Dress Up Day
By
Julie D Cole
I guess I finally had to give in to mom since every year she’d badgered me to let her choose my outfit for school dress up day. She was certainly excited when I nodded and then uttered ‘OK’ as I left for school and told me that she’d ensure that it was the best day ever for both of us. Furthermore if I entered into the proper spirit she’d spoil me rotten for the whole weekend that followed that would involve a trip to my favorite Fun Park.
At school everybody was hyped up about it since we were pretty much left alone without any intense lessons and lots of chance to play around and make lots of noise. Nobody gave away the details of their costumes and I couldn’t anyway since mom hadn’t decided on my outfit yet and I hadn’t a clue what she’d choose. I just hoped that it wasn’t anything too outlandish or stupid since I was pretty shy and didn’t like to be centre of attention.
By the time I got home I’d had to guess just about everybodies outfit but not one person guessed mine, including me. What a shock it was so I flatly refused.
‘Come on Joseph you promised.’
‘Well I might have promised but that’s not an outfit and no way am I going outside dressed like that.’
‘Come on Joe just try it on for me. I couldn’t resist it and I’ve had my eye on it for weeks. You know that it will suit you. Don’t be frightened it’s for one time only.’
‘Oh yeah. I believe you but thousands wouldn’t. You’ve been wanting me to do this for as long as I can remember and I left all that behind me ever since the guys in my class saw the photos in the newspaper. I’ve never lived it down.’
‘Joseph Alexander that was years ago and most mums I know with sons and no daughter have persuaded their sons to have girly days sometimes. Especially Angela Hornshaw, Jakes mom. She told me that Jake often spends weekends as Jennifer.’
‘Yes and look what he has to put up with at school. Even the girls bully him now and I don’t intend that happening to me.’
‘Come on you spoilsport don’t be so miserable. It’s only a bit of fun and it’s all in a good cause. This year there is even a dance organized by the parents that means everybody can join in after school. I’m looking forward to a dance and to dress up. I haven’t been out for ages and I am getting past it. Come on just try it on for size in case I have to take it back or shorten it. I spend a lot of money on the dress and even more on the boots.’
‘Look mom I don’t mind the boots but couldn’t I just wear jeans.’
‘Well you could but they’re OK for boys but not for young ladies going to their first dance.’
‘That’s it then. I ain’t going to no friggin’ dance dressed like a Shirley and I don’t want to be frozen out like Jake.’
‘I’ll make it worth your while.’
‘Nothing you could offer would entice me to wear those things or that wig so forget it.’
‘Joseph you promised and I’ve spent a fortune today. How about I book driving lessons for you as a special treat since I’m really looking forward to see everybodys faces when we turn up. I can see us now. I used to be the school pinup and I reckon this is my chance to show a few moms why. How about it? Driving lessons?’ starter pack of six lessons with Greg Hant in his coupe.’
‘You’d have to make it ten lessons or no deal.’
‘OK then ten it is.’
‘Plus a car if I manage to pass my test first time.’
‘Come on Joseph that’s going too far. Be realistic.’
‘I am and those are my terms. If I’m going to be the butt of the jokes at school at least everybody will understand why I caved in.’
‘OK it’s a deal.’
‘Done.’
‘Yes I think I was so come on get a shower and let’s see how you look.’
‘Well what do you think.’
‘I look a right muffin in this dress and the boots I like. The heels are a bit narrow but they’re OK. I’ll be frozen stiff in this short skirt. Can’t I wear jeans it’s going to be freezing all week.’
‘Wimp. We manage so why not you? I can borrow a coat from Liz next door. She’s about your size.’
‘You must be dreaming again mom. What if Amy sees me. I’ll lose all my street cred.’
‘Oh you’ve got street cred have you. Growing up are we? Are you chasing after her then?’
‘Not exactly but I think I’d have no chance at all if she saw me parading about in her moms coat.’
‘Do you know Joseph Alexander you’re hard work. Here I am doing things for charity, for a good cause and you keep spoiling the feeling.’
‘OK I give in. No need for the saddo eyes. I’m in.’
‘Well just sign this contract then. Just a minute I’ve got a pen somewhere.’
‘Mom.’
‘I’m joking but it’s about time I got one back at you.’
………………………………………….
‘Well doesn’t that look nice? I couldn’t be more pleased. It’s like having a daughter at long last. Come on Josephine let’s see how you walk in those boots. Not like that you fool. Do it properly or I’ll make you dress like that for a week.’
‘I’m not carrying on if this is what it’s all about. This is just a dress up day at school and nothing to do with me being Josephine.’
‘Well a mom can dream sometimes can’t she? We could have had some great days out shopping. You like it anyway and just imagine what it would be like if you’d have been spoiled rotten. I do envy all the other moms.’
‘Well I’m sorry if I disappoint you. I’m quite pleased to be a boy and I always thought moms liked sons and dads liked daughters.’
‘They do but you must admit you make a wonderful daughter and you’d certainly have the boys chasing after you if you were a girl.’
‘If any come near me at school when I’m dressed like this then they’ll regret it. These are not real so if they try to fondle me I’ll kick them in the nuts.’
‘Josephine Alexander. Don’t you dare. You’d better act like a lady and no bad language if you don’t mind.’
‘Just let them try.’
Mom enjoyed herself prettying me up and commented on my smooth skin and hairless legs. I guess I was lucky in that department. The underwear was a bit uncomfortable but I soon found a way of reducing the discomfort but I’m not sure where it went to. Lucky I suppose considering the shortness of the skirt. That was another thing to consider. How to sit and how to cross my legs. Too many things to remember so I was glad to escape to bed. I had some weird dreams that night. I was made to sit with the girls at school and had to do ballet and tap dancing. I woke up in a sweat and was glad to find I still had the full set when I checked myself out in front of the mirror. Thank goodness the breasts had gone as well. Still in my dream they’d looked pretty good but a bit too big for ballet.
So Dress Up Day arrived. Practice that mum insisted upon had made perfect and she was delighted with her handiwork and the small details like the removal of the hair on my arms, the eyeliner, the effect of the face scrub and beauty mask treatment, the studs in my ears and the manicure. The shoulder bag matched the boots I was wearing.
I was still insisting to be called Joseph all the time she was referring to me as Josephine and then I stopped in front of the hall mirror whilst she went out to start the car. I was pretty hot for sure and was amazed at the resemblance to mom. As soon as she slipped on the wig she’d told me that this was meant to be and now she was certain we’d have lots of fun-time together. “what do you mean mom?’
‘Just wait you’ll see. Us girls are going to have fun.’
I checked the bag for a brush to put in place the stray hairs. Maybe this wasn’t such a bad idea after all and I spoke out softly to myself ‘I can do this.’ I looked like a lot of teenage girls rather than a boy in a dress. Maybe I had a lot of moms’ genes in me rather than dads. Maybe a touch more lipstick would have been better but then it’s not allowed at school. Perhaps I might ask mom to bring some for the dance when school rules don’t apply.
Mom honked on the horn and I hurried to the car slamming the front door behind me. As I sat in the seat and put my legs together to avoid showing all I’d got Amy appeared with her mom and waved. ‘Wow is that you Joseph. Wow you look fantastic. What a change. You’re sure to win first prize at the dance. Mom can I go with Joseph and her mom.’
