Voice came back yet again.
“You are taking this all wrong. I just thought you were not causing enough doubt in their minds.”
I bite my sore lip again. 'I have to stop doing that.' “what do you want? You want me to go out and cause some trouble? Why do I get the feeling you are setting me up?”
I am about to break the connection when the Voice says. “ok, ok you do it your way.”
“I will ask you again what is it you want regarding a result?”
The voice murmurs a bit not answering. Determined I again push, “look you may have a seventeen year old girl here in body. You are dealing with a PHD who has been around the block a few times. What do you expect? What result do you require for you to do as promised? Remember what you said? Megs and I to be reunited in young adult bodies and be together. Or did you forget that?”
The voice finally answers, “get the girl thorough high school and repair the relationship with her parents.”
I as Sarah consider this, “and the real Sarah what about her?”
The voice hesitates “um she will get her body back if she carries out her duties.”
I emit a doubtful expression, “ok Voice I’m doing my part.” Then break the connection.
With the ball game playing in the back ground I sat on my bed legs crossed and dangling. My thoughts are troubled more so than any time since I encountered this oddball situation. ‘I have this nagging feeling I am being set up. This guy actually tried to get me to what set fire to the A&P? Or knock off the bank, perhaps buy some joints or get laid in city park?’ The problem with this situation is that Bob or Sarah, whoever, the hell, I am is beginning to suffer from the Stockholm syndrome. I stare blankly at the mint green pastel bed room wall evaluating my situation. ‘Not too long ago I was a happy old man troubled by my wife’s health.
Not once did I ever day dream about being female or what it would be like. Never ever gazed at a male with any sexual desire. The very idea of that would make my skin crawl.’ Bob grins looking down at his legs marveling on how desirable they looked. He laughed ‘and I never tried on my sister’s clothes. Here I am downloaded into a young girl. Even worse she is drop dead gorgeous. If that is not bad enough I have discovered what an experience a period is. What is even worse I understand what prey I have become just walking through school wearing a skirt.’ The ballgame was winding down when I shut it off satisfied my side won. ‘Worse yet I honestly like Sarah, perhaps more than she did herself. To a certain extent I envy her. Her dad is cool and mom is a tiger who would die for me.’
I walk over to the mirror gazes into it, smile and think, ‘die for me did I say that?’ The room fills with a sound, “maybe I hang around here a little more than I should.” It sounded more like Olivia than Sarah. As I drifted off to sleep my last thought was ‘I have to protect this girl.’
Bob and Megan, a married couple in their final years retired for the night. Just before drifting off to sleep Bob made an off hand comment to which Megan agreed with a slight twist. They did not know something was listening and granted their wish. How will this challenge work out when they hardly know the rules of the game?
Sept 20, 2011
Newly edited through the unforgiving seventh grade English teacher. There are a few minor changes but nothing to alter the story. You will notice a change from first person narrative to third person in some scenes. This is intentional. The primary focus is from Bob/Sarah's point of view. I shifted to third person when Bob/Sarah was not involved in the scene and for areas where scene setting is involved. With that in mind it should lessen any confusion. I trust this helps convince you there is a method for the writers madness and it is not a lack of skill. This decision may be a failure but I did it on purpose.
Rights reserved by the author with permission to host granted exclusively to Big Closet.
One week before Labor Day two days prior to Bob waking as Sarah a similar event was unfolding not too far away. Hal Cowles lay in a coma in the regional community hospital hooked up to life support machines. Mr. and Mrs. Cowles sat in the living room of their Victorian home a mile outside of town discussing the decision they are wishing they did not have to make. The doctors had advised there was nothing more that could be done. The chemicals inhaled had done severe damage and there appeared to be no brain activity. There had been an accident with a chemical truck that caused a spill on interstate 87. Hal was driving home when his car became bathed by the spraying chemicals from an overturned truck. He simply drove around it barely noticing the emergency vehicles present. By the time he reached his exit he had grown dizzy pulled to the side of the road and passed out. Mrs. Cowles in a tearful voice pleaded with her husband to give it more time. He, being a realist had determined that tomorrow they pull the plug letting him go. The plea that Hal had only been asleep for two days did not seem to sway. If one were to accept the medical data and the flat line on the monitor, one would be accepting the literal truth.
There was a steady red line at the bottom of the monitor providing a morbid signal that did not bode well. Dr. Seaman half closed her eyes recognizing the stark realty closed the door and walked to the Doctor’s lounge. She spoke in hushed tones to Dr. Randle who agreed to the only real choice remaining to them.
“Did you speak with the Parents Rene?” Asked Dr. Randle.
“Yes, they agreed to terminate life support in the morning. They should be here around ten. The puzzling issue is there are no outward signs of trauma. No physical damage to the exterior and the test show the chemical cocktail went right to the brain.”
Dr. Seaman’s measured response had illustrated her frustration, as she spoke with her colleague. She continued by saying “what is odd is the levels of the most recent blood test reveal almost no trace.” She pauses, “as if they were never there.”
Dr. Randle nodded considering, “and the response by CDC was even stranger. They sent some military type who at once wanted all our test results. We still have no answers.”
Dr. Seaman agrees. “It is good they did not ask if I made back ups to the files. I’d hate to have to lie to them,” she giggled. "It sounds to me like this is some kind of weapon. Well, I am going home to catch some zzz’s”.
Randle agreed. “The staff will alert us if anything changes. I hate this part of the job. I will leave instructions for another blood test on my way out. I am curious and expect the levels to drop even more.”
In the private room the silence was broken by a frequent steady low beeping as the line never wavering traced along the bottom of the monitor. A nurse entered not worrying about being quiet, after all it is not like she is going to wake the patient. She draws a vile of blood not noticing a slight rise in the monitor line. To be fair to the nurse after all it is barely perceptible. She is focused solely on her two days off after completing this task. There was no brain activity in Hal’s body as the Voice quietly downloaded the essence of Megan into the host. He knew that awareness was but moments away and could not use the PDA to communicate with Megan. He had no need to use electronic devices in this state he could speak with her directly.
Megan stirred slowly as her dream recalled the wise ass quip to Bob just before drifting off to sleep. “Yes if that is what it takes.” Bob had said. She smiled thinking of Bob in a maternity dress groaning about various aches and pains. She chuckled in her dream recalling how much she loved the man. The one who shared the last fifty years with her. She thought ‘he really does love me.’ The darkness of her dream suddenly lightened and she saw a meadow with a quiet stream, a picnic basket and a young girl, a late teen perhaps. The girl spoke lovingly as she held out her hand showing an engagement ring. “Yes Hal, I will marry you.” Then a voice entered her head whispering “Megan, Megan.” She answers cautiously, “yes?”
“The Boss heard your conversation with Bob and decided to grant you a gift.” The voice says to her.
Megan more alert, “a gift, what gift?”
The voice carefully says “a new life for you and Bob where you can begin anew. One filled with love and happiness but you must do something first.” Megan doubtful with a bit of suspicion listened ever more convinced this was a dream. But unlike other restless nights she did not feel any pain, not even the slightest discomfort. The voice went on to explain Megan was downloaded into the body of seventeen year old Hal Cowles. He told her the same story he will relate to Bob two days from now. Once they complete their tasks they will be downloaded into new youthful bodies of their choice and be together. He stressed they will not be allowed to reveal to each other who they are. They will be allowed once a month contact using the PDA she will find under her pillow when she arrives home.
Megan lay there absorbing this information as the soft voice reveals this tale to her. She is doubtful as she questions. "You say Bob is a girl and that I am this Hal fellow, a guy! What is the purpose of that what have I got to do and is this a joke?” She takes a deep breath expecting to wake up any moment. ‘Wait until I tell Bob about this dream. We will both have a laugh over it.’ she thinks.
The voice tells her that she has to do almost nothing other than take Hal’s place and wait until her husband completes his task. “It could take to the end of the school year” the voice instructs her. He also warns that she must keep Hal on the straight and narrow.
Megan, not convinced questions, “why not just leave me where I am if all I have to do is wait?”
The Voice tells her, “with Bob vacating his body he will have died in your time. You would be very distraught being home by yourself in even greater pain. In this way you get to share the adventure.”
Still unconvinced Megan listens. “You are soul mates, you and Bob. Soul mates find each other. You will be reunited” the Voice assures her. “Rest, we will speak later.”
Megan drifts off to sleep leaving the meadow, leaving the dream. She is silent resting comfortably in her darkness.
The voice like all low level bureaucrats hated those days he was required to file in person reports in the Supervisor’s office. The voice is of course a code name issued by the committee because as with all bureaucratic organizations they cringe at all forms of individualism. The voice’s name was actually Brent.
He earned his way into the higher plane of existence achieved by those who finally got a life correct. For many they are required to go back and do it over again or as with some who are defective banished to the underworld. Brent had his foot in the door of this higher plain. But still had to work his way into the land of milk and honey. Here he was explaining to his boss progress and actions he had taken in case number G48567. The Voice was in charge of special projects that the Boss believed were vital to the world below. The voice knew from experience these meetings could get quite hostile.
The supervisor speaks first. “How do you see case number G48567 advancing, are we achieving our goals?” The voice leans forward to answer as his supervisor shuffles papers from a manila folder. “Sir,” he began, “Sarah is advancing making good progress but her player, may I use the term player, is rather resistant to suggestion.” The supervisor pushes a form sheet forward, “as I understand it you downloaded Robert Owens and his wife Megan Owens into the hosts for the specific purpose of advancing the project. Why did you make the choice you made?” The Voice blinks at the question thinking it was rather easy. “Well sir as you are aware both Mr. and Mrs. Owens had achieved a high enough status to gain entry into this higher plane. It is clear based on their behavior this was their final go round. It was obvious they are quite capable to right this situation.”
The Supervisor took a deep breath emitting a frown. “The Boss is unhappy about your actions upon initiation of this plan. Do you care to expand on why you reversed them downloading Bob into Sarah and Megan into Hal?” He leans back waiting to hear the rational. The Voice suddenly appeared uncomfortable. “It was to add to the challenge. You are giving these two an opportunity not often afforded to people. Subjects are almost never given a free ride life. They will be given a fairly easy life as reward for doing us a service. A little extra challenge just adds to the game.” The Supervisor leans back into his chair rubbing his chin then exhales a slow exaggerated breath. “As I understand it you promised Mr. and Mrs. Owens upon success they would be given the bodies of their choice and placed where they wished to be.” The Voice nods his assent. “Did you study the principles of downloads and the inherent dangers?” The supervisor waits to discern the answer. It took awhile as the Voice hesitated perhaps realizing for the first time something he overlooked. “Uh sir it is just a theory and well uh I doubt it will be a problem.” The Supervisor stands shouting “You doubt! Fool” Without waiting for a response the Supervisor throws a blue folder at the voice then sits back down. “Page five read what I underlined.”
Sweating, the Voice thumbs to the page stammering, “underlined? Uh it says about downloads there is an issue with second and third downloads causing damage to the person downloaded and possibly harm the host. Fifty percent of all second downloads fail and nearly all third downloads fail.” His eyes grow wide, “but it is not proven.” The Supervisor looks shocked, “not proven! He wrote it. He is never wrong! He created the universe and you think it is not proven.” The Voice suddenly shakes and his eyes appear to open wide as his action becomes obvious to him. The supervisor says “we should review what we know. You download them into the host bodies consider that download number one which is harmless to humans and the host.
You promise them a second download which contains risk making it problematic. You know full well they should have been informed a second download presents grave risk. The intent was to give them the option to remain as they are if the host personalities could not be retrained. We both know the original Sarah has problems. Because you added a challenge to people who never gave a hint of preferring to be of the other sex the choice of remaining as is presents multiple problems. The Boss does not repay faithful service by placing people into potentially psychological threatening circumstances. Now you place the agency in a precarious situation. Because you promised a second download, the Boss must honor it. If the second download fails, they will be destroyed. If their host perishes as well, the whole project is a failure.” Listening to this the Voice becomes quite concerned. Not about his action but what the boss will do to him.
