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<div id="doll"><<Doll>></div>/* All Rights Reserved 2023 by CTJ */ <<set $Suggestible = 0>> <<set $Stable = 0>> <<set $Sophisticated = 0>> <<set $Confident = 0>> <<set $Easy = 0>> <<set $Risky = 0>> <<set $Excitable = 0>> <<set $Age = 0>> <<set $Mlooks = 0>> <<set $Flooks = 0>> <<set $Fheight = 0>> <<set $Mheight = 0>> <<set $discipline = 0>> <<set $coordination = 0>> <<set $investigation = 0>> <<set $performance = 0>> <<set $perception = 0>> <<set $wiles = 0>> <<set $deception = 0>> <<set $virgin = true>> <<set $learning = 0>> <<set $athletics = 0>> <<set $social = 0>> <<set $HSBC = 0>> <<set $wealth = 3>> <<set $bank = 0>> <<set $Arousal = 0>> <<set $pregnant = false>> <<set $College = false>> <<set $GapYear = false>> <<set $DropOut = false>> <<set $Bodytraits to []>> <<set $Traits = []>> <<set $Tattoos to []>> <<set $Piercings to []>> <<set $Grooming = []>> <<set $Pubes = []>> <<set $Undies = []>> <<set $Braless = false>> <<set $Bodies = []>> <<set $BodiesDetails = new Map([[]])>> <<set $Inven = []>> <<set $Media = []>> <<set $AddictionLv = 0>> <<set $Memories = []>> <<set $Sexskills = []>> <<set $Kinks = []>> <<set $Closet = []>> <<set $VCard = "">><<nobr>> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <<link "<img src='img/doll/closeup/pussy_white.png' style='filter:opacity(0%);' class='closeup'>">> <<set $Pubes to "bald">> <<replace "#pubicbuttons">> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> </div> <</replace>> <</link>> </div> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_strip_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> <<link "<img src='img/doll/closeup/pussy_white.png' style='filter:opacity(0%);' class='closeup'>">> <<set $Pubes to "strip">> <<replace "#pubicbuttons">> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_strip_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> </div> <</replace>> <</link>> </div> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_sparse_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> <<link "<img src='img/doll/closeup/pussy_white.png' style='filter:opacity(0%);' class='closeup'>">> <<set $Pubes to "bikini">> <<replace "#pubicbuttons">> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_sparse_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> </div> <</replace>> <</link>> </div> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_trimmed_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> <<link "<img src='img/doll/closeup/pussy_white.png' style='filter:opacity(0%);' class='closeup'>">> <<set $Pubes to "bush">> <<replace "#pubicbuttons">> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_trimmed_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> </div> <</replace>> <</link>> </div> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_natural_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> <<link "<img src='img/doll/closeup/pussy_white.png' style='filter:opacity(0%);' class='closeup'>">> <<set $Pubes to "bush">> <<replace "#pubicbuttons">> <div style="display: inline-block; position: relative; width:128px; height:128px"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pussy_' + $Skin + '.png'" class="closeup"> <img @src="'img/doll/closeup/pubes_natural_' + $Hair + '.png'" class="closeup"> </div> <</replace>> <</link>> </div> <</nobr>><<widget "Doll">><<nobr>> /* initialize variables */ <<if ndef $doll>> <<set $doll = { hat: "", socks: "", feet: "chunkySneaks", panties: "thong", lower: "denimSkirt", bra: "bra", upper: "shirtSparrow", jacket: "", accessory: "", }>> /* make sure the dollPath variable is set to the correct path relative to the html-file */ <<set $dollPath to "img/doll/">> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("CC013 - FinalForm2")>> <center><div class="dollContainer"> <<nobr>> /* Doll base, eyes, breasts */ <img @class="'doll skin' + $Skin" @src="$dollPath + 'body/body.png'"> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'body/body_rim.png'"> <img @class="'doll eye' + $Eyes" @src="$dollPath + 'body/eyes.png'"> <<if $doll.bra eq "" and $doll.upper eq "">> <img @class="'doll skin' + $Skin" @src="$dollPath + 'body/topless_' + $Tits + '.png'"> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'body/topless_' + $Tits + '_rim.png'"> <<elseif $doll.bra eq "" and $doll.upper neq "">> <img @class="'doll skin' + $Skin" @src="$dollPath + 'body/boobs_' + $Tits + '.png'"> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'body/boobs_' + $Tits + '_rim.png'"> <<else>> <img @class="'doll skin' + $Skin" @src="$dollPath + 'body/boobs_' + $Tits + '.png'"> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'body/boobs_' + $Tits + '_rim.png'"> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.bra + '_' + $Tits + '.png'"> <</if>> /* Am I wearing panties? if not show pubes*/ <<if $doll.panties neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/panties_' + $doll.panties + '.png'"> <<elseif $doll.panties eq "" and $Pubes neq "bald">> <img @class="'doll hair' + $Hair" @src="$dollPath + 'hair/pubes_' + $Pubes + $Hair + '.png'"> <</if>> /* Am I wearing a shoes? */ <<if $doll.feet neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.feet + '.png'"> <</if>> <<if $doll.socks neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.socks + '.png'"> <</if>> /* Am I wearing a skirt or pants? */ <<if $doll.lower neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.lower + '.png'"> <</if>> /* Am I wearing a shirt or dress? */ <<if $doll.upper neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.upper + '_' + $Tits + '.png'"> <</if>> /* Am I wearing accessories or jacket? */ <<if $doll.accessory neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.accessory + '.png'"> <</if>> <<if $doll.jacket neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.jacket + '.png'"> <</if>> /* Hair & Hat*/ <img @class="'doll hair' + $Hair" @src="$dollPath + 'hair/hair_' + $Style + '.png'"> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'hair/hair_' + $Style + '_rim.png'"> <<if $doll.hat neq "">> <img class="doll" @src="$dollPath + 'clothing/' + $doll.hat + '.png'"> <</if>> <</nobr>> </div> </center> <</if>> <</nobr>><</widget>> /*Main Dressme widget..*/ <<widget "dressme">><<nobr>> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[1]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[1]>> <</if>> <<print "<<set $doll." + $args[0] + " to " + "'" + _clothingtemp + "'>>" >> <<replace "#doll">><<Doll>><</replace>> <</nobr>><</widget>> /*Socks subwidget*/ <<widget "socks">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'socks' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*Feet subwidget*/ <<widget "feet">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'feet' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*panties subwidget*/ <<widget "panties">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'panties' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*bra subwidget*/ <<widget "bra">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'bra' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*lower subwidget*/ <<widget "lower">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'lower' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*upper subwidget*/ <<widget "upper">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'upper' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*jacket subwidget*/ <<widget "jacket">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'jacket' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*accessory subwidget*/ <<widget "accessory">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'accessory' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*accessory subwidget*/ <<widget "hat">> <<set _clothingtemp to "">> <<if def $args[0]>> <<set _clothingtemp to $args[0]>> <</if>> <<print "<<dressme 'hat' " + _clothingtemp + ">>" >> <</widget>> /*undress subwidget*/ <<widget "undress">> <<set $doll = { hat: "", socks: "", feet: "", panties: "", lower: "", bra: "", upper: "", jacket: "", accessory: "", }>> <</widget>><<widget "addText">> /* First argument is the ID, second is the text to add. */ <<set _input = _args>> <<script>> let args = State.temporary.input; const textSpan = document.createElement('div'); textSpan.innerHTML = args[1]; const parent = document.querySelector(args[0]); parent.append(textSpan); <</script>> <</widget>><a class="border img"><img src="img/Blue_Swallow.png"></a> Welcome to Blue Swallow© : Adult American Spy Thriller. You control the action of our main protagonist, our heroine who has been thrust from a normal life into going undercover to save her family and save her country. [[Who is she?|CC001 - Origin]] How did she end up in this position? Will she succeed? ...What will she have to do to accomplish her mission? <span style="color: red;">''YOU''</span> decide. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This is a sexpionage adventure game for adults only. If you're under 18, if adult material offends you, or if it's illegal for you to view adult material, __please__ __leave__ __now__. All sexual content within this game occurs between consenting persons who are legally able to do so.<div id = "open">It's no: "The scent and smoke and sweat of a casino are nauseating at three in the morning. Then the soul-erosion produced by high gambling -- a compost of greed and fear and nervous tension -- becomes unbearable and the senses awake and revolt from it." This story begins...<<link "differently">> <<replace "#open">> <img class="gifs" src="img/OriginSex.gif"> <<timed 2s>> <div id = "his">He was <<hover>><<listbox "$Dad">> <<option "hers" 3>> <<option "a big mistake" -3>> <<option "intoxicating" 1>><</listbox>><<tip>>Nurture: The types of people around our protagonist can certainly affect who she is and the life she leads <</hover>>. Biting his lip, he was focused on staving off the inevitable -- he didn't want to surprise her and disappoint. He drove himself into her, intent on her reactions: Would she be surprised if he...oh... It was //close//... <<shake 3s>>Thrusting.<</shake>> <<link "''Grunting.''">><<replace "#his">>She was <<hover>><<listbox "$position">> <<option "riding" 1>> <<option "bent over" -1>> <<option "on her back" 0>> <</listbox>><<tip>>Nurture: Actions speak loudly to the people taking them.<</hover>>, body bouncing from the impact of his hips. She could feel his intensity: fire and steel with his impending end. Shit. But she wanted to <<shake 2s>>cum<</shake>>. His cock shoved her open, making room for what would come. She //gyrated//. Panting. Trying to get there. She <<hover>><<cycle "$Mom">> <<option "was trying for me" 3>> <<option "was too drunk to be careful" -2>> <<option "thought he was wearing protection" -3>> <<option "was trapping him" -1>> <<option "was forgetful this week" 1>> <<option "believed his promise" -2>> <</cycle>><<tip>>Nurture: And it takes two to tango.<</hover>>. [[In and out.|CC002 - OriginSex]] <</replace>><</link>> </div> <</timed>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div><<set $Conception = $Mom + $Dad + $position>> She pawed at him, squealing from the penetration. <<timed 1s>>It hit deeply inside her. <<next>>Deep. <<next>>Shit. <<next>>That's //deep//. <<next>><<shake 4s>> <<if $Conception gte 3>>[[They made love.|CC003 - Conception]] <<elseif $Conception lt -1 && $Conception gte -3>>[[They fucked.|CC003 - Conception]] <<elseif $Conception lte -4>>[[He railed her.|CC003 - Conception]] <<else>>[[They had sex.|CC003 - Conception]]<</if>> <</shake>><</timed>>/* Add flavor for these sections and $Mom and $Dad variables -- patron request */ <<silently>><<unset $position>><</silently>> <<nobr>><<if $Conception gte 3>> Her hands stroked his chest, fingers digging into his moistened skin. They weren't in any rush, reveling in the pleasure and the beauty of the other's naked body. <br><br> She encouraged him, "That's it, goooood boy." <br><br> He shook his head with a bemused smile, but his rhythm didn't stutter. He drove deeply, his crotch crashing into hers as his cock stuffed inside her to the absolute limits of his length. <br><br> She felt the pressure deep inside her at every inward stroke, until the ultimate moment. They pressed tightly against each other, clutching at their tensing muscles and feeling each other reach crescendo. <br><br> A moment where the silence was punctuated only by their ragged breaths. <br><br> Meanwhile, ''//I//'' was being [[created|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception lte -1 && $Conception gte -3>> Their hormones raged, bodies competing with each other for pleasure. <br><br> It had all happened in a flash. Clothes flew off their bodies, torn off in a flurry to get naked and behave like absolute animals. <br><br> Selfishness reigned supreme: they unabashedly slammed their bodies against one another ignoring any pain, seeking orgasm as quickly as possible. <<elseif $Conception == -1>> She got off multiple times despite feeling __nothing__ for the man. As he clutched at her, emptying himself inside her, she thought, "Well, at least it was a great fuck." <br><br> She crossed her fingers, too late for anything else. His sperm, though, didn't care much for [[luck|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception == -2>> His average performance had her feeling disappointed as his eyes rolled back in his release. <br><br> Yet before the dissatisfaction could take hold, orgasm exploded within her. His last powerful thrust and the intense feeling of his semen invading her body, thankfully bringing her bliss. <br><br> She spasmed and gasped, his sperm taking full advantage of her [[distraction|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception == -3>> He was off in his own little world. Unable to follow her subtle hints or directions he remained oblivious as he fucked her. <br><br> Uncaring staring off above her, he pounded away mercilessly excited by the moment of taking her. <br><br> She realized quickly that cumming was in the cards for //her//, relenting to simply adjusting -- avoiding discomfort rather than seek pleasure. <br><br> And then he grabbed her firmly, already nutting hard deeply inside her. He either liked seeing her reaction or just ignored it, enjoying his climax while she waited. She got [[knocked up|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception lt -3>> As he held her still, like a fucktoy, she wondered what had gone wrong. Somewhere the evening had gone from fun to having this guy casually banging her out. <br><br> She felt him unromantically jamming his hard cock inside her without abandon, completely out of tune to anything other than his pleasure. <br><br> She listened to him, "Good girl, //take// that ''cock''." <br><br> He grinned broadly at his conquest, throwing his head back in finality while pressing roughly against her crotch as her pussy brought him to orgasm, his semen spewing thickly inside her. <br><br> Just another disappointment. One that felt incredible for him for half a minute, and had [[long lasting ramifications|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception == 0>> Their bodies smacked against each other, a familiar pattern each of them had learned over the years. This angle, that speed...and...//there//. A contented climax, typical of their lovemaking as she lay there tensed, body trembling slightly. <br><br> He followed soon after. She felt his cock pulsing inside her as their session came to an end. <br><br> It was good. Not especially memorable and she couldn't for the life of her have told you that it was ''this'' encounter that had been [[so decisive|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception == 1>> There was a passion, intensity, and focus on her, she could see the look in his eyes as he thrust excitedly, trying to find that combination that unlocked her. <br><br> She came. <br><br> A crescendo they were both seeking. <br><br> Her head flew back crying out in ecstasy as he gave in to his own desires, quickly thrusting as deep as he could to unleash his seed while she was in the throws. <br><br> Something felt special about those five or so minutes, and soon she knew [[why|CC004 - Household]]. <<elseif $Conception == 2>> She was overwhelmed. Cumming //again// -- how was that ''possible''? "Chr//ist//!" There was a pleading pitch to her cries now. <br><br> Her hands pressed and pushed, as if she were fighting off death itself, her body screaming at her for some relief from these reliefs. <br><br> He chuckled and smiled proudly as he ignored her, continuing without a second thought, trying to extend her orgasm. <br><br> He was sweaty; she was a sloppy mess. He wondered what would happen first: his muscles giving out or his ability to keep his own orgasm at bay. <br><br> She had lost count. He had lost count, his brain far more occupied with...and there it was. <br><br> She collapsed as he finished. He gave a disappointed shake of his head, unable to keep increasing her count, as his control gave way to the massive load that he'd been edging. <br><br> She laughed as her brain melted. His sperm laughed, too, their incredible numbers gave her [[no chance|CC004 - Household]]. <</if>><</nobr>><<nobr>><<silently>> <<unset $Conception>> <<set _motherOptions = { 'excited' : 'loved', 'too young' : 'young', 'ready again' :'family' }>> <<if $Mom !== "was trying for me" || $Mom !== "was trapping him">> <<set _motherOptions["who didn't want me"] = 'unwanted'>> <</if>> <<if $Mom !== "was trying for me" || $Mom !== "was trapping him">> <<set _motherOptions['who felt I ruined her life'] = 'hated'>> <</if>><</silently>><</nobr>> <div id = "origin">How's //that// for an origin story? My literal origin. Luckily, I don't have ''actual'' knowledge of those...//seminal// moments of my life. <<timed 1.5s>>Ha. <<next>>Okay. <<next>>Fine. <<next>>You might think it's too far back or irrelevant, but you'd be surprised how even tiny events or differences I've found to have important repercussions. <<next>>I only have to assume that something from the very beginning, coupled with everything else along the way, brought me to my own spy story. <<next>>And, I'd argue, incredibly relevant that sex starts the story, right? <<next>>La petit mort du <<link "la petit">><<replace "#origin">><<dialog 'Phenotype' 'popup'>>Blue Swallow has many opportunities, like this one, to affect the MC -- Let's call her Claire.<br><br>You might be surprised, but this is an opportunity to affect her appearance.<br><br>You might be used to choices that are links. While those exist, options, like these one, affect Claire's physical traits.<br><br>While not //exactly// a Punnett square, Claire's eventual looks are definitely determined by the two people who made her. Kind of like you're doing now. <</dialog>>So there I was. Inside a woman <<listbox '$Mother' autoselect>><<optionsfrom _motherOptions>><</listbox>> to be my mother. She stood <<listbox "$Fheight" autoselect>><<option "short" -1>><<option "average" 0>><<option "tall" +1>><</listbox>> compared to other women, and looks-wise, she was <<hover>><<listbox "$Flooks" autoselect>> <<option "cute" 1>> <<option "pretty" 2>> <<option "beautiful" 3>> <<option "a goddess" 4>> <</listbox>><<tip>>Pretty people tend to make pretty children.<</hover>> with <<listbox "$Fskin" autoselect>><<option "alabaster">><<option "ebony">><<option "fair">><<option "olive">><</listbox>> complexion, who had caught his attention because <<hover>><<cycle "$Ftrait" autoselect>> <<option "of her quirkiness" "Quirky">> <<option "of how easy she was" "Slutty">> <<option "of the book she was reading" "Smart">> <<option "well, she practically jumped him" "Confident">> <<option "of her personality, honestly" "Popular">> <<option "of her laugh" "Funny">> <<option "he thought she was fucking hot" "looks">><</cycle>><<tip>>And sometimes, personality traits might be tied to a person's gene pool.<</hover>> Or...maybe it was her <<listbox "$Feyes" autoselect>><<option "blue">><<option "brown">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</listbox>> eyes. Or simply, her <<listbox "$Fhair" autoselect>><<option "blonde">><<option "red">><<option "brown">><<option "black">><</listbox>><<listbox "$Fhairstyle" autoselect>>, <<option "straight">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><</listbox>> hair. He, on the other hand, was a <<listbox "$Mskin" autoselect>><<option "black">><<option "latin">><<option "white">><<option "eastern">><</listbox>>, <<listbox "$Mheight" autoselect>><<option "squat" -1>><<option "normal" 0>><<option "towering" +1>><</listbox>> man with a <<listbox "$Meyes" autoselect>><<option "blue">><<option "brown">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</listbox>> gaze and <<listbox "$Mhair" autoselect>><<option "no">><<option "blonde">><<option "red">><<option "brown">><<option "black">><</listbox>> hair. She found him <<listbox "$Mlooks" autoselect>> <<option "gross" -1>> <<option "average" 0>> <<option "cute" 1>> <<option "handsome" 2>> <<option "infuriatingly attractive" 3>> <</listbox>>, but if it weren't for his <<hover>><<cycle "$Mtrait" autoselect>> <<option "cute awkwardness" "Awkward">> <<option "ability to fuck" "Slutty">> <<option "grand ideas" "Smart">> <<option "unmistakable magnetism" "Confident">> <<option "ability to draw a crowd" "Popular">> <<option "incredible jokes" "Funny">> <<option "smile" "looks">> <<option "money, without a doubt" "money">><</cycle>><<tip>>And sometimes, personality traits might be tied to a person's gene pool.<</hover>>, maybe I wouldn't be here now. I always considered him <<listbox "$Father" autoselect>> <<option "an abusive prick" "abusive">> <<option "loving and attentive" "loving">> <<option "only a memory" "gone">> <<option "...present" "absent">> <</listbox>>. And...that's who made [[me|CC005 - Who]].<</replace>><</link>> Le Carré.<</timed>></div><<nobr>><<silently>> <<set _Opening = [ "dumb", "exciting", "not my thing" ]>> <<done>><<run $('#cycle-opening').click( ()=>{ $('#opening').empty().wiki('$Opening'); })>> <</done>><</silently>><</nobr>> <div id = "who">And about nine months from that fateful day, <<textbox "$Name" "Claire">> <<textbox "$Surname" "Campbell">> was born. That's me! The Sydney Bristow, Evelyn Salt, or Kim Possible of the real world. Maybe, just like Bond was modeled after Fleming's experiences, there will be some famous spy created from my adventures. I had always found the whole spy thing <<dialog "Choices Matter" 'popup'>>This choice and other early moments, rather than links or drop-downs, are cycled.<br><br>Wherever you see: <span style="color: #d46d48; font-weight: bold">"ꜜ"</span>, click on the <span style="color: #d46d48; font-weight: bold">words</span> until you are happy with the result, which will affect Claire's personality.<</dialog>> <<cycle "$Opening" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _Opening>> <</cycle>>. Wheels within wheels, double crosses, world-threatening crises...but those things didn't really happen. Jason Bourne, Jack Ryan, Nikita, Hanna, Natasha Romanova and Yelena Belova, even Severus Snape -- but especially Alec Leamas -- were who they were because of their origin stories. __Stories__ But all those movies, all those books hinted at what was really happening. What ''I'' would be a part of. So much for fantasy, so much for <span id='opening'>$Opening</span>. I was driven back from the hospital to my childhood home in <<hover>><<listbox "$hometown">> <<option "Los Angeles, California" "LA">> <<option "New York, New York" "NY">> <<option "Birmingham, Alabama" "AL">> <<option "Seattle, Washington" "WA">> <<option "a small town, nowhere of note" "NO">> <</listbox>><<tip>>This selection, for example, can affect Claire's Stability, Sophistication, and Suggestibility<</hover>>. And inside that <<link "home">><<replace "#who">> <<nobr>><<silently>><<if $Opening == "dumb">><<set $Stable ++>><</if>> <<if $Opening == "exciting">><<set $Suggestible ++>><</if>> <<if $Opening == "not my thing">><<set $Sophisticated -->><</if>> <<unset $Mom, $Dad>> <<if $Fskin == "alabaster">> <<if $Mskin == "black">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "golden", "black")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "white">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "fair")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "latin">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "fair", "olive")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "eastern">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "fair")>><</if>><</if>> <<if $Fskin == "ebony">> <<if $Mskin == "black">> <<set $Skin = "black">><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "white">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "black", "golden")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "latin">> <<set $Skin = either("golden", "black")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "eastern">> <<set $Skin = either("fair", "golden", "black")>><</if>><</if>> <<if $Fskin == "fair">> <<if $Mskin == "black">> <<set $Skin = either("fair", "golden", "black")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "white">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "fair")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "latin">> <<set $Skin = either("fair", "olive")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "eastern">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "fair")>><</if>><</if>> <<if $Fskin == "olive">> <<if $Mskin == "black">> <<set $Skin = either("golden", "olive", "black")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "white">> <<set $Skin = either("white", "fair", "olive")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "latin">> <<set $Skin = either("olive", "fair")>><</if>> <<if $Mskin == "eastern">> <<set $Skin = either("fair", "olive")>><</if>><</if>> <<if $Fhairstyle == "wavy">><<set $Style = either("wavy", "curly", "straight")>><</if>> <<if $Fhairstyle == "straight">><<set $Style = either("wavy", "straight")>><</if>> <<if $Fhairstyle == "curly">><<set $Style = either("wavy", "curly")>><</if>> <<set $Eyes = either($Meyes, $Feyes)>> <<set _parentsOptions = {}>> <<set _wealthOptions = { "they earned a lot and I reaped the benefits" : 4, "they made sure I had the newest shiny things; everyone else was stuck with holdovers from the 90's" : 3, "thanks to hand-me-downs and generosity" : 2, "when there was anything extra, it was mine" : 1, "what little there was ended up in my lap, no one else had anything at all" : 0 }>> <<if $Mtrait == "money">> <<set _wealthOptions['because the bank account seemed bottomless'] = 5>><</if>> <<if $Mother == "loved">><<set $bank = 3>> <<set _parentsOptions['even though there was a gaping hole'] = 'separated'>> <<if $Father !== "gone">> <<set _parentsOptions['and home felt full'] = 'together'>> <</if>> <<if $Father !== "loving">> <<set _parentsOptions['though the day to day was rough'] = 'hurt'>><</if>><</if>> <<if $Mother == "young">> <<set _parentsOptions = { "There was a revolving door of 'dads' in my life" : 'separated', }>> <<if $Father !== "gone">> <<set _parentsOptions["They struggled too, and we made it through"] = 'together'>> <<set _parentsOptions["Because she didn't know how to handle him -- he handled us"] = 'hurt'>><</if>> <<if $Father !== "loving">> <<set _parentsOptions["Because now, Mom realized she didn't want me"] = "adopted">><</if>><</if>> <<if $Mother == "unwanted">> <<set _parentsOptions = { "Me coming into the world broke them" : 'separated', "But I didn't need much reminding. I wear the scars every day" : 'hurt' }>> <<if $Father !== "gone">> <<set _parentsOptions["I was a by-product of them, and ''they'' certainly seemed happy"] = 'together'>><</if>> <<if $Father !== "loving">> <<set _parentsOptions["And that's about the only reference I have for them"] = "adopted">> <</if>><</if>> <<if $Mother == "hated">> <<set _parentsOptions = { 'until she decided to just leave it all behind. Out of sight, out of mind' : 'separated', }>> <<if $Father !== "gone">> <<set _parentsOptions['and I was a pawn between them, or shoved to the sidelines'] = 'together'>> <<set _parentsOptions['or, more appropriately, I was the battlefield'] = 'hurt'>> <<if $Father !== "loving">> <<set _parentsOptions['even from the moment I left that house'] = 'adopted'>><</if>><</if>><</if>> <<if $Mother == "family">> <<set _parentsOptions = { 'Except to my grandparents, who helped out' : 'separated', 'Still, in special moments, my head got to peek above the pack' : 'together' }>> <<if $Father == "loving">> <<set _parentsOptions['Except to Dad'] = 'together'>> <</if>> <<if $Father == "abusive">> <<set _parentsOptions["Since Dad's attention was so fickle, and focused"] = 'hurt'>> <</if>> <<if $Father !== "loving" && $Father !== "gone">> <<set _parentsOptions['And she clutched onto us to keep every semblance of togetherness'] = 'together'>><</if>> <</if>> <</silently>> <</nobr>> Well. That's where this //agent// -- I can't stop laughing when I say that -- grew up. <<nobr>> <<if $Mother == "loved">><<set $spoiled to true>> <br> It was warm and I certainly was doted upon. I had anything I wanted, <<cycle "$wealth" autoselect>> <<optionsfrom _wealthOptions>> <</cycle>>. <br><br> Growing up felt complete, <<cycle "$parents" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _parentsOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> I honestly can't complain. Or, really, [[shouldn't|CC006 - Homelife]]. <<elseif $Mother == "young">> <br> It was a struggle. <br><br> Some times I had to be the adult, long before I should have. <<cycle "$parents" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _parentsOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> But honestly, I wouldn't be who I am today without [[the journey|CC006 - Homelife]], right? And I had a model of what to avoid. <<elseif $Mother == "unwanted">> <br> I was watching home videos -- don't ask me why. Dad was in a digitization phase. <br><br> In the videos, seeing the look on her face, you could tell energy between them was fucking ebullient. <br><br> And there's one, the day that I was brought home that answered the question if I was a mistake. <<cycle "$parents" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _parentsOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> But I'm here, for better or worse, and still have [[to keep going|CC006 - Homelife]]. <<elseif $Mother == "hated">> <br> The fact that I'm here today is an absolute miracle. <br><br> It was a battlefield every day, <<cycle "$parents" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _parentsOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> But I'm thankful for it, because that home gave me bearings on [[the world|CC006 - Homelife]], especially the life I found myself in. <<elseif $Mother == "family">> <br> It was raucous and lively, that's for sure. <br><br> But a part of me always felt I was a number, not so much any 'special addition' to the brood. <<cycle "$parents" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _parentsOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> But it made for interesting times and a lot of [[opportunities|CC006 - Homelife]]. <</if>> <</nobr>> <</replace>><</link>>? </div><<nobr>><<silently>> <<set _rents = false>> <<if $parents == "together" || $parents == "hurt">> <<set $Mom = 1>><<set $Dad = 1>><<set _rents = true>> <</if>> <<if $parents == "adopted">> <<set $Mom = 0>><<set $Dad = 0>><<set _rents = true>> <</if>> <<if $parents == "separated" && $Mother == "hated">> <<set $Mom = 0>><<set $Dad = 1>><<set _rents = true>> <</if>> <<if _rents == false>> <<set $Mom = 1>><<set $Dad = 0>> <<if $Father == "gone">><<set $Dad = 2>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Mom == 0>> <<set $MName = "Emily">> <<else>> <<set $MName = "Elle">> <</if>> <<if $Dad == 0>> <<set $DName = "Arvin">> <<set $EDName = "Jake">> <<else>> <<set $DName = "Jake">> <</if>><</silently>> <<if $Mother !== "loved">> As far as being a have or have-not, <<cycle "$bank">> <<option "beg, borrow, or steal, we did what we had to do to survive" 0>> <<option "there were some scary moments" 1>> <<option "there were good times and bad" 2>> <<option "it was nothing lavish, but we never suffered" 3>> <<option "we had more than most" 4>> <</cycle>>. <</if>> <<if $parents == "together">> <<if $Mother == "unwanted" || "hated">> <<set $Confident -->><<set $Risky ++>> <<set $Suggestible ++>> <br><br> While I was ''there'', I quickly learned to be invisible. <br><br> And that had its advantages. You want alone time? Easy. You want to go out? They weren't calling your ass wondering when you were getting home. <br><br> It was nice to see them together. <br><br> In its own weird way, that was a healthy and <<linkreplace "good model for me." t8n>>good model for me. <br><br> I saw other homes and…well at least I was fed, clothed, and they were dependable. Even if it took me asking sometimes. <br><br> When Mom traveled for work -- and <<print $MName>> did it a lot -- I actually had a great time. <br><br> It afforded me time that was just me and, <<print $DName>>, Dad. It was different and nice. <br><br> Sure, there was a sense of a vacancy waiting to be filled, but we were compatriots holding down the fort in the meantime. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>> <<else>> <<set $Risky -->><<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $Stable += 2>> <br><br> It's weird to think of having an 'idealized' family. <br><br> It wasn't some black-and-white thing, but compared to how every representation now is blended or fractured or...whatever. <br><br> My sandwiches, sure, were cut corner to corner -- the best way. <<print $EDName>>, my dad showed up and on-time. <br><br> Okay, it was stifling from time to time, sure. It was warm, though. It was comfy. It still makes me <<linkreplace "smile." t8n>>smile. <br><br> Thank <<if $freetime == "church">>God<<else>>god<</if>> for stability. <br><br> When Mom traveled was an interesting time -- and <<print $MName>> did it a lot. <br><br> It gave me some moments where it was just me and Dad. It was different and nice. <br><br> Sure, there was a sense of a vacancy we were both waiting to be filled, but we were compatriots holding down the fort. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>> <</if>> <<elseif $parents == "adopted">> <<set $Stable -= 2>> <br><br> They weren't my parents. Biologically. And you feel it, maybe at a genetic level. <<cycle "$Adoptive">> <<option "My grandparents" "grandparents">> <<option "My uncle" "uncle">> <<option "The foster system" "foster">><</cycle>> took care of me well enough. <br><br> It was all I knew, so I can't say whether it was 'normal' or the same feeling of 'home' as anyone else has. <br><br> And it definitely was something whispered just out of earshot. I got glances, suspicion -- curiosity. And pity. <br><br> Yet, here I am! Funny how it all shakes out in the wash, <<linkreplace "eh?" t8n>>eh? <br><br> The topic of *them". <br><br> The 'others,' the ones from before, came up from time to time, especially when I was younger and understood the relationship but not quite the __why__ of it. <br><br> There was a bit of a sigh and carefully planned responses, as it they had prepared this from the beginning. <br><br> And they only really talked about -- blamed -- my Dad, Jake. They skirted the topic of, Elle, Mom. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>> <<elseif $parents == "hurt">> <<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $Easy ++>> <br><br> Look. I don't want to talk about it. <br><br> It wasn't forever. Clearly. It was home. <br><br> Now it's not. Rearview mirror and whatnot. <br><br> Let's move on. <<linkreplace "Nothing" t8n>>Nothing to see here. <br><br> Why? <br><br> Well, when ''your'' mom gallants to the ends of the Earth like a perpetual motion machine and you're left to deal with everything else? <br><br> Then we can have a frank conversation. How about that. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>> <<elseif $parents == "separated">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $Risky ++>> <<if $Mother == "hated">> <br><br> <<print $DName>> took care of me as best he could. <br><br> There was a look in his eye of "I'm sorry, <<print $Name>>." <br><br> Maybe I'm putting that on him and that's not fair. Ultimately, I love him and he certainly loved me -- besides the other women in his life. <br><br> It's weird, but in a way, I think we both can thank dear old Elle for being the cause for us forming that bond. <br><br> Would I have wanted it another way? I don't know. Whatever damage she caused, whatever he or I lost out on because of her, I can only imagine how much worse it would have been if she <<linkreplace "had been there." t8n>>had been there. <br><br> I asked about her. <br><br> Once. <br><br> And all I could register was pain, and a deep-seated reason why there was no answer. <br><br> He knew, but he didn't want me to. To protect me. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>> <<elseif $Mother == "young">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $Stable -->> <br><br> I'm not going to try and explain why Elle was the way she was. <br><br> Other parents and people certainly tried to do that and I'll leave it to them. <br><br> I can say we had a fun and interesting household and I certainly bonded with her in ways that only could have happened because we weren't that far apart. <br><br> We weren't that different. When someone mentions "dad," it isn't the guy that made me -- Jake -- that's for sure. <br><br> And. Maybe there are a few different ones that pop into my mind. <br><br> In some ways that was super cool, because there wasn't some father complex or over-protectiveness. <br><br> And overall, she <<linkreplace "seemed happy." t8n>>seemed happy. <br><br> The only time I saw a crack in that facade was when she returned from a junket -- she traveled a ton. <br><br> And a new man on her arm wouldn't have been surprising. <br><br> I think that's why I was able to see the shift in her eyes as she relaxed back into being here, at home, with me. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>> <<else>> It was mostly Mom's world and we were living in it. <br><br> She decided when Dad got time -- whether it was weekends, this week or that week, this break or that month -- consistency be damned. <br><br> At times, it felt like badminton and I was the shuttlecock. <br><br> No, not tennis. I wasn't flying at crazy speeds, I was more...<<linkreplace "on the float." t8n>>on the float. <br><br> I'm not totally reliant on those two. Thank <<if $freetime == "church">>God<<else>>god<</if>>. <br><br> And no, for all their apparent disagreements, the court was not __that__ involved in my life, I assure you. <br><br> That's how we [[lived|CC007 - HomeVign1]].<</linkreplace>><</if>><</if>><</nobr>>There was one moment early on that stuck out to me. No promises on the accuracy or remembering the details, because who knows how those memories form early on -- was it real, was it reinforced by storytelling? Hell, what is memory anyway. I'm not a damn <<linkreplace "philosopher." t8n>>philosopher. I had grabbed all my dolls and gone down to the basement. I was playing where I shouldn't be. It was dark, it was dingy. It definitely wasn't //safe//. If it was colder weather, the heater would have surely burned my back. Luckily, it <<linkreplace "wasn't." t8n>>wasn't. I don't know why I wanted to be down there. Not exactly an ideal playground. But the dark didn't scare me. The dirt didn't bother me. Deep into my own self involved scenario with my dolls, I don't remember hearing the frenzied steps above me as I sat on the cold, bare concrete. What is vivid, though, was the instant fear: hairs standing on the back of my neck when the basement door swung open. Immediately, panic set in knowing I was where I should not be. Daddy could be a little short-tempered. "<<print $Name>>! <<print $Name>>?!" It was <<print $DName>>. "This isn't funny, girlie." I <<linkreplace "held my breath.">>held my breath. Pressed up against the heater, I carefully peered around it, watching their feet descend the staircase. Each footfall was louder, approaching, making my heart race. I didn't move. <<print $MName>> followed shortly behind, but there was a different urgency to <<linkreplace "her pace." t8n>>her pace. Luckily, they didn't find me. Five minutes later, I appeared back upstairs -- much to their surprise. They sat there bewildered, wondering if they had experienced some sort of hallucination. They could have ''sworn'' they heard me in the basement playing. What stuck with me wasn't getting away with playing in the basement, really. It was when <<print $DName>> had reached the basement floor. He turned around slowly, searching for me until he threw his arms up in defeat. Stomping back up the steps he muttered, "Well, I think we know where she got this disappearing act from. I guess we should get <<linkreplace "used to it." t8n>>used to it." Luckily, there was something beyond that basement, besides that home: the [[world|CC008 - TownLife]].<</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><<if $hometown == "NO">> <<set $Stable ++>> <<set $Suggestible ++>> <<set $Sophisticated -->> <a class="border img"><img src="img/NO.png"></a> Growing up in that little backwater was like having a large family. No one left, generation after generation, so the community was tight-knit which in some ways was nice. There wasn't much 'new' or 'exciting,' though, so only the slightest of nudges to the needle felt like a massive upheaval. A new store. An invasion by a wild pack of trash pandas (raccoons) that were terrorizing local dumpsters. There really wasn't <<linkreplace "shit to do." t8n>> shit to do. I planned to skee-daddle out of butt-fucking Egypt, but until then, I kept sane by: <div id = "freetime"> ...hanging out, partying in fields and <<hover>><<link "barns">><<replace "#freetime">><<set $freetime = "barn">><br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life.<</hover>>. ...sticking around home, alone or with <<hover>><<link "friends">><<set $freetime = "home">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life.<</hover>>. ...speeding around town, causing <<hover>><<link "mischief">><<set $freetime = "vandal">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life.<</hover>>. ...helping out with home projects or at neighbors <<hover>><<link "farms">><<set $freetime = "helper">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life.<</hover>>. ...focusing on local church and its <<hover>><<link "groups">><<set $freetime = "church">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life.<</hover>>. </div> <</linkreplace>> <<else>> <<nobr>> <<set $Stable -->> <<set $Suggestible -->> <<set $Sophisticated ++>> <<if $hometown == "WA">> <a class="border img"><img src="img/WA.png"></a> <</if>> <<if $hometown == "NY">> <a class="border img"><img src="img/NY.png"></a> <</if>> <<if $hometown == "AL">> <a class="border img"><img src="img/AL.png"></a> <</if>> <<if $hometown == "LA">> <a class="border img"><img src="img/LA.png"></a> <</if>> <</nobr>> Growing up in a city was insane! Stimulation was __everywhere__ -- there was <<linkreplace "shit to do." t8n>>shit to do. Yet, coming with all of the excitement and opportunity, there was an ever-present danger that kept you looking over your shoulder. There were times when shit got so bad you wished for a simpler life. It felt chaotic, for sure, but you found people to connect with and bond. My assembled crew: <div id = "freetime"> ...hopped from home to home, or whatever space we could find to have some <<hover>><<link "fun">><<set $freetime = "partier">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. ...always were over at my place, watching some movies or playing some <<hover>><<link "games">><<set $freetime = "home">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. ...were, well, a gang. We tagged shit, we did some stupid stuff, but we could hold our <<hover>><<link "own">><<set $freetime = "gang">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. ...were a community I built doing volunteer work. Kind and <<hover>><<link "warm">><<set $freetime = "volunteer">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. ...were my team. Exerting ourselves together, winning or losing, always keeps you <<hover>><<link "tight-knit">><<set $freetime = "sporty">><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. <<nobr>> <<if $hometown == "LA">>...were on the beach! Sand between my toes, sun bronzing my skin, the salty air, it was all <<hover>><<link "fun to me">><<set $freetime = 'beach'>><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<<replace "#freetime">><</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. <</if>> <<if $hometown == "NY">>...were a fluid group. But we all had our contacts, or a fake ID, anything to get into a hot spot, club, bar, or <<hover>><<link "pop-up">><<set $freetime = 'club'>><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. <</if>> <<if $hometown == "AL">>...tailgated with me. On a flatbed or fold-out chair for the next <<hover>><<link "Auburn game">><<set $freetime = 'tailgate'>><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. <</if>> <<if $hometown == "WA">>...were down to strap on some boots and a pack and get our trek on. When it wasn't raining, and sometimes when it was, we were on a trail or camping or <<hover>><<link "climbing">><<set $freetime = 'outdoors'>><<replace "#freetime">><br><br> And I was glad to have them. Kept me occupied and //relatively// out of trouble. Right? <br><br> Because otherwise -- I'm not looking to just open the floodgates about why I am who I am, Oh the trauma, blah, blah...this isn't therapy -- most of my time was spent at [[school|CC009 - School]].<</replace>><</link>><<tip>>Choices like these guide later options for her life. <</hover>>. <</if>> <</nobr>> </div> <</linkreplace>> <</if>><<nobr>> <<set $Looks = $Mlooks + $Flooks>> <<set _hairOpts = { }>> <<if $Fhair == "blonde" || $Mhair == "blonde">> <<set _hairOpts['blonde'] = 'blonde'>> <</if>> <<if $Fhair == "blonde" || $Mhair == "brown">> <<set _hairOpts['brunette'] = 'brown'>> <</if>> <<if $Fhair == "red" || $Mhair == "red">> <<set _hairOpts['redhead'] = 'red'>> <</if>> <<if $Fhair == "black" || $Mhair == "black">> <<set _hairOpts['raven-haired'] = 'black'>> <</if>> <<if $bank == 0>> <<set $wealth -= 3>> <</if>> <<if $bank == 1>> <<set $wealth -= 2>> <</if>> <<if $bank == 2>> <<set $wealth -->> <</if>> <<if $bank == 4>> <<set $wealth ++>> <</if>> <<if $Mtrait == "money">> <<set $wealth ++>> <</if>><</nobr>> There I was, my first day of school, a tangle of <<print $Style>> <<cycle "$Hair" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _hairOpts>> <</cycle>> hair with wide <<print $Eyes>> eyes, barely able to contain my <<cycle "$firstday">> <<option "fear">> <<option "excitement">> <<option "confusion">> <</cycle>>. Wiping those emotional tears from my cheeks, I made my way into the classroom -- from what I've been told -- from the first moments I was ''enamored'' by <<hover>><<cycle "$schoolinterest">> <<option "boys. I had a crush on one kid, Petey, almost instantly. I found myself confused throughout my years when someone mentioned 'cooties'." "boys">> <<option "my teachers. How they knew so much, and led so self-assuredly. I focused on them with rapt attention." "power">> <<option "learning! Everything put in front of me was so fascinating. It opened so many doors. I was ravenous for new knowledge." "new">> <<option "the other students. Making friends, playing games with them, and just getting to know people became the focus of my attention. My lessons definitely suffered, though." "people">> <<option "nothing. I kept to myself. Never saying much, I did my work because I had to. It wasn't inspired. I wanted to be out truly living life -- unregimented, unrestricted." "free">> <<option "recess. It meant getting away from tests and lessons. I was a bit competitive. Nothing felt greater than getting my heart pumping and getting all sweaty." "active">> <<option "books. I was a voracious reader. Staying up late reading into the wee hours. I may have even had my book inside the cover of the textbook I was supposed to be reading. Those textbooks never got my full attention." "books">> <<option "trouble. I craved attention, ask any shrink. Textbook case of attention starved especially as I loved being bad. My name was on the bad list and it stayed there." "trouble">><</cycle>><<tip>>Some choices affect who she is OR stats and skills, like here.<</hover>> And it's where I made my <<linkreplace "first friend." t8n>>first friend, a <<cycle "$FFsex">> <<option "boy" "M">> <<option "girl" "F">> <</cycle>>, named <<textbox "$FFName" "Taylor">>. We were [[inseparable|CC010 - Youth]].<</linkreplace>><<silently>><<unset $bank>><</silently>> <<if $wealth == 2>><<set $Stable -->> <<elseif $wealth lt 2>><<set $Stable -= 2>> <<elseif $wealth == 4>><<set $Stable ++>> <<elseif $wealth gt 4>><<set $Stable += 2>> <</if>> <<nobr>> <<set _activityOptions = { 'at the library, nestled in a corner with a book' : 'read', 'nothing. Surprisingly, I was allowed to roam wild doing whatever I wanted with whomever' : 'none', 'sent to the park to stay outside and join in with the neighborhood kids.' : 'play', }>> <<if $wealth gt 2>> <<set _activityOptions["dancing, focusing on posture and exactness -- and the occasional recital"] = 'dance'>> <</if>> <<if $wealth gt 2>> <<set _activityOptions["plunking at the ivories, working on scales and intervals -- and the occasional recital"] = 'piano'>> <</if>> <<if $wealth gt 3>> <<set _activityOptions["gymnastics, learning how to tumble, vault and straining the limits of flexibility and strength"] = 'gym'>> <</if>> <<if $firstday == "fear">> <<set $Confident -->>There was something about the day-to-day that kept me <<linkreplace "on edge." t8n>>on edge. <br><br> The upcoming test -- <<if $freetime !== "church">>hell<<else>>heck<</if>>, the pop quiz I was always sure was about to happen. The other kids. Life decisions -- it always felt like I was making decisions for a future me that I didn't know. <br><br> So…that was my experience. A little bit of dread, a sprinkle of playing sick, and a pinch of opting out when I could. <br><br> Did it make things easier? Not on my adrenal glands, that's for sure.<</linkreplace>> <</if>> <<if $firstday == "excitement">> <<set $Excitable ++>> <<if $freetime !== "church">>Fuck.<</if>> I <<linkreplace "loved school." t8n>>loved school. <br> <br> Being scheduled was annoying. There were various things to keep me occupied: people to talk to, things to try, and experiences to be had. I hardly wanted to leave. <br> <br> A couple times, they had to literally drag me off the premises. <br> <br> No one understood why I was so passionate about school, but then again no one really asked either. <br> <br> It was more of those confused looks or "who is this chick" kind of reactions. Meh. <<if $freetime !== "church">>Fuck 'em.<</if>><</linkreplace>> <</if>> <<if $firstday == "confusion">><<set $Excitable -->> I never really understood it. There was <<linkreplace "a lot going on." t8n>>a lot going on. A lot of competing asks of my time and attention. Honestly, too many. <br><br> Other kids gobbled it up, but I was far more comfortable in my silo with my set group, set plan, set schedule. <br><br> Consistency made it all easier for me.<</linkreplace>> <</if>> <br><br> <<linkreplace "School itself?" t8n>> <<if $schoolinterest == "boys">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $wiles ++>> There was a bit of name calling and things written on textbooks and lockers -- "For a good time call <<print $Name>>" on the girl's bathroom mirror. <br><br> I know it was just catty jealousy but in the end it just ingratiated me even more with the opposite sex. <br><br> Not having very many female friends was easily overcome by the guys beating down my door. <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "power">> <<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $deception ++>> Don't call me a teacher's pet. <br><br> My grades weren't stellar, I didn't try to be their favorite, and I didn't answer every question. <br><br> I wasn't ''that'' kid. So don't give me any of that crap. I got enough of that razzing from everyone else. <br><br> I was more like their friend. I learned how and why they became a teacher and what interested them. The teachers weren't //that// much older than us anyway... <br><br> Well, some of them. <br><br> Despite a few eyebrows I got for having "adult" friends, I got a little insight on an upcoming test from time to time. So it had additional benefits. <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "new">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Stable -->> Yes, I knew the answer. I knew all the answers. <br><br> That's why my hand went up. ''I'' studied. Just like I was expected to. <br><br> The teacher would get tired of calling on me because I was right again and again. What'd I do? <br><br> Fine then, teach. I'll just use my phone and answer that text from <<print $FFName>>. <br><br> After that, I'd whip out my planner and figure out the weekend plans. No skin off my back. <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "people">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Confident ++>> It was between class where I flourished. <br><br> Out of the classroom and into the social arena was my 'schooling'. I was learning the most important skill in life: how to live with others. <br><br> And people can give you a pretty good mirror to see yourself. <br><br> You'd think that not being the best at school would make you an outcast. It's the opposite. You can become a social __god__ with a big network, connecting people rather than being nose-down studying. School is all about networking. <br><br> And connections can never hurt. <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "free">> <<set $learning -->><<set $Excitable ++>><<set $Stable -->> Those first few years weren't bad. <br><br> What activity station did I want to play? What were my favorite colors? All those silly childhood questions. Then came the drudgery. <br><br> Who cares about times tables or what year the Civil War happened in? <br><br> As the years passed in school, slowly but surely, there was more flexibility outside of the classroom and more opportunities to do the things I enjoyed. <br><br> Just had to make sure bad marks on the report card didn't get the freedoms I enjoyed get revoked. <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "active">> <<set $athletics ++>><<set $coordination ++>> Recess in how long? When was the next free period? Oh, and PE! <br><br> Yeah, maybe I got called 'butch' or a 'dyke.' Yeah, I left them red or flat-faced. Everyone started laughing at me, but the impressed nods and new laughs afterward were more than worth it. <br><br> Who says a girl can't hang? I live above the rim. Dunkin' on fools. <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "books">> <<set $learning ++>><<set $investigation ++>><<set $Sophisticated ++>> You'd think with the amount of paper that I consumed I would have had the best grades of anyone in my class. <br><br> Frequently when I raised my hand or gave a short answer it was off-topic. Or at best, overly-thorough and...adjacent to the topic at hand. <br><br> I couldn't tell you the number of times I trailed off as I realized I was getting dead stares from everyone, including the teacher. <br><br> But, it was fascinating, right? <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "trouble">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $deception ++>> Detention. There was a seat reserved for me every day. <br><br> I turned my textbooks into works of art with graffiti, silly notes, and unnecessary commentary scattered throughout the margins. <br><br> There was that one teacher that seemed to get me. Never discussed class, grades, what I was wearing or what I had just done. Just gave me the space to be me, and some opportunities to get by without following the rules 'expressly as intended'. <br><br> But most of them were furious with me. Easily offended and quick to write me up again and again. <</if>> <br><br> Outside of school, <<if $Risky gt 0>>to keep me out of trouble<<else>>to keep me occupied<</if>>, I was mostly: <<hover>><<cycle "$activity" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _activityOptions>><</cycle>><<tip>>And finally, some choices are focused on developing her skills.<</hover>><</linkreplace>> <br><br> <<if $FFsex == "M">> Having a guy friend was...<<linkreplace "complicated." t8n>>complicated. <br><br> <<print $FFName>> and I were in lock-step. There were others that were like us in our clique that got along well-enough, but with him it was different. We were simpatico. <br><br> I don't think it was because he was a guy. There were other guys I would call friend, too. It wasn't just that we jived. We //got// each other. <br><br> People thought we were dating. ''Insisted''. Knew we were just hiding it. And guys were jealous. <br><br> And he got ribbed (and probably some high-fives that he just shook his head about). <br><br> And changing bodies <<linkreplace "changed things." t8n>>changed things. <<if $Mtrait == "looks" && $Ftrait == "looks">> <<set $Looks += 2>> <br><br> As I grew into myself, I found my name on quite a few 'Hottest Girls' lists that were left lying around. <br><br> There was a surprisingly natural distance between guys my age. They put me on a pedestal because of my looks -- and I don't know if it was my age, their fear, or just being intimated. So the space left by guys was quickly crowded with girls. <br><br> Even <<print $FFName>> developed an awkward attitude with me. <<elseif $Mtrait == "looks" || $Ftrait == "looks">> <<set $Looks ++>> <br><br> Girl becomes woman, I guess, and as things...developed, I found people whispering to <<print $FFName>> about them liking me, or asking if I was single...and if they had a shot. <br><br> Was I interested in them by chance? Check yes or no? I didn't understand the hype but something was changing in my social network and they were noticing me more than anyone else. <</if>> <br><br> And then [[puberty|CC011 - Puberty]] hit.<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $FFsex == "F">> Being friends with girls was <<linkreplace "tough." t8n>>tough. <br><br> <<print $FFName>> and I were in lock-step. <br><br> There were others that were like us, in our clique, or just got along well-enough, but with her it was different. <br><br> We liked the same things, and it wasn't some sycophant kind of thing. I wasn't some 'yes-girl' and she certainly wasn't either. It just felt comfortable with her. Sister-like. <br><br> It was incredible too, how with just one look, we knew exactly what the other was thinking. That's how aligned we were. <br><br> And changing bodies <<linkreplace "changed things." t8n>>changed things. <<if $Mtrait == "looks" && $Ftrait == "looks">> <<set $Looks += 2>> <br><br> As I grew into myself, I found my name on quite a few 'Hottest Girls' lists that were left lying around. <br><br> And there was surprising distance between me and guys my age, fear, intimidation, I don't know what to call it, but the way I looked put me on pedestal. And the space left by the guys became crowded by the girls. <br><br> <<print $FFName>> clearly didn't like the new balance of things. <br><br> I think she felt overshadowed. I didn't want to do any shadowing! <<elseif $Mtrait == "looks" || $Ftrait == "looks">> <<set $Looks ++>> <br><br> Girl becomes woman, I guess, and as things...developed, I found people whispering to <<print $FFName>> about them liking me, or asking if I was single...and if they had a shot. <br><br> Was I interested in them by chance? Check yes or no? I didn't understand the hype but something was changing in my social network and they were noticing me more than anyone else. <</if>> <br><br> And then [[puberty|CC011 - Puberty]] hit.<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>> <</if>> <</nobr>><<silently>><<unset $firstday, $Mlooks, $Flooks, $Meyes, $Feyes, $Mhair, $Fhair, $Mskin, $Fskin>> <<nobr>> <<run $inherited = [$Mtrait, $Ftrait]>> <<run $inherited.delete("money"); $inherited.delete("looks")>> <<set _potential = ["Awkward", "Smart", "Funny", "Confident", "Popular", "Slutty"]>> <<if $inherited.length < 2>> <<run $inherited.pushUnique(_potential.pluck())>> <</if>> <<if $inherited.length < 2>> <<run $inherited.pushUnique(_potential.pluck())>> <</if>> <<if $activity == "play">> <<set $social += 2>> <</if>> <<if $activity == "gym">> <<set $athletics += 2>> <</if>> <<if $activity == "piano">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $performance ++>><<set $coordination ++>> <</if>> <<if $activity == "dance">> <<set $performance ++>><<set $athletics ++>><<set $coordination ++>> <</if>> <<if $activity == "read">> <<set $learning += 2>> <</if>> <<set _heightOpts = { 'about five-five' : 0 }>> <<if $Mheight gt 1 && $Fheight gt 1>> <<set _heightOpts['an Amazon'] = +2>> <</if>> <<if $Mheight gt 1 || $Fheight gt 1>> <<set _heightOpts['tall'] = +1>> <</if>> <<if $Mheight lt 1 || $Fheight lt 1>> <<set _heightOpts['short'] = -1>> <</if>> <<if $Mheight lt 1 && $Fheight lt 1>> <<set _heightOpts['under five foot'] = -2>> <</if>> <<set _sexOpts = { 'boys. God, I could feel a clench in my lower abdomen when I caught eye contact. The way they filled out those jeans. Their disheveled hair that needed a cut. Ooh, their strong hands.' : 1, 'an attraction in other people. Good looking is good looking.' : 0 }>> <<if $schoolinterest !== "boys">> <<set _sexOpts['other girls. The bounce in their hair and it how it cascaded down their slender shoulders. The supple curves developing in all the right places. Their innocent smiles. Cute smiles. Sweet smiles.'] = -1>> <</if>> <<set _attOpts = { }>> <<if $Looks == 9>> <<set _attOpts['overwhelming attention'] = 6>> <</if>> <<if $Looks lt 3>> <<set _attOpts['very little attention'] = 1>> <<set _attOpts['average attention'] = 2>> <</if>> <<if $Looks gt 2 and $Looks lt 6>> <<set _attOpts['average attention'] = 2>> <<set _attOpts['a good bit of attention'] = 3>> <<set _attOpts['more attention than other girls got'] = 4>> <</if>> <<if $Looks gt 5 and $Looks lt 9>> <<set _attOpts['envyable amounts of attention'] = 4>> <<set _attOpts['literally constant attention'] = 5>> <</if>> <</nobr>><</silently>> And it ''hit''. It felt like all of a sudden, I was <<cycle "$Height" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _heightOpts>><</cycle>> and I couldn't help but really beginning to notice <<cycle "$Sexuality" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _sexOpts>> <</cycle>>. My development certainly now aroused <<listbox "$Attractiveness" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _attOpts>><</listbox>> from guys. The "puppylove" of just months before fell away to constant daydreaming, watching porn, and thinking about how good of a kisser somebody was the first time I met them. It was insane. Hormones are [[insane|CC012 - Body]].<<nobr>> <<run setup.traits = [ "Fantastic Tits", "Amazing Ass", "Striking Eyes", "Perfect Smile", "Actor-level Bone Structure", "Modelesque Legs", "An Ineffable Charm", "Smoky Voice", "Easy, Unwavering Fitness" ]>> <<if $Bodytraits.length gte $Attractiveness>> One day, looking at myself in the mirror, I actually gave myself an honest appraisal. Fighting back my body dysmorphia, I smiled and shook my head, impressed to see:<br><br> <<nobr>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Fantastic Tits")>>Tits that didn't need a bra? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Amazing Ass")>>Pert rear with a grabbable meatiness? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Striking Eyes")>>Big <<print $Eyes>>s that drew you in? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Perfect Smile")>>A smile that could kill? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Actor-level Bone Structure")>>Symmetry and cheekbones to die for? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Modelesque Legs")>>Lithe legs that cried out for dresses and skirts? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("An Ineffable Charm")>>A crazy likeability factor? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Smoky Voice")>>A voice that rivalled ScarJo? Check.<br><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("Easy, Unwavering Fitness")>>The ability to eat whatever I want and still look //fuckable//? Check.<br><</if>><</nobr>> <br><br> It wasn't simply how I looked that was firming up, but also my personality. Argue about nature versus nurture all you want, there were certainly some personality traits I exhibited that seemed hard-coded in. <br><br> <<if $Traits.length gt 0>> In particular, how I <<if $Traits.includes("Popular")>>had tons of friends<</if>><<if $Traits.includes("Smart")>>did well in school without trying<</if>><<if $Traits.includes("Funny")>>tended to be the class clown<</if>><<if $Traits.includes("Awkward")>>wasn't too sure of myself<</if>><<if $Traits.includes("Confident")>>knew exactly who I was<</if>><<if $Traits.includes("Slutty")>>was comfortable with my body<</if>>, just seemed to be...me. Nothing I could do about it. Body, behavior, all part and parcel of who I now was -- I had to get used to this whole new [[package|CC013 - FinalForm]] <<else>> <<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _gene range $inherited>> <<capture _gene>> <<button _gene _nav>><<run $Traits.push(_gene)>><</button>><</capture>><br> <</for>> <</if>> <<else>> These changes were new, deeply interesting, but also scary. And guys found them //very// interesting. <br><br> And at the time, I couldn't quite pin down what it was that drew them to me -- hell, they probably couldn't either. My brain didn't care about the 'why,' just that it __was__. <br><br> But as I've calmed down and the newness wore off, I've come to learn that it always seemed centered on specific...''ahem''...aspects. <br><br> <<hover>><<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _trait range setup.traits>> <<if ! $Bodytraits.includes(_trait)>> <<capture _trait>> <<button _trait _nav>> <<run $Bodytraits.push(_trait)>> <</button>> <</capture>> <br> <</if>> <</for>><<tip>>Just like Claire's genes, here, once you select, it's locked in!<</hover>> <</if>><</nobr>><<nobr>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Fantastic Tits")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Fantastic Tits")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("tits")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Fantastic Tits")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Amazing Ass")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("ass")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Striking Eyes")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Striking Eyes")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("eyes")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Perfect Smile")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Perfect Smile")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("smile")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Actor-level Bone Structure")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Actor-level Bone Structure")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("face")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Modelesque Legs")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Modelesque Legs")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("legs")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("An Ineffable Charm")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("An Ineffable Charm")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("charm")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Smoky Voice")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Smoky Voice")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("voice")>> <</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("Easy, Unwavering Fitness")>> <<run $Bodytraits.delete("Easy, Unwavering Fitness")>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("fit")>> <</if>> <<if $Traits.includesAny("Awkward", "Quirky")>><<set $social -->><<set $Easy -->><</if>> <<if $Traits.includes("Smart")>><<set $learning ++>><</if>> <<if $Traits.includes("Funny")>><<set $performance ++>><<set $Stable -->><</if>> <<if $Traits.includes("Confident")>><<set $social ++>><<set $Suggestible -->><</if>> <<if $Traits.includes("Popular")>><<set $social ++>><<set $Risky -->><</if>> <<if $Traits.includes("Slutty")>><<set $Easy ++>><<set $Risky ++>><</if>> <<set $Tits = either("small", "medium", "large")>> <<set _pubes = { "natural, as intended" : "bush", "manicured and trimmed" : "bikini", "just enough to show I was old enough" : "strip", "silky smooth and hairless" : "bald" }>> <<set _fert = { }>> <<if $Stable gt $Suggestible && $Stable gt $Risky && $Stable gt $Easy>> <<set _fert["Guys hate condoms that much was clear. They don't feel good. So, the safest option? Birth control."] = 0>> <<set _fert["Why did this rest solely on me? Condoms should suffice. All the information and opinions out there supports that."] = 1>> <<elseif $Suggestible gt $Risky && $Suggestible gt $Easy>> <<set _fert["My parents __insisted__ I take no risks."] = 0>> <<set _fert["The side effects of birth control are frightening. I'd be just fine with condoms."] = 1>> <<elseif $Risky gt $Easy>> <<set _fert["Scare tactics didn't work on this girl. I won't get knocked up. I got this on my own."] = 1>> <<set _fert["Sure, I should be using condoms...but who does. I wasn't insane though, so: birth control"] = 0>> <<elseif $Easy gt 0>> <<set _fert["Sex was going to be a part of my life. So would birth control."] = 0>> <<set _fert["I'm wasn't gonna abstain but I would only put something in me that is guaranteed fun."] = 1>> <<else>> <<set _fert["And kill my libido? No. No BC here."] = 1>> <<set _fert["Taking birth control is what most girls did. Made sense to me."] = 0>> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>> When all was said and done, I had developed quite a pair, if I did say so myself. I was incredibly proud of my <<cycle "$Tits">> <<option "super perky B's" "small">> <<option "firm and pert C's" "medium">> <<option "hefty D's without the hang" "large">> <<option "bras all disagreed, but everyone agreed they were massive" "huge">> <</cycle>> <<else>> When the changes settled down, genetics had left me <<print $Tits>> chested. <</if>> I maintained a healthy control over the flower patch <<linkreplace "between my legs." t8n>>between my legs. Society can dictate what is socially acceptable for downstairs maintenance with all the movies, models, magazines, boys, and girls suggesting the best lovescape. I controlled it as much as I could due to the shared showers and hot/heavy nights. As I experimented and decided on my preference, the razor worked its magic and found the waste basket, and I left myself... <div id="pubicbuttons"> <<include "pubicbuttons">> </div> <<linkreplace "Inside me, though? Shit." t8n>>Pregnancy was now my next big concern to handle. I didn't want that happening anytime soon. Or ever. <<cycle "$fertile" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _fert>><</cycle>>. At a certain point, I gave up fighting or crying over the changes, now I was [[someone|CC013 - FinalForm2]] else -- better get used to it. Yeah. Maybe I kinda liked the new me!<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><<nobr>> <<run setup.piercings = ["Left Ear", "Right Ear", "Left Cartilage", "Right Cartilage", "Navel", "Right Eyebrow", "Left Eyebrow", "Nostril"]>> <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Suggestible gt 0>> <<run setup.piercings.push("Left Nipple", "Right Nipple", "Tongue")>> <</if>> <<run setup.tattoos = ["Neck Nape", "Wrist", "Ankle", "Upper Arm", "Thigh", "Foot"]>> <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Suggestible gt 0>> <<run setup.tattoos.push("Mound", "Lower Back", "Sleeve")>> <</if>> <<run setup.undies = ["Bikini-style"]>> <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Suggestible gt 0>> <<run setup.undies.push("Thongs")>> <</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0 || $Easy gt 0>> <<run setup.undies.push("Commando")>> <</if>> <<set _groom = { 'A razor' : 3, 'wax' : 21 }>> <<if $wealth gt 2>> <<set _groom["laser treatment"] = 120>> <</if>> <<if $wealth gt 3>> <<set _groom["electrolysis"] = 720>> <</if>> <br><br> Time passed. The changes settled in and slowed down, ensuring me that I was closer to becoming a 'finished product'. <br> <br> With damn DNA controlling so much of who I was, I felt compelled to exert some control too. <br><br> Like piercings: <br> <br> <<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _piercing range setup.piercings>> <<if ! $Piercings.includes(_piercing)>> <<capture _piercing>> <<button _piercing _nav>><<run $Piercings.push(_piercing)>><</button>><</capture>><br> <</if>> <</for>> <br><br> <<if $Piercings.includesAny("Left Ear", "Right Ear", "Left Cartilage", "Right Cartilage", "Navel", "Right Eyebrow", "Left Eyebrow", "Nostril", "Left Nipple", "Right Nipple", "Tongue")>> And I had <<if $Piercings.includes("Left Ear")>> a couple in my left lobe;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Right Ear")>> a few in my right lobe;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Left Cartilage")>> pierced my left cartilage;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Right Cartilage")>> put one in my right cartilage;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Navel")>> gotten my bellybutton pierced;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Right Eyebrow") || $Piercings.includes("Left Eyebrow")>> pierced an eyebrow;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Nostril")>> pierced my nose;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Left Nipple") || $Piercings.includes("Right Nipple")>><<if $Piercings.includes("Right Nipple") && $Piercings.includes("Left Nipple")>><<else>> got one of my nipples pierced;<</if>><</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Right Nipple") && $Piercings.includes("Left Nipple")>> got barbells through both my nips;<</if>> <<if $Piercings.includes("Tongue")>> got one in my tongue;<</if>> <</if>> <br><br> And tattoos: <br><br> <<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _tattoo range setup.tattoos>> <<if ! $Tattoos.includes(_tattoo)>> <<capture _tattoo>> <<button _tattoo _nav>><<run $Tattoos.push(_tattoo)>><</button>><</capture>><br> <</if>> <</for>> <br><br> <<if $Tattoos.includesAny("Neck Nape", "Wrist", "Ankle", "Upper Arm", "Thigh", "Foot", "Mound", "Lower Back", "Sleeve")>> My ink? I had <<if $Tattoos.includes("Sleeve")>>an awesome sleeve; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Lower Back")>>a 'tramp stamp'; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Mound")>>an exciting surprise to guys who got in my pants; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Upper Arm")>>a quote on my bicep; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Thigh")>>a beautiful design on my thigh; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Foot")>>stars on my foot; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Ankle")>>a little butterfly on my ankle; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Wrist")>>a dandelion on my inner wrist; <</if>> <<if $Tattoos.includes("Neck Nape")>>and dragonflies on the back of my neck. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> Most choices, I felt, had some sort of expectation, but what I wore underneath was //entirely// up to me. <br><br> <div id = "bra">On top, <<if $Tits == "small">>it was either <<link "constrain">><<replace "#bra">><<set $Sophisticated ++>>Bras could be sexy and classy.<</replace>><</link>> them unnecessarily or <<link "deal">><<replace "#bra">><<set $Braless = true>><<bra>><<set $Confident ++>>My nips and tits were free girls.<</replace>><</link>> with nippage.<<elseif $Tit == "huge">>with a chest my size I should <<link "rein">><<replace "#bra">><<set $Sophisticated ++>>Bras could be sexy and classy.<</replace>><</link>> them in<<if $Risky gt 1 || $Confident gt 1 || $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>>, but I <<link "didn't">><<replace "#bra">><<set $Braless = true>><<bra>><<set $Confident ++>>My nips and tits were free girls.<</replace>><</link>> have to.<</if>><<else>>I should keep the jiggle and nipping to a <<link "minimum">><<replace "#bra">><<set $Sophisticated ++>>Bras could be sexy and classy.<</replace>><</link>><<if $Risky gt 0 || $Confident gt 0>>, but I <<link "didn't">><<replace "#bra">><<set $Braless = true>><<bra>><<set $Confident ++>>My nips and tits were free girls.<</replace>><</link>> have to...<</if>><</if>></div> <br><br> <<if $Undies.includesAny("Bikini-style", "Thongs", "Commando")>> And I preferred <<if $Undies.includes("Bikini-style")>>just normal underwear<</if>><<if $Undies.includes("Thongs")>> low coverage, no lines<</if>><<if $Undies.includes("Commando")>><<panties>>to be free and breezy<</if>>. <<else>> And downstairs: <br><br> <<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _undies range setup.undies>> <<if !$Undies.includes(_undies)>> <<capture _undies>> <<button _undies _nav>><<run $Undies.push(_undies)>><</button>><</capture>><br> <</if>> <</for>> <br><br> <</if>> <<if $Pubes !== "bush">>What was never finished, it seemed, was downstairs maintenance. It. was. ''work''. Eventually, I found my method and technique over the years using: <<cycle "$Grooming" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _groom>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Perfect. Ready to play.<</if>><</nobr>> The stress of the changes and decisions in my life affected the energy at [[home|CC014 - HomeVign2]].<<if $Mom == 1>> Everything was changing around me, inside me, and who knows if it was just the hormonal change (Narrator: it was the hormones), but I felt so much more empty than everyone around me. Why did I <<linkreplace "feel..." t8n>>feel the way I did? <<print $MName>> was in her room, <<linkreplace "packing?">>packing. //Again//. <a class="border img"><img src = "img/packing.jpg"></a> I tried to surprise her, give her a little shake-up. Her back was to the open doorway, like always, and I was //silent//. I don't think I had ever been more careful not even to slip out of the house or especially not even for a <<linkreplace "midnight snack" t8n>>midnight snack. "I only have a few minutes." Her preternatural senses made me wonder if I had actually gotten away with __any__ of my sneaking. I hadn't even crested the door frame. Maybe it was my footfalls or my jaw clicked as I began to speak. Either way she spoke first, "everything okay?" She turned slowly, a kind and understanding look on her <<linkreplace "face" t8n>>face. Tears welled up in my eyes. How could she be so calm, so considerate right ''now''? This isn't <<linkreplace "what I wanted" t8n>>what I wanted. "Where are you fucking going?" "I told you--" "//Business// trip--''bull''. __shit__." "Manila's primary array--" "//You//? Telecom expert from the United. __States__--" "Don't be sexist, <<print $Name>>--" "Go <<linkreplace "fuck yourself" t8n>> fuck yourself." In a split second her calm demeanor shifted. I had hurt her. Her shoulders sagged, churning something over in her head. I stood in front of her, boiling inside, head pounding from the tension in what certainly would be a massive headache later. I felt like I was trying to bottle surging power just moments away from letting it all <<linkreplace "explode" t8n>>explode. Silently and softly she edged forward crossing the distance towards me, "Come here." I shook my head defiantly, tears welling in my eyes. I took a step back fending her off with one arm to keep her away from me. "You're leaving again? Then just...__//''leave''//__." The bottle burst. I <<shake 2s>>slammed<</shake>> the door in her face. I was furious. She wanted to keep everything to herself so be it. She could act like the private //cunt// all she wanted just <<linkreplace "not with me" t8n>>not with me. Kids at school weren't any less difficult and hardly willing to [[accommodate me|CC015 - Clique]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>>.<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>> <<else>> Everything was changing around me, inside me, and who knows if it was just the hormonal change (Narrator: it was the hormones), but I felt so much more at a loss than everyone around me. Why was I the way I was? Why did I look like I did? More like Mom or Dad? <<if $Adoptive !== "grandparents">>Or my grandparents?<</if>> There was this giant hole and my <<linkreplace "psychic distress" t8n>>psychic distress was immense. "<<print $DName>>, what was Elle like?" I certainly wasn't going to ask <<print $MName>>. He became so rigid. There was worry, uncertainty, and...fear? in his <<linkreplace "eyes" t8n>>eyes. "Uh, w-what?" "Look. I just...feel like I have a right to know." "Well, you...do. What, um, exactly do you want to know" "Everything? I don't know. What //can// you tell me about her? What, like, sticks out in your mind?" He laughed and shook his <<linkreplace "head" t8n>>head. "Honestly? You remind me a lot of her." Tears welled up in my eyes, "Oh, honey, come now--" I shook my head, staving him off with an outstretched hand. "Why isn't she here now? Why don't I get to know her?" He shuddered a little bit, his own emotions struggling to remain contained, "She's a difficult woman--not that you're difficult--you ''are'', but--" I <<linkreplace "snapped" t8n>>snapped: "Oh //fuck// you." "<<print $Name>>--" "No. I came to __you__ to ask you a fair question. I needed to know something and what did you do? You blamed her--**me**--for...you know what? I know why she's not here. Reason's plain as day. Can't even get out of his chair for something important." I stormed off and <<shake 2s>>slammed<</shake>> the <<linkreplace "door" t8n>>door. That hurt too much, I wasn't going to try again, so my brain tried to tease what answers I could from our interaction. Was there pain in his eyes? Recognition? Whatever it was, it wasn't what I was looking for. <<linkreplace "Who I was looking for" t8n>>Who I was looking for. Kids at school weren't any less difficult and hardly willing to [[accommodate me|CC015 - Clique]].<</linkreplace>>.<</linkreplace>>.<</linkreplace>>.<</linkreplace>>.<</linkreplace>>.<</linkreplace>>.<</if>><<silently>><<unset $Looks, $Mtrait, $Ftrait>> <<if $Tattoos.length gt 0>><<run $Traits.push("Tats")>><</if>> <<if $Piercings.length gt 0>><<run $Traits.push("Pierced")>><</if>> <<set _reactionOptions = {}>> <</silently>> <<if $fertile == 0>> After looking at all of the options, I decided upon <<listbox "$BC">> <<option "Yaz" "Pill">> <<option "Nexplanon implant" "Implant">> <<option "copper IUD" "IUD">> <<option "Mirena IUD" "mIUD">> <<option "Nuvaring" "Ring">> <</listbox>>. So now I was safe, at least from the biggest worry. The rest I could figure out more, in the moment.<</if>> <br><br> Like everyone going through those changes, I struggled to understand who I was now and how I fit in. As I experimented and discovered my own independent identity, it definitely felt like a paradigm shift in life. Everyone at school understood me far more than anyone at home. <br><br> And there, I came to be known as <span id = "clique"> <<nobr>><<link "A Jock">><<replace "#clique">> that competitive girl that did sports. <<set $Clique = "Sports">> <<set $athletics ++>> <<set $coordination ++>> <<set $learning -->> <<set _reactionOptions["made sense. I had a drawer of gym shorts and all my free time was taken up by scholastic and club practice and competitions"] = 3>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["But I was also the girl that people came to watch, whether or not I knew them"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["And the discipline was good for me. You focus, get stuck in and push yourself to the limits. Thanks, Coach"] = 4>><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["And I did, but it wasn't like...some love of mine. It kept me in shape, but win, lose, who cares"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["How else are you supposed to get the charge of victory? Adrenaline pumping, a new challenge every week, what's to complain about"] = 3>><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["I was ''on'' the teams, true. But my nickname was //water// //girl//"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["Competitions meant off-site travel, few, if any chaperones and constantly new, fit people around. After getting your blood pumping, how better to relax than getting your blood pumping"] = 1>><</if>> <br><br> I made the volleyball team, gravitating to the serving specialist position once our coach, Rod, recognized my knack for quickly spotting opportunities and threats on the court. <br><br> Lots of girls dropped out of sport. But I pushed myself harder and harder, loving the camaraderie and the sense of well-being that I got from regular training. <br><br> My team-mates and I had to put up with after-school training sessions -- and jibes about lesbianism -- that other girls didn't. But the sweet thrill of a well-earned victory always made it worth it. <br><br> So, the grouping... <br><br> <<cycle "$LabelReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _reactionOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Teenagers categorized each other to understand who belonged with who, and it all was an outcropping of [[not being monitored every moment of every day|CC016 - Male Gaze]]<</replace>><</link>> <<if $schoolinterest is ("books" or "new" or "power") || $activity is ("read" or "piano") || $freetime is ("home" or "helper" or "church" or "volunteer")>><<link "A Nerd">><<replace "#clique">> the nerd. <<set $Clique = "Nerd">> <<set $learning ++>> <<set _reactionOptions["You like what you like. It cost me social capital but I wasn't going to be miserable"] = 3>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["It was mostly a way to take me down a notch, I think because it never really affected my social life. No one really held it against me that I liked dorky things"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["There's this movie from before I was born, but looking back, that was kinda...me. Once people looked past that veneer, I got free of the sneers and snickers"] = -2>><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["And being a __girl__ that was into these kind of things led to a level of attention and belonging that nothing else seemed to match"] = 4>><</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["I couldn't really fight the excitement of the night before a release, or -- not gonna lie -- just being smarter than your peers"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Sophisticated lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["And once you get a scarlet letter, you start to believe it and become it. Can't argue with how the brain and socialization works"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["Being classified as smart gave me the opportunity to challenge peers and even adults. Didn't always turn out the way I wanted, but I got to do it"] = -1>><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["And that's okay, head down, nose in a book keeps you from getting too much attention. Perks of being a wallflower, right?"] = 1>><</if>> <br><br> <<cycle "$LabelReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _reactionOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Teams, cliques, just socializing in general had never been something I wanted to do. <br><br> Thanks to phones and computers, I'd been able to ensconce myself in a digital landscape and avoid IRL quite a bit. And whenever I got pushed to hang out with friends, displaying the rapid-fire messages on my phone shut down that argument and quickly. <br><br> And my __excellent__ grades were hard to argue with. <br><br> The internet is a wealth of information which put me leaps and bounds ahead of my classmates who didn't venture past the text threads and emojis. And PornHub. <br><br> Teenagers categorized each other to understand who belonged with who, and it all was an outcropping of [[not being monitored every moment of every day|CC016 - Male Gaze]]<</replace>><</link>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<link "Popular">><<replace "#clique">> Alpha. Queen Bee. <br> <<set $Clique = "Alpha">> <<set $social ++>> <<set _reactionOptions["Being at the the center of attention feels good. Constant, positive reinforcement is hard to disagree with"] = 3>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions['The attention I got certainly cemented my position atop the totem pole'] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions['I was there not because I wanted to be, but because everyone around me naturally nudged and nurtured that relationship. No matter what I did'] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["It didn't feel like I mattered though, more like a figurehead for the people around me"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions['Getting everything that you want, just having people kow tow constantly can get absolutely infuriating. And it never stopped, no matter what I tried'] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["Having a run of the roost is a thrill unlike any others. People currying favor just so you decide who's in good graces. Mmmm"] = 4>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["What you get away with among your peers isn't always the case with everyone else. They don't live in your world and sometimes you forget"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions['When time with you is social capital and no matter what you do, what the whispers are, no one challenges you? You get your pick of whoever you want'] = 2>><</if>> <br><br> <<cycle "$LabelReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _reactionOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Teenagers categorized each other to understand who belonged with who, and it all was an outcropping of [[not being monitored every moment of every day|CC016 - Male Gaze]]<</replace>><</link>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness lt 4>><<if $schoolinterest is ("power" or "people" or "boys") || $freetime is ("club" or "partier" or "tailgate" or "barn") || $activity is ("play")>><<link "Popular">><<replace "#clique">> Alpha. Queen Bee. <<set $Clique = "Alpha">> <<set $social ++>> <<set _reactionOptions["Being at the the center of attention feels good. Constant, positive reinforcement is hard to disagree with"] = 3>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions['The attention I got certainly cemented my position atop the totem pole'] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions['I was there not because I wanted to be, but because everyone around me naturally nudged and nurtured that relationship. No matter what I did'] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["It didn't feel like I mattered though, more like a figurehead for the people around me"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions['Getting everything that you want, just having people kow tow constantly can get absolutely infuriating. And it never stopped, no matter what I tried'] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["Having a run of the roost is a thrill unlike any others. People currying favor just so you decide who's in good graces. Mmmm"] = 4>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["What you get away with among your peers isn't always the case with everyone else. They don't live in your world and sometimes you forget"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions['When time with you is social capital and no matter what you do, what the whispers are, no one challenges you? You get your pick of whoever you want'] = 2>><</if>> <br><br> <<cycle "$LabelReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _reactionOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Teenagers categorized each other to understand who belonged with who, and it all was an outcropping of [[not being monitored every moment of every day|CC016 - Male Gaze]]<</replace>><</link>><</if>><</if>> <<if $schoolinterest is ("free" or "trouble") || $activity is ("none" or "piano") || $freetime is ("barn" or "vandal" or "home" or "gang" or "partier" or "outdoors")>><<link "A Rebel">><<replace "#clique">> a rebel. <<set $Clique = "Rebel">> <<set $discipline -->> <<set $deception ++>> <<set $Risky ++>> <<set _reactionOptions["And it made sense. I was no normie"] = 3>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["It was interesting to see the double-takes when people were able to look past the facade. And funny when suddenly they took interest in me and my lifestyle"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["And while I couldn't help who I was, I certainly tried. Cleaned up here, fit in there. It felt like round peg, square hole, but I chafed at being relegated to the fringe"] = -2>><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["It felt so good to be able to disappear"] = 4>><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["Call me an iconoclast, but staying in one lane? Nah. Fight the man"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["And so what if I was. I got to do what I wanted, when I wanted"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["You gotta take advantage of being young and push the envelope. How else are you supposed to understand your boundaries"] = 3>><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["When the mainstream wanted to ignore your existence meant you got invites others didn't even hear about and hung out with incredibly interesting people. No eyeballs on you, no rules and no judgement"] = 1>><</if>> <br><br> <<cycle "$LabelReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _reactionOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Teenagers categorized each other to understand who belonged with who, and it all was an outcropping of [[not being monitored every moment of every day|CC016 - Male Gaze]].<</replace>><</link>><</if>> <<if $freetime is ("church" or "home" or "volunteer" or "helper") || $activity is ("read" or "piano" or "dance")>><<link "A Prude">><<replace "#clique">> a prude. <<set $Clique = "Prude">> <<set $discipline ++>> <<set $Easy -->> <<set $Sophisticated -->> <<set $Suggestible ++>> <<set _reactionOptions["And it made sense. I knew the verses and I felt most comfortable with that community"] = 3>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["And my confidence in myself and in Christ brought more sheep to the fold. Even if they came drooling"] = 2>><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _reactionOptions["But I truly felt the pull away from the flock. And if I wanted to be included elsewhere, I didn't receive much disagreement"] = -1>><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["Sermons made sense. And it felt __good__ to do His work"] = 4>><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["But I think I had heard the same argument enough at this point. It irked me that the label stuck, despite how I bucked the brethren and shirked the Spirit"] = -2>><</if>> <<if $Sophisticated lt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["But that was fine. People are who they are and who they commune with"] = 1>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["It really wasn't appropriate though. Something about the years of reading and hearing the same thing -- I felt compelled to poke holes in the arguments. Citing Deuteronomy always got a fun reaction"] = -3>><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>><<set _reactionOptions["What they didn't know is that sometimes when they try and bottle you up, you explode under pressure. And there was a whole like-minded buffet in the community"] = 1>><</if>> <br><br> Just because I attended church regularly and was a part of youth groups that happened to have His name involved, I got labeled. <br> <br><br> <<cycle "$LabelReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _reactionOptions>><</cycle>>. <br><br> Teenagers categorized each other to understand who belonged with who, and it all was an outcropping of [[not being monitored every moment of every day|CC016 - Male Gaze]]. <</replace>><</link>><</if>><</nobr>> </span><<nobr>><<set _Attention = { "I couldn't change them, they were just built that way" : 0 }>> <<set _Reaction = { "Ignored what I could, avoided what I had to, but occasionally I liked a bit" : 0 }>> <<if $Stable lt 0>> <<set _Attention["And I gave them the finger. I'm no object"] = -1>> <</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>> <<set _Attention["It didn't make me feel vulnerable"] = 1>> <</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>> <<set _Attention["It made me feel wanted and important"] = 2>> <</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>> <<set _Attention["It was a compliment"] = 1>> <</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>> <<set _Reaction["Freeze. Kinda felt like a deer, but they kinda felt like bears and playing 'dead' worked"] = -1>> <</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>> <<set _Reaction["Stop and smile. I'm not going to offend them"] = +1>> <</if>> <<if $Sophisticated lt 0>> <<set _Reaction["I just gave them the benefit of the doubt, just continued walking along."] = -2>> <</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>> <<set _Reaction["I may have gotten and given numbers. But what's wrong with that"] = +3>> <</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>> <<set _Reaction["Teasing was certainly fun. They liked it and mostly it worked out to be...a not totally regrettable choice"] = +2>> <</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 0>> <<set _Reaction["Chat them up. Always nice to hear compliments and the confident reaction always seemed to put them on their heels a bit."] = +1>> <</if>> <<if $Mother is "young">> <<set _Reaction["It wasn't a tactic, really. I just knew not to judge a book by its cover. I didn't like labels and why close off doors"] = +3>> <</if>><</nobr>> Life was opening up, which was fantastic. There was more trust, more freedom, more flexibility to be who I was. But that also meant not being cloistered away with adults shielding me from other adults. And the attention I was getting clearly wasn't limited to my class -- Upper Classmen were far more aggressive and blatant. Wasn't limited to my school, and certainly wasn't limited to any age-group. It became a regular occurrence, noticing a leer from creeps and weirdos. Getting older just meant all of them, young and old, knew them or didn't, behaved more brazenly. It was about that time that I really began to understood the comments about women being 'objectified' and what it truly was to be a vulnerable woman. I had context, <<hover>><<cycle "$MaleAttention" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _Attention>><</cycle>><<tip>>How does the attention tend to make her feel?