The Flower Girl

 The Wedding

The house this morning is frantic!

The bridal party is here, and everyone is getting ready for the big day.

I’m currently just trying to stay out of everyone’s way, eating my cereal at the dining table still wearing my unicorn nighty!

I feel so out of place. I have absolutely no idea what to do or say!

I’m super terrified that I will get under one of the frenzied lady’s feet and get a scolding.

I mean, the half-naked women running about the place like headless chickens, should be an alluring sight to me, but I find myself more interested in how Jess is.  

She’s glowing! I can see the happiness radiating from her and infecting everyone with big smiles!

Kevin on the other hand, stayed away last night. As is tradition for weddings. Him in his ‘best’ man went off to do whatever they’d had planned.

Obviously, I wasn’t invited…. being the flower girl and all.

I knew Jess could tell it was bothering me last night. I watched him leave the house knowing that it should have been me with him, but Instead, I ended up having my nails painted and my hair washed.

Not how I imagined spending the night before Kevin’s wedding! Not one bit!

Jess’s head bride's maid, Yasmin, was someone I’d met maybe once or twice before. Kevin and Jess introduced us both at a party once.

I think she was interested in me, but I never wanted to do anything about it. She’s was a bit much, even back then.

Come to think of it, I think that might be why we’ve never really talked.

I do kinda feel like I’m living every teenage boy's dream right now though. I keep getting the full view of the half-naked women running about the house.

Sometimes….very much naked!

I have to assume that Jess hasn’t mentioned who I really am. I don’t think Yasmin would have walked into the living room with her breasts out otherwise.

The strangest thing for me is that I’m really finding myself uninterested. My male body would be reacting in very clear and lusty ways.

This girl’s body, not so much. I kinda just felt a little uncomfortable. Kinda making me feel….a guess a little jealous of them….?

Swirling my spoon in my cereal milk, I look down at my flat chest and sigh.

“What's wrong, sweety!?” Yasmin yells out in her trademark bellowing voice.

A little scared by her just immense size compared to me, I look at her like she’s a predator and I’m the prey.

What can I say!?  She terrified me when I was a man, Imagine what it’s like now I’m a little girl!

“I’m….okay,” I answer, not wanting to engage her too much.

Thankfully, Yasmin had now put on a bra but was still not in her dress.

Rumbling over to me, her body bounces and jiggles. Just another reason why I’m so scared of her!

“Good baby girl!” she excitedly yells, pretty much point-blank from my face. “You’ve got an important role today! You better not mess it up Hunny bun!”

“Uh-huh,” I answer, looking up at her in dread.

“Good baby girl!” she bellows, patting me on the head like a dog.

Her fat hands send shock waves down my spine.

I grumble and flap her away.

“Don’t be so moody baby girl,” she gripes, leaning in towards me with a sinister grin. “Jessie has told me how you’ve been a little naughty recently! I want you to know that aunty Yasmin is watching you like a hawk!”

“O….o…okay,” I mumble, as my lips quiver.

“Good, baby girl!” she smiles, standing back up straight. “Just make sure you keep your dress clean, hair neat, and absolutely no backchat! This is Jessica and Kevin's big day. It won’t be ruined by some little girl….okay baby girl…?”

About to answer back, Yasmin’s attention is drawn away from me. The makeup artist needs to do her makeup.

As Yasmin stomps away, I stick my tongue out at her. She’s treating me like a silly little child! I’m older than her for goodness sake!

“Hey, Emily…!” the makeup artist calls over to me as Yasmin stands next to her. “Once I’m done here, it’s your turn, next sweetheart, ok?”

“Yes ma’am,” I answer, giving her a smile.

Yasmin gives me a dirty look, they both turn away.

As they both walk down the hallway, I hear the makeup lady call me a cute kid.  I think I like her already.

Getting down from the table, I put my bowl in the kitchen and scurry to get comfortable in the living room.

I’d been feeling a little more comfortable in my unicorn nighty recently. Even though my little legs are out, I wasn’t in any rush to change.

Climbing up onto the sofa, I sit crossed legged and pull my nighty down to cover my knee’s

Switching on the TV, I reach for my new cell phone.

You see, Jess decided if I was going to go out and play soccer with the boys while I’m like this, I should at least have a phone for safety.

Seeing as we didn’t want anyone to find out about my transformation, we just got me a new phone and number.

I was reluctant at first, but when Kevin pointed out that I could accidentally answer my old cell phone in this girl's body, it made more sense to me.

The cell they brought for me wasn’t the latest model by far, but it did the job.

I mostly used it for watching videos and scrolling the sports scores. Oh, and messaging Justin.

We’d been playing together a lot since the other day. He’s a massive video games fan and so am I!

My wallpaper image on my new cell was even a picture of us both celebrating a goal!

I didn’t even think of that as strange anymore. When I look at the picture of us both, I don’t see a Justin and a young girl, I see me and him.

It’s like when someone says the name Emily now, I respond to it like it’s been my name forever.

Getting comfortable, I see I’ve got a message from Justin.

He’s just asking if I’m wanna play soccer later. I decide to call him.

As the phone rings, I twiddle some hair between my fingers as I wait.

“Hey,” he whispers, answering my call

“Hiya,” I reply. “Why are you whispering?”

“I-I don’t want my sister to hear us talking,” he answers nervously.

“Why not?” I gripe, pulling a sour face.

“Emily….,” Justin complains, not wanting me to make a big deal out of it. “Your….a….girl.”

“So….!?” I sharply reply, feeling a little offended. “What does that matter?”

For a moment, Justin doesn’t answer. I just hear him rustling around. Then after a few seconds, I hear him shutting a door closed in the background.