Not quite done the Supervisor continues. “New arrivals have to earn their way to the grand reward before going to the paradise area. Because of your action, they go directly to Paradise and the Boss will not like it. This is one way that Mr. and Mrs. Owens can earn their way directly to Paradise. What about the original Sarah and Hal, What do we do with them? If their bodies are destroyed, with a second download we have no place for them and the whole plan blows up. Wasn’t it the point to have the original Sarah and Hal continue because of the contribution to the world their grand children make? Then we would award the faithful who rescued this situation. That was the whole point and you wanted to add a challenge! You were to tell Bob and Megan there were risk. We could likely move them again but to reverse their sex twice causes additional danger.”
The Voice stands, “will that be all Sir?” “Sit” barks the Supervisor. “You better help the girl navigate through this. No games, she is essential. As for Hal his task is easier but still extremely important. The fates decided these two were destined to be together and when the snafu occurred the plan fell apart. We were fortunate to have two soul mates who could take their place. Until you tinkered with it, that is. If the original bodies are vaporized because of your promise of an extra sexual change just how do we replace those two bodies? Do you think replacements suddenly appearing after everybody knows they died will go unnoticed? I know some parents may not notice their kids dying but these parents will. These parents were classified as A3’s. Think about the problem you caused.”
“Sir they will insist on new bodies they were promised. What about the real Sarah and Hal, how were you going to bring them back?” The nervous voice asks. The supervisor shakes his head “the rules of downloads do not apply when you return an essence to its original body. The danger is to the replacements. That is why Bob was supposed to take over for Hal and Megan for Sarah. It avoided an unnecessary shift of sex that requires an extra download and there was nothing in there about sex changes. You missed that on your assignment instructions.”
The Voice says sheepishly “but their conversation before going to sleep was she did not want to have kids and Bob said he would do that for her. So I thought this would be a good twist.” The supervisor glances to the ceiling, “OH! may the Boss help us.”
A loud voice, sounding like James Earl Jones replies from above. “What is it what do you need?”
“Nothing, it’s ok your reverence,” the supervisor replies while glaring at the Voice. “Voice?” he asks, “have you ever been married, in any of your lives?” “Uh yes,” answers the Voice. “Then you should know when a tired wife in pain says she loves you and would be thrilled to live another lifetime with you but you have the kids. Any husband will agree to that because he knows the trouble he will be in if he says Hell No!” James Earl Jones is suddenly heard. “I, don’t allow that kind of talk.” Both men suddenly tremble.
“Now then Voice you convince our new Sarah, she likes being Sarah and wants to stay that way. Remember it is a long ride down to the Underworld. Oh and don’t you dare frame it in terms like, Bob you really want to be a girl don’t you? You really like skirts now that you tried them don’t you? Leave my office and pray you did not cause irreparable damage. You could be sent out for this.” The Voice stands to leave with his supervisor screaming, “Out!”
After the voice exits, clearly shaken the Boss appears in the Supervisor’s office. “That did not go well. I take it things are dissolving?”
The supervisor clears his throat not that there is any sickness here. It was nothing more than a learned reflex. “Well Sir as you know the real Sarah was sent to this level. The intention was to reeducate. Hopefully send her back when your agent straightened things out. The girl was impossible she created all kinds of problems and unfortunately was bound.”
“Bound” the Boss repeats what he heard.
The Supervisor points to a statue of a girl in the corner. She appears pensive with her head bowed while contemplating flowers that adorn her naked feet. “That’s she” said the Supervisor, “she is shut down completely, waiting your decision. We had hoped she could be sent back when Mr. Owens cleans things up. But her attitude is beyond repair. I am sorry to say it looks like the Underworld. We will be sending her soon.”
The Boss shakes his head, “that is rather harsh isn’t it. She is a child after all. You are aware the vampires and warlocks are in a full blown war down there? This kid has no idea what being a Goth is all about. I should have blown up Hollywood years ago. They will eat her up if we banish her.”
The Supervisor shakes his head. “we, can’t send her back to Earth. Her parents were A3’s weren’t they?”
The Boss nods his agreement “yes of the highest level.”
The Supervisor questions the Boss. “If A3’s can’t control her who on Earth can?”
The Boss considers before suggesting “you are right but we still must work to correct this problem. Bob/Sarah was elevated to A3 status and we owe her/him. I don’t ever double cross my children. Let me think about that for a minute.” As he stares out the window hands clasped behind his back the Boss ask, “what about the original Hal?”
The Supervisor reported “Hal is presently working for the bureau. He, of course is assigned elsewhere.
The reason he is here is because his body is on life support. We expected to send him back once the issue is resolved. But now that the Voice mishandled this I just don’t know.”
The Boss’s anger appears to rise when he calms himself he plans aloud. “Did you tell the original Hal any of this? He is an A2 you know that.”
The Supervisor explains, “no he thinks he simply died.” “Ok,” the Boss begins. Here is what I want you do. I maintain my belief or hope,” he, stutters. “That the originals can be returned and the Owens can be given their promised reward. I have my doubts. We may have to go to the back up plan.”
The Supervisor blinks, “backup plan?” “
Of course,” states the Boss. “I always have a backup plan. “It requires changing the Fate book. Who was that black haired teenage girl Hal’s age that we mistook for his soul mate?”
The Supervisor thinks a moment. “Katy Winslow, she is an A2 as well. She lives in a trailer park in Appalachia.”
The Boss shakes his head, “an A2 in a trailer park. How did that happen?”
“It was a snafu.” They both respond, “the Voice again?”
“I am getting pretty frustrated with this Voice fellow, how about a downgrade to Q Minus?”
The Supervisor’s eyes widen, “that is harsh.’
The Boss asks “again tell me where our replacements are in this?”
He receives his answer. “Our replacements appear to be doing excellent. I believe they will be successful.
We created another problem. What happens when they learn the truth?
The Boss nods ever calm answers. “I have faith it will all work out. We will review the Voice when this is done. I want you to bring Hal in and give him a full explanation. You then unite him with Katy back on Earth. Give both and upgrade to A3. If we cannot work this mess out, I will adjust the fates. The procreation line shift to Hal and Katy. I want you to unbound Sarah over there” he points to the statue. “You did not do a full binding wiping Sarah’s identity?
The Supervisor shakes his head, “on no sir only you are allowed to do that.”
The Boss smiles, “Very good contact El’Gronde on Vulcan have him straighten out the girl. If he fails, then we need something even more drastic.”
The Supervisor quips, “Vulcan is strict very conservative and controlling. And the constant playing of Ravel‘s Bolero is annoying. I, can‘t spend much time on that planet.”
The Boss smiles, “I believe our Goth over there will love those elfin ears though she may not like the music.” In a puff he vanishes.
The supervisor breathes a sigh of relief, “good thing the Boss has faith. It would not do to have him doubt himself.”
The Boss stands alone looking out over his universe expanding endlessly across space. He thinks, ‘mistakes, free will I should never have done that. The cause of all kinds of problem and Earth is the worst. At least the Vulcans respect order.’ The most controversial order was when the Boss designed the ranking system with A3 being the highest. Up to that point people upon termination either were welcomed into the Boss’s realm or banished into the Underworld. Due to the amount of citizens and the possibility of crowding, the Boss needed to set limits. He determined to reward people for their lifetime behavior creating a scale. Failure to reach the top two levels they were sent back to live another life until they got it right. Upon a person’s demise the agency would review then explain what rating a person had and send them back if they were below A2. A2’s were allowed to work for the Agency earning their way into Paradise. The A3’s went directly to the promised land. In some cases the Boss was forced to use Binding to wipe the slate clean. A radical washing of all memories forced a new start. After all this time, he was still ever hopeful of redemption. There were those who were considered not redeemable and banished to the Underworld. It was also established that citizens in Paradise were given some conflict because experience proved that without conflict and challenges his people grew bored. Especially after thousands of years without challenges. Some even petitioned to be sent back to Human life. It is issues like this current one that cost the Boss restless nights. He was frustrated with the Voice and considered what he should do about his trainee.
At nine AM Dr Seaman studied the latest test results from Hal Cowles’ blood sample. She starred uncertain as to how she should regard this. Speaking with Dr. Randle by phone she relayed the data Randle was equally shocked. “What do you mean there is no trace of chemicals and all levels are normal that is impossible?”
In a resolute voice he commanded, “run the test again and call me with the new results. When does the family arrive?”
She answered, “in about an hour.” “I will try to stall them by going over what we know to allow time for the results to come. But Dr. Randle I’m not going to give them false hope. It does not change the boy’s condition. It just raises a lot of questions.” She hangs up and goes to the nurses station to write the order.
The monitor continued the slow rhythmic beeping as Hal Cowles began to stir from his deep sleep. His mind reeled from his strange journey into a world of darkness. He could remember the Voice and the last words Bob had said to her, “dear if that is what it would take to spend another lifetime with you, sure no problem.”
Hal shook his head but there was no one in the room to see but he could hear the Voice. His thoughts grew confused, “Hal?” The question appeared to come from inside his head. “I am Meg where is Bob?” he answered. ‘This silly dream refuses to end,’ Meg tried to speak but nothing would come out as she heard the Voice. “Do you remember what we talked about?" The voice knew that a frightened Megan would cause problems if she gained consciousness in that state. He had to be certain she understood before presenting to the world she was about to join.
Megan slowed her accelerated rate. The beeping began to fade. “What is that noise?” Megan asked.
The Voice assured her. “It is just the monitors. The doctors will be in soon. Is Hal ready to face this world? Soon you will have contact with your Bob.”
Megan’s breathing steadied as she murmured her assent. The only choice she had was to play along so she could wake up from this dream. The woman did not believe a word of this hallucination. “Yes, she answers I am Hal Cowles just waking up from a coma. I have to pretend to be Hal until Bob completes his task. Why did you not give me any of Hal’s memories? They will think I am daft if I, don’t know anything about myself.”
The Voice sighs, just like her husband always asking questions. “It is part of the test. You will be given the information as you need it. Don’t forget to find the PDA under your pillow at home. We can talk further there. Oh, and one other thing, this is 1979 PDAs have not been invented yet so keep it out of sight.” The voice fades.
Hal considers, ’1979 I can’t wait to wake up from this dream. The further it goes the nuttier it gets.’ Just then the door opens followed by a nurse carrying a tray stepping inside. She closes the door and smiles. Hal watches thinking, ’she is cute. Wait a minute did I just say that? That is so wrong. Bob where are you?’
“You are awake,” a chirpy voice says to Hal. “I need to take a blood sample, some test I think.” The nurse looks at the chart, “Hal Cowles, and how are we today?”
Hal blinks, trying to get his bearings. “Fine,’ his eyes roll noting all the various things plugged into him and the monitor machine. “I just came in for an oil change nothing unusual. How long have I been here and where is the doctor?”
The nurse smiles then emit’s a blank expression. “Today is my first day, the chart indicates a couple days. This is the third to be exact.” After drawing the blood she winks whispering, “I am not supposed to tell you anything. Dr. Seaman is waiting to talk to your parents. After she reviews the test results, she will be in.” The nurse turns toward the door. Hal studies her backside as she leaves. He feels an unusual rise of something in his mid section.
Slowly with his free hand, the other being strapped down to a board with IV’s attached, his fingers regard the shocking object. Hal bolts upright eyes opening to their widest. “Holy shit!” He wonders if anyone heard that exclamation through the heavy door. To his consternation his fingers do not lessen their exploration. Feeling a bit warm Hal thinks. ‘So this is what Bob senses.’ Hal pulls his hand away lays back focusing upon the tile ceiling and he begins to count those 12 x 12 squares while considering further exploration.