<</hover>>. I learned to take it in stride, but also learned to be wary around strange men. Leading them on or pissing them off could be dangerous; they're all much bigger and stronger, and any one of them could be a psycho. My tactic? <<hover>><<cycle "$MaleReaction" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _Reaction>><</cycle>><<tip>>How does she tend to respond to the attention?<</hover>>. [[But guys, writ large, aren't bad|CC017 - Guy Friends]].<<if $FFsex == "F">><<set $FName = $FFName>><<else>><<set $FName = "Maddy">><</if>> My core group, even though they //were// guys, definitely didn't make me feel like the rest of their gender. <<if $FFsex == "M">><<print $FFName>><<set $Friend1 = $FFName>><<else>>Jacob<<set $Friend1 = "Jacob">><</if>>, Ethan and Andrew, three boys from my class.<<if $schoolinterest == "boys">> Unlike the rest of the guys around me, they found themselves in the friendzone, but that made it comfortable to chill with them once or twice a week.<<else>>Andrew <<if $Clique == "Prude">>was one of the guys from your youth group<</if>><<if $Clique == "Rebel">>skated at your skatepark<</if>><<if $Clique == "Sports">>was the son of one of my coaches<</if>><<if $Clique == "Nerd">>surprisingly lived nearby, though we met when I crushed him in League<</if>><<if $Clique == "Alpha">>was one of the guys in my circle that never was attached to anyone<</if>> and his close friends became mine.<</if>> <<if $Clique == "Nerd">> They got me into League and to join their 'Clan'. We played practically every night, and I exclusively took on the mantle of the Nine-Tailed Fox, Ahri, as the obvious A-tier pick for the Mid-Lane. And when we weren't in a match, I felt comfortable enough for some face-to-face time, but that was mostly spent discussing changes to builds or team-comp.<</if>> Mostly this just involved <<if $hometown == "NY">><<if $wealth gt 3>>seeing a show on Broadway or newest IMAX screening before discussing it to death over an expansive 'snack' on the West-side.<<else>>sitting around in Washington Square park and making fun of the couples and 'street artists'.<</if>><</if>> <<if $hometown == "AL">><<if $wealth gt 3>>bumming around the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum or seeing something at the Alabama Theatre<<else>>chilling in Kelly Ingram Park and making fun of the couples.<</if>><</if>> <<if $hometown == "LA">><<if $wealth gt 3>>sometimes deciding on going to one of the Theme Parks for a ride or two<<else>>bopping around Griffith Park and making fun of the couples.<</if>><</if>> <<if $hometown == "WA">><<if $wealth gt 3>>wandering around Ballard and just wandering into hot restaurants for an appetizer<<else>>scooting through the crowds at Pike Place Market and 'accidentally' getting in the way of the mongers.<</if>><</if>> <<if $hometown == "NO">><<if $wealth gt 3>>heading to a racetrack to watch the pit crews or the cars squealing and roaring by<<else>>out in some field, in a flatbed, or once...we might have made a crop circle.<</if>><</if>> sitting on the curb by the 7-11 with a microwaved slice while we scrolled on our phones. But the boys were a nice break from my own gender. Estrogen and being on similar cycles can be rough. They're silly and immature. But watching how they gave affection to each other -- far more physical and blunt than the subtleties I was used to -- was a breath of fresh air. Attracted to them? [[No, not really|CC018 - Extracurriculars]]. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>Though the looks they gave me belied their thoughts, even though they kept it to themselves.<</if>><<dialog 'Vignettes' 'popup'>>Here we and Claire encounter our first choice in Vignettes. Like the set pieces that have occurred at home, these are small narrative sequences giving depth to her experience.<br><br>Rarely, they are small, like these, and are more focused on skill and personality development of our protagonist than anything else.<</dialog>> Besides bumming around, trying to fit in while keeping my grades up, I was able to carve out some time to... <<nobr>> <<if $freetime == 'barn' || ($hometown == "NO" && $Risky gt 0)>>Enjoy the [[local|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'barn']] party scene.<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'vandal' || ($hometown == "NO" && $Risky gt 0)>>Raise hell [[around town|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'vandal']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'helper' || $Suggestible gt 0>>Made myself of use around the [[neighborhood|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'helper']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'church' || $Stable gt 0>>Joined a [[Youth Group|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'church']].<br><</if>> /*<<if $freetime == 'partier' || $Stable lt 0>>Hit up all the weekend [[parties|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'partier']].<br><</if>>*/ <<if $freetime == 'home' || $Risky lt 0>>Chill by myself or with friends at [[home|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'home']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'gang' || $Risky gt 0>>Join a new [[family|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'gang']] -- what you'd call a 'gang'. Judgey.<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'volunteer' || $discipline gt 0>>Use my free time for the [[greater good|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'volunteer']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'sporty' || $athletics gt 0>>Stay active in seasonal [[sports|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'sporty']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'beach'>>Get paid to enjoy the beach? Easy: [[lifeguard|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'beach']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'club'>>Hit the [[club scene|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'club']].<br><</if>> /*<<if $freetime == 'tailgate'>>[[|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'tailgate']].<br><</if>> <<if $freetime == 'outdoors'>>[[|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'outdoors']].<br><</if>>*/ Try out for the [[cheer squad|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'cheer']].<br> Try my hand at [[acting|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'act']].<br> <<if $wealth lte 3>>Get a [[part-time job|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'job']] for extra cash.<br><</if>> <<if $activity == "dance" || $discipline gt 0>>Started exploring [[other styles of dance|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'dance']].<br><</if>> /*<<if $activity == "piano" || $performance gt 0>>Took playing seriously [[leaned into piano recitals|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'piano']].<br><</if>>*/ <<if $activity == "gym" || ($coordination gt 0 && $athletics gt 0)>>Dig into competition with [[club gymnastics|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'gym']].<br><</if>> <<if $activity == "read" || $learning gt 1>>[[Enroll|CC019 - HSVign][$hsv = 'read']] at Community College for advanced and college-credit classes.<br><</if>> [[Enjoy|HS000 - Testing][$Sophisticated --; $learning ++]] my free time...and focus on studying.<</nobr>><<nobr>> <<silently>> <<if $hsv == $activity || $hsv == $freetime>><<set $Stable ++>><</if>> <<set $attemptBig = false>><<set $attempt = false>> <<set $ChellaDirect = false>><<set $ChellaSneak = false>><<set $ChellaDetect = false>> <<set $barndrink = false>><<set $barnlocation = false>><<set $barnmusic = false>><<set $barnpeople = false>><<set $barnsurprise = false>><<set $barndrugs = false>> <<set $FFpeople = 0>><<set $FFlocation = 0>><<set $FFmusic = 0>><<set $FFdrink = 0>><<set $FFsurprise = 0>><<set $FFdrugs = 0>> <<set $makeit = 0>><<set $actpath = 0>> <</silently>> <<if $hsv == 'barn'>> <<set $barntime = 5>> An advantage to being out in the boonies is certainly the space. There's room for anything and distance to make sure it's private. The vacant spots around town had developed their own hierarchy. A perennial fave was the 'Corn Maze' -- but only when it wasn't Fall; so the cool place to be was Tanner's, or if you were in the inner-most circle: Coppice-chella. <br><br> But whether or not you were on the in, there was always some fallow field or rickety barn to co-opt with your friends. <br><br> <div id = "options"> <<if $discipline gt 0 || $Confident lt 0>> I was more than content to <<link "Chill">><<replace "#options">> <<print $FFName>> had a run-down barn on the property next to theirs and it became our haunt, us and The Boys. We took turns secreting off 'supplies' from our parents or elder siblings. <<if $Attractiveness gt 2>>Occasionally, I batted by big <<print $Eyes>>s and had some poor sap carry some out of Local Liquor.<</if>> <br><br> It was chill, in our private world, laughing or lamenting in our safe place, with the people we trusted. The barn developed over time: a sleeping bag here, hand-me-down quilt there, some curb furniture to round out the creature comforts. It didn't matter how they looked or how we treated them. <br><br> And, despite our parent's concerns, we ''did'' occasionally do homework and study together. <br><br> But, yeah, it was mostly getting a buzz on, relieving tension and having somewhere else to crash than at home. <br><br> I heard some crazy stories about the events I missed, but we never risked the cops. And we had a great time, [[just us|HS000 - Testing][$Sophisticated --]]. <</replace>><</link>> with my friends, occasionally tipping a few with them.<br> <</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Excitable gt 0>> But simply participating or gaining entry wasn't enough for me, I wanted to throw a <<link "legendary bonfire">>.<<replace "#options">> <<set $attemptBig = true>> I was going to make my mark here before I blew this pop stand. //Everyone// would remember Fire Festival. Hell, maybe it would live on after me. <br><br> Over the next couple days, when I should have been paying attention in class, I jotted down every idea that came to mind. I created quite a to-do list. None of it would be easy, but what I tackled first would have the best chance of going off well. <br><br> I just had to [[prioritize|CC019 - HSVign2]]. Too much to do, too little time. Shit. <</replace>><</link>> <</if>> <br><br> I wanted to get into <<link "Coppice-chella">><<replace "#options">> <<set $attempt = true>> Coppice-chella was shrouded in mystery and legend, whispers and tales of cousins who //had// gone. It was 'run' by a couple of townies, Chet and Harry, who were the two who actually worked on the copse yearly and somehow had gotten away with this covert affair despite not owning the land. Around here, you could get shot for this kinda thing. <br><br> You couldn't show up. Unlike clubbing, simply being female wasn't enough. The little dirt frontage road was gated. Chet seated on a gatepost, checking his list and enforcing it with __his__ shotgun. Money was definitely involved, but how did you get on that clipboard? <br><br> <<if $Confident gte 0>>Maybe try the [[direct approach|CC019 - HSVign2][$ChellaDirect = true]] with the two of them.<</if>> Or, sus out truth from story [[around town|CC019 - HSVign2][$ChellaDetect = true]]. Or, just try and [[sneak in|CC019 - HSVign2][$ChellaSneak = true]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'gym'>> I'd been tumbling from the time I could walk. The smell of foam and rubber are the easiest triggers for my sense memory. I can still feel the impact of a mat and the drop in my gut when my brain registered I was just //slightly// off. Still, I loved the challenge of it all. <br><br> <<if $discipline gt 0>><<set $discipline ++>>I was a standout because on my breaks I was literally getting back on the horse rather than chat with the others. Taking a couple more goes to see if I could improve.<br><br><</if>> <<if $athletics gt 2>><<set $athletics ++>>I had the ability to push myself further and faster than others. Got my splits down first and was advanced with kids a year older than me to try the more complicated routines.<br><br><</if>> <<if $coordination gt 0>><<set $coordination ++>>I felt the coaches relax when it was my attempt. Their hands a bit further away, their brains checking out for a couple seconds. I missed far less than anyone else.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set $coordination ++>><<set $athletics ++>>There's an element that's unspoken. No coach is going to ''make'' you exceed your limitations, but the ones that really make it are really able to sacrifice their bodies and the coaches aren't going to stop you.<br><br><</if>> I wasn't about to be an Olympian (and stunt my development), but I didn't want to give up gymnastics altogether. <br><br> <<if $Pubes == "bush">> The first thing that ''had'' to change were these hairs sticking out of my leotard. The locker room -- whether or not it was because their hormones were stunted -- told me that hairless was ideal, but I could eek out a little, if I insisted. <br><br><<listbox "$Pubes">><<option "bald">><<option "landing strip" "strip">><</listbox>> <</if>> <br><br> After school classes only continued until a certain age, and then you started getting looks. I mean, everyone else came up to your hips at best. So, it was time to look into competitive [[club teams|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'act'>> <<if $hometown == "NY" || $hometown == "LA">> Being in a cultural center like I was, I didn't have to settle for a school or community production. Technically, I could try my hand at something professional. <<if $parents == "loved" || $parents == "together" || $Adoptive == "grandparents">> First, I had to convince //them// that it wasn't a crazy idea. <<if $Risky lte 0 || $deception gt 0>> Using my track record so far, and maybe a little stretching of the truth, they relented. Then the ''real'' fear set in: did I really want to try this? <br><br> Nope, something [[more local|CC019 - HSVign2][$Confident --]] would suffice. <<if $wealth gt 3>>There were some crazy good acting coaches around, maybe just focus [[on the craft|CC019 - HSVign2][$actpath = 2]].<</if>> Dakota Fanning was discovered way younger than I was...I had to [[take a shot|CC019 - HSVign2][$actpath = 1; $Excitable ++]]. <<else>> I begged, I pleaded, I bartered, but when they insisted that -- due to my behavior up til now -- they'd have to accompany me, I reconsidered and decided on something [[more local|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <<else>> <<if $Adoptive == "uncle">>My uncle grunted assent without looking up from the paper.<</if>> <<if $Adoptive == "foster">>My foster parents couldn't have cared less.<</if>> Permission came easily, so then the real fear set in: did I really want to try this? <br><br> Nope, something [[more local|CC019 - HSVign2][$Confident --]] would suffice. <<if $wealth gt 3>>There were some crazy good acting coaches around, maybe just focus [[on the craft|CC019 - HSVign2][$actpath = 2]].<</if>> Dakota Fanning was discovered way younger than I was...I had to [[take a shot|CC019 - HSVign2][$actpath = 1; $Excitable ++]]. <</if>> <<else>> Not being in a cultural center, I had to settle for a school or [[community production|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Excitable gt 0>>I mean, there __were__ agents and managers out here, maybe I could actually try that way [[outta this god-forsaken town|CC019 - HSVign2][$actpath = 1]]?<</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'club'>> My skin prickled as I applied mascara, flashes of excitement hitting me as I thought about tonight's commencement of the "Legendary Tour." It was tradition passed down from year to year by the girls who went out at school: where to go, in what order, who to talk to, what to say. It was kinda like an initiation or hazing, but only the fun parts and no one was monitoring or judging you -- more than usual. <br><br> I leaned away from the mirror, turning my head one way, then the other, hands tugging down at the hem of my LBD. I lifted up onto the balls of my feet, twisted my hips slightly, patted my stomach and grinned. Fuck. I looked hot. <br><br> <<if $parents == "together" || $parents == "loved" || $Adoptive == "grandparents">> I had my whole routine prepared over the years: a rotation of who I was 'staying with,' what I wore over my outfit and a non-descript bag that both held what I needed to swap out and that didn't look garish when I was out. I barely waved on my way out the door, even to the chorus of "Have fun!" "Say Hi to..." "Don't stay up too late!" <<else>> I never bothered hiding it anymore, legs and cleavage on full display, clomping out the door in my heels, sometimes I got a wave, occasionally a "Be safe," but usually it was as if I hadn't disturbed a soul. <</if>> <br><br> And then...I was out! The cool night air of spring caressing my bare skin <<if $Undies == "Commando">>and uncovered slit<</if>>, nipples perking as I <<if $wealth gt 3>>unceremoniously plopped into the Uber<<else>>made my way to the train<</if>> to meet up with the others. <br><br> Rolling up to spot one, Tao, I was unsurprised to see Ava already working the doorman -- not that she needed to, our school had a long-time in here -- but because she enjoyed the attention. <<if $FFSex == "F">><<print $FFName>><<set $FName = $FFName>><<else>>My girl Maddy<<set $FName = "Maddy">><</if>> was wearing the cute pink version of my minidress and I grabbed her into a tight hug, giving people around us flashes of our asses. I didn't care. Clubbing meant people saw things you didn't want them to, or did. Just a matter of course. <br><br> Della and Lexi rounded out the crew and with my arrival, we made our <<linkreplace "way in">> <<set $social ++>>way in. <br><br> We couldn't really smell the soy sauce anymore. The hours since Tao had been a restaurant helped, and now there were sweaty bodies and alcohol to mask any hint of grease -- well except in the hair of those Jersey dudes. <br><br> It <<if $wealth gt 3>>wasn't too expensive<<else>>was too expensive<</if>> to pay for ourselves, but that wasn't the point. We were out. We were hot. We got drinks. And soon, with just a smile, I had a cocktail in my hand. <br><br> We moved to the center of the dance floor, geisha on the brick wall looking over us. We bounced together, taking our first drinks and giggling with glee as the night began. My mind began to wander as I decided how to make this an auspicious beginning... <br><br> <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Excitable gt 0>> I knew it was early, but I could hit up that guy by the bathroom for <<linkreplace "some blow">> <<set $discipline -->>...I wasn't asking his name. My hand caressed his as I leaned casually against the wall next to him. I let my hip nudge and press against him and gave little flicks of eye contact. <br><br> No mention of what I wanted. His attitude made it clear that he understood what was going on, nonchalant and enjoying the attention. He made a couple of deals and enjoyed that I brought him a bit more clout. And right before I was about to get frustrated and leave, he leaned in and whispered in my ear, "Head inside..." <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 0>>Head. Inside. Got it.<</if>> And in we went, sliding into the stall in the back where the TP dispenser looked like you could ski on it. He gave a nudge at my bare shoulder and began unzipping his pants. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 0>> Hair tie was already in hand, knees meeting the cool and sticky floor. A couple minutes later I was flying, stumbling out of the bathroom with a giant grin on my face, mascara running and a mix of tangs at the back of my throat. I wiped my nose and mouth and [[joined the girls|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit ++; $attempt = true]]. <<else>> I looked up at him incredulously. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> He sighed and shook his head, guiding my hand to his open fly. A couple minutes later, I was flying, stumbling out of the bathroom with a giant grin on my face. I wiped my hand across my dress and then cleaned up my nose as I [[joined the girls|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit ++; $attempt = true]]. <<else>> He shoved me unceremoniously out of the stall and I stumbled out of the bathroom, hearing "Cockteasing slut," as the door shut behind me. Awkwardly, I [[joined the girls|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</linkreplace>> <br> <</if>> Eh, staying with the pack was good...these were my <<linkreplace "GIRLS!">> <<set $Confident -->>GIRLS! <br><br> The music throbbed, sweat lined the bare curves of our bodies. We alternated, being pulled away for a moment to grind and dance with some rando, make out a bit and then giggling and laughing as we were tugged back, safe, to [[the pack|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</linkreplace>><br> I had to find someone hot. <<linkreplace "Now.">> <<set $Easy ++>>Now. I sidled away from the pack as best I could without being //too// obvious. I gave a smirk to <<print $FName>>, caught at the last second, but with a shrug...I was gone. <br><br> <<if $Sexuality !== 1>> Thank god for the door quotas. Beautiful women were in droves and drew my eye. Sure, guys tried when they went out, but we went to a whole 'nother level. <br><br> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> I was shocked when my wrist was tugged, spinning around and now eye-to-eye with...I'd want my identity private for obvious reasons, so I'll give her the same consideration...let's just say she's been in a Marvel movie or two. <br><br> "Oh. Uh." She beamed at my reaction, pulling me closer and we began to dance. Her fingers intertwined with mine as I felt her tight, trained body through her outfit, our thighs interwoven, bouncing slightly. <<if $Undies == "Commando">>She didn't seem to mind feeling my wetness, skin-to-skin.<<else>>I knew she could feel the heat against her quad. I felt hers.<</if>> <br><br> She hummed in my ear to the music, she didn't know the underlying song, but she was into it. Her breath puffing against my cheek, hands unweaving and moving to each other's sides. <br><br> Then we were making out. Slow, considerate, testing. Our arms moved up around each other's shoulders and that's how I spent Tao: pressed tightly against her as we 'danced,' tongues down each other's throats. <br><br> I think the shock of seeing me with her kept us at Tao too long, but eventually Lexi pulled me away. Ms. Marvel smiled and waved. My heart fluttered. We [[moved on|CC019 - HSVign2][$Memories.push("Made out with Marvel Heroine"); $attempt = true]]. <<else>> I was also thankful for women being, generally, more fluid than men. While I felt a little 'needy'--no single girl spent the time at Tao with me--I got my dance on, I felt some ass, I got some tongue. <br><br> And then, Lexi was dragging me out of the club. We [[moved on|CC019 - HSVign2][$attempt = true]]. <</if>> <<else>> Even with the door quotas, men were on the hunt and beautiful women were in droves. <br><br> <<if $MaleReaction gt 1>> Oof! I was pulled and found myself face-to-face with...how did //he// get in? He clearly hadn't come with lady friends and now his hands were snaking their way around my hipbones to my ass. <br><br> I laughed, "Oh uh, hi." I don't know if he heard me over the music, so I leaned in and yelled it into his ear. He didn't respond, but accepted me getting closer to lock me in. <br><br> Feeling the pressure between his legs against my body, I could sense his eagerness. My dress was being inched up around my waist and as he got a gauge on my demeanor, it didn't take him long before he was grinding against me firmly and worming his hand down to my pussy from behind. <br><br> <<if $Undies == "Commando">> I grunted, chin and nose leaning against him as his fingers found my lack of underwear and one stuffed inside me. We were less dancing and more hooking up, but we certainly weren't the only ones here focused on pleasure over fun. <<else>> His fingers rubbed at the cloth between my thighs, testing the waters before pulling them aside and stuffing a finger inside. We were less dancing and more hooking up, but we certainly weren't the only ones here focused on pleasure over fun.<</if>> <br><br> His pants got sticky quick, soaking through his clothing and into my dress. I heard him grunting into my ear and felt him clutching me to stay still. His finger was still too for those moments, then returned to pumping in and out. <br><br> I shifted my hips and tried to guide him, but he couldn't be instructed. I relented because it still felt good. He chuckled, listening to my gasps audible from our closeness. I spent Tao being worked up by this random guy on the dance floor. <br><br> "<<print $Name>>!" Lexi was dragging me away from him and his hands slid from me without complaint. He watched me leaving, fixing my minidress as I was dressed down by her and my friends as we [[moved on|CC019 - HSVign2][$attempt = true]]. <<else>> Oof! I was pulled and found myself face-to-face with...how did //he// get in? He clearly hadn't come with lady friends and now his hands were snaking their way around my hipbones to my ass. Pulling them back and with a gentle pressure at his chest, I exited the grasp and found him reluctant but unsurprised, rather than trying to continue with me, he was searching for someone else. <br><br> Whew. That was close. "You alone?" came the words, loud in my ear because...well, they had to be in here. <br><br> I nodded, smiling at a much more acceptable guy. A little salt and pepper at his temples, but I accepted the attention readily and soon we were dancing. He was polite for a bit, but his hands found my rear, dress hiked to my waist as we gyrated. Fuck. I was wet. <br><br> "Oh, bye!" He laughed as suddenly I was yanked away by Lexi, shaking her head at me as I corrected my dress and we [[moved on|CC019 - HSVign2][$attempt = true]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>>. <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'dance'>> <<nobr>><<silently>> <<undress>><<upper "leotard_ballerina">><<lower "stockings_ballerina">><<feet "shoes_ballerina">><<set $dancestyles = ["Ballet1"]>> <</silently>><</nobr>> I had grown up with a barre at my side, plié at the ready, and a tutu in my closet. I understood the rigors and expectations, and the pressure of recitals. <br><br> While adolescence had taken my weekly lessons down, I found that I missed it. I missed the structure, I missed working in tandem with others, I missed learning new techniques. <br><br> So, I gathered up my willpower -- I was out of practice and I'd be behind the curve -- and checked a local studio for classes to enroll during my free afternoons. <br><br> [[Intermediate|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 1]] Ballet seemed doable.<br> Could try something completely different with [[Hip Hop|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 2]].<br> [[Ballroom|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 3]], for all those balls that happen...so often.<br> Or stretch the basics of Ballet into [[Contemporary|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 4]]. <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'vandal'>> Boredom was usually the main motivator for what we did on those nights in town. The three of us, staring up at the stars, Allie smoking a cigarette, Raymond swigging from a Coors can, eventually would just get bored and one of us would come up with some random idea that sounded more fun than sitting around or going home. <br><br> That night, like it always seemed to end up being, it was... <br><br> <div id = "mischief"> <<link "Joyriding">><<replace "#mischief">> Taking turns behind the wheel, we spun out in the dirt, squealing as we felt the truck rock, threatening to go end over end. Or it was screaming down the highway, pulling into oncoming traffic until the very last moment. More often than not, we'd end up in the culvert laughing and crying -- partially from fear, partially from excitement -- as the truck whined and climbed back onto the asphalt. <br><br> We challenged the world, we pushed the limits of the vehicle and our own adrenaline. It was fun, but looking back it was [[stupid|CC019 - HSVign2][$Risky ++; $Excitable ++; $Confident ++; $coordination ++]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br> <<link "Shooting">><<replace "#mischief">> Raymond had his dad's .45 and he was more than happy to pop open the glove compartment and hand over the ammunition. We'd head out to some field with a downed tree or clean stump. We'd arrange the empty Coors cans and whatever odds and ends happened to be lying along the floorboards. <br><br> At first it was just target practice in the failing light, but we got adventurous quick, attempting flashy technique that none of us were really certain we'd execute until the trigger went off. <br><br> We laughed and screamed as the hand-cannon's report went off. Looking back, we were fortunate, and didn't hurt anyone, not even [[ourselves|CC019 - HSVign2][$Risky ++; $Confident ++; $perception ++; $coordination ++]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br> <<link "Skinnydipping">><<replace "#mischief">> <<undress>> Sometimes it'd be a lake or a pond, or the creek, but the water was cold, even during the Summer and who knew what was growing or living in it. So, mostly this meant hopping the fence into someone's pool, or breaking into the school and taking a swim. <br><br> Maybe it was the excitement at possibly getting caught -- and we got caught -- or it was the difficulty of trying to figure out ways in and around the locks, but there was something about being where we shouldn't have been that was incredibly fun. <br><br> And it never hurt to be naked, listening to the water lapping, most of the lights being off and having your heart pumping around people you trusted. We'd laugh and play, and eye each other's bare forms even though we'd seen them time and again. <br><br> Play would turn to __play__ and our laughter would drop off into making out, curled against each other until we got too cold or until we got [[kicked out|CC019 - HSVign2][$Risky ++; $Easy ++; $investigation ++; $wiles ++]]. <</replace>><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'helper'>> It was a warm afternoon, just returning from school and Mr. Strong was working on his gutters. Being old and feeble climbing that high up ladder could cost him a hip. <br><br> "Mr. Strong, Oh, Mr. Strong! Please be careful. Let me help you with that." <br><br> He always struck me as a 'do it yourself' kind of guy, I hardly expected him to take me up on the offer. <br><br> "Why yes, dear. That would be nice," the ladder labor brought the words out with a surprising bellow. Shit. I just wanted the points for the offer. <br><br> Now his assistant, I crossed the lawn to his ladder, the warm breeze reminding me -- I was in a skirt. <<if $social gt 1 and $Confident lt 0>> <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 2>> Agreement being more important than dignity, it looked like the old man would get a show. He descended and I took his place, his hands steadying the base of the ladder. <br><br> <<if $Undies == "Commando">> I could feel his eyes on my bare legs creeping higher as my legs pumped up the rungs of the ladder. I couldn't believe I was flashing my pussy to old man Mr. Strong. I waited for a reaction, possibly the thud of him hitting the ground from a heart attack.. But hey my folks couldn't say I didn't help a neighbor in need. Just might give a little too much help. <br><br> There it came: coughing "Are you alright up there, <<print $Name>>?" Looking down, I saw he had downcast his own gaze. He had seen. <br><br> That old sly dog. Thinking of older men in this way usually made my skin crawl, but it felt so naughty and exciting to be on display for him for some reason. <br><br> Digging the leaves and muck from the gutters wasn't something I was prepared for --in more ways than one -- dirtying my hands. My ass shook with every cup-and-toss. I swear, the man nearly had a stroke before the day was out. And it wasn't from the heat. <br><br> With sweat -- I think it was just sweat -- lubricating my inner thighs, I finished up, coming down the ladder, "Take care, [[Mr. Strong|CC019 - HSVign2]]," <br><br> <<else>> Thankful for underwear, I assured myself the view wasn't unacceptably lewd. I was helping a neighbor, so any judgment had to put that into the balance. <br><br> I balanced at the top, driving from my mind the consideration of //what// pair of underwear I had chosen, focusing on the clog. <br><br> He cleared his throat (I wonder why), "Thank, thank you for all the help <<print $Name>>." I peered over my shoulder, catching him just before his gaze dropped. <br><br> "Keep me stable, Mr. Strong. It's no problem. I'll be done in a jiff." I wiggled my ass for effect as I rooted the gutter. It did feel extra stable…maybe a third leg was supporting the ladder that day. <br><br> Job complete, he thanked me as I skipped away, allowing my skirt to flare up one last time. I was devious and extra [[kind-hearted|CC019 - HSVign2][$Excitable ++]]. <br><br> <</if>> <<else>> Already bound to my offer, I mulled the options over and decided my best bet was to keep my thighs closed and pin the skirt with them. Faux-skort in a way. <br><br> Hand over hand, I moved up the ladder utilizing my upper-body strength as much as I could. At the top, I got to work, shifting as little as possible. . The ladder felt stable and, checking a couple times, he didn't seem to be snatching glimpses. <br><br> "Thank you so much, <<print $Name>>. I would have been here all day with the bad knees and all. You are a godsend." <br><br> "No problem, Mr. Strong, just thank my parents for raising me right." Brownie points with them were //actually// useful. <br><br> Within an hour we had moseyed around and gotten the gutters clean. Flashing crisis averted. I smiled, giving him a final wave as I headed home, sweaty, dirty, but [[feeling accomplished|CC019 - HSVign2][$Stable ++]]. <br><br> <</if>> <<else>> "Oh sorry, Mr. Strong. Not really...dressed for the occasion. Please be careful!" pointing out my ensemble, he nodded. <br><br> "Oh, of course. Thanks for lookin' out for an old codger like me! Now get on home, young'n." I wasn't about to be judged for parading my hindquarters in front of a neighbor.. Perhaps there would be another neighbor in need. <br><br> Rather than go straight home, I always took a stroll around the block. It's a safe neighborhood so I didn't feel concerned about running into trouble. <br><br> <<if $perception gt 0>> The sound of barking and screaming made me reconsider the notion. Old Ms. Unis was chasing her dog, its leash flopping behind it as it padded away. <br><br> <<if $coordination gt 1 and $athletics gt 1>>My feet were already pounding pavement, legs burning as I took off after the young pup. <br><br> "I've got it Ms. Unis!" I shouted, mid-sprint. <br><br> Ms. Unis, huffed and puffed, stopping her own chase, "Oh. Thank. You. <<print $Name>>. That damn dog got away again," she choked out bent over at the waist. <br><br> The dog had a few paces on me. With the leash trailing, I'd have to get close to grab the reins unless I dove -- so I did, managing to snag the leash by the fingertips body scuffing to a stop in a neighbor's yard. <br><br> Grass-stained, I escorted the energetic mutt back to its owner. <br><br> "Here ya go, Ms. Unis. He is a fast bugger." <br><br> "Oh, you're such a dear, I will tell your parents how wonderful you are," she was pinching my cheeks. Sweaty old lady fingers. <br><br> "No problem," I grimaced. "Have a great day." She took her dog back to heel as I proudly headed home -- directly now. I had already gotten my run around the block. <br><br> <<else>> The dog was //fast//. As I got into my pace, I nearly tripped, surprised by the way it took off. But I was determined to help her, I wouldn't let my clumsiness get in my way. <br><br> ''Huff'' ''huff'' "I'll get your dog, Ms. Unis." <br><br> Gassed and already way behind: "Bless. You. <<print $Name>>. Bless. You!" <br><br> I chased that mangy mutt through yards. I realized it was built for this and I wasn't, I'd have to take a shot. I dove once and found, rather than the leash, a face full of grass and scraped knees. Lurching myself back upright, I pressed on. <br><br> Though the dog was athletic, it wasn't smart. Moments after my fall, it became enraptured by stray dog droppings and had stopped to sniff. I pounced, snagging the leash. <br><br> Half-beaten and half-dead I marched the pup back to its owner. "Here is your rascal," wincing slightly as my scraped knee began to throb. <br><br> "Ooo, that looks bad. Go home and tend to that. I'll be sure to tell your parents how wonderful you are <<print $Name>>." She scolded the dog and walked away, leaving me surprised she hadn't offered nanny-sensibilities and helped me out with my injuries. <br><br> I limped my way home, feeling proud to have my [[badges of honor|CC019 - HSVign2][$coordination ++]]. <</if>> <<else>> I heard screaming and a dog barking excitedly but I couldn't make out where. It sounded like a neighbor needed help. Unfortunately, it the noises trailed off before I could be a [[super-neighbor|CC019 - HSVign2][$Risky --]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'church'>> I don't know why I was jittery. It was only a youth group. I'd probably know at least some, if not all of the other members simply because of the overlap of the congregation. Maybe it was excitement. <br><br> We assembled around the fire pit in the back of the church. Logs were situated at angles to form natural seating. With the backdrop of the stained glass, we got settled. I smiled around, trying to make that initial connection. <br><br> "Hey, I'm <<print $Name>>." I stood, looking around the other kids around my age and I did recognize many of them from Sundays. <br><br> "Hey, <<print $Name>>." A rolling response. Then the youth minister grinned, a blade of grass playing between his fingers, "What verse speaks most to you?" <br><br> <div id = "verse"> <<link "Romans 12:2">><<replace "#verse">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $learning ++>>"Ah, interesting. And what part of it speaks strongest to you?" <br><br> "Then you will be able to test--" <br><br> "So it's your job to test God's will?" <br><br> I smiled, easy trap, "To discover his will. By breaking the bonds of normalcy. It's in the frayed edges that we find ourself and Him." <br><br> He nodded. And so it went, around the circle, a personal investigation of [[the Bible|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br> <<link "Ephesians 6:12">><<replace "#verse">> <<set $Excitable ++>><<set $deception ++>><br><br>"Ah, interesting. And what part of it speaks strongest to you?" <br><br> "...against the rulers--" <br><br> "Is the church not an authority? Should you struggle against the church--this group?" <br><br> I laughed, "Are you infused with forces of evil?" <br><br> He smiled. And so it went, around the circle, a personal investigation of [[the Bible|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br> <<link "John 16:33">><<replace "#verse">> <<set $Stable ++>><<set $discipline ++>><br><br>"Ah, interesting. Have you suffered trouble?" <br><br> "Who has not?" <br><br> "And do you see evidence of His overcoming the world?" <br><br> "Are we here, together today?" <br><br> He nodded. And so it went, around the circle, a personal investigation of [[the Bible|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'partier'>> Pretty much every weekend, you could find some house where the parents were gone. And then it was about being in the know, or knowing who was in the know. <br><br> And you never had to bring anything except your self. They were being thrown for social clout, to make some friends, or just get some strange. A free party, though? Yes. Please. <br><br> Why my enthusiasm? <div id ="party"> Doing something I <<link "wasn't supposed to">><<replace "#party">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $deception ++>>Sneaking out was a thrill like none other. Or the lie that I was over at <<print $FName>>'s with a change of clothes in my bag? Epic. <br><br> There was also this little 'danger' factor when I was at a party. No one knew what I was going to get up to. People knew I have higher limits and fewer inhibitions. //I// was the party. <br><br> Sure, there were some regrets. Many groundings. Some detentions when the word got back to school. But a life full of regrets is a life well-lived. <br><br> Oh! And if the cops were called and I had to scramble, drunkenly or high off my ass out of a bathroom window? Chased by flashing red and blue was a kick you'll never know until you [[try it|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "getting blitzed">><<replace "#party">> <<set $Excitable ++>><<set $discipline -->>So what I didn't remember most of them. I'm a proud member of never having to get my stomach pumped and not being the girl that had a rep of always heading into some back room. <br><br> I also was a champ when it came to flip cup and beer pong. Guys feared me -- or at least really enjoyed having a competitive girl across the table from them. <br><br> And I was a ton of fun, always invited because people knew I was going to keep the party going as long as I could, calling for others to rally. <br><br> So, like I said. I didn't need to remember the party itself. People would remind me what happened and what I did the [[next Monday|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> was freeing, I didn't want to feel like I <<link "wasn't included">><<replace "#party">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Confident -->>I hated hearing the next Monday about some crazy thing that Derek had done. Or that 'everyone who's everyone' was somewhere...where I hadn't been. It was like a judgment of who I was and how much fun I could be. <br><br> I was fun! I wasn't dancing on a table or getting black out, but I could pull attention from guys, and I was right in the mix on a Never Have I Ever. <br><br> But more than anything else, the enjoyment for me was being able to spread the word a little bit. To feel important and on the inner circle. Watching someone's face light up when I gave them the time and place. [[Incredible|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'home'>> The best part of spending extra time at home? The freedom to goon and masturbate alone. Ah, the sweet, sweet sound of no one around. <br><br> Maybe I should have spent a little more time with something productive, but the release and calmness that would come after cumming? I really understood the meaning of 'ecstatic'. <br><br> I would hurry home, sometimes cutting out of a free period early, knowing the household calendar and timing to a 'T'. Like clockwork, I would unlock the front door and call out as I came in, locking behind me as I took in the sound of silence. <br><br> Then it was dropping my bag on the floor and bounding down the hallway to my bedroom, working my clothes <<link "off">><<undress>><</link>>, eager to make the most of each moment. <br><br> My mind would return to a moment earlier in the day that had turned me on: a thought I had in class, someone during PE, or just what I had logged in the brain bank. My hand was between my legs while I was disrobing, making myself grunt as I got to business. <br><br> I had been ready before I opened the door and my folds welcomed my fingers, climbing up onto my bed, leaning back on one elbow with my thighs dropped open. <br><br> The build-up was the best part, groaning out as my body fought my mind when I shifted off 'right there' and let the impending orgasm dissipate, making my loins ache. <br><br> And there, cheeks pink, fingers grinding slightly against my <<if $Pubes == "bald">>smooth skin<<else>>hair<</if>> on top of my mound, I gasped, freezing as I realized someone was looking in my window. <br><br> It was gardening day. I had forgotten and definitely not taken precautions, in flagrante delicto. When he noticed I noticed, he grinned, waving the shears in his gloved hand. <br><br> <div id = "caught"> <<if $Risky gt 0>> Keep going? <<link "Fuck it">><<replace "#caught">> <<set $Excitable ++>>Since my fingers were already pausing, I used them to give a little wave as I smirked back. My free hand slid up to my <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>>perky<</if>><<print $Tits>> and began to tweak one nipple as my fingers resumed my second climb of the afternoon. <br><br> He grinned broadly and leaned on the hedge by the window, watching intently as I worked myself up again, nodding in agreement as my body lurched moments before I would cum as I stopped. A little sweaty, heart thumping, I grinned broadly at him and patted lightly at my pussy. <br><br> I got focused at that point, lest I actually cum too quickly, and him watching gave me more to get aroused about. A third, fourth, fifth, sixth hill, dots forming in my vision as I gasped up at the ceiling, fingers trembling. I needed to stop or else I wouldn't be able to control myself. With a throbbing ache in my core I slid off the bed with wobbly legs and rolled my eyes as I saw he had been recording. <br><br> Okay, enough of that. I yanked the curtain shut with a quick little [[kiss-y face|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<br> <</if>> Quickly <<link "shut the curtains">><<replace "#caught">> <<set $Stable ++>><<set $Risky -->>Oh, //fuck// no. The pink in my cheeks became red as I bounced and jiggled my way over to the window. Yanking the curtains shut, I vowed to add that to my calendar -- I'd not forget ''that'' detail [[again|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>? <<if $MaleAttention gt 1>> Give him a <<link "show">><<replace "#caught">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $wiles ++>> Well, this certainly got more interesting. He was //cute//. The sweaty, dirty glisten on his body gave me more to work with. My fingers -- already paused -- gave a little wave to him and then a 'come here' curl. His eyes popped and I nodded. He disappeared. <br><br> I took the moment to bring myself up the hill again, grunting out as I heard movement inside the house, which brought my arousal nearly to a surprising peak and I had to squirm, yanking my hand away from my pussy just in time. <br><br> And as I gasped up at the ceiling, I saw him again, entering my room. Not alone. All three of the gardening team were around my bed, "Bonita..." came the old one. <br><br> My body was a little pre-occupied to do anything, "N-no touching." I tried to wave them off with one hand. <br><br> "Sí, Sí, Sí." The middle-aged one nodded and made a little blocking move with his arms. Content enough with that, I started again. I felt the weight of one of them joining me on the bed as I moaned and breathed hard. <br><br> Hearing their comments about my body, their encouragement, smelling the exhaustion and testosterone of their bodies...it was the best session I'd ever had. <br><br> It was probably the best job they'd had either. And most months we had some kind of a repeat -- [[win-win|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'gang'>> <<set _fight = 0>> How had //I// become a part of a gang? Don't judge a book by its cover. I didn't get corrupted, I didn't fall in with the bad kids. I don't think people really understand the reason behind coming together, having people solid around you. A team. A community. <br><br> It had, honestly, just been happenstance. I was coming home from school and stopped short, seeing these kids -- well, they were older than me, but kid-like energy -- hanging precariously from the edge of a roof. One had a spray can and the rest were cheering him on. <br><br> "What'cha doin?" I called up to them. Even the one dangling for his life looked down to me, as if there was zero danger. Immediately, I could sense they were preparing to attack or run...and then...There was a collective look of surprise and curiosity. <br><br> "Initiation, hot stuff. Come on up." It was then I realized that they were older than me, and this guy was closer to thirty. His name was Amari and he led our group. He had years of experience and deeply cared about ''his''. It felt fatherly, it felt friendly, it felt like home. <br><br> And not a day later, it was time for my <<linkreplace "initiation">> <div id = "initiation"> I had been given the option to either get <<link "sexed in">><<replace "#initiation">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $Risky ++>><<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $wiles ++>>The couple girls that were part of the group had let me know it was the expected way in, and since I had a pussy, I'd be hooking up with the gang anyway, might as well start from the start. And so I spent the afternoon in a parking lot in the back of a Honda Civic. <br><br> They were all chilling, blasting music from the car speakers and getting drunk off Bud Light they'd lifted last night. One by one, they would get into the backseat, chatting with each other as I gave them head. It was hours of the most casual sexual activity, my jaw ached, my neck throbbed, my hands were pruned and raw. My mouth tasted of bleach-y, salty tang as the gang busted nuts in my mouth. <br><br> My win, though, was despite how turned on I got -- thanks teen hormones -- and how pushy and handsy some of them got, it never escalated to sex. The girls were surprised. I was proud. <br><br> My body felt absolutely destroyed, though. I wondered if I'd be less exhausted and beaten down if I had gotten jacked in [[instead|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "jacked in">><<replace "#initiation">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $Confident ++>><<set $discipline ++>><<set $athletics ++>>An abandoned parking lot, at night. Car headlights providing illumination as I squared off against one of the gang's female members. <br><br> Our hair was up, jewelry put away, clothing as tight and unimportant as I could manage. I'd never been in a fight. She certainly had. I had heard that girls usually took the sex-in route, or weren't given an option. I hoped I wouldn't come out of this broken and scarred. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 1>><<set _fight ++>>While she looked good, slender and attractive, it probably was more diet than effort, I could tell quickly that my body was more used to exertion.<br><</if>> <<if $perception gt 1>><<set _fight ++>>Most of a fight was maneuver and reading your opponent. I seemed to be able to catch her steps off the shift in her weight, and her strikes from the tension in her shoulders.<br><</if>> <<if $coordination gt 1>><<set _fight ++>>The parking lot was bare, but old, and even tussling on asphalt had its own dangers, but I kept my footing as we made contact.<br><</if>> <<if $discipline gt 1>><<set _fight ++>>A strike to the face, a punch to the gut, wrenched hair or the goddamn clawing -- I steeled myself against the pain and bodily shock.<br><</if>> <<if $deception gt 1>><<set _fight ++>>Key to fighting was out-thinking your opponent. And I clearly had an edge, catching her unawares most of the time.<br><</if>> We tore into each other, screaming like <div id = "fight"> <<link "banshees">><<replace "#fight">> banshees. <<if _fight gt 3>> The brutality of the finish was not something I had even conceived of as I jammed her head against the ground. Her body went limp, my eyes went wide, I instantly regretted this and hoped I hadn't killed her. My new clan whooped and tugged my bruised and beaten body up from my still opponent. <br><br> While I felt elation, I kept trying to turn back to her motionless body on the concrete while they congratulated me and I was [[inducted|CC019 - HSVign2]].<<else>>The brutality of the finish was not something I had even conceived of -- but she had -- my hands grasping for her wrists as she clamped onto my head and slammed me down against the concrete. Black. <br><br> When I woke up, I was in her bed sometime the next morning. I hurt all over. She had spent a few moment of my unconsciousness beating my body til she had been stopped. But now she was nursing my bruised and beaten body back to the living. And I had been [[inducted|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</replace>><</link>>, or <<link "tagged in">><<replace "#initiation">> <<set $Stable ++>><<set $coordination ++>>And there I was, hanging by my wrist, thirty or forty feet above the street below, body banging up against the brick wall as one of the guys let me dangle over my death. It all depended on our hands staying clasped. I willed my palms to not sweat as I grunting and tried to gain purchase with my feet and use my free hand to do some art. <br><br> The fun part had been designing my tag during home room in a sketchpad. But now I had to execute. I don't know why I had thought they wouldn't be doing the same kind of thing as the previous inductee -- and here I was, wearing a skirt. <br><br> I was giving a show, luckily to no one as my thighs and calves tensed, spread widely and I sprayed. No time to think about decency as I applied my mark to the side of an apartment building. <br><br> The skirt was up around my hips, the guys leaning over the ledge getting not only between my legs <<if $Undies == "Commando">>of my <<if $Pubes == "bald">>bare mound<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>hairy mound<<elseif $Pubes == "strip">>landing strip<<elseif $Pubes == "bikini">>manicured womanscape<</if>> and pink<<else>>of my underwear color of choice of the day<</if>>, but also of my bouncing chest. <br><br> I strained, tugging myself up for leverage, fingertips digging into the meaty flesh of his arm. Eventually, nearing the end, I wasn't proud of my exhausted whimpers, but I was done. I was alive, hauled back up and rolling onto my back as I tossed the can away, panting breathlessly while just leaving the show. I was racked with a near-death experience and recovering from such a weird ask of my body. They cheered me on, circling me and applauding. I laughed, smiled, sighed, smacking my palms against the hot roof in finality. <br><br> I was [[inducted|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</linkreplace>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'volunteer'>> Giving of my free time wasn't only for experiences and my college application. It really felt good. My usual haunt was the nearby Salvation Army, and the 'hiring' process was ridiculously easy. They needed bodies, especially free bodies. Matias, a middle-aged man with an accent I could never place, ran the place. He was simultaneously beaten-down and over it and supremely kind, giving and invested. <br><br> <div id = "vol"> Mostly, he'd assign me to work the <<link "cash register">><<replace "#vol">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Suggestible -->>We weren't exactly the most in-demand store in town. Our typical customers fell into two broad categories: those slumming for vintage finds for resale or their own vanity, and those who made your heart ache. <br><br> The former would try and haggle with me at the counter. Haggle. Over donated goods. Over things designed for the 'have nots'. It infuriated me and gave me a distinct pleasure to be able to find ways to say no. It was them that kept the place running anyway. <br><br> The latter really opened my eyes to all the different strata below the 'average' line. Not just the displaced and unhoused, but those that were struggling under the weight of family and capitalism. It was mothers and fathers, it was kids who'd run away from nasty situations, it was normal people who'd been dealt a bad hand. <br><br> Sometimes I'd have to step in and stop theft. From both kinds of people. The needs and why's behind the act were so vastly different, but I loved getting security sic'd on the ones that took because they could and I also loved putting a few dollars in the register instead of ratting on those that were taking because they [[needed to|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "bins">><<replace "#vol">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Excitable -->>Absolutely back-breaking labor because I was bent over most of the day, rummaging through bags of the most varied items in the world. Most of it was essentially trash that people went through far too much effort to get into a landfill. Some of it was gems or little nostalgia that made me smile. <br><br> A lot of it was folding clothes. Packing clothes. Storing clothes. And then the stocking. <br><br> Up a ladder that had probably seen use in the early 20th century, trying to figure out a way for //me// to get things up or down solo. <br><br> "You okay?" I nearly fell off the ladder. <br><br> Matias. "Uh. Yeah. Thank you." His hand steadied the ladder. I worked the box off the shelf. Then cold and prickles went down my back. I was in a skirt. <br><br> I tried to ignore the situation as I clambered awkwardly down the ladder, legs working wide and knees open. He was getting an absolute front-row ''Show'' of <<if $Undies == "Commando">><<print $Name>>'s holes.<<else>>the upskirt performance of the year.<</if>> <br><br> He didn't mention anything. I didn't either. "Don't be getting yourself killed. Call me over if you're going up a ladder again." Oh, I'm sure you wanted me to. <br><br> I tried to make sure I wore at least shorts from [[then on|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "donation station">><<replace "#vol">> I was like the mall Santa when it wasn't Winter. Standing by a tripod little box and trying to guilt people into putting their loose change in the slot. <br><br> Did people have change anymore? Didn't really seem like it. And it tried my wherewithal. Getting no's was tough, especially when they came with utter dismissal of my existence. They'd walk by, no matter how cute I looked. <br><br> But, occasionally I think my femininity and the surprise at the station not just being attended by some down and out dude did mean for more donations than expected. <br><br> //But// it was usually from guys that I really wasn't that interested in talking to. And man, did they want to talk. Why were they hanging around a mall anyway? <br><br> And I was captive. Stuck by the little red tripod until the end of my shift. I had some uncomfortable encounters, but being public saved me from worse. <br><br> It was my toil, but at least I could [[people watch|CC019 - HSVign2]].<<set $wiles ++>><<set $Confident ++>> <</replace>><</link>> at the mall. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'sporty'>> As the leaves started to turn, I was out in cleats, truly getting my steps in as we ran back and forth on the soccer field. Coach Ben would blow the whistle and we'd do sprints, burpees, cones -- he always had a new drill for us to do. And then we'd settle into our positions for some mock play. Guys got to do shirt and skins, we settled on orange pinnies. <br><br> It wasn't the most glamorous of the sports -- football was in season, but our Dads and Moms were on the sidelines with an impressive number of other spectators. I guess bare coltish legs pelting across an open field, all the bouncing that came with it, plus hearing girls grunt had its own draw. <br><br> I squared up <div id = "position"> <<link "defending the net">><<replace "#position">> <<set $perception ++>><<set $Confident ++>> in the goal, knees flexed and leaning slightly forward as I watched the rest of my team scramble back and forth across the field. A few steps to the left, a shift to the right. Planted, ready. <br><br> And then the ball was punted to the other end. Relax. Stretch a bit. Cheer on my girls. <br><br> It's coming back. Focused, on the balls of my feet as the attack came, as my defenders tried their best -- nudging the attacking angle out of position. And then came the strike: <br><br> <<if $athletics + $coordination + $perception - $Excitable gte 7>> My hands caught leather and the ball went over the net, "Corner!" called Coach Ben with another blow of his whistle. As I dusted the grass off myself, he gave me a nod and thumbs up. I was a solid goalie and kept our [[team competitive|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <<else>> My fingertips brushed the rocket that was a soccer ball, but too late, I had gotten distracted and the goal was made. Coach Ben blew his whistle and as I dusted the grass off myself he hustled center for the kickoff. I wasn't the best goalie, but none of the other girls [[wanted the job|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, <<link " in the backfield">><<replace "#position">> <<set $coordination ++>><<set $Stable ++>> defending our goal. A slight jog as I kept a good vector on a potential attack, watching their strikers and ensuring that they didn't have a breakaway. <br><br> And then the pass went deep into the enemy territory and I crossed mid-field, ready to redirect the attack for an assist, to put pressure on their out of place defenders. A shot on goal, no good. <br><br> Now it was heading our way, backpedaling and getting my ass in gear, their counter-attack was coming. I fell alongside their Forward, both of our chests heaving as we matched stride. <br><br> Then she tried to juke... <<if $coordination + $athletics + $discipline - $Suggestible gte 7>> Nope! not on my watch. I took the opportunity for a sliding tackle, sending the ball off her foot and out to the sidelines. <br><br> Our throw-in! Coach Ben blew his whistle and getting a jog on. As the girls hustled for a continuation of play, I brushed myself off and gave their Forward a 'good game' smack on the ass. She gave me a double-smack and Coach Ben threw me a thumbs-up. I was a great defender and kept our opposition trying down the other side [[of the field|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <<else>> Nope! Not on my watch. I took the opportunity for a slide tackle, but she was ready for it -- had planned it -- and I went under her stride and missed the ball. <br><br> Goal. Coach Ben blew his whistle and got his jog on for a kickoff. As the girls hustled into position for the next play, I brushed myself off, feeling a quick, hard smack on my ass as their scoring Forward passed me with a wink. I wasn't the best defender and definitely known to be the [[weak point|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, <<link " as a striker">><<replace "#position">> <<set $athletics ++>><<set $Risky ++>> ready to attack, salivating for a score. At mid-line I jogged sideways, keeping in range of their attack, watching our defenders do their difficult job and ready for a sudden reversal of fortune. <br><br> And there it was. A great sacrifice of a body, tackle and the black and white was spinning my way. Awesome. Time for a counter-attack. I trapped the ball and spun on a dime, pressing into their field quickly. Aggressive. //Hungry//. <br><br> Their defender, slightly out of position, tried to vector in on me. Our chests heaved, our muscles strained and tensed, our eyes darting around trying to measure everything around us. <br><br> I saw their misstep and my opportunity... <<if $coordination + $athletics + $deception + $Stable gte 7>> Her eyes went wide, she knew I was beating her and she had a split-second to react. She chose to collide while trying for the ball. Coach Ben blew his whistle -- foul. Time for a Free Kick. <br><br> Not Beckham or Keira Knightly, but I had a little bend in my shot. Up, around and...in. Goal! The girls crowded around me, grabbing me tight and all getting solid smacks in on my ass before we headed back for the kickoff. Coach Ben threw me a thumbs-up. I was a great forward, girls knew to [[worry about me|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <<else>> I didn't have the edge I expected and she tackled, sending the ball off my cleat and to the sideline. Their throw-in. Shit. <br><br> Coach Ben blew his whistle and the girls got ready for continuation of play as the defender gave me a little wink. I was a weak attacker, but occasionally things fell [[my way|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> /*<<if $hsv == 'tailgate'>> <</if>>*/ <<if $hsv == 'outdoors'>> One of the best things about living in the Pacific Northwest was the proximity to wild, 'untamed' nature. When the weather was compliant, I'd spend a weekend a month trying a new trail. <br><br> Meditation in solitude, the gentle exertion while communing with Mother Nature, it was a dream. Immensely relaxing after the stress of school, home, and whatever odds and ends of annoyance my 'friends' threw at me. Phone on silent. Disconnected. <br><br> My favorite trails were <div id = "trails"> <<link "the popular ones">><<replace "#trails">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Risky -->>Solitude without being alone. The little hi's and smiles as you passed a couple coming the other way. <br><br> The trails were well-kept, well-worn and well-known. While it didn't make for a difficult hike, I just did them to get away from everyone else. And you got to have these little moments with other people as you stopped for lunch or a water break. <br><br> It could be knowledge about the trail up ahead, comments about the day...or their dogs. That was the best thing about these walks: owners with their mutts. You could tell how happy they were to be sniffing around, leaping up the dirt trails and chasing a bird or squirrel. <br><br> We were all supposed to be out here, in [[my opinion|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "the tough ones">><<replace "#trails">> <<set $athletics ++>><<set $Confident ++>>Breakneck was part of the name? I was there. The more climbing, the more gradient, the more I wanted to try it out. I wanted to push myself and conquer whatever had stopped other hikers. <br><br> <<print $MName>> begged me to stop going out there as we were nursing another sprained ankle or my cut-up hands. But that made me want to go out again next weekend. Everyone out there was as serious as I was. Hiking was supposed to be difficult. There's a reason trail and trial used the same letters. <br><br> And that rush when you just conquered a ridge or overgrown path and got to give a little advice to the next person making the ascent? Golden. <br><br> Best though was at the end -- there was some beautiful vista showing just how small people were compared to the world -- oxygen deprivation in the brain was like a kind of euphoric drug. [[Gimme more|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "the unknown ones">><<replace "#trails">> <<set $investigation ++>><<set $Excitable ++>>There was an elite few who were pathfinders of old. Resurrecting old trails that weren't in service any more, or finding our own way in the wilderness. <br><br> It required a certain way of thinking: caution and pre-planning were the name of the game. No one was out there to save you if something went wrong...and nine times out of ten, these weren't official trails and we weren't supposed to be out there either. <br><br> But to dig your mark into a tree, denoting to the next hiker -- the follower -- where you had been before. It was a little like being a modern day Sacagawea. Plus, it was so serenely quiet. Only animals as companions and neighbors. <br><br> And then you'd return, worn out, but dropping a pin online, leaving the information on a website. And there it was: my contribution, my creation, my [[path|CC019 - HSVign2]]. If only life were that easy. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'piano'>> Madame Demianova was of few words, strong hands, and a serious demeanor. I'd show up twice a week in the afternoons once classes ended and we'd sit in her living room. Scales. Intervals. <br><br> I was glad to be done with "Mary Had a Little Lamb," and "Twinkle, Twinkle" -- but practicing playing wasn't so much about having fun and playing as getting the muscles into memory. <br><br> She didn't swat my hands, but she was firm and instructive. It was also kind of cute -- there was always a cup of tea waiting for me when I arrived. <br><br> "Alright. Enough. <<print $Name>>. I'm having recital. What will you play?" I had a choice? This was new. I tried to fight the excited smile that was clearly dancing across my face. <br><br> <div id = "piano"> <<link "Classical">><<replace "#piano">> <<set $Stable ++>><<set $discipline ++>>It pleased her immensely, I could tell. And I guess it was what was expected of people playing piano at a recital. Some Chopin would do the trick. <br><br> She dug out her musty library of Chopin and we proceeded to work through the choices. I think she enjoyed it most getting to play each piece, even the easily recognizable ones -- but it was all to give me a taste of what they were. <br><br> It was a rare release and opportunity for her, so I sipped tea and gave my fingers [[a rest|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 1]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br>? <<link "Modern">><<replace "#piano">> <<set $learning ++>><<set $Sophisticated ++>>Just because it was new doesn't mean it was easy. People've been trying to take the Masters and give them their own spin for hundreds of years. <br><br> They tended to be more difficult, but also it would be something that people wouldn't know. I would be bringing something new to the table and maybe impress a few people. <br><br> She didn't have much on hand, but played through some Cage and Bernstein to give me some options. My mind was already running wild as I considered options. <br><br> I spent the evening on YouTube, checking things out and seeing what [[grabbed me|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 2]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br>? <<link "Popular">><<replace "#piano">> <<set $Excitable ++>><<set $performance ++>>I think she nearly dropped dead. Disappointment rang clear in her expression. But it also didn't look like something she hadn't heard before. <br><br> She wouldn't fight me on it, which was honorable of her and I was thankful for that at least -- I don't know if I could stand up to her resilient, austere presence. <br><br> "Fine. Bring it Thursday." And with that, we adjourned early. Probably so she could scream when I left. <br><br> I went through my playlists, seeing what songs I liked and checking to see if I could find sheet music...and if it could even be played by a piano. Wow. Finding something good and usable was going to be harder than I [[thought|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit = 3]]. <</replace>><</link>> <br>? </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'read'>> I liked school well enough, and was certainly good at it, but that didn't mean I wanted to stay in school forever. I could graduate early and get to college sooner, or do the work now and save time later for something else. A trade of time. I had time now with few options, time later had so many more possibilities! <br><br> I was already taking as many Advanced and college-credit classes that my high school offered, but there was Community College that could accelerate the process. So, my days were school days and nights were school nights. <br><br> <div id = "goal"> First, I needed to focus on what the goal was: <<link "early graduation ">><<replace "#goal">> <<set $Age -->>Most of my classmates fell into the category of remedial adults, trying to get equivalency, some were more middle-aged and trying something new -- getting a degree in something else while they worked during the day, and others were just bored old people as far as I could tell. So that left me, the overachiever to remind them of failures, missed opportunities and essentially be the pariah that no one wanted to associate with. <br><br> Upside? The TAs and adjuncts teaching the classes appreciated the right answers and the work ethic I brought to class, and I tended to be closer to their age as well. I gotta say, my butt really got used to the feeling of [[desks|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> or a lighter load in <<link "college">><<replace "#goal">> <<set $APTaken = true>>Most of my classmates fell into the category of remedial adults, trying to get equivalency, some were more middle-aged and trying something new -- getting a degree in something else while they worked during the day, and others were just bored old people as far as I could tell. So that left me, the overachiever to remind them of failures, missed opportunities and essentially be the pariah that no one wanted to associate with. <br><br> Upside? The TAs and adjuncts teaching the classes appreciated the right answers and the work ethic I brought to class, and I tended to be closer to their age as well. I gotta say, my butt really got used to the feeling of [[desks|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <br><br> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'job'>> As soon as I could, I jumped at the opportunity to make a little Skrilla on the side. It would give me some freedom to buy what I wanted, do what I wanted, and be the person I wanted to be. <br><br> <div id = "jobchoice"> There was the perennial option of <<link "working in a restaurant">><<replace "#jobchoice">> I filled out a couple applications, dropped them off across the chains and local joints in our area and heard back relatively quickly from Ida's. <br><br> "So. <<print $Name>>. First job, eh? Getting a jump on everyone else your age...that's good." Deborah scanned the sparse entries on my application while talking essentially to herself. "So. I've got an opening at reception." <br><br> <div id = "placement"> <<if $spoiled == true || $Risky gt 0 || $Confident gt 0>> My initial reaction: "Really? I was thinking <<link "server">><<replace "#placement">> Deb flushed. A stern gaze. A showdown at high...three PM...<<if ($Attractiveness + $Confident + $Sophisticated + $Stable + $deception) gte 7>><<set $makeit = 3>>"Well, there might be a shift or two we could have you do a trial run." I beamed as I slid out of the booth, "See you [[this weekend|CC019 - HSVign2]]."<<else>><<set $Confident ++>>"I appreciate your pluck, but now's not the time. We have a full staff of servers. See you this weekend for your first shift at the door." She slid out of the booth, leaving me unceremoniously alone. Well, at least [[I tried|CC019 - HSVign2]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>>..." but did I say those words or <<link "take what I could get">><<replace "#placement">> <<set $Stable ++>><<set $discipline ++>>"Perfect. Just show up on time, look nice, smile and keep our servers happy and you'll do great. Look forward to seeing you this weekend!" I nodded and slid out of the booth, it sounded straight-forward and [[simple enough|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>? <<else>> "Oh, okay. Yeah <<link "that sounds good">><<replace "#placement">> "Perfect. Just show up on time, look nice, smile and keep our servers happy and you'll do great. Look forward to seeing you this weekend!" I nodded and slid out of the booth, it sounded straight-forward and [[simple enough|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>" <</if>> </div> <</replace>><</link>> , join the legions of Dashers and <<link "do deliveries">><<replace "#jobchoice">> <<set $makeit = 1>>Enlisting was insanely simple, just upload a picture of your ID, give them access to my location on my phone, and switch on or off the "Deliver" button. There were a litany of terms and conditions, legal blah blah, and eventually my eyes glazed over and I just hit Accept. Seemed easy enough. I grabbed my bike and got ready to help out some [[lazy asses for cash|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>, or there was always <<link "retail">><<replace "#jobchoice">> <<set $makeit = 2>>I walked the corridors of the slowly dying dinosaur of the mall, tossing some applications around, receiving some perfunctory interviews and then returned home. A day later <<print $MName>> let me know that an Abercrombie had called to let me know I was hired and to show up [[this weekend|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'beach'>> <<silently>><<undress>><<upper "bathingsuit">><</silently>> There's nothing like the sun's rays beating down, collecting a nice tan...ahh...What better reason to take this 'job'? <br><br> Just watching the waves crash and making sure dumb-dumbs don't drown is a pretty easy gig.<br> <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Also it's a great place to scope guys.<</if>><br> Work on my swimming.<br> Read a <<if $Opening !== "dumb">>spy Thriller<<else>>pulpy romance<</if>>.<br> Catch up on sleep. Oops? <br><br> It was a typical day like any. Hundreds of patrons all flapping gaily, enjoying all that pearls had to offer. <br><br> Children frolic and scamper. People of all ages (ugh. //all// ages) take dips in the water. <br><br> It's mostly reapplying sunscreen. And there was a lot of exposed <<print $Skin>> skin I needed to keep from cooking. <br><br> My fingers tugged and peeled away the chipped paint on my wooden stand. I was only a few hours into my Saturday shift. Lifeguards are expected to have a vigilant eye but keeping watch gets tiresome. <br><br> Then, in the distance, screams. <div id = "help"> <<link "Help?">><<replace "#help">> <<set $perception ++>>Help. <br><br> Swiftly, my red buoy was in hand and I leapt over the aging railing and hit the powdery sand in stride. <br><br> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>> My fit form had me effortlessly skimming over the sand that tried to suck me down. I was at the crowd within 30 seconds. <br><br> I surveyed the waterline and saw someone, flailing like a fish. In an all-out sprint, I headed for the waves. <br><br> <<if $Tits == "huge">> Sadly, despite wearing a classic, red one-piece with the broadest chest, my breasts flopped around nearly smacking me in the face. Luckily, the suit kept them restrained even as I drew my hands over my head, my <<print $Hair>> hair immediately soaked in the salt-curtain crest. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 3>> <<set $Confident ++>> //My// flotation devices were not serving my purposes. The waves were proving difficult to slice through, but I made it to the flailer. Tucking them close, I paddled back, guiding them onto the beach -- they needed CPR. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> Focused on dragging <<if $Sexuality == 1>>him<<else>>her<</if>> in, I didn't take stock of my appearance. Water sputtered from their mouth as I checked their vitals -- the victim, now, the saved. And they weren't sputtering simply from the water: the top of my swimsuit was now a thong and my girls were hanging in their faceOh well, hehe. Job has to [[get done|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <br><br> <<else>> The weight of a drowning person is difficult to contend with. Tugging them on to the beach, my breasts tried to escape but with a deft hand, I returned them to their red cage. I worked diligently, performing CPR and soon they coughed up water and [[opened their eyes|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> <<set $athletics ++>>I knew I wasn't too athletic, but man, my tits were making this far harder than I expected. I wouldn't be deterred, eventually snagging my drowning victim. I managed to lay their body onto the wet warm sand, frighteningly still. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> The waterlogged <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> was more difficult than anticipated. My breaths were heaving, but //they// needed to be breathing. I began my assessment and noticed eyes on me but, I was...oh! Hehe, they're just [[boobs|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <br><br> <<else>> In the midst of dragging the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> onto the shore, I made a mental note to do more weight training. Now, safely away from the waves, I realized 'the girls' were out. While dropping to my knees, I tucked them in and began [[assessing the victim|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> I am no Baywatch babe, but my body had some bounce. Luckily, these red one pieces are tight and firm holding. my hands over my head while my <<print $Hair>> hair immediately soaked as I dove into the crest. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 3>> <<set $Confident ++>>My arms slid through the water as if it were tissue paper and soon, I was saving them from being shark bait. Using an over-arm technique, I snagged the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> while arming myself with the buoy and pulled them ashore. My toned thighs making it look good as well as look easy. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation does not always have to be used. I assessed the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>>...their lips were pouty but not blue. Still, this was my first drowning victim, so I proceeded with "mouth to mouth." Their tongue clued me in to switch tactics, and that they were alright. [[Yay|CC019 - HSVign2]]! <br><br> <<else>> Fist over fist I pumped on their chest. Their lips not being blue they mean they didn't have severe...drowning--whatever it's called. So after some firm pumps bubbles of water came out their mouth and I [[sat them up|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> <<set $athletics ++>>I wasn't top of my lifeguarding group, but I faired well in the trials. So getting to the bobber was tougher than expected, but easily in time. I managed to buoy the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>>, so I could struggle to get them ashore. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> I was huffing and puffing so hard my brain couldn't function on my training. Seeing how attractive they were, my instinct kicked in as my hands worked their chest. This <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> had nice looking pillows. Had to be careful to not use tongue. Still my skills prevailed and water burst into my mouth. They were [[saved|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <br><br> <<else>> I was laboring pretty hard getting the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> to shore. Luckily, the lifeguard training kicked in as hard as the mule who clearly kicked my chest. Luckily, I powered through, managing to get the bubbles of water out of my unconscious wet fish of a [[patient|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> I felt as though I was plodding, every step taken seemed draw me further away. My calves screamed at me, but I had to keep going. <br><br> <<if $Tits == "huge">> My feet were failing in the soft sand and my chest was smacking me in the face, I must have looked like a tumbling red balloon of tit flesh as I careened towards the crowd. Despite my breasts best efforts, the red suit proved to be cut broad enough. My tired legs pushed off, plunging my <<print $Hair>> locks into the surf. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 3>> <<set $Confident ++>>Carrying these funbags did award me with some benefit. I had a strong back and arms, now carrying the //actual// buoy and my buoys joining the squad as I swam to the bouncing <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Bob<<else>>Betty<</if>>. Together, the flotations made bringing the semi-unconscious vic onto the shoreline relatively effortless. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> I toted the body onto the warm, wet sand. The crowds gathered with more "ooos" and "ahhhs" than worried faces. I noticed why as I began CPR. My tits were out. Eh. Oh, well. Stare all you want boys and girls, I got a <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> to save. My titties may smother this fucker eventually, but in that moment, I got the water pumping out of their mouth.[[#Saved||CC019 - HSVign2]]. <br><br> <<else>> Semi-gracefully -- with no help from my lower half -- I managed the sack of potatoes victim on the sandy wetness. My bombastics tried to pop out, but I shifted them back in like old hat and used my CPR technique. I was able to wrestle the water out the lungs and get them [[semi-lucid|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> <<set $athletics ++>>I was not blessed with good strength, instead had healthy back problems. Thanks gazongas! Still, I had a job to do. Surprising myself, I managed the task of retrieving the ill-fated person to the shore. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> I was exhausted. My tits had flopped out. People were staring. And to top it all off, I was aching, but still had to perform CPR. Surely, I was going to faint before this <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> came back to us...but miraculously, they coughed up sea water and then smiled. [[Cheeky|CC019 - HSVign2]] <<if $Sexuality == 1>>bastard<<else>>bitch<</if>>. <br><br> <<else>> Mental note: do some cardio or something. My hefty chest felt more like an anchor as they threatened to escape the suit. I shoved 'em in tight and gave every last breath between chest compressions. As my lungs failed, they choked up the sea and then I flopped. "You're saved, my friend." [[Yay|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> Baywatch certainly wouldn't be calling me for the reboot but who cares -- I had lives to save. I approached the surf, diving in knowing the one-piece wouldn't be around my waist as I plunged towards the flopping person. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 3>> <<set $Confident ++>>My legs propelled me. My arms and back worked overtime. Swiftly, I bouyed the victim and paddled them to the crowded shore, depositing the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> carefully. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> You're not supposed to develop feelings on the job. This <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> though...//clearly// my type. I administered CPR, then when they were breathing I gave them a moment to take me in before I went back for a different administration. Sue me. They found life //and// more.[[Pay for pay||CC019 - HSVign2]]. <br><br> <<else>> My legs were tired but my training was already in overdrive. Pumping the chest and administering CPR. Despite the throb in my lower half, I got the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> breathing again. I turned them and their lungs [[expelled fluid|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> <<set $athletics ++>>This was not an easy task. I wondered why I chose this job. Shut up brain! Someone needed saving. I belly flopped into the waves and swam -- doggypaddled? -- to the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> drowning. Luckily, the buoy did most of the work so that I could struggle the rest of the way to get their body onto the sand. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> Perk of the job: occasionally there was a hottie needing rescuing and this was one of those times. My brain was so tired it went into autopilot. Save the victim and get some action. A little kissing //after// CPR won't hurt. Mmm. Don't moan -- resuscitate. Wooo! There we go. Coughing and alive. [[They tasted good too|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <br><br> <<else>> I was seriously gassed, but no other lifeguards were close enough to help. With labor, I worked on the <<if $Sexuality == 1>>guy<<else>>girl<</if>> and after what felt like five minutes, I managed to get them to spill their lungs and sputter up. They [[were alive again|CC019 - HSVign2]] -- I nearly passed out dead. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> <<link "Play fear">><<replace "#help">> <<set $Confident -->>Yeah, just someone playing. <br><br> The screams were probably just people playing chicken. (Narrator: They weren't.) Plus there were other lifeguards near enough-ish to help out. (Narrator: They were.) No one came running to the stand. It'd be fine. I chilled there. [[Yeah that's wise|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> ? My eyes narrowed, focused. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'cheer'>> The 'society' in highschool had an echelon set aside for the elite: the cheer squad. It required dance skills, looks, and being allowed into the special class of 'citizen'. <br><br> Tryouts lasted a //week//. <br><br> So that Monday afternoon I rolled out of class early, getting my head in the game before I had to download a lot of choreography quickly. <br><br> I wasn't the first one there. The girls who had made the squad previously were already milling around in towels and chattering excitedly. <br><br> <<if $Pubes == "bush" || $Pubes == "strip">> <span id = "pubes"> Then they saw me and the conversation stopped cold. <br><br> I received more than a few raised eyebrows and Bella even commented, "Well, that's...a deep cut," while eyeing my...lower hairstyle. <br><br> From that moment on, it was hard not to compare myself to the wholesale expectation to go bald. Only Ella and Stella maintained a little more, like a landing strip. <br><br> <<if $Suggestible || $Confident lt 0>>By the time I had finished a shower, I had decided between the <<button "Line">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "strip">><<set $makeit ++>><</replace>><</button>> and <<button "Hollywood">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "bald">><</replace>><</button>> look.<br><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>>I decided I'd keep rocking my <<button "bush">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $makeit -= 2>><</replace>><</button>> how I wanted. Fuck'em.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>I wasn't going to be the odd-ball and decided tomorrow I'd show up with a <<button "Line">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "strip">><<set $makeit ++>><</replace>><</button>><<button "Hollywood">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "bald">><</replace>><</button>><br><</if>> <<if $Stable gte 0 && $Suggestible lte 0 && $Confident gte 0>>I preferred being <<button "Unique">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Stable -->><</replace>><</button>><br><</if>> A little late for the choreo, but I had a matching <<button "Smile">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "bald">><<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $makeit ++>><</replace>><</button>> rather than endure more stares.<br> </span> <br> <</if>> Monday, we were dressed down by the head cheerleader and beaten into us that we would need time, dedication, hard work, spirit, sharpness, and ability. As if. Then they ran us through some tumbling to ascertain our initial status. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 0 || $performance gt 0 || $discipline gt 0 || $coordination gt 0>>I could tell that I had the qualities to [[make the team|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit ++]].<</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>The whispers and looks let me know that I would be a trophy for them to have [[on the team|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit += 2]].<</if>> <<if $social gt 0>>My network of friends was bearing fruits, despite some missteps, I could sense them [[moving me on anyway|CC019 - HSVign2][$makeit += 2]].<</if>> <<if $Confident gte 0>>Even with a poor showing day one, I was determined to return [[tomorrow|CC019 - HSVign2]].<</if>> I considered [[dropping out|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> <<silently>> <<undress>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">> <</silently>> <<if $hsv == 'barn'>> <<if $attemptBig == true>> I sighed, pressing down the edges of the paper, contemplating the list of options in front of me. <br><br> <<if $barnpeople == false>> A party <<link "needed people" `passage()`>> <<set $barnpeople to true>><<if $barntime + $social gte 5>><<set $FFpeople = 1>><</if>><<set $barntime -->> <</link>>. This also needed to feel exclusive and exciting. <<else>> <<if $FFpeople == 1>> I curated a ''perfect'' list of names. Upperclassmen, the hottest and most popular Underclassmen, Damian -- the super Senior that was always a good time, and the townies who threw their own parties with discretion. I waited til the ideal moment to send out invites. Build up enough mystique without everyone figuring out their way in. <<else>> The invites went out. A list of who's who in town. Damian --the super Senior that was always a good time, and the townies who threw their own parties with discretion, and even a selection of the creme de la creme of Underclassmen. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $barnmusic == false>> I needed something to make people <<link "dance" `passage()`>><<set $barnmusic to true>><<if $barntime + $performance gte 3>><<set $FFmusic = 1>><</if>><<set $barntime -->><</link>>. Spotify playlist and bluetooth speaker wouldn't cut it. <<else>> <<if $FFmusic == 1>> After vetting a couple of options, I went with this awesome Ska band, Hot Tub Ska Machine, almost no one would know them, thanks to them being over state lines, but they would knock everyone's socks off, I'm sure. <<else>> I asked <<print $FFName>> to build out and run a playlist. While they handled that, I was able to rent some equipment that would make it feel more legit. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $barndrink == false>> Everyone would turn around and leave if there wasn't constant <<link "drinks" `passage()`>><<set $barndrink to true>><<if $barntime + $deception gte 2 || $barntime + $Attractiveness gte 4>><<set $FFdrink = 1>><</if>><<set $barntime -->><</link>>. And, the drunker they got, the more fun it would be. Mostly. <<else>> <<if $FFdrink == 1>> Okay, the volume was hard to come by, but using connects, trades, promises, I was able to assemble a mountain of booze that should easily last the night. And The Boys were more than happy to sling drinks in exchange for the invite. <<else>> Okay, the volume was hard to come by. I used every trick in my book without turning tricks to assemble as big of a mountain of booze as I could manage. And The Boys were more than happy to sling drinks in exchange for the invite. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $barnlocation == false>> There were tons of options, but I had to make sure <<link "where" `passage()`>><<set $barnlocation to true>><<if $barntime gte 3>><<set $FFlocation = 1>><</if>><<set $barntime -->><</link>> I chose fit the bill. It had to be easy to get to but private. Safe from authorities and for the partiers. And it had to be ''cool''. <<else>> <<if $FFlocation == 1>> There was this flat area along the creek that would do the trick. The treeline shielded sound and sight, the water would help keep things cool, and we would have more than enough space. Unfortunately, it was unclaimed because it happened to be a spot that trash collected, dumped or just the flow of water -- it took a lot of time and effort to clear it. <<else>> There was this flat area along the creek that would do the trick. The treeline shielded sound and sight, the water would help keep things cool, and we would have more than enough space. Unfortunately, it was unclaimed because it happened to be a spot that trash collected, dumped or just the flow of water -- I cleared as much as I could. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $barnsurprise == false>> I needed to spend the time making the space <<link "special" `passage()`>><<set $barnsurprise to true>><<if $barntime gte 2 && $barnlocation == true>><<set $FFsurprise = 1>><</if>><<set $barntime -->><</link>>. A 'wow'-factor. Something completely unexpected. <<else>> <<if $FFsurprise == 1>> The path to the creek was perfect for a multi-reveal. I staged an area where everyone would assemble, then have the 'gate' drop away to reveal the decorations that drew the eye to the //drinks//. Everyone would hustle on in, and then a massive curtain that looked like a simple element of decor would drop with the opening moment of music. It would be sick. <<else>> I scrambled, but site selection came too late, I wasn't able to manage to do anything especially fun. I just had to hope that everything else came together. <</if>> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $barndrugs == false>> <<link "Drugs" `passage()`>><<set $barndrugs to true>><<if $barntime + $wealth gte 6 || $Clique == "Rebel">><<set $FFdrugs = 1>><</if>><<set $barntime -->><</link>> could kick everything and everyone into the stratosphere. <<else>> <<if $FFdrugs == 1>> It wasn't cheap, but grease enough palms and know the right people and you can get together enough designer and high-quality to at least whet people's appetite. Plus, having a dealer on-site would keep it flowing. People wouldn't be happy about paying, but it was part of Vance's deal for the amount I wanted. <<else>> I just didn't know a way to get the amount of drugs on-site. And every time I found a 'vendor,' I balked at the price. Good idea, but I couldn't exactly ask family to pitch in. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $barntime lte 0>> My heart was in my throat. Time had run out. It was time for [[Fire Festival|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <<elseif $attempt == true>> <<if $ChellaDetect == true>> <<set $investigation ++>> <div id = "detect"> Asking around town about Coppice-chella wasn't exactly new. Very few had the in and even those that raved about last year, you could never quite tell if they were keeping their cards close to their chest or if they had just lied about attending. <br><br> This wouldn't be easy. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 2>> ...I could be though. Spy movies always showed info getting passed <<link "after sex">><<replace "#detect">> <<set $HSBC ++>><<set $Easy ++>>It took more than one try and as I narrowed down who __actually__ knew, there was definitely a grin and bear it, but I got my [[name on the list|CC019 - HSVign3]]and a couple notches in my belt in the process. <</replace>><</link>>... <</if>> I could <<link "brute force">><<replace "#detect">> <<if $Stable gte 0>> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $social -->> And it was __brutal__. I definitely lost some friends and acquaintances along the way, but I was dogged in my pursuit of the golden ticket. I inquired and pressed. Give me a lamp and a locked room and I could have gotten a confession out of anyone. Because...I got [[entry|CC019 - HSVign3]]! Bonnie gave it up with just slight pressure to her elbow. <<else>> <<set $ChellaDetect = false>>And it was __brutal__. Being dogged in this pursuit was clearly going to cost me social capital and I wasn't sure that getting in would balance the scales. I tried a bit softer approach, a bit more lackadaisical...but that wasn't the [[way in|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> it... There was also the doomscrolling of <<link "Insta and TikTok">><<replace "#detect">> <<if $learning + $social gte 6>> <<set $investigation ++>>I felt like a hacker on NCIS initially: triangulating friendships and even bloodlines I wasn't aware of before, finding the //right// time to send that connection request to get in under the radar. At one point, I felt compelled to do one of those string-maps as I followed the breadcrumbs to...Bonnie? ''Bonnie''?! Sweet little wallflower had not only been last year, but had a direct connect to Harry. Surprisingly, just a quick DM to the shrinking violet netted me [[access too|CC019 - HSVign3]]! <<else>> <<set $ChellaDetect = false>>I felt like a hacker on NCIS initially: triangulating friendships and even bloodlines I wasn't aware of before, finding the //right// time to send that connection request to get in under the radar. But after all was said and done, my follower count was much higher and I had a crazy understanding of the people of my town, but [[no way in|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> that might give me a lead... </div> <<elseif $ChellaDirect == true>> <<set $wiles ++>> <div id = "direct"> They weren't called 'C & H' for no reason. Always working the same jobs, always together. Hell, I heard stories they even...uh..shared ladies. And together they were a united front. <br><br> Right. So. Direct. Two choices here. Get one of the two of 'em alone. <br><br> I had actually never seen Chet by himself, but I knew that he was the one who manned the front door and only him. Well, and his shotgun. <br><br> Harry made trips into town, a little sherpa for the duo on their jobs. I had smiled to him and waved from time to time heading in or out of Lowe's. <br><br> I could either find <<link "Chet">><<replace "#direct">> <<set $ChellaDirect = false>><<set $Bodies.push("Chet, gatekeeper to Coppice-chella")>><<set $Easy ++>><<set $virgin = false>>So, I sidled up in my best going out wear, lagging back just enough so that I arrived at the gate solo. He eyed me up curiously as he shut the gate behind the previous group. "Hey Chet." Mhmm. "So.." I looked around performatively, "Looks like I might be the last one for a bit, you might have some...free time." Mhmm. He didn't budge, eyes flicking down to his list. Back to me. <br><br> I made the offer clearer, one hand nudging the dress up my thighs provocatively while my other hand gave a little tug to the zipper, "So...do you have some time?" He shrugged, Mhmm. He slid off his post and motioned for me to assume the position. Not quite a minute later I was fixing my dress and he was resuming his post, a bit lighter than moments before. <br><br> Moving over towards the gate with a bright smile I was confronted with a confused lift of his eyebrow. "I can go in, right?" His eyes were back on the list. "<<print $Name>>?" I said, voice catching in my throat. Mmmm...nuh-uh. He shook his head and waved for the next group to approach. Are you fucking [[kidding me|CC019 - HSVign3]]? <</replace>><</link>> the night of, where I knew he'd be, sitting at the entrance. Or <<link "Harry">><<replace "#direct">> <<set $Bodies.push("Harry, keymaster to Coppice-chella")>><<set $Easy ++>><<set $virgin = false>>I poked around the lumber aisle wearing a tight pair of my newest jeans. And being female in the mecca of malehood was a balancing act of being available but not //too// available. I spent a couple more hours wandering than I had expected, but then the gruff guy showed up heading to...plumbing. Shit. <br><br> I scampered over and found a perfect spot to be checking something out, bent over, cleavage on display. I looked up with a surprised smile as he rounded the corner, "Oh, hey Harry." I saw his broad grin and I knew, I was in. <br><br> He was quick in the aisle and my curiosity was ravenous. He checked out and I asked to have him explain it all again in his truck. He wasn't quick there. <br><br> and he was more than happy to oblige with a [[ticket|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>> and have an 'accidental encounter.' </div> <<else>> <<set $deception ++>> <div id = "sneak"> Partying outfits weren't exactly designed for surreptitious behavior. Skirting through brush and under the tree line to find the best place to cross a fence -- that was //designed// to keep people out -- meant staving off bugs, avoiding catches on fabric, keeping sweating under control, and literally just trying not to fall out of what you were wearing. God, guys had it so much easier. <br><br> I grunted, making it across. Finally. But that was the easy part. Now, how to get across the clean field to the small grouping of trees where I could already see lights play across the foliage. Music was coming through the speakers. I gulped, not wanting to miss a moment. <br><br> There was a <<link "group of people">><<replace "#sneak">> <<if $social gt 0 || $Attractiveness gte 4>> Coming out of the brush wasn't exactly crafty, and it got me a couple of side-long 'really?' looks, but I was relieved to feel the casual acceptance straight away. I ensconced myself in the group and made small talk as we [[made our way in|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> <<set $ChellaSneak = false>> "Whoah, whoah, whoah. Nuh-uh." A bigger guy moved straight towards me, shaking his head and pointing back the way they had come. "Check in like the rest of us." [[Shit.|CC019 - HSVign3]] <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> walking up the frontage I could try and slip in with. If I moved quickly, I could cover the distance and maybe not be seen. <<link "Running in a minidress">><<replace "#sneak">> <<if $athletics gt 0 && $coordination gt 0>> Whew. I made it, dress riding up a ton, but since I didn't get seen, neither did what I was flashing. Risk came out all for the good, flattening my dress down and giving my hair a bit of a fluff as I made [[my way in|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> <<set $ChellaSneak = false>> I'm not sure whether it was my tits bouncing all over the place, or the sight of me with a dress up around my waist, but this big guy was cutting me off in the brush, shaking his head and pointing back down towards the gate, "Nuhuh. Just cuz yer givin' a show doesn't mean you get a show." [[Shit.|CC019 - HSVign3]] <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, though? Or just straight up put my <<link "trust">><<replace "#sneak">> <<set _fail = either(true, false)>> <<if _fail == true>> <<set $ChellaSneak = false>> Slowly picking my way through the brush and unkempt field, I tried to keep as nonchalant as possible. I kept my whole look in pristine condition, but...the fates weren't on my side. A big guy broke off from the path and headed towards me, shaking his head and pointing towards the gate, "I think you missed the check-in, little lady." [[Shit.|CC019 - HSVign3]] <<else>> Slowly picking my way through the brush and unkempt field, I tried to keep as nonchalant as possible. I kept my whole look in pristine condition, strappy heels swaying from my fingertips, bare feet pushing through the tall grass. I noticed some people on the path towards the copse and I felt a chill down my spine -- would they see me? And then...[[I made it|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> in the effort I had made so far and arrive solo, as un-mussed as possible. </div> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'act'>> <<if $actpath == 1>> <<if $hometown == "NY" || $hometown == "LA">> <<set _actingopp = rand(1,10)>> It was time to pound the pavement. With new headshots in hand and some Anya Taylor-Joy sides, I auditioned. Cattle calls, agent calls, manager calls, anything and everything I could find.<br><br> <<if ($Attractiveness + $performance + $Risky + $MaleAttention - _actingopp) gte 5>> <<set $actpath = 3>> I was floored by how easy this was. It felt like more times than not, I received callbacks. I definitely got nods, smiles and chatted up after I was done. They wanted to know about me and 'where I had come from.' It [[felt //goooood//|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> It was time to pound the pavement. With new headshots in hand and some Anya Taylor-Joy sides, I auditioned. Cattle calls, agent calls, manager calls, anything and everything I could find.<br><br> <<set $actpath = 3>> I was floored by how easy this was. It felt like more times than not, I received callbacks. I definitely got nods, smiles and chatted up after I was done. They wanted to know about me and 'where I had come from.' It [[felt //goooood//|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <<elseif ($Attractiveness + $performance + $Risky + $MaleAttention - _actingopp) gt 0 && ($Attractiveness + $performance + $Risky + $MaleAttention - _actingopp) lt 5>> This was ''hard''. It felt like I was putting everything out there to be judged. And it wasn't like some test where either I had the right or wrong answer. It was softer than that. You couldn't put your finger on what went wrong or went well. <br><br> And then it all clicked. I had finished my sides and I looked up at the casting table. My headshot was being turned over and considered a few times. A couple of nods and then a smile, "Good job, <<print $Name>>. My assistant will be in touch." <br><br> I had landed [[a small role|CC019 - HSVign3]] on a procedural drama! <<else>> <<set $actpath = 4>> This was ''hard''. It felt like I was putting everything out there to be judged. And it wasn't like some test where either I had the right or wrong answer. It was softer than that. You couldn't put your finger on what went wrong or went well. <br><br> And I guess I'll never know whether it was my ability, my look, or the competition, but I never seemed to [[get anywhere|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <<elseif $actpath == 2>> Money exchanged hands every week and I received my hour-long session with Jessup. He was a paragon of his time. He had taught leading actors who had worked under people like John Ford. Not my genre of choice, but I wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth. Ha. <br><br> "No! What is she //feeeeeling//?" <br><br> "Well, I thought--" <br><br> "Think? No. __Feel__." <br><br> "Right. Got it." <br><br> And so it went, understanding that it was really putting myself in the situation, not concocting something or forcing anything. Acting was fascinating, and supremely scary. After some coachings, I felt [[very exposed|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> I found an audition posting for a production of Romeo & Juliet. Shakespeare was daunting, but the fact that there would be people trying out who were going to school nearby, or worked at the market, made it all the more digestible. <br><br> The auditorium smelled a little musty, and there was an air of pretension amongst the people wandering around. I wondered how far up into the A-listers that kind of self-obsession and entitlement went. I focused on my sides, the balcony scene. Of course it was the balcony scene. <br><br> "Tomorrow I will send...A thousand times good night!" <br><br> "Nicely done, <<print $Name>>," came the commentary from the darkened seats, "Your pentameter could use some work," he was somewhere in the...back? "but I'd like to see you here on Thursday." Oh. A callback? "for rehearsal." OH! "You'd make a beautiful Juliet." <br><br> I beamed. I blushed. I squealed and allowed myself to feel far more self-possessed than any of those other people as I [[skipped home|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'beach'>> Nearing the end of the afternoon, the sunset is wonderful perk for being a lifeguard. So many postcard-style evenings. The pinks, purples, oranges, and reds blending together across the sky, signaling the change to night. All the people were packing up as the chill night air urged them away. My sunbaked skin was <<if $Skin == "olive" || $Skin == "black" || $Skin == "golden">>nicely tanned<<else>>toasty red<</if>>. <br><br> I was about to grab my gym bag from the make''shit'' hut on stilts -- where we stored our crap -- when the sounds of radios and people //way// too excited for time caught my ears. <br><br> Grabbing the binoculars, I noticed folks had already started a fire and out of coolers? Glass. bottles. Sonuva bitch. Really? <br><br> <div id = "beach"> I was gonna have to go <<link "break this up">><<replace "#beach">> <<set $Excitable ++>>be a boss-ass bitch. <br><br> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> <<if $Pubes == "bush">> Rule 35a, Section 4, Sub-Paragraph D states: "No frolicking and fraternization can take place after dark." I __had__ to go inform them of this infraction before they were served hefty fines. <br><br> I marched proudly over to the cantankerous crowd of ne'er-do-wellers. Yep. They were drinking -- fraternization-- and laughing -- frolicking. <br><br> "Excuse me. The beach is closed." <br><br> A <<if $Sexuality == 1>>hunky young man<<else>>half-naked girl<</if>> stopped. "Whoa, hey babe. Errr...lifeguard. We aren't causing no trouble..." <br><br> "You realize you are breaking over seven city ordinances! I will be forced to call the cops." <br><br> "Come on, //hotty// lifeguard, hic...with a...woooo-ey! ''Hefty'' bush. Cut us a break. Have a beer." <br><br> "Ughhh. As if," I called the cops and the perps were arrested for all violations. [[City hero|CC019 - HSVign3]] here I come. <<else>> <br><br> FROLICKING and FRATERNIZATION at this hour? So many violations of city ordinances on //my// beach. I wouldn't have it. <br><br> I stomped over to the excited pandemonium. A fire bloomed and bottles clinked as half-naked <<if $Sexuality == 1>>men<<else>>girls<</if>> all laughed and danced to music. <br><br> "Beach is closed. Please vacate the premises immediately." <br><br> A <<if $Sexuality == 1>>strapping young man<<else>>lithe, skimpy-bikini girl<</if>> turned to me, "Hey babe. Chillax. No harm is being done. The turtles are saaaaafe." <br><br> "Last warning <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Bub<<else>>Bab<</if>>. Take a hike now and save yourself jail time and fines." <br><br> "Awww come on now ''sexy'' lifeguard. Can't you just give us the warning and let us party? We need this." <br><br> I shook my head. "Nope. Calling the cops. As promised." <br><br> The group was arrested and later fined. Me? [[Lifeguard of the month|CC019 - HSVign3]] recipient. <</if>> <<else>> <<if $Pubes == "bush">> Not on my watch. These hooligans will __not__ tarnish my beach. <br><br> I confidently marched over to their 'play area'. There was a fire going with people drinking libations. <br><br> "I am gonna need you all to pack your things and leave. This is not place to party. I will call the cops." <br><br> "Listen here, Bushels Betty." He motioned at the scraggles at my crotch, "Take your broccoli-covering 'bathing suit' wearing-ass back //home//. The beach is a free space." He took a big hit of his beer. Errrt. <br><br> "Well I...How //dare// you? I'm calling the cops." <br><br> "Oh hell, no, Bitch," he tossed a beer bottle at me. <<if $coordination gt 0>> Whiff! Like the Matrix<<else>>Boink! That fuckin' hurrrt.<</if>> <br><br> "Nice try, dumbass..." I called the cops. The perps got arrested. And I nursed <<if $coordination lte 0>>my bruised head and<</if>>my [[bruised ego|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> <br><br> I was gonna set those damn rabble rousers straight for good. I took pride in my beach and these jokers weren't going to ruin it. <br><br> My bare feet thumped firmly over the sand until I reached the campfire and music. <br><br> "Hey folks. This isn't allowed on the beach. Alcohol, campfires. City ordinances and all. Please vacate the premises." <br><br> The nearest, semi-drunk <<if $Sexuality == 1>>man<<else>>girl<</if>> looked me over. "Err, the beach is //public//. We can be here. Fuck off ''uggo'' lifeguard." <br><br> "Don't make me involve the law. Just get your stuff and go." <br><br> Still bitter, <<if $Sexuality == 1>>he<<else>>she<</if>> walked up to me and SHOVED. "Take your scrawny ass home and stop bothering us." <br><br> <<if $Confident gte 0>> <br><br> Anticipating the move, I grabbed a wrist and tugged. Immediately, it was pinned behind his back. "I //said//: it's ''fucking'' time to __go__. Go now or I call the cops!" <br><br> Seeing their buddy get woman-handled, they packed their shit quicker than they set up camp while <<if $Sexuality == 1>>he<<else>>she<</if>> got dumped a few feet away from my shove. <br><br> "Wuh...we're leaving. Shittt." Hands on my hips in the twilight, beaming like a [[superhero in a one-piece|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> <br><br> Stumbling backwards, I knew I was not adequately prepared for a scrap. I scrambled away with their laughter chasing me off and called the cops. They handled the drunkards, doing what [[I couldn't|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> or the <<link"cops would">><<replace "#beach">> <<set $Confident -->>cops would. <br><br> A couch and pizza seemed more enticing than stopping probably my fellow schoolmates or maybe some college kids from trying to have some fun. <br><br> Leave that to Fat Fred. <br><br> He'd handle it on his own time. <br><br> I don't own this [[damn beach|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. And with snails on a hot sidewalk being faster than the patrol...I'd probably end up getting chewed out, but might have a <<link "good time">><<replace "#beach">> <<set $Excitable ++>>fun night. <br><br> As I approached, I noticed that the party goers were more my age. Oooh, this could be a nice evening then... <br><br> "Hey Everybody! I hate to be bearer of bad news but this //public// beach closes at night. No partying allowed. Sorry..." <br><br> A lit young <<if $Sexuality == 1>>man<<else>>girl<</if>> spoke to me, "Awww, but we aren't harming nothing. Any chance you can let us go, hip, hotty lifeguard?" <br><br> I scratched my head for effect, "It //is// against city ordinance...but...if you share some of those brews and let me hang? Then I won't call it in." <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> An eyebrow raised from the intoxicated <<if $Sexuality == 1>>man<<else>>girl<</if>>, "Sure...but how about boobs for brews?" <<if $Sexuality == 1>>He<<else>>She<</if>> looked to group. They all nodded. <br><br> This wouldn't be the first time the girls helped me out. I played coy, "I don't know..." twirling my hair, "Oh, why not," I lifted the shoulder straps, releasing my <<print $Tits>>-sized tan-lined boobs to the crowd as they basked in the glow of tits and orange flames. <br><br> "Now hand me a brew!" We partied to the wee hours, straps swaying behind as I moved. Eventually, I stumbled back to the lifeguard hut and crashed, laughing when I woke up and saw the state of my suit. <br><br> <<else>> The intoxicated <<if $Sexuality == 1>>man<<else>>girl<</if>> got a little frisky, "Sure...but how about boobs for brews then?" <<if $Sexuality == 1>>He<<else>>She<</if>> looked to their friends for support. <br><br> I didn't even consider. "I am looking the other way on this little fiesta, be thankful for that. Give me a beer or get off the beach." My hand suddenly had a beer in it. We partied [[until I woke up|CC019 - HSVign3]] in the lifeguard shack. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> before hand. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'club'>> We weaved our way through town, exhaustion starting to set in, buzz strong, <<if $makeit == 1>>heart pounding from the coke,<</if>> as we arrived in Williamsburg at SILO. <br><br> Still giggling as we stumbled towards the door, Ava flashing a special card she had been given for the night, and the bouncer ushered us into the converted hangar. <br><br> Techno throbbed in the smoky air. Laser lightshows danced across the haze. Projectors swam with images clearly designed for people on drugs. There were ''so'' many people here. <br><br> We had made it through half our list, but I could tell we were all reaching our limit, but we still had to close out the night strong. <<if $attempt == true>>And I was super. SUPER. fucking horny.<</if>> <br><br> <span id="club"> Solidarity would <<link "keep us strong">><<replace "#club">> ..."You raise me uuuupppp!" How someone had turned Groban into EDM was pretty incredible. We screamed along at the top of our lungs. <br><br> Unlike Tao, SILO was mostly a solo-style event. People came to roll, not necessarily get some ass. <br><br> Our hair sticking to our face or flicking sweat into the crowd, we bounced and rocked, hands on each others arms in a little circle. <br><br> When we sensed someone faltering, someone started a cry: "Legendary!" or screaming their name, or just "Woooo!". Yeah, we were woo girls, but we made it through this part of the evening, sobering up to [[close out strong|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 0]]. <</replace>><</link>>. Weakest link and whatnot, right? <br> <<if $attempt == true>> I needed to find some <<link "relief">><<replace "#club">> arr. ee. ell. eye. ee. effffff me, //now//. <br><br> Tao hadn't been the only place that had spun my hormones into a tizzy, but from site one, I was a wet one. <br><br> SILO wasn't a meat market the way that some of the other clubs were, <<if $gender !== ("male")>>which just meant I'd have to rely on the other sex<<else>>but guys were guys no matter where we were<</if>>. I leaned in to tell Della I needed to go to the bathroom and moved through the crowd on my hunt. I sensed the group was breaking out into their own little adventures and I wondered if everyone would make it to the final 'round'. <br><br> I would, though, I just needed to clear my head with...oh, //hello//. I grinned at an Adonis of a man and only slightly stumbled as I changed trajectory, probably salivating. <br><br> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> He grinned right back and motioned me over. "What's your name?" As he stepped backward, his presence and size moving people out of his way. <br><br> "<<print $Name>>" <br><br> "That's cute. It's loud in here, though. Wanna get outta here?" He was grinning broadly, cock-sure and testing the waters. He could smell my need...maybe literally. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> <<set $Easy ++>> Without a word, I fell in tow and slid into the Uber with him. He nudged me over and we gave the driver a show as we went back to [[his place|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 3]]. <<else>> "Well it's wet in //here//..." I countered, guiding his hand between my legs. He clutched at the sensation and tried to pull me with his fingers towards the door, but the pull hit my g-spot perfectly and that was all I needed. <br><br> I convulsed slightly as he got me stutter-stepping with him towards the door. Thankfully, my peak was over before he could abscond with me. Nudging his hand free from me with a contented sigh he looked disappointed but clearly proud, thinking he had some god-like skill. <br><br> Libido quenched, I left Adonis behind, pushing through the Molly-mass and tried to find my girls. Slowly, I reassembled the crew and we tried to make the best of it and sobered up to [[close out strong|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 0]] <</if>> <<else>> He seemed struck and a little unsure of what to do when I was suddenly saying hi, hand on his forearm. He looked down at me and nodded, considering. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> I leaned forward, cleavage on display, <<if $Tits == "small">>what little I had to offer, <</if>>and brushed my touch up his arm, and then back down, "<<print $Name>>...nice shoes." <br><br> I don't know why //that// line came to mind, but I could tell I was losing him and it was the first thing that popped in there. <br><br> He understood and shrugged, "Come on." Leading me out of SILO unceremoniously. <br><br> <span id="innerClub"> Oh. I guess this would end my <<link "Legendary Tour?">><<replace "#innerClub">> <<set $Easy -->>No thanks. Didn't need it //that// bad. <br><br> Libido killed dead, I let him leave SILO before he noticed I wasn't behind him, pushing through the Molly-mass and tried to find my girls. Slowly, I reassembled the crew and we tried to make the best of it and sobered up to [[close out strong|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 0]] <</replace>><</link>>...but I <<link "needed">><<replace "#innerClub">> <<set $Easy ++>>...but I needed a hot guy on me, like yesterday. <br><br> Without a word, I fell in tow and slid into the Uber with him. He nudged me over and we gave the driver a show as we went back to [[his place|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 3]]. <</replace>><</link>> </span> <<else>> His forearm left my fingertips and he leaned slightly away from me. He shook his head, frowning and pointing to his ear, mouthing, "Can't hear you..." and moments later disappeared into the crowd. <br><br> <<set $Confident -->>Wow. Confidence killer. Libido killer for sure. Tears welled up in my eyes and I pushed through the Molly-mass and tried to find my girls. Slowly, I reassembled the crew and we tried to make the best of it and sobered up to [[close out strong|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 0]] <</if>> <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>.<br> <</if>> Power on with the <<link "power of alcohol">><<replace "#club">> <<set $discipline -->>path to the barrrr! I wasn't the only one fragmenting our little wolfette pack, and I wondered if we'd all make it to the final 'round'. <br><br> SILO wasn't a meat market the way Tao was, which just meant I had to be a little bit more available to get some drinks. But the drinks came and my buzz kept me above the rising tide. I squealed "Woo!" and danced by the bar, mostly trying to ignore the pawing mitts of the men who were [[helping me imbibe|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 2]]. <</replace>><</link>>!<br> Clearly drugs were to be had. <<link "Keeping me high">><<replace "#club">> <<set $Risky ++>>Drugs. Drugs...druuuugs. Weed would be an easy get, but I didn't want ''down'', I wanted __lifffft__. I could probably source some powder, but not as easily as other clubs on our list. M.D.M.Aaaay! There we go. Baggy changing hands. <br><br> <<if $wealth gt 3>> I fished some cash from my hiding spot and palmed it to the hipster-looking MF. Playing it cool, he played it cooler. This was a Friday night for him. It was a Friday night for me too, but...nevermind. I opened the bag and popped one in my mouth. <br><br> It dissolved on my tongue and soon I was bouncing along with the rest of the crowd, arms up, head swinging side to side. <br><br> I have no concept of how long I was in my own little world, but Della, good 'triple-dee' Della, designated driver Della...she couldn't drive, but, oh! We're in another uuuuber. I played with her hair, breathing heavily as the girls talked about something or other. <br><br> This was a [[fun night|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 1]]. <<else>> <<if $Easy gt 1>> No cash on me and drugs weren't the same thing as drinks, ya couldn't just stand by a dealer until someone tried using that as a pathway to pussy. <br><br> <<if $makeit == 1>> Tried and true methods worked for a reason. I casually walked up to him and leaned close, letting the curve and softness of my chest be the first subtle clue, "Pop ya for a pill?" Less subtle. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>He looked me over and nodded with a wry grin<<elseif $Attractiveness gt 5>>He looked shocked that someone that looked like //me// was making the offer<</if>>. He unzipped. Far less subtle, but clearly he thought that no one would notice, or no one would care. <br><br> The converted hangar truly didn't have more private spots and he didn't want to give up his posting. My knees felt the cold and rough concrete as I began to work. He freed my tits as an extra bonus for him and anyone around. <br><br> The dissolving pill didn't cut the taste, but it did have be bouncing along with the rest of the crowd, arms up, head swinging side to side. <br><br> I have no concept of how long I was in my own little world, but Della, good 'triple-dee' Della, designated driver Della...she couldn't drive, but, oh! We're in another uuuber. She was urging my dress up over my chest, "Thanks, Del." I played with her hair, breathing heavily as the girls talked about something or other. <br><br> This was a [[fun night|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 1]] <<else>> I wasn't smooth about this, letting the curve and softness of my chest be the first subtle clue, "Pop ya for a pill?" Yeah, not subtle. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>He looked me over and nodded with a wry grin<<elseif $Attractiveness gt 5>>He looked shocked that someone that looked like //me// was making the offer<</if>>. He unzipped. Far less subtle, but clearly he thought that no one would notice, or no one would care. <br><br> The converted hangar truly didn't have more private spots and he didn't want to give up his posting. My knees felt the cold and rough concrete as I began to work. He freed my tits as an extra bonus for him and anyone around. <br><br> The dissolving pill didn't cut the taste, but it did have be bouncing along with the rest of the crowd, arms up, head swinging side to side. <br><br> I have no concept of how long I was in my own little world, but Della, good 'triple-dee' Della, designated driver Della...she couldn't drive, but, oh! We're in another uuuber. She was urging my dress up over my chest, "Thanks, Del." I played with her hair, breathing heavily as the girls talked about something or other. <br><br> This was a [[fun night|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 1]] <</if>> <<else>> Fuck. Guess I wasn't getting any if I wasn't giving any. I pushed through the mass that //was// on Molly and tried to find my girls. Slowly, I reassembled the crew and we tried to make the best of it and sobered up to [[close out strong|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit = 0]] <</if>> <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> would keep me up. </span> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'dance'>> When I had left dance behind, I hadn't been confronted with more than the beginnings of the changes in my body. Now, they were impossible to ignore. The girls assembled in the changing room before class, like me transitioning from school to dance attire. <<if $Pubes == "bald">> <br><br>I felt right at home, seeing the hardwood on almost everyone's downstairs, aligned with the immaculate studio's floors. <<else>> <br><br> <span id = "dancehair"> Shock isn't the right word for it. The school locker room showed many girls went for a clean, tidy or bare approach. But dancers, clearly it was a cultural thing. I didn't realize the uniformity was so...complete. <<if $Pubes == "bush">> <<set $Pubes == "bikini line">><br><br>At the very least, the leotards wouldn't allow me my freestyle hair, so I cleaned myself up.<<else>> <br><br>I had to decide: <<link "assimilate">><<replace "#dancehair">><<set $Pubes = "bald">><</replace>><</link>> or <<link "not">><<replace "#dancehair">><</replace>><</link>>. <</if>> </span> <</if>> <br><br> <<if $makeit == 1>> <<run $dancestyles.push("Ballet2")>> I was like a fish to water, hips in, elbows up, stomach engaged. But the others, __damn__ they had been training all this time. I was that gawky girl in the corner that they were probably laughing at in between lessons. <br><br> So, I pushed myself. I drilled at home in front of the full-length mirror. My toes ached. My calves would randomly spasm in the middle of class. <br><br> But I was going to [[make up|CC019 - HSVign3]] for lost time. <<elseif $makeit == 2>> <<run $dancestyles.push("HipHop1")>> Shit, this was ''fun''. Granted it wasn't the first time I had tried to learn a combination from a music video, but now I actually looked good doing it. <br><br> Popping my pussy, shaking my ass, and even a session on Krumping. This was so much different from the staid, restrained and 'classical' aesthetics of ballet. <<if $Sexuality == 1>>And there were guys to dance with! Like, really dance with.<</if>> <br><br> Time to focus. Different was good, but different also meant my body hadn't developed the muscle memory [[yet|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<elseif $makeit == 3>> <<run $dancestyles.push("Ballroom1")>> It wasn't as stodgy as I expected it to be. Sure, the first bit learning a boxstep was tedious and eye-roll inducing, but then we got into Salsa and some Swing -- I never expected to be learning the Lindy! This was so much different from the staid, restrained and 'classical' aesthetics of ballet. <<if $Sexuality == 1>>And there were guys to dance with! Not how I typically would, but it was fun and exhilarating.<</if>> <br><br> Time to focus. Different was good, but different also meant my body hadn't gotten the timing and movements into muscle memory [[yet|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> <<run $dancestyles.push("Contemporary1")>> This was ''difficult''. Everything was so exact and so different from Ballet. Not because of the rhythm or approach, but because there was such versatility to what was asked of you. And there was personal nuance to every movement. Some of my nuance seemed expected, the rest was 'not doing it right.' <<if $Sexuality ==1>> But there were ''guys'' to dance with...and while it still was all 'implied', there were definitely undertones that you couldn't miss between yourself and them when you were moving together.<</if>> <br><br> Time to focus. Different was good, but different also meant my body hadn't gotten the timing and movements into muscle memory [[yet|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'vandal'>> Raymond had a bright red Ford F-150. It was primarily used to haul on his dad's farm, but dusty or not, it was our best friend. It made the quaintness of our town bearable as the monster engine revved and sent us all rumbling down the open roads. It served as entertainment, transportation, housing, and getaway vehicle all in one. <br><br> I was in the flatbed, bumping along one of the backroads, hands clawed into the plastic so I wouldn't go flying to my death, when Raymond called out through the window to me, "Shitty what Ava did today." <br><br> "Uh, yup! Surprising absolutely no one," Allison, beside me bandwagoning. <br><br> "Wanna get back at her?" I couldn't see Ray's eyes, but I could see the hint of a wry grin pulling back his cheek. "I'll take that look and quiet as a yes." <br><br> Allie squealed and smacked at my thighs, "Gunna git that bitch!" <br><br> <div id= "stop"> <<if $Confident lt 0>> My stomach was in my throat. <<link "Should I stop him?">><<replace "#stop">> I clambered up to the window at the back of the cab as the treads tried to get purchase at the loose, dry soil, "Ray, her Dad owns half the //town//..." <br><br> "What? Can't hear you?" His grin was demonic. I reached in through the window and tugged at his wifebeater, "Rayyy..." <br><br> He sighed, rolling his eyes as he let the truck naturally come to a stop, "Okay, then, <<print $Name>>...what ''should'' we get up to?" <br><br> <div id = "else"> <<if $Risky gt 0 && $Excitable gt 0>> I caught him eyeing down my shirt. "Ya ever hear of <<link "Lady Godiva?">><<replace "#else">> <<set $wiles ++>> I spent the next couple minutes telling Raymond the story, and then only another minute explaining what I had in mind. The moment he understood it meant me, naked, he was on-board. <br><br> The car rumbled its way towards the pavement that led to Main Street and I was figuring out how to stay standing in the back of the vehicle. <br><br> Allie motioned with one hand, other one at the ready with her phone to record, "Alrighty, Lady, git nekkid." The buildings at the edge of the actual town were coming into focus. <br><br> I pulled my clothes <<link "off">><<undress>><</link>> as best I could, alternating hands for bracing on the lips of the flatbed. I tossed the clothes at Allie as she recorded in a vain attempt to get her to stop or cover the lenses. <br><br> She squealed out and laughed as I bounced and jiggled, trying to stay upright and naked as the day I was born. <br><br> <<if $coordination gt 1 || $athletics gt 3>> My inner ear won out and despite the Ford being completely not intended for this function, I stayed up, waving and laughing at the people who we passed. <br><br> I smacked at the window and yelled at Raymond the couple of times he purposefully slowed down. And then, when he heard the peal of sirens, he knew our fun time was over. Allie pulled me down and Raymond [[sped off|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> Shiitttt. The momentum of the vehicle had me tumbling, Allie grasped for my hand and missed. I fell out the back unceremoniously and dropped square on my ass. I watched Raymond fishtailing away as the Sheriff pulled up in front of me. <br><br> Thankfully, he threw his jacket over me which offered me a modicum of cover as I sat in the jail, awaiting someone to pick me up. <br><br> The deputy and the drunks enjoyed seeing essentially all of me for the next couple hours. They played it off but I knew they didn't mind. And fuck, [[jail is cold|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>" <br> <</if>> <br><br> " <<link "Donuts in Erikson's fields?">><<replace "#else">> <<set $discipline ++>>"Like last week?" He sighed and peeled off, bee-lining towards the farm that hadn't had time to recover from last week's antics. <br><br> I looked over at Allie, disassociating and [[clearly disappointed|CC019 - HSVign2]]. <</replace>><</link>> </div> <</replace>><</link>> <</if>> <br> I <<link "matched his grin">><<replace "#stop">> <<set $Risky ++>> He laughed, smacking his meaty hands against the steering wheel as he took a hard turn and I took a hard fall in the back. <br><br> <div id = "ava"> Allie helped me reposition, our backs to the cab. I outlined my thoughts, "Could do a <<link "drive-by">><<replace "#ava">> We took a slight detour over to the Farm Stores drive-through to grab a couple dozen eggs. We received firm glares from Chester, who manned the register in the afternoons, but we just smiled it off and hoped he wouldn't be dialing the Sheriff when we rolled out. <br><br> The sound either drowned out the sirens, or we were good to go, so Raymond pulled out towards the edge of town where Ava's dad had deigned build his monument to wealth. <br><br> Having a gate is a double-edged sword, and thankfully hid the highly visible truck. Each of us had a carton under our arms, humming that Bridge on the River Kwai song as we rounded the corner towards Ava's room. <br><br> A handful of pebbles scooped into my hand, I began to ping at her window. After a couple, I saw a shadow moving inside, curious about the noise. <br><br> "Git'er!" Allison was about to toss, and I grabbed her wrist, motioning for her to wait a tic. She nodded, surprised, but then we watched Ava push her window ajar, then further to look outside. <br><br> "Roger?" Ava thought it was romance come knocking. Nope. Eggs flew. We mostly caught the sill and the stonework of the facade, but one -- we debated whose it was -- caught her square in the face before she could hide away. <br><br> We heard her yelp and high-pitched wail. We hooted happily and high-tailed it out of there. [[Call it even|CC019 - HSVign3][$deception ++]], Ava. <</replace>><</link>>." <br><br> She nodded and shrugged, "'course." <br><br> "Orrrr...she does have that <<link "new Benz">><<replace "#ava">> Allie hooted and smacked my thigh excitedly. I couldn't help but grin ear to ear as Raymond took the detour towards the Farm Stores. Her shining new car had been an emblem of the difference, the superiority, between her and us. Her and everyone. <br><br> We bought a couple dozen eggs while Chester, register guy in the afternoons for the drive-through, gave us all firm, disappointed looks. I crossed my fingers that he wouldn't alert the Sheriff and listened intently as we headed towards the outskirts of town. <br><br> No sirens. Good. And there it was: her dad's monument to wealth. Raymond settled the massive truck in the drive up against the gate. We were in full view of the cameras, but her car was within range. <br><br> We popped open our cartons and began flinging. It was less for accuracy and more for volume, hearing the crackle of a voice at the buzzer -- we didn't have much time. The shells splintered on the newly buffed chassis, oozing yellow and white down the windows and wheels. <br><br> And then the guards came. I heard Raymond curse, accidentally dumping eggs in the seat beside him as he got the truck into gear and pulled out. <br><br> <<if $coordination gt 1 || $athletics gt 3>> My inner ear won out and despite the Ford being completely not intended for this function, I stayed up, waving and laughing at the guards behind us. <br><br> Ava would be [[needing a car wash|CC019 - HSVign3][$Excitable ++]], post-haste. <<else>> Shiitttt. The momentum of the vehicle had me tumbling, Allie grasped for my hand and missed. I fell out the back unceremoniously and heard something crack. Somehow, I managed to evade capture. <br><br> Ava had suffered a hit to her pride. I had a literal sling and cast for the next few months. You win some, [[you lose some|CC019 - HSVign3][$Excitable ++]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>." </div> <</replace>><</link>>. I ''loved'' the idea. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'helper'>> Mr. Eriksson was the most elderly person in the neighborhood and <<print $FName>> had taken it upon herself -- or me, that is -- to bring him his portion of the coop produce after school. <br><br> I swung by the community center, smiling and waving as the crunchy-granola Rudy, leaned forward in our weekly joke, "//Mister// Eriksson, I presume." <br><br> "That's me!" He slid a box across the table and I went through the produce, picking out what seemed to be most fresh. And then, leg two was bringing them to the old codger. <br><br> Box under arm, I knocked on his door. Knocked again. Oh shit. Visions of him collapsed on the ground flashed in front of my eyes as I tried the knob and it gave. He was going to be dead. Deceased old man. <br><br> "Mr. Eriksson?" I barely squeaked out as I stepped inside, taking solace in the lack of smell of death. <br><br> "Hurry! Hurry!" sprinting, figuring a broken hip, wondering what you did for a heart attack, any medical knowledge flooding my brain as I let the veggies tumble. <br><br> I stopped short. He. Was. Standing. Staring at a sink. Sure it was overflowing, but it was hardly an emergency. "Mr. Eriksson?" <br><br> "Oh, good gracious, you...wouldn't happen to be able to fix this, would you, Ms. <<print $Surname>>?" <br><br> A grimace, but thinking of the veggies all over his floor, I shrugged, "Sure?" And I walked over to the rising water levels. I had arrived right on time, it wasn't flooding the kitchen, but would be soon. I chewed at my lip, not exactly sure what to do. <br><br> <<if $Stable lt 0>> Fuck, fuck, fuck! I shoved my hand under the water, searching. It was full of dishes, and the weight of water was making it hard to move anything around. My hand dug, surging water splashing up onto my shirt. <br><br> I leaned in, straining to make work of the problem. What was the problem? Gross, the water was so gross. What was I touching? The water was overflowing, right down my legs. <br><br> "Oh, dear." Yes, Mr. E, to say the least. I continued to struggle, getting grimy, waterlogged and soaked. While I worked, he made the smart move to call a plumber. <br><br> When the plumber arrived, he was unhappy with the flood, but he looked quite pleased to see me. <<if $Braless == true>>He saw my tits<<else>>He saw my bra<</if>> clear as day even though they were covered, free wet T-shirt for the guy. <br><br> Mr. E left the coordination to me, I shifted and moved around the moat of the kitchen, every inch of my clothes soaked through, he definitely caught snatches of <<if $Undies == "Commando">> my full on snatch. He looked as I instructed him, but I was so annoyed and over it, I just wanted to get the instructions out and not worry about anything else. Look at my pussy dude, [[there's your tip|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> panty-shot. I just wanted to get the instructions out and not worry about anything else. <br><br> Finishing, I went to get up and he grabbed my wrist, pulling me down and spent the next fifteen minute giving me some pointers as to what to look for in the future. Sure, I learned some stuff but he just wanted to eye me longer. Look at my pussy dude, [[there's your tip|CC019 - HSVign3][$investigation ++]]. <</if>> <<else>> Don't freak out. First problem: water flow. I turned off the faucet. The water stopped. Wow. Complete incompetence, Mr. E. Now, what caused it to get like this?<br><br> <<if $perception gt 0>> Probably a clogged drain. I slid my hand into the water, searching. It was full of dishes, and the weight of the water was making it hard to move anything around. My hand dug, <br><br> I leaned in, straining to make work of the problem. Gross, the water was so gross. What was I touching? <br><br> Eureka. Gross as it was, I found the 'clog'. He had left the stopper in. Using one hand to prevent this grossness from re-clogging the drain, I pulled and the water drained. <br><br> He cheered me on. I shook my head and used his bathroom towels to clean off. <br><br> Then, I proceeded to receive a dressing down for the vegetables and dirt in his foyer. I helped him out, biting my tongue, and [[headed home|CC019 - HSVign3][$learning ++]]. <<else>> Probably something with the pipes, right? I had always left this kinda thing to <<print $DName>>. I squatted down, opening the under-sink cabinet and leaned into the dark. Most of those cleaners and things probably hadn't been touched since the 90s. "You got a wrench?" <br><br> He nodded and wandered off, coming back with what I guess was a good enough wrench. <<if $athletics gt 2>> Putting my weight into it, I loosed the pipe. And got fucking ''drenched''. Water <<shake 10s>>spewed<</shake>> free into me and inundating me with a deluge that put everything before to shame. Mr. E let out a yell that put mine to shame and rushed off to call a plumber. <br><br> When the plumber arrived, he was unhappy with the flood, but he looked quite pleased to see me. <<if $Braless == true>>He saw my tits<<else>>He saw my bra<</if>> clear as day even though they were covered, free wet T-shirt for the guy. <br><br> Mr. E left the coordination to me, I shifted and moved around the moat of the kitchen, every inch of my clothes soaked through, he definitely caught snatches of <<if $Undies == "Commando">> my full on snatch. He looked as I instructed him, but I was so annoyed and over it, I just wanted to get the instructions out and not worry about anything else. Look at my pussy dude, there's your tip. <<else>> panty-shot. I just wanted to get the instructions out and not worry about anything else. <br><br> Finishing, I went to get up and he grabbed my wrist, pulling me down and spent the next fifteen minute giving me some pointers as to what to look for in the future. Sure, I learned some stuff but he just wanted to eye me longer. Look at my pussy dude, [[there's your tip|CC019 - HSVign3][$investigation ++]]. <</if>> <<else>> Grunting and pushing, I leaned into it but I couldn't make it budge. My muscles ached, but I shook my head, defeated. <br><br> "Sorry, Mr. E. Just can't get this." He nodded, sighed, patting me on the head. <br><br> "Thank you for trying, dear." He was content not to have the water threatening to overflow, so it was a small win. As he escorted me out, he did take some time to admonish me for the mess I left in his foyer. I bit my tongue and resolved to get him worse veggies [[next week|CC019 - HSVign3][$discipline ++]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'church'>> We had to be His voices, reaching out and finding those who had not yet come to us and to Him. So we were doing outreach in a park. Throwing a frisbee around. <br><br> The day was lovely and sunny, but we hadn't done much outreach. Hadn't met a single other person outside of our group. And the frisbee came to me. As it settled on my fingertips, I looked around. <br><br> <div id = "frisbee"> Toss it back to the cute guy who'd been <<link "flirting with me all morning">><<replace "#frisbee">> <<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $coordination ++>>With a giggle and a shy look away, I sent it back to Paul, who smiled big at receiving the return throw. <br><br> We didn't accomplish much that day besides working up a sweat and finding connection with each other. But maybe that was the outreach that was supposed to happen that afternoon. <br><br> Paul and I left the frisbee game and just went on a walk through the park. It was a [[lovely day|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. Send it 'accidentally' over to the group <<link "picnicking">><<replace "#frisbee">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Confident ++>>Oops! Must have left my fingers too late. "Sorry! Duck! Oh, please! Sorry!" I ran over. <<if $Tits !== "small">>I was bouncing over and so was my chest. It got their attention if the missile hadn't.<</if>> <br><br> "Well, hello there. Nearly took my head off." Chuckled a shirtless guy as he stood up, letting the disc spin on his middle finger. <br><br> "Yeah, sorry! Really am. Me and my friends from the youth group are just throwing it around...you, wanna throw it back?" I motioned to the group that was waving kindly. <br><br> "I throw it now, I'll brain you." <br><br> I laughed, smiling, "No. To them...you think you can make it?" He raised his eyebrow at the challenge, took two long strides and heaved. <br><br> By the end of the afternoon, we had at least introduced ourselves to the whole group of picnickers and had let them know when we met. One showed up, which was a [[massive win|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. Make eyes at a jogger and cast it <<link "on the run">><<replace "#frisbee">> <<set $wiles ++>><<set $athletics ++>>A fit guy in form-fitting workout gear from head to foot noticed my looks and smiled at me. I loosed. He sped up and caught it. <br><br> And then he kept running. Oh, jeez! I started to pelt after him. <<if $Tits !== "small">>I had not dressed for a run, so my chest was bounding more than I was. He didn't mind, clearly.<</if>> "Hey there." Despite the dewy skin, he seemed fully capable to run and talk. Impressive. <br><br> "Hey. Can I have my frisbee back?" <br><br> "Oh this? What's your name?" <br><br> "<<print $Name>>." Keeping up with him was going to be difficult. <br><br> "Hmm...don't see that on here..." <br><br> "It's ours..." And so it went, finishing off the run with him and getting chatted up before I got the frisbee back. <br><br> When I returned to the group, I was drenched, exhausted, but I had gotten his commitment to join us next week. Worth the lactic [[acid build-up|CC019 - HSVign3]]! <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'partier'>> Going to a house party -- townies, college kids, classmates' siblings -- had a more 'adult' nature to it. The drinks were better. The music was better. They were always more fun. <br><br> There was a confidence and casualness to the encounter. There was no worry of the party being 'not allowed,' just 'not legal'. So, the cops were the constant, the through-line. <div id ="constants"> And the <<link "drinking">><<replace "#constants">> <<set $Excitable ++>><<set $social ++>> <</replace>><</link>>. Oh, and the <<link "drugs">><<replace "#constants">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $discipline -->> <</replace>><</link>>. And, obviously, the <<link "sex">><<replace "#constants">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $wiles ++>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'home'>> The Boys and I didn't always hang out at <<print $Friend1>>'s -- the garage is cool and all, but it wasn't that convenient for me. So mine became home base number two, especially when things were a bit frantic on his end, or quiet on mine. <br><br> "Alright, who's turn was it today...?" Ethan turned, performative as always. To...me. <br><br> "Wait. It...no..." I shook my head, returning the acting as best I could. It was. I forgot. <br><br> Andrew dropped onto the bed beside me, "Don't bullshit, <<print $Name>>. Where's the green." <br><br> <div id = "weed"> <<if $Stable gt 0>> "You know I <<link "don't smoke">><<replace "#weed">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Suggestible -->>"Oh, come //on//." Ethan threw a pillow at me. I ducked and it hit <<print $Friend1>>. <br><br> "See? Ya don't get those reflexes being a pothead." I stuck out my tongue. <br><br> "Ya also don't get to be any fun." <<print $Friend1>> smacked me in the face with the pillow. <br><br> Andrew packed a bowl and passed between them. I didn't understand the things they laughed and talked about -- it just sounded dumb. But I enjoyed their company, in [[any state|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. I'm not contributing to your delinquency." <</if>> "Ugh //fine//. I don't have it ''on'' me...lemme <<link "make a call">><<replace "#weed">> <<set $investigation ++>><<set $Suggestible ++>>They dove into a mobile game with scantily clad orcs and lots of blood while I texted, chewing at my lower lip trying to come up with new avenues for acquisition. <br><br> Eventually, I found a dealer and convinced them to do a delivery. "Kay. Smoke 'em cuz you got 'em." I tossed the bag at Andrew and let him pack a bowl for us. <br><br> It was fun spinning in a computer chair when you were blazed. The way the world just...[[spins|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>." "No one else is carrying? I'll getcha <<link "next time">><<replace "#weed">> <<set $deception ++>><<set $Confident ++>>There was an eyeroll and a sigh. Andrew shook his head and patted my thigh. Being a girl was ''great''. <br><br> A bowl was packed and I curled up against Andrew as he passed to me after lighting. And soon we were on our way, opening a window and lightly just stroking each other's fingers as we laughed and [[waxed poetic|CC019 - HSVign3]]. Mooch for life. <</replace>><</link>>. //Promise//." </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'gang'>> When a guy on Wall Street does it, or Madoff, or Holmes...they might get in trouble. ''//Might//''. If they get caught. Meanwhile the sheer amount of people affected by what they've done and how much they've taken is massive. They'll go to prison, after a lengthy trial, pay some fines that are nothing in comparison to the damages done -- and certainly don't actually restitute victims. And then when they walk down the street after getting out? Just another guy, no harm, no foul. <br><br> So we were selecting our target, Target. I was being walked through the things to watch out for, and what to do in certain situations. My heart was thumping, I was on edge, but families needed money, needed clothes, needed things and Target could afford the losses -- that they'd write off at the end of the year as breakage anyway. <br><br> Walking down the aisles as normally as possible, just me, just a <<if $Skin == "black">>black girl, please ignore,<<elseif $Skin == "golden">>white-passing chick<<else>>white chick<</if>>. I was close to making it out when I saw the blue of security starting to move in. Exactly as I was warned. <div id = "theft"> <<link "Ignore them and continue">><<replace "#theft">> <<set $Confident ++>><<set $Risky ++>><<set $performance ++>>If I act guilty, they'll think I'm guilty. They aren't actually gunning for me. Move over another aisle...keep my peripherals going... <br><br> Yeah. Outsmarted the fuckin' pigs. And got the goods. <br><br> I certainly impressed the guys when I got back with [[my haul|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>? <<link "Act casual">><<replace "#theft">> <<set $deception ++>><<set $Stable ++>>Okay, then. Just time for an exit. Over towards the registers, like I'm going to pay for these. <br><br> Peripherals on. Are they watching me? No, I think they're just checking me out. Ha. Got 'em. <br><br> "I had to duck early." I shrugged as I handed them my haul. Light, but there. <br><br> "You got out good. That's what matters." Amari patted me on the shoulder and gave it [[a squeeze|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>? <<link "Run">><<replace "#theft">> <<set $Excitable ++>><<set $perception ++>> Fuck. Outta here. Now! <br><br> I kicked it into gear, hoping a gradual increase in my pace would not arouse--suspicion. Shit. I wish I had paid more attention to the layout as I began to squeak around corners and head down aisles. I think I was headed to the -- <<shake 3s>>Flat on my ass<</shake>> after bouncing off of one of the big guys in blue. <br><br> Not even able to get a word out, my good spilling out of the bag onto the linoleum, he reached down and hefted me up by the arm, dragging me kicking and fighting down into the back. <br><br> Luckily, he took me for just a delinquent who got her kicks from shoplifting. He gave me a stern talking to and when he threatened to call <<print $DName>> and the //actual// police I squirmed. So I put out. <br><br> There was a glint in his eye like he was used to this kind of exchange and had been expecting it since the chase began. He took his time, I didn't rush him. And once he finished and the contentedness set in, he actually let me walk with a couple of the shittier items. <br><br> Amari nodded, not too surprised by what happened and thumped me on the arm impressed that I didn't flinch and just blew the security and got something out of it. <br><br> "Yer my go-to girl, <<print $Name>>. Hope ya learned something this time." I had. I got better at [[reading them|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>? </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'volunteer'>> It wasn't glorious, but it was probably the most impactful of my volunteering choices -- at least in the large timescale of the health of the planet. Cleaning up beaches and beside the highway did a lot more for us and the environment than simply making it look nicer. <br><br> Sweaty, dirty and leg-tired, I'd have a crick in my neck from looking down for hours. We'd do little paths and sections at a time to make sure we grabbed everything. It was very methodical. <br><br> And sometimes, we'd be sent out with some convicts from a minimum security prison. So there was a little time for doing guidance and outreach. A little friendliness, a little humanity go a long way. <br><br> The guards were far less pleased with it, preferring to feel powerful and treat their charges like mongrels. <br><br> <div id ="convicts"> So, I <<link "stopped">><<replace "#convicts">> <<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $discipline ++>>I was not going to fight the Man. They could hurt me, or the convicts simply because they could. <br><br> With looks of 'sorry' to my guys in orange, I shied away and went back to the work at hand. I'd get a few words and hellos from time to time, but the guards made a point to keep separation between 'in' and 'out.' <br><br> It pained me, but we were probably more efficient and no one got hurt. Even if I didn't buck [[the system|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <<link "flirted">><<replace "#convicts">> <<set $deception ++>><<set $Excitable ++>>A little roll of my eyes, sliding up to the guard and maybe holding their hand for a bit. I tried to get them to make them think it was equal opportunity. I just wanted to chat. <br><br> Giving them every excuse and a little bit of love, they softened. Though there were far more aggressive than their convict counterparts when it came to me. They tried to take me home and were very hard to manage. <br><br> No wasn't a word they wanted to hear, and certainly when they knew they had leverage in the form of my care for their charges. <br><br> So, a couple of times I let them buy me a meal, or went to a movie. But it kept my guys in orange safe, unharmed and I still got to hang out with [[them|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>> with them as a distraction, let my good will buy some <<link "protection">><<replace "#convicts">> <<set $wiles ++>><<set $Risky ++>>Though they were in chains, a mere grunt, or look and the guards were at least a little startled. <br><br> And they backed off, and I kept my buddies in orange. They really weren't bad people. And though I knew they'd have to pay for defending me in one way or another, I think they appreciated the attention and time with a pretty girl on the outside. <br><br> A couple tried -- kindly and considerately -- to hook up with me when they 'got out.' I let them wonder and hope. I wouldn't kill [[a dream|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'sporty'>> Too cold to be outside for most sports, we went indoors for track and field. It was weird not to have grass underfoot and to hear yourself echoing off the walls, but better that than hypothermia. <br><br> It wasn't the most popular thing to be doing when Basketball had taken over the gym courts, but <<if $Sexuality !== 0>>it was a coed sport, so watching the boys run and throw was a massive bonus<<else>>the more normal girls who weren't in stupid cheer outfits or drooling over the ballers were better to hang and compete with.<</if>> <br><br> My competition of choice was <div id ="track"> <<link "long-distance running">><<replace "#track">> <<set $athletics ++>><<set $Sophisticated -->>Two miles was all about pacing yourself, small increments and adjustments, but it was highly meditative. And having that distance allowed you to regulate yourself over the long term. Could put a sprint on the end, could pull it back if you pushed too hard early. <br><br> I loved listening to my breath, to the clarity that came after the first lap, to seeing the distance between me and the girl ahead closing slowly -- and she had no idea until I passed. <br><br> Lap four. Halfway done and holding a good lead on most of the girls, just a couple ahead of me. I was ahead of pace and it felt ''good''. <br><br> <<if $Stable + $athletics + $discipline - $Sophisticated - $Excitable gte 7>> A girl passed me...she was going too fast. I'd let her wear herself out, I still had gas in the tank. <br><br> We headed into the final lap and I heard Coach Liam clapping me on, "You got this, <<print $Name>>!" And the passer started to lag. I kicked it into high gear, sprinting out the last eighth of the distance. Passing. Passing. And finished! <br><br> Coach was at the finish line, lifting me up off the ground, arms tight around my rocking ribcage. I couldn't even laugh in surprise. I had placed and we'd see where I'd end up for [[Districts|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> I was making a break for it. I led the pack, pushing, not going to let them catch up. I crossed into the final lap with a broad grin on my face, hearing Coach Liam cheering me on, "Keep it up, <<print $Name>>!" <br><br> As I rounded the final curve, I felt the lactic acid in my legs, I had been going too fast for too long. The other girls began to pass me. Ended up behind where we had expected me to be. "My bad, Coach." I panted out as I met up with him afterward. <br><br> He nodded and gave me a squeeze on my sweaty shoulder, "We'll [[keep working|CC019 - HSVign3]]." <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, <<link " the hurdles">><<replace "#track">> <<set $coordination ++>><<set $Risky ++>>Short, quick, exciting. The gun went off and so did we -- it was speed, it was flexibility, it was rhythm. There was something musical to the right timing. <br><br> There was something far less magical when your cleat caught the bar of a hurdle, just a second too late or not pulling up high enough. And then you were tumbling, off-stride and either eating dirt or having to really press to keep in the race. <br><br> Coach Liam looked at his watch, lifted the starting pistol and pulled. My feet sprung from the starting blocks and my calves got in gear. <<if $Tits !== "small">>It was sprints like these that made me thankful for my lack of breast -- might even give me an edge.<<else>>Having a chest like mine added a dynamic of motion that was uncomfortable and probably held me back from a PB.<</if>> <br><br> But I couldn't concentrate on that, just the pace and my path. <<if $coordination + $athletics + $Stable + $perception gte 8>> Over. Over. Over. //Yes// That one caught a little at my hamstring, but push on. Nope, not going to clip these. And...across the finish line. Arms above my head, ribcage rapidly lifting and falling, I smiled to Liam who nodded as he checked his watch. We were on [[our way|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<else>> Dammit. Hit another one. I was off my cadence and I was not going to place. I could feel Liam shaking his head before I even crossed the finish line. It wasn't atypical, but wasn't the improvement we were [[looking for|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, <<link " the high jump">><<replace "#track">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Confident ++>>It was pretty stop and start, but when you were setting the bar slightly higher, looking at the short distance to the pad, there was a jolt of adrenaline like no other. There was an introspection, checking in with every single muscle in your body that had to work in perfect unison to send yourself flying -- the slightest nudge would be a failure. And you went //backwards//, head ''first''. Whoever came up with this was a sadist. <br><br> Assistant Coach Justin was relegated to our little neck of the woods, but he was as much a devotee to the sport as I was. We had a little smirk to each other each time I got into position, like we understood things others didn't. <br><br> Whistle. I was sprinting. Leaping. Twisting... <<if $coordination + $discipline + $athletics + $Stable gte 8>> and over the bar, clean. My body thudded and bounced on the mat, looking up at the rafters as I held back from looking at the bar. It was still there. <br><br> Justin came over, smacking hard at my thighs and pulling me off the mat by them, smiling broadly, "Nice job! <<print $Name>>. Higher?" I nodded, taking his hands. "[[Higher|CC019 - HSVign3]]." <<else>> and over the bar, clean? My body thudded and bounced on the mat, looking up at the rafters as I held back from looking at the bar. Damn. <br><br> Justin came over, giving me a little tug by my ankles, helping me off the mat. "Again?" I knew it was probably past my limit, but I nodded, "[[Again|CC019 - HSVign3]]." <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> /*<<if $hsv == 'tailgate'>> <</if>>*/ <<if $hsv == 'outdoors'>> When I was over with <<print $FName>> or over at <<print $Friend1>>'s, yeah it was an escape, but there were still parents. There were elements I couldn't control: who would be joining us, what we'd be doing. But taking a tent and heading off into nature? <br><br> Talk about freedom and escape! <br><br> I slept when I wanted and however long that needed to be, I did what I wanted, I went where I wanted, hung out with who I wanted. I left when I wanted. I arrived when I wanted. And goddamn, when you're fighting at home, or pissed at a 'friend,' just //departing// has an unparalleled power to it. <br><br> But nature's a fickle bitch. You can't control her. <br><br> <div id ="nature"> Or the <<link "wildlife">><<replace "#nature">> <<set $perception ++>><<set $Stable ++>> <</replace>><</link>>, Or other <<link "campers">><<replace "#nature">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Sophisticated -->> <</replace>><</link>>, Or the <<link "rules">><<replace "#nature">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Suggestible ++>> <</replace>><</link>> that still exist. As much as you don't want them to. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'piano'>> PLAYING FOCUS <div id =""><<link "">><<replace "#">><</replace>><</link>> <<link "">><<replace "#">><</replace>><</link>> <<link "">><<replace "#">><</replace>><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'read'>> Extra school didn't simply mean losing my nights, it often meant I spent time on the weekends at the local library, or the community library. Just broke out a laptop, threw on some headphones and occasionally walked the stacks. <br><br> Even with the headphones, though, guys didn't take the hint. <br><br> A hand waved in front of my face, I jerked back, in the midst of trying to crunch some statistics. I popped an earbud out reflexively, "Uh, y-yeah?" looking up at -- oh, it was Oliver from my stats class. <br><br> "Oh, sorry, <<print $Name>>, h-how's it going?" An unsure motion towards the open textbook. Well, at least it wasn't being disturbed just because, ya know, I was a girl and that's what guys did. <br><br> "Eh, fine. This binomial stuff kinda escapes me." He nodded, dropping into the seat across from me. Just an average dude, but he gave a Reddit mod vibe. <br><br> "//Totally//. __Confusing__ stuff." He nodded, his eyes not on the textbook, even though I was clothed for the brutal AC. <br><br> <div id = "Oliver"> I could have some <<link "fun with him">><<replace "#Oliver">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $Stable -->>Pushing my work aside, "Yeah, too confusing for me. Whatcha doin here?" I leaned forward, letting the edge of the table and my forearms press up on my breasts. <br><br> He noticed. I could see his wheels turning as he tried to process how much of this was on purpose versus accidental. How many standard deviations...I coughed to get him to focus, "Oh, honestly?" He tugged at his collar comically, and not as a joke, "You're here pretty much every weekend? It's really admirable." <br><br> So he had been waiting for his opening. I mulled it over as I saw him faltering, worried he'd overreached, "Well, thanks! Yeah, gotta keep the grades up." <br><br> He nodded, swallowing, thankful that the silence had been broken, "Oh, I'm sure you do fine." He smiled, grateful for my attention despite the age difference. <br><br> "SHHHHH!" both of us ducked instinctively as if a firearm had gone off. I giggled and smiled with a little shrug, cleavage jiggling. I leaned closer, half out of my chair, "Guess we're being too loud." I whispered. <br><br> He leaned forward too, letting his hand take my wrist, "Should we take our loud selves somewhere else?" <br><br> I left my bag and work exactly where they were, moving off into the stacks with him, talking in hushed tones and giggles and up to the areas that weren't used much during the week and not at all during off-times like this. <br><br> We still kept quiet, fumbling around in the dark corners of the library, skirting work. Look. Spending this much time focused on work makes any opportunity look [[like gold|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>> and take a break from the Stats, or get a <<link "free tutor session">><<replace "#Oliver">> <<set $wiles ++>><<set $learning ++>>Pushing my work aside, "Yeah, too confusing for me. Whatcha doin here?" I leaned forward, letting the edge of the table and my forearms press up on my breasts. <br><br> He noticed. I could see his wheels turning as he tried to process how much of this was on purpose versus accidental. How many standard deviations...I coughed to get him to focus, "Oh, honestly?" He tugged at his collar comically, and not as a joke, "You're here pretty much every weekend? It's really admirable." <br><br> So he had been waiting for his opening. I mulled it over as I saw him faltering, worried he'd overreached, "Well, thanks! Yeah, gotta keep the grades up." <br><br> He nodded, swallowing, thankful that the silence had been broken, "Oh, I'm sure you do fine." He smiled, grateful for my attention despite the age difference. <br><br> "SHHHHH!" both of us ducked instinctively as if a firearm had gone off. Admonished, I leaned back and pulled the textbook in front of me, "Shit. Mind just like...helping me understand all this?" <br><br> He nodded, looking around with wide eyes, sliding around to beside me at the table. We kept quiet the rest of the afternoon and I made sure he got enough of a show to keep him grinning, while I improved my understanding of the material. He really knew [[his stuff|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'job'>> <<if $makeit == 1>><<set $coordination ++>> Oh boy. Dodging traffic must have been in those terms and conditions. I had a near-miss every single time I set out on my bike. <br><br> Narrowly missing an opening door, or a car changing lanes, or just someone crossing the street and not paying attention, I was intimately familiar with the physics of me on a bicycle by the end of my first week. <br><br> I'm less sure about the protections or what I may have signed away when it came to my experience at the actual delivery. <br><br> "Uri" answered his door in...a robe would be generous. It was gaped, untied and I didn't stay long enough or inspect if his state was due to recent showering or simply comfort. I yelped, dropped his stuff on the doormat and took an about-face. <br><br> One of the weirdest encounters was when I picked up an assortment of sex toys and supplies from an adult store and when I arrived, a woman answered the door -- a sigh of relief, right? -- No. "Samantha" saw me and immediately asked if I wanted to join her and...never got the name of her partner. I politely said no and handed her the bag. <br><br> Delivery duty gave me a unique insight to what [['average' Americans were|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<elseif $makeit == 2>><<set $investigation ++>> I heard stories about what the store used to be: shirtless guys and scantily clad girl 'models' outside, inside, drawing in the eyes and shoppers. I mean, I doubt they were upset to have me on the floor, but there weren't those kinds of standards about what I wore. Hell, their catalog didn't even have the kind of thing they sold back then. <br><br> Instead, I showed up, folded clothes. Checked the changing rooms for left over articles and...folded them. Unpacked new shipments and! Folded. <br><br> It was inane. It was boring. There's only so much you can talk about with people on your shift. You'd make up stories about the people browsing the store. I even __hoped__ for people trying to get frisky in the back. <br><br> And then, wool fully over my eyes, boredom calcified into disassociation, my mind clicked on. Did...that stack look smaller than it had moments before? I clocked the person moving away from the display, getting into gear as I began to pursue. First, it was to confirm my suspicions, then it was to ensure they didn't bounce. <br><br> Out of the corner of their eye, they made me. I leapt. <<if $athletics gt 3>>And like some football champion, I took them down by the ankles, their arms outstretched as if just a few more inches, getting their ill-gotten gains past the threshold meant they got to keep it. Not in my house, buddy.<<else>>I ate dirt. More like dust, but I smacked a belly-flop on the hardwood that put any pool dive to shame. My pride and tits throbbed as I watched them disappearing out the doors, klaxons blaring, but they had made good on their escape.<</if>> <br><br> Well, I didn't choose the job for the excitement, just [[easy pay|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <<elseif $makeit == 3>><<set $social ++>> Ida's was a pretty lazy spot and didn't prove to be too difficult to manage clientele. Yawn. But people always had to complicate things. <br><br> Let me be clear: men, dining, had to complicate things. You think it'd be simple, just take their order, bring it over, bring the check, next. Nope. It was a delicate balance of being available, but not //that// kind of available, or a ''hint'' of being available so they'd tip better. And then some would try and push the envelope. <br><br> Russell, regular and local...not __quite__ drunk...took a shine to me and began to ask for my section. His eyes would light up on my approach, and probably brighter when I was walking away. What began as a simple and normal dining experience became more conversational and I felt more trapped. <br><br><div id = "serving"> I appreciated the attention (and tips) and <<link "gave him what he wanted">><<replace "#serving">><<set $wiles ++>>First, it was a compliment of my jeans, then it was of my ass. Then he started coming in at the tail end of the shift, knowing I'd be less busy and be able to sit with him. I did. <br><br> I laughed at his jokes, tolerated his hand on me, and thankfully he never pushed the limits while I was working. The offers to come home with him were there, I had his number. He was relentless. <br><br><</replace>><</link>>. I tried to <<link "tow the line">><<replace "#serving">><<set $discipline ++>>"Oh, Russ!" was a typical refrain. A laugh at his dirty jokes, a playful eye-roll and a little nudge of his hand off my ass from time to time. And when he got too friendly and comfortable, I worked with the host to ensure maybe he didn't end up in my section for the next couple seatings. <br><br> He was a nice guy, and lonely. I wasn't going to dash his dreams, but I wasn't going to make them a reality. The industry was all masques and facades, I put on mine and played my part...it was like a far less involved version of escorting, I guess. <br><br><</replace>><</link>> of acceptability without losing him. I <<link "involved Deb">><<replace "#serving">><<set $Risky -->><<set $Easy -->><<set $Suggestible -->>One time, he actually grabbed my ass. I smacked it, stormed off without a second thought and cornered Deb in the service station, "I am not dealing with this harassment." <br><br> Her Adam's apple visibly bounced, "Well...<<print $Name>>" <br><br> "No, Deb. You want me working here? I'm not a stripper." <br><br> The gears turned in her head, but I could see the thoughts -- I was her top earner, people liked me, he was __one__ customer -- she nodded and headed over to the table. He tried to play off the encounter as a story, then misunderstood, then, sheepishly, he relented. Deb waited on him from then on. <br><br><</replace>><</link>> whenever needed.</div> Ida's was far from lazy when the night closed out. Restaurateurs know how to party. There was always an after-hours situation going on, or if Deborah wasn't around, drinks disappearing from behind the bar. <br><br> It was also highly 'incestuous' with pairings that happened after the debaucherous post-shift drinks, or sometimes...during them. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 0>>I may have had a few indiscretions, but it was fun and exciting.<<else>>I avoided any entanglements, just to keep things easier when I was working.<</if>> <br><br> It was the most unexpected part of [[working at Ida's|CC019 - HSVign3]] and the biggest added benefit. <<else>><<set $social ++>><div id = "host"> Ida's was a pretty lazy spot and didn't prove to be too difficult to manage incoming clients or who's server's turn it was to be seated. Yawn. But people always had to complicate things. <br><br> There was this regular, Thom, who insisted on 'his' spot, but I knew that Lydia would absolutely throw a fit. She was up on the rotation and she was the least flexible of any of the staff. <br><br> I smiled broadly at Thom as he stopped following me to make a bee-line towards the corner table. He couldn't see me, but I was fighting the urge to scream. <<if $social gt 3>>Shuffling up beside him, I slid my arm through his, "Sir, let me get this table prepared for you -- my apologies that it wasn't ready right away." It wasn't dirty, but it hadn't fully been set. It seemed to be a good enough reason and he leaned against the edge of the booth, pulling out his phone while I had a moment to cut off Lydia. <br><br> In hushed tones, "I'll give you the next //two// tables, kay? It's Thom...you know how he is." I could tell she was fuming, her jaw working side to side as she considered the offer, "Three. He's not that good of a tipper anyway." She turned before I could counter...with two and a half? I'd make it work. <br><br> I returned, my wide smile as I gestured to the table, my other hand placing a breadbasket and olive oil on the table. He wordlessly sat. I sighed in relief, <<link "returning to the stand">><<replace "#host">> Ida's was far from lazy when the night closed out. Restaurateurs know how to party. There was always an after-hours situation going on, or if Deborah wasn't around, drinks disappearing from behind the bar. <br><br> It was also highly 'incestuous' with pairings that happened after the debaucherous post-shift drinks, or sometimes...during them. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 0>>I may have had a few indiscretions, but it was fun and exciting.<<else>>I avoided any entanglements, just to keep things easier when I was working.<</if>> <br><br> It was the most unexpected part of [[working at Ida's|CC019 - HSVign3]] and the biggest added benefit.<</replace>><</link>>. <<else>>Interposing myself between him and the table, "Sir...how about...here..." moving slightly and gesturing to the nearest table in Lydia's section. He pulled out his phone and passed me, dropping into his booth, "This table needs bread and olive oil." <br><br> With gritted teeth, back tensed, I walked away to grab the final touches of the table setting. Lydia had already corralled Deb. "She's doing it //again//, Deborah. She never seats us in the right order. It's her //job//, her //only// job." <br><br> Deborah reached out before I could pass on my way to get the bread and I was brought right into the scuffle: "<<print $Name>>--" <br><br> "I'm s-sorry, but, it's Thom, you know how he is." <br><br> Lydia stared down Deb, arms crossed, "This is your last strike. Don't make me tell you again." She released my arm with a flick of her wrist. Anger dissipated from Lydia and swelled within me. I'd have to figure out a way to <<link "make this work">><<replace "#host">> Ida's was far from lazy when the night closed out. Restaurateurs know how to party. There was always an after-hours situation going on, or if Deborah wasn't around, drinks disappearing from behind the bar. <br><br> It was also highly 'incestuous' with pairings that happened after the debaucherous post-shift drinks, or sometimes...during them. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 0>>I may have had a few indiscretions, but it was fun and exciting.<<else>>I avoided any entanglements, just to keep things easier when I was working.<</if>> <br><br> It was the most unexpected part of [[working at Ida's|CC019 - HSVign3]] and the biggest added benefit.<</replace>><</link>>, because I wasn't about to get fired.<</if>></div><</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'gym'>> <<set $gymscore = ($discipline + $athletics + $coordination + $Risky - $Stable + $Confident)>> The club was led by a Ukranian, Coach Vovk. And he pushed us hard. <br><br> There was a moment when I didn't land a round off and he came at me: "Don't you want to win?" <br><br> I snapped back, "No." The rage was both from embarrassment at being called out in front of everyone but also at myself for not hitting the mark. <br><br> The look in his eyes told me everything I needed to know. I was about to be cut. "I...I didn't mean that. I just...I'm not good enough. Clearly." <br><br> He looked down. The air was saturated with the tension and sweat. He took a step forward and pulled me close, clutching me against him, "Not with that thinking, you won't be." His thick Ukranian accent made it even more endearing. <br><br> So, I tried [[harder|CC019 - HSVign3]]. <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'cheer'>> Tuesday was the sideline. <<if $Height lt 0>>It became clear that my height made me perfect to be a flyer<<set $makeit ++>><</if>>. Wednesday was the cheer. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("charm")>>I loved seeing the beaming smiles from the bleachers each time I took my turn<<set $makeit ++>>.<</if>> Thursday was the dance. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>>There were comments about how my lines were incredible thanks to my lithe legs.<<set $makeit ++>><</if>> <br><br> It was three hours each night. It was grueling. We were quizzed on the members of the football, basketball and wrestling teams. I could only imagine how hard actually being a part of the team would be. Some girls were dropping out.<br> Once again, I considered [[dropping out|HS000 - Testing]]. <<if $Stable lt 0>>I could tell I was bristling the girls with how I reacted to direction and guidance.<<set $makeit -->><</if>> <br><br> Friday was the competition in front of the squad and Coach LeTourneau. <br><br> In my free time, I could only concentrate my efforts on <<if $coordination gt 0>>[[my tumbling|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit += 2]]<<else>>[[my tumbling|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit ++]]<</if>>, <<if $dancing gt 0>>[[the dance|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit += 2]]<<else>>[[the dance|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit ++]]<</if>>, <<if $discipline gt 0>>[[the sideline|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit += 2]]<<else>>[[the sideline|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit ++]]<</if>>, or <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>[[the cheer|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit += 2]]<<else>>[[the cheer|CC019 - HSVign3][$makeit ++]]<</if>>. <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>> <<silently>> <<undress>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">> <</silently>> <<if $hsv == 'barn'>> <<if $attemptBig == true>> <<set $barnsuccess = ($FFdrink + $FFdrugs + $FFlocation + $FFmusic + $FFpeople + $FFsurprise)>> <<if $FFpeople == 1>> <<set $social ++>> <<print $FFName>> was doing their work with a fun little clipboard and wearing a t-shirt I had screen printed with "Fire Festival" on it. I watched them weaving through the clustered group. There were definitely people there I hadn't invited, but...manageable. I kinda felt like a succubus, I could feel their anticipation and excitement and I was feeding on it. <<else>> <<print $FFName>> was doing their work with a fun little clipboard and wearing a t-shirt I had screen printed with "Fire Festival" on it. I watched them weaving through the mass of people waiting. Shit. I saw far more faces that I __didn't__ invite than I did. Popularity is great and all, but if //everyone// showed, where was the FOMO? <</if>> <<if $FFsurprise == 1>> <<set $deception ++>> The first drop had an energy of 'thanks, glad we can get on with it' -- even though there was literal alcohol waiting for them. I was on edge, watching the energy dissipating into the night as, essentially, people milled around and drank in the middle of a forest.<br><br>Then, it all changed.<br><br>It dropped. The music lifted and everyone turned, stunned to the lights kicking on alongside the creek. It ''worked''. <<else>> People made their way down towards the booze, drinking and chatting each other up. I felt the energy dissipating into the evening, trying to will the music to begin, to distract from this just being a bunch of people hanging out in the woods. <</if>> <<if $FFlocation == 1>> <<set $investigation ++>> It was like a magnet -- people surged into the flat creekbed, beginning to move and find partners. It was like a natural dance floor, and I had thanked nature in turn by doing a little cleanup. <<else>> People were trying to find where to dance, some finding purchase on the parts of the creekbed that I had cleared. The rest didn't want to risk it and dealt with being jostled by the bar, fighting for space with trees, or just being too far away from the music to really get into it. <</if>> <<if $FFmusic == 1>> <<set $performance ++>> And Hot Tub Ska Machine was //killing// it. I had seen them in a seedy bar, but giving them space like this and full license, I wished I could sign them on the spot. Even Ethan who swore he hated ska was trying to skank. <<else>> <<print $FFName>> had technical issues, and probably wasn't helped by having to dual-role as bouncer and check-in. Shit. I hadn't thought of that. By and large people were enjoying themselves, but there were pockets where the song choice didn't land with the audience or the pacing was off. <</if>> <<if $FFdrink == 1>> <<set $social ++>> I could feel everyone loosening up, getting into the Fire Festival as the alcohol had the desired affect. Some people were definitely testing the limits of my supply, but they eventually culled themselves to go puke off in the woods. <<else>> People were definitely loosening up, getting into the festivities. I had to catch myself from being a buzzkill, though, gritting my teeth as someone would go up for another drink before being done with theirs, or leaving one unfinished. I was going to run out. And so would the fun, instantly. <</if>> <<if $FFdrugs == 1>> <<set $social ++>><<set $learning -->> Damian was probably having a banner night. He gave me a wink after the first half hour, heading off to get more product. I was floored, people were trying things for the first time tonight, and everyone was smiling and laughing, losing themselves. <</if>> <br><br> <<if $barnsuccess == 5>> <<set $social ++>><<set $Memories.push("FireFest")>> I think half the school called out the next day. I know I did. That night had given me massive social capital and had added another name to the list of iconic events. <<elseif $barnsuccess gte 3>> Yes! Oh that was a rush. Not exactly what I had planned out, but the sketching of what it could be was there and everyone had a good time. Maybe not a monumental success, but I had thrown a fun party. <<else>> <<set $social -->> Well, that had not gone how I had imagined it. Far from the fantasies I had been daydreaming in class or crowding my mind at night. Shit. Well, at least some people had fun, just certainly wasn't worth all that fucking effort. <</if>> <br><br> I said [[goodbye|HS000 - Testing]] to my little Fire Festival, at least for the time being. <</if>> <<if $attempt == true>> <<if $ChellaDetect == true || $ChellaDirect == true || $ChellaSneak == true>> <<set $social ++>><<set $performance ++>> <a class="border img"><img src="img/Coppicechella.jpg"></a> Walking in to the manicured group of oaks I was at a loss at to why this was special, even seeing the lights pulsing ahead and feeling the energy of the people already convened. It was just a party in some trees. <br><br> Oh. Ohhh. Now I got it. It really did have the feel of a small-town Coachella. Tents dotted the space between the trees even though this was a one-night event. Over the years -- it couldn't have been from day one, right? -- a full-on stage had been erected at the treeline. And while there was no ferris wheel, there were discarded ferris seats scattered throughout the copse as little seating areas. I didn't want to think about how many hookups had happened in them throughout the years. <br><br> "Welcome to Coppice-chella!" The crowd erupted. I couldn't help but cheer, vibrating in excitement. I pressed forward to the stage, "First up, we've got an up and coming band from not too far away, let's welcome Hot Tub Ska Machine!" <br><br> They were fucking fantastic. I skanked my heart out, despite my dress. Everyone was blissed out, drunk, high, on things or just on the music and it was infectious. No one cared, they just wanted to enjoy themselves. <br><br> Ska Machine stepped off the stage to raucous applause and the next band stepped on. The bands played on and I definitely [[didn't go to school|HS000 - Testing]] the next day. <<else>> I wasn't going to get in. <br><br> I <<if $spoiled == true>>screamed and stamped in the dirt by the frontage, grabbing the fence and shaking it. Chet laughed and waved me off<<else>>bristled, about to try again but Chet saved me off, barely even lifting his eyes<</if>>. I could hear the thumping noise from my bed, curled up alone. I couldn't fall asleep as the lights played across the clouds and sky. It was a bad night. <br><br> I heard that Ava was one of the few 'chosen ones' that year. And the stories that came from her expanded the mythology of Coppice-chella, and I'd [[never know|HS000 - Testing][$Confident --]] first hand. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'act'>> <<if $actpath == 1>> <<set $HSBC += 3>><<set $performance += 2>><<set $Easy ++>><<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $wiles ++>> I was overwhelmed. The casting couch wasn't a myth. It also didn't seem to be a rare aspect of the business. I wondered if maybe I should have had a chaperone around, but I also felt the pressure and the opportunity constantly. I tried to balance everything and manage expectations as best I could. I tried to sus out the truth from these guys in these offices. <br><br> It wasn't for naught, though. Through it all I managed a 'day player' on a procedural drama. I literally lost my shit when it turned into a small recurring arc. This business really did work the way people said it did. But it worked. <br><br> Being on set was exhilarating. It was crazy to be alongside such big-name actors and get to know them as just...normal people. And they were //so// nice. Whoever said that famous people were pretentious needs to get over themselves. <br><br> I made sure to soak it all up and also not press too hard. Didn't want to blow any other opportunity that might come my way from this. <br><br> Everyone was more than happy to help and made sure I hit my mark, kept the proper eyeline, and effectively delivered my scene. <br><br> I was the detective's main source on a 'white slavery' case<<if $Skin == "black" || $Skin == "golden">>, which I found hilarious,<</if>> and over the arc had to continue being undercover to help unearth who was really behind it all. <br><br> An absolutely insane experience, some fantastic paychecks, and also some contacts that I wasn't sure if they would ever [[pan out|HS000 - Testing]], but I felt like I needed to keep them warm. <<elseif $actpath == 2>> <<set $performance += 2>> We worked on Shepard, some scenes from Deadwood, and Tombstone. Eventually, I got him out of his comfort zone and was able to bring in my own ideas and scenes. <br><br> Working with the camera. Improving my vocal technique. Some stagecraft like props and blocking. But really, he helped me understand my own 'method'. <br><br> My afternoons with Jessup left me feeling confident in my ability -- whether or not I used it [[ever again|HS000 - Testing]]. <<elseif $actpath == 3>> <<set $performance ++>><<set $discipline ++>><<set $social ++>><<set $Confident ++>> Being on set was exhilarating. It was crazy to be alongside such big-name actors and get to know them as just...normal people. And they were //so// nice. Whoever said that famous people were pretentious needs to get over themselves. <br><br> I made sure to soak it all up and also not press too hard. Didn't want to blow any other opportunity that might come my way from this. <br><br> Everyone was more than happy to help and made sure I hit my mark, kept the proper eyeline, and effectively delivered my scene. Well, I was //in// the scene. <br><br> A couple of lines, but I was on camera as the detectives asked me and a couple other girls questions. We had been 'trafficked' and they were after the perps. <br><br> An absolutely insane experience, a good paycheck, and learned some things I never thought mattered. Man, making TV and film is [[complicated|HS000 - Testing]]! <<elseif $actpath == 4>><<set $Confident -->> I had put my heart and soul out there and gotten crushed. One of the many who tried every day, every year. But at least I could say that [[I tried|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> <<set $performance ++>><<set $Excitable ++>> Kissing 'Romeo' throughout rehearsal was a kick. He was some plumber's son and going to technical college. But he was cute. It was a ''lot'' of kissing. <br><br> He didn't mind. I didn't mind. Sometimes we rehearsed outside of rehearsal. <br><br> Otherwise, the whole thing was such a kick. I felt center stage and super important. The applause was surprisingly emphatic for our couple of performances. <br><br> As I said goodbye to the auditorium's green room on closing night, I wondered if catching the acting bug like this would be a good thing or a bad thing. [[It was fun, though|HS000 - Testing]].<</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'beach'>> It's a big beach. There's anywhere from a few hundred to a thousand plus people a day -- especially weekends. I never ran into anyone from school. So, there's never really any fear of those awkward teen moments you see in movies. <br><br> I did my rounds. I slept on the the rickety tower of shame. I put in my hours and, then, I would leave. Hey now. I was dedicated for the full eight hours...minus my lunch. <br><br> Days just went by and shit remained uncharacteristically normal. Yay for tediousness. <br><br> Wait. Someone was...coming up to me? <br><br> As they got nearer...Oh fuck...I //knew// them. <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger, one of the hottest guys<<else>>Amanda, one of the hottest girls<</if>> from school. Fuckity fuck fuck. <<if $Confident gt 0>> <br><br> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> Of all the rickety lifeguard shacks on this sprawling beach <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger<<else>>Amanda<</if>> just had to walk up. Checking my skin -- scaly -- I hadn't been in the water. Shit. <br><br> A fresh coat of SPF 25 made my skin glisten. <br><br> "Uhh hi, is there something I can help you with, cutie?" I leaned against the railing trying to present my body at that model angle. My red bathing suit taut on my curves. <br><br> <<if $Pubes == "bush">> <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger<<else>>Amanda<</if>> stopped just below the railing staring up at me. The sunlight made them shine in the afternoon light. <br><br> ?He kicked a little sand in front of ?him. "I, uhh, heh, came cause there was an issue...yeah." <br><br> "Well that's what I am here for //cutie//." Twice? Ugh, where's my game? Outwardly, I was solid. Inwardly: chaos. <br><br> ?His eyes were on my form as I watched ?him eye me from head to toe. "Uhh, you need to put a bush...err, ''brush'' of paint on that shack, heh." <br><br> ?He shook ?his head at ?his stupidity. "I got sidetracked. There's some guys lighting fireworks near the bush--err I mean, brush by the dunes. It'll start a fire!" <br><br> "Oh no. That ''is'' a problem. That protected ground. I'll get on it right away." <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> Having my crush there and ?he seemed more timid than I was, I figured, what the hell. "Before that, though...you like what you saw just now? Is that why you stumbled through the...bush twice?" <br><br> "Well I...uhhh." <br><br> "It's okay...hehe. I leave it natural because when my partner ''gets it''...if they have no problem with it, then we have no problem." <br><br> I brushed some of the curls along my bikini line for effect. "This a problem for you?" <br><br> ?He gulped, "Nuh-no." <br><br> I let ?her sweat it for a second, then: "GOOD," I cheered. "Maybe you could take me out sometime and make up for your...Bush-lunder, hehe." <br><br> ?He smiled and nodded. [[Cool|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> My crush being there looking all timid was somewhat of a shock. ''?He'' was the hot one. <br><br> I took advantage of the momentary superiority: "I'm not dumb. I'll have you know a womanscape is her business." <br><br> "Well I...uhhh, sorry." ?He looked down dejected. <br><br> "It's okay. I'm just playing with you, silly. How about take me out sometime? Call it B-ush-alanced?" <br><br> ?He smiled and nodded. [[Cool|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <br><br> <<else>> ?He came up to just below the railing of shack, smiling cutely and giving __super__ cute. The sunlight framed ?her body giving ?her spotlight silhouette. <br><br> Shuffling ?her toes in the sand, "Uhhh, <<$print Name>>, I think there is an issue you need to go deal with right away." <br><br> "What's the issue, cutie?" A strong facade while insides were screaming. <br><br> As if being sized up, ?his eyes scoured my mostly exposed flesh. "There's some guys playing with fireworks near the dunes. It's likely to start a fire." <br><br> "Oh shit. That is a serious problem. Those plants are protected. I'll take care of it. Thanks for letting me know, hehe." I couldn't help but giggle, my attraction [[winning out|HS000 - Testing]]. <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> It was empowering, seeing my crush somewhat shy around me. So I went for it. <br><br> "You know...you //could// have taken a picture. It would have lasted longer," I framed my body like a model on the Price is Right. <br><br> "...damn, I'm sorry." <br><br> "It's no biggie. Just the body I was born with, ya know." I hefted my <<print $Tits>> breasts to tease ?him more. <br><br> "Yuh -- yeah, true. Heh," ?he scratched ?his neck. <br><br> "Say, why don't you take me out and you might just get to see what's hiding under this bathing suit." I pretended to take a strap off my shoulder. ?He [[grinned|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> <br><br> <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger<<else>>Amanda<</if>> was literally standing near me looking all demure. I couldn't believe it. <br><br> "It's impolite to undress a lady with your eyes, ya know. You should be ashamed," I wagged a finger for effect. <br><br> "Damn it. I'm sorry. That was rude." <br><br> "You should be. It's okay. Make it up to me by taking me out sometime." ?He [[grinned|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<else>> <br><br> Just my fucking luck. There's at least //ten// other lifeguard shacks within a short distance and they have to amble up to my dilapidated hut. Lucky for me, I didn't have matted hair from swimming in the ocean. <br><br> A good lather of SPF 25 was still lingering on my skin, so I had a good glow. Oops. Still streaky. Damn it. <br><br> "Uhhh, hey there...friend. What's the problem?" I awkwardly leaned against the railing trying to present my better side...did I do it right? It felt awkward. <br><br> <<if $Pubes == "bush">> Just below me there stood <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger<<else>>Amanda<</if>> smiling up at me with ?his charming face. The sun behind ?him making ?him more beautiful than ever. <br><br> They gave me quick up-and-down before quickly pointing back and off to the right, "Your stand needs a good Bushing--err brushing of paint." Realizing ?his mistake ?he continued anyway. "There's some guys blowing up fireworks near that big Bush--err brush. It's dangerous. Can you take care of it?" <br><br> Slightly fuming now, "Yeah. I can take care of the ''bush''. It's a protected area." <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>> My crush did notice my crotch region. Well, at least I caught their eye somehow. <br><br> "There could be fire to put out in //my// bush later if you want, hehe." <br><br> "Yeah...well, hmmm. I would. For sure, but my <<if $Sexuality == 1>>girlfriend<<else>>boyfriend<</if>> may not like that. Sorry." <br><br> That came as a little bit of surprise. "Ok then, your loss." They walked off. I jumped down to stop [[the fire|HS000 - Testing]]. Ours was already quenched. <<else>> <br><br> Not but a few feet away my crush stood below me at my stand. It blew me away. <br><br> "A lesson in manners: Don't stare at a lady and then comment about her body. Got it?" <br><br> "Yeah...you're right. Sorry." <br><br> "You can make it up to me by taking me out," I smiled. <br><br> "My <<if $Sexuality == 1>>girlfriend<<else>>boyfriend<</if>> may not like that. Sorry. You're nice and all." [[Ouch|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <<else>> <br><br> Walking up was the vision of of beauty, right below me in the sand. Of course, the sun behind ?him gave ?him this otherworldly beauty. <br><br> Right to the point, <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger<<else>>Amanda<</if>> didn't play coy. I did notice a quick glance at my body. "There's some guys playing with fireworks and blowing stuff up by the dunes. It's dangerous. Can you go take care of it?" <br><br> "Damn it. Those fucking guys. Yeah, I'll get it taken care of right away." I grabbed my radio. "Charlie. We got a code 27 on the dunes." <br><br> <<if $Easy gt 1>>My crush being so close, I felt like I //had// to try. <br><br> "I couldn't help but notice you, noticing me." <br><br> "Eeek, sorry about that." <br><br> "I don't mind you lookin', but if you want the real show...you should take me out." <br><br> ?He shrugged. "I am not sure my <<if $Sexuality == 1>>girlfriend<<else>>boyfriend<</if>> would like that. Sorry." <br><br> "No biggie." It was a [[biggie|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> <br><br> The one I had my eye on, <<if $Sexuality == 1>>Roger<<else>>Amanda<</if>> stood below me looking __good__. The sun's rays streaming behind ?him picturesque. <br><br> "My eyes are up here. Don't ''objectify'' me." <br><br> "Yeah, yeah. Sorry." <br><br> "It's fine. Perhaps we should hang out and you could make it up to me, maybe." <br><br> "Ehhhh...My <<if $Sexuality == 1>>girlfriend<<else>>boyfriend<</if>> wouldn't like that. Again [[sorry|HS000 - Testing]]." <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<else>> <br><br> I ducked away in shame. Maybe they didn't see me. I locked the door. Closed the blinds. Still. They'd go away eventually. Hoped no one was [[drowning|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'club'>> <<if $makeit == 1>> <<undress>><<set $virgin = false>><<set $HSBC ++>><<run $Bodies.push("Unknown rando that ended my Legendary tour")>> I don't remember if I screamed, but my brain did. I felt like a vampire as the morning sun seared my eyes. I turned away, clutching sheets...these weren't my sheets. <br><br> They were sticking to me too. <br><br> Clenching my eyes I slid out of the bed. Carefully, because everything hurt. I stumbled around for my dress...found it. I pulled it over my naked body as I took in the bare back of some guy. <br><br> My inner thighs were tacky, and a quick finger check: yep, pussy smelled heavily of bleach. <<if $fertile == 1>>Fuuuuck. Kay. Too late. Deal with that later.<<else>>Happy that I was safe, I just hoped I didn't catch anything.<</if>> <br><br> I grabbed my heels and slid out of the basement apartment and found myself looking at the city. I was in fucking [[Jersey City|HS000 - Testing][$social --]]. <<elseif $makeit == 2>> Lit. tle. Sistahhh. I maaaade it. <br><br> We were exhausted, and we'd lost Lexi along the way -- even Ava was showing it. <<if $athletics gt 3>>I moved without the tell-tale signs, holding up better than any of them. <</if>>We clambered inside the bougie lounge, getting eye rolls from the buttoned up suits and ties, because we definitely looked the part of partiers. And if it weren't for Ava's pass, a bouncer certainly would have ejected me for fear that I'd eject on someone. <br><br> I dropped into the lounge at the back, eager for its embrace as the Legendaries looked me over. One corrected the hem of my skirt. The rest began talking to Ava and <<print $FName>> about the night's tales, especially how I ended up...this way. <br><br> There's a vague recollection of them deciding whether or not I deserved the final right, but Della insisted and helped carry me to the nearby parlor for the final initiation: tattooing "Legendary" behind our [[right ears|HS000 - Testing][$Inked = true; $Tattoos.push("Right Ear"); $social ++]]. <<elseif $makeit == 3>> <<undress>><<set $virgin = false>><<set $HSBC ++>><<run $Bodies.push("Adonis that ended my Legendary tour")>> The morning sun seared my eyes. I turned away, clutching the sheets. Fuck. I didn't make it to the end of the tour. <br><br> My insides felt sore, my body felt relaxed, and my mind replayed the memories of the events of the previous...morning. Well, my needs were satisfied and the gentle rise and fall of the muscular back beside me hinted of his satisfaction as well. <br><br> I grabbed my heels, found my dress and checked on his side of the bed: Condom, check. Cool. Good good. I double checked with my fingers and was pretty sure that all I felt was me. I tasted it. Yep, just me. <br><br> I took the elevator down and hailed a cab. I didn't complete the tour and would certainly get roasted for this, but I had a [[fun night|HS000 - Testing][$social --]]. <<else>> Little Sister. Last stop. Holy fuck, we made it. <br><br> We were exhausted, Lexi was flagging, even Ava was showing it. <<if $athletics gt 3>>I moved without the tell-tale signs, holding up better than any of them. <</if>>We clambered inside the bougie lounge, getting eye rolls from the buttoned up suits and ties, because we definitely looked the part of partiers. <br><br> Thankfully, there was a lounge set aside by the last group of Legendaries. Butterflies tickled the insides of my ribcage as we plopped down beside them. They nodded, impressed and bought us a round. <br><br> We regaled them with tales of the evening and then led us to a nearby parlor for the final initiation: tattooing "Legendary" behind our [[right ears|HS000 - Testing][$Inked = true; $Tattoos.push("Right Ear"); $social ++]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'dance'>> <<if $makeit == 1>> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $athletics ++>><<set $coordination ++>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>> <<set $athletics ++>> <<else>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("fit")>> <</if>> <<else>> <<run $Bodytraits.push("legs")>> <</if>> It came to me slowly, like pulling gently at threads of a memory until it came to the forefront of your mind. And then the fluidity returned to my limbs, my positions became more exact, my actions more precise. <br><br> Couldn't come near the girls who had been doing it for ages, but I narrowed the gap substantially and received even a nod from Evelyn, my instructor. Not sure if it was being impressed or that I was present. <br><br> As we wrapped for the season, I reflected and, passing by my trusty room mirror I also saw my reflection -- if my body wasn't different now, more of a ballerina's form, I'll be damned -- <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>>those lithe and elegant legs,<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>>that extreme tightness and toning to my muscles,<</if>> so I guess it had [[perks|HS000 - Testing]] beyond higher jumps. <<elseif $makeit == 2>> <<set $wiles ++>><<set $performance ++>><<set $coordination ++>> Popping and locking, the right purse of the lips, the right energy in the eyes. All the pieces of the new puzzle came to me, locking into place as my isolations got more refined and my hips worked differently in their sockets. <br><br> It was also a relief to be able to wear whatever you wanted to class and for what I learned to have just a ''bit'' more applicability to a more daily use-case. <br><br> As we wrapped the session of classes, I felt more at home in my body and with a bit more versatility to the way I [[could move|HS000 - Testing]]. <<elseif $makeit == 3>> <<set $performance ++>><<set $coordination ++>><<set $social ++>> Everything came down to rhythm. There wasn't too much variation in what was moving or how far, but your timing had to be great to make this look effortless and good. Funny how much work it was to make it look like no work. <br><br> And goddamn if it wasn't nice to have a 'lead'. The partnership in the dances was something I missed in the more solitary ballet performing. And here, you could essentially wear what you wanted which was nice. <br><br> As we wrapped the session of classes, I felt not only more connected to my body and how I could move, but also developed some friendships and connection to the others in my class. This was a far more social version of [[dancing|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> <<set $performance ++>><<set $coordination ++>><<set $athletics ++>> There was something calming and peaceful about performing a piece. Perfecting it was rigorous and the execution was exacting, but as it coalesced in form first in each individual and then as the group, it felt transcendent. <br><br> It also felt more 'now' and at home than ballet. Like the natural evolution of what I had been taught originally. <br><br> As we wrapped the session of classes, I welcomed the massive versatility that contemporary dance had brought into [[my repertoire|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'vandal'>> So, my school has a mascot of sorts. That it's a cow shows just how uninspired these people are. And, well, there's a tradition amongst the kids more like me -- something had to happen to Sue. Now it was my turn. <br><br> <div id = "cow"> There was the tried and true <<link "theft">><<replace "#cow">> <<set $Risky ++>> <br><br> It wasn't going to be easy. Raymond had a massive truck, which would make the transportation simple, but it was garishly red. The cow, also: massive. And this wasn't some brilliant, unique idea. Sue had been stolen before and so the district actually assigned more money to monitoring her than the safety of the students. <br><br> <<if $deception gt 0>> I took it upon myself to solve the last problem. I kept tabs on Mitchell and on the night, I knew exactly when to 'need help getting inside.' <br><br> "Oh, uh hey, Mitchell." <br><br> "Mhmmm...<<print $Surname>>" <br><br> "Could you help me? I have a test tomorrow and I left my book in my locker. I really need to grab it and my notes." I bit my lower lip, flashing as puppy-dog <<print $Eyes>> eyes as I could. <br><br> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("eyes") || $Attractiveness gt 3>> "Well...o-okay little lady. Just this once." I nodded and did a little leprechaun jump as I followed behind Mitchell, leaving Allie and Raymond to move in. <br><br> Pelting my way out the other side of the school and back around to the truck, I was nearly breathless when I met up with the two of them, also huffing as they tried to move a massive bovine into the attached trailer. Who woulda thought: tough to just push a cow. <br><br> <<if $learning gt 3>> "Guys..." I shook my head, disappointed. It took them a few moments of me waving her pail in front of her face and seeing her ambling forward into the trailer before they understood the idea of literal carrot versus stick. <br><br> And then we were off. Sue in tow. <br><br> It was a little bit of a game at school as the kids tried to sus us out. Eventually we let them know, because we wanted the cred, of course. <br><br> They said they found her and returned her within the week, but I believe Sue is still out in Harv's fields to this day, if her markings are [[any indication|HS000 - Testing][$social ++; $deception ++; $wiles ++]]. <<else>> And...thats how we were found by Mitchell, returning to his duties and proud to be escorting ne'er-do-wells off property. We received [[detention the next couple weeks|HS000 - Testing][$discipline --; $deception ++]] <</if>> <<else>> "Sorry, duty's duty, ya know?" He shook his head forlornly. "Best of luck tomorrow, though, little lady." He tipped his hat, as if he were John Wayne, sauntering off on his rounds. I made a mental note to work on my helpless woman act as I headed back to Raymond and Allie, shrugging as they waved at me like 'WTF!' <br><br> We had little other option but to wait for his bathroom break. Raymond idled the truck up to Sue, who lowed in a way that made me wonder if she knew what was coming. <br><br> Behind her and getting a full nose of her recent meals, we pushed, pressed and prodded to get her into the attached trailer we had...borrowed...but who woulda known it'd be difficult to move a bovine like this. <br><br> Soon, we were cow-less and heading home, defeated. Mitchell had chased us off and we received [[detention the next couple weeks|HS000 - Testing][$discipline --; $deception ++]]. <</if>> <<else>> <br><br> Pelting my way out the other side of the school and back around to the truck, I was nearly breathless when I met up with the two of them, also huffing as they tried to move a massive bovine into the attached trailer. Who woulda thought: tough to just push a cow. <br><br> <<if $learning gt 3>> "Guys..." I shook my head, disappointed. It took them a few moments of me waving her pail in front of her face and seeing her ambling forward into the trailer before they understood the idea of literal carrot versus stick. <br><br> And then we were off. Sue in tow. <br><br> It was a little bit of a game at school as the kids tried to sus us out. Eventually we let them know, because we wanted the cred, of course. <br><br> They said they found her and returned her within the week, but I believe Sue is still out in Harv's fields to this day, if her markings are [[any indication|HS000 - Testing][$social ++; $deception ++; $wiles ++]]. <<else>> And...thats how we were found by Mitchell, returning to his duties and proud to be escorting ne'er-do-wells off property. We received [[detention the next couple weeks|HS000 - Testing][$discipline --; $deception ++]] <</if>> <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. <br> Sending a <<link "message to the man">><<replace "#cow">> <<set $Stable -->> Sue was paraded around at school events, usually in some half-assed attempt at a pun or some extended metaphor that never landed with us. <br><br> I thought there might be a better, more direct use of her at the upcoming convocation. So, the night before, I snuck out of the house and headed to the field where they kept Sue. <br><br> Sue had been stolen before, so the district actually assigned more money to monitoring her than the safety of the students. <br><br> I had considered a few methods of maneuvering Mitchell away, but the risk was too great so I decided upon timing his routine. I lay in wait, watching him wander aimlessly, making money for doing nothing except stand in a field. <br><br> As soon as he turned his back, I sprinted across the field and up to the cow, paintbrush and bucket in hand. She lowed and I wondered if she was trying to say, "Oh, please don't..." <br><br> "Sorry, girl." The top of the bucket popped off and I dipped the brush, beginning work. It was difficult, given I didn't want them noticing and cleaning it off in time, so I had to do my best to remember my strokes and watch the glisten. <br><br> Before Mitchell was back, I was off, heading home and preparing part two: <<linkreplace "Black Light">> Surreptitiously planting black lights in a venue like our gym was no easy feat. It took multiple passes, checks, and a few skipped classes, but I think I had hidden the power cords and bulbs enough -- but not too much. <br><br> Convocation started and the requisite cheers and rah-rah happened before Headmaster Suarez came out, waving his best Nixon, leading Sue begrudgingly behind him. <br><br> "Thank you! Thank you! Next week is Sadie Hawkins, so I hope you all have -- what's that, Sue?" Suarez bent down as if Sue was whispering to him. Now. <br><br> I hit the switch and before he could land a punchline, the school erupted in laughter as "Call PETA" in bright purple rippled across her fur. <br><br> Suarez turned every shade of red. He jerked upright like someone had shoved a rod up his ass. Quickly, he grabbed her reins and tried to pull her out of the gym -- as fast as a ton of cow would move. <br><br> A second bout of laughter: "PLEASE! <3 <<print $Name>>" on the other side. <br><br> It was worth the [[detention|HS000 - Testing][$social ++; $Risky ++; $Confident ++]]. <</linkreplace>> <</replace>><</link>> was always an option. <br><br> And the sweet and simple: <<link "tipping">><<replace "#cow">> <<set $Sophisticated -->> It wasn't going to be easy. Sue was massive. And this wasn't some brilliant, unique idea. Sue had been stolen before, so the district actually assigned more money to monitoring her than the safety of the students. <br><br> <<if $deception gt 0>> I took it upon myself to solve the last problem. I kept tabs on Mitchell and on the night, I knew exactly when to 'need help getting inside.' <br><br> "Oh, uh hey, Mitchell." <br><br> "Mhmmm...<<print $Surname>>" <br><br> "Could you help me? I have a test tomorrow and I left my book in my locker. I really need to grab it and my notes." I bit my lower lip, flashing as puppy-dog <<print $Eyes>> eyes as I could. <br><br> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("eyes") || $Attractiveness gt 3>> "Well...o-okay little lady. Just this once." I nodded and did a little leprechaun jump as I followed behind Mitchell, leaving Allie and Raymond to move in. <<else>> "Sorry, duty's duty, ya know?" He shook his head forlornly. "Best of luck tomorrow, though, little lady." He tipped his hat, as if he were John Wayne, sauntering off on his rounds. I made a mental note to work on my helpless woman act as I headed back to Raymond and Allie, shrugging as they waved at me like 'WTF!' <br><br> We had little other option but to wait for his bathroom break. We slid out of Raymond's truck and snuck over to Sue, who lowed in a way that made me wonder if she knew what was coming. The three of us leaned into her and the heft of the heifer. <br><br> <</if>> <</if>> Pelting my way out the other side of the school and back around to the truck, I was nearly breathless when I met up with the two of them, also huffing as they tried to move a massive bovine into the attached trailer. Who woulda thought: tough to just push a cow. <<if $athletics gt 2>> We rocked against her, feet planted as best we could. We gave her shoulders and a good count and there she went. A long, deep moo came from her as she toppled, simply not designed against an attack from the flanks. <br><br> The ground shuddered as she dropped and we scrambled back to Raymond's truck. We high-fived and crowed out the windows as we sped through the town. <br><br> While we had assumed it was just a small mischief we were making, it turned out to have had far broader consequences than we expected. Sue was dead. <br><br> <<if $Excitable gt 0 && $Risky gt 0>>I didn't care who knew it, I didn't care what people thought. I wanted people to [[know what I did|HS000 - Testing][$social ++; $deception ++]].<<else>>A few people found out, but we mostly kept [[it to ourselves|HS000 - Testing][$deception ++]].<</if>> <<else>> We rocked against her, feet planted as best we could. We gave her shoulders, but our count was off and we heard Mitchell yelling. We scrambled, I fell in a mudpie. <br><br> Sue stayed standing and I stayed in the back of the trailer as we [[sped away|HS000 - Testing][$deception ++]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'helper'>> One Saturday, there was a neighborhood garage sale. We donated a few boxes of things to be sold. Luckily, it was a mild and warm sunny day so it wouldn't be too unbearable for a late morning start. <br><br> I never understood why these were still a thing. Ebay and...well, the internet...would have made all of it easier and less sweaty, but, I guess for some it felt better to be selling to those next door. <br><br> <<if $Stable lt 0>> I knew I was supposed to try to be the good "neighbor" and all but meh, there are other more fun things to do than be around pretentious people buying used-up crap. <br><br> I ditched out at the [[earliest opportunity|HS000 - Testing][$discipline --]]. <<else>> It was my duty to help out our fellow neighbors. Not only for the Mr. Rogers' element; you never knew when having people who liked you nearby could help you or your family. <br><br> Hefting our family' boxes for sale, I walked up to the head lady: Ms. Z. <br><br> "Oh hey, <<print $Name>>. Thank you so much!" <br><br> "No biggie Ms. Z." I smiled, having nowhere else important to be, I set to work the tables, pricing and just keeping eyes on all the randos that walked up.<br><br> <<if $perception gt 0>> Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a young kid snag something...probably one of those Garbage Pail Kids cards...and pocket it. <br><br> I didn't immediately react, I was too far and they could jet. Carefully, I stalked a little closer as the bugger put on a cool facade, pretending to browse. <br><br> <<if $Investigation gt 0>>I kept a couple paces back, avoiding eye contact with the perp. I matched his 'make-believe,' shifting items on the table as I made my careful approach. <br><br> <<if $Confident lt 0>> But...did he steal something? He seemed like he was behaving now and I don't think I had been made. Maybe it was a trick of my eyes. I certainly didn't want to make a scene. It wasn't my [[stuff anyway|HS000 - Testing][$Suggestible ++]]. <br><br> <<else>> I couldn't let the kid out of my sight. I kept pace on him incase he was a runner. I saw him pocket another item so it was time to pounce. <br><br> <<if $athletics gt 1>> I covered the ground quickly, pulling up in front of him in a shot, "Hey kid. Whatcha got there?” He balked, I leaned in, “You need to pay for those." <br><br> "W-where'd you come from? I didn't take crap," the kid tried to back away. My reaction had alerted the other adults. He could feel the attention. <br><br> "Empty your pockets, kid. If they're empty, then it's my bad. Otherwise, we call the //cops// so you can learn a lesson." <br><br> "I--I don't want any trouble. Suh-suh-sorry. I just liked them. Here? See?" the kid turned out his shorts and the two trinkets appeared. <br><br> "Stealing is not the right way of getting things you want. This stuff is someone else's. If you wanted, it you could have tried to negotiate and trade for it. <br><br> I won't call the cops since you were honest. So. You can either leave it behind or find the owner and work out a trade." <br><br> "Tha-thanks." He wiped his shining cheeks. <br><br> Ms. Z waltzed over after watching the exchange from a distance. <br><br> "That was mighty nice of you letting that kid go. I hope he learned his lesson." <br><br> We were cut off as a young <<if $Sexuality == 1>>man<<else>>girl<</if>> came running up. "Grandma, grandma, you okay? What was all that commotion about?" <br><br> Ms. Z greeted her kin, "It was some kid trying to steal. <<print $Name>>, here, thwarted them. <<print $Name>> this is my <<if $Sexuality == 1>>grandson<<else>>granddaughter<</if>>, Alex." <br><br> Even before the introductions, I knew who they were. God, was I crushing. <br><br> "Huh-hi, Alex. I'm <<print $Name>>--right, she said that. It was nothing. Just saw the kid and took action." Not my best attempt at playing cool. <br><br> ?He smiled, "Well, thanks. Not every day are people willing to get involved. I like those kinds of people, heh." ?he…blushed, slightly? <br><br> With a not-so-subtle nudge from Ms. Z, I moved closer, "Uhh, uhh, you…wanna go grab some food or coffee sometime?" <br><br> FIREWORKS!! Holy Shit! Act Natural, act natural. "Hmmm, yeah I guess so," I pushed some of my <<print $Hair>> hair behind my ear. <br><br> Their shoulders relaxed. "Great! Let me get your number and we'll go out." <br><br> "GREAT! I mean, yeah. Sounds good." I wanted to believe they weren't trying to duck me and were just playing it off. "I gotta go now. It was great meeting you. Great garage sale. Great day. Byeeee!" <br><br> I couldn't help watching them go. I hated seeing them leave…butt…[[this was nice|HS000 - Testing][$investigation ++]]. <br><br> <<else>> I moved swiftly but bumbled my steps knocking candlesticks and dinnerware over as I hit my knee. The kid, now alerted, bolted. <br><br> "HEY! KID! Come back!" I continued the chase, weaving around tables and people with my now-hobbling gait. <br><br> The kid certainly had the beat on me. I needed an edge. <br><br> "Look out! Car!" I tried surprise (not my finest) which seemed to do the trick. The kid stumbled at the sidewalk, teetering before going into the road. <br><br> I grabbed his arm just as he realized he'd been duped. <br><br> Gathering myself, "Why you runnin', kid? You stealin'?" I panted. Not a good show. <br><br> "Leave me alone. I didn't steal. //You// scared me. So I ran." <br><br> "I saw you pocket some items. Empty them and I'll let you go. If not, I gotta call the cops," my labored breathing started calming down. <br><br> "Screw you." The truculent kid wasn't cooperating. <br><br> Ms. Z and a couple of other adults came over to assist. The kid was forced to empty his pockets. Cops were called. I felt bad but we can't have petty theft in the neighborhood. <br><br> "Great job, <<print $Name>>. Every year it seems like a certain number of things go missing. Saved the day today." <br><br> "Eh, just cost a twisted ankle." <br><br> "Oh no! Deary. Let me help with that…Come on." Ms. Z was leaving the yard sale, for me? It was all a little much being escorted back to her house. And then it got to be a lot. <br><br> A hot young <<if $Sexuality == 1>>man<<else>>girl<</if>> popped out of her front door. "Gran-gran, everything alright? Why are there //cops// here?" It was my damn crush. <br><br> "Calm down, calm down. I'm fine. But, our banged up <<print $Name>> here stopped us from being robbed." <br><br> "Gran, robbed? Don't be so extreme. I'm sure it wasn't that...oh." Our eyes met for the briefest of moments before I turned away. "Hi, I'm Alex. Thanks for helping out, uh, my grandma." <br><br> Their apparent nerves helped calm mine, "Awww, it was painful but worth it, heh," I couldn't keep direct eye contact. <br><br> Ms. Z saw the tension and nudged Alex kindly. ?he jolted in surprise. "Yeah. Uh…This hero deserves a reward. Can I take you to lunch or coffee sometime?" <br><br> Pain in my knee? What pain? "Uhhh, yeah. That would be cool, yeah," I kicked some grass feeling lame. <br><br> "Oh excellent, let's exchange numbers!" ?he pulled out ?her phone and digits changed hands. <br><br> "I, uhh, gotta get home and tend to my wounds…and ego, heh. See you...uhh, soon, Alex. //Bye//!" I didn't wait for their response. <br><br> I stumbled home feeling proud for having helped my neighbors, not fumbling a rare chance with my crush, and stopped some punk kid from stealing. I hope they learnt [[their lesson|HS000 - Testing][$investigation ++]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<else>> Taking a closer look, I wasn't careful and went ass-over-head bumping into a table. Klutz! Good thing it was a shorts day. The kid jetted. Mrs. Z shook her head at the upended table but was thankful I had scared him off before more damage was done to her bottom line. Just have to be more careful [[next time|HS000 - Testing][$coordination ++]]. <</if>> <<else>> It was so nice out. People browsed and kindly moved down the makeshift aisles. The hours passed, making a few introductions to people I didn't know and seemed pleasant enough, a couple of sales for Mrs. Z, and saying "Have a great day," about a billion times. It kind of shocked me when Mrs. Z dressed me down for missing and unsold items from my section. A thief had gotten past me. [[My bad|HS000 - Testing][$perception ++]], I vowed to not let that happen again. <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'church'>> Once a month, we did good works, mostly volunteering at a local old folks home. We were assigned our 'buddies' and it was such a lovely sight to see them react to our arrival. Life re-entered them. They were funny. Vibrant. And it made it all the sadder. <br><br> They had been essentially forgotten by and large by their family. Or they had no family left. The people paid to care for them put as much emotional distance between them and their patients as possible. I understood it, but that's what we were there for. <br><br> "Clark!" <br><br> "<<print $Name>>!" He tried to raise himself from his chair a few times before I was there and helping him get up. <br><br> "Careful now. Good to see you too." The hug was awkward and the smell was something //different// but I could feel the need in his arthritic grasp. <br><br> <div id ="clark"> Wanna <<link "play a game">><<replace "#clark">> <<set $perception ++>><<set $Sophisticated ++>>He was actually a killer at chess. I don't think I even brought him to a draw -- not like I was some chess maven when I started. <br><br> I don't think he enjoyed beating me. I think he longed for the game and partnership. He would tell stories that some move or capture reminded him of, and he taught me something about the game and being able to look past just the current position of the pieces. <br><br> There was something to that. And I was more than happy to lose. He did smile [[a little|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>? Are you leading <<link "exercise">><<replace "#clark">> <<set $performance ++>><<set $Confident ++>>"Of course. Like every time." I laughed and shook my head. I didn't know if he honestly forgot or was just so excited by the prospect. <br><br> We hobbled him over to the activity room and into one of the chairs in the semi-circle. "Hello, <<print $Name>>!" came the chorus of elderly. <br><br> I grabbed some elastic bands and we began to move. A little music, a lot of smiling and encouragement. It was far from a workout for me, but you had to put on a show so they kept their encouragement up. <br><br> And they certainly needed the activity: we were meant to be creatures that [[lived and moved|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>> hour today? Time for my <<link "bath">><<replace "#clark">> <<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $discipline ++>>My skin crawled every time, but it was old hat at this point. I helped him hobble off to his room. It took us long enough that I could steel myself for what was coming -- I don't know why I didn't expect it from the time we arranged to show up here. <br><br> His nurse helped him disrobe and she was more than keen to let me do the work, sitting in a chair and scrolling on her phone, chewing gum while I sponged down his wrinkled body -- consistency was gummy there as well. <br><br> He wasn't pervy about it, thank God, or I wouldn't have done it. And I think he knew it. He was content to sit there and chat, pleased to have the physical contact and show off what remained of his virility. <br><br> It was weird, but it wasn't wrong. And he did [[need a bath|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'partier'>> And then, when <<print $DName>> and <<print $MName>> were gone? The mice came out to play. I couldn't pass up opportunities like that? Hell, it was an //expectation// for a person with my rep as a party girl to throw a dope party when she had a chance. <br><br> Sure, the clean-up sucked. Doing it hung over and in a rush the next morning might have been a circle of hell missed in Dante's inferno. But I had The Boys and <<print FName>> to help most of the time. Or maybe a hookup or guy who stayed over with someone else might be guilted into a little trash bag duty. <br><br> All that mattered was that they didn't know when they returned. Any they probably knew. But if they weren't saying anything then I had done a good enough job making sure that the damage wasn't...permanent? Noticeable? Whatever the reason for flying under the radar, I was happy about it, passed out in my bed after too little sleep and too much party. <br><br> A party that //I// threw did exactly wht things I wanted a party to. Most importantly: <div id ="mine"> I had //my// room when I <<link "needed it">><<replace "#mine">> <<set $Easy ++>><<set $social ++>> <</replace>><</link>>. Who was there was (mostly) up to <<link "me">><<replace "#mine">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Stable ++>> <</replace>><</link>>. I got the attention for throwing a sick <<link "party">><<replace "#mine">> <<set $social ++>><<set $Suggestible ++>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'home'>> <<set $investigation ++>><<set $Risky ++>> And then there were days when I was bored out of my mind. The Boys were busy and I didn't feel in the mood. Nothing on my phone was interesting and I //certainly// didn't want to do school work. <br><br> I flipped through streaming options. I looked in the pantry for snacks. And then, all my options exhausted, I got curious. I started poking around where I knew I shouldn't be. <br><br> <<if $Mom == 1>> <<print $DName>>'s office. It was like a sanctuary and the doors were usually closed. I wondered what worlds would present themselves. <br><br> I dropped into his chair casually, as if the approach mattered. Wiggled the mouse...Password. Hm. Their...anniversary. Wow. That was way too easy. <br><br> Travel agent stuff. Trip deals, trying to convince people to spend money. Hotels...K. Boring. What about... <br><br> <<shake 2s>>Gross!<</shake>> Close, close close! I did not want to find that porn folder. Can I scrub my memory? Men in Black? Please? <br><br> Fighting the gag reflex and my better judgment, I trudged on. He sure liked his sub-folders. <br><br> Passports, his, mine...Mom's. Mom's. Mom's? There's a //dozen// of them. Stamps for: UAE, Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines...North Korea?-- <br><br> "<<print $Name>>?" Fuck. He's back. Quick shut down and find a way out of the room. <br><br> Curiosity [[kills the cat|HS000 - Testing]], right? <<else>> <<print $DName>>'s office. It was like a sanctuary and the doors were usually closed. I wondered what worlds would present themselves. <br><br> I dropped into his chair casually, as if the approach mattered. Wiggled the mouse...Password. Hm. Their...anniversary. Wow. That was way too easy. <br><br> Travel agent stuff. Trip deals, trying to convince people to spend money. Hotels...K. Boring. What about... <br><br> <<shake 2s>>Gross!<</shake>> Close, close close! I did not want to find that porn folder. Can I scrub my memory? Men in Black? Please? <br><br> Fighting the gag reflex and my better judgment, I trudged on. He sure liked his sub-folders. <br><br> Passports? The same person has...wait. Who is this woman. Why does she look so much like...me? <br><br> "<<print $Name>>?" Fuck. He's back. Quick shut down and find a way out of the room. <br><br> Curiosity [[kills the cat|HS000 - Testing]], right? <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'gang'>> Eventually, I had earned enough trust and respect in the gang to begin bringing income not just for myself but to my family. I was given a piece of the action for being able to access my unique markets. Just had to sell a little green and powder, take my cut, make sure nothing too ridiculous went missing. <br><br> It was weird doing this thing. It felt incredibly masculine. And it was risky as fuck. Being female meant a lot less eyes were on me, but it also meant people thought I was weak. That I could be taken advantage of, ripped off. It meant I had to affect a hard-line attitude, cut people off quicker, force people's hands, and pick the right venues. <br><br> So, I preferred to... <br><br> <div id ="dealing"> Take the risks, do the corners, take all comers as <<link "clients">><<replace "#dealing">> <<set $Inven.push("9mm Pistol")>><<set $Risky ++>>I'd deal a little at school -- didn't want to get too much of a rep or literally kicked out. Then, I'd head out to my neighborhood park that was overrun by youth groups and the other yuppie, nimby bullshit. The others in the group wouldn't dare be in this area, so it provided a little locational advantage. <br><br> A girl, sitting at a picnic table alone got attention and the kind that you could slowly, subtly turn into a deal. It had become 'my spot' and regulars began to know where and when to expect me. It felt surprisingly exciting to be doing something so illicit around people who would have been aghast at the idea. And that //I// was the dealer. Egad. <br><br> It'd be one guy before the weekend, then a different one who had a hard day at work, a girl with a habit, and occasionally some guy who -- when all his friends left -- darted over before he lost his shit. Those were the best. <br><br> Today was odd, quiet, guessing people were still high from the last time. It happened. And then there were these three guys I'd never seen before approaching me. "K. Hand it over, bitch." A knife was flashed. My blood ran cold. I had not expected this. Here. Even with all of my experience and what I had learned, I froze. I had no clue what to do and my brain just went into full "don't want to die"-mode. <br><br> They took my shit and then I lost my shit. Amari was surprisingly understanding. And then he [[gave me a gun|HS000 - Testing]] for the next time. <</replace>><</link>>. <br> Focus on my access at <<link "school">><<replace "#dealing">> <<set $deception ++>><<set $social ++>>I'd set up at lunch and my free periods in the mall. I had ready access to my locker -- but I would never leave anything there overnight. That was just asking for the administration to narc on me. <br><br> It was incredible at how fast I became known as a source at the school and how readily the kids took me up on the offer. There was a reason our school had a rep name of Triple A (Alcoholics, Abortions and Addicts) and it returned dividends for me. <br><br> I took a special glee when Ava hit me up for some goods for her weekend party. I wasn't invited, she made that eminently clear, but she still had to talk to me to [[get her goods|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <br> Keep the risk low with known quantities, my <<link "friends">><<replace "#dealing">> <<set $Risky -->><<set $discipline ++>>Product moved slowly, but my friends were happy to have a personal, always available source. And I was happy to have safe, easy sales. They came to me. I didn't need to advertise. <br><br> But I did have to shut Ethan down a couple times when he got too big for his britches. He started flapping his mouth and I had to remind him who was on the other end of my supply -- and upsetting Amari was not a healthy proposition. <br><br> And then, even set straight, he tried bring me more clients -- which I happy to receive -- until he expected a cut. Luckily, he valued his own access and our friendship enough to let my firm and immediate "No" [[stand|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'volunteer'>> When I came to the shelter, I felt the most actualized out of all my 'good works'. I could affect change one on one, I could see its effects, I could interact with the people who were hurting, who I was helping. <br><br> It certainly wasn't easy, and I could see why people in their situation stayed in their situation. Where were the resources? I certainly wasn't trained, and neither were the people who were being paid -- very little -- to do the work to help, protect, and assist people who were in the most need. <br><br> Some were there because life dealt them the worst hand: families, young people, the elderly. Some were there because of what they had gotten involved in: alcohol and drugs. Some were there because society didn't know what else to do with them: the mentally ill. <br><br> And here we were, just...people...trying to be everything to everyone. The most profound and affecting moment at my time in the shelter -- it sincerely changed me -- was with: <br><br> <div id ="shelter"> A <<link "young mother">><<replace "#shelter">> <<set $Excitable -->><<set $investigation ++>>She came in one weekend with her son, smiling broadly as I brought them to a cot and explained the rules and expectations of our space. <br><br> She assented without a second thought, seemingly overjoyed at what little we had to offer. My heart swelled as I walked away, remarking to myself at how some great deeds are easily done. <br><br> Throughout the rest of the afternoon, while I was seeing to other occupants, logging entry and supplying our closets, something nagged in the back of my brain. And what really set me off is that, for all I've seen and experienced, I was able to move on well enough. Here, I couldn't. <br><br> So, I paid closer attention and that's when I noticed what was triggering me. The son. His reactions, his behavior. So, I waited until she had gone to the bathroom and I spent a few moments with him. <br><br> "Hey there, buddy." He wasn't talkative. Not surprising. "Everything okay?" He shook his head. "Why. What's wrong?" Nothing. Tears appearing in his eyes. "I'm here to help you. Nothing's scary here. Do I look scary?" He laughed, wiping his eyes and shaking his head. <br><br> "Dad hits Mommy." It came out just in time. She returned and I had more than enough information. I was able to get her extra time with us, special counseling and I learned her story. <br><br> It maddened me that men were like this, and it reiterated how much more circumspect I needed to be in my own life. She was a person living a life like me and here [[she was|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <br> A <<link "runaway">><<replace "#shelter">> <<set $Stable -->><<set $discipline ++>>He wasn't much younger than me, which hurt my heart. He had a strange, high-strung energy that keyed me in on him. Him being my contemporary made me want to be //the// one to help. <br><br> So, I tried. "Hey. My name's <<print $Name>>." Smiling as I dropped a blanket on his cot. <br><br> The suddenness was breathtaking. His eyes met mine and there was a deadness. And that deadness snapped -- animalistic rage. I was on the ground, the concrete impact on the back of my head and ass nothing compared to the fear of what he would do to me. He was ontop of me, hands around my throat and pinning me easily. <br><br> I felt so weak, so scared. Like prey. <br><br> Thankfully he was pulled from me by a few of our bigger aides, I was given the care to the bruises I sustained, and I was kept apart from him. <br><br> They were about to turn him out when I stepped in, insisting it was simply mental illness and not his fault. I found him an appropriate, nearby alternative and he was brought there. But fuck. We're animals, [[deep down|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <br> <<link "Joel">>, who'd been displaced longer than I'd been alive<<replace "#shelter">> <<set $learning ++>><<set $Risky -->>He was such a gentle soul. He was our 'regular' if you could call it that. If it were a happy thing. <br><br> "Here ya go, Joel." I patted his cot, safe in the corner. <br><br> "You're new here, aren't you..." He shook his head, smiled and patted where I had patted while he sat, "Here." A couple glances let me know I was safe, so I sat. <br><br> He spent the whole afternoon telling me his story. How he had been wealthy, how it had been stolen out from under him by his partner, and then the remainder by his family. And then what he was left with by his landlord. And then his friends and family were nowhere to be found. And that was twenty years ago. <br><br> The details were particular enough and not forced that I believed him. And vetting it with the other aides -- it was a true story. His resilience astounded me. It was a perfect warning about what people can do to you and how irreparably it can affect [[your life|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'sporty'>> Spring had sprung and meant that we were breaking out the mitts and dyke comments. It felt good to get outside again and there were some familiar faces from the soccer squad whereas most of Track and Field transitioned into the Spring outdoor season. <br><br> Barkewitcz stood in the dugout, or leaning forward on the side-line fence. He was butch-ier than any of us, that's for sure. And there were some weird stories and rumors about why he was our Coach. But nothing ever seemed really off to me -- even if he had come Football and not Baseball. He understood the game anyway. <br><br> My place was <div id = "soft"> <<link "on the mound">><<replace "#soft">> <<set $coordination ++>><<set $discipline ++>><<set $athletics ++>>My shoulder ached and I usually had ice taped around it throughout the week, but the feeling of taking down a girl one-on-one, a battle of will and skill? Incomparable. <br><br> And it was certainly more involved and active than most other positions around the field. Barky and I had our own, private language and it felt special to have time aside from the others as they were running drills to go over the strengths and weaknesses of our upcoming opponents. <br><br> But it also meant most of the responsibility was on me. Breathing in, squaring up, breathing out. Staring down a batter in a ponytail and... <<if $coordination + $athletics + $discipline + $perception + $Stable + $deception - $Excitable gte 10>> Strike! "<<shake 3s>>Yer<</shake>>...out!" <br><br> I jumped up and down, closing out another win with my golden gun of a right arm. There was a pile-up on the mound as I was doused in affection and excitement. It was wins like this that made a likely shoulder blow-out [[worth it|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> Crack! My head spun as the ball whistled up and over me. I had miscalculated and the batter was on her game -- going...going...shit. <br><br> That brought a runner home and killed my focus. We lost the game and Barky was cursing and kicking the fence. I'd need to avoid him [[after the game|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, <<link " behind home plate">><<replace "#soft">> <<set $perception ++>><<set $coordination ++>><<set $Stable ++>> My quads and ass got workout. Squatting was killer on my knees -- up and down, up and down -- but there was something exciting about being right behind an opponent, like I could strike at any time, and sending little messages to our killer on the mound. Together, we'd take her out. <br><br> Catcher was a critically undervalued and important position, like a mini-coach that made the choices of plays. And nearly every pitch, I was engaged, whether it was running, sprinting or just tossing the ball back. <br><br> There was also something immensely satisfying of the impact in my mitt, the sound of the leather reacting to the pitch, but mostly that it had gotten past her...whether or not it was in the zone. And here came another one. Flashed the sign for a curve and... <<if $coordination + $discipline + $perception + $Stable - $Excitable gte 8>>Perfect spin, somehow my brain tracked the quick pitch, and then it was in my mitt. Strike! "<<shake 3s>>Yer<</shake>>...out!" <br><br> I tore off my mask, dropped my mitt in the dust and charged the mound, grasping my counterpart in a bear hug as I lifted her off the ground, laughing. Man, it was moments like this that made the pain in my joints [[worth it|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> A fastball? Shit. My mitt was off-center and while it got past the batter, it bounced off my chest plate and ricocheted. And the runner was off as I scrambled for the ball. Our fielders reacted quickly, but not quickly enough. By the time I had gotten things under control, the runner came home and ended up being the critical score. [[My bad|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "left field">><<replace "#soft">> <<set $Confident -->><<set $perception ++>><<set $Risky -->>It was the quietest place in the field, which was nice. There wasn't as much responsibility for me and I was keen on that. It gave me time to contemplate the world and figure out what I was going to do when the game wrapped up. <br><br> I wondered if Barky put me out here because of talent or personal dislike. It always meant I was the last one off the field and he grunted about me being slow as I swung out the gate. <br><br> But sometimes, I did make a difference... <<if $perception + $athletics + $coordination + $Stable - $Excitable + $Risky>> Crack! The ball was careening my way. Was the batter a lefty? Didn't matter now. I swung into action, triangulating and running simultaneously. Mitt up, mitt up. Shit the lights were in my eyes. I was going to have to leap for it... <br><br> I crashed into the ground, face-full of dirt and freshly cut grass. Sputtering I tried to get up quickly: time was of the essence. Where was the...oh. I caught it. The girls were squealing and running out to me as I had actually closed out the game as a W for us. Barky didn't have words for me [[that night|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> Crack! The ball was careening my way. Was the batter a lefty? Didn't matter now. I swung into action, triangulating and running simultaneously. Mitt up, mitt up. Shit the lights were in my eyes. I was going to have to leap for it... <br><br> I crashed into the ground, face-full of dirt and freshly cut grass. Sputtering I tried to get up quickly: time was of the essence. Where was the...//shit//. I had missed it my inches. Dirty and frazzled, I grabbed for the ball and missed, and again. The errors mounted as their runners came home. Barky had more than enough words for me [[that night|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</if>> /*<<if $hsv == 'tailgate'>> <</if>>*/ <<if $hsv == 'outdoors'>> SKINNY DIPPING <div id =""><<link "">><<replace "#">><<set $>><<set $>><</replace>><</link>> <<link "">><<replace "#">><<set $>><<set $>><</replace>><</link>> <<link "">><<replace "#">><<set $>><<set $>><</replace>><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'piano'>> RECITAL <div id =""><<link "">><<replace "#">><<set $>><<set $>><</replace>><</link>> <<link "">><<replace "#">><<set $>><<set $>><</replace>><</link>> <<link "">><<replace "#">><<set $>><<set $>><</replace>><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'read'>> We had our final Classics paper due and I had finished early, so rather than attend the class that night, I just swung by the college straight after school to drop it off and finally have some time to myself. <br><br> It was a low-point in activity, just a random person wandering the hall, janitorial staff stocking the restrooms. I probably looked more like someone's lost kid, rather than a student with one of the highest GPAs in the building. <br><br> I smiled to myself as I pushed into the empty auditorium and nearly jumped when a voice called out, "Good mood, <<print $Name>>?" <br><br> "Jeez, Dillon. You'd have given someone else a heart attack. Where...where are you?" Stepping down the aisles with my head on a swivel, I searched for our Teacher's Assistant. Then I caught a flash of a hand waving to me from the projector room. <br><br> With a quick little skip up the steps, I spun around the doorframe, "Whatcha doin' in here? Couldn't have said hi when I literally walked in..right there?" The door behind me had barely come to a halt from when I had arrived. <br><br> He shrugged and leaned back in the squeaking old chair, his feet up, "Was busy watching YouTube. World Chess Championship is serious business." <br><br> I hopped up, sitting on the desk, an arm lightly curled around his beat-up New Balances, dropping my paper in front of him. "Early submission, extra credit, right?" <br><br> "Like you need it. So skipping the final class huh?" I nodded, "What're you going to get up to instead?" <br><br> "//Not// chess. Dork." He shrugged, his eyes instinctively checking my legs as they dangled. <br><br> "Well, it's the Prof tonight, not me. So I can leave this for him and we can celebrate together instead." I had to admire his confidence. <br><br> <div id = "lastnight"> <<link "Chilling with my TA">><<replace "#lastnight">> <<set $Risky ++>><<set $Suggestible ++>>"Sure, whatcha wanna do?" The response was quick and he definitely appreciated the lack of consideration. His feet dropped back to the floor, hand tucking the phone into his pocket. <br><br> "Let's get an early start, what'd'ya say." He collected the paper from in front of him, making the decision for us as we headed out of the projector room. With a lazy flourish, he dropped my final on the lectern and gave me a little bump and smile, "Let's get outta here." <br><br> It wasn't too surprising that he wanted to get off campus, lest rumors start or he risk his career. <br><br> Safely sequestered in his small one-bedroom apartment we began on his couch with some Drunk History and as the afternoon waned, we ordered in Mediterranean and began the epic that is Gladiator. <br><br> My late nights from school, a general lack of paying attention at what my schedule really was, plus my diligence kept me in the clear when I wasn't home by the time everyone went to bed. <br><br> They were content enough to see me at the breakfast table [[in the morning|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>...better than hang with the Boys? <<link "Nah">><<replace "#lastnight">> <<set $discipline ++>><<set $Suggestible -->>"Actually, I already made plans...sorry." I gave him a flat smile, raised eyebrows like I truly felt bad for the excuse. <br><br> He nodded, shrugged and looked back to the black and white squares on his phone, "Course. No worries. I'll make sure to get your assignment submitted." <br><br> The ice-out was obvious and it had the desired effect on me, emotionally, but it wasn't the first time a guy had tried that on me. I weighed the feeling against my feelings, plus the fact I wouldn't have to see him again. <br><br> "Thanks. Been a fun class!" sliding off the desk and turning to head out. <br><br> "Have fun tonight." A slight peek over my shoulder I caught him eyeing me as I left. Yep. It had been a tactic and I had crushed his hopes. <br><br> I just hoped he didn't try and get back at me by not turning in [[my final|HS000 - Testing]]. <</replace>><</link>>, I'd barely seen them in months -- plus TA-student stuff was creepy. </div> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'job'>> Extra cash kinda burns a hole in your pocket, doesn't it? Well, better to have and use it than not have it. Society certainly didn't emphasize saving and investment at my age -- thinking about retirement? I wasn't ever gonna die, let alone get old. So it was time to make it rain. <br><br> And I spent my hard-earned bills on: <br><br> [[Clothes|HS000 - Testing][$social ++; $Sophisticated ++]], I wanted to impress my classmates and be a trendsetter.<br> [[Classes|HS000 - Testing][$athletics ++; $coordination ++; $Bodytraits.push("fit")]] at the gym. Pilates, Yoga, HIIT, I got fit.<br> [[Tutoring|HS000 - Testing][$learning ++; $discipline ++]] and practice tests, the extra reading assignments, I devoured it all.<br> A [[Burner Phone|HS000 - Testing][$deception ++; $wiles ++; $Risky ++; $Inven.push("Burner")]] so that I could do what I wanted when I wanted with who I wanted.<br> New [[game releases and equipment|HS000 - Testing][$perception ++; $coordination ++]] because I had to keep my gaming edge. <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'gym'>> <<set $performance ++>> The meets came and went. One time they accidentally placed me in a younger section, which was far more competitive than my 'geriatric' status, so it was my worst result of the season. <br><br> Still, Coach Vovk clearly admired what he called "chutzpah" and me finishing out the competitions. I think he appreciated that while I didn't have designs on collegiate or Olympic greatness, I was there to push my own limits for what they were. <<if $gymscore gte 10>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>><<set $athletics ++>><<else>><<run $Bodytraits.push("fit")>> <br><br> And damn, if it wasn't worth it. Beyond what I learned, I was now a lean machine. My body was crazy tight, waist narrow, and ass had that pertness that only refined muscle [[could give|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <<else>> <br><br> If I had worked harder, I probably would have seen better results, but I wasn't chasing after beams and rings in my [[future|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'cheer'>> <<if $makeit gte 7>> <<set $Memories.push("Cheerleader", "CheerCaptain")>>The results are posted on the school website over the weekend. I have no idea how many names were on the list because the first entry: <<print $Name>>. I was a *captain*. I screamed, crying into my phone, and <<print $FFName>> had to check on me. Consoling turned to celebrating: no one my year had ever made Captain. <br><br> Cheerleading doubtless became a big part of my life, with practice, summer camp, pep rallies and cheering at games with stands full of screaming fans. It ate up a lot of my free time.<<set $dancing ++>><<set $social += 2>><<set $discipline ++>><<set $coordination ++>><<set $athletics ++>> <br><br> My friends saw me almost never, but I really wanted to be a cheerleader. In any event, soon much of our remaining time was eaten up, as school [[came knocking|HS000 - Testing]]. <<elseif $makeit gt 5>> <<set $Memories.push("Cheerleader")>>The results are posted on the school website over the weekend. About 50 names are on the list...including <<print $Name>>. I made the *main* squad! <br><br> Cheerleading became a big part of my life, with practice, summer camp, pep rallies and cheering at games with stands full of screaming fans. It ate up a lot of my free time.<<set $dancing ++>><<set $social ++>><<set $discipline ++>><<set $coordination ++>><<set $athletics ++>> <br><br> My friends saw me almost never, but I really wanted to be a cheerleader. In any event, soon much of our remaining time was eaten up, as school [[came knocking|HS000 - Testing]]. <<elseif $makeit gt 3>> <<set $Memories.push("Cheerleader")>>The results are posted on the school website over the weekend. About 50 names are on the list...no, not me...not me...scanning, and there, finally, <<print $Name>>. I barely squeaked onto the backup squad. <br><br> Cheerleading became a big part of my life, with practice, summer camp, pep rallies and cheering at games with stands full of screaming fans. It ate up a lot of my time. I didn't see much time actually cheering, but I practiced and showed up all the same.<<set $dancing ++>><<set $discipline ++>><<set $athletics ++>> <br><br> My friends saw me almost never, but I really wanted to be a cheerleader. In any event, soon much of our remaining time was eaten up, as school [[came knocking|HS000 - Testing]]. <<else>> <<set $social -->>The results were posted on the school website over the weekend. About 50 names were on the list...but mine wasn't one of them. I didn't make the squad! Not even the backup squad. <br><br> I told my friends that I didn't really want to be a cheerleader anyway. <br> Time was finite and school [[came knocking|HS000 - Testing]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>><<nobr>><<silently>><<set $sexcount = false>><<undress>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">><</silently>><</nobr>> And that little snippet, vignette even, was just a highlight of my experience as I was growing up. My life as it was. When I was normal. Yet, no matter what 'average' things I was doing, life would come knocking: school started to matter. Like, your ''entire'' life depends on everything you do from this point onward. Testing, Papers, GPA, Extracurriculars. Each of them were a massive component into what school you could get into. Would you be a success or a failure? And where you went to school spoke to how you'd do in life and you'd do in life spoke to...on and on. It was exhausting. The pressure mounted from the teachers, at home, the energy of my peers shifted to literally quizzing each other and actual study sessions. The real question was, what [[mattered to me|HS001 - StoryArc]] at that point in my life.<<nobr>> <<set $TestScore = $learning>> <<set $HSBC = ($HSBC + $Suggestible + $Easy + $Risky + $MaleAttention + $Excitable + $MaleReaction - $Sophisticated - $Confident - $Stable)>> <<if $schoolinterest == "boys">><<set $HSBC = $HSBC + $Attractiveness>><</if>> <<if $activity == "none">><<set $wiles ++>><<set $investigation ++>><<set $deception ++>><</if>> <<dialog 'Story Arcs' 'popup'>>Some vignettes are larger and form miniature story arcs, and -- rather than cultivating the Bonzai tree of her skills and personality -- are more centered on achievement and testing the Claire that has reached this point of her story. What can she achieve? Will she succeed? What goalposts will be solidified in her memory?<</dialog>> <br><br> And while all that craziness was going on, I tried to maintain some semblance of normalcy. How could the things //I// wanted to do and who I wanted to __be__ mesh in some way, shape or form alongside these crazy-high demands at school? <br><br> What was I going to do with my 'free time' that maybe would align with a kicker on a college application...or help me out in the scheme of life? Or at least that I could //sell// as being the reason why I did what I did. <br><br> <<if $Clique == "Prude">> ...my pastor had asked that everyone consider devoting time and energy towards the community, as He did. <br><br> So, of course, I considered my obligations to my college chances [[alongside God|HS002 - Volunteer]] <br><br><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Rebel">> ...as we came to the end of the school year, all the great music venues were opening up. <br><br> So, of course, I ditched everything else in [[lieu of art|HS002 - Music]]. <br><br><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Alpha">> ..the impending end of the year meant Prom, and that took //effort//. <br><br> So, of course, I needed to be [[Prom Queen|HS002 - PromQ]]. <br><br><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Nerd">> ...there was the opportunity to see our idols. In. Person. <br><br> So, of course, I needed to go to [[TwitchCon|HS002 - Twitch]]. <br><br><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Sports">> ...the end of the year meant capstone competitions that made or broke you. <br><br> So, of course, I focused on the other thing colleges cared about: [[sports|HS002 - Competition]]. <br><br><</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 4>> ...I had just been in the CVS when I had been handed a card and it looked legit and he didn't seem to have ulterior motives. <br><br> I had gotten...[[scouted|HS002 - CastingHS]]?<br><br> <</if>> ...with such a high bar to meet, grades were of the utmost importance. <br><br> So, of course, [[I studied|HS002 - Studies]].<</nobr>><<nobr>><<set $Vol = $discipline>> <<if $freetime == "volunteer" && $hsv == "volunteer">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $freetime == ("vandal", "gang", "partier", "club")>><<set $Vol -->><</if>> <<if $hsv == ("vandal", "gang", "partier", "club")>><<set $Vol -->><</if>> <<if $freetime == ("helper", "church", "volunteer")>><<set $Vol ++>><</if>> <<if $hsv == ("helper", "church", "volunteer")>><<set $Vol ++>><</if>> <<set _givingchoice = new Map([["nothing, we didn't believe in it", -1], ["even though we didn't have anything to give", 1]])>> <<if $wealth gt 2>><<run _givingchoice.set("what we could afford", 0)>><</if>> <<if $wealth gt 3>><<run _givingchoice.set("generously", 2)>><</if>> <<if $wealth gt 4>><<run _givingchoice.set("probably as a way to show off, but we gave", 3)>><</if>><</nobr>> Reverend Hull was an incredibly inspiring figure. The way he spoke came with a conviction that was at once inspired from Above, while also being grounded and human. His eyes were kind. His handshake firm, but soft. I remember sitting in the pews and just being enrapt during his homilies. Other children were scribbling on the donation envelopes or shuffled off to day care...not me. As a family, when that collection plate cycled around, we gave <<cycle "_giving" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _givingchoice>><</cycle>>. As time passed, there were chances to be closer to Him, to him, and to the church and I leapt at the opportunity. <div id="church">We had a prestigious, friendly and talented <<link "choir">><<replace "#church">><<set $Vol = $Vol + _giving>>No audition was necessary, just warm smiles and handshakes of welcome, though I could tell there was posturing and curiosity from the moment I approached. "And what section should you be in?" <<if $spoiled == true>>The soloists? No, I couldn't say that. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>>"Alto." A surprised smirk, but speaking reassured him how true it was. "Alto it is! We're certainly in need. Let's get you some [[music|HS002 - Choir]]."<<else>>"Girl part?" He chuckled, "I'm sure soprano will be fine. Let's get you some [[music|HS002 - Choir]]."<</if>><<else>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>>"Alto." A surprised smirk, but speaking reassured him how true it was. "Alto it is! We're certainly in need. Let's get you some [[music|HS002 - Choir]]."<<else>>"Girl part?" He chuckled, "I'm sure soprano will be fine. Let's get you some [[music|HS002 - Choir]]."<</if>><</if>><</replace>><</link>> Work in the <<link "soup kitchen">><<replace "#church">><<set $Vol = $Vol + _giving>>The most Christ-like thing around was getting my hands dirty and actually //helping//. I showed up weekly to the soup kitchen, providing meals and aid to the families and displaced in our area. It wasn't easy work, but that made it felt more ''right''. Occasionally, clergy and staff from the church attended and ladled, or met with the less fortunate, but mostly it was me with a bunch of elderly or middle-aged [[ladies|HS002 - Soup]].<</replace>><</link>> The church had changed over time, and it leant the opportunity to work closely with the clergy as an <<link "altar girl">><<replace "#church">><<set $Vol = $Vol + _giving>>Show up //early// before mass. Stay late and clean up. Lead in the processional and out the recessional. But there was also a ton of surprisingly administrative tasks and duties to support the Reverend and the clergy. I didn't mind, it was closer to understanding them and their Work than carrying some object full of metaphor and portent. And it [[humanized them|HS002 - AltarGirl]].<</replace>><</link>></div><<set _solo = 0>> <<nobr>> We rehearsed every Tuesday and Thursday night and performed at each service on Sunday. It was a big time suck, but it was like a little family within a bigger family. I was, by far, the youngest person in the group. A few young professionals -- who were always talking about their community theatre productions -- were the closest thing I had to contemporaries and they still had ten or so years on me. Well, and Ava. She technically was older than me as well, but the friction between us from school bled into this space as well and I tried to ignore her presence. <br><br> Gladys, an...octogenarian? led the group rehearsals and conducted for us until it came time for the Sunday singing. <br><br> "Alright," her crinkly voice was infectious -- I couldn't help but smile each time she opened her mouth, "So, for Easter services we've got some of our most important pieces of the year. Obviously. And those pieces require a soloist. They're not easy, but if you'd like a shot, I'll hold auditions after today's rehearsal." <br><br> <<if $spoiled == true || $Excitable gt 1>>My heart jumped -- I //had// to get that part.<<else>>Oh, that's fun! I began to consider if it was worth it, if I was good enough, if I wanted the part.<</if>> <br><br> You could feel the ripple of anticipation through the group. The rehearsal wasn't as useful as they usually were, "Okay, okay, I can tell you all are chomping. Let's close out early, __take__ a ''break'', and then get to the auditions." <br><br> Some left, eager to have a shorter rehearsal and win some time back in their day. <br><br> <div id="soloist"> I looked at the remaining contenders and steeled myself for <<link "competition">><<replace "#soloist">> A deep breath. I stepped forward and squared up, "Easy now, dear. This isn't a fight. Relax the knees -- you can sight read?" I gave a shrug, based on what I saw, I thought I could do it. "Henry, lead her in..." <br><br> <div id="sing"> The piano began and I <<link "sang">><<replace "#sing">> <<if $performance gt 1>><<set _solo ++>>It wasn't only about the singing, but presenting the story and ensuring people heard the words. The music just accentuated the tale I was telling.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Confident gt 2>><<set _solo ++>>Being alone meant it was even more important to had //presence//, to stand out from the crowd.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>><<set _solo ++>>All the rest? I let the uniqueness of my voice add color and depth to the notes.<br><br><</if>> And then we had to wait a //week// for the <<link "results" "HS002 - Choir2">><<if _solo gt 1>><<set $soloist = true>><</if>><</link>>. <</replace>><</link>> and considered <<link "going home">><<replace "#soloist">> <<if $spoiled == true || $Excitable gt 1>> Turning around, I took one step towards the door but then something inside got the better of me -- I auditioned. <br><br> A deep breath. I stepped forward and squared up, "Easy now, dear. This isn't a fight. Relax the knees -- you can sight read?" I gave a shrug, based on what I saw, I thought I could do it. "Henry, lead her in..." <br><br> The piano began and I <<link "sang">><<replace "#soloist">> <<if $performance gt 1>><<set _solo ++>>It wasn't only about the singing, but presenting the story and ensuring people heard the words. The music just accentuated the tale I was telling.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Confident gt 2>><<set _solo ++>>Being alone meant it was even more important to had //presence//, to stand out from the crowd.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>><<set _solo ++>>All the rest? I let the uniqueness of my voice add color and depth to the notes.<br><br><</if>> And then we had to wait a //week// for the <<link "results" "HS002 - Choir2">><<if _solo gt 1>><<set $soloist = true>><</if>><</link>>. <</replace>><</link>>. <<else>> Being new to the group, I was sure tenure mattered in selection, plus I wasn't //that// certain of my pipes. So, I headed [[home|HS002 - Choir2]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</replace>><</link>>. </div> <</nobr>><<if $soloist == true>><<set $Memories.push("Easter Service Soloist")>><<set $Vol += 4>><<set $Confident ++>><<set $performance ++>>Wow. To be leading the group -- the congregation on the most important of days. It floored me. It also didn't make Ava very happy. She was the closest competitor and likely would have been the soloist if it were not for me. My notes floated as I sang. It felt right to be up there. And she eventually did come around and congratulate me. As much as it probably hurt her. Gladys was such a character, jiving her creaky hips to the beat, moving her arthritic hands in the air to guide the group. Part of me wished she was the conductor. And she was singing along with us like the best of them. Crazy enough, she was also open to criticism that she took notes as well as she gave them. We continued to practice, becoming a fine-tuned machine under Glady's guidance. We paired off into part groupings to help us hold our singing lines. We worked sections repeatedly to ensure our breathing was in unison and our cut-offs were clean. I learned a lot from the people around me who'd been singing like this in some cases for decades. There was knowledge there and I soaked it up. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>><<set $performance ++>>The person I was before joining wasn't the same singer and performer as the person I was now.<<else>><<run $Bodytraits.push("voice")>>The practice and consistent singing really helped me understand where my voice sat, the colors and flavors that I had. And so much of it was breathing, weirdly enough. Support with the breath. Support.<</if>> Before I knew it, Gladys announced, "That's it, a wrap. You're going to be great out there tomorrow." Tomorrow? [[It was Easter|HS002 - Election]]. <<else>>It was far easier to watch and listen to Ava as she alighted God's words to the rafters. The notes floated as she sang. She was the right soloist. <<if $spoiled == true>><<set $Confident -->>As much as that hurt me to say.<</if>><</if>> Gladys was such a character, jiving her creaky hips to the beat, moving her arthritic hands in the air to guide the group. Part of me wished she was the conductor. And she was singing along with us like the best of them. Crazy enough, she was also open to criticism that she took notes as well as she gave them. We continued to practice, becoming a fine-tuned machine under Glady's guidance. We paired off into part groupings to help us hold our singing lines. We worked sections repeatedly to ensure our breathing was in unison and our cut-offs were clean. I learned a lot from the people around me who'd been singing like this in some cases for decades. There was knowledge there and I soaked it up. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>><<set $performance ++>>The person I was before joining wasn't the same singer and performer as the person I was now.<<else>><<run $Bodytraits.push("voice")>>The practice and consistent singing really helped me understand where my voice sat, the colors and flavors that I had. And so much of it was breathing, weirdly enough. Support with the breath. Support.<</if>> Before I knew it, Gladys announced, "That's it, a wrap. You're going to be great out there tomorrow." Tomorrow? [[It was Easter|HS002 - Election]].Just another Sunday after Mass, leaving the church and heading nearby to the community center. And then I was waiting patiently in the stifling hot kitchen, ready with oven mitts to receive trays and vats and heft them over to the serving area. <<if $athletics gt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>And I was good at it. They meant it as a punishment or low-girl on the totem pole kind of hazing, but I could move the hefty things with relative ease -- my youth didn't hurt either. Some thought I was showing off -- throwing my age in their faces -- but most were just happy at having to do less work.<<elseif $athletics lt 0>><<set $Vol -->>But I was only able to help out with the lighter loads. I felt their glares and disapproval. Despite me just not being built and sized the way they were, they thought I was lazy. But after a couple incidents, even though I was low-girl on the totem pole, I didn't do much hefting.<<else>>And I was able to manage it, barely. Not really built or sized like the rest of these ladies, yet I was low on the totem pole, trudging back and forth and trying not to get burned.<</if>> "Alright, girls," came the call from the hall. Gladys was pulling the lock on the door and we'd soon be inundated. It was time to shift gears. <div id="kitchen">I enjoyed taking my place on the <<link "front lines">><<replace "#kitchen">>I departed the kitchen with a healthy sheen of sweat, wiping my brow and making myself as presentable as I could while wearing a hair net. There was a press at the door like something out of a zombie movie, bodies nearly running over Gladys to get to nourishment. She yelped and I called out, "Careful now! Enough for everyone. Extras if you walk!" <<if $social gt 2>><<set $Vol ++>>That worked. Eyes got wide and the swelling of humans slowed down, giving Gladys time to move her creaky hips out of the way. She nodded a thank you to me.<<else>>Something about the way I said it maybe? The frenzied force surged forward and Gladys went sprawling. A squawk and thud -- I really hope she didn't break a hip. Then all of the ladies were leaning up over their pans and yelling, trying to get the needy to hold their horses. They didn't, but it was a mad rush for those extras -- they insisted on them anyway.<</if>> Being on the front lines meant resisting the basic human needs and myriad personalities each with their own method of eking out a little bit more. Kindness, forcefulness, pain, but it was up to me to ensure that people at the end of the line weren't left without simply because desperation was desperation.<<if $wiles gt 0 || $Suggestible lt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>But I could give as well as I got, and I wasn't going to back down. A smile, an understanding nod, a kind word. Whereas the other ladies utilized their wisdom and grizzled nature to deny, I was able to employ youthful wonder, interest in me and who I was. By being unique, it gave me an edge. Being pretty didn't hurt either. I was one of the best keeping my [[food flowing|HS002 - Soup2]].<<else>>They were so hungry. I felt so bad for them. I don't think there was a day that I wasn't crying at some part of my shift. New faces and so much need. My food didn't last long, but the brightness I saw in those I did serve made me feel [[better|HS002 - Soup2]].<</if>><</replace>><</link>>, doling out dumplings. Usually, I was out amongst them, monitoring and seeing what <<link "extra aid">><<replace "#kitchen">>The ladies leaned into my energy (and better eyes) to maintain the floor. Desperate people did crazy things. But I also found it gave me an avenue to listen and hear. No one who walked through our doors was simply in need of a meal. It helped, but it wasn't a panacea. <<if $perception gt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>"I'm just so goddamned lonely..." my head snapped around. He was certainly displaced and his clothes were among the worst off I had seen in a while. He wasn't speaking to anyone in particular, but the tears streaming down his dirty cheeks told me it wasn't some concoction of his mind. Carefully, kindly, I sat down beside him. "I'm <<print $Name>>." He looked at me in disbelief, deep, dark eyes broadening as he took in my face. He wiped his nose on his sleeve, catching some of the food he had been eating as well. "Rog, the Dodger." "That's a fun name." "//Nick// name, cutie." Uh-oh. He was misreading this. <<if $Sophisticated + $Stable gte $Risky + $MaleReaction>><<set $Vol ++>>Turning on my best reserved and caring demeanor, shifting my weight in the seat beside him, even when he reached to take my hand I was prepared and extricated myself before it escalated too much. Walking that tight rope, I was able to convince him to meet with Hull after he was done eating. He just needed community and I'm sure [[the Reverend|HS002 - Soup2]] would have some ideas.<<else>>I tried to present as reserved as I could, but suddenly his hand was grasping mine and I tried to pull it free. He lost it, jumping up in his seat and screaming from the top of his lungs, "You ''hate'' me! You're like everyone else." Gladys, God save her soul, came by to help extricate me from the crazed man. They had to ask him to leave before he had finished eating, but at least I was safe, "Maybe keep away from the men, dear. You give them ideas." I nodded and kept a distance [[from then|HS002 - Soup2]] on out.<</if>> <<else>>There was a part of this that felt like a prison warden, and the way that many of them looked at me, I could tell that simply wandering the dining aisles gave them flashbacks. Even little me. <<if $performance gt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>Keeping that in mind, for we must walk in their shoes, I ensured that my demeanor was present, but available. I was there to guide and help, rather than detain and restrain. When I walked among them, they were more at ease, smiling more and fighting [[far less|HS002 - Soup2]].<<else>>And just walking like I was I think would set them off. There'd be a fight over food. Screaming and suddenly all our work was tossed on the floor. Between my stature and the age of the women, it took almost the full staff to break the altercation up. As I spent the evening cleaning up the mess, I decided to leave the monitoring to the [[experienced ones|HS002 - Soup2]].<</if>><</if>><</replace>><</link>> we could provide. I let the experienced ladies take the line, I moved <<link "into the back">><<replace "#kitchen">>It was a changing of the guards, Crocs and sandals shuffling past me, a stained apron was doffed and tossed into my waiting arms. I tied it on and stepped in, like a benchwarmer ready to take over for the All Star. <<if $perception gt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>Surveying the scene, I could tell what needed to come off the burners, what stage the dishes were in, and what was needing to be prepped. I got to work.<<else>>I jumped in with what was in front of me, basting some gristly meat. I had to fight back a curse or two when I realized that I had missed something about to burn, and wasn't ready with round two -- some prep had been left unfinished. I scrambled, doing the best I could.<</if>> It was like a real-life game of Overcooked. The kitchen wasn't moving around, but it certainly felt like it. I had to be line cook, sous and expediter all in one.<<if $coordination gt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>Somehow, I managed it with aplomb. Skidding on the greasy floor, I used the momentum to my benefit, pulling a Kramer as I slammed through the swinging door and refreshed the ladies. Then I was back in, switching burners, transitioning dishes and keeping all the plates [[spinning|HS002 - Soup2]].<<else>>It was maddening, grabbing a hot pan and scrambling to make it to the ladies before that first rush left them attacked by ravenous people. The greasy floor was unexpected and I skidded, not through the swinging door but against the wall beside it. <<shake 2s>>''Thud''<</shake>> I tumbled, the tray spilled and the floor greeted me, sticky, dirty and hard. Dazed, I hissed as my hand accidentally went right into steaming food. I hadn't spilled it on me, thankfully, but the collision had done its work. I don't think I made a sound that could have been heard over the din outside, but one of the ladies checked on me -- in a way -- door swinging wildly and smacking me square in the ass as she barrelled in. "<<print $Name>>! We're out, where's out...where's...OH! Are you okay, dear?" I was being pulled up off the grimy floor, laughing it off with her as she sat me down. Not an auspicious day. Some wasted food and the ladies had to cover for me, but it all turned out [[okay|HS002 - Soup2]].<</if>><</replace>><</link>> to make sure the pots stayed plentiful.</div>I got into my rhythm, the regulars got to know me by name and even the ladies got used to having me around. It was nice, a way to spend the final hours of the weekend that felt useful. Easter rolled around and the longer service didn't deter Deacon Stern from heading straight over, in his robes, to visit and commune with the needy. One woman broke down in tears, clutching her child to her chest at the mere sight of his approach. He sat down next to her, sliding an arm around them both. <div id = "verse1"> <<link "John 3:16">><<replace "#verse1">> "Yes, my dear." Stern nodded to me as he pet the woman's head, patting beside him as well instructing me to sit. "But, while we all shall have eternal life, I think it is anxiety, instead that wracks our company." Swing and a miss. But I had gotten a seat at the right hand of the Deacon. That meant something. "Come with me." Rising up from the bench and leaving the woman relieved. Just a touch, just his presence had set her at ease. "Bless you, child." And then he turned to me, "You...are new here." I nodded, "<<print $Name>>" He nodded again, sagely. "What do you see here? Weekly, you see it, so I trust you." He made a gesture across the community center. <div id = "verse2"> <<link "Tired, hungry">><<replace "#verse2">> "2 Corinthians 5:7" The words had barely left his mouth when I sighed. "Faith...not sight." "Not sight." He smiled. "But you bring them faith every week. And that is good. Thank you for what you do. It is rare in someone your age." And with that, he was gone. "He never talks to me..." Gladys chuckled with that crinkly voice. I squeezed the flab of her upper arm. "Thank you for [[saying so|HS002 - Election]]." <</replace>><</link>> people who shouldn't be subjected to this. <<link "Renewed spirit">><<replace "#verse2">> <<set $Vol ++>>"Exactly. For we live by //faith//, not by sight." "2 Corinthians 5:7" "You know your verses well." I blushed. "You bring them that renewal, weekly. And that is good. Thank you for what you do. It is rare in someone your age." And with that, he was gone. "He never talks to me..." Gladys chuckled with that crinkly voice. I squeezed the flab of her upper arm. "Thank you for [[saying so|HS002 - Election]]." <</replace>><</link>>, ready to try again. </div> <</replace>><</link>> <<link "Peter 5:7">><<replace "#verse1">> <<set $Vol ++>>"Yes. We should cast aside our anxiety to Him." He patted the seat beside him with a sideways smile, his focus on petting the woman curled up against him. I had gotten a seat at the right hand of the Deacon. That meant something. "Come with me." Rising up from the bench and leaving the woman relieved. Just a touch, just his presence had set her at ease. "Bless you, child." And then he turned to me, "You...are new here." I nodded, "<<print $Name>>" He nodded again, sagely. "What do you see here? Weekly, you see it, so I trust you." He made a gesture across the community center. <div id = "verse2"> <<link "Tired, hungry">><<replace "#verse2">> "2 Corinthians 5:7" The words had barely left his mouth when I sighed. "Faith...not sight." "Not sight." He smiled. "But you bring them faith every week. And that is good. Thank you for what you do. It is rare in someone your age." And with that, he was gone. "He never talks to me..." Gladys chuckled with that crinkly voice. I squeezed the flab of her upper arm. "Thank you for [[saying so|HS002 - Election]]." <</replace>><</link>> people who shouldn't be subjected to this. <<link "Renewed spirit">><<replace "#verse2">> <<set $Vol ++>>"Exactly. For we live by //faith//, not by sight." "2 Corinthians 5:7" "You know your verses well." I blushed. "You bring them that renewal, weekly. And that is good. Thank you for what you do. It is rare in someone your age." And with that, he was gone. "He never talks to me..." Gladys chuckled with that crinkly voice. I squeezed the flab of her upper arm. "Thank you for [[saying so|HS002 - Election]]." <</replace>><</link>>, ready to try again. </div> <</replace>><</link>> </div>Easter. When every person who held any bit of religiousness in their soul came for services. It was a long service, but it was a beautiful service. <<if visited("HS002 - AltarGirl")>>We were in full regalia, walking down the aisle, the organ leading us in. I processed behind Dylan, smiled at <<print $DName>> who had joined us for the services today, and continued forward to my spot up on the dais. The pews felt fuller today, lights felt brighter, the chorus of voices more on key. Reverend Hull began with the Service of Light. There was something calming and portentous knowing what was up next. That the words had been said so many times, and heard so many times from this very man. There wasn't the improvisation and and unknown of what we'd be learning as if this were a normal service. The choir sang, led by Ava -- our beautiful soloist whose notes floated on the pregnant air. I wondered on resurrection, both metaphorical and literal. I wondered on myself as I knelt for the blessing -- would we all be resurrected? Would we need it? And then I was woken from my reverie. <<elseif visited("Choir")>>Everyone was in full regalia, walking down the aisle, the organ leading us in. The pews felt fuller today, lights felt brighter, the chorus of voices more on key. Reverend Hull began with the Service of Light. There was something calming and portentous knowing what was up next. That the words had been said so many times, and heard so many times from this very man. There wasn't the improvisation and and unknown of what we'd be learning as if this were a normal service. We sang with an energy and connectedness that we hadn't had in any of our rehearsals. <<if $soloist == true>>And then came the central pieces. I stepped forward and opened my throat, my notes floated on the pregnant air. I saw tears in the eyes of quite a few of our congregation -- touched.