Her mom? What’s this?
She got the approval so mom insisted we sit together in the back. We laughed and joked all the way to school and I could tell by moms glances in the mirror that she was so happy. Her eyes were leaking a bit and she reached for a tissue.
Amy showed me her outfit under her jacket. She was dressed as a Hooters girl and she certainly had gotten the hooters from somewhere. ‘Wow is that you?’
‘No silly mom loaned me one of her bras and her bust enhancers. They are pretty real don’t you think?’
She took my hand and let me touch her bust. Was I dreaming. ‘I can’t sorry it’s not right.’
‘Don’t be silly Jo it’s OK between girls. Can I touch yours.’
‘She was giggling as she said ‘Are they real? They feel natural.’
‘Amy no they are just some stick on things that mom glued on this morning. We didn’t want them to keep falling out. I’ll take them off later won’t we mom.’
She turned and smiled as she pulled up at the school gate. Then she giggled and reached over to kiss me whispering ‘Not tonight Josephine. Not tonight. - Go have some fun and you can tell me all about it later.’
Dress Up Day- Chapter 2.
By
Julie D Cole
She turned and smiled as she pulled up at the school gate. Then she giggled and reached over to kiss me whispering ‘Not tonight Josephine. Not tonight. - Go have some fun and you can tell me all about it later.’
………………………
Well I had a hell of a day. First of all Amy insisted I didn’t tell anybody who I was, unless or until they recognized me and to stick by her side as much as possible. As we walked into school she nudged me and said to walk properly and not to look like a cowboy who’d just got off a horse.
I’d no idea what she meant but just made a joke. ‘It’s not me Amy honest. It’s these boots.’
It made her laugh and as I looked at her for the first time I realized how pretty she was. She had beautiful eyes and with all the mascara and the false eyelashes she looked several years older. The false boobs helped as well and I felt sure that she’d win the prize at the dance especially since several male teachers were on the judging panel.
‘Come on I’ll introduce you to the girls. Just ignore any lewd comments you get on the way. Let’s run.’
Now that was another experience. The heels on the boots threw me forward a bit so I tried to run on the soles of my feet. A bit girly I supposed but I couldn’t do much else or Amy would have left me standing. It was a relief to get into the entrance hall. I was hoping my wig was still intact and that the glue sticking my boobs on was strong enough. I almost tripped over my bag that had a mind of its own.
Amy turned to me and smiled. ‘Well you did OK. Shall we do it again as an encore?’
‘No chance. How do I look is my wig straight.’
‘Don’t worry you look a little flustered but it hasn’t moved. A bit windswept but we can soon sort that out. You did well. Who taught you to run in heels? Have you been practicing?’
‘Nobody I just did a few practice steps with mom but I guess I had no choice since you left me.’
‘No I didn’t. I’d have turned back but you were doing OK. A natural if ever I saw one.’
‘Thanks that’s all I need. I look like a girl and now you say I run like one. I’ll never live this down when the guys find out. It was supposed to be a joke till mum set to work on me. I’m sure she would like me better as the girl she’d always wanted.’
‘Come on don’t be like that. It is just fun and it’s for a good cause. But I must admit I can see why she’s encouraged you. I think you look better as Josephine, don’t you agree?’
‘I give up. Now you are on mum’s side. I try my best to be as masculine as possible and I can do without this. It is bad enough putting up with comments at gym about how weedy I am and how I have boobs growing.’
‘Have you. Wow.’
‘No I haven’t they are just soft and it’s only because I need to bulk up a bit.’
‘Come on forget it and let me show you of to Kate and Hev. They’ll be amazed when they realize its you.’
We soon found them in the refectory. They were dressed as angels but far from it. They were two of the rowdiest girls at school. Always involved in everything and often hanging around with the more extrovert boys so I’d never spoken to them. I’d watched on in amazement sometimes and was a little surprised Amy counted them as friends. She had always seemed quiet but maybe I misjudged her.
To be honest my disguise didn’t work with either of them but Kate thought I was a girl but not sure who whereas Hev had a feeling it was me but didn’t believe it. Eventually after a few guesses Amy told them and I suppose that I wished she hadn’t. Now I couldn’t chicken out and go home. I had to see it through.
The three of them decided they’d call me Josie for the rest of the day and Kate wanted to play a few tricks so they decided not to let on. They urged me to join in so I accepted.
The first target was to set me up as a dance partner for a pound per dance for the charity and I was to give up my break and lunch to stand at a table in the refectory whilst they promoted the idea and made a list. After a slow start I reached 20 partners always assuming they’d turn up. Especially if my secret leaked out.
The second joke was that I would do a sports lesson with the girls so they arranged for me to take Amy’s place in the netball team using her kit. Luckily not many turned up because it was Dress Up day so I could get changed in privacy. Kate wanted to be the first to tell Laura Rylance at the dance just to see her face when she found out she’d paraded around in front of a boy. Apparently, as I found out later, she was always showing her bust and slim figure to the rest of the girls and often walked around naked. I was shocked and embarrassed when I saw her and she just made a pose when she saw how awkward it was.
The last trick was to take me with them to meet a group of players from the football team and get them all to kiss me and I had to mark them out of ten. ‘No way.’
Then Hev piped up. ‘Come on it’s part of the fun. They aren’t likely to tease you as much if they kissed you as a girl and liked it. Who knows they may even get excited. Drew Taylor can’t control himself so I can’t wait.’
So that was the day set up. Not much time for lessons but then it wasn’t really expected. Mom had said she hoped I’d enjoy myself but this seemed pretty scary and I could even get kicked out of school if things went wrong.
As I said I got quite a list of partners and two were from the football team as I found out later. Just my luck that one was Drew Taylor. He’d paid up front for the dance and made some sexist comment. I almost pulled off my wig until Amy stepped in. I guess he was just showing off.
I thought I looked OK in Amys kit for the netball. I was a bit on the small side but a lot faster than most of the girls so I suddenly became popular. I easily beat Laura Rylance who was more interested in showing herself off to some boys who were leering at us through the fence. I tried to keep towards the other side of the pitch so they didn’t recognize me. The girls didn’t seem to care who I was and later I found out most were in on the joke to get Laura.
I needed a shower after the game and waited for my chance to use one of the private showers that were available for those ‘with a note’ whatever that was.
During afternoon break Kate dragged me off to meet Hev and the lads. They were all bigger than me and most of them fancied themselves. It was easy for Kate to persuade them so she became the organizer and Hev kept the scores. They all took it seriously and so I wanted to run for it but Kate grabbed hold of my arm.
The first kiss was the worst. I was like a stick and Freddie Jewson made sure everybody knew and that he was the warm up for the rest so they owed him.
By the time number 10 arrived I was used to it and knew how to stop them getting too randy. A swift knee might have worked but I just opened my eyes and it seemed to make them feel inadequate. Jamey Baxter was the best of all of them so he said he wanted the last dance as his prize. I remember thinking ‘ In your dreams pal. This girl will be out of the box by then if she has her way.’