Dr. Seaman waits in her office for the test results which for some reason appear to be taking an unusual amount of time. She looks at the round clock on the far wall, ‘10:05. ‘I suppose the parents and the lawyers are in the conference room already.’ She calls the lab to learn of an equipment failure placing everything on hold. “Send the results to the conference room stat!.” She then phones the nurses station inquiring if the Cowles have arrived. “Send them to the conference room the lawyers are waiting.” She hangs up feeling the pangs of regret knowing what the next hour will be like. CYA paper work to be signed, disclaimers and forced statements of sympathy from the lawyers and the zoned out expressions on the faces of distraught parents. Of course, a chaplain is present to mollify with platitudes. She enters the conference room with her rote polite greetings hating every minute of it as she gazes at the row of stern faces around the long table.
Bonnie and Dave Cowles slowly walked down the long sterile hall way toward the nurses station. It was a slow steady measured walk much like you would see in those prison movies. To them it was the same the execution of their son. Neither wanted to reach their destination. Mr. Cowles, a southern businessman who was transferred to this northern outpost by his company was filled with regrets. ‘If I only said no, we would not be here. Hal would not have been driving that road.’ He could not complete his regrets as nurse Debbie, the chirpy one intercepted the grieving parents. “Before you see your son, Doctor Seaman wants to meet with you in the conference room. The second door on the left I will bring you.” The parents turned silently to follow. Mrs. Cowles mouths a thank you. Her throat is dry and she did not wish for conversation.
Before they entered chirpy Debbie suddenly said, “I bet you are proud to have a son with a great sense of humor.” Both parents stopped walking starring at the nurse. Mrs. Cowles fights an inner rage wanting to begin with the B word but controlled herself. “What do you mean sense of humor?” She forces in a low dry voice. Chirpy Debbie beams as she says. “Hal isn’t it?” The parents nod. “He said the funniest thing to me a half hour ago. Told me, he just came in for an oil change.” “He spoke to you!” Mrs. Cowles exclaims. Nodding furiously chirpy Debbie “Yes, he sure did asked a lot of questions. “You did not tell the Doctor?” inquired Mr. Cowles. “Why?” asked the nurse “no one said anything about reporting to the doctor if he said anything.”
Not listening not caring what the nurse is saying both parents break out into a run toward Hal’s room. Chirpy Debbie’s voice is lost from behind, “but the conference room you have to see the doctor first.” Hal’s door flew open, Bonnie and Dave in shock frozen. Hal was sitting up in bed reading a magazine, Adirondack something or other. Hal glances from the magazine “Hi woke up awhile ago this place is boring.” Suddenly the monitor is beeping loudly as hugs and tears fill the room.
Two weeks later Hal Cowles sits in the school cafeteria eating lost in thought. Mike Davis across from him is chatting away about girls as he is prone to do. Hal does not hear a word his new friend is saying. He is reviewing all the information the voice imparted. How he is supposed to keep Hal out of trouble and remain as indiscrete as possible? Keep your nose clean, he was told. ‘Right Hal thought, keep my nose clean. That sounds like something my grandfather would have said.’ Talking or texting with Bob, two weeks ago. Hal thought he was clever passing along his general location by describing he could see the NO on Giant Mountain. Through the fifty years with Bob, she knew him like the back of her hand. Bob loved the mountains, the Pirates and was intelligent.
Hal thought, ‘I dropped some clues did he pick up on them? The voice is not clever’ Hal mused. ‘I know there are only three new seniors other than me. Only two, of them are girls. Erin and Sarah are both babes.’ Hal shrugs, ‘but there is no guarantee she is a senior.’ He glances over to the table where Sarah and Claire are sitting. Again he feels a stirring, ‘Bob, I am beginning to understand. I promise to cut you some slack when we become our new selves. You really can’t control this thing can you?’
A few days later Claire and Sarah are sitting at their usual lunch table at school. Claire had pointed out Hal sitting next to Mike Fenton mentioning Hal did not have a pocket protector. After laughing about that the girls listened intently to the boy’s conversation. Sarah whispered “they are talking about us.” Claire poked her friend “they are talking about you.”
Mike waves his hand in front of Hal’s face, “Earth to Cowles.”
“What!” returns a now alert Hal.
Mike points to the offending table. “You have been drooling for two weeks go talk to her.”
Hal blinks, “talk to who?”
Mike hits Hal’s elbow, the one holding the boy’s head up nearly causing him to pitch over. The girls notice and giggle. “Ryan you fool, Wilson is already claimed and her boy friend will beat you to a pulp. Didn’t she join the Outing Club?”
“I heard she had. There is a hike this week end,” Hal answers.
“That is your opening, start walking fool.” Mike pulls on Hal’s arm.
At the next table Sarah is thinking 'Claire and I are talking of course the topic is boys.'
Claire speaks softly, half teasing, half serious. “Sarah you have to get out of this funk. That guy is literally drooling.”
I glance up accidentally making eye contact with Hal quickly averting my gaze. In an instant I knew. ‘Meg!’ I wanted to shout. I almost burst out, but caught myself. Turning to Claire, I ask her, “that is the geek? He is no geek.”
Claire grins as she sees Hal approach the table. I stare into my lunch not looking up as my heart pounds. ‘I can feel it, keep cool, does he know? What is he going to say?’ To get an answer I am going to have to look up. I cannot hide under my plate.
“Hi”, a soft steady voice emits. “Hi”, replies Claire as Hal sits down. I tilt my head regarding Hal and mouth a silent hello.
Hal looks directly at Sarah. ‘I think I found her, go slow’. He engages Claire first. “You two ladies sit at this table every day.” ‘Clumsy’, he thinks. ‘This is not easy I sounded like an idiot. Get under control.’
Claire smiles, “Of course it is a ritual. The hot girls over there, the jocks very close to the hot girls, the geeks,” she catches herself. Turning suddenly she points in a direction away from Mike. “Over there,” she adds.
Hal laughs, “you have figured out the seating assignments. Aren’t they voluntary though don’t you have a choice?”
Claire shakes her head, “no it is predetermined you sit where you are supposed to. Free will is a myth.”
I laugh directing my statement toward Hal. “See what I have to put with day after day?”
Hal nods, Claire feigns outrage.
Meanwhile The Boss calls the supervisor into his office. The Supervisor sits cautiously expecting another dressing down. His eyes dart about the room nervously. The Boss turns on a monitor to view the scene at the lunch table. Without saying anything the Supervisor looks with astonishment. The Boss smiles “I told you. It took them how long to find each other?” The Supervisor blinks.
The Boss draws a breath. “It is only September nine months to go nine full months and they found each other. I thought Voice was not supposed to reveal enough information so they would remain apart.”
The Supervisor shakes his head “I instructed him. He apparently messed this up too. Should we bring Hal and Sarah up here and bind them?”
The Boss sits back “Voice did not do this. They are smarter than him. They figured it out that’s all.”
The supervisor relaxes “what do you want me to do?”
The Boss answers, “nothing for now let’s see where it goes. You can’t keep soul mates apart. The stronger ones always find a way.” The Boss laughs, “don’t let Voice know. See how long it takes for him to figure it out. Oh and don’t let him muck it up.”
The Supervisor gulps, “you don’t care if they get together?”
The Boss shakes his head. “It was the plan to reunite them. I over estimated how long it would take that’s all. They still have a program to complete. Sarah is still working toward completing it and Hal is doing as instructed. If they think they are putting one over on us, they will work harder to complete it. Hormones are one of my better innovations.”
Paul Miller sits forcing himself into a chair between Hal and Claire. “Hal isn’t it,” Paul asks as he leans to kiss Claire’s cheek to stake his claim. Claire leans into the kiss eyes flashing.
I avert my gaze sneaking a peek toward Hal.
Hal observes this male ritual of marking his territory thinking ‘this is amazing' as it unfolds. Miller here wants me to know with Claire it is hands off. When I was Meg I’d blush acting the girls part and feeling so important.’ Hal glances at Sarah while continuing his thought, ‘there she is feeling uncomfortable waiting for me to react. I have to think just the opposite to my life time learning’. Hal looks to Sarah with a bit more confidence. “Sarah then we have a date for Saturday?”
Paul suddenly turns his gaze reveals a bit of jealousy. He had actually been thinking this new girl may be better for him than Claire.
My eyes flash as I am startled by his question. ‘Did Hal just ask me out on a date?‘ I hesitate reacting in a cool manner. ‘I have to word this just right.‘ “I guess though as you know” I knew he did not know but Meg is quick she will pick up on it.’ “My parents don’t allow me to date. That’s why I joined the outing club for,” I hesitate for effect, “cover.”
Hal laughs, “so I thought. I will call you later.”
I nod as Hal walks back to Mike’s table.
The three who remain stand as the bell rings signaling the next class. Hal and Mike walk down the hall, “how did you do?” asks Mike. Hal grins, “I got a date.” Mike smiles, “good move.”
After doing my home work while mother fixed dinner, I called Grams. “Grams can we talk?”
Grams answered quizzically, “anytime dear anytime you want.”
“Not on the phone, can I come over Sunday?”
Grams quickly agreed. “Of course, you can my favorite grand daughter is always welcome.”
“Grams I am your only grand daughter,” I point out. “I have a lot of questions.”
“I know you do dear. I will see you on Sunday.”
I rushed into the kitchen where mother was working. “Mom grandma invited me over Sunday.
I told her sure it is ok isn’t it?”
Gretchen stopped what she was doing answering my question. “Yes, but what is it with your sudden relationship with your grandmother?”
I pour a cup of coffee before speaking. “I think she is cool.”
Mom laughs, “I never thought my mother was cool, strange yes, cool, no. I am glad you and mom are getting along. She is a terrific lady even if we disagree sometimes.”
I laugh, “that’s how I think of you. Funny how it works that way. With Dad it is different, he is just great.”
Before mom can react, I point to the cookie sheet “what’s that.”
Mom answers “salmon I am going to bake it for dinner.”
I stare at the fish, considering for a minute. “Show me how to do it?”
Mother stares at her me with an odd expression. Not odd in a bad way but odd as in astonished. “You want to learn how to cook?” The woman says slowly.
I, shrug “it is about time isn’t it? What I gather from hanging around here is if I wait for my husband to cook we will starve. Call it self defense mom.”
Gretchen stares gathering her composure fighting off a sudden urge to bust out in laughter. She simply points to the seasoning mix on the counter across from the sink. “Get that for me we start there.”
The phone rings, I quickly answer it. “Hi.” It is Hal and i quickly understands I can only return with my own, “hi.”
Hal begins to speak quickly unsure of himself. He is fairly certain who Sarah is but not positive, not assured. All the signs are there. The little signals seem to be the right ones. He cannot risk making a mistake. “What are you doing”, he asks.
I am almost certain Hal is Meg. I think he knows who I am. I can’t blow this. “I am listening the ball game.” I answer while fingering my Pirate hat. ‘A signal I am sending him a signal’, I think.
“what game the Yankees are on TV," Hal says.
My response comes quickly, “ The Yankees suck. I am listening to the Pirates and cubs. The Bucs are in first place with the Cardinals right on their heels.”
Hal laughs. “You are a Pirate fan?” He questions certain of the answer.
“Of course and we are going to the world series.” I answer with certainty.
Hal pauses for a moment thinking ‘in for a penny. I will throw out a test line. “Do you really think they will beat Baltimore?”
The question does not startle me as perhaps it should. I know they beat the Orioles. Meg knew that too. He could be a Baltimore fan and every fan believes their team will win the series. At least for awhile they do. Rather than a direct answer I question. “You are an Oriole fan?”
Unseen Hal shakes his head, “God no! Can’t stand them.”
“Then why say they are going to be in the series?” I fire back. “If you don’t like them why don’t you suppose the Yankees will be in the series? Everybody else does.”
With a voice of certainty Hal says. “Come on Sarah, we both know that the Orioles will be in the series.” Startled I blink “we do? Let’s suppose they are you doubt my team will beat them?”
Hal becoming somewhat assured Sarah is picking up on this and positive he is right challenges the girl. “Tell you what if the Pirates beat Baltimore you will go to the prom with me.”
I gasp gaining a minor victory. “what kind of a bet is that? If my team wins, I go to the prom with you?” There has to be more to this bet than that.”