“If my sister hears me talking to a girl…..I won’t hear the end of it,” he murmurs, desperately for me to understand.

“Oh….” I reply, anxiously twisting some of my hair between my fingers. “I forget how young we are.”

“Huh…?” Justin replies in a confused manner.

“Nothing,” I answer quickly. “SO….you're worried your sister is going to tease you for talking to a girl…?”

“Yeah,” Justin says instantly. “She saw that picture of us both on my phone the other day and she won’t stop saying I’m in love with you!”

“Seriously…?” I question, now nervously twisting my hair. “Dude…we are teammates!”

“That’s what I told her,” he answers.

“Want me to have a word with her…?” I confidently say, knowing I could handle her.

“No way!” Justin groans. “She’d kill me!”

“Well…. too bad I’m busy today huh!?” I sarcastically reply, trying to wind him up.

Laughing, I wait for him to answer.

“Shut it flower girl!” he jokingly replies back. “Go put on a dress or something!”

Twisting the strand of hair between my fingers even tighter, I grin and smile.

“I’ve gotta get my makeup done first,” I answer. “Then it’s time for my dress!”

“Sounds boring,” Justin huffs.

“I know what you mean,” I reply, trying to seem cool.

The silence between us lingers for a moment. I wonder if I should continue talking to fill the void.

Eventually, I hear Justin’s voice crack as he talks.

“E-Emily…,” he nervously mutters. “C-can you s-send a picture to me of you in your dress….?”

“Sure….,” I answer, not hesitating for one moment. “It will make us seem even more like a couple though. Are you sure you want that..?”

“I do!” he replies with glee. “I think you are soo pretty and I’d love to see you in your dress!”

“You do…..!?” I instantly yell, shocked by his comment.

Not really knowing how to feel about Justin's brash behavior, I look around the room anxiously hoping it didn’t mean what I thought it meant.

Does he like me…!?

It has been super cool hanging with him, but that’s certainly not what I should want to happen when I’m transformed like this.

Terrified, my eyes are super wide as I wait for him to answer.

Justin says nothing.

That’s when Yasmin comes bounding into the room once more. The walls almost rumble with the sheer volume of the woman.

“Baby girl!” She yells, stomping over to me. “You need to go get your makeup done right now!”

Desperately waiting for Justin to reply, I don’t immediately acknowledge Yasmin.

That was a big mistake on my part!

“Girl!” she screams, storming over and easily snatching the phone from my little fingers. “You listen to me when I talk to you!”

“Hey!” I Whine, trying to snatch it back.

“Naughty girl!” Yasmin growls, hanging up my call and holding the phone higher than I can reach. “Whoever you were talking to, it can wait! Now get into the other room before I spank your backside!”

I feel the anger welling up inside of me. Tears of frustration had started forming in my eyes as I stare daggers at this evil woman.

“Get!” She hisses, pointing towards the door.

Narrowing my eyes, I give her the dirtiest look I can muster. Yasmin is not impressed!

“Don’t you look at me like that!” she says, gritting her teeth “Such a naughty girl! Your parents must be ashamed.”

Gritting my teeth just the same, I form little fists with my hands. If only I was taller, I’d be giving this woman a piece of my mind.

“Wanna say something baby girl…?” Yasmin smirks, looking down at me. “You should feel lucky Kevin and Jess are such pushovers. I’d never let such a little whore into my home!”

“WHORE!?” I cry out with tears streaming down my face.

“Oh, here we go…..!” Yasmin complains, throwing her head back and looking away. “Bring out the waterworks. That ain't guna work on me…baby girl.”

Sobbing at how nasty she was being, I couldn’t look at her any longer. I dip my head and sob into my arms.

“I saw you…,” Yasmin whispers as she leans down to be at my height. “Playing soccer with those boys. Don’t think you’re fooling me. You aren’t interested in spots….”

Feeling rather scared, I just continue to hide my face. I can feel the tears running down my arms as I press them tightly to my face.

“I know what you’re interested in, little whore,” she continues to whisper, but in a much more sinister tone. “You’re after all the male attention…aren’t you. A young girl like you…it’s disgusting,”

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing from her! Why does she think that!? Why is she being so mean!? I should go tell Jess!

Cautiously lowering my arms so I could see, I then rub the tears from my eyes. I wanted to run straight to Jess and tell her what was happening, but Yasmin was blocking my way.

“Baby girl…..,” Yasmin says cheerfully like she has flicked a switch in her brain. “Don’t think for one second you are going to tell Jess what I’ve said about you.” She continues, smiling down at me.

Wiping my eyes, I look up at her stupid smirking face.

“It’s her big day….baby girl,” she giggles, making it obvious that she’s confiscating my phone. “If you go into that room all upset and weepy, she’s going to get mad at you.”

“N-no….s-she w-won’t,” I whimper, wiping tears from my cheeks.

“Yes, she will!” Yasmin snaps, but then instantly gives me a fake smile. “I heard what you said to her the other day. I know how you made her feel, telling her she’d never be a mother. Do you think she’d believe anything you said after that?”

“She would!” I exclaim, narrowing my eyes as I glare back at her.

“Why don’t you try it then baby girl,” Yasmin smirks, pointing back at the door. “You'll make her all upset on her big day…..”

Frustrated and super angry, I knew Yasmin was right.

Who was I to ruin her morning by complaining about this witch of a woman! The things she just said about me would no longer matter in a few days when Jess gives me the potion to transform back.

Swallowing my pride, I wipe the tears from my face and hop off the sofa. I could see the smug triumphant look on Yasmin's face as I walked past her.

I knew I had to push any negative feelings down and get on with it for now!