<<else>>And then came the central pieces, led by Ava, whose notes floated on the pregnant air. She did it beautifully.<</if>> I wondered on resurrection, both metaphorical and literal. I wondered on myself as I knelt for the blessing -- would we all be resurrected? Would we need it? And then I was woken from my reverie. <<else>>Everyone was in full regalia, walking down the aisle, the organ leading us in. The pews felt fuller today, lights felt brighter, the chorus of voices more on key. Reverend Hull began with the Service of Light. There was something calming and portentous knowing what was up next. That the words had been said so many times, and heard so many times from this very man. There wasn't the improvisation and and unknown of what we'd be learning as if this were a normal service. The choir sang, led by Ava -- our beautiful soloist whose notes floated on the pregnant air. I wondered on resurrection, both metaphorical and literal. I wondered on myself as I knelt for the blessing -- would we all be resurrected? Would we need it? And then I was woken from my reverie.<</if>> The structured passages and rites came to a close and Hull began his touch, his epilogue on the ritual of the day. "And so, I believe it is right to bring forth one of us who has most embodied His nature this past year. In service of this body, His glory, and our community. I ask that <<if $Vol gte 10>><<print $Name>> come forward." I was stunned, nearly fell out of the pew as it registered. I was surrounded by smiles and suddenly found myself moving up the aisle -- had I walked? Had I been carried? Is this ecstasy? "Thank you for all you have done, child, you truly embody Christ and you make us all stronger in the knowing of Him through you." Wow. I had been given the Faith and Service Award.<<set $Memories.push("Won Faith and Service Award")>> What a wonderful and overwhelming Easter. This year would be one for [[the ages|HS002 - PromDress]]. <<else>>Gladys come forward?" She was clearly stunned. I worried about her advanced age and the shock. She was surrounded by smiles and was brought up in front of the congregation, "Thank you for all you have done, child, you truly embody Christ and you make us all stronger in the knowing of Him through you." What a wonderful Easter. Gladys truly deserved it. I made a promise to myself to try and embody more of her spirit from [[now on|HS002 - PromDress]]. <</if>><div id="comp"> Yep. Showed up in the afternoons and all day on Saturday in my //normal// clothes. Did you really think that the clergy walked around in vestments all the time? Deacon Stern was put together in a button-down and dark slacks, shoes -- though worn -- shining brightly with care. And Hull often broke out a Rush t-shirt, well-loved through the years, and a pair of cargo shorts. The dissonance was astounding. But, given that they weren't cloistered monks, I quickly got over my preconceived notions and became used to our little church-Office dynamic. Our Youth Pastor, Dylan, popped in from time to time, but he was often off-site doing outreach, managing community affairs and running errands for the more senior duo. "Morning, gentlemen. <<print $Name>>." He nodded my way, deliberately including me at my make-shift desk in the corner. "Morning, Dylan." Hull lifted his head from the weekend's sermon. He watched Dylan move about the office with purpose -- this file cabinet, that folder. Then he turned his gaze on me and I dropped my eyes immediately to the address list I was double-checking. "Why don't you take <<print $Name>> with you today? I think she could do with getting out of this musty office and away from two moth-eaten old men." Stern cleared his throat, Hull smiled at him kindly, "And just leave the address list on my desk. I'll finish it for you, dear." Not wanting to get between whatever unspoken conversation was happening, I kept my eyes bowed and placed the list carefully on an open area of his desk before joining Dylan by the entryway. "Ready for our little adventure?" "What are we doing?" I asked, meekly. "We're going to have a little competition. Do you think you can get more signatures than me this afternoon?" He handed me a clipboard. It was a petition to unconstrain the Pledge of Allegiance in school and allow people to reference God, if they so chose. "Ready? Go!" And -- a little like Charlie Chaplin -- he waddled off jokingly. He'd have the advantage on me of actually knowing the petition, so I'd have to find some way to outmaneuver him. He looked back, I mimicked his waddle off in another <<link "direction">><<replace "#comp">> <div id ="result"> <div id ="compch"> <<if $hsv == "church">> Had he not thought about the <<link "Youth Group">><<replace "#compch">> <<set $Vol ++>>Well, maybe it was because he didn't know where they'd be during 'off-hours'. But I did. Right behind the church. Hiding in plain sight? They all readily signed the petition, some simply because they knew it was a competition with Dylan. That was a quick batch, but wouldn't be enough. I made my way around town. <<nobr>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set $Vol ++>>Thankfully, people were actually happy to be approached by me. Irrespective of gender, they were willing to entertain a few words and sign something while I smiled at them.<br><br><</if>> <<if $athletics gt 2>><<set $Vol ++>>But I did have to pound some pavement. Moving quickly when an area was exhausted was a strain, but I made it work. I had a deadline to make.<br><br><</if>> <<if $deception gt 1>><<set $Vol ++>>And to some...I may have lied -- covered the name and description text. I tried to use the strength of numbers to assure them it was a good cause. I didn't know their politics and certainly doubted many of their religions. But I needed the signatures.<br><br><</if>> <</nobr>> <<link "How'd I do">><<replace "#result">> <<if $Vol gt 5>>Dylan's eyes gaped, "Incredible. I think this actually might pass, thanks to you." He squeezed my hand, some tears in his eyes. I didn't realize this meant that much to him. "Dinner's on me." We went to a diner and spent the night laughing about the people we'd encountered and things we'd said and done. We munched on fries while sipping a milkshake and stayed even after the meal [[was crumbs|HS002 - AltarGirl2]].<<else>>Dylan nodded, "Great job." And began to move away with my clipboard, I reached out, grabbing for his, "We all win in the end, isn't that right?" Ugh. That was going to [[bother me|HS002 - AltarGirl2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> <</replace>><</link>>? //His// Youth Group? Easy win. <</if>> <<print $DName>>'s <<link "office">> <<replace "#compch">> It was a quick jaunt down to the Travel Agency where <<print $DName>> worked. It was always a madhouse, people on calls, papers everywhere, and everyone was frantically clicking their mouses as their eyes darted across their monitors. <<nobr>> <<if $deception gt 1>><<set $Vol ++>>He wasn't the biggest fan of my entrenchment at the church, but he didn't //have// to know what the petition was about. "You mind helping me out on this thing for school? Just need some signatures for Government and Econ?" He nodded and quickly sent off a memo to the office distro telling them to sign. It was good to know the boss.<br><br><</if>> <<if $perception gt 1>><<set $Vol ++>>The pace and focus was like a puzzle I needed to navigate. Disrupt someone at the wrong time was a quick way to a quick no. But I was able to sus out who was most available and made sure they didn't feel time-pressure.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 2>><<set $Vol ++>>I could taste the win. I //needed// to win. I wondered if I was going to get judged, but I knew how to get guys attention quickly. A little sit on the desk, not cross the legs, their eyes darted down without any encouragement. And their pens darted across the paper.<<if $Undies == "Commando">><<set $Vol ++>> What they //really// enjoyed? Was that they got the full show as I sat on their desk. I didn't make them rush to sign.<</if>><br><br><</if>> <</nobr>> <<link "How'd I do">><<replace "#result">> <<if $Vol gt 5>> Dylan's eyes gaped, "Incredible. I think this actually might pass, thanks to you." He squeezed my hand, some tears in his eyes. I didn't realize this meant that much to him. "Dinner's on me." We went to a diner and spent the night laughing about the people we'd encountered and things we'd said and done. We munched on fries while sipping a milkshake and stayed even after the meal [[was crumbs|HS002 - AltarGirl2]].<<else>>Dylan nodded, "Great job." And began to move away with my clipboard, I reached out, grabbing for his, "We all win in the end, isn't that right?" Ugh. That was going to [[bother me|HS002 - AltarGirl2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> <</replace>><</link>> seemed like a fish in a barrel. Better get to plying the <<link "Saturday Park Goers">> <<replace "#compch">> I rushed out to the park, standing by the great green expanse littered with people. <<nobr>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set $Vol ++>>It felt too easy in some ways, people perking up at my approach and wanting me to open my mouth, to chat them up. Their yeses came with a ready smile too.<br><br><</if>> <<if $social gt 3>><<set $Vol ++>>You had to know the right approach, gauge your audience and not just jump-scare them. A comment about their kid, the bottle of wine, the book they were reading. Connecting with them got a pen to connect to paper.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Confident gt 2>><<set $Vol ++>>If you got over your own mind gremlins, it was pretty easy. The ask on the petition wasn't that big. Just some confidence and the fact that they were a captive audience? People signed.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0 && $MaleReaction gt 0>><<set $Vol ++>>I could taste the win. I //needed// to win. I wasn't about to tell Dylan how I got those last few signatures, and no one here would be able to spread rumors, so I remained the only one who knew that sure, I made out with some guys that asked for a kiss in exchange. They put down their John Hancock.<br><br><</if>> <</nobr>> <<link "How'd I do">><<replace "#result">> <<if $Vol gt 5>> Dylan's eyes gaped, "Incredible. I think this actually might pass, thanks to you." He squeezed my hand, some tears in his eyes. I didn't realize this meant that much to him. "Dinner's on me." We went to a diner and spent the night laughing about the people we'd encountered and things we'd said and done. We munched on fries while sipping a milkshake and stayed even after the meal [[was crumbs|HS002 - AltarGirl2]]. <<else>> Dylan nodded, "Great job." And began to move away with my clipboard, I reached out, grabbing for his, "We all win in the end, isn't that right?" Ugh. That was going to [[bother me|HS002 - AltarGirl2]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>? <</replace>><</link>>. </div> </div> <</replace>><</link>>. That's where all the people were on a nice day like today. </div><<set $Vol += 2>><<set _penance = 0>>The work was surprisingly mundane. I didn't expect the church to be maintained by all these spreadsheets, envelopes and phone calls. The juxtaposition of the cross on the wall overhanging the filing cabinet filled with tax forms, balance sheets, and grant documentation was odd to say the least. But those days and afternoons weren't entirely paper pushing. Just before three, Hull stood with a contented sigh and stretching of his lower back and moved to assume a piece of his vestments. There was always a wry little 'come on' wave of the hand and side-long glance. And then we were off to the confessional. I'd maintain order as he listened to the penitent. There wasn't some Black Friday sale clamor for the booth, but I did my duty, nodding the next person in as it became vacant. <<if $Excitable gt 0>>Hull mentioned to me every time that I could give just a //bit// more space between them, but I felt like I had. Hadn't I? I'd try better next time, but the same comment. Hmm.<<else>>I knew the perfect pace, giving Hull moments to collect himself and say a personal prayer after the last departure. He was always thankful.<</if>> Once the last confession was heard, the church sat empty for a moment as I prepared myself. It was my turn. It was also how Hull knew and expected his time in the box to come to a close. <<if $Stable gt 0>>There was one time when I tried to just skimp on my confession and knocked at his door. "That's it for today." He chuckled. "I think I hear one more..." I roiled a bit at the implication, "Not that you can forgive, but you can hear mine, if it makes you feel at ease, child."<</if>> <<nobr>>"Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been a week since my last confession...<br><br> <<if $Confident lt 0>><<set _penance ++>>I fought with <<print $MName>> again. She just knows how to get my hackles up.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Sophisticated gt 0>><<set _penance ++>>There were some clothes that I couldn't afford, but I needed -- everyone has them. I...may have borrowed them from the store.<br><br><</if>> <<if $discipline lte 0>><<set _penance ++>>Petey sat beside me in Physics and I hadn't done my homework...so I copied off him so I wouldn't get a zero.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>><<set _penance ++>>I went on this date with...just some guy...and I dunno how it happened, but we were just talking one minute and then...<br><br> <<if $deception gt 0>><<set _penance ++>>His Dad walked in and I lied to him about what I was doing.<br><br><</if>> <<if $wiles gt 0>><<set _penance ++>>Afterward, I may have felt powerful and important and I may have teased him despite knowing that we wouldn't be continuing.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>><<set _penance ++>>It was just sex...it's not //that// big of a deal.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>><<set _penance ++>>And I know, we should have been using protection...but it happened so fast.<br><br><</if>><</if>> ...This is all I can remember. I am sorry for these and all my sins."<</nobr>> Each truth wrenched from me simply by the silence across the grated, small window. But then they were out and there ''was'' release. I was assigned my penance, <<if _penance gt 7>>which always came with a heavy, disappointed sigh that surprised me -- Hull never made even that kind of comment -- I was to deny myself my phone, make dinner for my home, promise to reform and give myself to Him. I always asked forgiveness for these undone tasks each week...it was too much.<<elseif _penance gt 5>>which was to promise to reform, give myself to Him, and sacrifice my phone for the next week -- I came close most weeks, but it was always a sin to be mentioned<<elseif _penance gt 3>>which was a few prayers and the promise to reform<<else>>which was to sit in silence with him for a moment. He believed I was holding back, but I insisted. I'd always win Never Have I Ever<</if>>. I said the Act of Contrition, and then, amazingly without judgement, he slid the window open, "Time to make sure we have something to atone for next week, I think." We'd go get a hamburger. It was a fun 'bad' deed. I really enjoyed [[Reverend Hull|HS002 - Election]].<<if $activity == "read" && $hsv == "read">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $hsv.length is 0>><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<set $TestScore ++>> Surprisingly, he was young -- he was taking classes at the community college. He was cute. And he did know his stuff. <<print $MName>> giggled a bit at how quickly I nodded when they asked if I wanted to continue with the tutor after the first session. <<print $DName>> uncomfortably exited the room. And so it went. Harden and I met in the living room, in a nearby park, at the local library, back behind the school from time to time. He was very flexible, and I was a sponge. I absorbed what I could while I //occasionally// drifted into daydreaming and reading into his mannerisms and behavior. Did he think I was cute? Was that wrong? Should I touch his hand? Did he just touch my hand? <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Excitable gt 0>>I was determined to know for [[certain|HS002 - TutorTry]]<</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>>I got frustrated, so I managed to finagle the next session for my [[room|HS002 - TutorHU][$wiles ++]].<</if>> The thoughts were fun, but I didn't push [[anything|HS002 - TutorEnd][$TestScore ++]].The tension lessened. Maybe the novelty had worn off, or maybe the questions in (both?) of our heads were dispelled and that meant we fell into a much more typical rhythm and I definitely learned more now. Our progress continued and then his own final season began gearing up. <<print $MName>> sounded sad each time she relayed a tutoring session being rescheduled or cancelled. She offered that I should invite the Boys over instead. I shrugged. I saw Harden less and less, and my end of year was quickly [[approaching|HS002 - PromDress]], too.<span id = "hookup">Now, I wasn't going to //throw// myself at him. I made certain that <<print $MName>> and <<print $DName>> were out of the house. I put on a touch of makeup, but otherwise exemplified my best attempt at 'cute casual'. My heart was pounding. My throat was dry. I squeaked when I opened the door for him and led him inside. "Oh, my bag's in my room...that <<link "okay">><<replace '#hookup'>><<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> "Uh, sure." He nodded and we silently headed back to my room. I dropped onto the bed and began digging in my bag, leaning forward to give as much of a show as possible. Just accidentally happening to be ass up, head down. Did he gulp audibly? I don't know, but when I smirked up at him, books still not retrieved, the look on his face told me everything I needed to know. I shifted to make room and patted the bed. I could see his consideration, and enough time passed that I almost felt offended. Shifting back against him, our mouths met. Quickly, the dynamic changed from me against him to him against me. I don't remember us talking at all. I certainly didn't learn anything...about school. That may have been my favorite [[session|HS002 - TutorEnd]]. <<else>> "Okay, I can wait for ya." He nodded, not catching the hint. My heart sank. <<if $spoiled == true>>I charged down the hallway, fighting the heat rising in my cheeks and chest. I slammed the door open and dropped onto my bed, kicking my bag aside. I stared at the door, waiting for him to appear. He didn't. How. Dare. He.<<else>>I felt gut-punched and headed back to my room like the meekest of mice. The weight of my bag felt immense. Had I brought **every** book home with me?<</if>>. Harden was on his phone, infuriatingly unaware, or fully aware and that would have hurt even more. I chose the chair across from him. I pulled on a loose sweatshirt and let him drone on. I don't remember learning anything at all that day. When you swing and you miss, it [[hurts|HS002 - TutorEnd]]. <</if>><</replace>><</link>>?" I off-handedly mentioned when he began moving towards the couch.</span><<set _success = ($Attractiveness + $wiles + $Risky - $Confident + $Sophisticated)>> <<set _successNum = random(1,10)>> I brought an extra change of clothes, a bit more revealing and suggestive than my usual. As I made my way to //our// picnic table, my heart was in my throat. My hands were slick and no matter how many times I wiped them across my skirt, they were instantly moist again. There he was, endearingly nose-down and preparing for our session. "Hey, Harden." <<if _success gte _successNum>> He looked up and I couldn't help but laugh when his jaw dropped. While he was wordless, I sat next to him, rather than across in the usual fashion. My bare thigh pressed slightly against his as I got settled and his eyes still were finding difficulty settling on something that wasn't a part of me. "What're we covering today?" "N...not much." I don't think he realized his double entendre. I leaned in closer, peering into his book rather than grabbing my own. He didn't argue, and we stayed close like this. My body screamed at me each time I held new contact with him, or when his arm subtly slid around my waist. Towards the end of our session, I couldn't resist and I looked up, eyes on his lips and he caught the cue. It was difficult to make out on a bench like this and the wood was certainly doing to favors to my ass and thighs, but we didn't notice anymore. And then, I had him drive me back home. 'Like always.' <<else>> "Hey, <<print $Name>>, how was class?" his eyes barely lifting from the book. "Got a perfect score on a pop quiz that //happened// to include what we covered last week..." I sat across from him, deciding to let the skirt work in my favor. "That's awesome!" "Yeah, right? Super stoked." I bounced a bit, letting my thighs spread a bit as I took a more casual seated position. Physics and my choices didn't seem to distract him. "So I guess we could move on to Bio?" Was he making an age-old (and tired) implication? "Kreb's cycle still getting you down?" He wasn't. Shit. We studied, I occasionally peacocked and flashed, but I really felt unattractive by the end of the session. I made up some BS about heading to a friend's house and declined the usual ride back home. The walk was annoying, but gave me time to process. <</if>> Welp. Now I [[knew|HS002 - TutorEnd]].<<set $TwitchSearch = []>> My bags were packed to the brim. My heart was in my throat. And we were on our way. The line to grab our badges was never-ending. The AC blasted so hard and so constantly that even Andrew's nipples were perpetually hard. And the men, oh man, there were so many men. I don't know if the proportion was making the attention so prevalent and constant, or if it was a law of large numbers kind of thing. In any event, I was super glad to have The Boys with me, a protective barrier of testosterone. Badges in hand, the Boys started to make their way back to the rooms, "Let's get some practice in, team!" I stopped dead in the corridor, giving <<print $Friend1>> a hard look, "Our roster's short to be a team. Can't PUG tomorrow." From the sidelong glances Andrew and Ethan gave me, I could tell they were thinking the same thing. "With this many people around? Someone's bound to be down to clown!" He spread his arms wide, walking backwards, away from me. He was resolved, the social skills of the crew weren't awe inspiring...but we did need a fifth. <<if $MaleAttention gt 0 && $Cosplay == true>>Maybe Ahri needed to make an appearance before the open and see if she could [[Charm|HS002 - TwitchAhri]] a Fifth.<</if>> <<if $social gt 0>>I could ditch practice in the room and check out the [[Gaming Hall|HS002 - TwitchSearch][$TwitchWin --]].<</if>> <<if $Confident gte 0>>Knowing them, they'd just grab the first willing victim, so I needed to do the talking [[tomorrow|HS002 - TwitchEarly]].<</if>> Otherwise, I could just see who they came up with tomorrow for [[go-time|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchWin -=2; $TwitchFifth = "Loser"]].<<set $TwitchWin = $learning>><<set $TwitchCosWin = $Attractiveness>><<set $TwitchFifth = []>><<set $Cosplay = false>> <<if $freetime == "home" && $hsv == "home">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $activity == "read" && $hsv == "read">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $wealth gt 3>>We bought our flights<<else>>We pleaded and promised our way into transportation<</if>> to the yearly capstone for streaming. It was set. We were going! They were stoked, not just to be able to share the same air as those who had made the tier lists we followed, but also to potentially score some cred at the League Championship Series Open. For some reason, though, they didn't seem as enamored with the cosplay aspect of the convention. <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>There was the chance that a we could [[all get our way|HS002 - TwitchConvince][$Cosplay = true]].<</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>I honestly didn't give a shit about winning. I was there to [[have fun|HS002 - TwitchConvince][$TwitchWin --]].<</if>> <<if $MaleAttention gt 0>>I'd __show__ them exactly why they should join me in [[cosplay|HS002 - TwitchConvince][$Cosplay = true]].<</if>> And they were right. I could have some accents, but I should focus on the [[competition|HS002 - Twitch2][$TwitchWin += 2]].<span id = "AhriStart"> I grunted, rolling out of bed and unceremoniously punching the "Stop" on my alarm. I doubted the Boys heard it in the next room, since theirs wouldn't go off for an hour yet. I woke myself up with a quick rinse-off and fought the urge to enjoy the hot steam for longer than a couple minutes. Hurriedly, I dried off and sat on the edge of the bed and began to pull on the costume that I had laid out meticulously the night before. Glancing quickly in the mirror to fluff my hair over the headband for my ears and giving a quick lipstick stroke: one-two-three on each cheek, Ahri came together. "This better work." I mumbled to myself, mostly because of the ungodly <<link "hour">><<replace "#AhriStart">> <<if $Costume == "Elder">> I tried to convince myself that I was wearing a miniskirt, because that was essentially what it was. And the top was essentially a bikini, right? The constant and industrial level of air-conditioning proved that I was underdressed though. And I tried to ignore the occasional patches of wet or crusty carpet underfoot as I made my way from the hotel through the skyway and into the convention hall. It was early, and most people 'like me' tended to enjoy rolling up at the last minute. All the same, every eye was on me, few as they were. And I couldn't blame them, practically every inch of me was on display. Well. It was having the desired affect. <</if>> <<if $Costume == "Academy">> I was thankful for the coverage. The bodice accentuated my proportions, but the closed collar and long sleeves protected me from the worst of the industrial AC. The stockings did similar work for my legs, while the pleated mini was certainly dangerously short, only a few inches remained bare. <</if>> <<if $Costume == "Prestige">> The skirt was slitted, which allowed for a long stride and a fair amount of cover, while certainly giving a show of pretty much every inch of my gams. The bodice lifted and accentuated my chest and highlighted my ratio. And the boots added some extra height. The jangle at my wrists attracted the few early-comers' eyes -- most people 'like me' tended to enjoy rolling up at the last minute. Nobody else was in full cosplay mode, so every eye was on me. I couldn't blame them, the outfit __rocked__. <</if>> The attention varied from "Great costume!" to the slack-jawed drooling. I had to quickly evade a couple of people wanting pictures with me -- the compliment well taken, but I was on a mission. The main hall was abuzz, even with hours to go. And I was __out__ __of__ __place__. It was jeans and graphic tees. It was unshaved and probably unwashed. <<if $Costume == "Elder" || "Prestige">>Goosebumps covered my skin -- the AC here was on overdrive.<</if>> <<if $Costume == "Elder">> The uncarpeted floor was far less forgiving in temperature and hiding exactly what I was stepping through. <</if>> But it did get me attention. I could feel the guys deciding how to approach, so I quickly glanced over the board and got a basic grip on teams and comps. Approaching the alternate for [[FlyQuest|HS002 - TwitchFly][$Excitable ++]] would be bold AF. There were the [[Unaffiliated|HS002 - TwitchUn]], of course. Or, I could take [[confidence|HS002 - TwitchApp][$MaleAttention ++; $Confident --]] as an indicator of skill. <</replace>><</link>>.</span>A few moments later, there was a crumpling Beast can that announced his arrival. He looked out of an 'ad' for a video game. He towered over me and presented himself not quite in a direct approach -- as if I wasn't the aim of his attention. <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>>"Lost, kitten?" I stuttered unconvincingly, "Uh, __no__." He chuckled and grinned, leaning against the railing beside me. One of his molded triceps brushed against me. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">>"Well, you at least got your audience right."<</if>><<if $Costume == "Elder">>"You here to distract one of the teams? Who's paying you?"<</if>> I stumbled over my words, "We need a fifth. I'm **competing** later." <<if $Costume == "Academy">>"Oh! That explains the outfit. You're here to get schooled."<<else>>"And so your teammates sent you to...attract one? Doesn't say much for your chances, kitten."<</if>> I was red. I had to be red. I was absolutely embarrassed. Tears began to well up in my eyes, threatening to smudge the 'whiskers', as I realized how demeaning the whole idea was. "Whoah, whoah, whoah. No need for those," a broad thumb caught one from each of my eyes as I turned them upward towards him, surprisingly not ruining my eyeliner. "I'll be your fifth. How's that sound?" I nodded quickly and took a step back, "T-thank you." He smiled and waved, "See you later, kitten." I darted out of there as fast as my legs would carry me. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">>My tits felt like they were about to bounce out of the bodice.<</if>><<if $Costume == "Academy">>My skirt was certainly flipping up and removing any modesty I had left.<</if>><<if $Costume == "Elder">>By the time I made it back to my room, the top had slid down my stomach despite my urgent tugging and I'm know every single person caught full-on view under my skirt of leaves.<</if>> Fumbling with my keycard and wiping at my teary face, I plunged into my room and quickly stuffed the costume into the trashcan. Unceremonious and irretrievable. I took another shower. I didn't care how long the water ran for. When I extricated myself from the bathroom, I had realized: "We had our fifth." So that was a win. Rewarding myself for the victory, I plucked the ears as they hung from the rim. I got ready, tucked them into my hair and returned to the [[Open|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Stud"; $Cosplay = false]] as an accented version of myself. <<else>> "Ya look a little lost." I stuttered unconvincingly, "Uh, __no__." He chuckled and grinned, leaning against the railing beside me. One of his molded triceps brushed against me. "Games haven't started yet. Nothing to spectate." I stumbled over my words, "We need a fifth. I'm **competing** later." He looked me over, curious. Then, smiled, pleased with himself, "Well, you should at least hold up a sign." My cheeks flushed. What was I thinking, that someone could read my mind? "You play?" Was all I could manage. "Inviting me to your squad?" I nodded, eyes turning upward hopefully, "Not really in a competing mood. Here's my number, though." He tugged my phone out of my back pocket without asking, gave a chin motion indicating for me to unlock it. Then put in his number, name listed as: Good Luck. As he walked off, I was infuriated. I was embarrassed. I was at a loss. And, I noticed that now that he had picked me up, no one was giving me the time of day. After a half hour or so, I left the hall to grab a coffee and return for the [[Open|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Loser"]]. Hopefully they would have turned someone up. <</if>><<set $CC = random(1,10)>> <<if $TwitchOpenLoss == true>> We shuffled out, dejected and releasing some anger by pushing through the bodies towards the cosplayers. <</if>> <<if $Memories.includes("TwitchOpenWin")>> Adrenaline was pounding and we felt on top of the world. No one could stop us pushing our way through the masses towards the cosplayers. <</if>> <<if $Cosplay == true>> There were some last minute fixes as we walked over, the past few hours had not been kind to what we had designed to wear __standing__. We pressed out the crumples and wrinkles that we could, but overall I was rather impressed with the care the Boys had taken with their costumes. They'd come quite a way from not wanting to dress up. We slotted into line, arguing a bit about what our order should be and if the placement made sense given who our jungler was. Eventually I ended up in front, and I'm not sure if it made the most sense from a judging perspective, but probably from //their// perspectives behind me. Guys. Video game concepts were strong, some threw back to movies like Legend -- the Tim Curry Darkness was killer -- some original cosplays and girls (and some guys) clearly just trying to look hot. <<if $TwitchCosWin gte $CC>><<set $Memories.push("TwitchCosWin")>> In the final three was a team of Incredibles, a Melina from Elden Ring that...took some liberties with the look, and... One of the judges stood up, leaning over the desk and peering, eyes like focused lasers our way. You could feel every matted hair, every painted bit of skin got taught and tense. You could sense the pick-me energy. I know, 'cuz I had it. Then I felt a tug on my wrist and the suddenness had me stumbling forward. <<print $Friend1>> grinned broadly at me, tugging me again as I trailed the rest of the Boys. As I passed the table, that judge slid out from behind it, whispering in my real ears, "Nice Ahri." His beefy arm nudged me further towards the Boys, but not without getting a bit of accidental action. Then the selection. Getting this far was massive and super exciting, "You were right, you were right." The Boys were leaning in close to me, a protective little arc, but also keeping me front and center. After a bit of back and forth, each walked away a winner with some superlative, but... "League of Legends!" Came that handsy judge, waving me towards the table again, "Best Group Cosplay and Best of the Year" he announced again, but now my protection had shattered under the excitement and each of those words led to a bit more adventurous investigation of my...outfit. <<if $MaleReaction gt 1>>It felt good. Not just the winning.<<else>> I tried to focus on the cash prize I was being handed as best I could.<</if>> <<else>> In the final three was a team of Incredibles, a Melina from Elden Ring that...took some liberties with the look, and a full on Hulkbuster from Infinity War. Dejected, we waited with the other costumed losers, awaiting final decision. After a bit of back and forth, each walked away a winner with some superlative, but the overall was Melina. The purposeful flash of skin in her excitement was an extra gift to the mostly-male audience. So much for that idea... <</if>> <<else>> We settled alongside the hallway, crowds assembled on either side of a 'runway' where the competitors would walk down, showing off to the crowd and then judged. It was impressive! People had gone to great lengths and looked amazing. I poked <<print $Name1>> in the side and gave a 'told ya' look. "Yeah, you def woulda looked hotter than most of them." I rolled my eyes and my poke turned to a punch. Video game concepts were strong, some threw back to movies like Legend -- the Tim Curry Darkness was killer -- some original cosplays and girls (and some guys) clearly just trying to look hot. <<if $TwitchCosWin gte $CC>><<set $Memories.push("TwitchCosWin")>> In the final three was a team of Incredibles, a Melina from Elden Ring that...took some liberties with the look...and the judges began to argue. One of the judges stood up, leaning over the desk and peering, eyes like focused lasers our way. The crowd got quiet and the general area began looking at each other. Then I felt a tug on my wrist and the suddenness had me stumbling forward. I looked back at the judge and he waved me forward. I felt very cold but slowly made my way over to him. "Nice Ahri." He leaned in and smiled, his beefy arm giving me a nudge over to the final three. "I mean, y-yeah but..." I looked back at him, deer in headlights. "Shhh..." "I didn't even enter--" "...go on now." I shook my head, shrugging back at the Boys but they grinned broadly and waved me on. I think I blacked out. But I do remember winning. //Winning// the "Best Hot Tub Cosplay" category. It meant a cool hundred cash, so I wasn't going to argue. <<else>> In the final three was a team of Incredibles, a Melina from Elden Ring that...took some liberties with the look, and a full on Hulkbuster from Infinity War. After a bit of back and forth, each walked away a winner, but the overall was Melina. The purposeful flash of skin in her excitement was an extra gift to the mostly-male audience. <</if>> <</if>> The rest of the convention was a blast, all of the competitiveness behind us, we had the opportunity to check out booths of our favorite streamers, get some merch, and eat some shitty con-food before [[heading back home|HS002 - PromDress]].<<set $wiles ++>> <span id = "convince"> I rolled over to <<print $Friend1>>'s garage like it was a typical Friday afternoon. They were miffed that I hadn't headed straight over with them after school, but they had no idea what was in store for them. I rapped my hand against the door -- partially lifted as always, so they could see my chucks -- "Yeah, yeah. Yer late, you have to crawl under the gate. You know the rules, <<print $Name>>." It was Andrew, who still had scrapes on his knees from last week. "I'm pretty sure you're going to want to open this goddamn thing up." A flick of some fluffy fur, waving two weighted white tails just below the edge of the door. There was silence. Clearly confusion. And then the machine groaned, notching up the door and giving a magnificent reveal to me, in my true form... <<link "Ahri">><<replace "#convince">>Ahri. I hadn't decided which skin to emulate yet, but the basics of the outfit were there. The tails had taken forever and they were tugging down uncomfortably at the Spanx I had fastened them to under the bodice. <<if $Attractiveness gt 2>>They were agog, and it was doing the trick.<<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>> The cut-out skirt, askance on my hips, flashed upper thigh in such a way to hint that mayyybe they could see more.<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>> The bodice hid a demi-cup and lifted my chest in a way that accentuated the cleavage and accented their natural movements.<</if>> "Holy fuck," was all Ethan could squeak. "Let's have some real fun!" I stepped into the cool air of the garage, heading to the remote, "<<print $Friend1>> can be Vladimir," I reached down to press the button, the view from the front and the back both being emphasized simultaneously. "Andrew can be Zed," using my toes I kicked off my shoes, acting as nonchalant and "average Friday" as I could, padding over to them, "and Ethan, I know you like Caitlyn, but I'm not sure that's the look you're going for." It was a needed joke, the tension in the air and in their shorts was palpable. It redirected the energy while the door clanked closed. "Uh. Y-yeah. So..." he tried to regain composure. "Lucian?" He gulped and nodded. "I know you guys are worried about our fifth, but we can pug at the Con for certain." "Now I am too." And they all laughed again. "Maybe we can win twice in our first Con? What dya say?" It was nods all around, though their eyes were having difficulty while I was having difficulty finding a comfortable way to sit on the couch. Maybe this outfit for the entire evening wasn't the best choice. But I had gotten what I wanted. "Cool. It's not done yet, and I can help with yours...Not sure whether to go Prestige, Academy, or Spirit Blossom [[Ahri|HS002 - TwitchCos]]." <<else>>They nodded and then Ethan gave a little head motion, indicating to join them and that my moment [[was done|HS002 - Twitch2]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>></span><<set $Costume = "">> <<set $TwitchWin -->> Entering the Open meant we bonded on their terms -- not gonna lie, I loved LoL. But the Cosplay contest as a team? We're bonding on something I enjoyed as well. And hell, we could win some cash. There were more than a few requests over the weeks for me to 'remind them' of the outfit and I played it off as best I could. They relented to simply suggesting their preferred skin -- and clearly more of it -- for my outfit: <<print $Friend1>> wanted [[Prestige|HS002 - Twitch2][$Costume = "Prestige"]] <<if $Risky || $Easy gt 0>>Ethan wanted [[Elderwood|HS002 - Twitch2][$TwitchCosWin += 2; $Costume = "Elder"]]<<else>>Ethan wanted Spring Blossom but I knew exactly why and that wasn't my idea of a fun day surrounded by sweaty neckbeards.<</if>> Andrew wanted [[Academy|HS002 - Twitch2][$TwitchCosWin ++; $Costume = "Academy"]] We started by searching online for all the reference images we could find. And the number of skins was both a blessing and a curse. And these guys weren't exactly the real-life models of their avatars. The LoL sessions sometimes were entirely taken up with costume planning. Even a simple costume has lots of pieces, and there were four of us – we decided which parts to make, which parts to buy, and which parts to modify. Measuring up their waists and legs felt awkwardly intimate, but we got over it –- especially when the costumes came together, and we posed for a group photo for the first time. We looked pretty awesome!I grunted, rolling out of bed and unceremoniously punching the "Stop" on my alarm. I doubted the Boys heard it in the next room, since theirs wouldn't go off for an hour yet. I woke myself up with a quick rinse-off and fought the urge to enjoy the hot steam for longer than a couple minutes. Hurriedly, I dried off and sat on the edge of the bed and began to pull on the clothes I had set out last night. It was early, and most people 'like me' tended to enjoy rolling up at the last minute. Being a girl, and alone, I could feel the guys deciding how to approach, so I quickly glanced over the board and got a basic grip on teams and comps. Approaching the alternate for [[FlyQuest|HS002 - TwitchFly][$Excitable ++]] would be bold AF. There were the [[Unaffiliated|HS002 - TwitchUn]], of course. Or, I could take [[confidence|HS002 - TwitchApp][$MaleAttention ++; $Confident --]] as an indicator of skill.<<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri") || visited("HS002 - TwitchEarly")>>FlyQuest were already ensconced in their chairs, running trainings and tactics right up to the start of the competition. No wonder they were so highly ranked. Standing behind them, was a guy much older, sipping a coffee and intent on the screens. At first, I thought he was a coach, until I had counted the group for the third time. He had to be their alternate. And it made sense, with a couple decades (and more than a few pounds) on any of the others, his twitch skills were probably deteriorating. But he still had that hunger in his eyes. <span id ="approach">There was the <<link "indirect">><<replace "#approach">> <<set $wiles ++>> I sidled up nearby, keeping my eyes on the FlyQuest monitors. Almost instinctively, I felt him respond, "Hey, hey. Private session..." he trailed off as my <<print $Eyes>> lifted to meet his, a look of confusion and unreproachability. <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri") || $Attractiveness gt 3>> "Oh, I'm so sorry." I stepped away from the gaming chairs, but not away from him, and not quickly, gaining some distance on his teammates. "No, no, clearly you aren't some...spy," he chuckled, his weight shifting away from the rest of FlyQuest as well. "I could be! I main Ahri." <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>>"I can see that. Clearly a fit for you." I modeled for him, slightly, and he took advantage of the opportunity to let his eyes roam, "<<print $Name>>" I extended my hand and his, much grubbier, clenched it straight away. "Vic" "So you don't get to play today?" "Alternate. If one of them is sick, or..." "They don't look sick." "No." His eyes had not left my outfit. "You ever get to compete? Have a shot, ya know?" My hand dropped to my hip, slightly shifting the skirt down. "Not really..." "You think they'd miss you? We're looking for a fifth and we're signed up for the Open." "And get fired?" "And get to play." I extended my hand, touching his wrist lightly, "Look, I get it. How about you come back with me and meet the guys and...decide then?" I stepped backward, slight pressure on his wrist as a subtle suggestion to come with. He [[did|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Vic"]]. <<else>> "Really? Well, I guess you are suited to the charm." "Vic," he extended his grubbier hand to clasp mine. "<<print $Name>>. So, Vic, you don't get to play today?" "Alternate. If one of them is sick, or..." "They don't look sick." "No." His eyes were darting surreptitiously as we chatted. "You ever get to compete? Have a shot, ya know?" I played it off, letting him check me out. "Not really..." "You think they'd miss you? We're looking for a fifth and we're signed up for the Open." "And get fired?" "And get to play." I extended my hand, touching his wrist lightly, "Look, I get it. How about you come back with me and meet the guys and...decide then?" I stepped backward, slight pressure on his wrist as a subtle suggestion to come with. He [[did|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Vic"]]. <</if>> <<else>> "Oh, I'm so sorry." I stepped away from the gaming chairs, but not away from him, and not quickly, gaining some distance on his teammates. He gave me an odd look and I couldn't quite gauge what was going on in his head, but he was turning back around. "Sorry again, excuse me..." I lightly touched his lower back. He jerked back instinctively. "Look, girlie..." his hand pushed mine aside. His face was firm. "You get to play today?" "I don't get where you think you get off--" "We're looking for a fifth--" "Ha. Well I have my team, and a job that I'd like to keep. Now scoot." I spun, defeated -- <<if $spoiled == true>> where did __he__ think he got off, treating me that way!<<else>>my boldness punished instead of rewarded --<</if>> and returned to my room to wait out the painful time until we played with [[whoever they managed|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Loser"]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> or the <<link "direct">><<replace "#approach">><<set $deception ++>> <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri") || $Attractiveness gt 2>>"Vic, right?" I had pulled his name from the board, and he met my gaze as I stood beside him, squared up and serving my most confident self, "I've watched your streams." He grinned. I don't think he was used to being approached by anyone who looked like me. <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>> I stepped off to the side, giving him a look over one shoulder, "Don't worry. We'll be back soon enough," giving my best Ahri impression. His post was vacant almost instantaneously, his eyes on my form moving away from him. Once out of earshot, "<<print $Name>>, and I don't think it's fair you're stuck watching." "Me either. But if I were playing, I wouldn't get to talk to you. How much work you put into all this?" he motioned at the outfit. "Probably as much as you've put into League." He chuckled. "I'm short one for our team, we're playing in the Open--" "Whoah, whoah, whoah, you poaching?" "There you are! Come to see new sights with me?" my grin sparkled. "You're good. You play that well?" he pondered, looking back at the bank of gaming chairs, "You gonna wear that the whole time?" "We got a deal?" I shifted, urging him to follow back out of the hall, "Come on, meet the guys." "We're keeping this on the DL, hear me, <<print $Name>>?" We had our [[fifth|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Vic"]]! <<else>> I stepped off to the side, giving him a look over one shoulder. He shifted, considering. I flashed a smile. His post was vacant. Once out of earshot, "<<print $Name>>, and I don't think it's fair with your talent, you have to watch." "Me either. But if I were playing, I wouldn't get to talk to you." His grin was broader, but I could tell there was a cloud of doubt in his head as he considered our age disparity. "Well, I'll do you one better. I'm short one for our team, and we're playing in the Open--" "Whoah, whoah, whoah, you're **poaching**?" "It's a __crime__ you don't get a seat." "Is there a hidden camera? Are you trying to get me...fired?" He had considered a different word there. "No one will know. No cap." I <<if $freetime == "church">><<else>>mock<</if>> genuflected and leaned in, "You get swapped in if they're sick...what if you're 'sick'?" I bit my lower lip, <<print $Eyes>> pulling as good a puppy dog as I could manage. I let the beat settle for just long enough, then: "I'll be over there, we can go back to the hotel and I can introduce you to the guys." He sighed, returning to FlyQuest as I took up position by the exit of the hall. I saw him talking to them, putting on some kind of act, but they were too rapt in their training. His eyes were flicking towards me, making sure I was still there. I smiled. Soon we were headed back. We had our [[fifth|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Vic"]]! <</if>> <<else>> "Vic, right?" I had pulled his name from the board, and he met my gaze as I stood beside him, squared up and serving my most confident self, "I've watched your streams." "You're not my usual demo." He shifted back, gaining some air between himself and the rest of the team -- probably as a safety precaution. "I can't believe they won't let you rotate in." "Not as quick as I used to be." "As if! I've seen you destroy other squads just through your own lane, PUG or not." He grinned broadly and took me in, then glanced back at the screens. The conversation continued like that, gaining purchase with a look or a smile when I stroked his ego, but fangirling wasn't working. Eventually, I noticed the Boys had shown up and I hadn't even asked him. There never seemed to be an opportunity. Too late now, [[game time|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Loser"]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> approach. <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>>A hand brushed underneath my skirt boldly, my focus leaving me defenseless and I wasn't able to catch the perp. But it did insist I act now.<</if>></span> <<else>> I pushed through the crowd, trying to spy the green Q and leaf symbology. They didn't seem to be camping any of the competitive banks of computers, so they weren't training. They weren't at any of the meet and greet tables. Man, where were they? At least moving through the crowd seemed to save me from unwanted attention. I wasn't about to just go asking around in the manic environment -- a simple question to these types could open me up for a diatribe of condescension. Maybe they weren't even in the Hall. Maybe I was reaching too high for a top, US team that happened to have an alternate. And then I was <<shake 2s>>dropped<</shake>>, ass-first to the floor, as I came face-to-face with the exactly what I was looking for. "Shit!" I hit hard. His size and stature just treated me like a china shop. My <<print $Eyes>> lifted, taking in not just a member of FlyQuest, but **the** alternate, Vic. I don't know if it was my 'thank god' smile, that he felt bad, or what I looked like, but his countenance went from pissed at me being in his way to, "Oh shit. I'm sorry!" "It's okay, Vic!" I dusted myself off, and with a yank from him, I was back on my feet. He was incredulous, "Sorry, I was literally looking for you." More incredulous, "I'm sorry. I don't...know you?" I laughed and shook my head, "You're heading this way?" He nodded and I walked with him, no longer in his way, "I'm <<print $Name>>." "Well, uh, nice to meetcha. You were looking for **me**?" "You found me --" "Yeah, sorry 'bout that. I was a little...pissed. And I get it, they've got like a decade or so on me, and I __am__ the alternate, but the field is weak. Couldn't they afford to let me actually jungle once in a while?" "Oh shit, I'm sorry." "Yeah, yeah, well might as well quit. What's the point in just waiting around 'til I truly age out?" "Or...join another team." I smiled brightly up at him. He stopped and we stood at the exit of the Hall. He took me in. I gave a shrug, my hands lifted slightly. "That's why you were looking for me." I nodded. "For __me__?" I nodded. "I'm hungry. Let's talk about it over dinner?" I **nodded**. "Do you...watch FlyQuest streams or something?" "Uh, Honestly? No." He laughed. We went out and ate and I got us our [[fifth|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Vic"]]<</if>>With a shake of my head, I turned, heading to the gaming hall, ignoring their surprised calls and comments. This was clearly on me. The Hall was absolutely buzzing. Every team was logging hours before dinner, and probably would be returning afterward, to eke out whatever edge they could manage. I shouldered my way through the mass of bodies, some glassy-eyed at monitors, others waiting in line for a spot in a chair. And the reaction to my rare female energy was a a mix of opposites: there were certainly some hands far more adventurous than they should have been -- taking advantage of the confusion of the crowd; while the rest gave me a wide berth. Peeking over heads, I looked across the board listing tomorrow's schedule and competitors. Then a goosing from behind and yet another getting away scott-free, I knew I needed to choose and quick. Approaching the alternate for [[FlyQuest|HS002 - TwitchFly][$Excitable ++]] would be bold AF. There were the [[Unaffiliated|HS002 - TwitchUn]], of course. Or, I could take [[confidence|HS002 - TwitchApp][$MaleAttention ++; $Confident --]] as an indicator of skill.<<if $Cosplay == true && visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>><<set $TwitchWin ++>> There was something empowering -- and honestly, super fun -- walking to our bank of computers all dressed as our characters. It certainly would have been cooler if it had been all five, but we four were a statement. The impression we made was palpable, dressed as our mains. And we looked **good**. <</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Vic">><<set $TwitchWin += 7>><span id = "open"> The Boys were floored with me bringing back Vic. They were practically slobbering and even Andrew, who was our resident doomsayer, suddenly became a believer. We quickly hashed out our plans and strategies with Vic leading the discussion, and were as prepped as we were ever going to be as <<link "the Open began">><<replace "#open">><<if $Cosplay == true && visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>> I had not designed my outfit for these chairs. My butt was edged forward, since I had to make room for them between me and the back of the chair. My back was aching at the end of it all due to lack of support. But I looked damn good until the awkwardness of seating was involved. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, the miniskirt fully displaying my legs and framing between them, my knees adding lift and pressure to my bodice. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Academy">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. Once again, I was thankful for my choice of Ahri, protecting me from the worst of the elements and not exacerbating the extra cool clime. After a couple of rounds though, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair. Knee-high socks clinging to my legs on full display and skirt probably occasionally flashing extra peeks to the crowd. I couldn't get distracted, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Elder">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs, stomach, and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, bare toes curled around the front lip. The 'skirt' of leaves essentially underwear, fully displaying my legs and my underwear clutching between them, my knees pushing up and against my barely contained tits. From a lot of angles, I'm sure I looked practically naked. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <<else>> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. After a couple of rounds, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose in my chair. Habits die hard, but I was focused on the enemy base. <</if>><</if>> <<if $TwitchWin gt 10>><<set $Memories.push("TwitchOpenWin")>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. Honestly, we were crushing, vibing like we only managed on rare occasions. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. Another comp team fell to us and I knew the reason, not just me, but <<print $TwitchFifth>>. My heart was pounding in my chest. The Boys were leaned forward in their chairs. Were any of us blinking? My eyes hurt. The end of the field was ''tough''. The way they chewed through Ethan's lane was uncanny. I really began to see where we needed to improve. And then the final game ended. We held our breath, watching the shifting leaderboard on the wall. We hadn't won, but we had placed. In. The. Money. Each of us would walk with five hundred dollars. Crazy. We <<shake>>screamed<</shake>>! We clutched at each other, tears were welling in my dry eyes. We hugged and hugged. In the moment, I suddenly was kissing <<print $TwitchFifth>>, our tongue contact broken in the shock as <<print $Friend1>> nudged me with a gentle, "Uh, <<print $Name>>?" I was red faced. I couldn't look at anyone. Pulling up the tail of the group <<if $Cosplay == true>>, literally and figuratively,<</if>> we got in line for our winnings. I didn't say a word as <<print $TwitchFifth>> tried to say goodbye to me. After he left was when I noticed that the hall was strangely empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<elseif 5 < $TwitchWin < 10>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. I shook my head in disbelief. I checked in with the Boys and they were agog as well. We had actually crested a couple of the **real** competitive teams in the final standings. Not in the money, not qualifying, but certainly an spoiler. We jumped and hugged. High-fived. High-fived again. And I gave an extra squeeze to <<print $TwitchFifth>> and then said goodbye with some reddened cheeks as I noticed the way my __actual__ teammates were looking at me. He waved and headed off, thanking us for including him and 'killing it'. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<else>> <<set $TwitchOpenLoss = true>> I don't know what result I really expected, but it shouldn't have surprised me as the losses mounted and I had to talk Andrew off the cliff of withdrawing. We ended up below the competitive teams and mid-pack amongst the rest of the competition. We slid out of our chairs, barely able to maintain eye contact with each other, and especially to <<print $TwitchFifth>>. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle was over and we weren't the ony ones in the hall unhappy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <</if>><</replace>><</link>>.</span><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Loser">><<set $TwitchWin -= 2>><span id = "open"> Ryan Gary -- why it was a full name, and always a full name -- was not the most inspired of choices. His account W/L was pathetic, but I think the Boys felt comfortable with him because they were all superior. And so, that's who we had to rely on as <<link "the Open began">><<replace "#open">><<if $Cosplay == true && visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>> I had not designed my outfit for these chairs. My butt was edged forward, since I had to make room for them between me and the back of the chair. My back was aching at the end of it all due to lack of support. But I looked damn good until the awkwardness of seating was involved. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole 8 Mile song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, the miniskirt fully displaying my legs and framing between them, my knees adding lift and pressure to my bodice. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Academy">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole 8 Mile song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. Once again, I was thankful for my choice of Ahri, protecting me from the worst of the elements and not exacerbating the extra cool clime. After a couple of rounds though, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair. Knee-high socks clinging to my legs on full display and skirt probably occasionally flashing extra peeks to the crowd. I couldn't get distracted, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Elder">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole 8 Mile song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs, stomach, and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, bare toes curled around the front lip. The 'skirt' of leaves essentially underwear, fully displaying my legs and my underwear clutching between them, my knees pushing up and against my barely contained tits. From a lot of angles, I'm sure I looked practically naked. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <</if>><</if>> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole 8 Mile song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. After a couple of rounds, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose in my chair. Habits die hard, but I was focused on the enemy base. <<if $TwitchWin gt 10>><<set $Memories.push("TwitchOpenWin")>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. Honestly, we were crushing, vibing like we only managed on rare occasions. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. Another comp team fell to us and I knew the reason, not just me, but <<print $TwitchFifth>>. My heart was pounding in my chest. The Boys were leaned forward in their chairs. Were any of us blinking? My eyes hurt. The end of the field was **tough**. The way they chewed through Ethan's lane was uncanny. I really began to see where we needed to improve. And then the final game ended. We held our breath, watching the shifting leaderboard on the wall. We hadn't won, but we had placed. In. The. Money. Each of us would walk with five hundred dollars. Crazy. We <<shake 1s>>screamed<</shake>>! We clutched at each other, tears were welling in my dry eyes. We hugged and hugged. In the moment, I suddenly was kissing <<print $TwitchFifth>>, our tongue contact broken in the shock as <<print $Friend1>> nudged me with a gentle, "Uh, <<print $Name>>?" I was red faced. I couldn't look at anyone. Pulling up the tail of the group <<if $Cosplay == true>>, literally and figuratively,<</if>> we got in line for our winnings. I didn't say a word as <<print $TwitchFifth>> tried to say goodbye to me. After he left was when I noticed that the hall was strangely empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<elseif $TwitchWin gt 5 && $TwitchWin lte 10>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. I shook my head in disbelief. I checked in with the Boys and they were agog as well. We had actually crested a couple of the **real** competitive teams in the final standings. Not in the money, not qualifying, but certainly an spoiler. We jumped and hugged. High-fived. High-fived again. And I gave an extra squeeze to <<print $TwitchFifth>> and then said goodbye with some reddened cheeks as I noticed the way my __actual__ teammates were looking at me. He waved and headed off, thanking us for including him and 'killing it'. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<else>><<set $TwitchOpenLoss = true>> I don't know what result I really expected, but it shouldn't have surprised me as the losses mounted and I had to talk Andrew off the cliff of withdrawing. We ended up below the competitive teams and mid-pack amongst the rest of the competition. We slid out of our chairs, barely able to maintain eye contact with each other, and especially to <<print $TwitchFifth>>. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle was over and we weren't the ony ones in the hall unhappy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <</if>><</replace>><</link>>.</span><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Stud">><<set $TwitchWin -->><span id = "open"> When we returned to the hall, Chuck -- learned his name eventually -- actually held up his end of the bargain, grinning when he saw me and moving towards me and the Boys. They, on the other hand, were not too pleased when they saw him. They got quiet and <<link "the competition felt perfunctory">><<replace "#open">><<if $Cosplay == true && visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>> I had not designed my outfit for these chairs. My butt was edged forward, since I had to make room for them between me and the back of the chair. My back was aching at the end of it all due to lack of support. But I looked damn good until the awkwardness of seating was involved. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, the miniskirt fully displaying my legs and framing between them, my knees adding lift and pressure to my bodice. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Academy">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. Once again, I was thankful for my choice of Ahri, protecting me from the worst of the elements and not exacerbating the extra cool clime. After a couple of rounds though, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair. Knee-high socks clinging to my legs on full display and skirt probably occasionally flashing extra peeks to the crowd. I couldn't get distracted, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Elder">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs, stomach, and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, bare toes curled around the front lip. The 'skirt' of leaves essentially underwear, fully displaying my legs and my underwear clutching between them, my knees pushing up and against my barely contained tits. From a lot of angles, I'm sure I looked practically naked. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <</if>><</if>> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. After a couple of rounds, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose in my chair. Habits die hard, but I was focused on the enemy base. <<if $TwitchWin gt 10>><<set $Memories.push("TwitchOpenWin")>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. Honestly, we were crushing, vibing like we only managed on rare occasions. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. Another comp team fell to us and I knew the reason, not just me, but <<print $TwitchFifth>>. My heart was pounding in my chest. The Boys were leaned forward in their chairs. Were any of us blinking? My eyes hurt. The end of the field was **tough**. The way they chewed through Ethan's lane was uncanny. I really began to see where we needed to improve. And then the final game ended. We held our breath, watching the shifting leaderboard on the wall. We hadn't won, but we had placed. In. The. Money. Each of us would walk with five hundred dollars. Crazy. We <<shake>>screamed<</shake>>! We clutched at each other, tears were welling in my dry eyes. We hugged and hugged. In the moment, I suddenly was kissing <<print $TwitchFifth>>, our tongue contact broken in the shock as <<print $Friend1>> nudged me with a gentle, "Uh, <<print $Name>>?" I was red faced. I couldn't look at anyone. Pulling up the tail of the group <<if $Cosplay == true>>, literally and figuratively,<</if>> we got in line for our winnings. I didn't say a word as <<print $TwitchFifth>> tried to say goodbye to me. After he left was when I noticed that the hall was strangely empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<elseif $TwitchWin gt 5 && $TwitchWin lte 10>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. I shook my head in disbelief. I checked in with the Boys and they were agog as well. We had actually crested a couple of the **real** competitive teams in the final standings. Not in the money, not qualifying, but certainly an spoiler. We jumped and hugged. High-fived. High-fived again. And I gave an extra squeeze to <<print $TwitchFifth>> and then said goodbye with some reddened cheeks as I noticed the way my __actual__ teammates were looking at me. He waved and headed off, thanking us for including him and 'killing it'. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<else>><<set $TwitchOpenLoss = true>> I don't know what result I really expected, but it shouldn't have surprised me as the losses mounted and I had to talk Andrew off the cliff of withdrawing. We ended up below the competitive teams and mid-pack amongst the rest of the competition. We slid out of our chairs, barely able to maintain eye contact with each other, and especially to <<print $TwitchFifth>>. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle was over and we weren't the ony ones in the hall unhappy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>.</span><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Elijah">><<set $TwitchWin += $learning>><span id = "open"> Elijah fell into the fold easily, despite being younger than us. There was a bit of friction with adolescent male pride, but once the competition began, <<link "everyone was on the same page">><<replace "#open">><<if $Cosplay == true && visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>> I had not designed my outfit for these chairs. My butt was edged forward, since I had to make room for them between me and the back of the chair. My back was aching at the end of it all due to lack of support. But I looked damn good until the awkwardness of seating was involved. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, the miniskirt fully displaying my legs and framing between them, my knees adding lift and pressure to my bodice. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Academy">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. Once again, I was thankful for my choice of Ahri, protecting me from the worst of the elements and not exacerbating the extra cool clime. After a couple of rounds though, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair. Knee-high socks clinging to my legs on full display and skirt probably occasionally flashing extra peeks to the crowd. I couldn't get distracted, though. <<elseif $Costume == "Elder">> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. I was practically shivering, goosebumps on goosebumps, rubbing my moist palms on my bare thighs, stomach, and arms between matches to try and warm up a bit, which was giving a jiggling show to absolutely every onlooker, but it was either care about winning or care about decency. The crowd was pleased. After a couple rounds, either I got used to the sensation, or was too focused on the competition to care anymore. In the back of my mind from time to time I noticed that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose on the chair, bare toes curled around the front lip. The 'skirt' of leaves essentially underwear, fully displaying my legs and my underwear clutching between them, my knees pushing up and against my barely contained tits. From a lot of angles, I'm sure I looked practically naked. I couldn't get distracted by the occasional video or picture, though. <</if>><</if>> When I get nervous, I feel cold. Palms sweaty, the whole song thing. And the Open was a whole 'nother level of nervous adrenaline. Normally, I'd be wearing sweats and comfy in my room, leaning into my knees with my feet up on my chair. Not today. After a couple of rounds, I noticed in the back of my mind that I had returned to my gargoyle-like pose in my chair. Habits die hard, but I was focused on the enemy base. <<if $TwitchWin gt 10>><<set $Memories.push("TwitchOpenWin")>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. Honestly, we were crushing, vibing like we only managed on rare occasions. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. Another comp team fell to us and I knew the reason, not just me, but <<print $TwitchFifth>>. My heart was pounding in my chest. The Boys were leaned forward in their chairs. Were any of us blinking? My eyes hurt. The end of the field was **tough**. The way they chewed through Ethan's lane was uncanny. I really began to see where we needed to improve. And then the final game ended. We held our breath, watching the shifting leaderboard on the wall. We hadn't won, but we had placed. In. The. Money. Each of us would walk with five hundred dollars. Crazy. We <<shake>>screamed<</shake>>! We clutched at each other, tears were welling in my dry eyes. We hugged and hugged. In the moment, I suddenly was kissing <<print $TwitchFifth>>, our tongue contact broken in the shock as <<print $Friend1>> nudged me with a gentle, "Uh, <<print $Name>>?" I was red faced. I couldn't look at anyone. Pulling up the tail of the group <<if $Cosplay == true>>, literally and figuratively,<</if>> we got in line for our winnings. I didn't say a word as <<print $TwitchFifth>> tried to say goodbye to me. After he left was when I noticed that the hall was strangely empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<elseif $TwitchWin gt 5 && $TwitchWin lte 10>> The first couple rounds felt pretty typical to our weekly PUGs, and we won. It was only about midway through that I began to realize -- especially with the looks that <<print $TwitchFifth>> was giving me -- that we were doing far beyond expectations. And those looks told me what I kinda always knew to be true: my Ahri really was the strength of the team. Then we beat the first truly competitive team: "No one will stand in my way!" I called out, in my best impression, and received laughs and applause. I shook my head in disbelief. I checked in with the Boys and they were agog as well. We had actually crested a couple of the **real** competitive teams in the final standings. Not in the money, not qualifying, but certainly an spoiler. We jumped and hugged. High-fived. High-fived again. And I gave an extra squeeze to <<print $TwitchFifth>> and then said goodbye with some reddened cheeks as I noticed the way my __actual__ teammates were looking at me. He waved and headed off, thanking us for including him and 'killing it'. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle of the Open was over and many of those in the hall weren't happy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <<else>> <<set $TwitchOpenLoss = true>> I don't know what result I really expected, but it shouldn't have surprised me as the losses mounted and I had to talk Andrew off the cliff of withdrawing. We ended up below the competitive teams and mid-pack amongst the rest of the competition. We slid out of our chairs, barely able to maintain eye contact with each other, and especially to <<print $TwitchFifth>>. And then I noticed the hall was suddenly very different. Very empty. At first, I thought it was that the spectacle was over and we weren't the ony ones in the hall unhappy with the result. But, then I realized the sudden and mass exodus wasn't just for the Open players -- the [[Cosplay competition|HS002 - TwitchCC]] was about to begin. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>.</span><</if>>There were so many options. Too many. Guys who loved League so much they had come to only __watch__. Others were grabbing empty chairs to play, more to see who they could beat on their own than anything else. And some had come to test their mettle and maybe join one of the elite squads. Any of them could have been competent, better or worse. I could watch them play and see if I could pick out who might be the best skilled. I settled in to a rhythmic cadence: watch them in their lane, watch their choices in base, listen to their comms, but most importantly -- see who they mained; judge and move; judge and move. <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri") || visited("HS002 - TwitchEarly")>> Given the hour, there were far fewer prospects, which meant fewer to wade through, but also not much time to make a decision. <<if visited("HS002 - TwitchAhri")>> My rhythm was constantly being interrupted. <<if $Costume == "Prestige">>I realized I had to, essentially stand up straight or I'd find a phone trying to catch a good angle one way or the other, and I couldn't get close to the players due to the clumps of viewers.<</if>><<if $Costume == "Elder">>I think I swatted more hands in that half hour than bugs in my **life**. Every grope, I __moved__.<</if>><<if $Costume == "Academy">>A picture with me? Oh, sure. My costume's awesome, wow, um thank you.<</if>> I had to cut my losses. I couldn't keep focused, so I ducked out of the hall and wondered who they Boys[[would settle on|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Loser"]]. <</if>> Eventually I settled on this pimply kid who absolutely destroyed with Volibear. He had won a match and was shifting out of his seat, shit-eating grin across his face. "Nice one!" "Yeah, y-" he was halfway into what felt pretty planned and then he was shocked into silence seeing who was talking to him. "They didn't stand a chance. How are you not competing in the Open?" playing it off. "I mean, I coulda. Just...ya know, not ''that'' important." Cool guy had come back. Though the mask wasn't very practiced. "You want to, though? I could use a fifth on my team." "Your team?" He was stunned. World-view completely called into question. "Yeah, I've always argued we needed a Voli." "Uh sure, yeah. I'm down." "Come on then, let's introduce you..." I trailed off as we walked, heading out of the hall and back to the rooms. He hadn't gotten the hint, "<<print $Name>>. That's me." "Oh, right. Elijah." Okay, he would recover quick enough to [[play|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Elijah"]]. <<else>> Woof. So many people, luckily time was on my side. It was a slog and my brain hurt from all the mental notes, I was making, but eventually I settled on this pimply kid who absolutely destroyed with Volibear. He had won a match and was shifting out of his seat, shit-eating grin across his face. "Nice one!" "Yeah, y-" he was halfway into what felt pretty planned and then he was shocked into silence seeing who was talking to him. "They didn't stand a chance. How are you not competing in the Open?" playing it off. "I mean, I coulda. Just...ya know, not **that** important." Cool guy had come back. Though the mask wasn't very practiced. "You want to, though? I could use a fifth on my team." "Your team?" He was stunned. World-view completely called into question. "Yeah, I've always argued we needed a Voli." "Uh sure, yeah. I'm down." "Come on then, let's introduce you..." I trailed off as we walked, heading out of the hall and back to the rooms. He hadn't gotten the hint, "<<print $Name>>. That's me." "Oh, right. Elijah." Okay, he would recover quick enough to [[play|HS002 - TwitchOpen][$TwitchFifth = "Elijah"]]. <</if>><<set $Modelhire = $Attractiveness>> <<if $activity == "dance" && $hsv == "act">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "power" && $hsv == "cheer">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $hometown == "NY" || $hometown == "LA">> I wasn't sure how <<print $DName>> and <<print $MName>> would feel about the idea of modeling -- especially with the office being <<if $hometown == "LA">>next to Skid Row<<else>>in Greenpoint<</if>> -- but I was determined to take a shot. A quick Google had confirmed the agency on the card, location, and surfaced some references across the Web. So, legit? With nerves on top of nerves, I headed down to the address on the business card. I may have skipped one of my last classes. I definitely didn't tell anyone where I was going. I was not about to risk asking for a ride, so public transportation it was. I was by far the most done-up person around and wasn't wearing the most comfortable clothes on earth. They hadn't said I needed to wear anything in particular, but I wouldn't miss an opportunity to dress to impress. My knuckles [[rapped on the door|HS002 - CastingProf]] as I tried to swallow and get rid of this dry mouth. <<else>> I wasn't sure how <<print $DName>> and <<print $MName>> would feel about the idea of modeling -- there was a nagging at the back of my head that couldn't quite place anyone in particular that had been discovered in my neck of the woods. But I was determined to take a shot. A quick Google had confirmed the location on the card, though there was a blank when it came to the agency. A search of my area didn't pull up other agencies...so it was all in line, I guess. Legit, probably? With nerves on top of nerves, I headed down to the address on the business card. I may have skipped one of my last classes. I definitely didn't tell anyone where I was going. I was not about to risk asking for a ride, so public transportation it was. I was by far the most done-up person around and wasn't wearing the most comfortable clothes on earth. They hadn't said I needed to wear anything in particular, but I wouldn't miss an opportunity to dress to impress. My knuckles [[rapped on the door|HS002 - CastingSeed]] as I tried to swallow and get rid of this dry mouth. <</if>>The door buzzed and I pressed inside, seeing a middle-aged woman behind a desk, barely glancing up before returning to the stack of paper on her desk. They used paper? "Appointment?" "Uh..." "Sit." A quick hand motion and, as if she were moving me like a marionette, I dropped into a chair. Time passed. I wondered if I had been forgotten. Then, "Ms. <<print $Surname>>, down the hall to your left. Look for Adam's door. Should be open." My head bobbing a nod as it felt like I was darting out of the waiting room and down the hall, my eyes tracked side to side across nameplates and seeing, "Adam Marcus" I poked my head in the slightly ajar doorway. A pair of bedraggled eyes lifted from behind the desk...man, did //anyone// like their jobs here? He sighed, pushing some pictures and folders aside on his desk, more for changing gears than needing to make space. "<<print $Name>> <<print $Surname>>, yeah?" He stood, stretching and used his head to instruct me in and over towards a wall where there was a grey butcher paper roll extended to the floor and lighting soft boxes ready to go. "Thanks for coming in, Jared told me he gave you the card what...in a CVS?" Nodding, he laughed and rolled his eyes, "Ugh. Well, as much as I'd love for this to work out for you, I don't want //another// amazing discovery stories going around. It's just not how it works, really." "Oh, of course not." "Except in your case." "Right?" He smiled, I could tell he was trying to put me at ease as he slowly rounded his world-weary desk and got behind his camera, pre-set on a tripod. "Right. Just don't fuel the fire, come up with some unbearable tale of the number of casting calls you went to...hundreds upon hundreds of pretty faces, girls looking just like you...Alright. Time for the swimsuit set. Guessing Jared didn't give you the details of today?" It was then that I realized he'd been subtly guiding me, fully disarmed, through the first set of pictures. Front, side, side, full-body, headshot, smiling and commercial...jesus, this guy was good. And quick. "Uh, no. I didn't bring anything with me..." "Speaking of which...you came alone?" An awkward nod. "Shit." "W-what? I'm sorry--" "Oh, no no no, this is ''not'' your fault. Guessing Carol didn't mention paperwork? Give you anything?" The not-smile that I gave him was enough, "Okay. Well, there are parental release forms, and waivers that need to be signed. Emphasis on need. They won't be done today, clearly." I chuckled, trying to play it off, "Clearly." "But we'll send you home with them and we can't proceed until we get those squared away. Understood?" A firm, paternal-like look. I nodded. "Okay. Well, we could either wait for that or continue, but it's up to you, <<print $Name>>." <<if $Stable gte ($Risky + $Excitable)>>I had to get home and [[get those papers|HS002 - CastingPapers][$Confident --]] in order. NOW. <<else>> Papers? And have a no before I even started? That could wait. But I wasn't going to strip down in this cold empty room. There had to be a [[changing area|HS002 - Profesh]]. <<if $Undies == "Commando">> It'd be awkward in [[just a bra|HS002 - Profesh]], but I figured he'd seen thousands of women in less. <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Easy gt 0>> I figured he's seen thousands of women [[fully naked|HS002 - Profesh]].<</if>><</if>><</if>><<set $investigation ++>><<set $deception ++>> I cleared my throat all through dinner, <<print $MName>> looking across the table after the first few minutes, "You alright, dear?" and <<print $DName>> chuckled, "Trying to call in sick tomorrow?" Blowing it off with an awkward, "Nooo..." I tried to lock down on my tic, but occasionally found myself fighting phantom phlegm. By the time it was done, I had decided on who to ask. Just a John Hancock, right? <<if $Mom == 1 && $Dad == 0>><<print $EDName>> would do the trick. I waited until we had some time together, just the two of us. "Hey, um, so...like crazy story." "Uh-oh." He was smiling //and// frowning. "No, no." "Why aren't you telling your Mom?" "I will, eventually. Maybe. I just don't know if she'll understand." "Honey. Usually mothers are...better at these things. That doesn't mean I don't //want// to--I'm only not sure that--" "''Dad''. Can I just...show you something?" And so I pulled out my phone, giving the preface I had prepped over the past couple days and <<if visited("HS002 - Profesh")>>started showing him the pictures, reassuring him before we got to the underwear shots.<<else>>pulled up the information about the agency and the card and how that abortive first session went. How Adam was.<</if>> He considered. I could tell he was uncomfortable with his little girl, but he could hear my excitement. "Okay. Just. Do me a favor. Two favors. Be careful." I rolled my eyes. "And tell your mother." Another eye roll, this time with a smile. And he signed. <<elseif $Dad == 1 || $Dad == 2>><<print $MName>> tended to be more...permissive. So, I waited for a moment when he wasn't around -- didn't want to deal with any aspect of a Daddy's little girl syndrome -- before launching in. "Whoah, whoah, whoah." She laughed at my rapid-fire talking, waving her hand at the papers that just suddenly appeared in front of her with all that tiny text. "What is going ''on'' here, <<print $Name>>?" I swallowed, took a breath. "So. Out of nowhere, I got scouted." "Scouted?" "You know how big a deal that is? I was just like...walking through SEE-VEE-ESS and I got //scouted//..." She nodded, eyes narrowing, thinking. "Mom." My hand touched hers, not putting it on the pen, just contact. I could see the reaction, though she tried to mask it, "Okay. Just...don't run off on your own. Keep me in the loop." She was signing, barely reading...I hadn't either, "And," she lowered her voice conspiratorially, "We'll keep him //out// of the loop as long as possible." "I love you." That reaction she didn't try to cover. <<else>><<print $DName>>, always Daddy's girl even to not-my-Dad. He was harder to nail down and I had to wait until <<print $MName>> was out running errands before trying my luck, "So ya know how you always hear about some random actor or celebrity just getting found on like, the street...outta nowhere?" "And football players too, sometimes." Oblivious, but at least he was engaging. Before he could tell me the tale of some amazing football discovery, "Well, I was." "You were...oh, you're famous now?" He gave me a look as if it were some game. He hadn't connected the dots. "Ugh. I got ''scouted''. I wanna try modeling. I might have a shot." His chin jutted forward a bit, nodding and a casual little shrug, "Sure." Wow, I thought that'd be harder. He smiled a bit, surprised as if he hadn't realized I came fully cocked and ready, but he signed and then went into what he wanted to talk about: Kurt Warner. Whatever. <</if>> <<if $Modelhire gte random(6, 10)>><<if visited("HS002 - Profesh")>>And then came the call from [[Adam|HS002 - FirstShoot]].<<else>>When I returned the papers, an associate gave me a perfunctory set of shots and politely kicked me out of the studio. And then came the call from [[Adam|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <</if>><<else>>And I waited (patiently?) [[by the phone|HS002 - ModelOutro]].<</if>><<if $Undies == "Commando">> There was a split-second between what he had expected and what was happening. He lurched forward, hands outstretched, but then recoiling back -- as if his body was fighting itself, "No-no-no-s-stop, please." I stopped. My <<print $Eyes>> eyes giant, worried. My hands frozen halfway through depositing my <<link "top">><<upper>><</link>>. He shielded his eyes. "What?" came my sheepish bleat. "Could you...um." He motioned off to the side of his setup, a changing area. Shit. "Oh, s-sure. Sorry, so sorry." I stumbled over behind the room divider, clutching my clothes as modestly as possible. I was absolutely beet-red. <<link "Stripping">><<lower>><<feet>><</link>> down behind the //specific// //thing// //made// //for// //this//, I felt like such a noob. Such an idiot. I hadn't wanted to make him uncomfortable and the silence was deafening. "There's some spanks and a few sports bras back there if you need them..." The kindness in his voice made it worse, "Don't worry, they're fresh." I didn't respond, just <<link "pulling on">><<bra "bra">><<panties "panties_simple">><</link>> the necessaries and stepping out from behind the separator. "Really, I'm--" he shook his head and motioned me over to the drop and I shuffled over as pliantly as possible. "Great. Same as before..." We went through another cycle of shots and then he gave a casual, bright move of his head, indicating the panels again, "You can leave those back there, or take them with you, and then we'll go through what we've taken. How's that sound?" Nodding, I moved behind, and despite the offer, underwear still didn't strike me as comfortable, so I deposited them as carefully as I could near where I had taken them and came back out: <<link "clothed">><<undress>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">><</link>>. "Alright, ready for the assessment?" He was already behind his desk again, a small monitor arranged towards the chairs on my side. I deposited myself into one of them and leaned forward, excited, trying to push down the embarrassment of moments before. He made it easy. He began flicking through the digital photos, rapid fire, settling on:<<if $Bodytraits.includes("eyes")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> one where a sparkle had settled into my <<print $Eyes>> eyes, "You've got very welcoming and interesting eyes."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("face")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a close up that framed me from neck to crown, "The camera really likes you -- you see that?" I nodded. It did.<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("smile")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a picture where I must have been laughing at something he said, "I can't help but smile too...you've got an infectious one." He made me smile again.<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a half-body crop, from when I had undressed, "Just getting into the real part of the biz, now. Your breasts are...eye catching."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>> a photo he had caught while I was mid-motion, turning for him, "Your body's tone is fantastic. Whatever you do, or don't do...keep it up." He laughed. I shrugged.<<set $Modelhire ++>><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("ass")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> he coughed as he stopped on one of me facing away from him, "Underwear, bikinis, hell even a good pair of jeans? You'd compliment them well."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> I had been slightly in relevé, "An aspect that is key for any model, the ratio of your legs is perfect."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("charm")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a slow rotation of a few he had caught, I must have been talking, "You're so natural, not even doing anything, the camera is pulled to you."<</if>> finally, a full-body, straight on, <<if $Height gt 0>>"Got a stature that works for all kinds of work, even runway."<<else>>"Just being honest. You aren't going to hit the runway, so it does narrow the work you can do."<<set $Modelhire -->><</if>> His eyes checked in with me, considering my reaction. He pushed a set of papers towards me, "Take care of these and here..." he pointed to one he pulled apart from the rest, "Give me your email and I can send you over all the pictures we took today. And then? You'll either hear from me or you won't. But we've got you on file and we'll see what comes in." I nodded, couldn't help but feel defeated as I stood, straightening my clothes nervously. "A pleasure meeting you, <<print $Name>>," his hand extended. I took it. I left and wondered if I'd [[hear from him again|HS002 - CastingPapers]].<<else>> "Do you have anywhere I could..." His frown made me wonder if I had made a misstep. I mean, he had probably seen tons of women wearing nothing. "...change?" He laughed and nodded, pointing over to the room divider, "Or there's a bathroom down the hall, whatever you're comfortable with." I was beet-red. How had I not seen that? I laughed and shuffled off behind it, where there were some packaged Spanx and flesh-toned <<link "underwear">><<lower>><<feet>><<upper>><<panties "panties_simple">><<bra "bra">><</link>> to fill the gaps, should anyone come unprepared. Leaving my outerwear behind, I came out from behind the separator. "Great. Same as before..." We went through another cycle of shots and then he gave a casual, bright move of his head, indicating the panels again, "Once you're <<link "done">><<undress>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">><</link>>, we'll go through what we've taken. How's that sound?" "Sure thing!" I called out, returning to the other side of the curtain as I finished straightening my clothing. "Alright, ready for the assessment?" He was already behind his desk again, a small monitor arranged towards the chairs on my side. I deposited myself into one of them and leaned forward, excited, trying to push down the embarrassment of moments before. He made it easy. He began flicking through the digital photos, rapid fire, settling on:<<if $Bodytraits.includes("eyes")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> one where a sparkle had settled into my <<print $Eyes>> eyes, "You've got very welcoming and interesting eyes."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("face")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a close up that framed me from neck to crown, "The camera really likes you -- you see that?" I nodded. It did.<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("smile")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a picture where I must have been laughing at something he said, "I can't help but smile too...you've got an infectious one." He made me smile again.<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a half-body crop, from when I had undressed, "Just getting into the real part of the biz, now. Your breasts are...eye catching."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>> a photo he had caught while I was mid-motion, turning for him, "Your body's tone is fantastic. Whatever you do, or don't do...keep it up." He laughed. I shrugged.<<set $Modelhire ++>><</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("ass")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> he coughed as he stopped on one of me facing away from him, "Underwear, bikinis, hell even a good pair of jeans? You'd compliment them well."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> I had been slightly in relevé, "An aspect that is key for any model, the ratio of your legs is perfect."<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("charm")>><<set $Modelhire ++>> a slow rotation of a few he had caught, I must have been talking, "You're so natural, not even doing anything, the camera is pulled to you."<</if>> finally, a full-body, straight on, <<if $Height gt 0>>"Got a stature that works for all kinds of work, even runway."<<else>>"Just being honest. You aren't going to hit the runway, so it does narrow the work you can do."<<set $Modelhire -->><</if>> His eyes checked in with me, considering my reaction. He pushed a set of papers towards me, "Take care of these and here..." he pointed to one he pulled apart from the rest, "Give me your email and I can send you over all the pictures we took today. And then? You'll either hear from me or you won't. But we've got you on file and we'll see what comes in." I nodded, couldn't help but feel defeated as I stood, tugging at my clothes nervously. "A pleasure meeting you, <<print $Name>>," his hand extended. I took it. I left and wondered if I'd [[hear from him again|HS002 - CastingPapers]].