“Let me up the ante,” says Hal. “Baltimore will win three of the first four games. Then Pittsburgh comes back to win the last three you will go to the prom with me?”
I turn white as my fingers grasp the phone. ‘Holy shit that is exactly what happened!’ There is a long pause and with certainty I know, ‘he is Megs.’
“Are you still there?” Hal asks.
“Uh sure I did not go anywhere. I am just trying to figure out where you came up with that.”
Hal laughs, “let’s say a little voice told me.”
Stalling I process the clues. ‘A little voice, interesting choice of words. He knows how the World Series plays out. I am almost certain now. “Ok if that happens and my parents let me go you have a prom date.”
Hal obviously happy with her answer pushes it. “Then can we call this a boy friend girl friend thing?”
“Maybe,” I answer. “Humility is more becoming you should try it. It is just a thought though I, gotta go. I’m getting the evil eye. See you Saturday.” I did not have to get off the phone because of my parents. I had to leave because Hal had rocked my boat. He just crumbled part of my wall raising my hopes that just perhaps I will be reunited with Megan.
I turned on the PDA to listen to the Friday night ball game when the Voice spoke. “I wanted to touch base with you. How are you progressing?”
Cautiously, I answer as I still do not trust this handler. “It is ok I am getting used to it. How is Megan is she progressing?”
The Voice reminds. “Megan is a he and doing just fine. You have not seen him?
I pause sensing a trap, “seen him? Most likely if he goes to my school but how would I know? You won’t tell me who he is.”
The Voice laughs, “I cannot do that. Do you have any boy friends yet?”
I am not interested in playing this game. My answer is sharp. “My parents won’t let me date and you know that.”
He presses further, “nothing important I just thought that curiosity would factor in. Like what does the other side experience in matter between people.”
I snarl at him “It has not crossed my mind.”
The Voice not ready to let go presses. “Do you know there are millions of men, who would love the opportunity share your experience.
Again I attempt to change the subject, “You know I am not millions. I hate to disappoint you but my bones are not going to be jumped just to satisfy your sick fantasy.”
The voice says, “don’t get short with me. I was just asking.”
“Fine, whatever,” I answer enunciating my favorite teen angst word, whatever, is there anything else?”
The Voice remains silent for a bit then remembers his discussion with his superiors and decides not to push it too far. “I was just simply asking to see if there is anything you need.”
I hesitate before responding. “I, don’t think so but there is a question.”
“Yes, what is it,” quires the Voice.
“You said when I accomplish my assignment. That Meg and I will be reunited. We will be a couple is that true?
The answer comes back as a certainty. “The boss promised that on that you can rely.”
I consider my next statement, “what of the old Sarah what if she is not ready?”
The voice’s defenses are suddenly raised as he knows the original is not likely to be ready. “Why do you ask?”
The tension in my voice is clear. “I just want to be certain if she is not you will not expect me to stay in this role any longer.”
The voice laughs, “worried you will get accustomed to skirts or what?”
Getting more irritated by the minute I comment, “I’d like to talk with your Boss it seems your word may not be good enough.”
The voice feigns hurt as he says, “Sarah you have the word of the Boss’s servant and you will not be forced to go beyond graduation. To make an informed decision you should indulge all aspects of being a beautiful young woman.”
I regard that with a jaundiced rebuttal. “No thank you Voice, I will do it my way. You just hold your end up.” I disconnect as the Voice says, “anything you need just ask.”
As I drifted off to sleep I remembered the resistance, I heard from the Voice and considered he did not answer my request to talk with the Boss. ’Oh well’ I get to spend tomorrow with Hal’. I frown thinking
There will be five other students and three teachers. Oh joy’ I slept well. If you discount a brief dream where James Earl Jones told me that he would protect me. The Voice did not have the final say on anything. For some strange reason I felt reassured but had no idea why.
My father dropped me off at the trail head and spoke with the teachers. Assured that these people had a good plan and knew what they were doing he went home. He would pick me up at four pm. Dad had all his hiking equipment in the trunk and was ready to go up the trail after us if he needed to.
The plan was to climb to a col between two high peaks. The col being the low point on the ridge top connecting two peaks. These peaks were two of the lower ones as late September can bring any kind of weather. There was a shelter at 3,000 feet where we could brake on the way up and back. Mr. Reynolds knew from experience the kids loved these shelters and they were the main attraction for a lot of them. I was the only girl other than Violet. Violet was with her boy friend so extra care was required to watch those two. At least I did not have a boy friend though Mr. Reynolds was certain the boys noticed me.
Hal and Sarah walked close together as he did not want anything to happen to her. ’It is funny, my acting protective of her. It has always been the other way around’. Hal thought. Hal walked at a steady pace enjoying his new found strength. After years of illness and chronic pain, Hal finally felt free and was loving it. When he noticed what he was doing an almost inaudible laugh escaped. Hal walked three or four feet behind Sarah for the first two miles his eyes constantly focused on her rear. He thought ‘I am really a guy, aren’t I?’ A soft laugh escaped at completion of that thought.
I heard that under the breath laugh Hal tried to hide. The second snicker caught my attention. I suddenly turned saying “What!” After seventy years as a guy, I knew what he was doing. What troubled me was I was loving it.
“Nothing,” came the reply from Hal.
Hal, one teacher and I were the only ones to reach the top of the second summit. The others chose to return to the shelter having had enough. Mr. Collins who went with Hal and I commented, “you two are very good. You have done this before.” We replied in the positive confessing we intended to do all of the high peaks. Several photos were taken including more than one of Hal and I, with my match needle camera. We soon headed down to the Shelter where Mr. Reynolds left a note explaining one of the students was sick. They decided to walk down early and will meet in the parking lot.
Mr. Collins came down with stomach cramps. He told Hal and I to wait. “I have to use the toilet wait in the shelter after lunch we will walk out.”
I looked at Hal. He was all smiles as we sit next to each other on the Deacons log. “Did you enjoy spending the entire day walking behind me?”
Hal feigns shock attempting to deny when I interrupted. “Hal for the last seventy years I was a guy. I know what you were doing.”
Saying that was a risk but I am certain it is Meg sitting next to me. Time to stop pussy footing around and take a chance. I, can’t wait for Meg’s reaction. I close my eyes praying I am not wrong.
Hal’s eyes widen, “then you know what I am going to do next.”
He leans closer taking me into his arms. When our lips met I nearly melted the rush was beyond anything I had felt before. His strong body against mine betrayed his physique. Especially the particular feature I felt pressed against my mid section. I kissed him back with equal desire whispering “I love you Megan.”
Hal answered back with the comment Megan had always given, “no more than I you bunky.”
I whispered, “it really is you.”
Hal nodded “your legs are awesome by the way Bob.”
He called me Bob. I suddenly knew for certain we found each other. I punched him playfully, whispering “Megs.” To which he feigned injury.
“I was only kidding when I said “you have the Kids the next time Bob.”
My eyes widen as I answered, “I wasn’t.
Though I admit the thought of ending up like this, scares the Hell out of me. Suddenly in Hal’s arms I felt comfortable and less threatened. “So let‘s just finish this,” I roll my eyes finishing. “This cosmic joke and get our real selves back.” He kissed me again passionately feeling the desire build as did I.
“You aren’t just a bit curious don’t you want to take these bodies for a spin before our grand return to normalcy?” Bob asked.
He brushed his fingers along my cheek. I shook my head in denial breaking our embrace just before Mr. Collins returned. I considered his question as I walked down the hill.
Hal assumed his position a few steps behind.
It was a relief to discover the others were safe when we returned to the trail head. The teachers made a big deal of Hal and I reaching both peaks. We dismissed it as aw shucks. Dad was already waiting as were Hal’s parents. I did not want to leave Hal as we went to different homes in different vehicles. My frustration increased having to separate from him and by my feelings of confusion. ‘Perhaps Grams can help’, I thought.
Early Sunday afternoon after father dropped me at grandmothers I sat at the kitchen table stirring tea with a confused lost expression. I was wearing a white turtle neck silk blouse under a tan and white flannel unbuttoned shirt. The shirt lay over a pair of faded stone washed jeans appearing as a light jacket. On my head was the cherished ball cap. Grandmother sitting opposite me was curious about what I had on my mind.
Grams could see the concern exude from my face. “Daughter what has you so upset? Is it love?”
I blinked, ‘she knows?’ I dismissed the question while searching for an alternative. “Everything is confusing Grams, that’s all.”
Eleanor Parks is a very astute witch. She is well aware that her granddaughter inherited the gift handed down though generations. She also understood Sarah’s mother was skipped over. Gretchen did not possess the gift though she has considerable intuition. Eleanor thought her granddaughter was at a crisis point. Perhaps shaken because of the discovery of her soul mate. She did not quite understand why this discovery caused conflict. In the past such experience brought with it a stability and feeling of security. Eleanor took a deep breath thinking to herself ‘it is time to rock the boat.’ She drew deeply into her powers projecting a spell that blocks escape. ‘I, can’t have her running I need to know.’ Grams gazes at Sarah asking, “where is the real Sarah?”
MY Magic PDA part 4
Bob and Megan, a married couple in their final years retired for the night. Just before drifting off to sleep Bob made an off hand comment to which Megan agreed with a slight twist. They did not know something was listening and granted their wish. How will this challenge work out when they hardly know the rules of the game?
Sept 20, 2011
Newly edited through the unforgiving seventh grade English teacher. There are a few minor changes but nothing to alter the story. You will notice a change from first person narrative to third person in some scenes. This is intentional. The primary focus is from Bob/Sarah's point of view. I shifted to third person when Bob/Sarah was not involved in the scene and for areas where scene setting is involved. With that in mind it should lessen any confusion. I trust this helps convince you there is a method for the writers madness and it is not a lack of skill. This decision may be a failure but I did it on purpose.
Rights reserved by the author with permission to host granted exclusively to Big Closet.
The question hit me like a ton of bricks. I blink nearly spilling my tea from the clattering cup. “What?’ Is all I can manage.
Eleanor’s fingers trace Sarah’s wrist signaling her support. She again speaks softly. “I know Sarah has changed. But your change has been too great considering the whoring drug user that was my granddaughter.” Her eyes narrow as she adds, “I sense you are an A3.”
I desperately reach for a response. Something to stall while I figure out what to do. I cannot slide my chair back to run. That is not an option.
“An A3 what on Earth is an A3! I have no idea of what you are talking about.”
Grams simply smiles “you are aware we are both witches. You should also realize my skills are far more developed than yours. I will tell you child we are not alone in the universe. You were sent here for a purpose. I, don’t pretend to know why my granddaughter is so important to the order of the universe for the Boss to intercede.”
I sit back listening realizing grandmother knows. What does she know? I have no idea what to say. I remain silent while Grams speaks.
“You know my daughter your mother tried to kill herself not too long ago? In fact it was not too long before you arrived.”
I shake my head stunned at this revelation. “I did not, what happened?”
Eleanor answered “I cast a spell on her to prevent her from taking further action. Then told her quite firmly things would change for the better. I told her to keep fighting. Child my spell cannot hold if there is anymore disappointment.”
I nodded. “Grams I am not going to let her down.”
“Not on purpose I sense,” responded Eleanor. The woman goes on “I am confused about why but there is no doubt you are not the original Sarah.” Eleanor offers a hard gaze upon whoever the granddaughter sitting before her is.
Trapped fully aware I cannot sidestep the issue and this woman will see through a lame story. I consider, ‘should I trust her? She will think I’m daft.’ I, shrug ‘what the hell this zany charade is driving me crazy.’ I set down my tea but before answering I stall repeating a question she did not answer before. “First tell me what is an A3?”
Grams smiles saying, “you don’t know? They did not tell you?” I shake my head. “Then you have no idea about past lives child?” Grams is unsure ‘is the girl is being honest?’ Eleanor pretends to accept that Sarah has not been informed.
“Past lives?” I question. “I know nothing about any past life.”