“Good little girl,” Yasmin spitefully comments, as I leave the room.

Walking down the corridor towards Jess’s room, I stop to take a moment to dry my eyes. As much as I wanted to tell her how much of a jerk Yasmin is, I knew it wouldn’t help anyone.

That’s when the door opens in front of me. It’s the makeup lady and she gives me a gentle smile.

“Oh, good timing my dear,” she says, opening the door to let me in.  

Loudy sniffing, I wipe my eyes and give the makeup lady a smile.

Walking into the room, Jess is standing at her full-length mirror. She has her back to me and she is wearing a big white puffy dressing gown.

“Take a seat in front of the mirror sweety,” the makeup lady says to be, rustling in her makeup bag.

“Oh, Emily!” Jess turns and smiles.

I’d never seen Emily looking so beautiful! Her hair was picture perfect and put into the most precious-looking bun. Her eyes are absolutely stunning and her makeup was so very lush.

Even though she was just in a dressing gown, I couldn’t stop looking at how gorgeous she is. Kevin is so lucky!

“Wow!” I say, pointing with a smile. “So pretty!”

Instantly she smiles, but she soon points at my face and looks worried.

“Hunny,” she says, kneeling in front of me and looking me in the eye. “Have you been crying….?”

“No,” I answer, turning my head to look away.

I could feel Jess’s eyes burning into my soul. I wanted to tell her at that moment, but I really didn’t want to see her upset and ruin her makeup.

“Emily…?” she continues, moving my face back to hers with a touch of my cheek.

Looking into her eyes, I could see she was worried.

“Don’t worry about her Jessica,” Yasmin booms from the doorway, making us all turn to look.

I glare back at her.

“Oh, why not?” Jess asks. “She’s clearly been crying.”

“You fell and bumped your knee….,” Yasmin says, looking at me with a soulless smile. “Didn’t you….baby girl!”

I absolutely didn’t want this to turn ugly. I saw how happy Jess was a moment ago! How could I ruin that!

Turning to face Jess, I look down at the floor.

“Is this true Emily..?” Jess asks, touching my chin and lifting my face.

“Y-yeah…..,” I slowly answer, giving her a small smile. “I hurt my knee.”

“See,” Yasmin blurts out. “Let's get her makeup done so we can move onto the dresses ladies…. Chop chop!”

Hearing Yasmin shuffles off, Yasmin looks down at me unconvinced. I give her the biggest smile I could muster.

“I’m ok….,” I tell her, placing my hand onto hers. “We should let the make-up lady do my face now, don’t you think?”

“Are you sure you want that…?” Jess asks, giving me a smile back. “I don’t want to force it on you.”

“It’s ok,” I answer, getting onto the chair and looking at my girly figure in the mirror.

Folding my legs, I cover my knees with my nighty.

“I’m looking forward to being pretty for you,” I say, giving her a wink.

Jess grins and gives me a very quick cuddle.

“Thanks,” she says, standing up to allow the makeup lady some space.

I watch them both looking at me through the reflection of the mirror.

“So,” Jess says, looking into my eyes through the mirror. “Nothing too heavy on her. Just light natural makeup. Maybe a little eye shadow to make her eyes sparkle.”

The makeup lady nods.

“See you in a bit,” Jess chirps, giving me a pat on my head and she leaves the room.

For the next thirty minutes, the makeup lady wafts around me, doing this and that to my face. I didn’t want to ask what she was putting on it, she seemed to know what she was doing.

Like the times I’d had my makeup done before, I really enjoyed the attention and the soft brushes on my skin. So relaxing.

Every time I was able to get a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I look at a tiny bit more feminine each time. The mascara and the eye shadow really made me look feminine.

I couldn’t believe how big my eyes are. I’d never really studied my face this much before. If they were any bigger…I’d be a Disney princess!

If that wasn’t enough for me to relax, the hair brushing was going to tip me over the edge!
The lady spent a good ten minutes brushing every single knot from my hair. She did it so gently and smoothly. Such a lovely experience!

“So,” she says softly, continuing to brush. “What are we doing with your hair, my dear..?”

“I think they want it just up in a pretty bun, like Jess’s,” I answer.

“Oh sure,” she replies, putting the brush down and running her hands through my long brunette hair. “Should be an issue. You’ve got very nice hair…y’know.”

Another ten minutes fly past as the lady plats and bounds my hair into a bun. It felt weird at first having so much weight on that part of my head, but after a few minutes, I’d got used to it.

“Seems you’re ready to go get into your dress, sweety,” the lady tells me, gently pushing the last hair clip into my hair. “Just don’t go touching your hair too much. You need to look pretty for the photos!”

“Thanks!” I answer, jumping up off the seat.

Turning to give the lady a big smile, I proudly march by her and towards the door.

Standing at the door, I turn and give the lady one more look. She gives me a cute wink as I look at her.

“Off you go sweety,” she comments, packing up her things. “You don’t want you, mom, to be late now…do you…?”

My mom….? Oh, she means Jess.

“No, I…..don’t,” I reply, giving her a playful shake of my head. “Thanks anyway. I like what you did with my hair!”

Leaving the room much happier than I entered, my mood quickly changed as I knew Yasmin was still in the house.

Making my way into the living room, where Jess has her wedding gown hanging, I prepare myself for the next stage.

Actually putting on this flower girl dress that’s been made for me.

Cautiously entering, I see Yasmin and the other bridesmaid, Alex, circling Jess in the middle of the room.

Alex, I haven’t really spoken to much. We’d never met until this day, but she seemed very friendly. She looked super attractive in that bright red bridesmaid dress.

Her legs are so super long and that hair of hers. It had me feeling a little jealous mine isn't that bright blonde.