By 5pm I was ready for packing in but as Amy said I was to be the star of the show so I had to stay with it. Anyway mom was meeting us for pizzas and to freshen up before the dance that was due to start at 7pm. She looked 10 years younger when she arrived and I was amazed how excited she got as Amy relayed the days events. She was a bit shocked about me changing with the girls but didn’t mind about the kissing competition or the dance list.
‘You see what you’ve been missing. Didn’t I tell you it would be a fun day and it’s only just started really. Let’s tidy you up a bit. Come on let’s go to the bathroom.’
She couldn’t wait to get her hands on me and had come prepared. She applied more make-up and sprayed me with perfume. Then she tidied my wig and turned me towards the mirror. I looked too cute for words.
‘Mom please. I’m not a girl I’m a boy. Can’t we just give this up and just go somewhere quiet instead. I don’t want to go through with it since everything is getting out of hand.’
‘Look Josephine I’ve been out and spent a fortune getting ready for this dance. I have my eye on one of your teachers. I’ve known him for 20 years since we were at high school together. You wouldn’t spoil my chances would you?’
‘Mom you don’t mean Mr. Davies do you? It will be bad enough when he realizes who I am and if he sees I’m your son he might be put off. It is embarrassing and just because you and dad split doesn’t mean you can chase after guys. Especially my teachers.’
She didn’t get chance to reply because Amy chipped in. ‘Come on Josie you can’t let everybody down now. Let’s see if you can dance in those boots and if you dance as well as you kiss.’
How could I resist her smile and those eyes so I just accepted with a nod.
Mom looked at me and smiled like a cat that had just got the cream.
Dress Up Day- Chapter 3.
By
Julie D Cole
Mom looked at me and smiled like a cat that had just got the cream.
……………………………………………………………..
Well somebody had gone to a lot of trouble when we arrived back at school. There were fairy lights everywhere and drapes over the entrance doors and a red carpet out front. There was a big banner over the entrance ‘Welcome to Our First Dress-Up Day Charity Dance.’ The charity group appeared to have representatives welcoming and collecting tickets and some of the guys I knew were acting as stewards to direct cars to the car parking area. One approached us and as mom wound down the passenger window I nearly had a heart attack.
Agghh Drew Taylor!!!!!. He almost clocked me before I sank back into my seat.
I was sure that he’d looked straight into my eyes and seen who it was and for a moment it was like I couldn’t move. Have you ever had that experience? It’s like time stands still and you feel like the person is connected and down loading everything about you and now knows everything. That’s how I felt at that moment. He’s seen me, connected and was now aware that this was not the girl he’d booked a dance with but a scrawny guy who must be a poof to dress like this.
Amy tugged my arm laughing and giggling. ‘Josey it’s him, it’s him. Bloody hell it’s Pervy Taylor directing cars. I bet he’s pointing with his wotsit.”
She made me laugh too that naturally attracted his attention ‘Oh Josie, Amy it’s you I didn’t recognize you at first. Over there ma’am park over there closer to the front. Josie I won’t be long coming inside and maybe we can all have some bucks fizz together.’
Well I was dumbstruck and no sensible words seemed to come out of my mouth so Amy answered. “OK we will see you a bit later. You’re No 1 on Josie’s list. Did you know?’
Amy was nearly wetting herself by the time we moved on to the car park so I thumped her one and said I’d get my revenge.
Mom was smiling too by now ‘Well Josephine you already attracted admirers then? So you are enjoying this experience after all.’
‘No mom not really but sooner or later these mugs are going to realize it’s me and I’m in for a good thumping.’
Amy didn’t agree and anyway she felt I should play safe and hang around with her and her friends next week if I felt threatened. It didn’t sound a bad idea so I nodded and said I’d probably take her up on the offer. At least it was a chance to spend time with her and get comfortable with girls. Better than watching on from a distance anyway.
We avoided Drew on the way in as he was ogling some other innocent arrivees. I bet he pushed everybody out of the way to get this job. A few other guys were hanging around and according to Amy we were clocked as soon as we came into sight and undressed as we passed by so how did it feel to be standing naked in the foyer. I immediately put my bag in front of me as if I was naked and curved my shoulders so I could hide my chest.
‘Ha Ha Josie you have turned into a girl. Just look at you. Now you know what guys want. They just want to undress you or get inside your underwear don’t they Missis Alexander. Ha Ha I think you are a bit on the shy side.’
‘Amy you are awful. But wouldn’t you be if it was your first time out and these gorillas were hanging around waiting to swing down from the branches and do who knows what to you?
‘Monkeys yes but gorillas I don’t think so. These are just boys going through puberty and looking for reaction in their pants. Isn’t that true Missus Alexander.’
‘Well they are only boys I agree and probably they’d never say a word if they were alone. They do tend to hunt in packs at that age. Don’t you do it joseph?’
Oh she called me by my proper name. I was seemingly struck dumb again but managed to shake my head before saying yes.
‘Ha Ha you’re like Satish Gupta. Shaking your head saying yes,yes or nodding and saying No,No. Look there he is over there. Let’s say hello and see.’
‘Come on girls we’re not in yet. First stop is the powder room to make sure we look our best. Satish can wait. We girls have responsibilities. We have to look our best at all times.’
Well that was another experience. I don’t suppose many guys get chance to enter the girls bathroom to check out why it’s a rest area. I didn’t see the attraction of the place since it was just like the mens facility but no urinals. No comfy sofas or wall length mirrors. No curtains or cushions on the toilet seats. Same décor and instead of a quick delivery there was a queue to enter the cubicles and at least a 5 minute wait.
Mom found a spot to place her bag whilst she freshened up so Amy and I latched on to at least get chance to look in the mirror over her shoulder and under her arm as she tidied her hair. I still looked more girl than boy and not much sign of Joseph Alexander looking back at me. I seemed to be just one of the girls and even mum and Amy were ignoring me by now.
Mom was looking quite a bit younger than usual and hard to think she was old enough to be my mom at the moment. My God I hoped she wasn’t going to embarrass me. It was bad enough being dressed like this without any scenes from her if she decide to chase after Mr. Davies. I couldn’t imagine he was much of a womanizer so she’d definitely have to take all the initiative. I didn’t recall whether he was married or not. He looked like he needed a bit of attention and maybe he had the happy life of a bachelor gay. Well not gay exactly since he looked fit and he was a relief sports teacher and wasn’t frightened of getting stuck in at rugger according to those in the know.
‘Come on Josie aren’t you ready yet. Stop fiddling with your hair and just give your lips a freshen up.’
‘OK,OK I’m coming. No need to rush me since I’ve been stood here 5 minutes waiting.’
So out we went to find the place filling up already. What a surprise to see so many people. I’m going to be the talk of the town as well as the school if I’m not careful.
We queued for the free drink. Some bucks fiz indeed. More like fizzy apple juice and not a hint of champagne. Not that I drank much to know. Still it was better than nothing and at least there was a bar for the over eighteens. I might get away with it since at least as a girl I looked older. Funny but I quite liked looking a bit older and maybe it would be one way of getting a drink in town on Saturday nights without being pestered for my birth certificate or identity card. This get up has some advantages after all. I think I’d ask myself out if I thought I’d accept.