Eleanor processes this information before coming to a conclusion this a bit more of an oddity. She decides to go forward with a straight answer. “An A3 is a classification noting where you stand in your process to eternal reward or eternal banishment to the Underworld. When you leave this life the committee reviews your standing then sends you back for further growth. Or,” she pauses, “forward to your final solution. Hardly ever does returning involve placement other than that of a newborn. To do otherwise, requires an important task. That can only be assigned to an A2 or 3.”
I almost laugh at her saying “sorry but I did not die.”
Now it is grandmother’s turn to blink having never heard of such a thing. Touching Sarah’s wrist she says, “tell me your story child. Please leave nothing out.”
I relate the entire story leaving out the presence of Megan. Grandmother’s eyes widen providing only a slight glimpse that she is accepting it. I sense it is less doubt and more surprise on grandmother‘s part. I have no idea which it is. I breathe a sigh of relief when she does not call 911.
Eleanor almost shouted her incredulous disbelief of how this was handled. “What idiot turned you into Sarah why not your wife?”
I shake my head confessing no knowledge over what is going on.
“What are you going to do child?” Eleanor asks with a tone of seriousness.
I state calmly “I will do everything I can to straighten out your granddaughter’s life. I intend to give her a life to return to. What she does with it, I cannot control. I want to be reunited with Megan.”
Eleanor says, “you already have improved your life granddaughter. You saved your mother’s life. Gretchen is more relaxed and happier than I have seen her in years. She tells me all the time how proud of you, she is.” She leans across the table hugging Sarah.
I widen my eyes and my voice trembles. “ I am not Sarah just a place holder.”
“I, can’t imagine the terrible conflicting feelings you have my dear. It was not fair what the idiot did to you. I hope the powers to be are making him pay for this. You have done well. Until things change, you are my granddaughter. But you did not tell me everything did you?”
I pause repeating, “everything?”
Grams smiles, “yes Megan your soul mate. She has to be here and if I am correct she is a male and the reason you are here.” “Sarah, you are in love. I see it in your eyes and knowing the story it can only be with your soul mate. You are not about to look at another.” Grandmother laughs. “How long did it take you to figure out who he was?”
I giggle, “not long.”
Eleanor poured refills to both cups and lifted a package from the counter placing it on the seat next to her. Eleanor continued “you made a few mistakes fortunately only I noticed. Remember on day one you learned to apparate? When your father removed the trellis you did not use that ability. Instead you went along with the grounding. The old Sarah would never passed up that chance.” Grandmother sits back. “Then you cast off the clothing not wearing the short skirts showing off what assets you have.” She laughs adding, “now I know why. I do have this gift for you.” She passes the package to the girl.
I hold up a navy pleated skirt and discover I can now stand. Placing it against my waist, I gush, “Perfect I love it.” I examine a white camisole top repeating my sizing of it. “This goes great with the skirt Grams. You knew enough to buy pumps with low heels.” I raise my brows whispering “I love you.” I then felt an instant vice consumed by grandmother’s bear hug.
Eleanor whispers, “you have a feminine soul. I, don’t agree with what they did but I understand why.”
Grandmother sits back “try them your soul mate will like it and you will gain some understanding. I am not encouraging you to want to remain as you are. I must say you are my granddaughter. The one I prayed to have. And Sarah,” her tone turns serious. “You will have some hard decisions to make. Take your time don’t rush.”
I return to a serious tone. “Do you think I am being set up?”
The elder woman answers taking the girl’s hand. “No dear the Boss is on your side. I doubt he had a hand in how you and your wife were switched. I suspect he is quite upset. Just remember your new parents love you deeply as I and your soul mate do. With that amount of love you cannot fail.”
I hug grandmother again, “you don’t make things easy. You don’t know how hard this is. I find myself resenting the loss of who I was. Then I curse me for feeling sorry for myself. If I said no, Megan would be suffering in constant pain. How selfish would I be then?”
“Is it so bad? To be a beautiful young woman who has already found the man who will love her forever?”
I answer, “like I said Grams you don’t make it easy.”
The elder witch kisses Sarah’s cheek, “you can count on me whatever happens. The next time I will teach you some spells. Don’t tell your mother.”
When I get home I rush upstairs to take a shower and try on the clothes grandmother gave me. I walk downstairs enjoying the feel of the material. I stop quickly in front of the full mirror smiling at my reflection. My reverie is broken by a whistle from father.
He calls “Gretchen come quick it’s a girl and a looker at that.”
Mom comes rushing out to look just as I turn to run up the stairs. “You look nice did you buy that outfit?” I shake my head, “Grams.”
The one word answer says it all. Mom smiles, “don’t disappear dinner is ready.”
Gretchen puts down her fork. “Sarah, Claire called she wanted you to go shopping with her. She said to call her back when you got home. It slipped my mind I am sorry.” Gretchen tightened expected a tirade.
I simply nodded saying, “that’s all right I will call her after dinner.”
Mother relaxed thinking ‘she really has changed.’ It was then that Dad commented. “Your team did what I thought was impossible. They were the first to come back from being down three games to one.”
I beam, “I was never worried. Just imagine the bragging rights I can gloat all year.”
Gretchen suddenly exclaims “I almost forgot my program I will have to rush to get the dishes done.”
“Don’t worry about it mom I’ll get them.”
Mom’s eyes widen, “you will?”
As the parents walk to the living room Gretchen looks to Martin, “what happened?” Martin smiles, “don’t ask just enjoy.”
The voice was quick to speak as Sarah turned on her PA to do nothing really. “Sarah, how about an update” the Voice begins.
I almost shut the machine off instead I quipped, “an update? Nothing to report things are just going along. That is what you wanted wasn’t it? Why don’t you tell me what comes next. I have this girl on track when is she coming back?”
The voice answers “the goal is completed when you graduate.”
I again balk questioning, “no one has told me how the original is doing.”
He does not answer only a dismissive comment comes from the Voice. “Don’t worry about it do your job and you get what you want.”
“What about Megan is she ok?” I press.
The voice gives his same noncommittal answer. “You talked to her a week ago and everything was fine.”
I whine it is a trait I learned well along with the innocent pout. “she told me nothing you won’t let us talk. I bet you watch us non stop following us down the halls of school, don’t you?” I was attempting to discover just how far my handler could reach. Piss him off and he slips up every so often, I have been able to get him to reveal things unintentionally before.
With a tinge of stress the Voice replies, “follow you? We communicate through this contraption and I can talk to you in dreams. But I, can’t see you.“
I present a doubtful tone challenging that. “You are telling me you can’t see me.”
The voice replies, “I cannot so stop nagging me.”
“Stop nagging you!” I scream in all caps. “You turn me into a girl and cry because I ask questions? I find that hard to believe you are that limited in your ability.”
Frustrated, the voice grows more indignant. “I cannot physically see you other than on this PDA screen when we are communicating.
“So you can see me right now.” I press. I, Can‘t see you that‘s not fair.
“Yes but, he continues. “The Boss won’t allow you to see me until” he stops.
One of those eternal moments took place revealing I hit a nerve.
The Voice begins again. “For you to see me, I have to assume a human form. Only the Boss can allow that. He will not until the assignment is complete. I can communicate with you in this matter only. And in the dream state but I am not allowed to manipulate in that manner.”
“Then we will meet face to face when we are finished in June?” I challenged.
Grudgingly the Voice answers “Yes we will set up a meeting when it is time for you to choose your new host. Both you and Megan together then you will know who he is, not until then.”
Once the communication is closed I smile, ‘got him again. I still don’t trust him.’ I go off to sleep well satisfied. Again I am visited in my dream. A deep speaking voice confirmed. “You are more than a match for the voice. I am enjoying your sparing with him.”
The school year progressed steadily with little conflict as I proved to be popular. I grew more guarded as my abilities in witchcraft honed with little effort on my part. To me it seemed to be a natural progression. As I walked down the hall to class I could actually read some of the thoughts male students transmitted. One guy actually told me by thought some pretty nasty things he wanted to do. ‘God,’ I thought, ’that son of a bitch is dangerous.’ It was things like this drew me even closer to Hal.
Everyone in school knows we are a couple. It was clear I belong to Hal. It helps Hal six foot tall and ripped. It is clear Hal is no one to antagonize. I feel safe. What troubles me is the sudden desire to wear those new gold maple leaf earrings. Mother convinced me to not only get my ears pierced but a manicure as well. ’What’s next lipstick’ I thought. This girly persona is getting out of control and Hal is loving every minute of it.
I am rarely without Hal or Claire at my side. I need not worry as I know plenty of defense spells. I can immobilize an attacker with a single thought. I do not want to be in a position to explain it if seen. “I wonder,’ that guy who wants to do me in nasty ways. Could I cast a spell giving him a period?’ Laughing I thought ‘I’ll ask grams.’
Cindy Carlton catches up with Hal as he was leaving the school track. Hal had been running while he was waiting for Sarah to get out of her class for lunch. Cindy leans close to him whispering “I hear the Ice Princess does not put out.” Before Hal can react she presses her hand against his unit saying, “he feels like he needs attention.” Hal blinks gently moving her hand “what do you charge?” Horrified Cindy attempted to slap him but Hal stepped back. He laughs. “Whatever, you are not worth it.”
I saw the interaction and watched Cindy turn to walk away. I smile kissing Hal‘s cheek.
Hal flustered, “you heard?”
Grinning I say, “of course, if you want to go for it.”
Hal lowers his eyes, “Sarah you know I would never.”
Realizing the spot the poor fellow is in I giggle. “I am only teasing. I am as curious as you are.”
Hal’s eyes widen, “really?”
“Down boy,” I fire back. “It is not time.” I demonstrated my expertly honed coy smile. “I know you want to take that out on a test drive. Cindy is such a total babe I, wouldn’t blame you.” Leaning closer I whisper in Hal’s ear. “It is me the seventy year old Bob. I know what you are going through.”
Hal looks at her thinking ‘I was a woman for seventy years I know exactly what would happen if I acted on that. The female Bob would come out with a vengeance’ Being a guy though he could not resist. “What do you mean? I will never hurt you.”
Sarah replies “I know Hal, but I see you and everyday you seem to enjoy being a guy more and more. Do you know what the voice told me?”
Hal shakes his head “no what?”
I tell him about the face to face meeting in June when we can chose our new personas. “Hal will you be ready to return to skirts?”
Hal shrugs, “will you be ready to give them up Sarah?” He kisses Sarah again. “Babe, I love you more than life itself. We will do what makes both of us happy. No, the voice tells me nothing.”
I answer him. “I was only kidding about Cindy. You want to screw her go ahead. It might help you decide if you want to be a guy or not.”
Hal says, “are you serious?”
I nod and walk toward the lunch room.
Hal walks beside her thinking ‘I was a woman for seventy years. I know what she said but I don’t buy a word of it. Do I want to die? No! Then forget that idea.’ He pats Sarah on the behind, ‘but if she makes the same offer of herself.’ Hal grins as his hand rest on Sarah’s hip. ‘She is the best looking guy I have ever seen.’
I turn to Hal and his expression is confused to say the least. He suddenly wraps his arms around me kissing me with passion. I nearly melt my hormones rising. I think ‘he is not making this easy.’
On a Saturday afternoon I am sitting on the edge of Claire’s bed with my legs tucked under me. I am wearing the outfit grandmother bought me. The black haired girl sits next to me chatting away about her boyfriend Paul. “So Sarah how is it going with you and Hal?”
I smile. “It could not be better, but we have not crossed the line.”
Claire blushes “Paul and I haven’t either though we want to.” The conversation continued along that vein for several minutes until my gaze caught glimpse of a guitar in the corner. “Is that your’s?” I ask Claire.
The girl nods as she stands to retrieve it. “I tried learning but I’m not too good at it. I can play a few riffs.” She begins to strum not sounding too bad. She was pretty good as a matter of fact. “Did you ever try the guitar Sarah?” Claire asks adding. “I am struggling but not awful” she giggles.
I dismissively shrug, “I used to play some until people started to cringe. The hard rock screamed at them and my parents threatened to confiscate it. Dad cited something about violating the noise ordinances.”