As much as Alex was looky so pretty….I had to say I was very pleased to see Yasmin had finally gotten into her dress!

I don’t want to be mean, especially know I kinda understand how much pressure is put on a girl to look pretty, but she wasn’t fitting into her dress very well.

Her chest is absolutely massive! Looks like such a nightmare! I’m glad I’m not dealing with that right now.

That’s when I see Jess in her wedding dress for the first time.

I could feel the pride in me gushing to the surface! She looked like a goddess!

I loved the way the dress formed around her lush curves and the pretty detailing around her waist and chest.

The way the dress also hung from her shoulders, showed so much of her slender upper body. She looked like a model from a magazine!

“Jess….!” I gush, rushing over. “You look so amazing!”

Holding my hands over my mouth to hold back my excitement, Jess looks down and beams a smile.

“You think…?” Jess bashfully asks, going a little red.

I look her perfect figure up and down once more and give her a playful wink.

“Trust me…,” I giggle, “Kevin is going to fall in love all over again!

Looking each other in the eye, we both share a moment. She knows I’m telling her the truth. Being his best friend, I’m so privileged to see her looking like this before him

“Listen to this little one,” Yasmin laughs, pushing me slightly away to help Jess adjust the dress. “I don’t doubt Kevin is going to be thrilled, but listen to her pretending she knows what grown men think….it’s adorable.”

Jess gives me a sideways glance and a smile.

“Emily….,” Alex then calls to me.

I look over and the pretty blonde lady is holding up my dress with a smile.

“Yasmin is going to finish fitting Jess,” she says, waving me over. “Do you want me to help you put on your dress..?

Excited that it wasn’t Yasmin, I skip over to her.

“Yeah please,” I say, giving her a smile.

Touching my dress with my fingers, I could feel how soft the material was. The skirt looked so massive and bulky compared to the torso part. The skirt looked like it was made from several different layers.

Very different from any of the dresses I’ve worn so far.

The dress didn’t have sleeves, just these super-thin see-through purple bits that stick out.

The skirt was also the same color purple as the sleeves. The top part is a bright white. The dress also had a large purple sash across the middle. I guess this will be tied as a bow behind my back.

“Have you got fresh underwear on Emily?” Alex asks, looking down at my nighty.

I look down at my unicorn nighty and shake my head from side to side.

“Jess….?,” Alex calls out. “Is Emily wearing a bra with this dress or just panties..?”

“She doesn’t need a bra,” Yasmin blurts out.

Silence falls over us all for a second, before Jess speaks up.

“Erm…,” she says, holding up her arms, allowing Yasmin to adjust the fit. “There are some training bras in her room. It’s up to Emily if she wants to wear one though.”

Alex looks down at me and she grins.

“I’d wear a bra, Emily. I remember being your age. Always made me feel so grown up wearing one.” she whispers. “Go get some clean underwear and hurry back… ok sweety!”

Throwing her a smile as I quickly run to my room, I decide I’m going to wear a bra. Right now I’m a girl, so I might as well get the most out of this experience.

Grabbing the fresh underwear and training bra, I rush back into the room.

Yasmin gives me a dirty look as I enter, but I ignore her and walk straight over to Alex.

“I’m ready,” I say, showing her my underwear.

“Good,” Alex replies, clapping her hands together. “Let's get you ready!”

Pulling my nighty over my head, trying to be super careful of my hair and makeup, Alex chucks it off to one side.

Usually, I’d be super bashful standing naked in my body right now, but Alex’s smile had me at ease.

“Ok Emily,” she says, taking hold of the bra, and guiding my arms into the straps. “Do you wanna try to do the clasp..?”

As she threads the straps onto my shoulders, I reach around my back and Alex gives me a nod. Helping me find the clasps, Alex helps me strap the bra together.

“There we go,” she cheers. “Growing up so fast!”

I look down at my chest and see the bright pink bra clinging to my chest.

“Tight….aren’t they,” I comment.

“You’ll get used to it.” Alex giggles. “Now, can you pull your panties up, and then we will get you into your dress.”

Moments later, Alex has unzipped the back of my dress and is holding it up to me. She signals for me to step into it.

I do, and seconds later, she has the dress pulled up over my body and resting on my shoulders.

“It’s really heavy,” I moan, feeling the weight of the skirt and all that material.

“Hey,” Alex whispers into my ear as she adjusts the fit of it around my waist. “Jess needs you to be a big girl today. Trust me, it’s looks so pretty and it will be worth it!”

“O…kay,” I answer back, with a whisper.

Giving me a grin, Alex moves around me and zips up the back.

“You’re in,” she happily comments. “Now for your pretty little sash.”

Pulling the sash tight behind me, it sinches in my stomach. It almost makes me look like I’ve got hips and a narrow waist.

“So, did you know…?” Alex says quietly to me, as she works on the sash. “I’m going to be doing the flower girl job, because…your walking Jess down the aisle.”

“You are…?” I reply softly. “I’m super honored she’s letting me walk her down the aisle.”

“Your so cute,” Alex quietly giggles. “Honestly… I thought the whole thing with her family not coming was going to bother her more. If ask me, she’s thrilled you’re doing it for her.”

“Yeah….?” I answer, more excited.

“Yeah, Hunny bun,” she grins. “Just make sure you hold her hand tight, don’t walk too fast, and smile that pretty little face off….okay?”

“I will!” I chirp. “I will do my best!”

The rest of the morning is a little frantic. Once, we’d all got into our dresses and the ladies had got into their heels, the driver had already arrived and was ready to take us to the church.

As we leave the house, I could see the nerves getting to Jess. She looked worried and a little stressed.