Amy dragged me over to her friends and mom started chatting to some parents at the bar. She had found a bar stool from somewhere and decided to sit at the end of the bar chatting to the older students who were given responsibility. I wasn’t sure what they were serving her but at least she would be staying put for a while whilst Amy and I sorted out the dancing with Mrs Bale. She had it all organized, or so she said as we chatted to her, but I didn’t see any sign of a queue for the first dances. There was going to be some sort of award at the end of the evening for the best dress up student and already the lights were being dimmed with the guy in charge of the music starting to make an exhibition of himself. I could never do a job like that.
Amy and Hev started chatting to him and by the impression I got from the nods in my direction they were setting me up for something. I’d only just got comfortable with the situation and already they were pushing the boundaries.
I seemed to be accepted even with him because I was Amy’s friend and whilst I felt awkward at first it seemed like I was not going to be rejected or treated like the specter at the feast. At least all the girls were chatting as if I’d been best friends for ages. It felt nice and I was starting to feel very comfortable. Thinking about it boys aren’t like this. So it was a lesson for me but fat lot of good that would be to the rest of the guys. Nowadays they are so frightened of letting their guard down or showing weakness they’d rather not show anything at all. What was I saying? My God I’m one of them not on the other side of the fence.
We went back to mom. She was quite content chatting to people who came to the bar and Nick Ledgard was looking after her. I really wanted to say something to him but it was like I was trapped since I wasn’t likely to be recognized unless I took off my wig and right now I felt if I did that was the dances out of the window and me having to pay back the money. I wasn’t sure that would be very easy with a broken arm and a black eye and God knows what else.
Mom offered us a drink and for once the words came out without any difficulty. Amy of course not me. I just decided what was good for her was good for me. Blimey wow!!1 ‘What’s in that mom are you trying to get us drunk?’
‘Come on Josie it’s just the one drink to make you more relaxed. You have to show these guys what we Alexanders can do on the dance floor.’
‘Mom I’ll be falling over if I drink this.’
‘Come on Josie you need to relax and what better medication?’
I took another slurp. Wow this makes me feel like dancing.
Then another shock. Mr Davies appears from nowhere and mum looks straight past me as if I’d fallen down a hole. ‘Amy please will you introduce me.’
“mom please don’t. He will find out who I am.’
‘Josie just take a stroll please. Just give me chance to at least introduce myself. I’m not going to hurt him. He looks so nice. Why not just let your mum have chance to chat at least.’
Amy dragged me away from the bar and the next think I heard was my name being called to go across to meet number 1 on the list and the DJ wanted us to start so others would join in.
‘Uggh Gary Winterbottom. He looked as if he had a frozen bum as well when he started dancing. Not one bit of hip movement. I realized that dancing as Josie made me a lot more relaxed. Or was it the drink that mom bought? Who cares I’m up and dancing and at least that’s number 1 dance nearly finished.
For number two dance nobody turned up so the music was stopped until he was found and reported for duty. Oh it was Alwyn Pardrew. Well at least he wasn’t back of the queue when the hunky guy chocolates were handed out. He was much bigger than me and obviously worked out a lot. Wow he could move as well and he wanted to show everybody. Still he was kind enough to keep his attention on me but I almost spewed up when he spun me round and then lifted me over his shoulder and pulled me between his legs.
My god I didn’t know how long I could keep this up. My wig almost came off and my dress rode to the top of my thigh exposing everything I’d got. Underwear I mean not anything else that wasn’t likely to pop out.
‘Please Alwyn. You’re going to make me sick. I’m not used to spins.’
He was laughing and intent on me doing a repeat performance. Here we go Aghhhh. ‘Alwyn please ohhhh. I need a rest.’
‘Come on stranger. Tell me who you are and agree to meet me tomorrow or I’ll buy the next dance from Freddie Fisher.’
‘Aghhhh. Ok Alwyn I give in. I’m Josie.’
‘Pleased to meet you Josie. Josie who? Where you from.’
Please Alwyn let me rest and sit down over there with you and I’ll tell you who I am.’
Dress Up Day- Chapter 4.
By
Julie D Cole
Please Alwyn let me rest and sit down over there with you and I’ll tell you who I am.’
…………………………………………………………..
What was I doing? Was I crazy? I just danced with him and somehow I hadn’t showed myself up. I guess some steps were all over the place because I’d tried to take the lead a few times. But he just pushed me back and as the twirls started I was clinging on for my life.
‘Where did you learn to dance Josie you did OK.’
‘I only had lessons in the school hall when we were forced inside due to bad weather. I’m useless really.’ In fact due to absence of girls I’d taken the girls dance role more than the boys and it had been noted by the teacher who singled me out to help the guys with no idea. I guess that was what made me fight this dressing up game since I’d been in danger of being tagged as a Shirley.
‘Well you should come to Latin dance classes with me sometime and dance to some hot music. I need a partner since mine has broken her ankle. Did you ever dance Latin?’
‘No I was just a waltzer and we all had to learn the usual basic rubbish even though we never use it.’
‘It’s a great way to keep in shape. Won’t you come with me next week and I’ll get you enrolled to the advanced beginners class so we can dance together.’
‘Thanks for the offer Alwyn. Do you mind if I let you know later since I’m not sure if I can commit.’
‘Sure I can be patient but I promise you’ll love it because I felt something natural about you when you danced. You picked up on my moves.’
‘His moves meant the gyration of his hips as he was showing off to the girls. I didn’t mind the dancing but he was a bit extrovert and I was trying to hide not expose myself so to speak.’
‘So come on Josie, where you from? I haven’t seen you around.’
‘I haven’t been around much since mom had a bad time and they let me study from home. I class with Amy over there and as you can see she’s likely to chase me soon to dance with Freddie.’
‘Soon fix that. Hang on I’ll be back.’
He dashed across to Amy and Freddie and I saw money changing hands. Wow amy put in in her purse. I thought he was paying Freddie.
‘OK all fixed. You’re mine for the next dance and maybe another later if Amy can fix it.’
‘What do you mean? Did I see you just pay Amy.’
‘Yes I persuaded her to dance with Freddie and he was made up. She’s a good sport. He’s happy, Amys happy. How about you?’
‘Do I have a choice in this? Aren’t I just the prize?’ I tried to turn him off a bit but he just came back stronger. He really was the pushy type and I didn’t have much of a chance since this was like being trapped in a hole with no way out. What else could I do.
The music was lively again and poor Amy had no chance with Freddie Fisher. He didn’t have a clue. Not that I had much chance once Alwyn got back into his stride.
The heels of my boots were starting to creak a bit. Or was that my knees?’ He was determined to show his skills and also with his tight cut trousers he was showing something else. Wow he couldn’t be that big could he? Surely not? Mine was nothing by comparison. I must have been staring because he did an extra gyration. He pulled me close for a few steps and pushed into me holding me behind so I couldn’t draw back. It was him alright since it moved. My God this day was getting worse.
I was out of breath at the end and he was grinning broadly. ‘See we make a great team. You just need to let yourself go and let us connect and you’ll be a star.’
Amy rescued me before he had chance to follow up and he withdrew. Before he left he turned and pressed a card into my hand with his address and mobile number. ‘Call me please if we don’t get chance to dance again tonight and I hope you’ll take me up on my offer.’