Claire laughed offering the instrument.
I declined, “your parents won’t like the noise.”
Claire pushed “do something soft, come on.”
Holding the guitar I fingered it considering saying, “I don’t really know any songs that are quiet. I never listened to John Denver you know.”
Claire laughs, “fake it.”
I begin to play a verse of one of Bob’s favorites by Sarah McLachlan. The tune of Elsewhere begins to take shape as I sing,
“Oh the quiet child awaits the day she can break free
The mold that clings like desperation
Mother can’t you see I’ve got to live my life the way I feel is right for me
Might not be right for you but it’s right for me, Oh”
I suddenly stop as Claire’s eyes are wide. “Oh, my God Sarah where did that come from it’s awesome.”
I try to make myself small realizing the mistake I made. “It’s nothing that’s all I got. I don’t even know where it came from.”
Claire looks doubtful, “really you are not jiving me are you?”
I shake my head swearing, “no it is just something that has been kicking around.” Another shrug, “you know we all do that.”
Claire nods “I do that too but Sarah, your voice, those words”
With a blush I stumble forward. “Think of it this way. In twenty years when you hear that song you will remember me.”
Claire punches her “like I’d ever forget you.”
Later that evening I told grandmother on the phone about the incident reporting how I was in a cold sweat. Grandmother agreed not knowing the singer or the song she said to me “you need to control that spontaneity.” I giggle, “I know Grams. You know how many times in the shower I catch myself singing Starship’s song Sara?”
Grandmother smiles “Who’s song?”
I laugh again. “A rock group named Starship releases the song in 1985 and it goes to the top.”
Grams says. “When you come over you sing it for me. I don’t want to wait that long. You know child as a witch I have powers but you have a curse.”
I blink, “a curse?”
Grandmother explains the heavy responsibility I bear because I can remember the future. “It is not the same as predicting. You know the certainty. You must be careful child. You have the ability to cause major disruptions.”
I frown, “thanks for the reminder.”
Thanksgiving comes and goes along with it as the season morphs into the deep cold and heavy snow of an Adirondack winter slow transformations take place with Sarah and Hal. Hal often works out. He avoided organized school sports. As Megan he rejected the jock’s persona. Hal wanted nothing to do with that scene. To be expected considering who Hal was he recoiled each time one of the guys spoke about their sexual conquest. Hal rarely spoke to them of Sarah allowing himself to only say things like how cool and together she is. Some of the guys called him pussy whipped but not to his face. He often heard references to Sarah’s clown accompanied to the tune of the old Everly Brothers hit, Cathy‘s Clown.
Hal did not have it too bad though since he was regarded as a hunk and quite popular. He did question inwardly about what he was going to do. Hal certainly enjoyed being a guy. He liked working with his father on fix up jobs and was becoming a capable carpenter. Like Sarah, he had no siblings in this family and no ability to sneak into a sister’s room to try on her clothes. In fact he came to regard womens' clothing as something designed by men. He missed what he enjoyed while being Megan. This new world gave him more independence, more strength, more options. Hal questioned with apprehension ‘how are Bob and I going to resolve this.’
With six feet of snow piled up I look out my upstairs bed room window. I have too many questions. My everyday school uniform morphed to include black tights. The feeling of silken shaved legs are exciting. The everyday glances in my direction that I notice. I can feel them measuring my form. It pleased while at the same time threatens me. I feel the building desire emanating from Hal. My own curiosity grew each day. I am well aware eventually I will give myself to Hal. The unbroken white glare from below is interrupted every few moments by snow falling from the pines. The scene is enthralling even if it is minus ten degrees out there.
I thought about grandmother’s warning that I would have tough decisions to make. ‘Could Hal and I simply switch places? Would he even want to?’ I step into a tub to enjoy a bubble bath. ‘I wonder do we simply fire up the Sims on the Voice’s computer and build our new bodies? That is if the real Hal and Sarah come back?’ I sink myself into the warm water. Enjoying the feeling to the limit, I close my eyes, ‘like they are coming back. No girl you are screwed. Well at least I could not have built a better me if I had a choice.’
Martin Ryan spoke to his wife Gretchen one week before Christmas. He was holding a letter from the school. “They want us to come in for a review of Sarah’s progress on Tuesday.”
Gretchen frowns, “is that something they normally do or is this an exception?”
Martin answers, “it was not mentioned in the prospectus other than to say parental reviews are sometimes done.”
Gretchen’s eyes narrow, “shit! It is going to hit the fan isn’t it?”
Martin warns, “who knows she has been doing quite well hasn’t she?”
Mother draws defensive, “I though so but we both know she can be devious.”
Martin hugs his wife, “don’t you believe her?”
“Of course, I do Martin. But years of disappointment, lies, drugs and what else who knows?”
Mr. Rossi greeted the parents to his office. As they entered they noticed what some of the thousands they paid to send their daughter here provided. The plush thick pile tan carpet cushioned and warmed their feet as they crossed to the supple leather wing backed chairs. The hand rubbed highly polished oaken desk gleamed back at them as light shown through the arched cut glass windows. Gretchen smoothed her skirt as she sat while Martin simply crossed his legs. Mr. Rossi sat after shaking their hands. His expression did not betray any concerns or issue any warning about what he might say.
The Head Master opened a tan file folder laying it flat on the table before him. “I must say,” he begins. “Your daughter has created quite a stir among the staff.”
Both parents gulp clasping each other’s hand awaiting the bomb shell. “We have a concern Mr. and Mrs. Ryan which needs to be cleared up. I am hoping you can help.”
Gretchen and Martin look at each other puzzled. “Problem?” Martin begins, “what problem is Sarah causing trouble? If so why weren’t we told?” His expression relates his now defensive posture.
Rossi passes a single sheet of paper across to the parents. The letter head carries the public school’s mast head and logo. It is dated August 10, 1979. Gretchen and Martin view the impossible grades as they were listed mostly A’s and B’s. The letter was signed by the principal, Mrs. Quinn. The school seal was affixed. Both parents raised their brows. They knew this could not be true. But neither said anything.
“Now we get this one dated last week.” Mr. Rossi passes another sheet to the parents. Same letter head, same stamped seal with the same signature. The highest grade was a D.
Rossi speaks again. “I called the school they deny sending the first notice. It seems your daughter was absent more days than she attended. Can you explain this?”
Martin answers, “what you are proposing is either my wife or I sneaked into the school. We then intercepted your request, forged the school records and copied the principal’s signature then affixed the school seal. Can you even remotely explain how that is plausible?”
Surprised Rossi answers, “no I cannot and I am not accusing you of anything.”
Martin points to the attached envelopes. “Do you see both of these reports were made from the school. It looks like they made the mistake.”
Gretchen interrupts, “we never made any claims. We signed the releases. You requested the records and you accepted her. I admit we were surprised you accepted her. To suggest we did anything illegal in order to provide cover for an incompetent school is an affront.”
Rossi sits back reducing his posture to enable a calming answers “I did not mean to imply. I was only asking if you had any idea how this happened.”
Martin, in a cold voice responds, “we answered that question. You tell us how is Sarah doing in her classes and what is her behavior like? We have not fielded a single complaint.”
Rossi reaches for another file already knowing the answer. Straight A’s she is challenging for valedictorian and rumor has it, prom queen.”
Both parents blink, “what!” They say in unison.
Mr. Rossi smiles. “Whatever happened be it a sudden turnaround from rebel or a mistake by the old school Sarah is a credit to this school and her parents.” All three stand handshakes around. “Thank you for coming in,” Rossi finishes.
Gretchen and Martin walk outside stunned. Martin looks to Gretchen. “I did not expect that.”
After dinner that evening Sarah was talking on the phone with her friend Claire while her parents drank coffee in the kitchen.
Martin spoke first, “hon are you surprised by the school report?”
She exhales slowly, “shocked is more like it. We thought she was doing better, making an effort. But this I can’t explain.”
Martin smiles, “I think I can. It is because of you.”
Gretchen leans forward reaching for her husband’s hand. “How can you say that?” Her eyes fully tearing as he answers.
“Remember the night in the park when you found her buzzed, high on drugs? How you dragged her out with two guys threatening you and the kid screaming calling you every name in the book. And the time you dragged her out of a bar so drunk she could not stand. You actually struck a guy with that backpack you call a purse. He threatened you and you slugged him with that thing.”
“Then there was the time last summer when you drove one hundred fifty miles to overtake and drag her off a bus. She was running away with some hippies. How about the time you brought her to the hospital when you found her unconscious beside the road?”
Gretchen blinks remaining silent the tears over coming her. “Perhaps,”
Martin finishes “all of this had an effect.”
Gretchen shook her head, “I, don’t know. It was not me alone you know you were right beside me.”
Martin hugs her, “valedictorian, prom queen? Who would have thunk it?”
Gretchen adds, “we won’t even let her date.”
“Got that straight and I’m not changing my mind now.” Martin contributes before Gretchen stills him with a finger pressed to his lips. “Martin you can’t say no to the Senior Prom after what she has accomplished. You know that boyfriend of hers is quite a guy.”
Martin blinks, “boy friend? She is not allowed to date.”
Gretchen laughs, “have you looked at your daughter? Count yourself lucky there are not a hundred guys coming around. Besides we said no dating. We never mentioned boy friend. You know Hal Cowles don’t you?” “The guy from the outing club. He saved her life you know.”
Before Martin can comment Gretchen goes on, “besides Hal reminds me of you. Sarah cannot go wrong if he is like you.”
Martin presses, “saving her life? You forgot to mention this little matter!”
Gretchen answers, “I will let Sarah tell you. She tells that story quite graphically.
I hung up the phone after finishing my discussion with Claire. I heard her mother’s comment but did not wish to discuss it. I escaped quite nicely with the school report and did not want to push it. I turned walking up the stairs to my room. I Mumbled to myself complaining the initial Sarah did not record any of her dalliances in her journal. I questioned if the girl was too zoned out to remember any of it or if it was a desire to not leave evidence behind. I slipped into the bubble bath to soak thinking, ‘what an effed up broad.’ As I relaxed having avoided the Voice, ‘no I did not want to talk to him.’ I returned to my original thoughts. Looking down at those budding breasts noting how small they were. ‘I think it is a trait of athletic girls perhaps that’s why I climb mountains and run as often as I can.’ My fingers brush against the mounds raising a sense of warmth. I smiled imaging what experience may come from finally letting Hal try that.
The incident about Hal saving my life may have been a bit melodramatic containing more romanticism than anything else. I was climbing a slide on one of the mountains. We were forced to traverse along a crack about half the width of my foot. Hal led the way until we reached a corner with nowhere to go but up. Hal reached for a tree trunk about six or seven inches in diameter. I followed scared shitless but could not reach the tree. I am now four inches shorter than Hal. I cussed about my losing inches from my old self. My foot slipped and I started to fall. There was nothing but two thousand feet of air below.
Without turning around Hal reached back, grabbed yelling “hold on”. He pulled me up. Once on top of the ridge Hal hugged me tightly with all he had. His passionate kiss set me on fire. He suddenly stopped now that we were safely on top of the ridge. He began rubbing his arm as it was bright red from my grip.
“I told you to hold tight” he said. “I did not mean with your teeth.”
I laughed saying, “with my arms, my legs and my teeth. I will hold onto you.”
There were several incidents where we discovered each could anticipate what the other was thinking. We knew what the other needed at any given moment without speaking.
After describing this story to dad, during the ride to school the next morning I said. “Dad I do love him and I know how he feels about me.” Dad took it in stride saying “I have to meet this Adonis.”
Mrs. Ryan cautiously explores the issue of birth control with Sarah. Knowing full well an excusatory explosion could erupt. Gretchen had thought before speaking but plowed ahead thinking ’I am her parent, not her friend. Screw risking offending her.’
I found it humorous to see mom struggle with this. “No mom there is no need for that Hal and I respect each other.”
Gretchen exhaled slowly as she drops her daughter at school. ’Who is that girl? I love her.’ She, shrugs then drives home.