<</if>><<set $Modelhire ++>> The door opened. A middle-aged man stood there, immediately appraising me. "Well, hello there." <<if $Confident gt 1>>I lifted the card as a challenge, "I was given this." "Right, right, right! Well, my scouts definitely have an eye, come in, come in..." He stepped back with a broad, welcoming grin and letting me into the office. Entering the unimpressive and bare space, I felt him peer out behind me into the hallway, "Alone?" the tone was genuine shock. "Yeah, came straight from school." He nodded, shutting the door and leading me in, unperturbed, motioning over to a black pleather couch to one side. "Yeah, we'll just have to do the parental releases later. They do know you're here, right?" A conspiratorial raise of the eyebrow. "No." He laughed and nodded, dropping himself into a chair behind a decade-old IKEA desk. "I'd rather ask forgiveness than permission." He raised a meaty hand, "My mantra. Adam, by the way." "<<print $Name>>." Another smile, reaching over the desk to press a button on a camcorder on a tripod, his heavy gut pushing across the desktop, "Shall we start, <<print $Name>>?" I stood in front of the camera and maneuvered like I had seen online. Front, Side, Side, back to front. "Oh, you're a vet?" I laughed and shook my head, "Nah, just seen what to do." He chuckled, leaning back in his chair impressed, <<if $Height gt 0>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Hm, should be able to get runway work with a beanpole like you."<<elseif $Height lt 0>>"Runway is __not__ in your future, cutie, sorry."<<else>>"Hm, versatile, not a straight-up runway, but..."<</if>> I nodded and shrugged, "Just how I'm built." He nodded and motioned with a 'proceed' spin of his hand. "Speaking of which, let's continue the assessment." He picked up a polaroid camera and, leaning back, snapped a full-body, setting the picture on the desk. "Sit back down and gimme yer most casual, best smile..." He moved around the desk, squatting in front of me as he lined up and pulled the trigger again. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("smile")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Wow, you've got a gorgeous grin, girlie." Heat rose in my cheeks, "Thank you." <</if>> "Alright, now--" cut off as I immediately went Blue Steel, he smiled broadly behind the camera, leaned forward and snapped again. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("face")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>His hand reached out and I felt the fatty pads of his thumb and forefingers on my jawline, adjusting my skull slightly, "Cameras have to ''love'' your face." Carefully, I plucked my chin from his hand, smiling, "It is easy to get a good selfie." <<if $Bodytraits.includes("eyes")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>There was a brief moment of silence and stillness, his gaze locked on mine, "You can get lost in your eyes. Open, big, expressive..." I couldn't resist taking a 'look around the room' to break the moment.<</if>><</if>> He stood, shaking his head, the air of impressed unmistakable, "Ya sure yer not a vet?" Returning a shake of my own head, with an air of ease, "The internet teaches you things." "It does...it does. Okay," he reached back, placing the new polaroids on the desk, "Probably don't need to say this, but next, swimsuit." Just strip down on camera? There had to be a [[changing room|HS002 - SeedyUndies]]. <<if $Undies == "Commando">> It'd be awkward in [[just a bra|HS002 - SeedyNaked]], but I figured he'd seen thousands of women in less. <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Easy gt 0>> I figured he's seen thousands of women [[fully naked|HS002 - SeedyNaked]]. <</if>><</if>> <<else>>I awkwardly flashed the card, "Uh, the other day..." "Right, right, right! Well, my scouts definitely have an eye, come in, come in..." He stepped back with a broad, welcoming grin and letting me into the office. I moved in, timid as a mouse -- the office was spare and uninviting. I felt him peer out behind me into the hallway, "Alone?" the tone was genuine shock. "N...no? That's okay?" He nodded, shutting the door and leading me in, unperturbed, motioning over to a black pleather couch to one side. "Yeah, we'll just have to do the parental releases later. They do know you're here, right?" A conspiratorial raise of the eyebrow. I gulped -- had I just killed the opportunity? He laughed at the deer in headlights on his couch, dropping himself into a chair behind a decade-old IKEA desk. "Ask __forgiveness__ not permission, my mantra too. No worries, girlie! Adam, by the way." "<<print $Name>>." Another smile, reaching over the desk to press a button on a camcorder on a tripod, his heavy gut pushing across the desktop, "Shall we start, <<print $Name>>?" Giving a nod, he motioned for me to stand and I jerked back up onto my feet. With practiced gestures, he guided me through a series of positions: Front, Side, Side, back to front. "Good. Good. Remember these, early on, you'll be doing a lot of these as you get your initial sessions in the books. My head twitched, suddenly smiling right at him, "You t-think so?" He chuckled, leaning back in his chair, considering me. <<if $Height gt 0>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Hm, should be able to get runway work with a beanpole like you."<<elseif $Height lt 0>>"Runway is __not__ in your future, cutie, sorry."<<else>>"Hm, versatile, not a straight-up runway, but..."<</if>> "Yeah...s-sorry." "Can't change what you can't change. Just gotta know how to impress people with what you have -- how to market the ''product''. Let's continue my assessment." He picked up a polaroid camera and, leaning back, snapped a full-body, setting the picture on the desk. "Sit back down and gimme yer most casual, best smile..." He moved around the desk, squatting in front of me as he lined up and pulled the trigger again. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("smile")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Wow, you've got a gorgeous grin, girlie." Heat rose in my cheeks, "Thank you." <</if>> "Alright, now I need you to drop the smile. Cool, serious, sexy, right at me." I gave it a shot. He leaned in and snapped again. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("face")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>His hand reached out and I felt the fatty pads of his thumb and forefingers on my jawline, adjusting my skull slightly, "Cameras have to ''love'' your face." I could practically able to feel his breath from how close we were, but held still. "Cameras...shit, //eyes// love it." <<if $Bodytraits.includes("eyes")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>There was a brief moment of silence and stillness, his gaze locked on mine, "You can get lost in your eyes. Open, big, expressive..." I couldn't resist taking a 'look around the room' to break the moment.<</if>><</if>> He stood, nodding, thinking as he leaned against the front edge of the desk. "Okay," he reached back, placing the new polaroids on the desk, "Next up are what we call swimsuit shots. And I'm guessing you didn't bring one..." He smiled, knowingly. I shook my head, "Course not, so underwear is fine. Same difference, really." <<if $Undies !== "Commando">> Just strip down on camera? There had to be a [[changing room|HS002 - SeedyUndies]].<</if>> <<if $Undies == "Commando">> It'd be awkward in [[just a bra|HS002 - SeedyNaked]], but I figured he'd seen thousands of women in less. <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Easy gt 0>> I figured he's seen thousands of women [[fully naked|HS002 - SeedyNaked]]. <</if>><</if>> <</if>><<nobr>> <<set $Modelhire -->> "Uh, is there somewhere I could..." my eyes checked in with the red light on the camcorder, letting my discomfort show. He nodded, bottling in the sigh that I heard anyway. <br><br> "Not like a room or area to change...but I can turn around. Promise." My eyes flicked back to the camcorder again. He nodded, laughing, "Oh right, one sec" as if he had forgotten, and hit pause. Light was off. He turned and I began a quick <<linkreplace "strip">> <<silently>><<upper>><<feet>><<lower>><</silently>>strip, not trusting his timing on turning back around. I collected my clothes into a pile and set them beside the couch. <br><br> "Kay. Thank you." He turned around, eyes sliding over my bared form. He reached out, pause again and the light resumed red. His free hand reached over to the tripod arm, swiveling the lens down my body slowly. My nipples were tensing and perking up underneath my bra, unbidden. <br><br> This was fine, right? <br><br> The camcorder settled back straight-on and he lifted the polaroid to snap a full-on, chest level, crotch-level and then, "Side on? Remember?" he smiled kindly and I turned and gave him the turn, picture, turn, picture. <br><br> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("ass")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"You'd kill a swimsuit shoot." His eyes squarely on my rear.<</if>> "You can sit." Sitting, I crossed my legs, playing off my state of undress. <br><br> He set the polaroids down with the camera and shifted his hefty body off the edge of the desk, moving to join me on the couch. It squeaked and sighed as the prolific weight settled into the cheap cushions. "Going to get a little hands-on, if that's okay, for the next part of the appraisal..." he trailed off gently, kindly, but looking for my consent and comfort level. <br><br> I scooted back, giving us more space, "I uh..." <br><br> He sighed, shaking his head, "Fine, fine, don't freak out about it, girlie." <br><br> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>A general hand wave near my chest, "You got a great set."<</if>> He looked down over me, leaning against the arm of the couch, <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>>"Flat, amazing tone on your tummy..."<</if>> <br><br> <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"You could definitely model with legs like these." He gave them a pat pat, I gave him that much.<</if>> "Appraisal's complete, you can relax, <<print $Name>>." He lifted himself up off the couch with a grunt. <br><br> "Well...What's the verdict?" <br><br> <<if $Modelhire gt 7>> "I'm surprised you have to ask. No wonder you got scouted. You'll book." <br><br> I practically squealed inside. I didn't //have// to do anything to get work. "Cool. Thank you." <br><br> "You're welcome, girlie." He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to <<linkreplace "dress.">> <<silently>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<lower "denimSkirt">><<upper "shirtSparrow_" + $Tits>><</silently>>dress, his gaze averted and I wasn't going to fight him about the camcorder this time. <br><br> I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door. <br><br> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd truly [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <</linkreplace>> <<else>> "Well...honestly--" <br><br> "Really? Fuck." <br><br> "Hey, hey now, you're beautiful. You've got a great attitude, a good look. I'll certainly put feelers out there." He smiled amiably. <br><br> "Cool. Thank you." <br><br> "You're welcome, girlie." He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to dress. I wasn't going to fight him about the camcorder this time. <br><br> I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door. <br><br> <<if $Modelhire gte random(1,10)>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - ModelOutro]]. <</if>> <</if>> <</linkreplace>> <</nobr>><<set $Modelhire ++>><<link "Top">><<upper>><</link>> first. <<linkreplace "Skirt">><<lower>>There was a split-second between when he expected underwear and when he realized otherwise. <<link "Shoes">><<feet>><</link>>. I heard a cough, trying to cover his reaction as my <<if $Braless == true>>top<<else>>clothes<</if>> hit the floor. I looked up to the expressionless stare of the camcorder and Adam, side by side. My toes awkwardly nudged my clump of clothes aside, feeling my unshielded skin prickling at the cool air, my tits jiggling <<if $Braless == true>>in the only clothing I had on<<else>>freely<</if>>, drawing his eyes down. And they went down further. His calmness was the assurance that it was fine. His free hand reached over to the tripod arm, swiveling the lens down my naked body slowly. My nipples were tensing and perking up. This was fine, right? The camcorder settled back straight-on and he lifted the polaroid to snap a full-on, chest level, crotch-level and then, "Side on? Remember?" he smiled kindly and I turned and gave him the turn, picture, turn, picture. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("ass")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Even without, I can tell you'd kill a swimsuit shoot." His eyes squarely on my rear.<</if>> "You can sit." Doing so was going to give a direct view of my slit, so I crossed my legs, as if I weren't just in my birthday suit. "Can't say I'm often surprised, but color me impressed, girlie. This your usual?" I nodded and laughed, trying to clear the tension in the air, at least for myself, "Yeah, underwear sucks." "Well, you wear not wearing it well. Your attitude and comfort are definitely useful in the biz, comes naturally to you, huh?" I gave a 'yeah' shrug. He set the polaroids down with the camera and shifted his hefty body off the edge of the desk, moving to join me on the couch. It squeaked and sighed as the prolific weight settled into the cheap cushions. "Going to get a little hands-on, if that's okay, for the next part of the appraisal..." he trailed off gently, kindly, but looking for my consent and comfort level. <div id = "nekkid"> <<if $Easy gt 2 || $Risky gt 2 || $Suggestible gt 2 || $MaleReaction gt 2>><<link "I scooted closer">><<replace "#nekkid">><<set $Modelhire ++>> He chuckled, "God, you're full of surprises, aren'tcha?" <<if $Braless == false>>One hand urged me forward as it unhooked my <<link "bra">><<bra>><</link>> with clear skill, pulling my last shred of clothing away and onto the floor.<</if>> His <<if $Braless == false>>other<</if>> hand settled on one of my <<print $Tits>> breasts, cupping first, giving a little tap to watch its bounce, then a testing squeeze and a firm one, holding tight for a couple beats. I felt a similar beat beginning between my crossed thighs. Shit. Modeling casting couch? Sure felt like some of those videos on Pornhub. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Oooeee." He nodded slowly, switching to the other one as if to confirm, "You got a great set.<<if $Braless == true>> No wonder you keep the girls free. Prevents sagging too. Good thinking.<</if>>"<</if>> My nipples were rock hard, his fingers getting adventurous to tease and tug at them. His eyes flicked up with a little smirk on his face, checking my reaction. Then his hand slid down my stomach, <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>>"Flat, amazing tone here..."<</if>> and as it kept dropping, my throat kept tightening. But the hand changed course right after brushing across the top of my mound, <<if $Pubes == "bald">>"Great job, no retouching needed."<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>"That. Needs. To. Go. //Yesterday//." Making his point with sharp tugs at the lazy strands.<</if>> My brain and my body were in active disagreement over whether his hand moving along my quad was a good or a bad change. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"No wonder you thought you could model with legs like these." He patted them appreciatively.<</if>> "Appraisal's complete, you can relax a bit, <<print $Name>>." He gave a squeeze to my thigh. Pat, pat. Squeeze. "Yeah?" I squeaked out, I felt like my voicebox could barely pass air. "How're you feeling?" I chuckled, again trying to release the tension, wondering if I would be leaving a liquid reminder of my time on the couch, "Well...I don't know. What's the verdict?" <<if $Modelhire gt 7>>"I'm surprised you have to ask. No wonder you got scouted. You'll book." I practically squealed inside. I didn't //have// to do anything to get work. "Cool. Thank you." "You're welcome, girlie." Another few pats at my thigh and an awkward moment, then he stood and I quietly got <<link "dressed">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>>. He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to wrap up. I eyed the shine on the cushion and tried to ignore it -- couldn't exactly go wipe up without drawing attention. I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd truly [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> "Well...honestly--" "Really? Fuck." "Hey, hey now, you're beautiful. You've got a great attitude, a good look. I'll certainly put feelers out there." He smiled amiably. <div id ="put out"> <<if $MaleAttention gt 1>>I [[spread|HS002 - SeedyCouch][$Stable --]] my thighs, a quiet offer.<</if>> <<if $Easy gt 2 || $Suggestible gt 2>>"What about feelers in here?" the words popped out before I considered how they sounded, my hand on his wrist, leading it upward as my [[thighs uncrossed|HS002 - SeedyCouch][$Stable --]].<</if>> I didn't //have// to do anything to get work. I <<link "nodded">><<replace "#put out">>"Cool. Thank you." "You're welcome, girlie." Another few pats at my thigh and an awkward moment, then he stood and I quietly got <<link "dressed">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>>. He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to wrap up. I eyed the shine on the cushion and tried to ignore it -- couldn't exactly go wipe up without drawing attention. I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. <<if $Modelhire gte random(1,10)>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - ModelOutro]]. <</if>><</replace>><</link>>.</div><</if>><</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0 && $Risky gt 0 && $Suggestible gt 0 && $MaleReaction gt 0>><<set $Modelhire ++>>I nodded softly, but <<link "I nodded">><<replace "#nekkid">> "See? That's the attitude I was talking about. Good girl." <<if $Braless == false>>One hand urged me forward as it unhooked my <<link "bra">><<bra>><</link>> with clear skill, pulling my last shred of clothing away and onto the floor.<</if>> His <<if $Braless == false>>other<</if>> hand settled on one of my <<print $Tits>> breasts, cupping first, giving a little tap to watch its bounce, then a testing squeeze and a firm one, holding tight for a couple beats. I felt a similar beat beginning between my crossed thighs. Shit. Modeling casting couch? Sure felt like some of those videos on Pornhub. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"Oooeee." He nodded slowly, switching to the other one as if to confirm, "You got a great set.<<if $Braless == true>> No wonder you keep the girls free. Prevents sagging too. Good thinking.<</if>>"<</if>> My nipples were rock hard, his fingers were getting adventurous and I shifted my weight on the couch, trying to carefully just remove my breasts from his ministrations. He switched tacks. His hand slid down my stomach, <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>>"Flat, amazing tone here..."<</if>> and as it kept dropping, my throat kept tightening. But the hand changed course right after brushing across the top of my mound, <<if $Pubes == "bald">>"Great job, no retouching needed."<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>"That. Needs. To. Go. //Yesterday//." Making his point with sharp tugs at the lazy strands.<</if>> I felt my pulse in my temples, this was not what I had signed up for...or had I? <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"No wonder you thought you could model with legs like these." He patted them appreciatively.<</if>> "Appraisal's complete, you can relax a bit, <<print $Name>>." He gave a squeeze to my thigh. Pat, pat. Squeeze. I shifted again, giving us a little more space, making him have to reach to keep contact. "Yeah?" I squeaked out, I felt like my voicebox could barely pass air. "How're you feeling?" That wasn't the best question. I felt a cold flash. I didn't hide it well, his words came out quickly: <<if $Modelhire gt 7>>"I shouldn't have asked, look, you'll //book//." I practically squealed inside. I didn't //have// to do anything to get work. "Cool. Thank you." "You're welcome, girlie." Another few pats at my thigh and an awkward moment, then he stood and I quietly got <<link "dressed">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>>. He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to wrap up. I eyed the shine on the cushion and tried to ignore it -- couldn't exactly go wipe up without drawing attention. I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd truly [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> "<<print $Name>>...honestly--you're beautiful. You've got a good attitude, a definite look. I can certainly put feelers out there." He smiled amiably, but I could hear the doubt. <div id ="put out"> <<if $Easy gt 3 || $Suggestible gt 3>>"What about feelers in here?" the words popped out before I considered how they sounded, my hand on his wrist, leading it upward as my [[thighs uncrossed|HS002 - SeedyCouch][$Stable --]].<</if>> I didn't //have// to do anything to get work. I <<link "nodded">><<replace "#put out">>"Cool. Thank you." "You're welcome, girlie." Another few pats at my thigh and an awkward moment, then he stood and I quietly got <<link "dressed">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>>. He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to wrap up. I eyed the shine on the cushion and tried to ignore it -- couldn't exactly go wipe up without drawing attention. I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. <<if $Modelhire gte random(3,11)>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - ModelOutro]]. <</if>><</replace>><</link>>.</div><</if>> <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> <<link "I gulped">><<replace "#nekkid">> He took the silence as consent. <<if $Braless == false>>One hand urged me forward as it unhooked my <<link "bra">><<bra>><</link>> with clear skill, pulling my last shred of clothing away and onto the floor.<</if>> His <<if $Braless == false>>other<</if>> hand settled on one of my <<print $Tits>> breasts, cupping first. I squirmed slightly and he gave me a disappointed look. Trying again, came a little tap to watch the bounce, then a testing squeeze and I pulled back. Shit. Modeling casting couch? Sure felt like some of those videos on Pornhub. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>He nodded slowly, eyeing my chest, "You got a great set.<<if $Braless == true>> No wonder you keep the girls free. Prevents sagging too. Good thinking.<</if>>"<</if>> His eyes flicked up, expressionless again, checking my reaction. Reaching out, his hand slid down my stomach, <<if $Bodytraits.includes("fit")>>"Flat, amazing tone here..."<</if>> and as it kept dropping, my throat kept tightening. Whether reading my reaction or having other intentions, his hand changed course right after brushing across the top of my mound, <<if $Pubes == "bald">>"Great job, no retouching needed."<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>"That. Needs. To. Go. //Yesterday//." Wagging a finger as he passed.<</if>> I was silently wondering if I should have done more research before showing up. Or maybe not simply taken off my clothes. Mixed messages. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("legs")>><<set $Modelhire ++>>"No wonder you thought you could model with legs like these." He patted them appreciatively.<</if>> "Appraisal's complete. Jeez, <<print $Name>>, relaaaax why don'cha." He gave a squeeze to my thigh. Pat, pat. Squeeze. I shifted again, giving us a little more space, making him have to reach to keep contact. "Yeah?" I squeaked out, I felt like my voicebox could barely pass air. "How're you feeling?" That wasn't the best question. I felt a cold flash. I didn't hide it well, his words came out quickly: <<if $Modelhire gt 8>>"You'll book." I practically squealed inside, but before it could really register he got up. His size leaving the couch was shocking, "K, ya can git." "Cool. Thank you." I hoped he meant it. I quietly got <<link "dressed">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>>. He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids. I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd truly [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> "No bullshit here--" Tears welled up in my eyes. Cold quickly changed to ''hot''. "Hey, hey now, you're cute. You've got a fun attitude, a definite look. I can test the waters." His smile was weak, apologetic. <div id ="put out"> <<if $Easy gt 4 || $Suggestible gt 4>>I don't know what triggered in my brain, but my hand was on his wrist, pulling it to my core as my [[thighs uncrossed|HS002 - SeedyCouch][$Stable --]].<</if>> I didn't //have// to do anything to get work. I <<link "nodded">><<replace "#put out">>"Cool. Thank you." "You're welcome, girlie." Another few pats at my thigh and an awkward moment, then he stood and I quietly got <<link "dressed">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>>. He moved back around the desk, assembling the polaroids and smiled casually as he waited for me to wrap up. I eyed the shine on the cushion and tried to ignore it -- couldn't exactly go wipe up without drawing attention. I gave an awkward wave and soft, "Bye," as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. <<if $Modelhire gte random(5,13)>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]]. <<else>> Closing the door, I wondered whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - ModelOutro]]. <</if>><</replace>><</link>>.</div><</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. <<if $Stable gt 1 && $Confident gt 1>>No. Way. <<link "I left">><<replace "#nekkid">> Without a response and before he could get any closer, I extricated myself from the couch and the sketchy MFer and grabbed my clothes. My brain was an echo camber of self-judgment as I pulled clothes on as quickly as I could. "Hey now, I...I didn't mean anything by it..." He was stumbling, he was trying to regroup, but my <<link "clothing was on faster">><<upper "shirtSparrow">><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><</link>> than it came off. "Thanks, I think...this just isn't for me." I said side-long as I moved to the door, hair on the back of my neck raised as I anticipated being jumped. It never came, instead, [["No. This isn't."|HS002 - ModelOutro][$Confident ++; $Easy --; $Stable ++; $MaleReaction --; $MaleAttention --; $Suggestible --; $perception ++; $investigation ++; $Modelhire = 0]] <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>></div><</linkreplace>>.I arrived at the upscale apartment building, expecting more pomp and circumstance from being buzzed in, from the man at the front desk, but that was it. I simply walked in and told where the right elevator bank was. Ding. Out into a quiet hallway and down to a metal door. Knocking, the door opened to a vacuous loft with exposed brick and massive, floor-to-ceiling windows. It was bright and I blinked back against the sun as I was welcomed in, "<<print $Name>>? Come in, come in. Adam told me all about you." My mind went to the curious place of wondering exactly what that meant. What had Adam said. What were his expectations? I awkwardly chuckled it off, "Oh uh great!" "First shoot, eh?" Yaz was a slender, tall guy with a man-bun and a linen shirt opened all the way down -- of course he was. "Don't worry, nerves are normal and this should be fun. We're just doing a little <<if $Modelhire lt 5>><<set _shoot = 1>>lifestyle<<elseif $Modelhire lt 7>><<set _shoot = 2>>bikini<<else>><<set _shoot = 3>>lingerie<</if>> shoot." An Oriental-styled room divider, lacquered and expensive-looking, was set to one corner and I knew where to go. Yaz returned to his equipment, squatting in a pair of khakis as I disappeared to change. <<if _shoot == 1>> Shorts, tees, tops, pants, a couple skirts. Time to show off how someone wore some clothes, rather than how they could wear you. <<elseif _shoot == 2>> A cute couple of bikinis, nothing too risque, but they'd show me off well and I'd do a good job of making people jealous of how I made them look. <<else>> So, art shots, straight out of the gate. I knew I'd be cold, even with the sun coming in those windows. And what other people would see. Jeez. I wondered if they'd edit out nipplage or hints of my pubic area. I slid on the sheer fabric and showed myself off. <</if>> <<if $Confident gt 1>><<set $Modelhire ++>>Stepping in front of the brick wall, I struck a pose that just felt...natural. The lights flashed. Yaz nodded, "Wow, a natural?" I just smiled and posed again. Flash.<<else>><<set $Modelhire -->>Stepping in front of the brick wall awkwardly, I looked for a mark, some indication. He stepped forward, "Just...wherever, find the light and make a pose, whatever's comfortable." I tried to laugh it off, but eventually he got me posing.<</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 1>><<set $Modelhire ++>>He told a story as we worked, not the expected "Like a bunny." or "Hotter." Looking back, the story didn't give clear direction, but it worked for me.<<else>><<set $Modelhire -->>Yaz confused me, he wasn't giving directions most of the time, just talking and telling some weird, winding story. But it was disjointed, broken up when he actually decided to tell me what to do.<</if>> <<if $coordination gt 0>><<set $Modelhire ++>>I hadn't expected it to be as physically taxing as it was, holding a position mid-motion, assuming poses that probably looked great on camera, but damn were they unnatural. But I held and fought the sweat.<<else>><<set $Modelhire -->>I hadn't expected this work to be...work. And it was, holding a position mid-motion, or posing in what probably looked good on camera, but was awkward as fuck for me. I had to take breaks from time to time until we got the shot.<</if>> <<if $discipline gt 0>><<set $Modelhire ++>>And it was a long shoot, far longer than I had done before and covering the same shots a couple times in a row was frustrating, but I kept my cool.<<else>><<set $Modelhire -->>And it was a long shoot, far longer than I had done before and covering the same shot multiple times was frustrating -- I may have snapped a few times at Yaz but he took it in stride and helped me settle down.<</if>> And we wrapped. "Yours to keep. Perk of the job." Yaz commented as I went to go get changed. I giggled behind the divider, jitters finally leaving my body, he smiled and waved as I made my way to the door, "One done, see [[how it goes|HS002 - ModelOutro]] from here." Shit, that was professional.<<run $Bodies.push("Adam, my first Agent")>> <<set $HSBC ++>> He didn't resist. I didn't expect him to. He leaned right into the opportunity as if this is what he was waiting for the whole time. His clothes shifted to join mine and we made do with the small, uncomfortable couch. I awkwardly cleaned up the couch as best I could as he cleaned himself up a bit. "Hey," he called back over to me, a firm, but caring look in his eyes, "A promise is a promise." "Cool. Thanks." I nodded, collecting myself and my things. I gave an incredibly awkward, "Bye" and wave as I headed to the door, noticing the camcorder light was still red. And had been the whole time. With a pit in my stomach, I closed the door, wondering whether I'd [[hear from Adam again|HS002 - FirstShoot]].<<if visited("HS002 - FirstShoot")>> <<if $Modelhire gt 7>><<run $Memories.push("TeenModel")>> It was crazy. The stories turned out to be true. People did get discovered anywhere. I got shoots from time to time and everyone got used to the money coming in to the college fund. I got to travel, but most fun was seeing me in an ad. A weird kind of mirror. For kids at school, it was a mixed bag. Girls hated it and their reactions went from constantly trying to ingratiate themselves to just icing me out. Guys loved it, and made me more of a get -- which made upcoming [[Prom Season|HS002 - PromDress]] more interesting. <<else>> And that was it. My early and quick foray into modeling. From the excitement of being found and selected without even trying, and then seeing how it all played out. Theres a part of me that regrets not trying a little harder, or doing something different -- maybe I could have made more of the opportunity. But it was a great learning experience, and it got me a little clout as we headed into [[Prom Season|HS002 - PromDress]]. <</if>> <<else>> And that was it. My early and quick foray into modeling. From the excitement of being found and selected without even trying, and then seeing how it all played out. Theres a part of me that regrets not trying a little harder, or doing something different -- maybe I could have made more of the opportunity. But it was a great learning experience, and it got me a little clout as we headed into [[Prom Season|HS002 - PromDress]].<</if>><<set $PromWin -->> Welp, that didn't work. <<print $FName>> did design an amazing poster showing off my very best side, and I did my damnedest distributing it. Without any other options, most of the flyers were digital and got mistaken as a vanity project or a random Insta photoshoot. With the campaign dead in the water, I simply hoped my appearance on the night would make up the difference. The question was: how much effort to spend on it. I could spend hours on Pinterest and shopping for the __exact__ dress, ''trendiest'' hair and makeup. My little notebook had a could be filled with every potential date and the pros and cons of each one on my arm. <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>It was [[do or die|HS002 - PromDress][$PromWin ++]], eat or be eaten.<</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>Everyone was taking this far more seriously than I was. [[It didn't matter|HS002 - PromDress][$PromWin --]].<</if>> <<if $MaleAttention gt 0>>All eyes on me? I had to be fucking [[perfect|HS002 - PromDress][$PromWin ++; $Sophisticated ++]].<</if>> I could let <<print $FName>><<link "decide" "HS002 - PromDate">><<set $PromWin -->><<set $Confident -->><</link>>.The morning of the District Championships arrived, hundreds gathering to watch as (mostly) their children competed. The women's match started at 10.15AM. Ava and I battled each other before the match as we stretched in who could ignore the other more and of course it was her. It felt like a gladiator getting ready to go into the arena. Eventually, I took my place on the back line, toe of my sneaker digging at the line as if I could get better purchase. I gave a quick glance to Rod. He nodded. The ball took flight, crowd hubbub falling away, and for a moment the stadium was silent. The ball flew forward just before the <<shake 3s>>CRACK<</shake>> of my palm against fabric echoed in the cavernous room. Back and forth, girls grunted, slammed into the floor at the last moment to save from a Kill. The score climbed, neck and neck, until match point... <<if $CompWin gte $Ava>> <<set $Confident ++>><<set $Memories.push("DistrictsWon")>> "Mine!" Ava called out, her body shifting to target the far side of court, while her angle of her arms belied a closer target. Smack! The ball tumbled upwards, back over the net. I hurtled towards the shortfall. The rest of my squad was exhausted and caught off-guard. This was the moment. I dove against the hardwood, the padding of my elbows and knees not saving my chest or hips. My hands shot underneath the ball, giving it purchase on my forearms to pop back into the air. Erica, beside me, had recovered and squared underneath with a firm, "Set!" Somehow, I got my feet underneath me and launched myself into the air, from belly-down to reaching eight feet into the air easily. My arm swung down, using the strength and talent of my serve. he power gave Ava no time to react. The ball smashed her squarely in the face she the proud recipient of a six-packing, before dropping onto her pompous ass. The ball tumbled forward for the Kill. Erica grabbed me ''ferociously''. We all were screaming, crying. Rod and the assistant coach were scrambling onto the court just ahead of our fans and parents. Our side was a veritable mosh pit of emotion. Theirs emptied just as fast, leaving Ava with a burgeoning bruise in her eye sockets and red collecting on her upper lip. We. ''Had'''. <<shake 2s>>//''Won''//<</shake>>! That night, I celebrated with <<print $FName>> over Long Island Ice Teas that had been sent over in congratulations. <<else>> <<set $Confident -->> "Mine!" Ava called out, her body shifting to target the far side of court, while her angle of her arms belied a closer target. Smack! The ball tumbled upwards, back over the net. I hurtled towards the shortfall. The rest of my squad was exhausted and caught off-guard. This was the moment. You dove against the hardwood, the padding of my elbows and knees not saving my chest or hips. Somehow, I got my feet underneath me and launched myself into the air, from belly-down to reaching eight feet into the air easily. I sailed towards the net, my arm swung down, using the strength and talent of my serve. But suddenly the ball was screaming right at me, swelling in my vision. And then I was back on the ground, my face red and throbbing from the impact and now growing redder from embarrassment as I saw Ava grinning and giving me a flip wave. She turned to her squadmates who were screaming, and crying. Their coach was scrambling onto the court just ahead of their fans and parents. It was a veritable moshpit of emotion. Ours emptied just as fast, leaving me alone. They had won. Ava had won. By the merest miscalculation. A bruise was burgeoning in my eye sockets and red was pouring into my frenulum, the copper tang in my mouth. Tears welled in my eyes. "Too bad, kid," said Rod, giving me a tap at the back of my head as I sat there, deflated, on the court. <<if $spoiled == true>> I smacked his hand away and rose up, thrusting my chest into his and making him stumble back. "This is __your__ fault. See if you coach again next year." There was a moment of fear in his eyes, I think. But that was the last I saw of Rod, or the court. It was over and I was glad for it.<</if>> That night, I commiserated with <<print $FName>> over a couple cool cocktails. She said that, for the time being, the deepening color around my eyes gave me a striking and interesting look. <</if>> After the excitement of the Districts, it was a bit of a drag to come back to the normal reality, but it wasn't without any upside. I considered going to [[Prom|HS002 - PromDress]] which I realized I hadn't missed.<<set $CompWin += 2>> <<set $social -->><<set $Ava = random(1,5)>> Reluctantly, I told <<print $FName>> that I was going to have to cancel. She was disappointed, but she knew how much winning meant to me. At 7AM every Saturday morning, I rocked up to an empty gym for an hour of one-on-one training with Rod. Without the distraction of the other girls, it was a full sixty minutes per week of intense personal coaching – focused not just on technique but on psychology. Rod coached me not to think about any other girl on the court except myself. "It literally doesn't matter what they're doing; you're either giving it 100% in every single second or you're not, and that's all you need--" he poked my head, "going on in here." His touch ignited something inside me. Something about the way he did it, whether it was his signature head-poke, or a hand on my lower back. It seemed innocent, but it felt otherwise. [[Before we knew it, Districts were here|HS002 - Comp2]].<<set $social ++>> <<set $CompWin -->> <<set $deception ++>><<set $Ava = random(1,5)>> <<if $CompHungover == true>>Three club sessions and two gym workouts a week were more than enough – I'd make some Saturdays from time to time, some of them not hung over - but anything else would have driven me crazy. In typical fashion, I used school as an excuse: "Sorry Rod, had an exam study session". <<else>> Three club sessions and two gym workouts a week were more than enough – without the release of "Paddy's with <<print $FName>>" I was never going to beat Ava. In typical fashion, I used school as an excuse: "Sorry Rod, I ''had'' to graduate." <</if>> Every Friday, you and <<print $FName>> met up for drinks. We eventually became regular barflies at Paddy's, but for the time being it was simply exciting to be allowed in! <<print $Friend1>>, Ethan and Andrew were pretty envious: they always got ID'd whenever they tried to get into a bar or club. Ethan claimed to sometimes get served in a bar in <<if $hometown == "NO">><</if>>the next town over<<if $hometown == "WA">><</if>>Capitol Hill<<if $hometown == "LA">>Silver Lake<</if>><<if $hometown == "NY">>Soho<</if>><<if $hometown == "AL">>Montgomery<</if>>, but he's full of shit. They weren't with us, and did they have any reason to be jealous? I mean, we looked **hot**. Our regularity was met with excitement and broad grins. Who was there to be jealous of besides <<if $Risky && $Easy gt 0>>The guy who 'owned' the corner. Your quintessential middle-aged man drowning his sorrows in drink, [[Marty|HS002 - CompParty2][$PaddyHU = "Marty"]].<</if>> The bartender, his Irish lilt giving away his first-generation heritage, [[Sean|HS002 - CompParty2][$PaddyHU = "Sean"]]. The guys were nice, respectful beyond their gaze, but essentially only [[good for a free beer|HS002 - CompParty2][$PaddyHU = "None"]].<<if $PaddyHU == "Marty">> <<print $FName>> has gone to the bathroom and I had gotten bored. It was a very quiet night at Paddy's and curiosity got the better of me. I slid into the stool next to Marty, which startled him, "Oh uh, hey Robin." (We both used fake names to align with our ID's. It was extra freeing.) "I can't buy you a drink tonight." "I'm not a mooch--" he chuckled at that, "Okay, well not you, okay? Deal?" I stuck out my hand, he grasped and shook it. It was an uninspired grip, "You okay?" "Laid off today. As if everything else wasn't enough." "Fuck. I'm sorry..." I dug in the short pockets of my skirt for some cash. After a few moments, I realized trying this in my seat had been giving Marty a full view up my skirt. <<if $Undies == "Commando">>"I miss pussy." He sighed, eyeing my pink longingly. "Shit, I'm sorry Marty," giggling to play it off. "Oh no, thank you, Robin. Most I've gotten in years." I put the cash on the bar and motioned for a beer for Marty. Man, I felt so bad for him. Without much thinking -- and probably influenced by my drinking so far -- the stool squeaked closer and I lightly nudged his hand to my thigh. The other patrons, and especially Sean and <<print $FName>>, didn't take long to figure out what was happening. But he was generous and I made his night. <<else>>"Oh sorry," he sighed as he got caught, looking away quickly. "Not your fault." Cash was on the bar and I was motioning Sean for Marty's beer. Man, I felt bad for him, watching the embarrassment and pain echo through his face. Without much thinking and probably thanks to my drinking, the stool squeaked closer to him. I guided his hand to my thigh lightly, but he wasn't arguing. If anything, he was shocked. The other patrons, and especially Sean and <<print $FName>>, didn't take long to figure out what was happening. But he was generous and I made his night. <</if>> <<elseif $PaddyHU == "Sean">> Flirting with Sean was part and parcel of being at Paddy's <<print $FName>> and I had little, silent competitions for his favor. But that's as far as it went. Until one night when <<print $FName>> couldn't make it. Some date or other. I wasn't happy with her, and there was far less to do except simply drink. Sean gave me concerned looks as I was ahead of pace for the night and my body clearly wasn't keeping up. But his concern dissipated as I started to go from brushing his hand to holding his hand, lightly stroking his fingers and palms. Patrons finished off at their usual time and I stayed far later. Then I was the last one. "Oh, shit, Sean, I'm sorry...I'm keeping you here." "Oh, it's fine, Robin..." his lilt always made the fake name from my fake ID sound cuter. "No, no, I feel bad." I also felt drunk. Suddenly, I was leaning over the bar and sticking my tongue into his mouth. It wasn't a comfortable position, but neither was the sticky bartop that I climbed onto shortly thereafter. I didn't make Sean's night shorter, but I made Sean's night. <<else>> Both <<print $FName>> and I had our fair share of evenings batting away the advances of the other patrons. And it was a balancing act: accept enough to receive free drinks, but not too much that felt gross or made future interactions uncomfortable. Sean had our backs, which was nice. Clearly, he understood the economics of girls out at a bar and saw nothing wrong with it. Sure, it meant sometimes we got stiffed, or felt their stiffy, but more or less we were able to have our nights out and keep it focused on us and our buzz. <</if>> [[Before we knew it, Districts were here|HS002 - Comp2]].<<silently>><<set $CompWin = $athletics>> <<if $freetime == "sporty" && $hsv == "sporty">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "sporty" && $hsv == "cheer">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "active" && $hsv == "sporty">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "active" && $hsv == "cheers">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>><</silently>> The gym at school enjoyed the squeaks of my sneakers in the afternoons. And when I was forced to go home, my neighbors hated the repeated smack-pound of the balls against the fence. My grunts and yells punctuating each one certainly didn't help. <br><br> Sunday mornings was the technical session. I wasn't always on the backline and I had to ensure that my skills were strong no matter where I was on the court. <br><br> I was one of the top girls in the squad and my coach, Rod -- who was a fantastic server in his own right and had represented the country in 1990 -- had taken especial interest in my training. I received a custom gym and nutrition program to stick to. Twice a week I sweat in the gym, doing strength, core and "pre-hab" exercises. I ate mostly smoothies and power salads, and was told to avoid alcohol. Period. <br><br> With all this training -- plus occasionally putting eyeballs on work to appease everyone else -- that Spring was __packed__, and a stressful time. <br><br> We were doing well, winning most of our games, but Rod was applying more pressure on me than the rest of the girls. It felt like, if I focused a bit harder, we might have a shot at Districts. <br><br> <<nobr>> <<if $Pubes == "bush" || $Pubes == "strip">> <span id = "pubes"> And the pressure wasn't just with Rod and on the court. In the locker room, I received more than a few raised eyebrows and Lindsey even commented, "Well, that's...a deep cut," while eyeing my...lower hairstyle. From that moment on, it was hard not to compare myself to the wholesale expectation to go bald. Only Deepa and Rachel maintained a little more, like a landing strip.<br><br> <<if $Suggestible || $Confident lt 0>>I quickly joined in and decided between the <<button "Line">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "strip">> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<</replace>><</button>> and <<button "Hollywood">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "bald">> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<</replace>><</button>> look.<br><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>>But I rocked it anyway, <<button "Fuck'em.">><<replace "#pubes">> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<br><</replace>><</button>><br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>I wasn't going to be the odd-ball and went <<button "Line">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "strip">> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<</replace>><</button>> <<button "Hollywood">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "bald">> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<br><</replace>><</button>><br><</if>> <<if $Stable gte 0 && $Suggestible lte 0 && $Confident gte 0 && $LabelReaction lte 0>>I preferred being <<button "Unique">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Stable -->> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<br><</replace>><</button>><br><</if>> The __next__ day, we were all <<button "smiles">><<replace "#pubes">><<set $Pubes = "bald">><<set $Suggestible ++>> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<br><</replace>><</button>> rather than stares. </span> <<else>> <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>A potential victory at the upcoming [[District Championship|HS002 - CompYes]] outweighed studies by a long shot.<br><</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>But I was doing this because it was a disciplined way to keep fit and [[just kill time|HS002 - CompNo]].<br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>All I needed was the affirmation: Rod said so, [[I did so|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>He barely had to bring up the training twice before I [[agreed|HS002 - CompYes]].<br><</if>> The pressure felt too much for me, everything couldn't be [[only on my shoulders|HS002 - CompNo][$Confident --]].<br> <</if>> <</nobr>><<set $CompWin -->> When he saw me disconnect, Rod picked shifted to focus on the squad. There was a terseness to his voice when he called my name and a definite disappointment in his looks. He was a damned good coach though, that was clear because we kept powering through our competition. We were on our way to Districts, despite what Rod had implied to me. Our main rival was a team from across town, led by an outside hitter named Ava, an upper class trophy-wife-to-be who was 'slumming it' rather than spending her time at Equinox. The community is small and thanks to club, I'd trained with her a couple of times, and I knew a couple things about her. First: she had a killer wrist-away shot. Second: she was a complete bitch, who couldn't stand me for some reason -- and loved to six-pack an unsuspecting opponent. I wasn't about to allow that to be me. Case in point, she spread a rumour to the other girls in my club to avoid me because I was a lesbian. Not original, but coming from her it was extra-effective. One of the girls from her club told me that she called me "Fat <<print $Name>>". I'd ''love'' to beat her up, but I was willing to accept simply beating her. Rod recommended some extra one-on-one training on Saturday mornings – saying I needed to work harder. "Aces weren't assured against her." The problem was that I and my girl <<print $FName>> recently learned that wearing lipstick and eyeshadow got me served at bars just one neighborhood over. For some reason they didn't card. Grabbing drinks -- and they usually ended up being free -- there on a Friday night had become my new favorite way to blow off steam. But Rod's insistence on training rang in the back of my mind. I doubted I could continue "Paddy's with <<print $FName>>" and face a training session with Rod the morning after. <<if $Confident || $Suggestible gt 0>>[[So, I gave up the partying|HS002 - CompNoParty]] until after Districts.<</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>>[[I couldn't give up either|HS002 - CompParty][$CompWin ++; $CompHungover = true]].<</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>>[[I made an excuse|HS002 - CompParty]] about why I couldn't do the extra training.<</if>><<set $CompWin ++>> With Rod and my concerted effort, our team powered through the rest of the field. Kills dominated when I was on the backline and I left the other girls shaking their heads. Clinching first in our district was on the horizon. Our main rival was a team from across town, led by an outside hitter named Ava, an upper class trophy-wife-to-be who was 'slumming it' rather than spending her time at Equinox. The community is small and thanks to club, I'd trained with her a couple of times, and I knew a couple things about her. First: She had a killer wrist-away shot. Second: she was a complete bitch, who couldn't stand me for some reason -- and loved to six-pack an unsuspecting opponent. I wasn't about to allow that to be me. Case in point, she spread a rumour to the other girls in my club to avoid me because I was a lesbian. Not original, but coming from her it was extra-effective. One of the girls from her club told me that she called me "Fat <<print $Name>>." I'd ''love'' to beat her up, but I was willing to accept simply beating her. Rod recommended some extra one-on-one training on Saturday mornings – saying I needed to work harder. "Aces weren't assured against her." The problem was that I and my girl <<print $FName>> recently learned that wearing lipstick and eyeshadow got me served at bars just one neighborhood over. For some reason they didn't card. Grabbing drinks -- and they usually ended up being free -- there on a Friday night had become my new favorite way to blow off steam. But Rod's insistence on training rang in the back of my mind. I doubted I could continue "Paddy's with <<print $FName>>" and face a training session with Rod the morning after. <<if $Confident || $Suggestible gt 0>>[[So, I gave up the partying|HS002 - CompNoParty]] until after Districts.<</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>>[[I couldn't give up either|HS002 - CompParty][$CompWin ++; $CompHungover = true]].<</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>>[[I made an excuse|HS002 - CompParty]] about why I couldn't do the extra training.<</if>>Tempted as I was by everything else, I couldn't ignore the impending exams. I spent most of the Spring in my bedroom. <<if $Clique == "Nerd">> -- but what's new, filling my brain with facts ranging from the difference between adverbs and modal verbs to the molecular properties of graphite...it's day ending in 'y'.<</if>> My dreams were cascades of mind-maps and flashcards, and occasional nightmares about turning up to the exam hall [[naked|HS002 - Study2]].<span id = "study">I wasn't the only one going through all this stress and pressure. So, armed with some study buddies – <<print $FName>>, some girlfriends, and, of course, The Boys. In many ways the latter were most helpful. Because they weren't interested in gossip and rather get back to video gaming -- sessions with them tended to be more focused. The downside, though, was the fact that their bedrooms were all gross, so I preferred to having them over to <<link "my place">><<replace "#study">> <span id = "studyfight">"Don't wolf your food, <<print $Name>>." I jammed a mouthful of <<if $wealth lt 3>>Dinty Moore<<else>>a maki combo platter<</if>> into my mouth, ensuring she could see every half-chewed piece: "I told you I've gotta stu-dy tonight, ''<<print $MName>>''" I reminded her, with icy control. "<<print $Name>> wants to look nice for her boyfriends," <<print $DName>> teased. "Shut up!" I snapped. "They're not my boyfriends!" "You do see a lot of those boys..." she trailed off with the implication. "Are they really all just friends?" "You are *NOT* <<link "my mother">><<replace "#studyfight">> Welp. That wasn't the best way forward. Gone were the comfortable sessions with my friends, studying the amount we wanted to, goofing off, maybe playing a game or watching something on the YubTubs. Instead, "If studying meant __that__ much to me...", they hired a [[tutor|HS002 - Tutor]] for me.<</replace>><</link>>!"</span><</replace>><</link>>.</span><<if $activity == "piano" && $hsv == "piano">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> Being on the fringes afforded me a kind of freedom away from the typical pop and mainstream fare pumping out of the radio at the time. And music became a kind of salve for the travails of youth. My room became a temple to the passion, walls adorned with posters of gorgeous, long-haired singers and guitarists. I picked up <<if $activity == "piano">>more <</if>>instruments and locked myself away in my room afternoons and weekends to sing along, to emulate, and sometimes to dump my feelings into lyrics and songs of my own. My biggest influences were... <div id = "music"> Joni Mitchell, Lana Del Rey, Dolly Parton...<<link "the singer-songwriters">><<replace "#music">> <<print $DName>> wasn't crazy about the solitude -- nor the volume I played Florence and the Machine or Lake Street Dive most nights. But <<print $MName>> made him cave and realize it wasn't just a phase for me. Then, it was a <<if $wealth gt 3>>Martin Special<<else>>second-hand<</if>> guitar he just happened to pick up one day...and a little practice amp for my birthday. My bedroom got louder, jamming along to favorite albums until my fingers bled. From posters on the walls, my idols watched my efforts and I felt the pressure. So, I decided to strike out like my forebears and try my hand as a [[solo act|HS002 - MusicSolo]]. <</replace>><</link>> Pat Benatar, Annie Lennox, and Hayley Williams...<<link "female rockers">><<replace "#music">> <<print $DName>> wasn't crazy about the solitude -- nor the volume I cranked Paramore and The Pretty Reckless most nights. But <<print $MName>> made him cave and realize it wasn't just a phase for me. Then, it was a <<if $wealth gt 3>>Fender<<else>>second-hand electric<</if>> guitar he just happened to pick up one day...and a little practice amp for my birthday. My bedroom got louder, jamming along to favorite albums until my fingers bled. From posters on the walls, my idols watched my efforts and I felt the pressure. I knew that Ethan played the drums, so I mustered up some courage and kicked an idea out to [[The Boys|HS002 - MusicBand]]. <</replace>><</link>> </div><<set $SoloSuccess = $Attractiveness>> Sequestering myself was the easy part, much harder was figuring out what the next steps were. Music was obviously one part of the equation, but also where and how I would play seemed important. I sat on my bed, strumming my guitar and contemplated <<linkreplace "what to sing.">>what to sing. <div id = "music">Did I call on the Muse and start crafting my own <<link "original music">><<replace "#music">><<set $MusicOriginal == true>>I wiled away the hours with a pad and pen. I let my mind wander in class, I had stains on my scribblings from the dinner table. And then on weekends, I would find the music to accompany the words. The Boys were not happy with me that I just fell off the face of the Earth, or that they couldn't drag me out of reveries even with the most disgusting jokes. Eventually, they were content to pressure me to join but just sit around on a couch or on the floor and hum, rustling paper while they hung out. "Hey guys." Their jaws dropped. "Mind if I play some stuff and let me know what you think?" They smiled, keen on being able to connect with me for once. They put down their controllers and formed a semi-circle as my audience. <<if $Confident gt 0>><<set $SoloSuccess = $SoloSuccess + $learning>>The TV that had remained on -- Pause screen and idle tones playing -- quickly was shut off. Ethan scrambling as soon as I had gotten through a verse. "What...draft is this?" "Uh, first...ish?" They nodded to each other and motioned for me to continue. When I wrapped, they applauded. Being them, though, of course they had comments and critiques, but I could tell I impressed them. <<elseif $Confident gt -2>><<if $learning gt 1>><<set $SoloSuccess ++>><<else>><<set $SoloSuccess -->><</if>>They had left the TV on, the Pause screen and idle tones combating with my fledgling performance, but they nodded along and I got a few thigh slaps. A smattering of applause when I finished my set, they immediately dove into comments and critiques. I guess I shouldn't have expected more out of them. <<else>><<set $SoloSuccess = $SoloSuccess - $learning>>They had left the TV on, the Pause screen and idle music couldn't have been more at odds with what I was playing or more contentious with my focus. I barely got through one song and then they clambered back over to what they were doing before, "It's a good start!" Shit. Even fans in hand weren't sold. <</if>> With their notes, it took a month in total or so until I was content with what I had put together, but at least [[I had my songs|HS002 - MusicSolo2]]. And they were //mine//. <</replace>><</link>>? It could be tailored to my voice and my experience, but it'd have to be //good// to get anyone to perk up.<br> Or did I appeal to the brilliance on my walls and on my playlists and pull from <<link "songs that were popular">><<replace "#music">><<set $MusicOriginal == false>><<if $learning gt 2>><<set $SoloSuccess ++>><<else>><<set $SoloSuccess -->><</if>>I dug through discography, starting of course with my own library and branching out into my favorites' favorites. Their idols and inspiration. On the shoulders of giants and whatnot. And then I cross-referenced as best I could with karaoke lists, playlists you'd hear at coffee shops and wherever -- what did people enjoy listening to? It was like Venn Diagrams were being created in my brain. There were so. many. songs. out there. But eventually, I pulled together my 'Cover Canon,' some great oldies like Nightingale by Carole King, a Kate Bush tribute, You Know I'm No Good by Amy (RIP), a Lorde, an Adele -- which was a stretch, I know -- and a Lana thrown in for good measure. And there it was, a set that would work, I liked and people would hopefully ''love''. I began practicing, and I'm sure the monotony of hearing the same skrelting from my bedroom might have driven everyone else in the house [[absolutely mad|HS002 - MusicSolo2]]. <</replace>><</link>>? I wouldn't be the first to do it, but even the most established artists did covers of their idols.<br> I could also reach out to a <<link "local label">><<replace "#music">><<set $MusicOriginal == true>><<set _demo = 0>>Nervously I waited for an email back. I had shot over a demo of me singing some Elton John, a headshot, and a quick and bubbly snippet about my desire to perform. Ugh, that kinda sounds insipid, doesn't it. The number of unread ticked up, I checked the inbox habitually, and clicked the boldest email at the top of the screen. Shit, here goes. "<<print $Name>>, Thank you for taking the time to send over your demo to us. We're always looking for new, interesting talent.<<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set _demo ++>> We're all in agreement, you certainly have a great vibe.<</if>><<if $performance gt 1>><<set _demo ++>> You have an instinct for nuanced and personal delivery in your singing.<</if>><<if $Confidence gt 1>><<set _demo ++>> We were impressed at your steadiness with the material. It's difficult to try and do a master like Sir Elton and have some 'imposter' shine through.<</if>><<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>><<set _demo ++>> Your vocal quality is particularly interesting -- it made us all perk up.<</if>> <<if _demo gte 3>><<set $Label = true>>We're quite interested in having you come down to our studio and seeing what we can collaborate on." And then there was an address and appointment time. Not an offer of times. A single time they expected me to be there. I may have skipped school the next couple of days, headed out to a park and worked on another cover, some LSD to get ready for an in-person. And just like that, sans a few days of classes, I was [[walking up to an office|HS002 - MusicSolo2]] of a true-blue label for a ''meeting''. <<elseif _demo is 2>>We'd like to hear what you can do with something new. We've attached some sheet music, demo vocals, and the necessary legal documentation. Work on these pieces and let us know when you'll be performing. We look forward to it." Wow. Okay. Cool. Wow. Okay...I had music, I had to practice, perform and impress. [[Simple enough right|HS002 - MusicSolo2]]? <<else>><<set $MusicOriginal == false>><<if $learning gt 2>><<set $SoloSuccess ++>><<else>><<set $SoloSuccess -->><</if>>Thank you, again, for your submission, but at this time we will not be moving forward with you on our label. Best of luck." Fuck. I cried. For sure, I cried. Shot my shot, right? And then I dug in and tried to [[put together a set list|HS002 - MusicSolo2]] as best I could. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> and see if there was a producer with an opening and some music waiting for an artist. I'd have to impress them and who knows the quality of what they had or how they sold it.</div><</linkreplace>><<if $Label == true>><<set $Memories.push("Signed By a Label")>>It felt a little like a Western film, guitar strapped to my back, but I guess this was normal for arteests like myself. Aspiring artist? As I was buzzed in, I firmed up my conviction: Artist. I don't know what I was expecting from the space, and had no real idea if there was much money in producing and being a label, but the office certainly didn't belie any hidden wealth. There were two guys, one ancient, one probably not much older than myself, and a bedraggled woman in her middle-age hunched over desks and their motley assortment of laptops as I tried to get the neck of my guitar in the door. Papa Bear, Mama Bear, Baby Bear is what my brain immediately assigned them. "<<print $Name>>." Came Baby, not looking up from his screen. I think I heard the creak of Papa's bones as he lifted himself from his desk, eyes still downcast on a set of papers. Mama didn't react. Papa motioned over to a small stool in the corner and then tugged a packet free from a stack -- all of this while continuing his previous reading. I hustled over, not even commenting on my name being announced. I plopped down into the chair -- it squeaked, probably like everything else in here -- and I shifted my instrument to my lap as I watched them each come over at their own pace, and all bringing other things with them. Papa and papers, Mama and a recording device, and Baby with his computer. Their chairs squeaked into place around me in a disjointed semi-circle. "Thanks for coming down. Like what we said in our email, we are interested in possibly pursuing a commercial relationship with you--" Baby plucked the packet from Papa and handed it to me, a pen included. "Some standard NDAs, releases, etc. Feel free to take it home and look it over, but we'll need signatures if we decide to continue together." I nodded, giving a cursory flip through the dense text and then setting it down on the worn carpet. "This is Gerard, the G, R and D in our label. That's Florence--" "Like the Machine!" Baby gave me a perfunctory chuckle, but I could tell it was neither a good joke, nor one they hadn't heard before. "And I'm Clay. So. What do you have for us today?" "Lake Street Dive." Mama -- Florence -- nodded with a hmm that I wasn't about to try and decode. I swung up my guitar, strummed and, "Obviously, we're at the beginning of something..." I must have blacked out because all of a sudden, it was, "We'll see what happens but I hope we will never be apart. Oh, yeahhh..." I trailed off, hand strumming while syncopating the beat against the guitar. "Really well suited to your voice," Florence. "New." Clay. "With levels and understanding what she hadn't shown us before, right for this intimate venue and lack of instruments..." Gerard. They all nodded, "Great. Go home. Sign those papers and we'll set you up with a first gig and we'll see how it goes." He stood. She stood. Clay stood. After a moment, I stood. Back at the desks, the bears were back to work and I headed out. My heart dropped until as I reached for the handle, all of them in unison, they lifted their heads and smiled. I walked outside, calmly and deliberate. And then [[screamed|HS002 - MusicGig|$SoloSuccess += 4]]! <<else>> I did some searching online, asked around, even tried to walk into coffee shops guitar strapped to my back and see if they hired music. I was really pounding the pavement. Song catalog, guitar, voice...I had everything lined up except a place to sing. And I wasn't going to be content busking in <<print $Friend1>>'s garage. My feet hurt, I was discouraged, but I ventured on. And it was worth it, because in my wanderings downtown I happened across <<if $hometown == "NY">>Webster Hall<<elseif $hometown == "WA">>Paramount Theatre<<elseif $hometown == "AL">>The Crossing<<elseif $hometown == "LA">>The Roxy Theatre<<else>> a small venue called "The Stage" -- uninspired as it was --<</if>> that was holding a 'Battle of the Bands'. Intrigued, I checked out the rules and there was a section for solo acts. Well, it wasn't //paying// unless I won, but it was a place to //play//. I signed up that afternoon. I was surprised to see more than a cash prize on the table: a deal with a record label. There was also coaching and studio time to record a demo for the runner-up. Without anything to my name, it'd be hard to get gigs beyond playing for The Boys in that garage. Winning this could be a game changer. The direct competition was a bit unnerving, but I [[believed|HS002 - SoloBattle]] in myself.<</if>><<set $Memories.push("Opened for Sara Morales")>><<set $Confident ++>><<set $performance ++>> It was an unbearable week between the meeting and when Clay called me up. There was an act coming through town that was without its opener...would I be willing to jump in? Uh. Fuck. Yes? I turned inward. I played and played and practiced til my fingers ached. I skipped school to spend more time on my set and how I'd perform it. I told //everyone// about the gig, trying to play it off that I could get them tickets to see a fun performer coming through town, but there was a bit of pride and watching their reaction as well when I said I'd be opening for them. And then, it was the night. I ambled down with my guitar, stomach weak, palms sweaty -- you get it. After struggling through a sound check that I strained to understand, followed by an agonizing, too-long wait in a dingy dressing room, it was showtime. As I stepped onto a //massive// stage for a solo act, I had a sick feeling of dread churning in my stomach. It was a big, dark venue and so it felt as though no one was out there. We'd been told there were ''hundreds'' of people here. For a second, it felt like we'd be playing to an empty room. Then <<print $FName>> woo'd from somewhere past the bright lights. Other voices followed suit and I began to notice familiar faces peeking up at the stage. Where //I// was. Oh, shit. "I'm <<print $Name>>...<<print $Name>> <<print $Surname>>..." Shit. Too late to back out. I began to fret, stepping into to the microphone and <<linkreplace "opened my mouth">>opened my mouth, dropping into it and belting out as I strummed. <<if $SoloSuccess gt 11>>My melody line danced out of the club's PA. I'd been staring intently at my fretboard, but looked up to see <<if $Undies == "Commando">><<print $FName>> making broad gesticulations and mouthing something to me. That's when I realized that not only was I flashing the audience, her insistence on letting me know was bringing more attention to my <<if $Pubes == "bald">>smooth pussy<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>hidden slit<<elseif $Pubes == "strip">>hair pointing to the slit<<elseif $Pubes == "bikini">>show of pubic maturity<</if>>. A quick cross of my legs, but I missed a beat and the right chord. I could hear the chuckle from the audience...and some clapping.<<else>><<print $FName>> smiling and nodding.<</if>> Yet somehow, her grin encouraged me, and I felt a surge of confidence. I was fucking nailing it! Thirty minutes later, I climbed down off the stage, a huge grin on my face. Somehow, everything went...right? I couldn't wait to see the videos that people had recorded. I felt like I was just steps from being a rock star. The rest of the night was a blur -- hanging with friends, family, and random metalheads. One guy from the audience told me that he ''loved'' me, but I wasn't quite sure his motivations. Yet, in the midst of hanging out with everyone, I felt a tug at my elbow and, about to give Andrew a hug for being there for me, I noticed he was making pointed looks to a man standing nearby. "Uh, hey." I said, impressive opening. "I'm Willy, I was on the judging panel. You really rocked it, tonight." I beamed, he didn't say anything else but he handed me his business card! I didn't know how to respond, I had a label, but I wasn't going to deny the compliment. Later on, I got to meet Sara Morales backstage. She really had killed it and was effusive about how I had opened for her. I felt over the moon and really encouraged to keep trying. She told me stories about how she had started and she was only in her early twenties. And then...it was over. I got a call from Papa Bear, Gerard, complimenting what I had done and it was Florence who told me they'd line up more acts, at least at little clubs and shops around town. And that I could come down and pick up my very first cut check at the end of the week. And then a good job. It was Clay from then on out. I had put on a fucking show, but now I couldn't distract myself from [[school life|HS002 - PromDress]] any longer. <<else>> My melody line danced out of the club's PA. I'd been staring intently at my fretboard, but looked up to see <<if $Undies == "Commando">><<print $FName>> making broad gesticulations and mouthing something to me. That's when I realized that not only was I flashing the audience, her insistence on letting me know was bringing more attention to my <<if $Pubes == "bald">>smooth pussy<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>hidden slit<<elseif $Pubes == "strip">>arrow of hair pointing down<<elseif $Pubes == "bikini">>sign of pubic maturity<</if>>. A quick cross of my legs, but I missed a beat and the right chord. I could hear the chuckle from the audience...and some clapping.<<else>><<print $FName>> smiling and nodding.<</if>> Yet somehow, her grin encouraged me, and I felt a surge of confidence. I was fucking nailing it! Thirty minutes later, I climbed down off the stage, a huge grin on my face. Somehow, everything went...right? I couldn't wait to see the videos that people had recorded. I felt like I was just steps from being a rock star. The rest of the night was a blur -- hanging with friends, family, and random metalheads. One guy from the audience told me that he ''loved'' me, but I wasn't quite sure his motivations. Yet, in the midst of hanging out with everyone, I felt a tug at my elbow and, about to give Andrew a hug for being there for me, I noticed he was making pointed looks to a man standing nearby. "Uh, hey." I said, impressive opening. "I'm Willy, I was on the judging panel. You really rocked it, tonight." I beamed, he didn't say anything else but he handed me his business card! I didn't know how to respond, I had a label, but I wasn't going to deny the compliment. Later on, I got to meet Sara Morales backstage. She really had killed it. She told me stories about how she had started and she was only in her early twenties. And then...it was over. I got a call from Clay a few days later thanking me for taking the gig and that there'd be a check for me and that they'd be in touch. I got my check, but they weren't in touch. Shit. I had put on a fucking show, but now I couldn't distract myself from [[school life|HS002 - PromDress]] any longer.<</if>><</linkreplace>>...<<if $Bodytraits.includes("voice")>><<set $SoloSuccess += 2>><</if>> <<set $SoloSuccess = $SoloSuccess + $performance>> I turned inward. I played and played and practiced til my fingers ached. I skipped school to spend more time on my set and how I'd perform it. <<set $sales = 6>> <<if $Dad == 0>><<set $sales ++>><</if>> <<set $sales = $sales + $social + $discipline + $Confident>> The promoter had sent a wedge of 100 pre-sale tickets, and encouraged me to work my ass off selling them to my fans. Fans. I didn't have any fans yet, so even with my friends and acquaintances, this would be a challenge. The next few weeks saw a flurry of hustling. <<if $Mother == "family">><<set $sales += 2>>My big brother and sister both bought tickets<</if>><<print $FName>> and some of her crew agreed to come, and to bring some friends. It seemed like the lamest thing in the world for me to invite my ''family'' to a __rock__ show, but we needed the numbers, so I asked <<print $MName>> and <<print $DName>><<if $Dad == 0>>. Even, <<print $EDName>>, a<<else>>. A<</if>>ll were __overly__ eager to attend. And 'help'. It was incredibly difficult selling gig tickets. The important tests and papers were due for the year, Prom Committee was in session, dork conventions -- there were reasons aplenty to be busy. But I worked hard, and I managed to sell <<print $sales>> tickets to the show. Not quite 100, was it. Having a bigger crowd would impress the judges and give me a much broader cheering section. How would I close the gap? <div id ="sales"><<link "Play at school">><<replace "#sales">><<set $sales = $sales + $Attractiveness + $performance + $wiles + $Confident>>Surprisingly, it was during a detention that I was able to finagle a lunchtime performance slot for <<print $BandName>>. Principal Mark was receptive enough and 'glad to know I had that outlet'. I was fucking //nervous// to be playing in front of people who knew me, who razzed me, who would never forget this. But I insisted it to myself that it was great practice. The acoustics of the school mall concrete walls and metal lockers weren't great for the sound, but I definitely convinced some people that the earlier ticket sales was for a real gig. I felt more at ease now, shaken some of my demons and gotten some live errors out of the way, all that was left was to [[practice and play|HS002 - SoloBattle2]] <</replace>><</link>>? <<link "Plaster promo posters">><<replace "#sales">><<set $sales = $sales + $Attractiveness + $Risky + $Easy + $Excitable - $Stable - $Sophisticated + $performance + $wiles>>I conscripted <<print $FName>> to be our photographer and we spent an afternoon in our full regalia. For them, it was essentially their day-to-day clothes. For me, I was slutting it up. Posing as if I was playing, and I strutted in front of her, mostly with my guitar out of the way. I showed off leg, cleavage, stomach...as much bare skin as possible. There was a reason girls made for great performers -- a pin-up is a pin-up. We converted the best pics into posters and some social media and spent the next couple days spreading them over the school, near the venue and coffee shops. I did not put my number on the tear tags, thankfully <<print $Friend1>> was willing to field the pervy requests for tickets. All that was left was to [[practice and play|HS002 - SoloBattle2]]. <</replace>><</link>> with myself front-and-center...and showing off? [[Go with what I had|HS002 - SoloBattle2][$performance ++]] and focus on practicing?</div>And then, it was the night. I ambled down with my guitar, stomach weak, palms sweaty -- you get it. After struggling through a sound check that I strained to understand, followed by an agonizing, too-long wait in a dingy dressing room, it was showtime. As I stepped onto a //massive// stage for a solo act, I had a sick feeling of dread churning in my stomach. The promoter, as I passed, commented that he was <<if $sales < 20>><<set $SoloSuccess -->>very underwhelmed by my part of the door<<elseif $sales < 40>>thankful for my part of the door<<else>><<set $SoloSuccess ++>>sincerely grateful for my work to bring people in<</if>>. It was a big, dark venue and so it felt as though no one was out there. We'd been told there were more than <<set $sales = $sales + 100>><<print $sales>> people here. For a second, it felt like we'd be playing to an empty room. Then <<print $FName>> woo'd from somewhere past the bright lights. Other voices followed suit and I began to notice familiar faces peeking up at the stage. Where //I// was. Oh, shit. "I'm <<print $Name>>...<<print $Name>> <<print $Surname>>..." Shit. Too late to back out. I began to fret, stepping into to the microphone and <<linkreplace "opened my mouth">>opened my mouth, dropping into it and belting out as I strummed. <<if $SoloSuccess gt 10>>My melody line danced out of the club's PA. I'd been staring intently at my fretboard, but looked up to see <<if $Undies == "Commando">><<print $FName>> making broad gesticulations and mouthing something to me. That's when I realized that not only was I flashing the audience, her insistence on letting me know was bringing more attention to my <<if $Pubes == "bald">>smooth pussy<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>hidden slit<<elseif $Pubes == "strip">>arrow of hair pointing down<<elseif $Pubes == "bikini">>sign of pubic maturity<</if>>. A quick cross of my legs, but I missed a beat and the right chord. I could hear the chuckle from the audience...and some clapping.<<else>><<print $FName>> smiling and nodding.<</if>> Yet somehow, her grin encouraged me, and I felt a surge of confidence. I was fucking nailing it! Thirty minutes later, I climbed down off the stage, a huge grin on my face. Somehow, everything went...right? I couldn't wait to see the videos that people had recorded. I felt like I was just steps from being a rock star. The rest of the night was a blur -- hanging with friends, family, and random metalheads; waiting anxiously for the judges to deliver their verdict. In the end, I won second place, coming in behind a slicker little hottie in her twenties, Sara Morales. It meant I wouldn't win the record contract, but it encouraged me to keep trying and maybe utilize that studio time and record something. One guy from the audience told me that he ''loved'' me, but I wasn't quite sure his motivations. Yet, in the midst of hanging out with everyone, I felt a tug at my elbow and, about to give Andrew a hug for being there for me, I noticed he was making pointed looks to a man standing nearby. "Uh, hey." I said, impressive opening. "I'm Willy, I was on the judging panel. You really rocked it, tonight." I beamed, he didn't say anything else but he handed me his business card! And then...it was over. I had put on a fucking show, but now I couldn't distract myself from [[school life|HS002 - PromDress]] any longer. <<else>> My melody line danced out of the club's PA. I'd been staring intently at my fretboard, but looked up to see <<if $Undies == "Commando">><<print $FName>> making broad gesticulations and mouthing something to me. That's when I realized that not only was I flashing the audience, her insistence on letting me know was bringing more attention to my <<if $Pubes == "bald">>smooth pussy<<elseif $Pubes == "bush">>hidden slit<<elseif $Pubes == "strip">>arrow of hair pointing down<<elseif $Pubes == "bikini">>sign of pubic maturity<</if>>. A quick cross of my legs, but I missed a beat and the right chord. I could hear the chuckle from the audience...and some clapping.<<else>><<print $FName>> smiling and nodding.<</if>> Yet somehow, her grin encouraged me, and I felt a surge of confidence. I was fucking nailing it! Thirty minutes later, I climbed down off the stage, a huge grin on my face. Somehow, everything went...right? I couldn't wait to see the videos that people had recorded. I felt like I was just steps from being a rock star. The rest of the night was a blur -- hanging with friends, family, and random metalheads; waiting anxiously for the judges to deliver their verdict. It meant I wouldn't win the record contract, but it encouraged me to keep trying and maybe utilize that studio time and record something. One guy from the audience told me that he ''loved'' me, but I wasn't quite sure his motivations. In the end, I placed fourth out of ten acts -- not what I'd hoped for, but not dead last. It meant I wouldn't win the studio time or the record contract, but everybody still encouraged me to keep trying. And then...it was over. I had put on a fucking show, but now I couldn't distract myself from [[school life|HS002 - PromDress]] any longer.<</if>><</linkreplace>>...<<set $BandWin = $Attractiveness + $performance + $Confident>> <div id = "band">As I sat on the beat-up couch in <<print $Friend1>>'s garage, I mulled over how cliché the whole idea was. I hadn't opened my mouth yet -- watching them fight over what was better: Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch -- but would we really be a garage band? Was that lame? It certainly didn't lend any cred or novelty to whatever we would be. "Cool Ranch." Not a deciding vote, but the fact that I had weighed in shocked them to rapt attention. "So, I just got like, this new guitar and I was really thinking about, like...starting a band?" "With who?" came the response in stereo. Were they dense or was my //idea// that dumb? I let the question linger, hoping my non-response would let them figure it out. Ethan was the first to visibly register, "Dude, with me? With us?" He corrected, "I mean, do you guys even play?" And they dove back into argument. I laughed, because I knew that it meant they were <<link "down">><<replace "#band">>down. Ethan was keen to show off on the drums, he made out like it was for us, but I think it was mostly for me. He wasn't bad. <<print $Friend1>> could play guitar as well, but they all agreed I should be front and center...and since I didn't //have// a bass, well, he'd be willing to lend a hand there. Andrew had taken piano growing up, so he pulled out his electric keyboard from the attic -- his Mom was more than happy for a renewed interest. Once I felt confident in us actually forming, my brain started to kick around names. Surely, we'd need a name...what about <<textbox "$BandName" "Eggplant Abuse">>. Cool. I'd mention it later. Now we just had to whip this rag-tag group into a mean [[rocking machine|HS002 - MusicBand2]].<</replace>><</link>></div>Our usual gaming and hangout sessions quickly shifted into band practice. We began to find our rhythm and, just like what kind of Doritos was best, eventually aligned on what we'd even play. It'd be covers and with a little give and take, we agreed on a 'demo' list. And then, like it was the most important thing in the world, we got into a fight over the name. "Naked Tuna!" Ethan screamed for the fiftieth time. "Dude. The Flying Fuck is funny." Drew sighed and shook his head. <<print $Friend1>>, comfortable and grinning with the contest, kicked out another name that was completely different than his last suggestion, "Indiscreet Priori" "What. Does. That even //mean//?" Ethan was red in the face. I needed to step in. I would make the decision. <div id="bandname"><<link "Naked Tuna">><<replace "#bandname">><<set $BandName = "Naked Tuna">><<set $BandWin -->>"<<print $BandName>>." Andrew glowered, <<print $Friend1>> shrugged. "//Thank// you, <<print $Name>>!" Ethan cheered, dropping onto the couch beside <<print $Friend1>> and I. "Well, we got a name. Now what?" They all looked to me. I had initiated the idea. I had just decided the band name. I guess I was leading us. I __was__ the lead singer. "So -- now don't kill me -- but I ''did'' see this poster down at <<if $hometown == "NY">>Webster Hall<<elseif $hometown == "WA">>Paramount Theatre<<elseif $hometown == "AL">>The Crossing<<elseif $hometown == "LA">>The Roxy Theatre<<else>>"The Stage"<</if>> that's doing...a battle of the bands?" Andrew's mouth practically dropped open in disbelief. <<print $Friend1>> gave me a thump on my arm, "Sick." Ethan jumped up from the couch, [[cheering again|HS002 - BandBattle]], "<<print $BandName>>!"<</replace>><</link>> <<link "The Flying Fuck">><<replace "#bandname">><<set $BandName = "The Flying Fuck">>"<<print $BandName>>." Ethan glowered, <<print $Friend1>> shrugged. "//Thank// you, <<print $Name>>!" Andrew cheered, dropping onto the couch beside <<print $Friend1>> and I. "Well, we got a name. Now what?" They all looked to me. I had initiated the idea. I had just decided the band name. I guess I was leading us. I __was__ the lead singer. "So -- now don't kill me -- but I ''did'' see this poster down at <<if $hometown == "NY">>Webster Hall<<elseif $hometown == "WA">>Paramount Theatre<<elseif $hometown == "AL">>The Crossing<<elseif $hometown == "LA">>The Roxy Theatre<<else>>"The Stage"<</if>> that's doing...a battle of the bands?" Ethan's mouth practically dropped open in disbelief. <<print $Friend1>> gave me a thump on my arm, "Sick." Drew jumped up from the couch, cheering again, "[[$BandName|HS002 - BandBattle]]!" <</replace>><</link>> <<link "The Indiscreet Priori">><<replace "#bandname">><<set $BandName = "The Indiscreet Priori">><<set $BandWin ++>>"<<print $BandName>>." Andrew and Ethan glowered, <<print $Friend1>>'s head flicked back, guffawing loudly. "Sick!" It took a solid minute before he stopped laughing. Triumphant? Surprised? Both, probably. "Well, we got a name. Now what?" They all looked to me. I had initiated the idea. I had just decided the band name. I guess I was leading us. I __was__ the lead singer. "So -- now don't kill me -- but I ''did'' see this poster down at <<if $hometown == "NY">>Webster Hall<<elseif $hometown == "WA">>Paramount Theatre<<elseif $hometown == "AL">>The Crossing<<elseif $hometown == "LA">>The Roxy Theatre<<else>>"The Stage"<</if>> that's doing...a battle of the bands?" Andrew's mouth practically dropped open in disbelief. Ethan grunted and got up, moving over to the drums, squaring up to start to play. <<print $Friend1>> gave me a thump on my arm, "[[$BandName|HS002 - BandBattle]]!" <</replace>><</link>> The name I already had in my head: <<print $BandName>>...that'd do far better. Now to <<link "sell it...">><<replace "#bandname">><<set $BandWin += 2>>"<<print $BandName>>." Andrew turned his head, dog-like, as he considered. <<print $Friend1>> nodded, lips pursed. "That's actually better than Naked Tuna." Ethan surprisingly gave in, dropping onto the couch beside <<print $Friend1>> and I. "Well, we got a name. Now what?" They all looked to me. I had initiated the idea. I had just came up with our band name. I guess I was leading us. I __was__ the lead singer. "So -- now don't kill me -- but I ''did'' see this poster down at <<if $hometown == "NY">>Webster Hall<<elseif $hometown == "WA">>Paramount Theatre<<elseif $hometown == "AL">>The Crossing<<elseif $hometown == "LA">>The Roxy Theatre<<else>>"The Stage"<</if>> that's doing...a battle of the bands?" Andrew's mouth practically dropped open in disbelief. <<print $Friend1>> gave me a thump on my arm, "Sick." Ethan jumped up from the couch, cheering again, "[[$BandName|HS002 - BandBattle]]!" <</replace>><</link>></div><<set $sales = 8>> <<if $Dad == 0>><<set $sales ++>><</if>> <<set $sales = $sales + $social + $discipline + $Confident>> We signed up that afternoon. They were surprised to see more than a cash prize on the table: a deal with a record label. There was also coaching and studio time to record a demo for the runner-up. All of us agreed that without anything to our name, it'd be hard to get gigs beyond playing for our classmates out of this garage. Winning this could be a game changer. The promoter sent a wedge of 100 pre-sale tickets, and encouraged us to work our asses off selling them to our fans. Fans. We didn't have any fans yet, so even with our myriad of friends and acquaintances, this would be a challenge. The next few weeks saw a flurry of hustling from the four of us. <<if $Mother == "family">><<set $sales += 2>>My big brother and sister both bought tickets<</if>><<print $FName>> and some of her crew agreed to come, and to bring some friends. It seemed like the lamest thing in the world for a band to invite all their ''parents'' to a //rock// show, but we needed the numbers, so I asked <<print $MName>> and <<print $DName>>. <<if $Dad == 0>>Even, <<print $EDName>><</if>> all were __overly__ eager to attend. And 'help'. It was incredibly difficult selling gig tickets. The important tests and papers were due for the year, Prom Committee was in session, dork conventions, there were reasons aplenty to be busy. But we worked hard, and <<print $BandName>> managed to sell <<print $sales>> tickets to the show. Not quite 100, was it. Having a bigger crowd would impress the judges and give us a much broader cheering section. How would we close the gap? <div id ="sales"><<link "Play at school">><<replace "#sales">><<set $sales = $sales + $Attractiveness + $performance + $wiles + $Confident>>Surprisingly, it was during a detention that I was able to finagle a lunchtime performance slot for <<print $BandName>>. Principal Mark was receptive enough and 'glad to know I had that outlet'. The guys seemed quite nervous to be playing in front of people who knew them, who razzed them, who would never forget this. But I insisted it was a great practice for us. They hunkered down and we rocked it out. The acoustics of the school mall concrete walls and metal lockers weren't great for the sound, but we definitely convinced some people that the earlier ticket sales was for a real gig. The Boys also seemed more at ease now, shaken some of their demons and gotten some live errors out of the way, all that was left was to [[practice and play|HS002 - BandBattle2]] <</replace>><</link>>? <<link "Plaster promo posters">><<replace "#sales">><<set $sales = $sales + $Attractiveness + $Risky + $Easy + $Excitable - $Stable - $Sophisticated + $performance + $wiles>>I conscripted <<print $FName>> to be our photographer and we spent an afternoon in our full regalia. For them, it was essentially their day-to-day clothes. For me, I was slutting it up. Posing as if we were playing, and I strutted in front of them, mostly with my guitar out of the way. I showed off leg, cleavage, stomach...as much bare skin as possible. There was a reason Rock Girls made for great front 'men'. We converted the best pics into posters and some social media and spent the next couple days spreading them over the school, near the venue and coffee shops. I did not put my number on the tear tags, thankfully <<print $Friend1>> was willing to field the pervy requests for tickets. All that was left was to [[practice and play|HS002 - BandBattle2]]. <</replace>><</link>> with myself front-and-center...and showing off? [[Go with what we had|HS002 - BandBattle2]]?</div><<set $TestScore -->> The preparation's hectic -- rehearsing, songwriting and selling tickets, all while pulling the Boys away from working on their upcoming exams -- I certainly was putting them on the bottom of the stack. We were all feeling the pressure, but Ethan and Drew were taking it out on each other, clashing over every single decision. And when they fought, not only was I frustrated, but <<print $Friend1>> seemed ready to drop his bass and get back to Bass Fishing Pro. Leaning over to <<print $Friend1>>, I whispered, "Go take a break." He nodded, clearly thankful and left the garage. Ethan and Andrew seemed completely ensconced in their argument and didn't notice him depart, or me moving over to the garage door control. They both looked shocked as it began to rumble and roll down. It was time to convince them. But how. <div id = "fight"><<link "Lay down the law">><<replace "#fight">><<if $Confident gte $Suggestible>><<set $BandCohesion == true>>//I// ran this show. "Guys. Come on. We're //so// close." I hit a cymbal and mashed a nasty cord. I looked at each of them. "But we're not going to get there like this." "Then //he// needs to keep a steady beat." Andrew jabbed at Ethan. "Maybe if I could tell what part of the song we were at, melody man." Ethan came right back. "Guys!" I shook my head. "Ready for some tough love? Ethan. You're the pace. But listen to <<print $Friend1>>, he'll keep you on track. Drew, you can't be improvising. You know what to play. Play. It." They thought. Nodded. After a beat, I got up, kissed each of them on the cheek, "Thanks." And grabbed <<print $Friend1>>. They [[settled down|HS002 - TheBattle]]. <<else>><<set $BandCohesion == false>> //I// ran this show. "Guys. Come on. We're //so// close." I hit a cymbal and mashed a nasty cord. I looked at each of them. "But we're not going to get there like this." "Then //he// needs to keep a steady beat." Andrew jabbed at Ethan. "Maybe if I could tell what part of the song we were at, melody man." Ethan came right back. "Guys!" I shook my head. "Ready for some tough love? Ethan. You're the pace. But listen to <<print $Friend1>>, he'll keep you on track. Drew, you can't be improvising. You know what to play. Play. It." I could see them broiling from my comments. They glared at me. "They won't notice us with you screeching like a Banshee." Andrew cut back. "Can't even do a stage walk to save her life." Ethan rolled his eyes. Tears came. "Thanks." I sauntered off, hearing them squabbling behind me. <<print $Friend1>> looked surprised to see me with glistening cheeks. I shrugged and brought him back to play. Maybe we all needed tough love. We [[powered through|HS002 - TheBattle]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>>? <<if $Easy gt 2>><<link "Give them something else">><<replace "#fight">><<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<set $BandCohesion == true>>"Guys. Come on. We're //so// close." I dropped down to the carpet in front of them. Pleadingly, I looked at each of them. "But we're not going to get there like this." "Then //he// needs to keep a steady beat." Andrew jabbed at Ethan. "Maybe if I could tell what part of the song we were at, melody man." Ethan came right back. "Guys!" My top was off, tits out. I cocked my head to the side and smiled. "There. Now that you're thinking about something else--" "Can...I feel?" Ethan asked. I glared. "Oh, come on." "//If// you both promise to get your act together. Our act." He nodded emphatically. I stood up and moved over to them, trying to bear it as they took one a piece and played with them for a few moments. Awkwardly, I tried to pull my top back on and end the playtime so we could actually play. "Don't tell <<print $Friend1>>." They both laughed and nodded. "Thanks." I sauntered off, hearing them squabbling behind me. <<print $Friend1>> looked surprised to see me with glistening cheeks. I shrugged and brought him back to play. I hoped that was a one-off. I hoped that would work. Maybe I shouldn't have breached the barrier of friendship. We [[powered through|HS002 - TheBattle]]. <<else>><<set $BandCohesion == false>> "Guys. Come on. We're //so// close." I dropped down to the carpet in front of them. Pleadingly, I looked at each of them. "But we're not going to get there like this." "Then //he// needs to keep a steady beat." Andrew jabbed at Ethan. "Maybe if I could tell what part of the song we were at, melody man." Ethan came right back. "Guys!" My top was off, tits out. I cocked my head to the side and smiled. "There. Now that you're thinking about something else--" "You gonna do that during the show? Might actually get us to win." Ethan laughed and smiled, giving Drew a high-five. "Better than anything else she's doing." Drew gave Ethan one back. Tears came. "Thanks." I sauntered off, hearing them squabbling behind me. <<print $Friend1>> looked surprised to see me with glistening cheeks. I shrugged and brought him back to play. Maybe I shouldn't have breached the barrier of friendship. We [[powered through|HS002 - TheBattle]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>> to think about?