Then he was gone. ‘Josie you have clicked. Wow he is a real hunk. He’s all over you so what you doing together. Are you seeing him again?’
‘No. He asked me to join his dance school and learn Latin dancing. He said he lost his partner but I think he was just trying it on. Anyway what about the bribe you took to let him dance with me. What friend are you?’
‘Sorry Josie but he can be persuasive. The ten pounds helped of course.’
‘Ten pounds. Ten Pounds for you to dance with Freddie Fisher?’
‘Well I suppose it was but he insisted we share it so half is for you.’
‘What about the charity fund?’
‘OK we’ll put the pound in and share the rest. Is that OK?’
‘if you say so.’
We took a break which I needed. ‘Amy I think the heel is going to break on my boot if anybosy else swings me about. What can I do?’
‘Can’t you just go barefoot?’
‘Not with these guys and there big feet.. I doubt there are anymore like Alwyn.’
‘Oh you noticed then?’
Lucky mum turned around and hugged us both. ‘Well done you two. Did you here me cheering and whistling?’
‘Mom you weren’t whistling were you?’
‘HaHa no I’m teasing. But I was applauding. Where did you learn to dance you made me proud but also very jealous. You’re father was a natural. You must have his dancing genes.’
‘Right now I’d settle for his dancing jeans.’
We freshened up and I managed to secure the wig. Mom had spoken to Mr Davies and he’d promised to see her later for a dance so she’d made an impression after all.
‘Mom I don’t think these boots will last. The heel is creaking.’
Amy had a bright idea and shot off. She was back before mom had paid for the spritzers she ordered for us. ‘Here try these.’
‘I can’t dance in those they are womens shoes with heels. I’ll break my ankle. Anyway I never danced in heels before.’
‘Ah but have you worn heels before Josie Alexander?’
‘Well I guess I have but….’
Dress Up Day- Chapter 5
By
Julie D Cole
‘Ah but have you worn heels before Josie Alexander?’
‘Well I guess I have but….’
……………………………………………….
‘But what?’
I had to react quickly ‘ Erm but not for dancing.’
‘Oh so not so sure. Out of interest just when did you wear them then?’
Amy chipped in before I had chance to reply. ‘With me Mrs Alexander. We used to play dress-up. Sometimes we’d be sisters and we both used to wear high heeled shoes. Not always though. Sometimes we were girls and sometimes we were boys. But Joseph always looked more like a girl than if I tried to look like a boy. When we were both girls I taught him how to walk in shoes with high heels. I had to teach him to take small steps and he soon got the hang of it.’
‘When was this and where did you get the shoes?’
‘ I suppose we’d only be about 10 years old and we always used mums shoes until she told us off one day for using her best ones. We were outside in the driveway and Joseph tripped up and broke the heel. But that wasn’t all. Do you remember when he came home with plasters on his knees and a bump on his head and he had to go to hospital for a check up? That was the day his heel broke and if he hadn’t been hurt we’d have been dobbed to you by my mom.’
‘Oh my and I thought you’d been hurt by tripping over your shoelaces playing basketball. And Liz never even mentioned it even at the hospital.’.
‘well she knew we’d been playing dress up and at first mum didn’t realize it was Joseph. She thought it was Katie Fisher when she came outside until she looked more closely. Joseph really did look like a girl that day so mum was concerned in case you’d be upset. So we had to help him to change quickly and so that was another problem. We ruined one of mums skirts with the blood from his grazed knees.’
‘I don’t know you two, it was a stupid thing to hide it.’
I know and mum was furious but to this day she didn’t want to say anything to you because she knew Joseph was worried about what you might say.’
‘I am here you two, if you don’t mind…. I didn’t say anything at the time because I was too embarrassed and I kept clear of Amys mum for ages after that in case she said something.’
Amy chipped in again bless her. ‘Well Mrs Alexander I had to stay in for a week after that as punishment but at least we didn’t split on him.’
‘So why the fuss when I encouraged you to dress as Josie if you’d enjoyed yourself playing with Amy? You led me to believe you didn’t like to dress up today and all the time you’d done it before. No wonder you took to the boots so easily.’
‘Yes mom but when we were playing at Amys house I only ever wore shoes two sizes too big and I was just pretending. I never really walked far or danced in womens shoes until today. My feet are killing me.’
Mum thought about what I’d said and then just smiled. ‘Well now you know what we girls go through. It’s not so easy to be a young lady is it? Anyway you can’t stop now after so much success. Now you’ve got shoes that are more appropriate for dancing you might find your feet are OK. Heels certainly bring out the shape of your legs. Just walk back and forward and let me see if you will be safe in them. We don’t want you breaking an ankle do we?’
‘ Mum don’t fuss please. I’m OK and it’s not that difficult surely. I think that at least the shoes fit better than your old boots did and are narrower so they fit the shape of my feet.’
‘Yes just look at you. I’m so glad you agreed to dress up today and told me what really happened . I think you look so cute and today I feel like I have a daughter as well as a son. I hope this isn’t the last time you will let Josie come out. What do you think Amy?’
‘I agree. It’s great to see Josie enjoying herself and whilst I like him I think I’d like to be friends with Josie too. I need a new best friend since my friend Jenna has moved away. Nobody to hang around with at home in the evenings and so no chance to flirt with the boys.’
I wasn’t sure about this so I had to say something. ‘Come on you two don’t turn this into a permanent arrangement. Anyway what do you want to chase boys for when I live next door? It’s embarrassing to hear So I’m OK as a girlfriend but not under consideration as a boyfriend. What’s wrong with me as a boy? Am I a freak or something?’
‘Nothing wrong at all. It’s just you seem more natural as a girl and you have such nice features. I wish I had a nice nose like you and your mum instead of looking like my dad. He is gross and one day I’m going to have an operation to sort it out.’
‘Come on Amy you are very attractive and you have a great figure. Look at me. Nothing on top and far too skinny for a boy of my age. I look a right weed at school and I can’t build up my muscles whatever I do.’
‘You are a bit on the fragile side and maybe it makes you a bit shy around girls. I always said you were cute when you used to dress up with me. You see now that your figure is more suited to girl clothes than boy clothes. Maybe you should let me help you re-style yourself and be more inventive or unique. How about neutral sex?’
‘Neutral sex? Does that mean I’m neutered sex? ‘
‘No it doesn’t but that depends on you.’ It just means neither sex not no sex.’
I whispered to Amy to avoid embarrassment in front of mum who was distracted for a moment as Mr Davies was saying a few words of thanks. ‘Thank goodness because I’d hate to miss out if the chance ever came my way.’
When mum landed back I carried on ‘ Anyway I intend trying to bulk up even if I have to take medication. I don’t like to be called names at school and I long for the day I can punch the bullies on the nose.’
It made Amy smile because she knew that I was just dreaming and she also quietly said that I’d never be bullied if I dressed like this for school. The guys would be too busy trying to get into my panties.
‘You didn’t tell anybody at school about our days dressing up did you?’’
‘Well I suppose I did tell a few close friends but I swore them all to secrecy. It’s no big deal and most of them suspected something was different about you anyway.’