“Her name is Sarek” Dar’Fur the six and a half foot tall Vulcan says resolutely as he presents his report to the committee. The supervisor listens carefully while the Voice sits distracted at the end of the table. They were referring to the initial Sarah sent off because the committee could not control her. Dar’Fur reports the girl was resistant until he completed a mind meld. “
She harbored considerable anger which I was able to release. She is hosted by a Vulcan teenage female body and with some difficulty she is accepting of her new culture. We have completed the Affianced ceremony.”
The Supervisor questions “Affianced?”
Dar’Fur answers “that is the process of promising her in marriage. She will be united with an Elder’s son.” Dar’Fur laughs, “she is very distressed because her first pon farr is seven years off.”
The Supervisor’s brows raise. “You mean she won’t have sex for seven years?”
The vulcan nods. “It had to be done to reduce her human promiscuity.“ Dar’Fur levels a scolding glance to those sitting at the table. “I discussed this with the Boss before applying our methods. You cannot expect the girl to inhabit a Vulcan body and not be treated as a Vulcan. Nor can you expect the Vulcan body cycles not to occur.”
The voice, asks,” what you are saying is she will not be available to rejoin her old body.”
Dar’Fur nods, “that is correct unless you determine to undo what we gained. She is a Vulcan.”
The voice frowns, “whatever will I tell Sarah our agent?”
The Supervisor answers, “for now you remain silent.”
Dar’Fur stands, “we are done.” As the Vulcan exits the Boss enters the room.
“Voice,” he says with deep resonance “do not worry about Sarah or Hal for that matter. They will be given the bodies of their choice as promised. It is for the best we do not upset the girl at this critical juncture.”
The Voice nods happy to be relieved of the task of breaking the news. Conflict is not something he is good at. “What should we tell the original Hal?” The Voice asked the Boss nervously.
The Boss says “as we lost the original Sarah, I rewrote the fates. He is now in North Carolina with his new soul mate.”
The voice blinks not wanting to challenge the Boss. “Don’t mention this to Hal either?”
The Boss answered, “correct as both the original hosts failed.”
The Supervisor with a concerned expression says, “Boss you don’t want them to know because you believe they care about the originals because they are living their lives trying to repair the damage. The knowledge before finishing their assignments may cause them to give up in despair.”
“Something like that”. the Boss answers. The meeting was declared over and each began to file out.
The Voice remained seated alone in the room. He glanced from one corner to the other as beads of sweat built upon his brow.
The Boss returned, “Voice what are you doing sitting there?” “
Can we talk?” Came a sheepish reply.
The cheerleaders chilled to the bone were nevertheless jumping up and down yelling at the top of their voices. Perhaps part of it was because it warmed them on the cold April afternoon. Perhaps it was because Sarah was well ahead as she turned the final corner in the quarter mile race. The girl cut quite a figure in her brief blue shorts and White tee emblazoned with the Pine view logo. Ryan was lettered on the back with the number 21. She insisted on number 21 after her hero the Great Roberto Clemente. She wore a gold head band with her short honey blond hair billowing from underneath. As she crossed the finish line she bent over grabbing her thighs. The team surrounded her and Hal stood there beaming. She had just won the North Country girls track meet in the quarter mile. If her team mates win the relay, the school wins the section title.
I am so nervous I pace back and forth waiting for the next race. After I gulped for air to steady my breathing, I finally relax. I am happy not to be running in the next race. I won two races this afternoon having won the 100 meter dash as well. I happened to see Trish standing with the cheerleaders. She was waving at me. Trish called, “Sarah over here.”
I walked over “you were great,”
Trish exclaimed, “Congratulations.” Trish points to the scoreboard “you broke the state quarter mile record. We never won the championship before.”
I hug Trish happily nodding, “one more race to go and those Raiders are murder.” I point to the red uniformed team. “They win all the time don’t they?”
Trish now joined by the other cheerleaders who began to chime in. “They never had to go against you.”
I blush with pride mostly because I have been accepted.
Karen the captain of the hot girls club said. “The first time I laid eyes on you. I hated you.”
Her declaration catches me off guard and I widen my eyes, “why I didn’t even know you?”
Karen smiles, “because I figured you could have any guy you wanted. You would cut into my turf. Then you defended us when you did not have to. Now you are state champion and you don’t act too good to talk to us.”
Giggling, I look at Karen offering my hand saying. “Karen like I said I know how hard you guys work. I doubt I’d be able to keep up,” Now I am grinning. “Besides life is tough enough no need to make enemies when you don’t have to.”
Karen smiles back. “Where did you find that hunk? Hal is his name isn’t it?”
Trish answers, “remember that guy who sat with the geeks and you called him a loser?”
Karen blinks, pointing toward the approaching Hal, “that was him?” She flushes, “Oh my God.”
I turn almost leaping into Hal’s arms kissing him. While in the classic movie pose with one leg in the air sticking out behind I turn my upper body smiling toward Karen, “I did notice and he is a keeper.”
In a matter of minutes the school’s relay team came across the finish line first.
Gretchen and Martin had finally managed to work their way through the crowd they did not see the kiss. Sarah and Hal approached as did Mr. and Mrs. Cowles. Hal introduced his parents to Sarah’s while the adults exchanged greetings the pair stood quietly.
Mrs. Cowles turned to Sarah “so you are the girl who captured my son.”
I raise a mused expression as my eyes betray my joy.
That was an amazing run just before the final event.” Mrs. Cowles stated before turning to my parents. “You should be proud.”
Mom beamed with satisfaction this being one of the few times in the past several years she received compliments from anyone about me. The small talk continued for a short time before the families parted for their separate homes. But not before a few quiet “I love you” whispers passed between Hal and I.
For Hal’s part he was never into sports as Megan. With this forced assignment he did as requested, keep a low profile. As Megan, she went along with Bob in his rooting for various teams pretending to be interested.
In this life with her old personality she was not going to change just to please some voice on a PDA. She was Hal the love of her life remains that same person, her soul mate, even if he looks like a heart breaker.
To say Megan as Hal was confused would be an understatement. Just one glance into the mirror told the story. ‘I am six foot tall with muscles where I never had before. My old self would be panting to get closer to the new me’ She felt the rise of that troublesome unit when it saluted each time Sarah made an appearance. ‘It must be the hormones because the sight of a naked guy in the gym shower does nothing for me. When I see a girl everything is different.’ Hal takes a deep breath as he slides his fingers along the offending organ, while thinking of Sarah. He stops considering ‘I really am a guy.’ He grins at that thought ‘it’s not that bad there are certain advantages.’ Hal fires up his PDA to talk with the Voice but he gets no response. There are a million questions he needs to ask but ‘they will have to wait’ he thinks.
At that moment the Voice is sitting at the table looking doubtfully at the Boss after presenting the question he now regrets.
The Boss offers a stern gaze. “What is it you wish to discuss?”
“The assignment,” returns a nervous Voice.
The Boss rubs his chin thoughtfully, “what about the assignment?”
Gathering his courage the Voice in a small tenor, almost a squeak speaks his mind. “Now that the mission has fallen apart I request reassignment.”
The Boss raises his brows presenting a curious gaze. “What makes you think it has failed?”
The Voice blinks being uncomfortable speaking to his master in this way. “Sir the initial Sarah, we intended to restore because of the assigned fates is forever lost to her family. She will not return from Vulcan. You verified that by rewriting the fates.”
He draws a deep breath continuing. “The original Hal who died was downloaded into a new host and united with his soul mate. You admitted yourself Sarah was misidentified as his soul mate.”
The Boss begins to show agitation but the Voice continues.
“Instead of the original Hal and Sarah’s line of descendents producing some world saving event you changed it to Hal and another female. What are we doing? The faithful pair you sent to pave the way, are completing their task for no purpose. It no longer matters if they succeed or not.”
The Boss studies his underling for a considerable amount of time before responding. “You have summed up the situation accurately. Except you are missing several possibilities which I will not outline at this time. You owe it to the new Hal and Sarah to make sure they complete their task. Then you will present the choices to them and you will bring them here to choose their new bodies.”
The Voice blinks, lowering his gaze in submission.
The Boss adds as the Voice stands to leave. “At this very moment Hal is trying to contact you. I suggest you attend to it.”
A sort while later, the Voice was doing crisis control attempting to mollify the boy. There were many questions posed by Hal. The most concerning question required confirmation they will be united together in a similar fashion that existed before this intervention. There were no real answers beyond affirmation that required faith.
Hal exited the conversation with no more certainty than he had when he began. He sat in the den looking at an open school book without seeing the pages. He thought about the gender dysphoria he experienced. Hal relished in his ability to simply crawl out of bed, shower and run a comb through his hair to get ready. He loved not having girls measuring him as the competition but as an object to be desired. Guys are different. True they are competitive but not utilizing the catty rituals Megan had struggled with. He also reveled in the basic benefit of not having a monthly visitor.
Then there was the girls they noticed them and he noticed them. ‘I love Bob with all my heart but can I go back to being Megan? I long to make love to Sarah. Do I long to protect Sarah and provide for her as she did me for fifty years? What about Sarah what does she want?’ Shaking his head Hal tried to study but nothing was resonating from those pages.
Late in the spring, I was eating lunch alone when Claire arrived late in an excited mood.
The girl sat down hurriedly, “Sar,” she, eeps. “I just spoke with the Head Master. He called me in to give me the news.”
I tilt my head noting the excitement “news what news?”
Claire smiles, “I am in the top two for a full scholarship at Hillsdale College. Have you ever heard about that school?”
I beam excitedly, “yes they are in the Midwest somewhere, very expensive, very exclusive. Tell me what is that about?”
Claire tells me “It seems every year that college gives a free ride to the top student at this school. I, can’t go to college without a deal like that. My parents could not afford it.”
I finger my hair twisting a knot around my index finger. I say nothing letting Claire talk.
She continues “I never told anybody but I need a scholarship to go here. My parents could never afford this place. All of these kids here are rich. Haven’t you noticed there are only two or three that live in this area?”
Nodding I admit, “I never thought about it.”
Claire in a quiet voice, “you did not have to.”
That conversation bothered me all afternoon I silently prayed Claire would win. ‘I could ask the Voice He does owe me’ I thought. As I entered study hall a teacher sends me to the Dean’s office. Where I learned, I was the other student. “Mr. Rossi,” I begin, “what if I, don’t want it?”
Rossi’s eyes nearly explode, “don’t want it? Are you serious? Your parents would get very upset and we would have to include the third best student for consideration. Furthermore, you may not be allowed to withdraw.”
My eyes narrow as Rossi speaks further. “Ms Ryan you are our top student and the award always goes to the top student. Rarely does the panel select the salutatorian. It can happen but unless you egg the cars of the panel you will likely win.”
I leave the office completely depressed planning ways to burn down the gym.
I told Hal about it and he became excited then hesitated. “This certainly screws things up what are you going to do?”
I laugh “I could always get caught slashing tires.”
Hal grabs my shoulders shaking “you will do no such thing.”
I smile “of course not. I will drive the Voice over the edge with this problem. Let him earn his pay, he does get paid doesn’t he?”
Now it is Hal’s turn to laugh. “What about your grandmother you keep telling me how she seems to know everything?”
I nod absently “this may even be beyond her.”
Hal kisses me stroking my hair again driving me to the edge. “Take me now,” I wanted to scream. I end the conversation as mother’s car pulls up in front of the school. “Gotta go,” using my best chirpy voice. Hal waves.
The first thing I do is fire up my PDA. “Voice, Sarah to Voice, we have a problem.”
The distracted Voice answers cautiously with a bit of sarcasm. “Now what there is always a petty problem with you.”
My resolute voice gets to the heart of the matter. “Who won the college scholarship when Sarah was not there?”
The Voice balks scratching his head wondering what this is all about. “I have no idea and I, can’t bother the Boss with this because of the trouble I already caused.”
I scream, “trouble you don’t know meaning of the word yet.”