<</if>> <<link "Appeal to their friendship">><<replace "#fight">><<set $BandCohesion == true>>"Guys. Come on. We're //so// close." I dropped down to the carpet in front of them. Pleadingly, I looked at each of them. "But we're not going to get there like this." "Then //he// needs to keep a steady beat." Andrew jabbed at Ethan. "Maybe if I could tell what part of the song we were at, melody man." Ethan came right back. "Guys!" I shook my head. "Weren't we friends?" "We...are." Andrew said slowly, a part of his brain activating. Ethan nodded. "So. Can we all just take a step back, think about ''that'' first? Maybe focus on the band as a whole, us as a team, The Boys rocking it out with me? Probably...//probably// you're both right?" They thought. Nodded. After a beat, I got up, kissed each of them on the cheek, "Thanks." And grabbed <<print $Friend1>>. They [[settled down|HS002 - TheBattle]].<</replace>><</link>>?</div><<if $BandCohesion == true>><<set $BandWin ++>><<set $Memories.push("Nearly won Battle of the Bands")>>We crammed in practice sessions more and more as the date came upon us. We skipped school fully that last day.<<else>>We practiced less and less as the date approached, but I managed to get us all together enough that we didn't bail on the competition entirely.<<set $BandWin -= 2>><</if>> Suddenly, it was the night of the show, and <<print $BandName>> was the opening act! After struggling through a sound check that none of us really understood, followed by an agonizing, too-long wait in a dingy dressing room, it was showtime. I followed Andrew out onto the massive stage, a sick feeling of dread churning in my stomach. The promoter commented that he was <<if $sales < 20>><<set $BandWin -->>very underwhelmed by our part of the door<<elseif $sales < 40>>thankful for our part of the door<<else>><<set $BandWin ++>>sincerely grateful for our work to bring people in<</if>>. It was a big, dark venue and so it felt as though no one was out there. We'd been told there were more than <<set $sales = $sales + 100>><<print $sales>> people here. For a second, it felt like we'd be playing to an empty room. Then <<print $FName>> woo'd from somewhere past the bright lights. Other voices followed suit and I began to notice familiar faces peeking up at the stage. Where we were. Where //I// was. Oh, shit. "We are <<print $BandName>>," Ethan snarled into the mic. "Hit it!" He smashed his hi-hat cymbal four times, hard and fast, and it was too late to back out. I began to fret, stepping up to the microphone and <<linkreplace "opened my mouth">>opened my mouth, dropping into it and screaming out as I strummed. <<if $BandWin gt 11>>My melody line danced out of the club's PA, perfectly locked in to Ethan's pounding tom-tom beat. <<print $Friend1>>'s bass a monster underlying it all. I'd been staring intently at my fretboard, but looked up to see Andrew nodding at me intently, his hands driving away at the keys. His grin encouraged me, and I felt a surge of confidence. We were fucking nailing it! Thirty minutes later, we climbed down off the stage, a huge grin on my face. Somehow, everything went...right? -- especially Andrew's keyboard solo. I couldn't wait to see the videos that people had recorded. That night? We felt like we were just steps from being a rock star. The rest of it was a blur -- selling 'merch'; hanging with friends, family, and random metalheads; waiting anxiously for the judges to deliver their verdict. In the end <<print $BandName>> won second place, coming in behind a slicker rock band in their twenties called The Peepos. It meant we wouldn't win the record contract, but it encouraged us to keep trying and maybe utilize that studio time and record something. One guy from the audience told me that he ''loved'' my band, but I wasn't quite sure his motivations -- especially given what I was wearing. Yet, in the midst of hanging out with everyone, I felt a tug at my elbow and Andrew was making pointed looks to a man standing nearby. "Uh, hey." I said, impressive opening. "I'm Willy, I was on the judging panel. You really rocked it, tonight." I beamed, he didn't say anything else but he handed me his business card! And then...it was over. We had put on a fucking show, but now we couldn't distract ourselves from [[school life|HS002 - PromDress]] any longer. <<else>>Ethan was counting us in way too fast. Everything felt like double time, but something's horribly wrong -- it takes me a few seconds to realize <<print $Friend1>> and I were playing a totally different song. Fuck, fuck, //fuck//! They had changed the set around, but with all the pressure, I just forgot! The dissonance sounded atrocious. Everyone was sharing a look of alarm, then <<print $Friend1>> took the initiative. He played some weird, horrible-sounding chords on his bass, making a big sonic mess, then Ethan grabs the cymbals and silence drops on the stage. A soft, "One, two, three, four," -- counting the song in again and we started over, playing together this time. The whole thing lasted less than five seconds, but it was a hell of a way to start off the biggest show of our life so far. Thirty minutes later, we climbed down off the stage, feeling an incredible sense of relief. That was tough, and our songs fell apart in a few more places -- especially Andrew's keyboard solo. But we made it through the whole set, and a part of me felt stronger for having survived this. Maybe it was then, but I've realized that the problems were way deeper than bumming a few notes. None of us could play very well, the songs were unoriginal, we didn't have our own sound, and nobody really liked our band. That night? We felt like we were just steps from being a rock star. The rest of the night was a blur -- selling 'merch'; hanging with friends, family, and random metalheads; waiting anxiously for the judges to deliver their verdict. In the end, <<print $BandName>> placed third out of four bands -- not what we'd hoped for, but not dead last. It meant we wouldn't win the studio time or the record contract, but everybody still encouraged us to keep trying. And then...it was over. We had put on a fucking show, but now we couldn't distract ourselves from [[school life|HS002 - PromDress]] any longer.<</if>><</linkreplace>>...<<set $PromWin = $Attractiveness>><<set $PromDate to []>> <<if $freetime == "partier" && $hsv == "partier">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "people" && $hsv == "cheer">><<set $Stable += 2>><</if>> The first step was joining the Prom committee, which was simple enough. In theory. <div id = "sigs"><<if $social + $Attractiveness gt 7>>I walked around school for, literally, one lunch period and had enough signatures to join the committee. Good sign! Now I had to [[serve on the committee|HS002 - PromCommit]], prepare and plan Prom while seeing where the lines were drawn as far as my competition. <<elseif $social + $Attractiveness gt 4>>It took me a couple of days, lunch periods, after school...had to to some persuading, but eventually I had enough signatures. Okay. There was work to be done. Now I had to [[serve on the committee|HS002 - PromCommit]], prepare and plan Prom while seeing where the lines were drawn as far as my competition. <<else>>Woof. At the end of the week, I was well shy of the number of signatures I needed. Didn't realize I was this far behind the eight ball. Maybe Prom Queen wasn't in the cards and I should reconsider <<link "where I put my effort" "HS001 - StoryArc">><<set $Stable ++>><</link>>, or <<link "double-down">><<replace "#sigs">> <<set $Confident ++>><<set $discipline ++>>Ignoring whether or not I was annoying people, and cashing in whatever social capital I had, I followed up and found people impressed by my spirit and insistence. I did get the signatures by the deadline. Now I had to [[serve on the committee|HS002 - PromCommit]], prepare and plan Prom while seeing where the lines were drawn as far as my competition. <</replace>><</link>>. <</if>></div>The following Wednesday, lunchtime, the lauded Prom Committee of the year of our Lord...blah blah...commenced. Unsurprisingly, I was amidst my female peers, a couple of guys that were in varying states of the closet, and one guy that had designs on Harvard or Stanford -- everything was on his transcript. "Okay, unwrap whatever you need to unwrap. No disruptions now that we have quorum." Also unsurprisingly, Ava was stepping in as committee chair without a vote being placed, or even everyone fully settled in for our first session. She came from the wealthiest family, had an air of pretention to beat the best of them, and had been on the Prom Committee since she was a Freshman. <div id = "chair">Immediately, a crossroads: make a <<link "motion to vote">><<replace "#chair">> <<if $social gt 3>><<set $Chair = "MC">><<set $PromWin ++>> There were coughs around the room and Ava looked absolutely stunned at my raised hand and request. She tried to make me squirm with her looks and let the discomfort of the silence settle square on me before a vote happened. It was close and I was grasping the edge of my seat as we came around the table, Ava getting the last vote but choosing to abstain when the quick math was done -- I would be Chair. Despite losing, in the same breath with her abstention, Ava grabbed the reins as Secretary -- and from the minutes, of course -- stated the first item on our docket and focus for today's session: Theme. Ava offered, [["Love Under the Sea"|HS002 - PromCommit2]]. Cool colors, fun gobos for lights, opportunities for decoration at all height levels. Mr. Overachiever threw out, [["Alma Maters"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin --]]. Color scheme of their intended college. Sports, celebration, fake champagne. And, solidifying my assumption, one of the other guys entertained, [["Broadway"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin ++]]. Buttoned-up looks for going to a show, New York decor, easier music selection. I simply had to raise my hand and state aloud my support for one of them -- everything here was political and it wasn't just about what the theme ended up being, but who you ingratiated yourself with -- or suggest one of my own: [["Hit Men and Women" flashing some shots of the movie, "Ava"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin --]] <<else>><<set $Chair = "Ava">> There were coughs around the room and Ava looked absolutely stunned at my raised hand and request. She tried to make me squirm with her looks and let the discomfort of the silence settle square on me before a vote happened. It was close, but Ava contentedly took the final vote to clench her win officially. She made a snide comment about further motions and then launched into today's docket item and focus: Theme. Ava offered, [["Love Under the Sea"|HS002 - PromCommit2]]. Cool colors, fun gobos for lights, opportunities for decoration at all height levels. Mr. Overachiever threw out, [["Alma Maters"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin --]]. Color scheme of their intended college. Sports, celebration, fake champagne. And, solidifying my assumption, one of the other guys entertained, [["Broadway"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin ++]]. Buttoned-up looks for going to a show, New York decor, easier music selection. I simply had to raise my hand and state aloud my support for one of them -- everything here was political and it wasn't just about what the theme ended up being, but who you ingratiated yourself with -- or suggest one of my own: [["Hit Men and Women" flashing some shots of the movie, "Ava"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin --]] <</if>> <</replace>><</link>> on committee chair or <<link "let her">><<replace "#chair">> Rather than lean into Ava, I leaned into my lunch. No one else even batted an eye at her assumed leadership. She outlined the themes for previous Proms, a couple of 'incidents' that we would need to ensure did //not// happen again, and the schedule for the evening. The moment she mentioned the crowning of Queen and King made me shake my head, consciously or not, she touched her chest as if implying she'd already won. We'd see. Fighting my pride, we got to the first item on our docket and focus for today's session: Theme. Ava offered, [["Love Under the Sea"|HS002 - PromCommit2]]. Cool colors, fun gobos for lights, opportunities for decoration at all height levels. Mr. Overachiever threw out, [["Alma Maters"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin --]]. Color scheme of their intended college. Sports, celebration, fake champagne. And, solidifying my assumption, one of the other guys entertained, [["Broadway"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin ++]]. Buttoned-up looks for going to a show, New York decor, easier music selection. I simply had to raise my hand and state aloud my support for one of them -- everything here was political and it wasn't just about what the theme ended up being, but who you ingratiated yourself with -- or suggest one of my own: [["Hit Men and Women" flashing some shots of the movie, "Ava"|HS002 - PromCommit2][$PromWin --]] <</replace>><</link>> have the added responsibility.</div>A week later, theme down -- Love Under the Sea had won -- it was time to assign responsibilities. <<if $Chair == "Ava">>She launched into the overbearing demeanor with abandon now that not only she had won, but also her theme. Landslide for Ava. As she detailed the litany of duties ahead of us, there were flicks of her gaze, shifts of her weight that seemed to pre-suppose who would be taking eah of the tasks. Now written on the dry erase board, we went down the list again and the 'volunteers' miraculously fell in line with my (and her) expectations. I knew I was expected to handle the decorations. <div id ="duties">I could do what <<link "Princess wanted">><<replace "#duties">>Decorations it is. Not the most glamorous, and I might have her micro-managing me, but I didn't want to rock the boat. Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "pick something">><<replace "#duties">> I may have made a //bit// of a show of things when the choice rolled around to me, leaning forward, squinting, hmming audibly before selecting <div id = "dutychoice"><<link "staffing">><<replace "#dutychoice">>staffing. <<if $wiles gt 0 || $Confident gt 2>><<set $PromWin ++>><br><br>My ability to get people to show up helped me show my strength.<<else>><<set $PromWin -->><br><br>My ability to wrangle people wasn't as good as I thought it was, though.<</if>><br><br> Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>, <<link "entertainment">><<replace "#dutychoice">>entertainment.<<if $wealth gt 3 || $Sophisticated gt 2>><br><br>I was able to nab a sick DJ no one else knew of.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I only managed to come up with a pretty standard DJ, though.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br> Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>, and <<link "food">><<replace "#dutychoice">>food.<<if $investigation gt 0 || $Risky gt 2>><br><br>Asking around, taking some risks, I broke the convention of typical boring Prom fare.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I ended up making people less happy than just boring Prom snacks.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>></div> <</replace>><</link>> that was left, or take on <<link "extra responsibilities">><<replace "#duties">><<if $discipline gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>><</if>> I may have made a //bit// of a show of things when the choice rolled around to me, grabbing decorations and <div id ="dutychoice"><<link "staffing">><<replace "#dutychoice">>staffing.<<if $wiles gt 0 || $Confident gt 2>><<set $PromWin ++>><br><br>My ability to get people to show up helped me show my strength.<<else>><<set $PromWin -->><br><br>My ability to wrangle people wasn't as good as I thought it was, though.<</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>, <<link "entertainment">><<replace "#dutychoice">>entertainment.<<if $wealth gt 3 || $Sophisticated gt 2>><br><br>I was able to nab a sick DJ no one else knew of.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I only managed to come up with a pretty standard DJ, though.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>><<link "food">>, and <<replace "#dutychoice">>food.<<if $investigation gt 0 || $Risky gt 2>><br><br>Asking around, taking some risks, I broke the convention of typical boring Prom fare.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I ended up making people less happy than just boring Prom snacks.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>in quick succession. Ava wasn't pleased. Which made me happy.</div> <</replace>><</link>>.</div> <<else>> Ava gave me a slight berth to act as Chair before she launched into the overbearing demeanor as Secretary with abandon. Her theme //had// been selected, I was happy to give her a small win. As she detailed the litany of duties ahead of us, there were flicks of her gaze, shifts of her weight that seemed to pre-suppose who would be taking eah of the tasks. Now written on the dry erase board, we went down the list again and the 'volunteers' miraculously fell in line with my (and her) expectations. I knew I was expected to handle the decorations. <div id ="duties">I could do what <<link "Princess wanted">><<replace "#duties">>Decorations it is. Not the most glamorous, and I might have her micro-managing me, but I didn't want to rock the boat. Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in. <</replace>><</link>>, <<link "pick something">><<replace "#duties">> I may have made a //bit// of a show of things when the choice rolled around to me, leaning forward, squinting, hmming audibly before selecting <div id = "dutychoice"><<link "staffing">><<replace "#dutychoice">>staffing. <<if $wiles gt 0 || $Confident gt 2>><<set $PromWin ++>><br><br>My ability to get people to show up helped me show my strength.<<else>><<set $PromWin -->><br><br>My ability to wrangle people wasn't as good as I thought it was, though.<</if>><br><br> Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>, <<link "entertainment">><<replace "#dutychoice">>entertainment.<<if $wealth gt 3 || $Sophisticated gt 2>><br><br>I was able to nab a sick DJ no one else knew of.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I only managed to come up with a pretty standard DJ, though.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br> Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>, and <<link "food">><<replace "#dutychoice">>food.<<if $investigation gt 0 || $Risky gt 2>><br><br>Asking around, taking some risks, I broke the convention of typical boring Prom fare.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I ended up making people less happy than just boring Prom snacks.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>></div> <</replace>><</link>> that was left, or take on <<link "extra responsibilities">><<replace "#duties">><<if $discipline gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>><</if>> I may have made a //bit// of a show of things when the choice rolled around to me, grabbing decorations and <div id ="dutychoice"><<link "staffing">><<replace "#dutychoice">>staffing.<<if $wiles gt 0 || $Confident gt 2>><<set $PromWin ++>><br><br>My ability to get people to show up helped me show my strength.<<else>><<set $PromWin -->><br><br>My ability to wrangle people wasn't as good as I thought it was, though.<</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>, <<link "entertainment">><<replace "#dutychoice">>entertainment.<<if $wealth gt 3 || $Sophisticated gt 2>><br><br>I was able to nab a sick DJ no one else knew of.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I only managed to come up with a pretty standard DJ, though.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>><<link "food">>, and <<replace "#dutychoice">>food.<<if $investigation gt 0 || $Risky gt 2>><br><br>Asking around, taking some risks, I broke the convention of typical boring Prom fare.<<set $PromWin ++>><<else>><br><br>I ended up making people less happy than just boring Prom snacks.<<set $PromWin -->><</if>><br><br>Next was the [[fundraiser|HS002 - PromCommit3]], which everyone hand to participate in.<</replace>><</link>>in quick succession. Ava wasn't pleased. Which made me happy.</div> <</replace>><</link>>.</div> <</if>>The committee was all on there own now. We simply had to do what we could and bring in the green -- making a case to be Queen. <div id = "funds">Now, how would I make sure I brought in the most money and contributed to //this// Prom being the ''best'' Prom? <<if $wealth gt 3>>Straight up <<link "ask my parents">><<replace "#funds">> <<if $wealth == 4>><<set $PromWin ++>>I waited until I had a captive audience at the dinner table, fumbling through a mouthful of food, "So...Prom's coming up. And I'm on the committee..." "That's great!" <<if $Mom == 0>><<print $DName>><<else>><<print $MName>> smiled mid-bite, returning to some documents on the table.<</if>> "Right, but um, so we need to raise money for, like the decorations, and DJ, and food...ya know." I could tell the focus on the documents froze, but I hadn't gotten any distinct reaction, "So I was wondering..." A cough. Hands resettling interlocked at the edge of the table. A shift forward in the seat, "How much are we talking?" I hadn't thought that far. I didn't even know if we had a benchmark. We'd simply been tasked with bringing back as much as possible. "Are all the girls sticking up their parents like this?" I smiled sheepishly and gave a little shrug. "Is...that okay?" A sigh now. A shake of the head, chair feet scraping across the floor. The checkbook was pulled from a drawer. "I would have preferred you work for it...but I'm not going to have you be the only one coming back empty handed. Here." The ink was fresh and I pocketed it quickly -- as if it could be taken back at any moment. The rest of the dinner was spent with the extolling of the virtue of work and personal self-sufficiency, now //I// was the captive audience. <<elseif $wealth == 5>><<set $PromWin += 2>>I strolled into the house and caught a moment in the kitchen, my hands busy picking out an afternoon snack, "So...Prom's coming up. And I'm on the committee..." "That's great!" <<if $Mom == 0>><<print $DName>><<else>><<print $MName>> smiled, but remained scanning some documents on the table.<</if>> "Right, but um, so we need to raise money for, like the decorations, and DJ, and food...ya know." I hadn't gotten any distinct reaction, time to be direct: "So I was wondering..." Without lifting an eye from the papers, "How much are we talking?" I hadn't thought that far. I didn't even know if we had a benchmark. We'd simply been tasked with bringing back as much as possible. While I remained frozen, a checkbook had been pulled from a drawer and the pen was already scribbling. Remaining motionless, for fear of upsetting what looked to be a win, I watched the check tear free and extend my way. The ink was fresh and I pocketed it quickly. The papers, whatever they were held far more import than the amount of money that would be leaving the bank account. Snacks in hand, I carefully backed out of the kitchen, leaving the conversation as short as it already was. <</if>> Waltzing back into school with the check fluttering from my fingers was an exhilarating and empowering feeling. And super [[easy|HS002 - PromCamp]]. <</replace>><</link>>?<</if>> A tried and true <<link "bake sale">><<replace "#funds">>I spent the weekend trying out a few recipes and settling on an assortment of cookies using matcha and brownies using just loads of chocolate. Gotta appeal to all kinds of people! During my free periods and lunch, I set up in the mall, offering my baked goods for a donation to the Prom Committee. By the end of the day I had gotten rid of my supply, a few donations short simply because Ethan grabbed a couple when I wasn't looking. All in all, it wasn't a great haul and it seemed kids were mostly over the cookies and brownies that had been popping up for the past week. Even sugar gets old. All the same, I made my [[contribution|HS002 - PromCamp]]. <</replace>><</link>>? I'm sure at least the guys would contribute to a <<link "carwash">><<replace "#funds">>So, I advertised throughout the week that on Friday, me and <<print $FName>> would be hanging out in the parking lot in bikinis and taking donations in exchange for a car wash. There was a <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>good<<elseif $Attractiveness gt 5>>fantastic<<else>>fair<</if>> response and more than a few lewd ideas and comments. Also had to deal with some abuse from Ava and her cohort calling me a slut. But it didn't stop me. The hot asphalt proved to be a bigger issue than some cat calls or slut-shaming. <<print $FName>> and I squealed as we scrambled out from the locker room, bodies bouncing across to where we'd had the Boys set up the suds and hose. They were first in line too, smiling as they watched us bound over, trying not to burn our soles and eager to get to washing so that we'd cool down. <<if $Risky gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>><<print $FName>> had been surprised seeing me suit up and a little embarrassed, as if she had missed the memo. I knew I had made a good choice then, skimpy string-tie bikini that clung in all the right places and showed off everything that people wanted to see. There'd certainly be wardrobe malfunctions and the thin material wouldn't hide creases and pokes once it got wet.<<else>><<print $FName>> and I were wearing matching but complimentary bikinis. We had fun picking them out and debating the merits of how well they'd endure the effort, movement and threat of water. They weren't anything extra, but they'd show skin! And I could tell she was happy that it wasn't something too scandalous.<</if>> <<if $Excitable gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>>We leaned into the 'idea', play fighting with hoses and soap, knowing we were on display but just accepting it and considering it part of the job. We took our time with the cars, their drivers fine with the slow work as they stood outside and watched us.<<else>><<set $PromWin -->>We got some 'boos' and 'lame' as we set to work and I was confused until I realized that we weren't playing into the whole girl car wash fantasy. So, I tried to turn it on and laugh and bounce a bit but it just didn't feel natural and I could tell. They all were content to watch anyway, though. Bikinis and water is like chocolate and peanut butter, good is good. <</if>> My skin prickled a bit, heat rising in my cheeks as phones came out to record and snap pictures. I shouldn't have been surprised given what we were doing and what we were wearing, but I don't think I'd really considered it when I came up with the idea. <<if $Confident gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>>I got into it, posing wet and sudsy with the drivers at the end of a job well done, doing little walks around the car 'checking' for missed spots but mostly just letting them film.<<else>>Without making it too obvious (it was obvious), I was ducking around the cars and using it to block as much of myself as possible -- I had a preternatural sense for phones coming out by the end of the day.<</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>>And of course there were guys that tried to push their luck, some even going so far as to offer extra cash for some extras. And I was there to make cash, so I said yes more than no. I assumed special poses, climbing on cars and feeling like I was straight out of a National Lampoon or 80s rock video. Guys got a grope or a kiss, or a grope while kissing. <<print $FName>> wasn't pleased to be shouldered with the actual work as I was pressed against a door and made out with for a few minutes. The more adventurous the guys got, the more adventurous the next guys were, but the cash hanging limp from my bikini made up for it.<<else>>Guys were gross, asking for 'extras' and offering cash, but I wasn't a sugar baby or prostitute. It was offensive and they quickly got the hint by and large, but offers came across time and again.<</if>> Water, working, bikinis, and all the stretching, changing positions and movements made for slippage way more than normally happened at the pool or beach. <<if $Easy gt 1>><<set $PromWin ++>>And that's how it was, at least once per car a tit popped out or my pussy was showing and it took a while to notice most of the time, trying to get through the growing line of cars. And no one pointed it out very often. Eventually, I just got frustrated and once I was sure the administration was gone for the day I lost my top, much to <<print $FName>>'s chagrin and not too much later my full bikini was just a soaked pile in the grass nearby, naked and fine with it. Easier than readjusting and they liked it better too.<</if>> All part and parcel of what the whole concept was, I guess. They didn't mind. <<print $FName>> was blushing a ton. When we counted up the soaked bills at the end of the night, exhausted and surprisingly dirty for having spent hours in soap, I was surprised by how little we had raised. Maybe we'd lost cash to the wind and water, maybe it was just the guys who took the offer at face value -- quite a few handed over a single dollar as their donation. Greedy and got what they wanted. But still, I felt like even with a paltry stack, I had built up some capital that would be cashed in during the [[competition|HS002 - PromCamp]]. <</replace>><</link>>.</div>Now the the pedestrian aspect of the committee was concluded, I could focus on what really mattered. General opinion was that <<if $Attractiveness gt 4>>there was only one who stood a chance: Ava.<<else>>it was at best a fifty-fifty shot against my nemesis: Ava.<</if>> I knew that my girl <<print $FName>> would be in my camp -- she was already mastering camera angles for the publicity shot. But, what about the guys? Getting male support would only help build credibility with the other half of the vote. I steeled myself for rejection, and showed up to the weekly "The Boys" hang and with an awkward teenage 'casualness' dropped, "So, would you guys be cool to help me win Prom Queen?" <<print $Friend1>> gave a look of death, "And care about a dog show?" Andrew punched him in the arm, "Ava is *not* a dog." Ethan took a moment from his phone, "He means 'cause it's all bitches. Get it, dude?" It was not going to be easy. How was I going to approach it? <<if $Attractiveness gt 2>>It'd be weird, but I considered using my [[feminine charms|HS002 - PromCharm]]? Ethan seemed to think I was cute. And guys ''are'' guys.<</if>> <<if $learning gt 0>>Or maybe get them to understand the [[rational benefits|HS002 - PromConvince]] of being friends with the Prom Queen.<</if>> Or, just skip it. This was a [[bad idea|HS002 - CampaignFail]]<<set $wiles ++>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 4>> I scooted over to Ethan on the carpet. He was entranced by Paper Mario. I let my forearms apply some upward pressure to my cleavage and leaned my head slightly on this shoulder. I felt him startle, but I didn't push it...waiting. Then he noticed, eyes on my proffered skin and pause flashed on the screen. "You don't think //I'm// a dog, do you?" "Uh...no?" He squeaked slightly. "No. You're //not//." I looked over my shoulder and, as planned, <<print $Friend1>> was getting some upskirt. <<if $Undies == "Commando">>He did seem shocked to be getting to see my pink smile.<</if>> "So...you think I've got a shot." Stunned silence. Andrew leaning in for a view. I took it as a sign that I had them, my feet and fists thumped against the carpet in excitement, a little squeal. My thighs parted a bit more and my body jiggled, fully on purpose. My [[thank you|HS002 - Prom2]]. <<else>> I scooted over to Ethan on the carpet. He was entranced by Paper Mario. I let my forearms apply some upward pressure to my cleavage and leaned my head slightly on this shoulder. I felt him startle, but I didn't push it...waiting. Then he noticed, eyes on my proffered skin and pause flashed on the screen. "You don't think //I'm// a dog, do you?" He frowned, confused. "What...what are you talkin' about, <<print $Name>>?" "Yeah." I looked over my shoulder and, as planned, <<print $Friend1>> was getting some upskirt. <<if $Undies == "Commando">>He did seem shocked to be getting to see my pink smile.<</if>> Neither of them looked convinced. I was floored. Offended, "Really? I'm that fugly? You don't believe I could actually win?" They looked at each other. "I'm not saying it" in their expression, but their mouths were mum. <<if $Risky gt 0>>Maybe just [[flash them my tits|HS002 - PromFlash]]?<</if>> That was harder than I thought. [[Damn|HS002 - CampaignFail]].<</if>><<set $deception ++>>"Think about it, guys. We hang out on a ''weekly'' basis. I don't do that with anyone else. You'd be the Prom Queen's guys. The //choice// guys. Can you imagine what that makes girls think?" Their faces went from extremely doubtful to salivating with that final sentence. The room was quiet. They were hanging on my every word, oh sex guru... "I promise you, this is cache that will last you straight through graduation." Ethan nodded, finally, "You win, we win." "[[Exactly|HS002 - Prom2]]."<<set $wiles ++>> "How about I show you my tits?" Ethan's phone clattered to the ground -- and it did not sound good. All their eyes were on my chest before I could even clock that I had said the words. Their jaws slack. "W-w-what?" the grin growing on <<print $Friend1>>'s face was almost Pennywise-like. "Look. It's no big deal. I mean, hell, Andrew practically has tits." That broke the tension in the air and reminded everyone you're just one of The Boys. I gave them a firm look: "But I need your full support." Unsurprisingly they nodded emphatically. So, <<link "completed">><<upper>><<bra>><</link>> my end of the bargain -- purely functionally, of course. <<if $Bodytraits.includes("tits")>> Their shock was instant. I could see Ethan's hand twitching as if he was about to take a picture, simply an unbidden reaction of his lizard brain. I hadn't thought through this and needed to end it ASAP. I tugged my top back up, having to slightly dodge <<print $Friend1>> from keeping me from getting decent before they were ready. Andrew went to thump my arm, but it turned into a little bit of an impressed pat, "Fuck, <<print $Name>> you put mine to shame. So, FUCK. Uh, sorry. But, fuuuuck. How can we [[help|HS002 - Prom2]]?" <<else>> They smiled, nodding again, but slower, as if it meant time was drawing out. I could tell they were locking the images away in their memories. Permanently. Then, Andrew thumped on your arm -- and it would bruise -- "Nice. But I got better ones, ya know. So. How can [[we help|HS002 - Prom2]]?"<</if>><<set $PromWin ++>> All my friends rallied around me. <<print $FName>> designed an amazing poster showing off my very best side, and <<print $Friend1>> convinced his dad to run off a few hundred copies from <<if $wealth gt 3>>his printing company<<else>>the Kinko's after-hours<</if>>. They plastered the school hallways with me. My face was __everywhere__. They put the screws to other kids to fill out a ballot selecting me. Ethan in particular went //a little// above and beyond, campaigning for me before and after school! Now, the question was: how much do __I__ spend on the rest of the package -- the dress, the makeup, the hair, the ''date''...The list was endless. I could spend hours on Pinterest and shopping for the __exact__ dress, ''trendiest'' hair and makeup. My little notebook had a could be filled with every potential date and the pros and cons of each one on my arm. <<if $LabelReaction gt 0>>It was [[do or die|HS002 - PromDress][$PromWin ++]], eat or be eaten.<</if>> <<if $LabelReaction lt 0>>Everyone was taking this far more seriously than I was. [[It didn't matter|HS002 - PromDress][$PromWin --]].<</if>> <<if $MaleAttention gt 0>>All eyes on me? I had to be fucking [[perfect|HS002 - PromDress][$PromWin ++; $Sophisticated ++]].<</if>> I could let <<print $FName>> help me <<link "decide" "HS002 - PromDate">><<set $PromWin -->><<set $Confident -->><</link>>.<<if $Clique !== "Alpha">><<set $PromWin = 0>> <<set $PromDate to []>> Everyone else was going, so why shouldn't I? It was a fun time and an important part of the social calendar. It was time for Prom -- but it wouldn't just be something I could simply 'attend'. I had to put in effort and make some decisions. First, the dress. <</if>> It's all about that first look, making an entrance. What will make people stand there in awe of me when I walk in the door; when I dance on the floor<<if $Clique == "Alpha">>; when I stand on stage and receive my (deserved) crown<</if>>? Beggars can't afford to be choosers, literally. I just found something at [[a thrift|HS002 - PromDate][$PromWin --; $Sophisticated --]]. <<if $Easy gt 0>>Rep be damned. I had to [[win over the guys|HS002 - PromDate][$HSBC += 2; $PromWin ++; $Sophisticated --]] and show the girls just how out of their league I was.<</if>> <<if $wealth gt 3>>[[Something classic and classy|HS002 - PromDate][$PromWin += 2; $Sophisticated ++]]. I let the dress accessorize me, not the other way around.<</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>>Shock'em and [[show'em what I had|HS002 - PromDate][$PromWin --; $Sophisticated --]]. Yeah, I'd have to use something on hand and sneak the //real// dress out of the house and change later, but it was worth it.<</if>><<set $PromDate = []>> <<if visited("HS002 - PromDress") == 0>><<print $FName>> spent the entire day with me, multiple shops, so many dressing rooms and lots of laughs. I thought the choice she helped me make was good -- I couldn't trust my indecisiveness anyway.<</if>> <<if $Clique == "Alpha">>Now that the campaign for my Queendom was as solid as it possibly could have been, the next most important thing that could make or break my chances...<<else>>Now that I knew what I was wearing...<</if>>Who was going to take me? There were a number of suitable options:<<nobr>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>Hottest girl and the hottest guy? Sounds like a lock. So, it was with grace (and bottled excitement) that I said "No, no, no, no, no...why, YES, [[Derek|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Derek']], I *am* free that night. I'd love to go with you. Eat your heart out, ladies."<br><br><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>>Too many guys asked me. I couldn't hurt their feelings. And...I //accidentally// said yes to every guy who asked me -- it was a gut reaction. <<if $Clique == "Alpha">> You know the Prom rules state that at most only a pair can be nominated, so...you'd have to run alone.<</if>> [[But you would have seven dates|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Seven']], I'd always have someone to dance with.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0 && $Suggestible gt 0>>There was too much on the line. All I was thinking was, "Anything could go wrong and I can't bear the weight of the choice on my shoulders." So, asked the other girls and they quickly got me a date. An underclassman: [[Stephen|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Stephen']]. I nodded enthusiastically hearing their reasoning for the acne-faced, pudgy redhead, who last week found shit in his locker.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>I noticed that the other girls have gone with the expected guys: boyfriends, star athletes...yawn -- and ''so'' close-minded. It was time to be progressive. And lucky for me, the [[exchange student|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Absame']] from Somalia, Absame. He wasn't any of the normal things you're supposed to look for in a <<if $Clique == "Alpha">>Prom King<<else>>date to prom<</if>>, but time to make a statement, time to be woke.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Clique !== "Alpha" && $Clique !== "Nerd">>The selection didn't have to be made in our bubble. So I considered all the other guys I knew and [[Miguel was hotter than any guy here, by far|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Miguel']].<br><br><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>> He'd never really given me the time of day, and he was a Super Senior with quite a bit of a reputation, so certainly not your top pick. But really, it wouldn't be fair to [[Chad who asked me day one|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Chad']].<br><br><</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>> But actually asking someone? And what if they said no? <<if $Clique == "Alpha">>That would *kill* your chances if people found out.<</if>> Maybe the safe bet was relying on my own charms and just [[take my friend|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Friend']], <<print $Friend1>>. It'd definitely make his year, he was just going to skip the whole thing.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>>It would really throw a wrench in the night if I was able to [[weasel Ava's date out from...over her|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Her Man']]. It would get me a bit of a rep with the girls, but there's only one shot at this, and I'd never see them again after graduation.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0 && $Excitable gt 0 && $Dad == 0>>Fuck the rules. If I really wanted to make myself stand-out, why not [[Arvin|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Arvin']]? He wasn't family. It would really turn heads. Adults would probably think it was endearing...and he definitely had a hot-dad vibe to him. Everyone would be talking.<br><br><</if>> <<if visited("HS002 - Tutor")>>The only person I could think of right now was [[Harden|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Harden']]. He could give me a night, right?<br><br><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Alpha">>Win, lose, or draw, whoever<<else>>Whoever<</if>> you pick, they better enhance the night one way or another, right?<br><br> Or, I considered going [[stag|HS002 - PromDateChosen][$PromDate = 'Stag']] and just see how the evening took me. <</nobr>><<silently>><<if $PromDate == "Derek">><<set $PromWin += 3>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Seven">><<set $PromWin -= 2>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Stephen">><<set $PromWin -= 3>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Stag">><<set $PromWin -->> <<elseif $PromDate == "Absame">><<set $PromWin ++>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Miguel">><<set $PromWin += 2>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Chad">><<set $PromWin -->> <<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">><<set $PromWin -= 2>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">><<set $PromWin += 1>><<set $deception ++>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Arvin">><<set $PromWin -= 2>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Harden">><<set $PromWin ++>><</if>><</silently>><div id ="wait"> Arm candy selected, things settled down a bit. People -- mostly guys -- scrambled for last minute dates over the intervening days, and plans were made for after parties. Ava would be throwing hers, clearly, and <<print $FName>> was offering an oasis from a lack of other options. There were townie house parties as well, but to end up at one of them after Prom was incredibly sad -- and dangerous. And in the lead up to the big night: at school, girls eyed each other from their corners; at night, cozied up to their temporary (or not) beauxes. The tension in the air was akin to cats in heat. But all I could do was <<link "wait">><<replace "#wait">><<timed 3s>><<set $Ava = random(1,10)>> The big night! I spent hours fussing with my dress and makeup to get my look just right. <<if $PromDate == "Stag">><<print $FName>> and her guy knocked at the front door to 'pick me up' -- we joked that they were my date. <<if $wealth lte 3>><<print $FName>>'s dad rolled up in his black taxi, polished and waxed for the big occasion. I squealed in excitement, "It's time to go!" Bouncing towards the door, I stopped short, "One last pic. Smile!" I lifted my phone aloft for the right angle and snapped, posting it as we climbed into the car. <<if $Mom == 1>>Hm. <<print $MName>> was in the background. It wasn't a good look, not because she wasn't beautiful, but she was clearly in the midst of ducking out of frame, unsuccessfully. Well, Mom, say hi to the internet.<</if>> <<else>>I definitely splurged on the stretch. It rolled up in front of the house and I squealed, "It's time to go!" Bouncing towards the door, I stopped short, "One last pic. Smile!" I lifted my phone aloft for the right angle and snapped, posting it as we climbed into the car. <<if $Mom == 1>>Hm. <<print $MName>> was in the background. It wasn't a good look, not because she wasn't beautiful, but she was clearly in the midst of ducking out of frame, unsuccessfully. Well, Mom, say hi to the internet.<</if>> We sped off to arrive in style, my date and crew in tow, we stumbled out of the limo doors a giggling mess.<</if>> <<else>><<if $PromDate !== "Friend" || $PromDate !== "Her Man">><<print $PromDate>><<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">><<print $Friend1>><<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">>Joe<</if>> knocked politely at the front door and there was the requisite awkward exchange between him and <<print $DName>>.<</if>> <<if $wealth lte 3>><<print $FName>>'s dad rolled up in his black taxi, polished and waxed for the big occasion. I squealed in excitement, "It's time to go!" I dragged <<if $PromDate !== "Friend" || $PromDate !== "Her Man">><<print $PromDate>><<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">><<print $Friend1>><<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">>Joe<</if>>> towards the door and then stopped short, "One last pic. Smile!" I lifted my phone aloft for the right angle and snapped, posting it as we climbed into the car. <<if $Mom == 1>>Hm. <<print $MName>> was in the background. It wasn't a good look, not because she wasn't beautiful, but she was clearly in the midst of ducking out of frame, unsuccessfully. Well, Mom, say hi to the internet.<</if>> <<else>>I definitely splurged on the stretch. It rolled up in front of the house and I squealed, "It's time to go!" I dragged <<if $PromDate !== "Friend" || $PromDate !== "Her Man">><<print $PromDate>><<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">><<print $Friend1>><<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">>Joe<</if>> towards the door and then stopped short, "One last pic. Smile!" I lifted my phone aloft for the right angle and snapped, posting it as we climbed into the stretch. <<if $Mom == 1>>Hm. <<print $MName>> was in the background. It wasn't a good look, not because she wasn't beautiful, but she was clearly in the midst of ducking out of frame, unsuccessfully. Well, Mom, say hi to the internet.<</if>> We sped off to arrive in style, my date and crew in tow, we stumbled out of the limo doors a giggling mess.<</if>> Inside I was a nervous wreck, butterflies dancing in the pit of my stomach, though I tried my best to hide it. The votes had been placed before, but my eyes couldn't leave the brown box up on the stage by the DJ. <<if visited("HS002 - PromCommit")>>It contained my future.<<else>>It contained someone's future, and technically...I still //could// win, unlikely as it was.<</if>> Soon enough, it was time for the big reveal. The reticent dancing dissipating into a murmur of anticipation. Principal Mark, one of the usual chaperones was enjoying the control. The DJ queued up a drum roll to heighten the knife cutting tension...With deliberate pace and annoying pauses: "This year's Prom Queen [[is|HS002 - PromResult]]..."<</timed>> <</replace>><</link>>...</div><<if $PromWin gte $Ava>><<set $Memories.push("PromQueen")>> I did it! I won! I put my hands to my face in disbelief, blinking back the tears. I didn't even notice the tiara being placed on my head. <<if $Clique !== "Alpha">> What? I know. I didn't even realize I was competing. It was a huge boost to my self-esteem.<<set $Suggestible -->><<set $Confident ++>><</if>> At the microphone, I gave a speech about the unshakeable bonds of friendship. I remember, in the shadows at the back of the auditorium, Ava stood, her arms crossed across her chest, glaring with pure hatred. Moments later, she stormed out unceremoniously, her date trailing behind. Descending the stage I was descended upon as people excitedly grabbed, hugged and laughed with me. Disbelief was the name of the hour. Was this all a giant trick played on Ava? Who cared. Without trying, I had won. All of that pomp and circumstance behind us, we were able to focus on the fun, the music, all capped off with that one final slow dance, "<<if $Suggestible gte $Risky && $Suggestible gte $Easy && $Suggestible gte $Confident && $Suggestible gte $Stable && $Suggestible gte $Excitable && $Suggestible gte $Risky>>Come Away with Me," by Norah Jones<<elseif $Easy gte $Suggestible && $Easy gte $Risky && $Easy gte $Confident && $Easy gte $Stable && $Easy gte $Excitable>>Freak," by Doja Cat<<elseif $Risky gte $Easy && $Risky gte $Confident && $Risky gte $Stable && $Risky gte $Excitable>>Crash," by Dave Matthews Band<<elseif $Confident gte $Risky && $Confident gte $Stable && $Confident gte $Excitable>>I Only Have Eyes for You," by The Flamingos<<elseif $Stable gte $Confident && $Stable gte $Excitable>>At Last," by Etta James <<elseif $Excitable gte $Stable>>Fade Into You," by Mazzy Star<</if>>, wound the 'evening' to a close. ...and then we got to what we all considered the real [[Prom|HS003 - HSSex]]. <<else>> Spotlights shined brightly on their target. It was Ava. Ava had won. She was practically at the podium before they finished the single syllable of her name. Figures she won. Probably rigged in her favor. Typical. <<if $Clique == "Alpha">>Honestly, I couldn't believe it. I am and certainly //was// way hotter than her -- were the masses blind? <<if $Suggestible gt 0>>Maybe I wasn't as good looking or popular as I thought.<<set $Suggestible ++>><<set $Confident -->><</if>><</if>> The moment was too much. The waterworks were coming, no matter how I tried to blink them back. My hands to my face, I fled the room, <<if $PromDate !== "Stag">><<if $PromDate !== "Seven">><<if $PromDate !== "Friend" || $PromDate !== "Her Man">><<print $PromDate>><<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">><<print $Friend1>><<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">>Joe<</if>><<else>>seven guys<</if>> trailing ineffectually behind me.<</if>><<if $spoiled is true>> I screamed. I flailed. The night was __ruined__. My life was ''ruined''! I shut myself in [[my room|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<<else>> All of that pomp and circumstance behind us, we were able to focus on the fun, the dancing...and what we all considered the real [[event|HS003 - HSSex]].<</if>><</if>><<nobr>> <span id = "rep"> First, I'm sure you're just __riveted__ at this point, thinking "<<print $Name>>, you've buried the lede. You got me all hyped up right away with your //origin story// bullshit--" <br><br> Hush. <br><br> It's about time we talk about what all those hormones and these events brought about a different scholastic 'career'. It just would have broken up the narrative arc. I hope you'll forgive me. <br><br> <<if $HSBC gt 5>> I may have gotten a bit of a <<link "reputation">> <<replace "#rep">> <<set $virgin = false>>My first. A very good place to [[start|HS004 - FirstSexSel]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<br> <</if>> I had my <<link "fun">> <<replace "#rep">> <<set $virgin = false>><<set $HSBC = 5>>My first. A very good place to [[start|HS004 - FirstSexSel]]. <</replace>><</link>>, figuring out things. <br><br> <<if $HSBC lt 5>>Call it more of an internship for what was to <<link "come">> <<replace "#rep">> <<set $virgin = false>><<set $HSBC = 1>>My first. A very good place to [[start|HS004 - FirstSexSel]]. <</replace>><</link>>. <br> <</if>> <<if $virgin == true>> Honestly, I was holding on to <<link "my card">> <<replace "#rep">> <<set $HSBC = 0>><<set $Confident -->> <<set $Easy -= 2>><<set $sexcount = true>> <<if visited("HS009 - HomeVign3")>> And you're disappointed. After all that. I //know//. But it wasn't time. I wasn't comfortable [[yet|HS011 - Graduation]]. <<else>> And you're disappointed, I know, but it wasn't time. I wasn't comfortable [[yet|HS008 - PromNight]]. <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>. <</if>> </span> <</nobr>><<nobr>><<set $FirstOptions = { "My first crush, Petey" : "Petey" }>> <<if $parents == "hurt">> <<set $FirstOptions[$DName + ', my Dad'] = $DName>><</if>> <<if $parents == "adopted">> <<set $FirstOptions['Larry, my foster Dad.'] = 'Larry'>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>> <<set $FirstOptions[$FName + "'s Dad, Tyler."] = 'Tyler'>><</if>> <<if $MaleAttention gt 0>> <<set $FirstOptions["Ronnie, " + $DName + "'s friend"] = 'Ronnie'>><</if>> <<if $hsv == "act">><<if $actpath !== 1 && $actpath !== 2>> <<set $FirstOptions['Vance, my Romeo.'] = 'Vance'>><</if>><</if>> <<if $hsv == "gym">> <<set $FirstOptions['Coach Vovk.'] = 'Coach Vovk'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "home">> <<set $FirstOptions['One of our gardeners, Carlos.'] = 'Carlos'>><</if>> <<if $Dad == 0>> <<set $FirstOptions['My step-dad, Arvin.'] = 'Arvin'>><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Sports">> <<set $FirstOptions['Coach Rod.'] = 'Rod'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "partier">> <<set $FirstOptions['Some Rando at a party.'] = 'Random Guy'>><</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>> <<set $FirstOptions['Seth, my first ever hook-up.'] = 'Seth'>><</if>> <<if $Sexuality !== 1>><<set $FirstOptions[$FName + ", my best friend"] = $FName>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "sporty">> <<set $FirstOptions['Barkewitcz, Softball Coach.'] = 'Barkewitcz'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "church">> <<set $FirstOptions['Samson, hottie from Youth Group.'] = 'Samson'>><</if>> /* <<if $Clique == "Nerd">> <<set $FirstOptions["Eric, Ethan's older brother and my first DM"] = 'Eric'>><</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "power">> <<set $FirstOptions['Mark, my principal.'] = 'Mark'>><</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>> <<set $FirstOptions[$FName "'s boyfriend, Brian."] = 'Brian'>><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Prude">> <<set $FirstOptions['John Hull, our Minister.'] = 'Hull'>><</if>> <<if $Mom == 0>> <<set $FirstOptions['Tom, my uncle.'] = 'Uncle Tom'>><</if>> <<if $Memories.includes("Cheerleader"]>> <<set $FirstOptions['Warren, Varsity QB.'] = 'Warren'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "gang">> <<set $FirstOptions['Amari, gang leader.'] = 'Amari'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "vandal">> <<set $FirstOptions['Raymond, he had his truck.'] = 'Raymond'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "beach">> <<set $FirstOptions['Ian, another lifeguard.'] = 'Ian'>><</if>> <<if $freetime == "club">> <<set $FirstOptions['DJ Eros, he played at our favorite clubs.'] = 'DJ Eros'>><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Popular">> <<set $FirstOptions['Derek, Big Man on Campus.'] = 'Derek'>><</if>> <<if $Clique == "Rebel">><<if $Lable == true>> <<set $FirstOptions['Clay, from my music label.'] = 'Clay'>><</if>><</if>> /*<<if $Sexuality !== 1>> <<set $FirstOptions['Ava, my nemesis.'] = 'Ava'>><</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>> <<set $FirstOptions['Marco, Construction Worker at school.'] = 'Marco'>><</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>> <<set $FirstOptions['Wes, Popular Upper Classman.'] = 'Wes'>><</if>> */ It was... <div id = "choices"> <<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _first range Object.keys($FirstOptions)>> <<capture _first>> <<button _first "HS005 - FirstSex">><<run $VCard = $FirstOptions[_first]>><</button>> <</capture>> <</for>> </div> <</nobr>><<set _sex1 = []>><<set _sex2 = []>><<set _sex3 = []>><<run $Bodies.push($VCard)>> It was <<print $VCard>>.<br><br> My first was my foray into dating and understanding the crazy emotions that came with it -- the upheaval and misunderstandings. <<if $VCard == "Random Guy">>And that first time was massively disruptive and misunderstood. But then it was out of the way and I could move on to the next, better -- and real -- relationship.<<else>>We were on again, off again, but <<print $VCard>> was my constant of my early on. In love, in life. As hard as it was for us, they were present and there for me when I needed them. And when they needed me.<</if>> <<nobr>><div id = "firsttime"> /*<<if $VCard == "Ava">> <</if>> <<if $VCard == "Eric">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "game">><<set _sex3 = "fine">><</if>> */ <<if $VCard == $FName>> We spent //so// much time together. We had been friends for so long we'd already done the 'show me yours' years ago. And that bug that it put in my brain turned out to also be in hers. And one night, curled up watching a movie on Netflix, we chilled -- made sleepovers very, ''very'' interesting. <br><br> Laying there, comfortable, just in shorts and t-shirts with only a little cotton between us, our defenses were down. Spooning each other wasn't anything new. She'd whisper in my ear commenting on the movie. I'd smack her thigh and laugh. This time, her teeth nipped at my earlobe in response. My hand squeezed her thigh back. <br><br> And then her teeth tugged and I groaned, the trigger in my brain pulled. She giggled in my ear as her tongue joined the battle. <br><br> I was turning without thinking, our legs repositioning, intertwining as we began to make out. We'd made out before, but it was a learning experience, or for fun, or because we were drunk. This was completely different. And it was hot. It was taking all of the other times and putting it all together. <br><br> We knew each other quite well. Our bodies, our minds. It had happened in little moments throughout the day to day over the weeks, months, //years//. <br><br> She was clutching herself to me, pulling me like she was feeding a craving. My hands were on her ass, smaller than mine but cute and pert. I gave it a tug, pulling her hips against mine and we began to grind. <br><br> I could feel her heat. I'm sure she could feel my wetness. Pressure against our smooth thighs, back and forth, side to side, slow circles. We were grunting and panting into each other's mouths, hands tight on the other's body to ensure that we didn't move. <br><br> We didn't. Until we came. Nearly together, first it was her, fingernails digging into my shirt as she whimpered cutely: pouty and pained eyes as her body shook. <br><br> Maybe it was the look that got me there, but then I was joining her and blackness and then bright light was all I saw. Then I realized she was giggling softly and covering my mouth, "<<print $Name>>. Fuck. Yer gunna wake them." <br><br> "Should we...?" She nodded, playfully pushing me right off the couch. I thudded to the ground and we left the TV on as we bounced upstairs, bodies ruddy and throbbing in heat as oxytocin coursed through us. <br><br> I was certainly thinking about continuing and her peeling a T-shirt off in the hallway by her bedroom clued me in that her thoughts were similar. <br><br> She was top-heavy, for sure and I always admired her tits. I grabbed her crossing the lintel as I began sucking hungrily at her nipples. She cooed and nudged the door shut while she walked backwards, pulling me with her towards the bed. Her hands were dropping my shorts. <br><br> I climbed ontop of her excitedly. I continued to work on her rigid, ready nipples, her hand snaking between my legs to begin ministrating. I gasped, breaking contact and pushing her down, my other hand grasping her wrist, "I'm //sen//-sative..." <br><br> She grinned devilishly and grabbed my hips. I felt the wetness on one cheek as her fingers gripped me, we were reorienting and then her head was between my legs. Shuddering, sensative but giving in to the pleasure, I dropped mine as well to return the favor. <br><br> Tasting her was incredibly personal, like I was experiencing a part of myself. <br><br> Her laughing against my mound was a crazy experience, "Yer shaking." <br><br> "I know." It was muffled, literally, but I'm sure she knew what I meant. And then we both got to work, her hands gripping my hips to keep me steady. And soon enough I had to hold hers as she bucked against my nose and jaw. I hoped I wasn't going to have black eyes from the first jerk of orgasmic release. <br><br> Not letting up, my fingers pushed into her soft insides, thrusting slowly as I curled them and licked playfully at her clit. She squealed, grabbing at me as she continued to cum. I took her gripping at my fingers as a compliment. It ruined my rhythm, but it was enough for her, apparently. <br><br> We alternated like that for probably an hour, focusing on each other in a 69, face to face with our mature 'mine' and 'yours'. And then we collapsed until the morning. <br><br> "So...did that...count?" Came the groggy, exhausted question as the morning light flickered over our naked bodies, strewn across the crumpled, wet sheets. <br><br> It was my first thought too: lack of dick. Lack of 'real' penetration. How much different was that from what we'd done before? "Yeah. //Definitely//." <br><br> <</if>> <<if $VCard == "Coach Vovk">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "careful">><<set _sex3 = "good">> It was one day after the official practice had wound down. I had taken a tumble and he had sent the other girls home while he cared for me in the trainer's office. The gym was essentially empty and the spark that had always been between us -- mutual respect, the physicality of what we were doing, the intensity, that his hands were always on me without being overtly sexual -- it all had been building until that moment on the massage table.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Vance">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> There's something about doing a show with someone. You've heard showmance maybe? When you're opposite someone, playing love, playing attraction, it's easier to fool others when you've fooled yourself. And daily, we were pining after each other, cannoodling for hours on end, kissing -- we had gone for the real thing early in rehearsal -- and so, naturally, we took an excuse to 'run lines' and practice on off-hours, alone, in his room.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Rod">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "careful">><<set _sex3 = "fine">> We spent a ton of time together, afternoons, weekends, alone and sweaty. The congratulatory, customary butt-smack from him was different. The pain and jiggle made between my legs react in a way that my body understood before my brain did. And wearing spandex didn't leave much separation from his hand and my bare skin. So, we had spent the afternoon with his hands guiding my stance for a pass, my swing for a serve. We were close, we were alone. The gym floor wasn't comfortable, but it was there. c<</if>> /*<<if $VCard == "Hull">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "fine">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Uncle Tom">><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "fine">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Mark">><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "careful">><<set _sex3 = "fine">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Brian">><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "drunk">> I'm not proud about it. But it was hot. We had gotten a //little// drunk and made our way to my place...and my room.<</if>>*/ <<if $VCard == $DName>><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> <<print $MName>> wasn't home. When we were alone, the dynamic between <<print $VCard>> and I was...different. He treated me with the same energy and looks that I experienced from normal guys. Other guys. And he knew me in ways that no one else could -- there was a natural intimacy that he leaned into. He encouraged me to be 'comfortable' around him and not worry about what I was wearing. We'd watch things together. We'd be close. He progressively became more adventurous with his hands and his proximity. He'd use confidence and circumstance to push the envelope. Things that started 'off' became 'normal' and expected. And then, it happened.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Larry">><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "careful">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> He was one of the last guys that earned the title "dad" as I bounced around before ending up with <<print $DName>> and <<print $MName>>. When we were alone, the dynamic between Larry and I was...different. He treated me with the same energy and looks that I experienced from normal guys. Other guys. And he knew me in ways that no one else could -- there was a natural intimacy that he leaned into. He encouraged me to be 'comfortable' around him and not worry about what I was wearing. We'd watch things together. We'd be close. He progressively became more adventurous with his hands and his proximity. He'd use confidence and circumstance to push the envelope. Things that started 'off' became 'normal' and expected. And then, it happened.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Tyler">> <<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "good">> When I wasn't with The Boys, I was with <<print $FName>>. At her house, I had a freedom that I didn't at my own, -- whatever rules she was expected to adhere to were relaxed for me, and the rules //I// was supposed to adhere to? I got to do what I fucking wanted. I spent a ton of time around the house, in myriad states, various states of...dress, after parties, before parties. So, my proxmimity, Tyler and I spent time together too. He got to know me in a way that other parents didn't. And I saw the way he looked at me. And it ignited something in me from the first moment. I didn't know why -- maybe it was because it was //her// Dad. It would upset her if she knew. It elevated the stakes and clearly excited us both. And then, one afternoon, I had dropped by and she hadn't been there.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Arvin">><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "careful">><<set _sex3 = "good">> I felt comfortable around him and with him being around all the time, it's who I brought my questions to and his thoughts about me were quite apparent. While he was 'dad' -- he wasn't. There was a familial closeness and knowledge, but there was also a non-familial freedom. So when <<print $MName>> wasn't around, there were lowered barriers, flirting, a bit of teasing. The wrongness was exciting. I don't know if either of us expected it to be consummated, but it certainly was.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Carlos">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "good">> The gooning sessions aligned with the yard work on a monthly cycle, and after Carlos had gotten such a show, there was a sexual tension between us when I would show up. When he and his team would show up. When I would goon, I'd occasionally think about him, that first accident, and other 'scenarios'. And then, one day, I was in the midst of a sesh -- he certainly knew my schedule by that point -- and I heard a knock at the door. Throwing on something quickly and immensely frustrated, I answered. He wanted a glass of water. We quenched...something.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Ronnie">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> There's an ease when you're at home which is tough to rival. Your guard is down, you're trying to just be you and live your life. So, sometimes when informal get-togethers happen, family friends caught me unawares. Ronnie was one of <<print $DName>>'s guys that was always over for a beer. To watch the game. When his inhibition was down he certainly watched me as well. He had some 'accidental' encounters to check in with me, build a kind of frienship and 'just us' sense. I didn't mind the attention. And that he was hiding it from <<print $DName>> some kind of rebellious bonus. So one night, when I had joined them for a late night movie -- their team had lost -- we were left alone and...things happened that had been building between us for months. A tension needed to be released, a realization of all those imagined eventualities and possibilities...<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Seth">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "careful">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> When you experiment for the first time, before you've understood what's happening and what's going to happen, you're trying to grapple with the explosive excitement and pleasure. Rationally. As best you can. And, in my case...I didn't grapple too well. Making out went quickly to heavy petting and once we were getting at each other's parts, they wanted to come together. And so did we. So we did. A lot of firsts all at once.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Random Guy">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "drunk">> I...don't know his name. Don't really remember much, if anything about him. I have pieced together what I can from my first time with him because...it was my first time. But all I'm certain of is that it happened, I've gotten over 'regret' and tried to ignore any of that bullshit about 'first time' expectations or other social myths. It was sex. We sexed.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Barkewitcz">><<set _sex1 = "rules">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> I think he had been made coach of the softball team because of 'incidents' with other teams. I think he was floored to find out that I actually liked dudes. He loved that I didn't care about the rumors, and that the other girls were jealous of //him//. Sure, it was in the dugout after practice, sweaty and tired. But it was secluded and safe.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Samson">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "good">> Youth group wasn't a weird place to find a boyfriend. It was kinda part of the point -- bringing the like-minded, Christ-like together. He didn't have long hair, which made me smile -- either meant he was powerless or it was a bad name. But, God, was he //hot//. He acted like he didn't know it, which made it cuter and once it was all done, I think that was learned behavior that worked for him. It worked on me. And we were ''not'' Christ-like.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Petey">><<set _sex1 = "good">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "quick">> I don't remember how we went from him being a crush of mine and to actual dating, but when he asked me out, I was floored. It felt monumental, an impossibility, a dream. Kinda like our first night.<</if>> /*<<if $VCard == "DJ Eros">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "drunk">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Ian">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "game">><<set _sex3 = "good">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Raymond">><<set _sex1 = "sudden">><<set _sex2 = "game">><<set _sex3 = "drunk">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Clay">><<set _sex1 = "pushy">><<set _sex2 = "game">><<set _sex3 = "fine">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Amari">><<set _sex1 = "pushy">><<set _sex2 = "game">><<set _sex3 = "good">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Warren">><<set _sex1 = "pushy">><<set _sex2 = "game">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> He led our Varsity squad on the field and, sure I wasn't his first, and he had a bit of a rep, but it was a good first time.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Derek">><<set _sex1 = "pushy">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "drunk">><</if>> <<if $VCard == "Wes">><<set _sex1 = "pushy">><<set _sex2 = "unprep">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> I definitely wasn't his first. I knew that for a fact. I could probably tell you exactly who he was //their// first, though. He had a magnetism to him. There was this aura and status to him at school, and his confidence worked. Time and again. On others. On me. There was almost like a rhythm or standard operating procedure from the way he behaved. He had a method and it worked, not just for notches, but pathfinding women.<</if>> <<if $VCard == "Marco">><<set _sex1 = "pushy">><<set _sex2 = "selfish">><<set _sex3 = "bad">> Spending time after hours at school meant there were fewer people around, and those that were around weren't actually school staff. It was during those off-hours that a sweaty, extremely confident construction worker made his move. The first day, I really enjoyed the attention and a break from the boredom of waiting around essentially alone with my phone. The next day, his questions got more personal and he clearly was taking a break to spend it with me. Then, //that// day, he wanted to show me what they were working on. It was unfinished, uncomfortable, but for his purposes -- unoccupied.<</if>> */ <<if _sex1 == "pushy">> <</if>> <<if _sex1 == "sudden">> Fuck. I was //so// horny. My shirt was off, <<print $VCard>> was sucking firmly at my erect nipples, and I was gasping out, clutching his head against me as the pleasure shot through me. <br><br> My hand had disappeared into his pants, the zipper scraping and tugging at my wrist while I tugged carefully at his cock, swollen within. He switched nipples, I shuddered. I felt his hands working the remaining clothing off from my lower half and my body responded, my mind elsewhere. <br><br> Hips lifting and working, our combined efforts meant I was naked in seconds, his hand diving right between my legs. His fingertips <<if $Pubes !== "bald">>glid over my smooth mound <<else>>caught slightly at my hair as they searched lower <</if>>to the honey-soaked target below, beginning to flick at my clit. <br><br> "<<shake 3s>>Fuck<</shake>>." The pitch of my voice elevated an octave as my core clenched and my hands pulled him against me. He felt my need and he pushed me back. Everything inside me was calling out for pleasure and release. <br><br> I felt his pants drop away from his hips, thankful to not experience the roughness of the zipper any longer. I cooed and gasped, feeling not just his fingers toying with my button, but my hand bumping against my sex -- getting crowded -- as the tip, slick with precum, began to probe lower while I stroked. <br><br> The sensation of his near entry, the heat and firmness of his erection, the feeling of him ontop of me...shit, was I ready for this? Did he even know he was about to take my -- a sharp pang as the tip dug in, letting my hand be the guide and steady for him as he applied pressure, starting to sink in. <br><br> Instinctively, I jerked, releasing his cock and pushing up on his stomach. He leaned up, breaking contact with both my clit and my <<print $Tits>> breasts. He was frowning, my body was upset, both were needy children denied what felt good. "What." The tone was firm. Not a question. <br><br> "S-sorry...my first time..." It wasn't how I imagined it, but it certainly felt really necessary right now. <br><br> "Really?" I nodded, chewing at my lower lip.<br><br> <</if>> <<if _sex1 == "good">> We'd been together a while. <<print $VCard>> had been supremely patient, considerate that I wasn't ready yet and had to build up to this moment. <br><br> But I relented, it was time. And hearing that, we were off to the races, clambering awkwardly against each other as we tried to manage a new configuration and intention for our bodies. <br><br> We giggled and it was sweet, I could see the kindness in his eyes, almost an "Are you sure?" question lingering while we kissed and positioned ourselves. <br><br> I worked on his belt as an answer and immediately I felt his lips on my neck, the excitement clear in his nipping. The belt swung open and his hips shifted as I tugged, negotiating his pants down while I felt his fingers fumbling at my clothes -- too fast ironically making him go slower. <br><br> Soon, his cock was out, pulsing in anticipation and my pussy was freed. He dove straight in. My hands clutched at the seats of the car, knees kicking up and out as I was shocked by the sudden clit suckling. <br><br> My hands found his head, caressing and tugging slightly while I gasped and melted before him. It wasn't my first time being eaten out, but knowing it wasn't the act in and of itself, it shook me to my core. <br><br> <<if $Pubes == "bush">>I felt his hot breath puffing into my hair, occasionally feeling him shift to remove a stray or reposition for a better angle, soon it was mostly matted from the moistness of his breathing and my own natural juice.<<elseif $Pubes !== "bald">>I felt his breath puffing into my hair that slowly matted under the assault of his moist breaths, the bridge of his nose against my pubic bone, pressing against it and working side to side as he munched.<<else>>I felt his breath puffing hotly against my bare skin, bridge of his nose working against the smooth skin of my mound, moistness from his breathing coupled with my own natural juice.<</if>> <br><br> I squealed, climaxing as he his fingers pressed up into me and his tongue flicked against my nub. I clutched at his head, thighs on either side pinning him against my sex while it thrummed through me. <br><br> As I settled back, I laughed, seeing him lift up with a pussy-eating grin and wiping his mouth clean on his sleeve.<br><br><</if>> <<if _sex1 == "rules">> "We shouldn't be doing this..." <<print $VCard>> chuckled as our lips parted for the hundredth time. The thought of //him// and ''me'' being together. Of us being found out. Especially...during the act. <br><br> Of losing my virginity? Oh god. That was what was about to happen. It hadn't really crossed my mind until this moment. Somewhere deep inside me, I had known, but I had just wanted the contact, the intimacy -- ''intense'' like I had never experienced -- with __him__. <br><br> <<shake 2s>>Fuck.<</shake>> That did something inside of me. The reasons and whys and hows of everything up to this moment evaporated in the wake of my desire. To do the thing. The //wrong// thing. <br><br> I nodded and shrugged, "It's...your first time...right?" Another nod and shrug. "And you're sure?" A final nod, shrug, tugging him into my face and diving deeply into the bliss that was his mouth. <br><br> I worked on his belt as an answer and immediately I felt his lips on my neck, the excitement clear in his nipping. The belt swung open and his hips shifted as I tugged, negotiating his pants down while I felt his fingers fumbling at my clothes -- too fast ironically making him go slower. <br><br> Soon, his cock was out, pulsing in anticipation and my pussy was freed. His eyes gazed at<<if $Pubes == "bald">>the smooth skin<<else>>the hair<</if>> above my glistening gash. I could tell he was considering, eyes darting up to check in with me, "We should probably be quick...so..." <br><br> "Yeah, that'd be bad." He nodded in full agreement to just get to the dick in pussy part.<br><br> <</if>> <<if _sex2 == "selfish">><<set _condom = false>> My eyes dropped to his cock, visibly aching. <br><br> Without warning, my head was being pulled to it. I mmmphed in surprise, the words stopped by the flesh in between my lips. My <<print $Eyes>> eyes looking at him in surprise, eyebrows raised, but he wasn't paying attention except to the new sensation. He was grunting and pulling firmly at the back of my head. <br><br> My hands pressed at his thighs but he pressed harder. Continuing to suck, I bobbed and applied pressure with my tongue and suction with my mouth, feeling the heartbeat against my cheeks and roof of my mouth as he fucked my mouth. So, I guess I wasn't going to be losing my virginity. <br><br> And then my head was being pulled back by my hair while he was climbing ontop of me, his free hand pushing my thighs out of his way as he lined himself up, lubricated with my spit and incredibly ready to go now. The arousal was burning brightly in his eyes. <br><br> <<if $fertile == 1>>"C-condom." I gasped out, finally able to speak and taking what moment I had to get some kind of protection before -- yep, I was losing my virginity because -- "Ow!" there it went. <br><br> His hips driving down firmly as he shook his head, "Too late." With a deep grunt. The sharp jabbing pain of being not only entered quickly but for the first time was enough to silence my response.<<else>> "C-careful--" I gasped out, finally able to speak and taking what moment I had to get some consideration before -- yep, I was losing my virginity because -- "Ow!" there it went. <br><br> His hips driving down firmly as he shook his head, "Too late." With a deep grunt. The sharp jabbing pain of being not only entered quickly but for the first time was enough to silence my response.<br><br><</if>><</if>> <<if _sex2 == "careful">><<set _condom = true>> My eyes dropped to his cock, visibly aching. <br><br> <<if $fertile == 0>>I motioned for him to mount me and he shook his head, "One sec," digging in his crumpled pants pocket. <br><br> I laughed and waved him on again, "<<print $VCard>>, it's fiiine...I'm on <<print $BC>>." <br><br> There was a momentary consideration, I could see it as he looked between my legs as he unwrapped the condom anyway and began to roll it down his rigid meat. <br><br> "Safer." <br><br> "You don't trust me?" <br><br> "That's not..." he sighed, a pained look on his face. <br><br> I didn't want to kill the mood, reaching down to grasp his cock and stroke it slightly, guiding it forward, "Sorry." <br><br> "Sokay. Just want you to trust me too." <br><br> "I...d-do." It didn't come out as believable as I wanted as he entered me. <<else>> "Sorry...you, uh, got a..." <br><br> He nodded vigorously, "One sec," digging in his crumpled pants pocket. <br><br> "Cool, thanks...I'm just not on..." <br><br> I could see his desire to fuck me anyway as he looked between my legs and unwrapped the condom, "Shh...I know." He began to roll it down his rigid meat. <br><br> "You know I trust you, right?" <br><br> "Shh...." he put a finger against my mouth, leaning ontop of me. <br><br> I didn't want to kill the mood, reaching down to grasp his cock and stroke it slightly, guiding it forward, "Sorry." <br><br> "Shhh..." he repeated, but it was harder to be quiet right then as the tip met me and stuck inside, entering me.<br><br><</if>><</if>> <<if _sex2 == "unprep">><<set _condom = false>> My eyes dropped to his cock, visibily aching. <br><br> <<if $fertile == 0>>I motioned for him to mount me and he nodded, "Cool. Yeah, I really wasn't...prepared for this. So, you're good?" He motioned at his bare meat, slowly moving into position. <br><br> I laughed and waved him on again, "<<print $VCard>>, it's fiiine...I'm on <<print $BC>>." <br><br> "Awesome." And then he was pushing the unprotected head up and down my slit, giving a little nudge at my entrance, making me gasp. <br><br> He smiled. I bit my lower lip, "Tease." <br><br> "First time should be fun." It was a kind smile, poking slightly in and drawing back, enjoying working me up. <br><br> "It will be. Now. //Get//. ''In''. Me." I reached back and gave a pull at his ass, arching my back as the entry happened. Oh, he was in. <<else>> "Sorry...you, uh, got a..." <br><br> He nodded vigorously, "One sec," digging in his crumpled pants pocket. <br><br> "Cool, thanks...I'm just not on..." <br><br> I could see his desire to fuck me anyway as he looked between my legs, face shifting as he and I both realized the lack of protection at the same time, "Uh, wasn't really...expecting this, ya know?" a smile seeking understanding. <br><br> "Yeah, makes sense." An awkward giggle. <br><br> "You...got any?" His cock was beginning to wane, I shook my head, but reached down to stroke, to stoke the fire. I didn't want to kill the mood, reaching down to grasp his cock and stroke it slightly, guiding it forward, "Sorry." <br><br> "Ngh..." he grunted at the touch. "Y-you really should if you're not...on..." <br><br> "Yeah, I wasn't expecting it either." <br><br> He chuckled, leaning in, letting my stroking push his cockhead up and down my waiting slit. "So, call it even?" <br><br> "Just...?" <br><br> He nodded, applying some pressure and I felt myself being penetrated, "I'll pull out." <br><br> Fuck. This felt good. Hurt. But...//good//. "Yeah." I nodded.<br><br><</if>><</if>> <<if _sex3 == "fine">><</if>> <<if _sex3 == "drunk">><</if>> <<if _sex3 == "good">> He shuddered and I giggled, loving that I could see and feel his reaction. My hands slid down his back as he slid into me. <br><br> I shifted myself underneath him, thighs wider and feet higher as his crotch met mine. I felt the warm weight of his sack nestle and then press tightly against my ass as he crammed his cockhead firmly up inside me against my cervix. I gasped at my innards being pushed like that. <br><br> "You okay?" he froze, mid-way through lifting over me. <br><br> "Y-yeah, just..." <br><br> He nodded quickly, "Don't worry, I'll be gentle. Let me know, okay?" <br><br> "I will. Just...keep going." And smacked him lightly on his back, hands sliding down to his ass. He immediately began to draw back and push into me harder, making my back arch and my hands clenched at his clenching cheeks. <br><br> His eyes gazed not at my body, but my face, searching for hints while the slow draw and insertion continued. <br><br> I smiled and laughed, he smiled and laughed. We were both becoming flushed, sweat was forming. <br><br> It had started with pain, but that had been expected. It was a crazy, new sensation being filled by another person, hard, hot -- literally able to feel their heartbeat through a part of their body that was inside of me. <br><br> And it was feeling better. Thrust by thrust, my pussy stopped yelling at me so much. I'd definitely be sore, but I saw why people did it again and again. <br><br> The pain was shifting into pleasure. And I think he could see that, "You going to...?" <br><br> I shook my head, "It's okay." <br><br> He shook his head back at me, sweat flicked from his forehead and hair down at me, making me giggle. <br><br> Leaning his weight on one arm, he reached between my legs. He began to work his fingers in time with his thrusting. The sensation was surprising and arresting. I froze, gawking up at him as the sensations built within me. So much better than doing it myself, or even having someone else do it...//while// I was being driven into? <<shake 2s>>Christ.<</shake>> <br><br> Oh. "<<shake 10s>>CHRIST!<</shake>>" I have no idea what happened for what felt like an eternity, but when I came down, he was done too. <br><br> He grunted and leaned forward on his hands, his face focused and moments later his hips drove roughly against my crotch in a final release. <br><br> <<if _condom == false>><<if $fertile == 1>> My first time getting fucked was also my first getting filled and my mind raced, practically imagining the hundreds of millions of swimmers inside me as I ran through my options and what I was going to do now. <</if>><br><br> He was smiling, arms curling under my shoulders and pulling me up into a deep kiss while flexing his hips. It sent shocks through my core as the pressure and friction brushed my clitoris and pushed around inside me as well. <br><br> The stickiness began between us as he began to soften. <<else>> <br><br> He was smiling, arms curling under my shoulders and pulling me up into a deep kiss while flexing his hips. It sent shocks through my core as the pressure and friction brushed my clitoris and pushed around inside me as well. <</if>> <<if _sex2 == "unprep">>"Fuck. S-sorry." He was grunting as he felt my pussy pulling at his sensative meat as he withdrew. I nodded, not sure of what else to say or do. "It just felt too good. I tried." I nodded, still frozen. "You okay? It'll be fine, I'm sure." Flushed, he smiled at me. I nodded and pulled him back down, too late now anyway, I figured. <</if>> We kissed and giggled, cuddling for a bit before putting our clothes back on. So that was sex. //Incredible//. I couldn't wait to tell my friends.<br><br> <</if>> <<if _sex3 == "bad">> He shuddered and I giggled, loving that I could see and feel his reaction. My hands slid down his back as he slid into me. <br><br> I shifted myself underneath him, thighs wider and feet higher as his crotch met mine. I felt the warm weight of his sack nestle and then press tightly against my ass as he crammed his cockhead firmly up inside me against my cervix. I gasped at my innards being pushed like that. <br><br> He took it as a sign of pleasure, "Like that?" grinning big as he lifted over me and immediately began to ram firmly between my legs. No lead-up, no previews, fucking. I grit my teeth and body tensed, my hands quickly moving to press up at his stomach for relief. <br><br> Ignoring the hints, or, based on his expression, just not even looking for them -- he hammered away, grunting out, "Like that?" <br><br> He leaned forward on over me, his face focused but eyes taking in my body as it bounced and reacted to his thrusting. <br><br> It had hurt when he had entered me. It was a strange new sensation when he fully inserted. And it was not what I expected as he continued going. <br><br> I had heard that the first time hurt. I wondered if I was bleeding. Why wasn't he noticing my reactions? I didn't want to scare him though. <br><br> My pussy yelled at me. His reactions told me he was feeling the ''exact'' opposite. He was grinning big, grunting deeply and focusing harder, "Gonna cum?" <br><br> Shit. He was trying to make me cum and I definitely was...not...going to. I quickly nodded, biting my lower lip and putting on the best show I could. My fingernails dug into his stomach, more out of the discomfort than my ecstacy. I let my squeals from his invasion out easier, hoping they'd be misconstrued. <br><br> They were. <br><br> <<if _condom == false>> I gasped, feeling his cock become so rigid and begin to twitch inside me, surprised as I felt the heat emptying into me thickly. I bit my lower lip as he dug his cockhead at my cervix while he pumped his load against and into it. <br><br> <<if $fertile == 1>> My first time getting fucked was also my first getting filled and my mind raced, practically imagining the hundreds of millions of swimmers inside me as I ran through my options and what I was going to do once he was finished. <</if>><br><br> And then he was done, smiling and while flexing his hips a few times, "Fuck yeah." while fully emptying and then withdrawing. The stickiness beginning in my crotch as his spent cock popped free from my clutch. <<else>><br><br> I gasped, feeling his cock become so rigid and begin to twitch inside me. Thankful for the heat of his member, the pumping of his penis inside me as it did its job. <br><br> And then he was done, smiling and flexing his hips a few times, "Fuck yeah." while fully emptying and then withdrawing. I gasped and winced slightly as the cock pulled out of me, the condom tugging at my lips as it came free as well, heavy with the load. <</if>> <<if _sex2 == "unprep">>"Fuck. S-sorry." He was grunting as he felt my pussy pulling at his sensative meat as he withdrew. I nodded, not sure of what else to say or do. "It just felt too good. I tried." I nodded, still frozen. "You okay? It'll be fine, I'm sure." Flushed, he smiled at me. I nodded and pulled him back down, too late now anyway, I figured. <</if>> He dismounted with a satisfied sigh, checking out the gape between my legs as he put his clothes back on. So that was sex. Huh. I hoped it got better.<br><br> <</if>> <<if _sex3 == "quick">> He shuddered and I giggled, loving that I could see and feel his reaction. My hands slid down his back as he slid into me. <br><br> I shifted myself underneath him, thighs wider and feet higher as his crotch met mine. I felt the warm weight of his sack nestle and then press tightly against my ass as he crammed his cockhead firmly up inside me against my cervix. I gasped at my innards being pushed like that. <br><br> He took it as a sign of pleasure, grinning big as he lifted over me and immediately began to draw back and push into me harder, making my back arch and my hands went from his back to his stomach. <br><br> Ignoring the hints the slow draw and insertion ramped up after just two pumps, he began firmly stuffing his cock inside me, encouraged by my vocal and bodily reactions, completely missing the underlying meaning. <br><br> He grunted and leaned forward on his hands, his face focused and moments later his hips drove roughly against my crotch in a final release. <br><br> <<if _condom == false>> I gasped, feeling his cock become so rigid and begin to twitch inside me, surprised as I felt the heat emptying into me thickly. I bit my lower lip as he dug his cockhead at my cervix while he pumped his load against and into it. <br><br> <<if $fertile == 1>> My first time getting fucked was also my first getting filled and my mind raced, practically imagining the hundreds of millions of swimmers inside me as I ran through my options and what I was going to do once he was finished. <</if>><br><br> And then he was done, smiling and giving me a deep kiss while flexing his hips against me before withdrawing. The stickiness beginning in my crotch as his spent cock popped free from my clutch. <<else>><br><br> I gasped, feeling his cock become so rigid and begin to twitch inside me. Entranced, I felt the heat of his member, the pumping of his penis inside me as it did its job. <br><br> And then he was done, smiling and giving me a deep kiss while flexing his hips against me before withdrawing. I gasped and winced slightly as the cock pulled out of me, the condom tugging at my lips as it came free as well, heavy with the load. <</if>> <<if _sex2 == "unprep">>"Fuck. S-sorry." He was grunting as he felt my pussy pulling at his sensative meat as he withdrew. I nodded, not sure of what else to say or do. "It just felt too good. I tried." I nodded, still frozen. "You okay? It'll be fine, I'm sure." Flushed, he smiled at me. I nodded and pulled him back down, too late now anyway, I figured. <</if>> We kissed and giggled, cuddling for a bit before putting our clothes back on. So that was sex. Huh. Really was quick like they said and not some porno-length session.<br><br> <</if>></div><</nobr>> And...that was my <<link "first time">><<replace "#firsttime">>"Oh you want the full list? My ''body count''? Cute. [[And unsurprising|HS006 - HSBC]].<</replace>><</link>><<if $HSBC === 1>> I know you don't believe me, but that was it. [[For the time|HS008 - PromNight][$sexcount = true]] being. <<print $VCard>> and I were together, except at Prom...we were on a break. <<else>> While <<print $VCard>> was my first real boyfriend in my mind, it was off again, on again. They weren't the only one I slept with. Fine. Can you hear my eyes rolling in their sockets? <div id = "HSBC">The <<link "grand total">><<replace "#HSBC">>My notches in the bedpost -- everyone always wants the gory details, //sigh// -- was <<print $HSBC>> of them. Ugh. Who? I really have to list them all out for you? [[Fine|HS007 - HSBC2]].<</replace>><</link>>?</div><</if>><<nobr>> <<set _BodiesNum = ($HSBC - 1)>> <<set setup.HSBodies = { "Levi was a sweet, but nerdy guy from Computer Class." : "Levi from Computer class", "Owen, an upper classman." : "Owen, upper classman", "Asher, an under classman." : "Asher, under classman", "Carl, from my class." : "Carl, from HS", "Terry, from our sister school." : "Terry from another HS", }>> <<if $VCard !