Giving her my hand, I think she reply apricated the support.

Stuffing her into the car, careful not to damage her perfect white dress, we are all quiet on the journey over.

As we pulled up at the church, it looked beautiful in the late morning sunshine. They couldn’t have got luckier with the weather.

I mean, I wasn’t going to complain. I’m wearing a very frilly dress that wasn’t going to protect me from the elements.

No one was standing outside. It must be that all the guests and Kevin must be waiting inside. We are a little late!

As we all get out, the ladies fuss over Jess and me, ensuring we look our best.

Alex rushes over to the church and pokes her head inside to check everyone was in. Throwing us all a big thumbs up, Yasmin hugs Jess and wishes her luck.

As we all lineup, getting into order out the front of the church, I stand next to Jess and watch the emotions on her face.

I could see her breathing heavily. She looks nervous.

“Hey Jess,” I say, gaining her attention as the bridesmaids rush around getting everything in order.

“Kevin loves you more than life itself,” I tell her, giving her a big grin. “Please don’t look so worried, I wanna see your pretty smile!”

Jess forces a small smile and nods.

“Thanks, Emily,” she gently smiles. “I was just thinking about my family and how they aren’t here. Still hurts me.”

“Don’t think about it,” I say sternly, shaking my head.

“It’s hard not to,” Jess replies, staring nervously at the church entrance.

I take hold of her hand and squeeze it tight. Jess looks back down at me and smiles.

“It’s hard not to think about it when you’ve been like a daughter to me these last few days,” she admits. “They not here because I can’t have a daughter. It’s so ironic!”

“I’m proud of you,” I respond, squeezing her hand again. “Please, just imagine Kevin's face when he sees you. I’m going to be right here next to you. I’m honored you’re letting me do this for you. I’m honored you’re letting me give you away.”

“Let's do this,” Jess exclaims, looking down at me with fierce determination.

As we grip each other's hands tight we both focus on the bridal party ahead of us.

Alex, holding the flower girl basket stands with one of Kevin's ushers and Yasmin stands next to another. 

Behind those two couples, Jess and I stand at the back of the cue.

“Ready everyone?” Yasmin yells back at us.

Jess raises her hand to give a thumbs up.

My heart rate goes wild as we start slowly marching in. I could feel It beating away in my little chest.

Just as I feel myself getting nervous, Jess grips my hand tighter and I look up at her and instantly remember why I’m doing this.

As the Bridal Chorus booms from the large organ inside the church, we enter the grand hall one by one.

Entering the prestigious old building, I felt so small.

I wanted to see Kevin's expression as I walked Jess down the aisle.  Sadly for me, I couldn’t see past Yasmin's fat behind!

As the bridal party started splitting to either side of the pride and groom, I finally saw Kevin in his dapper three-piece suit.

I’d never seen him looking so sharp. The guy had even shaved his mustache! I hadn’t seen him without that since we were kids!

I wasn’t surprised to see the tears forming behind his eyes. His face was wide with the biggest smile I’d ever seen him make.

Taking a second to acknowledge me as we approach, Kevin gives me a wink and a nod.

The ceremony was lovely, albeit a little long.

I thought I’d be more jealous of his best man, standing beside him, but in all honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any different.  It felt right, standing to Jess’s side.

My little legs did start to feel awfully tired as the ceremony continued. The weight of my dress didn’t help with that.

Then came Kevin and Jess’s first kiss as husband and wife.

It being mostly Kevin’s family and some of Jess’s friends, the church still erupted into cheers and applause as Kevin swooped his wife down and kissed her passionately.

It almost brought a tear to my eye. Usually, weddings don’t stir my emotions at all, but this one really had the old ticker humming.

The entire wedding party then walks back down the aisle with everyone cheering and taking photos. As the crowds formed, I tried my best to get out of everyone's way.

Then came the pictures. One after the other after the other. My poor little face hurt by the end of it!

That wasn’t the worst of it, being a little girl, I felt so small and a little lost.

Jess did try to ensure I was ok, but with all the commotion, I ended up getting bumped and pulled in every which direction.

Eventually, it was all finished and Jess and Kevin went off with the photographers to take more personal ones.

That left me kinda at a loose end. I was left with the rest of the guests standing out front of the church.

As all the grown-ups start talking and chatting away, I felt lonely for the first time. I’d hadn’t really been alone as Emily before.

“Oi,” Yasmin groans, calling me towards her. “Can you make yourself useful and lead the guests to the venue behind the church?”

I didn’t like her tone, but I didn’t mind.

I did my best to shout and scream as loud as possible to get everyone's attention. It didn’t work.

“Hello everyone! Please listen!” Kevin's best man shouts, helping me out with a playful wink.

The guests all stop talking and turn their attention to us.

“This little lady is talking!” he yells, gently pushing me forward to talk.

I felt a little bit of anger rise to the surface! This guy stole my rightful role in the wedding!

“Go head little lady…,” he says, giving me a friendly smile.

Just as I open my mouth to tell everyone where to go, Yasmin bellows over me and takes the words right out of my mouth.

What on earth was she doing!? Why did she ask me to do it in the first place?

I give her a dirty look. She huffs in response and turns her back on me.

“Oh…,” Kevin’s best man chuckles, kneeling down in front of me. “I thought that was your job…”

“I know…,” I reply, sticking out my tongue in Yasmin’s direction.

“Nevermind! You did do a smashing job during the ceremony,” He says, laughing at my reaction. “My name is Liam. What's yours.”

“It’s Ste….,” I stop and look away embarrassed. “……Emily.”

“Well Emily..,” He grins. Did you know that you are the talk of the wedding? Everyone is so very curious about you.”