‘All? How many is all? What do you mean by most of them? Did you tell half the school?’
‘No I only told two or three and you already know them. That’s why they chat to you so easily. They treat you as one of us rather than as one of the guys trying it on. Didn’t you realize?’
‘Amy. I feel so awkward now. They are all here I suppose and I bet they are all laughing at me and thinking I’m liking this.’
‘Well to be honest they are all made up and quite jealous. Besides you can’t say you haven’t enjoyed yourself today. You have been completely at home and as the day wore on it was noticeable how comfortable you became. It’s not fair that boys can’t dress as they like. I think you’d really like to have the choice. Wouldn’t you?’
‘No I would get beaten up and become the butt of all the jokes.’
‘OK that’s enough. Talking of butts let’s go show ours off a bit. Come on Josie let’s get back to the dance floor. Just look at the queue that’s building up for a dance with you.’
‘Oh No!’
‘HaHa it’s not a queue to dance with you it’s the queue to vote for the best dress up and since you look like one of the girls rather than someone in a costume I suppose nobody thinks you bothered to dress up. I suppose at best you looked like a cow girl. We should have got you a hat and a gun.’ Maybe we should have persuaded you to wear something a little more provocative and given you bigger boobs.’
‘Come on before you get any ideas. These are big enough thank you very much and it’s a good job they aren’t real and I can hang them up when I get home. Let’s get the rest of the dances out of the way as quickly as possible and then I can get out of these clothes and back into trousers.’
Amy led the way as we crossed to the table we’d been using. Some smart Alec and made a sign ‘The Dancing Queen’ table and placed the diary with the list of dancers who paid for a dance and there was a red circle around Alwyn and a message. “Keep practicing and when I think you are ready for the next stage I’ll be back!!!” He had crossed out all the other names and as I tried to hide the message Amy pushed me away.’
‘My God Josie this is getting hot. I’m quite jealous and you might need to let him down gently if he reappears and pass him over to me. I could deal with him if he is hot for it. Just as a favour of course’
I hit her with my purse. ‘cheeky monkey he’s mine and you can only have him when I’m finished.’
We were still laughing when up popped the next guy on the list. It was Martyn Forrester. Fozzie as he is known. All legs and arms so he looked like he was going to be a challenge.
‘Hi Josie. I’m Martyn. Can I have the pleasure of the next dance?’
OMG a gentleman. Was this a set up? Did he know? I looked around but he seemed serious as he took my hand. I managed to respond ‘Have you paid?’
‘Yes I paid earlier.’
‘OK the just the one if you don’t mind and please mind my toes since I only have the one set.’
Oh I made him smile. I supposed he was OK but he was a lot taller than me even in my heels. My oh my it made me feel like I must be a dwarf and if I’d been in a dance queue with a girl like me I might run away.
He did OK afterall. At least no sqashed toes and no bruised shins but not a patch on Alwyn. Now I realized I was not such a bad dancer and I could follow a good partner much better than I could lead. But I was not so good with a guy with two left feet or who I needed to lead. I was finding myself wanting to lead rather than follow with Martyn like I had with others. All except Alwyn who had taken complete control. I guess that had been a memorable experience for me and maybe he was still around somewhere.But maybe I should get rid of such thoughts and dance with Amy to hold on to my masculinity.
She did another mock applause as I returned to base. ‘Well you certainly took to the shoes like a duck to water. Not a wobble in sight and they do wonders for your wiggle.Pity you weren’t wearing them earlier when you were dancing with Allie. Then we would have seen his body movements.’
‘OK OK calm down. I didn’t attract him all that much. I didn’t did I?’
‘Don’t worry sister I’m certain he’ll be back for more. I might just give him a call and let him know you have the hots for him.’
‘Don’t you dare. He didn’t give you his card as well did he?’
‘Well as a matter of fact I am on a commission if I can arrange something. His out of one of the dark corners looking for another dance and flexing his muscle again. Anyway the number is easy to remember so no need to enter it in my mobile.’
‘I don’t believe you. It’s another tease.’
‘Check the card he gave you then. Next time you look at the key pad on a house phone just press the letters ‘BIGBOOBS’. We can check if you like. I know that I am right. He told me.’
‘I don’t know. Are you sure? Did he really?’
‘Lets go to the bathroom if you don’t believe me and check the desk phone in the hall.’
‘OK OK I believe you but don’t you dare call him. What if he does turn up again I can’t let him see me again like this.’
‘Well he sure ain’t going to dance with you if you change and you would look a bit silly smooching together.’
‘Amy please. This was a one off and after the last dance I have to let everybody know it’s me.’
If you say so but why spoil it for the guys who enjoyed dancing with you? Why spoil it for your mom and most of all why spoil it for yourself. You’ve enjoyed today I can tell. How about we dance come on it’s Girls just wanna have fun.’
Suddenly I was sucked into a group of girls dressed as cheerleaders. They all looked fit and it was difficult to see if their curves were natural or packed out a bit. I was trying to hang onto Amy who was pushed aside and had to let go. I was made to join in and I didn’t have much choice in the matter.’
I didn’t know where to look. It felt strange to be dancing in a group like this but at the same time it was fun. There was a lot of laughter and more and more people came onto the dance floor.
The lights dimmed and Amy seemed to be moving further away from me as first one and then another of the cheerleaders pulled me to dance with them. They must know or why the attraction?
Amy was waving and then she pointed towards the stage and I looked across. Mum and Mr Davies were dancing together. Mum was doing OK and she looked happy. Maybe some good was going to come out of the day. It wasn’t as embarrassing as I thought it might be.
I shut my eyes and let my body move to the music. Dancing in heels was having a nice effect. But I overbalanced since I was nudged on the crowded floor. I reached out and grabbed onto an arm but I was still falling. Before I hit the ground someone grabbed me and I held on for dear life to avoid showing tomorrows washing. Then I struggled to my feet saying thanks and turned around. As I looked into the face of my savior I recognized the broad smile.
‘I think you need a little more practice Josie. Can I take you somewhere where there is more space to dance?’
‘I think you need a little more practice Josie. Can I take you somewhere where there is more space to dance?’
………………………………………………………………………………………
‘Oh Alwyn thanks. I’m sorry I over-balanced. I guess it’s these shoes and the size of the heel.’
He held my right arm as I checked the straps hadn’t broken and the heels were still intact.
‘Everthing OK Josie? No damage done I hope?’
‘No thanks Alwyn I feel a right idiot. Lucky you were around to distract attention and at least I could get up without falling over again.’
He was looking at me and I felt mesmerized again. Had he seen through my disguise now and did he recognize me?
‘Now I know who you are. It’s amazing. I just realized who you are. It’s you Joseph isn’t it? Bloody hell it is you. That’s a wig, come on I know it is because it’s slipped. I knew there was something different about you.’
I wanted to die. There I was now trying to straighten the wig and cover myself up at the same time because my dress had ended up almost at waist level I pulled it down dress straight covering my panties. Thank goodness nothing fell out. Not that that would have caused much of a fuss.I think some real girls have more protrusion than me from what I’d seen earlier in the day.