I remembered Grams' comments when she heard of the gender switch. Then considered all of the angst it presented to she and Hal when the light bulb went off. “It was you who switched Hal and my gender without orders. Is that it?”
Startled the Voice withdraws into a timid tenor. “How did you know?”
“Never mind that just get me an answer NOW!” I demanded. “I will hold on.”
In what seemed like an eternity the Voice returned, “it was a girl named, Claire Wilson.”
I explained the situation finishing with, “unless you want to screw up the Fates as you call them. Claire must win that scholarship We both know Sarah would not have won it and will not likely be here after graduation. There must be a plan for Claire and winning that scholarship is part of that plan.”
The Voice hesitates, “how do you propose we do that?”
Reaching the boiling point I explode on him. “Are you trying to tell me that you can take two senior citizens download them into teenage bodies. Then move the initial occupants to places unknown, but can’t commit simple voter fraud? Come on Voice unless you want me to bring a Cherry bomb to school or something more radical. You will figure it out. You don’t want this whole scheme of your to blow up in your face just when you are reaching success.”
The Voice agrees, “it will be done. The Boss does not like tinkering but I am sure he will overlook this slight indiscretion.”
In my best sex kitten voice I purr, “Mr. Voice?”
“Now what” the voice braces himself.
“While you are fudging the polls, make sure I am not the Prom Queen. Give that to whoever would have won it.”
The Voice laughs, “you don’t want to be the school beauty? You don’t want to be the envy of all the girls?”
Shimmering blue pools sparkle. “I am already the best looking girl in school. I, don’t need affirmation and I’m not entitled. You asked me to get Sarah though the school year. To keep her safe and to establish a firm footing for her life going forward. I did that, perhaps better than I should have. I, don’t know, but in my entire life, or Bob’s seventy years I never did anything with less than my best effort.”
For perhaps the first time the Voice understood, “yes you are right. Trish will be the Prom Queen.
What’s going to piss you off though, Hal actually did win the title Prom King.” The Voice laughs thinking, ‘take that.’
I go into near melt down upon hearing that news. Thinking of Hal dancing the opening dance, as a solo with the beauty Trish boils me. I then laugh thinking ‘at least it isn’t Cindy. No way, am I spilling the beans to Hal.’
Graduation and the Prom were the over riding center of attention through the last month of school. Claire confessed her concern to me once Paul asked her to the prom. “I can’t wait but I have no idea what to do.” Claire said in a soft voice.
“What do you mean?” I asked her concerned thinking something was horribly wrong.
“Sarah, I can’t afford a prom dress like the bitches will be wearing. It will be something frumpy out the Sears catalogue.”
I nod feeling compassion for Claire. “Did you hear about the promotion at the Deb Store?”
Claire shakes her head.
“They are looking for girls to model prom dresses. They get to keep the dress they model for half price. It is this Saturday so get over there after school to apply.”
Claire agrees to try saying, “but they won’t want me.”
My boney index finger pokes evilly. “Girlfriend you are one of the prettiest girls in this school. Cut the crap.”
What I left out was the casting a spell part. It guaranteed Claire’s acceptance and the exact dress the girl wanted. Grams gave me high holy hell because of that damn ripple. ‘What problem is a lousy dress when compared to the problem of the old Sarah?’
Claire had pressed me about my Prom date. I answered in the same way I always did. My parents will not let me date. “I am not going to the prom.”
Claire thought it odd that I took this most important event with such disinterest. Of course to me or should I say Bob. He is the driver of this organism. To him, he could not care less. To accept that easy answer or excuse would be to discount the raging turmoil I was under. Bob is not here any more and I meaning Sarah has just got to go. I don’t want to be a girl. I do not want all the trappings women suffer. I am Bob. So why in hell am I crying my ass off? Why in hell do I have a sudden urge to be held tightly in Hal’s arms?
A week before the big event Hal found himself knocking on the Ryan’s’ front door. Gretchen answered “Hal Sarah is not here.”
“I know” the young man answers. “She told me yesterday on the mountain she would be at her grandmother’s house. I came to see you and your husband.”
Mrs. Ryan widened her eyes, turned to the inside calling, “Martin we have a visitor.”
She motions Hal inside curious to learn what this is all about. She shepherds him to the kitchen table.
Hal decided to get straight to the point as he is suddenly uncomfortable under the parental glare. “You must know how I feel about Sarah.” He begins his certainty starting to fade. Both parent’s brows rise measuring the lad. Hal presses forward. “I want your permission to ask Sarah to the prom. I know you don’t allow her to date. But,” he turns his pleading eyes toward Gretchen. “You, of all people must know how important this is to a graduating Senior girl.”
Martin is taken back by the courage of this young man. He begins to speak but his wife’s hand steadies him. Instead it is Gretchen who answers.
“Hal you go ahead and ask her. I, don’t doubt what her answer will be.”
Martin then took the opportunity to establish his fatherly rules and to strike fear into the heart of any would be gigolo.
Hal breathed a sigh of relief. He said all the proper “I wills, and sirs and madams.” He turned to leave the table when Sarah bounded in. She was wearing her blue letterman’s jacket with the blue letter B. A short cotton skirt and black hose. Hal smiled taken back she was dressed like a girl.
“Hal,” I exclaim what are you doing here?”
Daddy says “Sarah, sit down the lad has something to ask you. Gretchen we have something to do.”
I sit smoothing my skirt satisfied I have become proficient in that act. Yes, I was wearing a skirt. It seems to be happing more frequently. Hal might have something to do with that. I am not going to tell him. I gazed at Hal in wonderment.
Hal blushing says, “Uh your parents said I could ask you to the prom. If you really, want to go with me.”
For some reason I leap into his arms kissing him answering with a resounding, “YES!”
Hal blinks as suddenly I turn hearing mom. Without skipping a beat I plead. “Mom we have to go to the Deb Shop, they are open until nine.”
The night of the prom Sarah stands with Claire as they watch the King and Queen dance a slow dance to some mega ballad.
“Doesn’t that piss you off having to stand here watching Hal dance with Trish?” Claire says with a sharp tone.
I giggle victoriously “I am watching and when his hands rest on her ass then I’ll be pissed.”
Claire breaks out laughing and I am caught up with the levity. I never noticed where Hal’s hands were. It did not matter in the least as we danced the night away. The last dance Seger’s We’ve Got Tonight found his hands on my rear which was perfectly fine with me.
Graduation went smoothly and yes Sarah was the valedictorian and to the surprise of all who attended Claire Wilson received the full scholarship. There was murmuring in the crowd questioning the oddity but there was no challenge.
I expected this result but mom and dad were rather upset. Hal knew all about how I engineered this. He supported me all the way.
“Claire deserved it and I don’t need it.”
Gretchen said “but you applied to the same school and were accepted why aren’t you upset?”
I held my ground “Claire is my best friend she could not go without the scholarship. I can.”
Gretchen turned to Martin when out of earshot saying, “is this really our daughter?”
Martin answered, “not the one we fought with but the one we prayed for.”
A few days later it was time to make a decision. Hal and Sarah walked hand in hand slowly into the park. They had talked about nothing other than this decision endlessly since graduation.
“I am scarred“ I said as Hal tightened his grip on my hand.
There was woman sitting on a bench. The most beautiful woman either of them had ever seen. She was wearing a blue power skirt suit and there was a glow about her. The couple could feel the serenity. The woman motioned them to her. She asked them to sit beside her.
Hal spoke first, “Voice?”
The woman shook her head. “No Voice is not coming he has been reassigned. You did not expect the creator of the universe to be a woman did you? I present as male in meetings with those who do my work. It is something they expect but this is my natural appearance.” Hal smiled as both sat.
The Boss hands us each a folder. “Here are all the possible host bodies. Take your time making your selection. As I promised you will be rewarded for your tremendous work.”
I thumb through the book seeing many possibilities that would satisfy Bob. Hal as well found everything to fulfill all of Megan’s dreams. Then I spoke, “before I choose I have some questions.”
“I knew you would.” Said the Boss. “Ask your questions I will do my best to answer.”
“What happened to the original Hal and Sarah, when will they be returned to these bodies?”
The boss raises a brow before speaking softly. “You did what was asked of you. You provided a stable base for the return of the hosts. But Sarah, your host could not be salvaged.” She turned to Hal. “Because of original Sarah’s grand failure, Hal had to be placed in another form. He too has moved on.”
My eyes widen “what does that exactly mean?”
The Boss responds “You and Megan. I will use your real names now. You are now A3’s. You know what an A3 is thanks to Sarah’s grandmother. You explain it to Megan, Bob.”
I nod noting the confusion on Hal’s face. “You did not answer my question. What happens to Hal and Sarah?”
The boss takes a deep breath. “When you select your new body,” The Boss pauses, “I will sweeten the pot. In addition to the option of a new body you can choose to go straight to Heaven. You can avoid another life here.”
Hal’s eyes widen, “Heaven?” I duplicate Hal’s amazement.
The Boss finishes, “after you make you choice there will be an accident putting an end to your present forms. After all, resolutions have been established for the initial owners of these hosts. They are no longer needed. What is your answer my children?”
I consider for a minute regarding Hal. “May I speak with Hal for a moment?” The boss agrees and I lead Hal to a quiet corner. A few moments later we meet with the Boss.
I begin in my softest voice. I am talking to God after all, soft seemed appropriate.
“The last fifty years of this adventure created a special bond between Hal and I. We discussed this so he knows what I am going to say. Do you realize the living hell my mother went though?”
She clarifies it is Sarah’s mother to whom she refers. “She waged a never ending fight to rescue her daughter from the girl’s reckless actions. She placed herself in peril more than once. I, don’t know how the Creator of the universe regards my mother but to me she is a saint.”
With tears in my eyes I continue. “I cannot reward my mother’s work and unconditional love by deserting her with such pain as she will endure. Boss I must reject your offers and remain who I am.”
I turn to Hal holding out my hand, “thank you for understanding.”
Hal blinks, “you are not letting me down. As usual you are making me very proud. What makes you think I will leave you now?” He leans over kissing me.
The Boss smiles watching this exchange. “It makes my life easier. I, don’t have to come up with new identities and the Committee won’t be barking at me.”
Hal asks “what about the Voice why isn’t he here?”
The Boss shrugs, “I suppose it won’t do any harm to tell you. He finally confessed to me the reason why he changed your sex.” Both Hal and I listen intently.
“You see the Voice wanted to know what would happen if he did that. Sarah was his experiment. It was his desire to be female but retain his present memories. He wanted to know if a fully non homosexual male could survive in a female body.” The Boss shrugs “there is too much of that going around these days. It gets worse when they invent the internet.”
Both Hal and I laugh saying in unison. “The Voice is back on Earth as a girl.”
The Boss nods then issues a warning. “I agree you can stay as you are, however, as this is your last life on Earth you will pass into Heaven as you are. NO changes. I determine that forevermore you are as you are now.” The Boss waves her hands nothing seems to happen. “Look at your finger Sarah Cowles.”
“Cowles” I question then glance down to see both an engagement ring and gold wedding band. Hal is wearing a matching wedding band.
The Boss says, “you are now man an wife under my authority. Until you, go through a wedding ceremony wear the bands around your neck. One more thing the wedding better take place in a church.”
Hal and I both smile. I ask a final question. Can we reach you with the PDA?” The Boss answers, “those contraptions are gone. You talk to me whenever you want. I will listen.” Suddenly the woman was gone.
I turned to walk with Hal. “Any regrets. Are you pissed at me for sticking you with that from Megan?”
Hal squeezes Sarah’s hand laughing. “I was going to make the same offer.” He laughed again.
I crook my brows ”what.”
Hal kisses my cheek, “now you get to keep your promise.”
“What promise I quip” with a gleam in my eye.
Hal whispers as his hand slides to my hip. “The one about having the kids sometime after I figure out how this thing I’m stuck with works.”
I blink thinking ‘we just talked to God how awesome is that?” I smile evilly remembering I completely forgot to tell Hal about the witch part.’