“They are….?” I ask, raising an eyebrow at him

“Sure…,” he replies. “The mysterious flower girl!”

“Oh….yeah,” I answer, looking away. I knew what he was getting at. No one really knew where I’d come from.

“Kevin couldn’t stop gushing how proud he was of you yesterday night,” Liam chuckles. “I think he’s really quite taken with having you around the house.”

“Oh, Kevin…. He’s such a big softy really!” I giggle, not wanting to say anything more

As much as he’s the first person to check on me, I still didn’t like that he's the best man!

“Come on Emily…,” Liam says, getting to his feet. “Kevin asked me to keep an eye on you. Do you wanna walk with me to the dining hall?”

“Ok,” I answer through gritted teeth. “Lead the way.”

Liam holds out his hand for me to grab. I do so reluctantly.

I’m so getting Kevin for this…! He’s asked Liam to do that on purpose….the git!

After a few awkward moments, holding Liam's hand and being treated like a kid, we reach the dining hall and the place looks amazing!

They must have spent a fortune on the decorations and the spread they’ve put out looked absolutely divine!. Is a travesty that I’m down for the awful kids' menu! I’m not really enjoying the endless chicken nuggets!

“Hey Emily,” Liam says, stopping me just at the entrance. “Jess arranged a little surprise for you. They’ve asked me to share it.”

“Oh…should I be worried,” I reply curious, hoping it wasn’t revealing who I really am. “What is it…!?”

“Well,” Liam says, pointing in a direction. “She knew you might get a little lonely as they have their big day. She invited your friend. He’s over there.”

Looking in that direction, I see a young boy wearing a suit, looking a little nervous.

“Is that….?” I say, squinting my eyes. “Justin!” I scream out, running towards him.

Finding it hard to run in my Marie Janes and the weight of the dress flicking in every direction, I stop in front of him so much more excited than I’d ever thought I would be!

“HEY!” I scream, throwing my arms around him and hugging him tightly. “Why are you here!?”

I can feel Justin go all tense and awkwardly squirm around as I hug him.

“I-I….,” he mumbles, finding it hard to get his words out. “I…think you look v-very pretty in you’re d-dress…,”

Letting go of him, I step back and give him a little twirl.

“Thanks!” I say, as my skirt spins around me and gently spins. “I think you look very smart in that suit!”

“My mom made me wear it,” Justin gripes, pulling at his top button. “I wanted to wear shorts!”

Gently taking me by the hand, he looks around the room like a frightened meerkat.

“My mom dropped me off and they told me to wait for you,” he says, looking anxiously around. “I don’t know anyone here. I guess you know everyone, It being your family and all.”

Clutching my hand, I could feel how sweaty his palm is.

“Not really,” I flippantly answer, giving his hand a reassuring tight squeeze. “It’s not really my family, I’m just kinda a friend.”

“What?” Justin asks as I notice he’s blushing.

“Yeah,” I continue, giggling at how uncomfortable the whole situation is making him. “Kevin and Jess aren’t my parents. I’m…kinda….just living with them.”

“Does that mean you're going to go away sometime...!?” Justin asks, looking genuinely upset by that prospect.

Looking into his eyes, I could see the tears forming. I wanted to punch him in the shoulder like a teammate would and tell him to grow up.

Oddly, Something was stopping me.

I guess I’d never really thought about it either. I think I’d be sad to not see him again too!

“Emily…?” Justin questions, gripping my hand tighter. “Please don’t go. If you stay, you can go to our school and be part of the soccer team! Then we can hang out after school!”

The determination in his eyes to persuade me to stay was so very flattering. I can’t remember the last time someone was this desperate for me to be a part of their life.

That’s when I decided to tell Justin the truth. I felt like he deserved to know who I really am. That way he’d understand why I had to go!

“Emily!” He exclaims as I start rushing towards to exit, roughly pulling him in the same direction. “What are you doing!?”

Weaving between grown-ups and endless chairs, we finally make it outside.

My dress was flapping like mad as we both ran to a more secluded area. Eventually, around the corner for the building, facing an open field, I spin around to look Justin in the eyes.

“I w-wanna….t-tell you s-something!” I struggle to say, between long heavy breaths.

Building up the courage to admit the truth, I had no idea how he’d take it! I couldn’t stop thinking about how I’d react if it was me.

Was he even going to believe me!?

Would he believe that this little girl….in this frilly dress…is actually a fully grown man..!?

Staring into each other's eyes, I could see the cogs turning in his mind.

As I go to open my mouth, Justin sticks a single finger out. He places it gently on my bright red lips.

“I-I wanna tell y-you something first,” Justin says, looking nervously down at his feet.

Letting out a long sigh, I felt a little relieved.

“What is it?” I softly ask, bending a little to look at his face.

Justin brings his head up and looks straight at me. I could tell he was worried too. It looked like all the blood in his body had rushed to his cheeks.

“I-I……,” he mutters, struggling to talk with any real confidence.

“Yeah….?” I say, trying to urge the words from his mouth.

“I-I……,” he mutters again, clearly unable to tell me his truth.

I take hold of his hand like I did moments before. Squeezing it tight, I look into his eyes and give him a warm smile.

Blushing like crazy, he gently smiles back, but he says nothing.

Seconds later, he moves a step closer to me and softly takes my other hand into his.

Not sure what was happening, I just keep looking into his eyes with a trusting smile. His palms are even more sweaty than before!

Then, within a fraction of a second, Justin leans towards my face and gently plants a sloppy, first-time kiss on my lips.

Utterly shocked, I freeze on the spot. My heart, beating like mad almost thumping clean out of my chest.

Still holding my hands, he steps back and is terrified to see my shocked reaction.