By now Alwayn was looking directly into my eyes and then up and down from head to toes to examine me more closely. I feared I was about to get a swift smack around the ear and worse still in the stomach. I tried to free myself from his grip on my arm. Not that he was hurting me but at that moment I thought I’d be better out of arms reach. He didn’t readily let go and moved down my arm to hold my hand. I was still in punching distance.
‘Let me help you Josie or should I reall call you Joseph. Come on spill the beans and don’t worry I won’t hit you.’ A broad grin came across his face and I was relieved. ‘Oh Josie what a pity. I thought I’d found a partner at last with potential to go all the way.’
‘what do you mean? No way I would have gone all the way. What sort of girl did you take me for?’
‘No I meant all the way dancing. With a real woman who has the right moves and can follow me we could enter competitions. Damn just my luck. I find someone like you and it all turns out as a hoax.’’
I must have looked stupid with my mouth open wide catching flies. ‘I’m sorry to disappoint you Ally it was only a bit of fun and it just went a bit far. I couldn’t stop myself and I’ve never danced with anybody before like that. Sorry will you forgive me? I can’t see how you felt I was a good partner since I am a novice in heels and have no idea if I could dance like you think I can. I never had a lesson in my life. ’
‘All the more reason to be disappointed. You were pure raw talent that I’d have enjoyed coaching. Anyway there is nothing to forgive. More fool me since it is dress up day after all. Anyway Josie, if you don’t mind me calling you the name you are dressed for, you really look amazing. I didn’t see any other girl like you who switched me on from the moment I saw them. Are you sure you are a guy and not a woman who dresses as a man?’
‘no, yes, no I mean yes I’m sure that I am a man I have the equipment and all that. I never tried to fool anybody and it was mum and Amy who persuaded me to dress like this.’
‘Well Josie all I can say is that you’re bound to win the prize so good luck. I just wish you could stay like this and I’d have liked to really get to know you.’
‘well Ally if you must know I certainly could be more happy than I ever expected if you were around and it really was fun to dance with you. I was looking forward to our next dance together.’
‘Well c’est la vie. Blast it’s a real shame. Just when I thought things were looking up again.’
‘What do you mean?’
‘Well I broke up with my girlfriend who was a good dancer and then I never kept a partner after that. My girlfriend and I were friends for a long time but she got into trouble after a one night fling and got herself pregnant.’
‘well at least wouldn’t have happened to me.’
He smiled and turned to go.
‘Wait Ally please. Don’t go I didn’t intend to make a fool of you and I don’t know what came over me. You are a great dancer and I guess I just tried to let everybody see you perform. I thought you were fantastic and I really enjoyed it. I was hoping you’d come back and really wanted to explain to you. We just never got chance since everything happened so quickly. I was just going to finish off the dances on the list and try to find you. At least I’d have called. Stupid thing is I thought I might have been exposed before now. Most of all I thought you’d have guessed as I was so clumsy and nervous.’
‘That’s the point Josie you were only nervous at first but you soon relaxed. You quickly picked up the rhythm and followed me as well as any of the girls I’ve danced with. I just wish you were who I thought you were because you were great and also if you don’t mind me saying you turned me on. I felt certain I’d persuade you to come to classes with me.’
‘For sure I would. How could a girl resist? You made me feel like a girl more than anybody today. So I’m sorry Ally. Really sorry for being such a disappointment. I guess it’s the story of my life. I suppose it’s time to stop and take off these things. I want to just crawl away and hide.’
Then Amy appeared. ‘Hi you two what’s wrong?’ She put her arm around my shoulder and I just wanted to cry as Ally turned and walked away without even saying a word.
‘What’s wrong Josie, what’s wrong? Has he done something or hurt you?’
‘No. I feel so stupid. I fell over and he came to my rescue but I guess this stupid wig slipped and he realised I wasn’t Josie at all but me. Now he’s gone and we are both embarrassed and I feel like I owe him.’
‘Well that’s fine isn’t it? You have been saying you wanted to get out of those things most of the day so has something changed?’
‘No not really but I must admit that it’s not been so bad as I thought. I just don’t know I’m going to live this down and Ally will probably never speak to me again. How can we talk to each other if we meet? He’d think I’m gay and I’d hate to embarrass him in front of any of his friends. But I liked him. I liked him as Josie and now I’m all confused. Oh Amy what’s wrong with me?’’
We hugged. ‘Josie, I can tell by the look on your face that you are disappointed. This has been great so don’t let it spoil the rest of our night. He’s a great catch for somebody and he will soon be out there trying to pick up someone and whisk them off for a quick grope and to get his snake out.’
‘No Amy he isn’t like that. He’s above that. He was really disappointed and he was interested to find someone to go to dancing classes with. I wish I could have been the one. I really do. Why am I like this? He made me feel different and I still feel different when I think of the look in his eyes. If he’d tried to kiss me I don’t think I could have resisted. Am I gay or is it Josie that’s taking over my head?
‘Who can say. It’s just attraction between people and we are all human. You obviously like him.’
‘Yes I do and he is going to be a credit to this school one day. I can feel it. Not like me the school muppet. I would like to see him really dance with a good partner. It would be good to see if he finds someone.’
‘I think he found someone but time will tell.’
‘Don’t be silly Amy. I have to get him out of my head so come on let’s finish what we started. Let’s go have some fun. Come and dance with a muppet.’
‘Come on Josie you’re no muppet I can assure you. Well not any of the characters I’ve seen anyway. You’re certainly no Miss Piggy. Too much style for that.’
‘Thanks Amy you’re a great friend. I don’t feel like a pig or a frog for that matter when you’re around.’
‘Good’
‘I feel a real toad though after hurting Ally. HaHa a real live toad who found a prince. Good job he didn’t kiss me and a boy appears. Come on let’s get going. Then I can keep an eye on mum and Mr Davies at the same time.’
The next hour was hectic as the music got more lively and the more I danced the more that I wanted to dance. None of the partners were great and so I found myself compensating. I didn’t see Ally anywhere as much as I looked around. I wish he’d stayed. Why did I have to fall?’
Then the slower dances started and luckily I’d just finished the last on my list with all the money collected. Mum came over and held my hand to lead me to the dance floor.
‘I’m so proud of you Josie. You have been the daughter I always wanted today and it’s been wonderful to watch you laughing and having so much fun at long last. I never saw you smile for a long time and you have such a beautiful smile. You remind me of me at the same age. What would I give to go back and do it all again. It’s great to have a son but nice to have a daughter too. I hope we can do it again.’
‘Well I have enjoyed myself but I hurt someone along the way I’m afraid so it wasn’t all upside. He recognised me when I fell.’
’
‘Never mind it’s not like you were deliberately deceiving anybody is it. Have you noticed anything by the way?’
‘No what? Who is it? Where is it?’
‘Have you noticed that you are letting me lead and you are following?’
We both stopped and started laughing. I guess I hadn’t seen mum laugh like that for a long time too.
‘How about we have a girly weekend and bring Amy and her mum along too? Are you up for it young Josie Alexander? Who knows we might also book some dance classes together. I heard there’s a great place close by looking for talent like us.’
‘I guess I could be persuaded.’
‘Josie Josie quick, come on hurry up I just heard that you won a prize!!’