“D-did….you not like it…!?” He nervously blurts out.

My eyes are wide open, my body still so stiff and rigid. A boy just kissed me!?

“I-I…thought….we are…friends…?” I say very slowly, still trying to process the experience of being kissed by a boy.

“I know!” he exclaims, swiping his hands clean from mine.

Emotionally flapping his hands down to his sides, he bashfully looks away.

“My mom….,” he then says, still looking away. “My mom said if I liked you, I should tell you”

“I don’t know what to say,” I admit to him after a small pause.

I couldn’t think through my emotional storm. This body of mine wasn’t reacting how I’d imagine it should. My brain wasn’t reacting as I felt it should.

It was like the pure cold logic of my brain was battling the happiness of my heart.

“Kiss me again,” I whisper, instantly grabbing his attention. “Kiss me one more time.”

Awkwardly taking hold of my hands again, he leans in.

This time, I lean in too!

As our lips gently touch and he kisses me again. It’s just as clumsy and uncomfortable as before, but It was making me feel good inside.

“WHORE!” is then bellowed across the churchyard, causing us to both to jump back in terror!

Looking across the way, Yasmin is bounding over towards us. Like a stream train in heels, she thunders in our direction.

Before we even get time to react, she’s grabbed Justin by the scruff of the neck and has me by my earlobes.

“You dirty girl!” She growls, forcing us both toward the wedding hall. “I need to show everyone what a little whore you are!”

Kicking and screaming, both me and Justin are dragged into the middle of the room. Frantically trying to break free from her grip, I could hear all the guests gasping at us.

“Whos boy is this!?” Yasmin booms out, causing any idle chatter to stop and all the attention to be focused on us.

A circle forms around the three of us, as Yasmin pushes us both out in front of her.

We both stumble, but manage to stay on our feet!

Looking around, I could see all the judgemental faces and the worried expressions of the guests staring at us.

“This little whore!” Yasmin yells, pointing at me. “Was just trying to take advantage of your son. Come out and take him before she poisons him too!”

As I feel the judging eyes fall upon me, I can hear the guests chattering about me.

“It’s not like that!” Justin screams, coming to my defense.

“Oh….is that right boy!” Yasmin sniggers, looking down at him with threatening body language.

“What's going on here!?” I then hear, booming across the room, accompanied by the sound of clicking heels on the stone floor.

Before my eyes, Kevin rushes to stand between Yasmin and Justin.

Moments later, Jess kneels before me.

“Care to explain why you’re threatening these kids at OUR wedding!?” Kevin says with stern confidence.

Jess doesn’t look at Yasmin, she just focuses her attention solely on me.

Her concerned and worried face had me wanting to cry out in fear of this nasty woman. What has she got against me!?

“This dirty little thing….,” Yasmin gripes, looking over at me. “Was taking advantage of this boy! Kissing at their age. Disgusting! ”

Stopping to look around at the lack of parents showing up to claim him, Yasmin laughs.

“Who is this boy anyways!?” she questions at the top of her voice. “Is he even invited to this wedding or did Emily sneak him in?”

“Are you ok…?” Jess softly asks me, ignoring the commotion behind her.

Speechless, I just nod.

“Is this true what Yasmin is saying?” Jess asks, looking at me with concern. “Did you take advantage?”

“No,” I say shaking my head from side to side in desperation.

Leaning in towards Jess, I feel a single tear roll down my cheek.

“He said he likes me,” I whisper. “He kissed me, but I wasn’t sure how to react. So we kissed again.”

“Sorry….?” Jess questions, very confused. “So he took advantage of you?”

“No,” I say, louder and more confident. “I wanted to kiss him!”

Behind us, Yasmin was continuing to shout and complain.

Jess on the other hand was just looking deep into my eyes with a shocked expression.

“Y-you wanted to…,” Jess replies, stopping to wipe a tear from my cheek. “You really wanted to kiss him?”

Bashfully nodding, another tear rolls down my face.

“Right then, if no one will claim this boy!” Yasmin commands, pushing past Kevin with ease and grabbing Justin. “Time for you to go!”

“Just one second!” Jess screams, standing up and marching towards Yasmin with bridal fury.

“Jessica,” Yasmin replies quieter. “I think it’s best if this boy goes. We don’t want any more underage moms around here!”

“How dare you!” Jess spits, pushing Yasmin away from Justin. “This boy happens to be our Emily’s best friend. He happens to have been invited by ME!”

As Justin moves back from Yasmin, he looks so very scared.

“Hey Justin,” Kevin says, grabbing him up into his arms. “Let's go get you a Pepsi.”

Watching Kevin escort Justin away, I wanted to follow behind but felt terrified to move.

“So I’m the bad guy know…!” Yasmin complains, throwing a hand up in frustration. “I’m just trying to save you embarrassment at your wedding, Jessica!”

“They are kids!” Jess growls, standing tall in front of Yasmin but still coming up shorter. “The only embarrassment here is YOU!”

“Is that right….,” Yasmin replies, leaning a hand on her hip. “Well….. at least my family would turn up to my wedding…unlike yours Jessica!”

“What did you say!” Jess angrily replies, holding back the tears. “Leave right NOW!”

“Fine,” Yasmin hisses, turning to walk towards the exit.

As she starts to stamp off, she looks down at me and grits her teeth.

“You two whores are meant to be together!” he says spitefully, turning to face Jess. “Maybe you can punch her in the stomach Jessica. That way you can be infertile together!”

As guests around break out into gossiping chatter, Jess rushes over to me as quickly as her heels would allow.

As she grabs me tight and brings me close, I could feel her body shaking.

“Are you ok!?” she asks, on the verge of tears.