Dress Up Day – The Follow Up
By Julie D Cole
Josie managed a weak smile to Amy as she pulled herself together but her eyes were searching for Ally as he seemed upset that he’d been deceived. She saw him disappear through the main exit without looking back and finally Amy took hold of her shoulders and got her full attention.
‘Did you hear me Josie, I heard that you’ve won a prize. Hev overheard somebody talking to the announcer. Something about a special prize to you and Ally for best dance couple. Where is he?’
‘He’s gone. He stopped me from falling and my stupid wig slipped. He recognised me. I don’t think he’s very happy.’
‘Really, That’s hilarious he will never live it down. But he fell for you and why not? It’s supposed to be a fun day and nothing serious. You never tried to trick him. Did you?’
‘No. Well not really. I suppose I could have told him but I was trying to recover from swirling around and to be honest I couldn’t make my mind up if he was just playing around and was doing it as a bet or something.’
‘Oh yeah. Pull the other one. I saw you looking into his eyes. Why do you think he was there to save you when you fell. You hooked him.’
The music stopped and the girls checked to see that I was OK. I could see mum and Mr Davies in front of the stage with a group of teachers. He was holding her hand and she was leaning into him. Amy had noticed too and giggled. ‘Looks like mum hooked her guy too. Must run in the family.’
‘Look Amy I can’t carry this on any longer. I’ve been stupid to come to the dance like this and deceive everybody today. I just got caught up in all the excitement and enthusiasm. I suppose I liked all the attention and I was surprised at how many people assumed I was a female student.’
‘Yes a lot of girls asked me who you were and what you were doing at our school. Some of the boys did too,;
‘Amy look please I need your help for me to get out of this outfit and remove the make-up. I’ve got some spare sports gear in my locker outside. How do I get this make-up off?’
‘You don’t without doing it properly at home. Just play along for a bit longer and just take the wig off when you collect your prize. Then let everybody see it’s you and how you fooled them. You’ve nothing to be ashamed of, it’s only dress up.’
I followed her advice and calmed down by the time that the music stopped and our headmaster took over the microphone to thank everybody for a successful day. I couldn’t really leave anyway as everybody stopped whatever they were doing to pay attention and Amy grabbed hold of my hand and held on tight.
He made a short speech and quickly handed over to Mr Davies and Mrs Bale, the gym mistress, who had been supervising the netball game earlier. Mum was looking around for us and she smiled and waved.
Mr Davies opened an envelope to announce the prize for the best costume based upon students voting. Neither Amy or I had voted so which students were they? I was nervous in case Amy was right about me winning and I was about to be pulled up on stage. Relief. The best female went to one of the school hockey team who was a Madonna impersonator with conical breasts, making a point I suppose. Much to my relief the best male prize then went to a classmate, Danny Webster, in a fat suit with a balding head cap dressed as Danny DeVito. He didn’t need much padding really and he was always playing around and not embarrassed about his size and plumpness. Amy smiled and said not to worry I might have won the booby prize.
Then Mr Davies took the mic again and said there had been another prize awarded by the charity committee because of the splendid turnout. A Dress Up Day award for the best effort on the dance floor and the support for raising over £25 by dancing with a variety of partners. Mr Davies called out Allys name and his guest. Amy dug me in the ribs and said it was me. It went quiet as everybody looked around for Ally and after what seemed an age he appeared at the side of the stage and climbed the steps to receive the applause. He took the mic and said the fund raising was not his achievement and he looked around to beckon me to join him. ‘This was the real winner my partner Josie who’d never danced before tonight.’
I was totally embarrassed by now and the girls pushed me forward towards the stage to be met by Ally who took my hand to help me up the steps in the heels. He didn’t let go of my hand and took me centre stage to enjoy the applause.
Then he spoke again. ‘Please everybody what is also amazing is that this was my partners first time dancing in heels and I was so impressed I asked her to join our dance classes as my new partner.’
I saw mum clapping with a lot of enthusiasm and Amy by her side.
‘Please everybody. I never got an answer and then I found out why. I’d been besotted and completely fooled by the real star of our Dress Up Day who is not really my guest she is a fellow student. May I introduce you to Josie otherwise known as the one and only Joseph.’
I froze again then removed the wig. There was a cheer then more applause. Ally took hold of me and hugged me. He whispered ‘Just my luck. You were perfect. So beautiful too.’
It was all over. Or was it?
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The dance didn’t finish late and of course everybody was well behaved because there was no alcohol on sale. Some boys had smuggled in a few light beers and were pretending to be drunk showing off to the girls as the final dances took place. I became centre of attention although the boys kept a safe distance. Several female classmates came over full of admiration and I gave all the credit for my transformation to mum who joined us and gave me a big hug. Mr Davies was attached that was nice to see and he shook my hand. Amy said I did a little curtsy and laughed but I know she was just joking. I wished Ally had joined us so I could explain everything but he’d disappeared again.
We all went our separate ways and Amy and I waited patiently outside the main entrance whilst Mr Davies escorted mum to the car park to collect their cars. She seemed so happy to have connected and I was so pleased I’d helped by agreeing to dress up and creating the opportunity for her.
Amy was full of chatter and was desperate to know if I’d be contacting Ally and letting him meet Josie again. I kept shaking my head and insisting this was a one off but she wouldn’t let it go and it carried on all the way home. She tried to involve mum but mum just smiled and said it had been nice to have a daughter and maybe she’d come out again sometime on special occasions. I just said maybe but not to hold their breath.
We ensured that Amy was safely indoors after a hug and she kissed me and whispered that she hoped I’d meet up again soon and maybe do something together. By now I’d stopped reacting and just said thanks to her for all her support and how I’d really had a good time and didn’t mean to be grumpy.
Mum insisted we sat and had a milky chocolate drink together and she wouldn’t let me remove my wig. She was so happy that she’d met Gwyn, Mr Davies and they’d agreed to have dinner together. He told her that he was forever in my debt for agreeing to follow mums advice and attend the dance. Now I supposed I had a teacher to watch my back in case boys made fun and bullied me at school.
‘One thing mum before we go to bed. I need to remove this make-up and Amy said I should get you to help.’
‘Of course I will we can do it together in my room if you like.’
‘But mum what about these boobies that seem to be fixed.’
‘Let’s do that tomorrow after you’ve had a long soak in the bath. You can manage for tonight can’t you?’
I nodded and went to my room to change into a t-shirt and shorts. I looked in the mirror at the nipples clearly protruding from a bust under the tee shirt. Even without make-up and a wig I could have been mistaken for a daughter as I said goodnight to mum.
She seemed happier than I’d seen her for several years and she kissed my forehead and said goodnight. I climbed into bed and checked my phone. There were lots of facebook messages and posts from the day and lots of pictures included shots of me. The girls were complimentary and boys less so but still quite positive. At least I hadn’t upset anybody.
Well possibly I’d upset Ally. I thought I’d better text him at least so I didn’t feel so bad. I just thanked him for the dance lesson and thought that he had realised I wasn’t a girl and had been dared to dance with me by his friends.
Within 2 minute a reply came back.
‘Not so Josie. I would never make fun of you. I meant everything that I said. It was nice to dance with you. Sleep tight.’