“Y-yeah,” I answer, now sobbing uncontrollably

Not being able to stop crying, me and Jess hug for what feels like an eternity. Even though I’d never been so terrified and useless feeling in my life, Jess’s warm embrace made me feel safe and secure.

Eventually, we both start to calm down.

“Jess…,” I say, looking up at her ruined makeup, but comforting smile. “You invited Justin here for me? Why….?”

With one large sniff and a wipe of her eyes, Jess grins.

“I thought that would make you happy,” she replies, brushing hair from her eyes.

“You did that for me?” I say, shocked. “Even after those nasty things I said?”

“That wasn’t going to stop me wanting for you to be happy Emily,” Jess quickly answers.

“Did you know he liked me then..?” I question, wondering if she knew.

“No sweety,” she answers. “You just always seem so happy when you are together.”

“Did you do that to make me consider staying a girl?” I whisper, thinking she’d done it to manipulate me.

“Emily,” Jess replies, gently touching my face. “I only did it, because I wanted to make you happy.

Throwing her arms out, we embrace for a second time.

“So…..do you like him too….?” Jess whispers into my ear as we cuddle.

“I…think so,” I whisper in return.

Hugging me tighter, Jess giggles.

“We should probably go check on him.” She whispers again, through her laughter. “He’s probably worried about you.”

“Oh yeah,” I quickly reply, realizing I’m actually worried about him too.

Getting to our feet, Jess brushes down her wedding dress and takes my hand.

Catching up with Kevin and Justin at the bar, we sat down and all took a quiet moment to process what had just happened.

Justin seems super worried to even just look at me.

Thirty minutes passed and several guests of the wedding would come to check if we were ok. Many complimented Jess on her actions. It Seemed Yasmin had been pissing a lot of people off.

From what Alex said, I gather that Yasmin was extremely jealous of Jess.

Doesn’t surprise me to hear that the woman is sad and lonely. She’s got a lot of hate in those veins!

The drama soon passes, and the normal laughter and joy soon reappears.

Having to all take a seat at the wedding tables, Jess had sat me and the kid's table next to Justin. He still wasn’t talking to me, but I knew I had the rest of the night to get him speaking to me again.

I think I was maybe meant to be at the head table. After what happened, I am glad I wasn’t

As the speeches start happening and I’m feeling a little left out, I start thinking about my life and everything that’s happened in the last week.

I couldn’t get Justin's worried face, for me potentially leaving, out of my head. I couldn’t stop thinking about how great my relationship is with Jess and how’d I’d miss it.

My brain is burning out with all these new thoughts and feelings. Am I worried I’m going to lose everything I’ve gained!

Am I more worried about that, than getting my manhood back!?

“Emily?” Justin says softly, placing his hand on my bare knee. “I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you earlier. I’m just not that brave!”

Pleased he’d finally spoken to me again, I give him the widest smile.

“Yes, you are!” I cheerfully reply. “You were brave enough to admit how you feel about me!”

“Do….you…like me back?” He asks, leaning in desperate for my answer.

Still, my brain and my heart fight for what the correct reply should be!

I couldn’t answer him! What do I say? DO I tell him the truth? Do I leave and transform back without telling him? Do I stay this way?

Almost scared by my lack of response, he looks away disappointed. My heart sank as he slumped in his chair.

That’s when subconsciously, I grab hold of my knife and tap my glass, making it ring out.

As the entire room looks over to me, I continue tapping my glass as if I want to stand up and give a speech.

“Emily…?” Justin asks confused, as I stand up in front of everyone.

“Hiya…..,” I say as loud as possible for all to hear. “I just wanted to say a few words.”

I look over at Kevin and Jess at the head table. Kevin is urging me on and Jess is grinning from ear to ear.

“So, a lot of you don’t know who I am,” I start saying, knowing that the attention is on me. “I’ve been living with the wonderful couple now for over a week. I’m from a broken household and they’ve taken me in with all their heart! They’ve even given me the honor of giving the lovely bride away. I’ve never felt more a part of a family than I do right now.”

I stop and give both Jess and Kevin a big smile.

“I have a question for you Kevin and Jess,” I tell them as they both look at me confused. “Please don’t let this end! I want to stay part of your family. I’ve never been happier! Don’t send me away!

Chatter fills the room as I stand alone.

“Will you guys……..adopt me?” I manage to ask over the gossiping noise.

Silence then falls from the rest of the wedding party. All eyes zoom to the head table as they wonder what the answer will be.

Everyone was tense and curious for Jess and Kevin's answer. The tension was killing me! Would they accept me as their daughter?

Looking down at Jess, Kevin smiles and stands beside her. Then, Helping Jess to her feet, he gives her a nod.

“Emily,” Kevin says with joy in his voice. “On behalf of my stunning wife, we couldn’t be more thrilled that you want us as parents! Of course, we will!”

Rapturous applause and loud cheering echo and bounce off the solid walls of the room.

Kevin winks at me as they both sit back down. I can’t stop smiling and neither could Jess.

“Hey,” Justin says, nudging me as I sit down. “Does this mean you are staying?”

“I…..guess it does,” I answer, giving him a smile and reaching towards him with my hand. “It also must mean…..that I like you….too,”

“No way!” Justin replies, going bright red.

He grabs my hand and holds it tight. It didn’t want him to let go of it!

“Erm,” I nervously mutter, thinking about what my decision means. “So… school….please look after me on my first day!”

“Don’t worry Emily,” Justin answers, giving me a wide grin. “I can’t wait for the girls at school to see how good you are with a soccer ball. You’re going to love it!”

“You know what,” I answer, leaning towards him wanting another kiss. “I think I am going to love this!”

The End