== "Petey">><<set setup.HSBodies["Petey -- I landed my first crush."] = "Petey, first crush">><</if>> <<if $parents == "hurt">> <<if $VCard !== $DName>><<set setup.HSBodies[$DName + ", my Dad."] = $DName + ", my Dad.">><</if>> /*<<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">>*/ <</if>> <<if $parents == "adopted">> <<if $VCard !== "Larry">><<set setup.HSBodies["One of my fosterers, Larry."] = "Larry, foster Dad">><</if>> /*<<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">>*/ <</if>> <<if $Mom == "family">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Ezra, my sister's ex."] = "Ezra, my sister's ex">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Luca, my sister's ex."] = "Luca, my sister's ex">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jayden, my sister's ex."] = "Jayden, my sister's ex">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Grayson, my brother's friend."] = "Grayson, my brother's friend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Carter, my brother's friend."] = "Carter, my brother's friend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jaxon, my brother's friend."] = "Jaxon, my brother's friend">> <</if>> <<if $wealth gt 3>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Vincent, our driver."] = "Vincent, my driver growing up">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Myles," + $MName + "'s yoga instructor."] = "Myles," + $MName + "'s yoga instructor">> <<set setup.HSBodies["I am not really sure of his name, at least how to pronounce it. We met on holiday in Fiji and I was able to sneak away."] = 'Jone, on Fiji Family Holiday'>> <</if>> <<if $learning gt 2>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Milo, from AP Calc class."] = "Milo, from AP Calc">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Vanni, another National Merit Finalist."] = "Vanni, National Merit Finalist">> <<set setup.HSBodies["A French Exchange Student, Aloïs."] = "Aloïs, French Exchange Student in high school">> <</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Walker, yes -- that Walker from TV."] = "Walker, TV Star">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jasper, hometown Hall of Famer."] = "Jasper, my home town's most notable Hall of Famer">> <<if $VCard !== "Warren">><<set setup.HSBodies['Warren led our Varsity squad on the field and let me to bed off the field.'] = 'Warren, high school Varsity QB'>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Waylon, a guy I met at a bar."] = "Waylon, rando from a bar">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Coop, a guy I met at a bar."] = "Coop, a rando from a bar">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Kai, a guy I met at a bar."] = "Kai, a rando from a bar">> <</if>> <<if $Stable lt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["John, my second boyfriend."] = "John, my second boyfriend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["James, my third boyfriend."] = "James, my third boyfriend">> <<if $VCard !== "Brian">><<set setup.HSBodies[$FName + "'s boyfriend, Brian. I'm not proud about it. But it was hot."] = $FName + "'s boyfriend, Brian">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Easy gt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Eli, a boyfriend's best friend."] = "Eli, a boyfriend's best friend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Ryan, a boyfriend's friend."] = "Ryan, a boyfriend's friend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Cam, a boyfriend's friend."] = "Cam, a boyfriend's friend">> <<if $VCard !== "Ronnie">><<set setup.HSBodies["Ronnie," + $DName + "'s friend."] = "Ronnie," + $DName + "'s friend">><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Don't know who it was, but do know I got fucked at a party."] = "Some guy at a HS party">> <</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Lorenzo, a guy at school's Dad."] = "Lorenzo, a schoolfriend's dad">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Archer, local university professor."] = "Archer, hometown university professor">> <<if $VCard !== "Tyler">><<set setup.HSBodies[$FName + "'s Dad, Tyler. Hanging out together gave the opportunity."] = $FName + "'s Dad, Tyler">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $MaleAttention gt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Enzo, a very complimentary local barber."] = "Enzo, hometown barber">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Rhett, picked me up in his pick-up."] = "Rhett in his pick-up">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Bentley insisted I was to be his Sugar Baby."] = "Bentley, my 'Sugar Daddy'">> <</if>> <<if $Confident lt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Roman, from a chat room."] = "Roman, met online">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Brooks, from Whisper."] = "Brooks from a chat app">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Axel, who slid into my DM's."] = "Axel, from Instagram">> <</if>> <<if $MaleReaction gt 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Ryker, an ex-con lucky after being down on his luck."] = "Ryker, ex-con">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Max, a pushy club promoter."] = "Max, club promoter">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Ace, the townie with a rep."] = "Ace, townie who had everyone">> <<if $VCard !== "Marco">><<set setup.HSBodies["Marco did construction at school."] = "Marco, construction Worker at school">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Clique == "Nerd">> <<set setup.HSBodies['A married guy, William, who was staying at the hotel during TwitchCon.'] = "William 'Milady' at the TwitchCon hotel">> <<if $Memories.includes("TwitchCosWin")>><<set setup.HSBodies['Levy, the head judge at the cosplay competition, which may have had something to do with the result.'] = 'Levy, Lead Judge at TwitchCon'>><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Vic">><<set setup.HSBodies['Vic, from FlyQuest.'] = 'Vic, from FlyQuest'>><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Loser">><<set setup.HSBodies['Our last minute replacement for the League Open.'] = 'Ryan Gary, the fifth from TwitchCon'>><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Stud">><<set setup.HSBodies['The confident guy from TwitchCon.'] = 'Chuck, the confident guy from TwitchCon'>><</if>> <<if $TwitchFifth == "Elijah">><<set setup.HSBodies['The guy I grabbed for the Open.'] = 'Elijah, the fifth I sourced at the Open'>><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies['On social media, Mark seemed to be about my age. In person, he was charming enough.'] = 'Mark, successful catfisher'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Got an autograph from Wil at the con, and a memory or two.'] = 'Wil, a not-so-famous Sci Fi actor'>> <<if $VCard !== "Eric">><<set setup.HSBodies["Ethan's older brother, Eric was my first DM, teaching me D&D and D."] = 'Eric, my first DM'>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Clique == "Sports">> <<if $VCard !== 'Rod'>><<set setup.HSBodies['Rod. We spent a ton of time together. Afternoons, weekends, alone and sweaty.'] = 'Coach Rod'>><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies['The assistant coach was always the last one around, and sometimes I showered too long.'] = 'Dick, the assistant coach'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Willy could never demonstrate what we were doing in PE, but I knew he was fit enough.'] = 'Sean, high school PE teacher'>> <<if $PaddyHU == "Marty">><<set setup.HSBodies["Playing with Marty once wasn't enough. I was a bright part of his year."] = 'Marty, Paddy regular'>><</if>> <<if $PaddyHU == "Sean">><<set setup.HSBodies["Sean and I spent a few late nights opening me while closing up the bar."] = "Sean, Paddy's bartender">><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Gael, judge at a competition."] = "Gael, volleyball judge">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Ryder, male club volleyball player."] = "Ryder from the men's volleyball club">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Kayden, Away Game bus driver."] = "Kayden, bus driver">> <</if>> <<if $Clique == "Popular">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Dominic, brother of a 'friend'."] = "Dominic, a friend's brother">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Carson, one of the hottest guys."] = "Carson, HS hottie">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Austin, one of the hottest guys."] = "Austin, HS hottie">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jace, one of the hottest guys."] = "Jace, HS hottie">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Declan, from our rival school."] = "Declan, from a rival HS">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Kingston, a hanger-on."] = "Kingston, popular wannabe">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Sawyer, our group's 'bicycle'."] = "Sawyer, popular-crowd hookup">> <<if $VCard !== "Derek">><<set setup.HSBodies["Derek was Big Man on Campus."] = "Derek, Big Man on HS Campus">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Clique == "Rebel">> <<if $Memories.includes("Nearly won Battle of the Bands") || $Memories.includes("Opened for Sara Morales")>> <<set setup.HSBodies['The Metalhead that LOVED our band.'] = 'Lonnie, Rock fanboi'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Willy gave me his card and we had a few meetings, though my band didn't go anywhere, he and I did."] = 'Willy, music industry judge'>> <</if>> <<if $Label == true>> <<if $VCard !== "Clay">><<set setup.HSBodies["Clay got coffee and talked some shop, and he helped me sing some high notes."] = 'Clay, GRD Assistant'>><</if>> <</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Colton, singer in a local band."] = "Colton, local singer">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Hunter, drummer in a local band."] = "Hunter, local drummer">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Christian, a roadie passing through."] = "Christian, a roadie">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Silas, bassist in a local band."] = "Silas, local bassist">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Xavier, guitarist in a local band."] = "Xavier, local guitarist">> <</if>> <<if $Clique == "Prude">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Sunday school wasn't only learning about the bible, and Ibrahim fascinated me with his expansive knowledge."] = 'Ibrahim, comparative religion teacher at Sunday School.'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Emmett, tenor in the choir."] = "Emmett, church tenor">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jeremiah, visiting deacon."] = "Jeremiah, visiting deacon">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Isaiah, altar boy."] = "Isaiah, an altar boy">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Eli, church organist."] = "Eli, church organist">> <<if $VCard !== "Hull">><<set setup.HSBodies["Minister John Hull, proving the rumor."] = "John Hull, Minister">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Mom == 0>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Dean, not really my cousin, was he."] = "Dean, my not blood-cousin">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Hayden," + $MName + "'s friend."] = "Hayden, my step-mom's friend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Maddox," + $MName +"'s ex-husband."] = "Maddox, my step-mom's ex-husband">> <<if $VCard !== "Uncle Tom">><<set setup.HSBodies["My 'uncle' Tom."] = "Uncle Tom">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Dad == 0>> <<if $Mom == "young">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Tucker, one of" + $MName + "'s boyfriends."] = $MName + "'s boyfriend, Tucker">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Emiliano, one of" + $MName + "'s boyfriends."] = $MName +"'s boyfriend, Emiliano">> <</if>> <<if $VCard !== "Arvin">><<set setup.HSBodies["My step-dad. We were alone from time to time and, I can't explain it, it happened. Quietly."] = 'Arvin, my Step-Dad'>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "home" || $hsv == "home">> <<set setup.HSBodies["My neighbor growing up."] = 'Neighbor Leo'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Damian, a plumber when I was alone."] = "Damian, a plumber">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, the UPS guy."] = "Chase, the UPS guy">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jesus, the older gardener."] = "Jesus, our older gardener">> <<if $VCard !== "Carlos">><<set setup.HSBodies["Carlos, the younger, hot gardener."] = "Carlos, our young gardener">><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Santiago, our middle-aged gardener."] = "Santiago, our other gardener">> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "vandal" || $hsv == "vandal">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Malachi, a cop and I didn't want to get arrested."] = "Malachi, a cop">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Mitchell, school security and I needed back in."] = "Mitchell, school security">> <<if $Sexuality !== 1>><<set setup.HSBodies["Allie, my partner in crime."] = "Allie, my partner in crime">><</if>> <<if $VCard !== "Raymond">><<set setup.HSBodies["Raymond had his truck."] = "Raymond, driver of the vandal vehicle">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "helper" || $hsv == "helper">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Beau, leader of the neighborhood watch."] = "Beau, neighborhood watch leader">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Rowan, working on his hot rod and needed help."] = "Rowan with the hot rod">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Micah, farmer from our Saturday farmer's market."] = "Micah, Saturday farmer from the market">> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "church" || $hsv == "church">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Dylan, my Youth Minister."] = "Dylan, Youth Minister">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Ezekiel, snack from youth group."] = "Ezekiel, youth group hottie">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Josiah, cutie from youth group."] = "Josiah, youth group hottie">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Charles, youth group outreach brought him into the fold and my bed."] = "Charles, from youth group outreach">> <<if $VCard !== "Samson">><<set setup.HSBodies["Samson was the hottest in youth group."] = "Samson, youth group hottie">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "partier" || $hsv == "partier">> <<set setup.HSBodies['Darnell, the green King in my circle.'] = 'My hometown weed hookup, Darnell'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['There was a taxi ride I got a little creative in payment for.'] = 'Mohammed, a taxi driver'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Easton, a guy from a house party."] = "Easton, rando at a house party">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Angel, a guy from a house party."] = "Angel, rando at a house party">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Nolan, a guy from a house party."] = "Nolan, rando at a house party">> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "gang" || $hsv == "gang">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Alejandro, another gangbanger."] = "Alejandro, fellow gangmember">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Zayden, and I was making peace with his guys."] = "Zayden, opposing gang leader">> <<if $VCard !== "Amari">><<set setup.HSBodies["Amari, our Capo."] = "Amari, gangleader">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "volunteer" || $hsv == "volunteer">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Joel, homeless but kind."] = "Joel, displaced person">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Matias, Salvation Army supervisor."] = "Matias, Salvation Army supervisor">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Peter, who inspired me with what he knew about Greenpeace."] = "Peter, Greenpeace proselytizer">> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "sporty" || $hsv == "sporty">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Patrick, on the shot-put team."] = "Patrick, Track and Field shot-put">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Colt, top sprinter."] = "Colt, HS top sprinter">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Tristan, coach from an opposing squad."] = "Tristan, coach for the opposing team">> <<if $VCard !== "Barkewitcz">><<set setup.HSBodies["My softball coach, Barkewitcz."] = "Coach Barkewitcz">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "beach" || $hsv == "beach">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Nash, from beach 'security'."] = "Nash, from beach 'security'">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Jeremy, hotshot surfer."] = "Jeremy, a hotshot surfer">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Kash, a nudist -- who shouldn't have been."] = "Kash, beach nudist">> <<if $VCard !== "Ian">><<set setup.HSBodies["Ian shared lifeguarding shifts with me."] = "Ian, another lifeguard">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $freetime == "club" || $hsv == "club">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Gareth had a weird name, and didn't need the cash, based on the house his parents lived in, but I enjoyed a discount from time to time -- I enjoyed him too."] = 'My hometown coke dealer, Gareth'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['There was a taxi ride I got a little creative in payment for.'] = 'Ajani, a taxi driver'>> <<set setup.HSBodies[`"'Nebula' -- never got his name, but dragged him off the club floor to the bathroom."`] = `"'Nebula' guy from that club"`>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Amin and I took pills and had blissed-out sex at his place."] = "Amin, pills and sex">> <<if $VCard !== "DJ Eros">><<set setup.HSBodies["DJ Eros."] = "DJ Eros">><</if>> <</if>> /*<<if $freetime == "tailgate" || $hsv == "tailgate">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <</if>>*/ <<if $freetime == "outdoors" || $hsv == "outdoors">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Preston, fellow hiker."] = "Preston, fellow hiker">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Kaleb, neighbor from the next camp."] = "Kaleb, camping neighbor">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Phoenix, park ranger."] = "Phoenix, park ranger">> <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "power">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Simon was a teacher's assistant in the science department, covering labs and always had an inside track on test questions."] = 'Simon, a high school teaching assistant'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["There was something about Jose's accent, rolling the tongue, or the Latin root."] = 'Jose, high school Spanish Teacher'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Paul was young, cute, and made Nabakov's Lolita make sense."] = 'Paul, high school English teacher'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['We joked that Karl was around when algebra was created, but he __did__ know how to balance my equations.'] = 'Karl, high school math teacher'>> <<if $VCard !== "Mark">> <<if $Clique == "Rebel">><<set setup.HSBodies['Sure, our principal sent me to detention a ton. He had ulterior motives.'] = 'Mark, the principal'>><</if>> <</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Everett, who used to buy us alcohol."] = "Everett, our alcohol hookup.">> <</if>> <<if $schoolinterest == "books">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Simon, creative writing teacher."] = "Simon, creative writing teacher">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Javier, local librarian."] = "Javier, librarian">> <<set setup.HSBodies['George, who was more than eager to sign my first-edition copy at a meet and greet.'] = 'George, famed sci-fi author'>> <</if>> <<if $Memories.includes("CheerCaptain")>> <<if $VCard !== 'Warren, Varsity QB'>><<set setup.HSBodies['Warren led our Varsity squad on the field and let me to bed off the field.'] = 'Warren, high school Varsity QB'>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Memories.includes("Cheerleader")>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Coach LeTourneau.'] = 'Coach LeTourneau'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Theo, HS Basketball Star.'] = 'Theo, HS Basketball Star'>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Maverick, HS Wrestling Star.'] = 'Maverick, HS Wrestling Star'>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == "act">> <<if $VCard !== "Vance">><<set setup.HSBodies["Vance played Romeo opposite me."] = "Vance, my Romeo">><</if>> <<if $actpath == 1>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Kenneth, audition room hook-up."] = "Kenneth, from an audition">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Bodhi, casting agent."] = "Bodhi, casting agent">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Tobias, casting director."] = "Tobias, casting director">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Malcolm, co-star I read opposite."] = "Malcolm, co-star I read opposite">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Martin, an agent I met with."] = "Martin, legit agent">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Daxton, 'up and coming' director."] = "Daxton, 'up-and-coming' director">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Rory, casting assistant."] = "Rory, casting assistant">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Gideon, a film producer."] = "Gideon, film producer">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Bradley, TV producer."] = "Bradley, TV producer">> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == "job">> <<if $makeit == 3>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Mateo, a server at Deb's showed me what was special tonight."] = "Mateo, server at Deb's">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Russell, regular at Deb's, possessive in-person and in bed."] = "Russell, Deb's pushy regular">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Juan, the porter at Deb's always helped clean up after."] = "Juan, Deb's porter">> <</if>> <<if $makeit == 2>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Sebastian, delivered for him and to him regularly."] = "Sebastian, delivery regular">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Aidan got his pizza delivery girl fantasy fulfilled."] = "Aidan, after a pizza delivery">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Wyatt, another Dasher helped me kill time."] = "Wyatt, fellow delivery guy">> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'dance'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Atticus, owner of the dance studio."] = "Atticus, dance studio owner">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Omar, only straight guy in my dance class."] = "Omar, from dance">> <<if $Sexuality !== 1>><<set setup.HSBodies["Misty, a beautiful ballerina."] = "Misty, ballerina">><</if>> <</if>> /*<<if $hsv == 'piano'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chase, ."] = "">> <</if>>*/ <<if $hsv == 'gym'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Zane, gymnastic judge."] = "Zane, gymnastic judge">> <<if $Sexuality !== 1>><<set setup.HSBodies["Laney, fellow gymnast."] = "Laney, fellow gymnast">><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Aleksandr was very hands on in his approach to improving my gymnastic form.'] = 'Aleksandr, former Soviet Olympian gymnast'>> <<if $VCard !== "Coach Vovk">><<set setup.HSBodies["Coach Vovk."] = "Coach Vovk">><</if>> <</if>> <<if $hsv == 'read'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Bryce, teacher at the community college."] = "Bryce, my teacher at community college">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Hudson went to community college with me."] = "Hudson from community college">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Julian showed me around a college campus."] = "Julian, college student and tour guide">> <</if>> <<if $wealth gt 2>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Griffin and I got bored together on his dad's yacht."] = "Griffin, wealthy family friend">> <<set setup.HSBodies["Richard was from across the lake during summer camp."] = "Richard, from the boys' summer camp">> <<set setup.HSBodies['Tommy was a counselor at summer camp. It was hot. He was hotter.'] = 'Tommy, summer camp counselor'>> <</if>> <<if $Sexuality !== 1>> <<if $Memories.includes("Cheerleader")>><<set setup.HSBodies["Bella, another cheerleader."] = "Bella, a cheerleader">><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies['Jackie was my roommate from summer camp.'] = 'Jackie, Summer Camp fling'>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Shauna was a boyfriend's ex...we looked a lot alike."] = "Shauna, a boyfriend's ex">> <</if>> <<if visited("HS002 - Studies")>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Paxton, PSAT proctor."] = "Paxton, proctor at my PSAT">> <<if $VCard !== "Harden">><<set setup.HSBodies['Harden, my highschool tutor.'] = 'Harden, my highschool tutor'>><</if>> <<set setup.HSBodies["Chang, a study buddy."] = "Chang, study buddy">> <</if>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor = [ "was decent.", "was a great lay.", "was barely a blip.", "came quick.", "couldn't really get it up.", "was mostly focused on me cumming.", "treated me like a fleshlight.", "went multiple rounds, multiple times.", "lasted til it hurt.", "preferred doggy.", "wanted me on top.", "asked permission to cum.", "enjoyed fucking my tits.", "had a giant dick.", "had a tiny dick.", "did amazing things with his fingers.", "was incredibly vocal.", "never made a sound until he came.", "was a mistake, but we had fun.", "loved to watch in the mirror.", "liked being tied up.", "loved pulling my hair.", "just kinda...happened?", ]>> <<if $Risky gt 0>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("nearly choked me out.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("tied me up.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("was always forceful when I gave head.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("had me worried he infected me.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("wanted to risk getting caught.")>> <</if>> <<if $fertile == 1>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("wanted to fuck my ass to avoid any risk.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("accidentally came in me anyway.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("broke the condom.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("took off the condom without telling me.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("had Plan B on hand because he preferred cumming in me.")>> <</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt 0>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("pressured me into anal.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("wanted me to eat his ass.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("loved tossing my salad.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("liked keeping me from cumming.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("preferred cumming on my face.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("would smack me while he fucked me.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("wanted me to talk dirty to him.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("liked to roleplay.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("got off with my feet.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("taped us fucking.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("liked blindfolding me.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("wanted to be blindfolded.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("had me peg him.")>> <<if $fertile == 0>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("hated condoms, so came in me anyway.")>> <<run setup.FuckFlavor.push("didn't have protection with him and convinced me once or twice wasn't that risky.")>> <</if>> <</if>> <<for _body range $Bodies>> <<if $BodiesDetails.has(_body)>> <<print `${_body} ${$BodiesDetails.get(_body).fuckFlavor}`>> <<else>> <<set _flavorText = setup.FuckFlavor.random()>> <<run $BodiesDetails.set(_body, { fuckFlavor: _flavorText })>> <<print `${_body} ${$BodiesDetails.get(_body).fuckFlavor}`>> <</if>> <br> <</for>> <</nobr>> <div id="bodycount"> <<nobr>> <<if $Bodies.length gte _BodiesNum>> <<if visited("HS009 - HomeVign3")>> Back to the story? Awesome. Yeah, sorry about that. My bad. [[Forgive me|HS011 - Graduation][$sexcount = true]]? <<else>> On with the story? [[Finally|HS008 - PromNight][$sexcount = true]]. <</if>> <<else>> <<set _unobtainedModSelection = Object.values(setup.HSBodies) .filter(mod => !$Bodies.includes(mod)) .shuffle()>> <<set _randomMax = 5 <= _unobtainedModSelection.length ? 5 : _availableBodyMods.length>> <<set _availableBodyMods = _unobtainedModSelection.splice(0, _randomMax)>> <<set $sexcount = true>> <<for _mod range _availableBodyMods>> <<capture _mod>> <<button _mod `passage()`>> <<run $Bodies.push(_mod)>> <</button>> <</capture>> <br> <</for>> <</if>> <</nobr>> </div><<if $PromDate == "Derek">> I had barely paid attention most of the evening, enthralled with the beauty in front of me. He looked good day-to-day, but //damn// did he clean up well. I was moist from the moment I saw him in his tux. Goddamn things had to be easy for him. Yeah, they must have been. Because he had no reaction when I urged him over to the bleachers so we could make out. His hand finding its way to between my thighs. By the time the night was closing out, my hormones were pounding through my body and I could tell he was ready. <<if $spoiled == true>>Before anyone noticed, Derek and I left Prom before anyone else could join us, en-route to the after party at <<print $FName>>'s -- they'd [[find a way|HS008 - PromNight2]].<<else>>As we made good on our exit, I let <<print $FName>> know she and the others would need to find other rides. She understood. What a good friend. And so there we were, two incredibly horny kids alone in the backseat. Neither of us paid any attention to the guy driving. We were making out and pawing at each other [[ravenously|HS008 - PromNight2]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Seven">> I don't know what I was thinking having all these guys as my 'dates'. At first there was a fun playfulness about it all, and they seemed content enough. But then, on our way to Prom, the dynamic of who was closest, who I was paying attention to...and then //at// Prom? Who was I dancing with. What did that mean for the others. And no one was happy with the idea of all dancing together. <<if $Attractiveness + $wiles gte 7>><<set $dates = 7>><<set $wiles ++>><<set $Confident ++>>Somehow, though, my allure seemed to keep them all drawn back to me regularly enough that they didn't leave my sphere of influence. It was a masterclass in manipulation, those around me getting physical attention, maybe some words, those away from me catching an eye and a look at a regular enough cadence. Fuck, this was //work//. Good for my pride, bad for my tiredness. Only two could really dance with me at once, but that meant there were more than enough refreshed and ready to go. Constantly between two horny kids, and I wasn't able to fight off four hands at once. I was a sweaty mess by the time we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $Attractiveness + $wiles gt 5>><<set $dates = 6>><<set $wiles ++>>With a little guile and good looks (I think), I was able to convince almost all of them to stick around. Good for my pride, bad for my tiredness. Only two could really dance with me at once, but that meant there were more than enough refreshed and ready to go. Constantly between two horny kids, and I wasn't able to fight off four hands at once. I was a sweaty mess by the time we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $Attractiveness + $wiles gt 4>><<set $dates = 5>><<set $wiles ++>>With a little guile and good looks (I think), I was able to convince most of them to stick around. Good for my pride, bad for my tiredness. Only two could really dance with me at once, but that meant there were more than enough refreshed and ready to go. Constantly between two horny kids, and I wasn't able to fight off four hands at once. I was a sweaty mess by the time we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $Attractiveness + $wiles gt 3>><<set $dates = 4>><<set $wiles ++>>With a little guile and good looks (I think), I was able to convince more than half of them to stick around. Good for my pride, bad for my tiredness. Only two could really dance with me at once, but that meant there was always two refreshed and ready to go. Constantly between two horny kids, pairs swapping off, tag-teaming in and out. And I wasn't able to fight off four hands at once. I was a sweaty mess by the time we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $Attractiveness + $wiles gt 2>><<set $dates = 3>><<set $wiles ++>>With a little guile and good looks (I think), I was able to convince almost half of them to stick around. Good for my pride, bad for my tiredness. Only two could really dance with me at once, but that meant there was always one refreshed and ready to go. Constantly between two horny kids, and I wasn't able to fight off four hands at once. I was a sweaty mess by the time we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $Attractiveness + $wiles gt 1>><<set $dates = 2>><<set $wiles ++>>A little triad was manageable and they seemed content to share me as the night went on. Dancing one in front, one behind, I was a sandwich constantly between these two horny kids, not able to fight off four hands at once. I don't know what happened to the other guys, because I was not given a break. Maybe one went off to get a refreshment or chat with a friend, but the other one insisted on continuing to dance. Then the other was back. I was a sweaty mess by the time we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<else>>It was far too much for me to handle and all my attempts to keep them strung along worked against me. Before long, I was alone on the dance floor, flown too close to the sun. <<set $Confident -->>I made a quick, quiet exit and avoided the after party, lest anyone ask questions. Better to deal with them after a weekend for people to [[forget|HS008 - PromNightClean]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Stephen">> He was a sweaty mess. Despite his repeated attempts to wipe his hands dry -- his slacks had to be soaked -- every time he touched me, it was clammy and moist. Yet, there was a puppydog quality about him that was endearing. His eyes were on me the entire night, and -- no cap -- there were some smokeshows at Prom. He wanted to know all about me, he made sure I had a drink and kept tabs on how I was feeling. And then, towards the end of the dance, he had begun to notice the pairing off back by the bleachers, or outside for 'a smoke' and I think I heard a whimper. Like a dog that is hoping for a treat but doesn't want to upset Master. <<if $MaleAttention gt 1>>Fuck. I felt so bad. I gave him a little pull by his sticky fingers and he looked at me surprised, double-checking. Another pull and we were walking over to the bleachers, too. I think I could hear his heart in his chest. Then, he slammed me firmly against the rolled-up steps and dived in. I felt the metal biting into my back and ass through my dress, his tongue diving into my mouth and I tried to match pace with him. As his hand wandered up to grope one of my breasts, I wondered if I was his first kiss. We came up for air, instinctively giving a wipe across my mouth from his spit and my cheek from his oily skin. I laughed it off, one hand still firmly pressing me against the bleachers, the other on my chest. He'd gone from puppy to rottweiler real quick, "Uh hey, I think our ride is here for the after party." He nodded, a flash in his eyes as every Prom trope entered his mind. We piled into the car and [[headed off|HS008 - PromNight2]].<<else>>I felt bad but I would feel worse about a pity kiss. His oily skin and acne weren't helping my decision either. Anyway, our ride was here -- it was time to [[party|HS008 - PromNight2]]!<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Absame">> His tux was fan-tas-tic. I don't know where he got it, but the cummerbund was red, ruddy, fawn and blue of his home country. He had pops of traditional African flair in his pocket square and even brought me a fricking //King Protea// for my corsage. And he had ''rhythm''. Dancing with him was incredible. We worked up a sweat and it wasn't the usual grinding and grabbing I was used to from other dance partners. We moved together and apart, matching tempo and motion with each other and the music. People were pissed and I certainly heard some rather repugnant comments from the peanut gallery when we went for refreshments. As the night began to wrap up, a slow dance, I ventured, "So are you interested in going to the after-party?" "My mother has asked that I be home promptly." That wonderful affected English. I couldn't help but smile and his smile was beautiful. <div id = "absame"> <<if $wiles gt 1>>I could <<link "try">><<replace "#absame">>"Oh, you've //never// disobeyed?" My hands tucked lightly under his cummerbund, sliding side to side to stroke through his shirt. "You don't want to see her when she's denied." He laughed uncomfortably. "Ever seen ''me'' denied?" My eyes flicked up to meet his dark chocolate pair. I could tell, I was having an effect. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>"Sounds about just as dangerous." As my hands slid nearer to the buttons, my cleavage was pressed up and together for his enjoyment. "I think danger is fun. Who knows. It's Prom anyway, when's the next time you'll be at Prom in America?" He coughed, I felt the meat in his pants reflexively pulse. He was swollen. He was going to say yes. He didn't say yes, but we all piled into the vehicle and headed off to the after party. He was uncomfortable, distracted by the need to hide his state, but also by thoughts of his disobedience. "Hey, hey. We'll get you home soon enough, Absame." He nodded, relieved. We pulled up in front of <<print $FName>>'s home And we [[headed inside|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<else>>"Denied in what way?" As my hands slid nearer the buttons, my cleavage was pressed up and together for his enjoyment. "Come on. Who knows. It's Prom anyway, when's the next time you'll be at Prom in America?" "One night is not worth the pain of a lifetime with her." Wow, he was resilient. So we piled in and headed off to the after party. I gave some directions to have us swing by and we left him in the care of his mother. And then the crew erupted into squeals, excitement and some rather crude questions and surprised expectations. I laughed them off and just enjoyed their company for the night. All told, it was a [[great Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>> and 'urge' him to come.<</if>> <<if $Easy gt 2>>I <<link "wanted to fuck him">><<replace "#absame">>"We could get you home close to on-time? How's that sound?" I made a rather unsubtle feel between his legs, shielded from sight as we danced close. He jerked back reflexively. "<<print $Name>>. Excuse me." The dance ended abruptly and I was shocked by his reaction, I think more than he was by the offer. <<if $spoiled == true>>Rage and disappointment boiled up inside me as I watched him disappear. He was making a scene and now I was going to be the gossip. Fuming, I stomped off and out of the gym. I wasn't going to subject myself to any of them or a stupid [[after party|HS008 - PromNightClean]].<<else>>I shook my head in disbelief. His loss, though. I don't know how or if he got a ride home, maybe his Mom came to pick him up. The rest of us, on the other hand, piled into the vehicle and headed off to the after party. The whole trip, the crew was squealing, full of excitement and some rather crude questions and surprised expectations. I laughed them off and just enjoyed their company for the night. It was a [[great Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>> though. Maybe make that clear?<</if>> I tried to quash my thoughts, I had to <<link "respect him">><<replace "#absame">>"Oh, of course. Want us to drop you off on the way?" "That would be lovely, <<print $Name>>." God, it could make you melt. So we piled in and headed off to the after party. I gave some directions to have us swing by and we left him in the care of his mother. And then the crew erupted into squeals, excitement and some rather crude questions and surprised expectations. I laughed them off and just enjoyed their company for the night. It was a [[great Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>> and his mother.</div> <<elseif $PromDate == "Miguel">> The night was a mix of reactions, but mostly jealousy from guys and girls. I loved showing up with a surprise on my arm. And he seemed to love showing up to a new meat market. And that's where the frustration came. I had to keep his attention somehow. <div id ="miguel"> <<if $Easy gt 2 && $MaleAttention gt 1>>If he was that much of a pussy hound, I needed to get other <<link "pussy off his mind">><<replace "#miguel">>I couldn't get him to the dance floor, I couldn't get him to chat by the refreshments. Fuck his wandering ass. Wait. Yes. Fuck him. I slid up behind him and despite him being in the midst of a conversation with Ava -- maybe //because// of that fact -- I whispered, "Wanna go outside and fuck?" She heard me, but he heard me too. "Uh, Si. //Si//. Gonna go fuck, kay, Ava?" Was his attempt at closing out the conversation while we moved away from her -- god, that felt good -- and left the gym into the [[cool evening air|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> <<if $Confident gte $social>>I didn't need to fight for his attention. I was <<link "better than that">><<replace "#miguel">>I couldn't get him to the dance floor, I couldn't get him to chat by the refreshments. Fuck his wandering ass. Despite the fact that he was now chatting with Ava, I pushed down my own jealously and found <<print $FName>>. "Hey, <<print $Name>>. Sorry about El Douche." Pulling me into a little threesome with her date. She kept me occupied and distracted for the rest of the night, screaming and bouncing along to music, getting trashed at the after party at her place and waking up curled up with her in bed the [[next morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<<else>>No, no no! Stop looking at those other girls. Just straight up <<link "tell him">><<replace "#miguel">>I couldn't get him to the dance floor, I couldn't get him to chat by the refreshments. Fuck his wandering ass. He was talking to Ava. I was pissed. I stormed right up to him and gave him a not-so-gentle bump of my hip. "Que paso, <<print $Name>>?" he lifted an eyebrow. So did Ava. "Look, you're ''my'' date--" She cut me off, "And he's talking to //me//, bitch." <<if $spoiled == true || $Stable lt 1>>I lost it. I grabbed her hair and <<shake 2s>>yanked<</shake>>. Soon, we were clawing and screaming. Dresses tearing, scratching and pulling at each other as chaperones were trying, desperately to pry us apart. Fury only slowly calming inside me as an adjunct wrestling coach had my arms pinned back, trying to hurt her with my eyes. I was being dragged out of the gym. Guess my night was ending early. <<print $FName>> was giving an "Oops" face. Ava looked like she had taken more than she had given. Miguel...oh. Was off chatting up another girl, despite the show. After receiving a stern talking to, a write-up for detention, I decided better [[not head to an after party|HS008 - PromNightClean]] without Miguel and after that display.<<else>>I wasn't going to rise to the occasion. Rolling my eyes, I pulled at Miguel but he wouldn't come, "Despues, chica." He waved me away. I fumed alone, but was pleasantly surprised when he was amongst the crew climbing into the vehicle to head to [[the after party|HS008 - PromNight2]].<</if>> <</replace>><</link>>, right?<</if>> <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>><<if $wiles gt 0>>Keep his <<link "eyes on the prize">><<replace "#miguel">>I couldn't get him to the dance floor, I couldn't get him to chat by the refreshments. Fuck his wandering ass. I slid up behind him and despite him being in the midst of a conversation with Ava -- maybe //because// of that fact -- my cleavage pressing against him from behind, my hand sliding down into his, lightly brushing his palm. "Having fun?" "Uh, Si." Not won yet, but he did look back at me at his shoulder. "Que paso, <<print $Name>>." I leaned in, letting my lips lightly brush his earlobe and shifting to make sure that only he heard me. My breath warm into his ear, "Leaving me alone might make you lonely. It's not very nice...and I can be very nice." He chuckled, his eyes distant as he considered, but he hadn't looked back at Ava who was stewing -- god, that felt good. "That a promise, chica?" I gave his earlobe a little tug with my teeth. A few moments later we were dancing. I made sure to let him grab and pull me against him, much to the chagrin of the chaperones. I wanted him to see skin, I wanted to feel his excitement, I needed to keep him with me until we left the gym for the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <</replace>><</link>> and promise of the future.<</if>><<else>>Keep his <<link "eyes on the prize">><<replace "#miguel">>I couldn't get him to the dance floor, I couldn't get him to chat by the refreshments. Fuck his wandering ass. I slid up behind him and despite him being in the midst of a conversation with Ava -- maybe //because// of that fact -- my cleavage pressing against him from behind, my hand sliding down into his, lightly brushing his palm. "Having fun?" "Uh, Si." Not won yet, but he did look back at me at his shoulder. "Que paso, <<print $Name>>." I leaned in, letting my lips lightly brush his earlobe and shifting to make sure that only he heard me. My breath warm into his ear, "Leaving me alone might make you lonely. It's not very nice...and I can be very nice." He chuckled, eyes dropping to consider me. Well, my body. Then my face, then back to Ava. Ouch, that hurt. A few moments later, I was dancing, trying to avoid looking at them getting close. Joe, her guy was standing nearby, surprisingly unaffected by the entire display. My pride stung, but he was with the crew piling in to head off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <</replace>><</link>> and promise of the future.<</if>></div> <<elseif $PromDate == "Chad">> There was something perfunctory to the evening, not much chatter, but there was an enjoyable amount of attention to me and my body. He wanted to be close, he wanted to admire, and he definitely wanted to put his hands on me. "How many Proms is this for you?" I leaned in to whisper to him on the dance floor. "Six? Eight? Somethin' like that. God, you look hot" quickly changing the subject back to his preference. I tried to convince myself he just wasn't much of a conversationalist. It explained the lack of attention and distance before. But it was certainly harder to excuse him as I battled his hands -- worse as the evening proceeded and we headed off to the [[after party|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">> Oh man was the evening awkward. <<print $Friend1>> was trying to figure out where he stood, was he a friend or was he a date. Or both? I could tell he was confused, I certainly was. We were each trying to read each other's body language while we danced, hands tentatively on each other, conversation that normally was fluid had become abortive and jerky. There was a rise of...fear? As the night came to a close and we both knew that the after parties came next. We [[clambered in|HS008 - PromNight2]] with everyone else as we headed to <<print $FName>>'s. <<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">> It hadn't been a cute look, letting Ava get distracted by her own hopes of winning the crown and 'accidentally' finding myself near her beaux, Joe. Even less cute were the texts I had been sending him over the past few weeks. Much more cute was his smile each time I appeared, or the way he let my fingers play with his. And Ava hadn't noticed until it was far too late...the other girls were much more the wiser. Needless to say, making out against the bleachers was when Ava realized my machinations. They went outside, they fought, she fought back tears, and then Joe came in sheepishly, gave a little shrug and we were attached at the hip the remainder of the evening. Clearly we weren't invited to Ava's after-party, but I hadn't considered that an option from the beginning of all this. Instead, we rolled up to <<print $FName>>'s. It was a smaller party, but much more my people. Hand in hand with my new conquest, we strutted into the house, music already thumping and Solo cups in everyone's hands. Joe was cute enough, but his personality made it clear why he was with Ava...//was// with her. And why he was so easy to pry free. Quite a follower. <<print $FName>> gave me an awkward smile as we moved in, grabbing some party punch. Yeah, even my best friend was having trouble socially excusing my behavior. Oh well. I dragged him out to the middle of her dining room and we began to dance, trying to ignore the [[whispers and looks|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Arvin">> <<if $Bodies.includes("Arvin, my Step-Dad") || $VCard == "Arvin">>We had spent the time leading up to Prom, as well as the perfunctory pre-Prom stuff, being as nonchalant and uninterested as possible. It was just a fun time, and an excuse for a 'Dad' to be protective and me not to stress about a date, or worry about them. Little did anyone know. It wasn't the first time a kid had brought a family member to Prom, so it actually got easier once we were there. Keeping up appearances as we danced. But while there was an ease around us, there wasn't between us. We wanted to be closer, we wanted to breach the social contract and understanding of what we appeared to be -- supposed to be doing. <<if $Easy gt $Stable>>I couldn't resist it. Leaning up onto my tiptoes mid-dance, "Can we just...leave early?" "What about the after party?" "We can't have one?" I smirked. We left, and he literally shook the Principal's hand before heading [[back home|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>>"This is hard." Leaning up onto my tiptoes mid-dance to whisper in his ear. "Yes. I am." He chuckled dirtily. He must be enjoying the secretive wrongness about this as well. "Good." A surreptitious little nip at his earlobe and we went back to dancing. He pulled me close in a 'comforting Dad' kind of way. My hand slipped between us to test his comment for truthfulness. I'm not sure if anyone noticed that I was grabbing his cock the entire dance, but I was. <<print $FName>> looked a little surprised that we weren't headed to the after party, but it made sense. As weird as any of this was, it'd be far weirder if he attended a high school party with drinking and sex. So we left the others to do typical Prom night stuff and we could do our typical [[night stuff|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <</if>> <<else>>It was certainly awkward, leading up to Prom and especially during the perfunctory pre-Prom stuff. My 'Dad' was just being protective and preventing me from having to worry about picking a date or what they'd be like. But there was this sexual tension //because// it was Prom that made even the most normal thing with him really awkward. I hoped that once the night was over, all that would pass. It wasn't the first time a kid had brought a family member to Prom, so it actually got easier once we were there. Keeping up appearances as we danced. But while there was an ease around us, there wasn't between us. I couldn't help but catch these looks and curiously wonder if the tension I was feeling had a different reason. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3 && $perception gt 0>>"Shit." I thought. I wondered if he noticed the shock on my face. "He //wants// this to be a date." My heart jumped into my throat. <<if $MaleAttention gt 1 && $Easy gt 1 && $Risky gt $Stable>>I cocked my head to the side, surprised, both by the realization, but also by how my pussy just reacted. My <<print $Eyes>> eyes investigated his, searching for hidden communication. There was a back and forth as we danced, each trying to sus the other's intentions while still being safe. This was a powder keg that could have massive ramifications. As the slow dance ended, I leaned up to give him a peck on the cheek, then leaned to his ear, cleavage purposefully against his arm, "Wanna get outta here?" I thought he'd die right there. Heart attack or something. I nearly fell as he jerked in response. He coughed a couple times and I could see his mind reeling while his body did the same. He looked around, careful, concerned. Then he nodded. He shook Principal Mark's hand and we left, skipping <<print $FName>>'s after party...I'd have to come up with a [[good excuse there|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<else>>I pushed that thought from my mind hard and excused myself for a refreshment. He sheepishly became a wallflower for the rest of the night as I avoided him. And then he was gone, thankfully. I didn't mention it to anyone, and it was not surprising to anyone that I came to the after party solo. It was a great time though, despite dateless. I got super fucking drunk. I needed to black this night out. <<print $FName>> didn't mind being a little triad with her date and I. We danced the [[night away|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>> I smiled, leaning my head against his chest, finishing off our slow dance. I felt him sigh, "Thanks, Dad." I cooed softly. He petted my head. There was a tinge of sadness to his look as I waved to him and piled off with everyone else to the after party. It was a great time though, despite dateless -- would have been //far// too weird to have him join the debauchery. I got drunk, <<print $FName>> didn't mind being a little triad with her date and I. We danced the [[night away|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>><</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Harden">> Harden had retained a respectful distance throughout the night. I could tell he liked me -- the energy at my house was not as pleased -- and I enjoyed the sort of chaste playfulness of the dancing and talking. He looked young enough that kids weren't really paying attention, only <<print $FName>> and my closest had any inkling that he was my tutor and older. To everyone else, he was just my extra-scholastic guy. I was fine with that. It felt more secretive. Like we were getting away with something. "<<print $Name>>. You //can't//." There was firmness in his voice (and in his pants), but his eyes were softer, receptive. "No one saw!" a devilish smile. I had to be blueballing him at this rate, his ache was palpable. But he wasn't keen on this venue and seemed content to wait. Such a polite guy. I couldn't help but laugh -- all the girls did -- as he was trying to get into our vehicle on the way to the after party. Something was making it very ''hard'' for him to bend over, to move his legs. The cat was out of the bag and he took it in stride -- even while [[he couldn't|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Stag">> Going solo felt like a power-move, but it also was //incredibly// lonely. Everyone else was there paired off and paired up. Long-standing boyfriends and girlfriends, or relationships just in their beginning stages. It kind of reminded me how single I was at the moment. <<print $FName>> did her best to keep me not too down about it, but she had her date and I wasn't going to steal her away from him. <<if $Risky gt 2 && $Stable lt 0 && $Confident gt 1>>I ''could'' try to steal someone else, though. Talk about //power// //move//. I began scanning the room for options, deciding whether or not I would be that selfish? Cruel? <div id ="steal"><<link "Empowered">><<replace "#steal">><<set $wiles ++>><<set $deception ++>><<set $Confident ++>>Empowered. And there was my target: I had only barely considered the idea before, but that had felt like a calculated, strategic decision. This felt more personal and less practical. Joe, just standing against the wall as Ava received fawning admirers, would be mine. Taking the circuitous route, I managed to avoid Ava's sight-line while sidling up to her beaux. He didn't look up from his phone until I leaned in and gave a little whisper into his ear, "Hey." "Hey, <<print $Name>>." No confusion, no excitement, simple, even-keeled. Hm. "She really doesn't give you your due." My chin nestled on his shoulder, both of us watching her be...her. "It's not fair to you." My lips were brushing his ear, my fingers lightly finding their way to his, "You deserve better." A little tug of my teeth at his lobe, then playful stroking along his palm. <<if $Attractiveness gt 3>>I felt him shudder and fingers clasp into mine. His eyes darted towards Ava as if he had just committed the worst crime. "A-are you...serious?" He gulped. I nodded and began to surreptitiously guide him away from her cabal. Out of sight, out of mind, I hoped. Soon, we were dancing. Others gave me looks, but it wasn't until we were climbing in together to head to the after party that Ava came screaming like a banshee out of the gym. He ducked inside the vehicle as I smiled and gave her the [[finger|HS008 - PromNight2]]. <<else>>He tugged away like a deer that had narrowly avoided being shot and drew back, not making eye contact, "Uh, Ava...want to dance?" He approached her quickly, I could tell he was making sure that she hadn't noticed. She blew his request for a dance off immediately, but accepted his hand as he moved in beside her. <<set $Confident -= 2>>A massive blow to my pride, I wasn't going to put up with any more of this lonely shit for the rest of the night. I skipped the [[after party|HS008 - PromNightClean]] <</if>> <</replace>><</link>>? Nah, I <<link "couldn't">><<replace "#steal">>Nah, I couldn't. And that's kind of how it went, danced some in little triads with people I knew and who were kind enough to engage. But by the time the night was winding down, even with <<print $FName>>'s encouragement, I felt kind of empty and didn't want to subject myself to more of the same. I ducked out of the [[after party|HS008 - PromNightClean][$Stable ++; $discipline ++]]. <</replace>><</link>>.</div> <<else>> And that's kind of how it went, danced some in little triads with people I knew and who were kind enough to engage. But by the time the night was winding down, even with <<print $FName>>'s encouragement, I felt kind of empty and didn't want to subject myself to more of the same. I ducked out of the [[after party|HS008 - PromNightClean]]. <</if>><</if>><<if $Memories.includes("PromQueen")>> <<if $PromDate == "Derek">> <<if $Easy lte 0>>I shouldn't have been surprised when he started unzipping and trying to guide my head down. I frowned and looked at him in surprise, shaking my head and continuing to entwine tongues as I entwined my fingers on his freed phallus. Pumping slowly, focused more on his pheromones and kissing him, it wasn't long before he broke the kiss, "Come on, <<print $Name>>," leaning back and making his intention clear. I didn't want to be a typical Prom Night notch. So I shook my head, "Oh come //on//. Are you for real? You little ''cocktease''." My attraction for him turned right off. I scooted away, despite the need in my nethers. The car arrived at the party and we didn't say another word to each other. <<print $FName>> knew well enough not to ask where Derek was when she saw me. She and I danced the night away, much to the chagrin of her own date. What a [[good friend|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<<else>> I shouldn't have been surprised when he started unzipping and trying to guide my head down. And down I went, listening to him groaned as I moved awkwardly, trying to maintain the crown. His hand helped, pressing it down into my scalp as he forced me to go deeper. I gagged, he grunted and said, "Mhmm." Pulling up, he smiled down at me and then pressed back in making me gag again, repeating that with a massively pleased look on his face. <<if $HSBC gt 10>>I held it together and was held down as he began to cum, pumping his load into my throat while groaning out, "Good girl." Once finished, he guided me firmly to suck him dry before relieving me. Despite the soaked situation between my thighs, he chatted away pleasantly until we arrived at the party. We grabbed some drinks and he pulled me into the dining room -- a makeshift dance area -- and got back to the makeout session from before. My body was pleading. <<if $Suggestive + $Easy gte $Confident + $Sophisticated>>Luckily, it was only about one drink before, "Want to go find a room?" I nodded like a puppy that needed to go out. Without any romance, I led him by the leash of our entwined hands. I knew <<print $FName>>'s [[house well|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>>I surprised myself when about one drink in, he whispered to me, "Want to go find a room?" My body balked. I felt so used from earlier, I pulled away from him and he just smiled, shrugging it off and turning away with the barest of recognition. Thankfully, <<print $FName>> was there to be a shoulder to cry on. My makeup already a [[lost cause|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>>So, I vomited all over his nice, new tux. He smacked me and it shocked me, my diaphragm already hitting up at my guts, the extra pain came out of nowhere. I was frazzled. He was pissed. <<print $FName>> knew well enough not to ask where Derek was when she saw me. She and I danced the night away, much to the chagrin of her own date. What a [[good friend|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Seven">>Having a cheering section waiting for you after winning a crown was incredibly fun, and even more fun was heading to an after party with <<print $dates>> guys around you. It was extra crowded since there weren't really expectations for this many people to be traveling to <<print $FName>>'s. And that's when they started to get extra handsy, using other people as cover and blocked eyelines. <<if $Suggestible + $Risky gte $Stable + $Sophisticated>>A hand snaked up between my thighs. I shifted, looking around and trying to maintain normalcy as a finger sunk into me. A laugh to cover the gasp. I wanted to figure out which one of them it was, but I didn't want to give away what was happening. I might have been successful, I might not have been, but any chance of secrecy was gone as I started to cum right then and there. Still minutes away from the party, I was gasping and twitching slightly, hand grasping the wrist between my thighs as everyone in the vehicle got __quiet__. Except one, Aaron, who was chuckling at getting me off. Then awkwardness set in on everyone until we were able to disembark in front of the house. <<else>>A hand snaked up between my thighs. I shifted, looking around and trying to maintain normalcy as I batted the hand away, pulling at the wrist. Then I tumbled off one of their laps and dropped onto the floorboards amongst all the nice shoes, my dress up around my hips. "S-sorry, guys." I noticed that one of them, Aaron, did not look pleased. Everyone else was laughing though and none the wiser. We all disembarked in front of the house without any more shenanigans, but I was sans one of the guys. Aaron departed without even saying goodbye.<<set $dates -->><</if>> <<if $dates gt 1>>And there we were, inside, grabbing drinks and getting into the party. We danced much the same that we had at the gym, but they had less restraint because of the lack of chaperones and people judging them. I had less restraint because I was getting drunk and really fucking horny from how they were acting all night. I think they could tell my state of mind because after the first song, I was being brought off the dance floor down a hallway to find a room. All the work so far the evening had also left me exhausted. Wordlessly, [[easily complying|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<elseif $dates is 1>>Shit. Well, I still had one, the last, the loyal: Igor. Definitely the least good looking out of the bunch. We grabbed drinks and got to dancing. He was far less restrained given he had 'won', there were no chaperones, and no one to judge him or fight him. I was less restrained because I was reticent to lose my last date, and all the work of the evening had left me exhausted. I think he could sense my state of mind, because soon he was guiding me off the floor without a word, trying to find a room for us to [[go to|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Stephen">> I think he was empowered by being Prom King. And overjoyed to be spending the night with his Prom Queen. As we rolled up to <<print $FName>>'s house, Stephen had a good clamp on my hand. I think a rainforest was growing. <<print $FName>> gave a surprised nod and eyebrow raise. The sentiment was shared by everyone else this evening. It had felt like all eyes were on us -- and not in the best way. I needed to make a decision about the rest of the night. Now. <div id = "stephen"> <<if $Easy gt $Sophisticated>>It didn't matter. There wasn't //that// much school left, no matter <<link "the result">><<replace "#stephen">>Clasped together, handcuffed, we walked in together. Another wash of amazed looks passed over us. I had thought that I was doing a good deed. Making an Underclassman's night. Little did I know exactly what that meant. He pulled me right to the dance floor -- the dining room rearranged. He pulled me much closer than at school, grinding hard on me. And I felt his hard on. The puppy from earlier was long gone and now I felt like prey, but I wasn't going to be some tease. I didn't lead people on. "Feel that?" He chuckled in my ear as he humped slowly against my thigh. I nodded and saw his grin, letting the porn he watched inform his next words, "Ready for it?" Fuck. My pussy was wet. Goddamn it, I hadn't even gotten a drink yet. He also wasn't waiting for my response, maybe he felt my heat and finally noticed what and where moisture was //supposed// to be. Feeling the stares in my back, he was walking me into the back of the house, on a [[new hunt|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt $social>>It didn't matter. There wasn't //that// much school left, no matter <<link "the result">><<replace "#stephen">>Clasped together, handcuffed, we walked in together. Another wash of amazed looks passed over us. I had thought that I was doing a good deed. Making an Underclassman's night. Little did I know exactly what that meant. He pulled me right to the dance floor -- the dining room rearranged. He pulled me much closer than at school, grinding hard on me. And I felt his hard on. The puppy from earlier was long gone and now I felt like prey, but I wasn't going to be some tease. I didn't lead people on. "Feel that?" He chuckled in my ear as he humped slowly against my thigh. I nodded and saw his grin, letting the porn he watched inform his next words, "Ready for it?" Fuck. My pussy was wet. Goddamn it, I hadn't even gotten a drink yet. He also wasn't waiting for my response, maybe he felt my heat and finally noticed what and where moisture was //supposed// to be. Feeling the stares in my back, he was walking me into the back of the house, on a [[new hunt|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> Even with the tail-end of school on the horizon, I couldn't kill my social standing over this. The girls had gotten their joke in and I needed to get <<link "out">><<replace "#stephen">>Slowly, I pried my fingers from his on the walk to the front door, "What are you doing?" He had noticed. I wasn't hiding my intentions well enough. "Uh, Steve--" "It's //Stephen//." We had pulled to a stop behind the others. Thankfully they didn't stay an audience. "Right, sorry. Look, tonight's been really fun--" "Right, we're having a great time. Let's go." He pulled at me. I strained back. "I don't get this hot-cold shit, but I'll see you inside." He pulled free, glowering, and went in. Alone in the cool air, I chewed my lower lip, contemplating my options. If I went in, between knowing myself, seeing his reaction, and knowing...people...my identity would be destroyed. So, I [[left|HS008 - PromNightClean]]. <</replace>><</link>>.</div> <<elseif $PromDate == "Absame">> Comments of "African King" were getting old. They came directly and showing outwardly complimentary, but still. I had upset the apple cart, and that I had won? Hurt that white pride. He denied a drink as soon as he noticed the scent of shitty vodka. So, I pounded one as politely as I could without upsetting him and we resumed our dancing on the dance floor -- space made in her dining room. The dancing was different this time around, closer, more physical, with an animalistic and growing passion. "I am sorry, <<print $Name>>, I really must be going home." He was breathing hard, he was hard. I lifted up, pressing my body to him in response and kissing him for the first time this evening. My tongue tentatively probed at his lips and he accepted it. He pulled me closer as we began to make out in front of everyone, feeling his heartbeat in his chest against mine and his cock against my thigh. "Come on." I smiled after a few moments, fingers entwining with his, "Let's get you on your way home." I don't think he understood the American idiom and play on words, but he understood the subtext, clearing his throat uncomfortably as I led him through the oft-walked hallway of <<print $FName>>'s home. I found a suitable side room and [[guided him inside|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Miguel">> It was incredible to me at how dispassionate he had been about becoming Prom King, almost like an expected bump to his pride, or maybe the reason we were heading together to the after party -- he had the Prom Queen with him. Whatever the reason, we rolled up to <<print $FName>>'s house and headed to get some party punch together. And that's when my heart dropped. Somehow, Ava had swallowed her pride and was already //here//. Behind enemy lines. Forgoing her own party, probably because she had lost, to instead crash the Queen. She contentedly sipped punch, smiling at Miguel as we approached. Despite my best efforts to corral him, Ava found her way to interpose herself. And there they were, laughing while I stood by, watching. I felt like Joe, just a few feet away who was sipping his punch, just like I was. Shit. I had to move, and //now// to distract him again. My hand clasped into his, trying to physically pull him away and remind him of my presence. A flick of his wrist, he didn't even look back. "Nah, pollo caliente. Nada para me? Nada para ti." Ava nyah-nyah'd over her shoulder as they walked away. I hadn't seen that in ages. Suited her well. <<print $FName>> sighed and clutched me to her, "Sorry bae, come dance." And we did. Until later when she came racing back to me from a bathroom break. Tearfully dragging me down the hallway, I saw Joe leaning against the wall near her room. There was a thong hanging from the doorknob. She flung it aside, twisting and tugging at the handle. "Uh. Occupied." Joe tried to stave her off. "Her. Room, cuck-o." I was infuriated for her, all of tonight's miseries coming to a head together. Joe didn't fight me, but the door didn't open. <<print $FName>> pounded on the door, we both screamed obscenities at Ava as we heard Miguel grunting and her squealing. We didn't get back into the room. <<print $FName>> and I curled up together on a couch and I comforted her, which comforted me. It was a [[shitty-ass Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Chad">> Whether or not he clocked the crown on my head, or that he had been named Prom King was unclear. His eyes were lower. I could tell he was getting worked up and it was making some of the other girls uncomfortable. His presence usually did, and tonight they were getting it in spades. They scattered when we arrived at <<print $FName>>'s, "Drink?" He grinned dumbly, pulling me towards the punch, "Here hold mine." A sloshing red beverage as he turned back to get mine. "It's really loud here." He motioned to the invisible throbbing of music as I took my first sip. I knew what he meant. <<if $Suggestible lt 0 || $MaleReaction lt 1>>"Yeah, isn't the music great!" I leaned in, giving another tease of contact, my hand going for his and tugging him towards the dining room where a dance floor had been mocked up. He rolled his eyes but compliantly followed me out. We continued dancing, more handsy than during Prom and my dress was constantly being tugged up to show my ass. I let him, he grinned, quickly pounding his drink and nodding for me to follow suit. I don't know who made the punch or if it was just he was well-practiced drinking, "Hey, I gotta slow down..." I whispered to him, giving him a peck on his cheek as I dropped back down. Did I mean to kiss him? "No worries...here..." And with my dress up around my hips, hand on my asscheek, he guided me away from the dance floor, my head [[leaning on his arm|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<else>>This had been on his brain since he asked me to Prom, probably, and he'd been patient. "Yeah, it is." I smiled, he smiled as I turned, his hand immediately giving my ass a firm smack. His fingers dug in as we weaved through the crowd, sipping our drinks and moving to the back hallway. I knew <<print $FName>>'s house quite well and found an empty guest room. I mean, the party had [[barely started|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">> I distracted myself with the others on the ride over, as did he. There were moments our fingers touched, but not further. It was a relief when we arrived and there were so many people. And drinks. We rushed to grab some party punch and began chugging, if just to shut off our anxiety. "Hey, uh, congrats. Never thought I'd be //Prom// King. Kinda a default title, isn't it. Like First Lady?" I nodded, laughing. There we go. That's the <<print $Friend1>> I knew. "How's gender roles feel being swapped?" And so it went. <<if $Stable gt 0>>Easy banter, some dancing and hanging out with friends. I think we were both glad to have navigated that awkwardness. It was a night [[to remember|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>Drinking made things easier, so we drank more. Touched more. <<print $FName>> suddenly wasn't around and I knew what that hint was. Or at least my party-brain did. I leaned in and we started [[making out|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">> As I guided Joe against me for the umpteenth time, my mind wandered -- had nabbing Ava's boyfriend been crucial to my win? "Looks like you made the right choice, tonight." I flashed a smile, my fingertips readjusting the tiara in my hair. He nodded and smiled with a slight shrug, "Yeah, I guess so." Sigh. Something about this felt incredibly underwhelming. Here was my Prom King, hands sliding from where I had put them behind me back to the front of my hips. I hadn't been congratulated once by anyone, not even <<print $FName>>. This was supposed to be a crowning achievement of my high school career, and here I was, practically bored. <<if $Easy gt 3 || $spoiled == true>>I pounded my cup, wanting my buzz to be in over gear as I took reluctant Joe by the hand again, "It's loud in here...want to go someplace quieter?" "Uh, sure. Yeah." He nodded as I maneuvered him through the crowd that wouldn't make eye contact, meandering towards the bedrooms. I knew her [[house well|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>> My buzz was fading fast, I looked into the cup at the red juice, the artificial blend of vodka and sugar distasteful on my tongue. I shook my head and stepped back from Joe, "Hey, I'm just not feeling it." He nodded. He //nodded//. Was there anything he fought? Did he have personal stakes at all? Ava could have him. I pounded my cup, forcing the shitty punch down as I tried to find my friend. But she had disappeared with her own date. Looking around for friendly eyes, I found none. And Joe was texting. The Prom Queen had to save face. I ducked out as quick [[as I could|HS008 - PromNightClean]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Harden">> My win of Prom Queen was the last thing on my mind -- thank teen hormones. By the time we arrived, no one cared anymore, even him, so I just kept my hand on his cock, playing with him slowly through his pants. The other couples, especially the girls, acted like literally nothing was happening -- though the guys were more interested in vicarious enjoyment. Harden had gotten over himself as well and his hand was between my thighs, finger pushing in and out slowly from my clutch. And so we sat there, in the backseat casually petting on each other. It was no surprise that we didn't bother with stopping off for a dance or a drink when we got to <<print $FName>>'s house. She smacked me firmly on my ass, ensuring I went right down the hallway. None of the rooms were claimed, the party had just begun, so we began clawing our clothes off of each other as we went down the hallway. My dress crumpling on the carpet, his jacket, then his shirt, like a trail to the nearest bedroom. I have no clue how many people saw us getting naked, nor what went on with our clothes in the meantime: we were on [[a mission|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Stag">> As I guided Joe against me for the umpteenth time, "Looks like you made the right choice, tonight." I flashed a smile, my fingertips readjusting the tiara in my hair. He nodded and smiled with a slight shrug, "Yeah, I guess so." Sigh. Something about this felt incredibly underwhelming. Here was my Prom King, hands sliding from where I had put them behind me back to the front of my hips. I hadn't been congratulated once by anyone, not even <<print $FName>>. This was supposed to be a crowning achievement of my high school career, and here I was, practically bored. <<if $Easy gt 3 || $spoiled == true>>I pounded my cup, wanting my buzz to be in over gear as I took reluctant Joe by the hand again, "It's loud in here...want to go someplace quieter?" "Uh, sure. Yeah." He nodded as I maneuvered him through the crowd that wouldn't make eye contact, meandering towards the bedrooms. I knew her [[house well|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>> My buzz was fading fast, I looked into the cup at the red juice, the artificial blend of vodka and sugar distasteful on my tongue. I shook my head and stepped back from Joe, "Hey, I'm just not feeling it." He nodded. He //nodded//. Was there anything he fought? Did he have personal stakes at all? Ava could have him. I pounded my cup, forcing the shitty punch down as I tried to find my friend. But she had disappeared with her own date. Looking around for friendly eyes, I found none. And Joe was texting. The Prom Queen had to save face. I ducked out as quick [[as I could|HS008 - PromNightClean]].<</if>><</if>> <<else>> <<if $PromDate == "Derek">> <<if $Easy lte 0>>I shouldn't have been surprised when he started unzipping and trying to guide my head down. I frowned and looked at him in surprise, shaking my head and continuing to entwine tongues as I entwined my fingers on his freed phallus. Pumping slowly, focused more on his pheromones and kissing him, it wasn't long before he broke the kiss, "Come on, <<print $Name>>," leaning back and making his intention clear. I didn't want to be a typical Prom Night notch, and it //infuriated// me that he was going to be so base with the fricking //Prom// //Queen// making out with him. So I shook my head, "Oh come //on//. Are you for real? You little ''cocktease''." My attraction for him turned right off. I scooted away, despite the need in my nethers. The car arrived at the party and we didn't say another word to each other. <<print $FName>> knew well enough not to ask where Derek was when she saw me. She and I danced the night away, much to the chagrin of her own date. What a [[good friend|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<<else>> I shouldn't have been surprised when he started unzipping and trying to guide my head down. And down I went, listening to him groaned as I moved awkwardly, trying to maintain the crown. His hand helped, pressing it down into my scalp as he forced me to go deeper. I gagged, he grunted and said, "Mhmm." Pulling up, he smiled down at me and then pressed back in making me gag again, repeating that with a massively pleased look on his face. <<if $HSBC gt 10>>I held it together and was held down as he began to cum, pumping his load into my throat while groaning out, "Good girl." Once finished, he guided me firmly to suck him dry before relieving me. Despite the soaked situation between my thighs, he chatted away pleasantly until we arrived at the party. We grabbed some drinks and he pulled me into the dining room -- a makeshift dance area -- and got back to the makeout session from before. My body was pleading. <<if $Suggestive + $Easy gte $Confident + $Sophisticated>>Luckily, it was only about one drink before, "Want to go find a room?" I nodded like a puppy that needed to go out. Without any romance, I led him by the leash of our entwined hands. I knew <<print $FName>>'s [[house well|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>>I surprised myself when about one drink in, he whispered to me, "Want to go find a room?" My body balked. I felt so used from earlier, I pulled away from him and he just smiled, shrugging it off and turning away with the barest of recognition. Thankfully, <<print $FName>> was there to be a shoulder to cry on. My makeup already a [[lost cause|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>>So, I vomited all over his nice, new tux. He smacked me and it shocked me, my diaphragm already hitting up at my guts, the extra pain came out of nowhere. I was frazzled. He was pissed. <<print $FName>> knew well enough not to ask where Derek was when she saw me. She and I danced the night away, much to the chagrin of her own date. What a [[good friend|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Seven">>Being Prom Queen would have been fun, but even more fun was heading to an after party with <<print $dates>> guys around you. It was extra crowded since there weren't really expectations for this many people to be traveling to <<print $FName>>'s. And that's when they started to get extra handsy, using other people as cover and blocked eyelines. <<if $Suggestible + $Risky gte $Stable + $Sophisticated>>A hand snaked up between my thighs. I shifted, looking around and trying to maintain normalcy as a finger sunk into me. A laugh to cover the gasp. I wanted to figure out which one of them it was, but I didn't want to give away what was happening. I might have been successful, I might not have been, but any chance of secrecy was gone as I started to cum right then and there. Still minutes away from the party, I was gasping and twitching slightly, hand grasping the wrist between my thighs as everyone in the vehicle got __quiet__. Except one, Aaron, who was chuckling at getting me off. Then awkwardness set in on everyone until we were able to disembark in front of the house. <<else>>A hand snaked up between my thighs. I shifted, looking around and trying to maintain normalcy as I batted the hand away, pulling at the wrist. Then I tumbled off one of their laps and dropped onto the floorboards amongst all the nice shoes, my dress up around my hips. "S-sorry, guys." I noticed that one of them, Aaron, did not look pleased. Everyone else was laughing though and none the wiser. We all disembarked in front of the house without any more shenanigans, but I was sans one of the guys. Aaron departed without even saying goodbye.<<set $dates -->><</if>> <<if $dates gt 1>>And there we were, inside, grabbing drinks and getting into the party. We danced much the same that we had at the gym, but they had less restraint because of the lack of chaperones and people judging them. I had less restraint because I was getting drunk and really fucking horny from how they were acting all night. I think they could tell my state of mind because after the first song, I was being brought off the dance floor down a hallway to find a room. All the work so far the evening had also left me exhausted. Wordlessly, [[easily complying|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<elseif $dates is 1>>Shit. Well, I still had one, the last, the loyal: Igor. Definitely the least good looking out of the bunch. We grabbed drinks and got to dancing. He was far less restrained given he had 'won', there were no chaperones, and no one to judge him or fight him. I was less restrained because I was reticent to lose my last date, and all the work of the evening had left me exhausted. I think he could sense my state of mind, because soon he was guiding me off the floor without a word, trying to find a room for us to [[go to|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Stephen">> As we rolled up to <<print $FName>>'s house, Stephen had a good clamp on my hand. I think a rainforest was growing. <<print $FName>> gave a surprised nod and eyebrow raise. The sentiment was shared by everyone else this evening. It had felt like all eyes were on us -- and not in the best way. I needed to make a decision about the rest of the night. Now. <div id = "stephen"> <<if $Easy gt $Sophisticated>>It didn't matter. There wasn't //that// much school left, no matter <<link "the result">><<replace "#stephen">>Clasped together, handcuffed, we walked in together. Another wash of amazed looks passed over us. I had thought that I was doing a good deed. Making an Underclassman's night. Little did I know exactly what that meant. He pulled me right to the dance floor -- the dining room rearranged. He pulled me much closer than at school, grinding hard on me. And I felt his hard on. The puppy from earlier was long gone and now I felt like prey, but I wasn't going to be some tease. I didn't lead people on. "Feel that?" He chuckled in my ear as he humped slowly against my thigh. I nodded and saw his grin, letting the porn he watched inform his next words, "Ready for it?" Fuck. My pussy was wet. Goddamn it, I hadn't even gotten a drink yet. He also wasn't waiting for my response, maybe he felt my heat and finally noticed what and where moisture was //supposed// to be. Feeling the stares in my back, he was walking me into the back of the house, on a [[new hunt|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> <<if $Suggestible gt $social>>It didn't matter. There wasn't //that// much school left, no matter <<link "the result">><<replace "#stephen">>Clasped together, handcuffed, we walked in together. Another wash of amazed looks passed over us. I had thought that I was doing a good deed. Making an Underclassman's night. Little did I know exactly what that meant. He pulled me right to the dance floor -- the dining room rearranged. He pulled me much closer than at school, grinding hard on me. And I felt his hard on. The puppy from earlier was long gone and now I felt like prey, but I wasn't going to be some tease. I didn't lead people on. "Feel that?" He chuckled in my ear as he humped slowly against my thigh. I nodded and saw his grin, letting the porn he watched inform his next words, "Ready for it?" Fuck. My pussy was wet. Goddamn it, I hadn't even gotten a drink yet. He also wasn't waiting for my response, maybe he felt my heat and finally noticed what and where moisture was //supposed// to be. Feeling the stares in my back, he was walking me into the back of the house, on a [[new hunt|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <</replace>><</link>>.<</if>> Even with the tail-end of school on the horizon, I couldn't kill my social standing over this. The girls had gotten their joke in and I needed to get <<link "out">><<replace "#stephen">>Slowly, I pried my fingers from his on the walk to the front door, "What are you doing?" He had noticed. I wasn't hiding my intentions well enough. "Uh, Steve--" "It's //Stephen//." We had pulled to a stop behind the others. Thankfully they didn't stay an audience. "Right, sorry. Look, tonight's been really fun--" "Right, we're having a great time. Let's go." He pulled at me. I strained back. "I don't get this hot-cold shit, but I'll see you inside." He pulled free, glowering, and went in. Alone in the cool air, I chewed my lower lip, contemplating my options. If I went in, between knowing myself, seeing his reaction, and knowing...people...my identity would be destroyed. So, I [[left|HS008 - PromNightClean]]. <</replace>><</link>>.</div> <<elseif $PromDate == "Absame">> He denied a drink as soon as he noticed the scent of shitty vodka. So, I pounded one as politely as I could without upsetting him and we resumed our dancing on the dance floor -- space made in her dining room. The dancing was different this time around, closer, more physical, with an animalistic and growing passion. "I am sorry, <<print $Name>>, I really must be going home." He was breathing hard, he was hard. I lifted up, pressing my body to him in response and kissing him for the first time this evening. My tongue tentatively probed at his lips and he accepted it. He pulled me closer as we began to make out in front of everyone, feeling his heartbeat in his chest against mine and his cock against my thigh. "Come on." I smiled after a few moments, fingers entwining with his, "Let's get you on your way home." I don't think he understood the American idiom and play on words, but he understood the subtext, clearing his throat uncomfortably as I led him through the oft-walked hallway of <<print $FName>>'s home. I found a suitable side room and [[guided him inside|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Miguel">> We rolled up to <<print $FName>>'s house and headed to get some party punch together. And that's when my heart dropped. Somehow, Ava -- probably motivated by her win, burgeoning with pride -- was already there. She had forgone her own party, her //own// victory party to sip punch here. Behind enemy lines. She smiled at Miguel as we approached. Despite my best efforts to corral him, Ava found her way to interpose herself. And there they were, laughing while I stood by, watching. I felt like Joe, just a few feet away who was sipping his punch, just like I was. Shit. I had to move, and //now// to distract him again. My hand clasped into his, trying to physically pull him away and remind him of my presence. A flick of his wrist, he didn't even look back. "Nah, pollo caliente. Nada para me? Nada para ti." Ava nyah-nyah'd over her shoulder as they walked away. I hadn't seen that in ages. Suited her well. <<print $FName>> sighed and clutched me to her, "Sorry bae, come dance." And we did. Until later when she came racing back to me from a bathroom break. Tearfully dragging me down the hallway, I saw Joe leaning against the wall near her room. There was a thong hanging from the doorknob. She flung it aside, twisting and tugging at the handle. "Uh. Occupied." Joe tried to stave her off. "Her. Room, cuck-o." I was infuriated for her, all of tonight's miseries coming to a head together. Joe didn't fight me, but the door didn't open. <<print $FName>> pounded on the door, we both screamed obscenities at Ava as we heard Miguel grunting and her squealing. We didn't get back into the room. <<print $FName>> and I curled up together on a couch and I comforted her, which comforted me. It was a [[shitty-ass Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Chad">> I could tell he was getting worked up and it was making some of the other girls uncomfortable. His presence usually did, and tonight they were getting it in spades. They scattered when we arrived at <<print $FName>>'s, "Drink?" He grinned dumbly, pulling me towards the punch, "Here hold mine." A sloshing red beverage as he turned back to get mine. "It's really loud here." He motioned to the invisible throbbing of music as I took my first sip. I knew what he meant. <<if $Suggestible lt 0 || $MaleReaction lt 1>>"Yeah, isn't the music great!" I leaned in, giving another tease of contact, my hand going for his and tugging him towards the dining room where a dance floor had been mocked up. He rolled his eyes but compliantly followed me out. We continued dancing, more handsy than during Prom and my dress was constantly being tugged up to show my ass. I let him, he grinned, quickly pounding his drink and nodding for me to follow suit. I don't know who made the punch or if it was just he was well-practiced drinking, "Hey, I gotta slow down..." I whispered to him, giving him a peck on his cheek as I dropped back down. Did I mean to kiss him? "No worries...here..." And with my dress up around my hips, hand on my asscheek, he guided me away from the dance floor, my head [[leaning on his arm|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<else>>This had been on his brain since he asked me to Prom, probably, and he'd been patient. "Yeah, it is." I smiled, he smiled as I turned, his hand immediately giving my ass a firm smack. His fingers dug in as we weaved through the crowd, sipping our drinks and moving to the back hallway. I knew <<print $FName>>'s house quite well and found an empty guest room. I mean, the party had [[barely started|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">> I distracted myself with the others on the ride over, as did he. There were moments our fingers touched, but not further. It was a relief when we arrived and there were so many people. And drinks. We rushed to grab some party punch and began chugging, if just to shut off our anxiety. "Didn't think Prom could actually be fun." A reproached look on his face as he looked around. I elbowed him, "And I had to //drag// you here." "Kicking and screaming." He smiled. There it was. The old banter. How we always were. And so it went. <<if $Stable gt 0>>Easy banter, some dancing and hanging out with friends. I think we were both glad to have navigated that awkwardness. It was a night [[to remember|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>Drinking made things easier, so we drank more. Touched more. <<print $FName>> suddenly wasn't around and I knew what that hint was. Or at least my party-brain did. I leaned in and we started [[making out|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">> As I guided Joe against me for the umpteenth time, my mind wandered -- nabbing Ava's boyfriend been a crucial salve to Ava being Prom Queen. Yet he was definitely distracted, mind off elswhere. Sigh. Something about this felt incredibly underwhelming. His hands slid from where I had put them, behind me back to the front of my hips. At least he wasn't looking for her. I hadn't been consoled once by anyone, not even <<print $FName>>. She knew the importance of tonight, and here I was, practically bored. <<if $Easy gt 3 || $spoiled == true>>I pounded my cup, wanting my buzz to be in over gear as I took reluctant Joe by the hand again, "It's loud in here...want to go someplace quieter?" "Uh, sure. Yeah." He nodded as I maneuvered him through the crowd that wouldn't make eye contact, meandering towards the bedrooms. I knew her [[house well|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>> My buzz was fading fast, I looked into the cup at the red juice, the artificial blend of vodka and sugar distasteful on my tongue. I shook my head and stepped back from Joe, "Hey, I'm just not feeling it." He nodded. He //nodded//. Was there anything he fought? Did he have personal stakes at all? Ava could have him. I pounded my cup, forcing the shitty punch down as I tried to find my friend. But she had disappeared with her own date. Looking around for friendly eyes, I found none. And Joe was texting. I had to save face. I ducked out as quick [[as I could|HS008 - PromNightClean]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Harden">> By the time we arrived, no one cared anymore, even him, so I just kept my hand on his cock, playing with him slowly through his pants. The other couples, especially the girls, acted like literally nothing was happening -- though the guys were more interested in vicarious enjoyment. Harden had gotten over himself as well and his hand was between my thighs, finger pushing in and out slowly from my clutch. And so we sat there, in the backseat casually petting on each other. It was no surprise that we didn't bother with stopping off for a dance or a drink when we got to <<print $FName>>'s house. She smacked me firmly on my ass, ensuring I went right down the hallway. None of the rooms were claimed, the party had just begun, so we began clawing our clothes off of each other as we went down the hallway. My dress crumpling on the carpet, his jacket, then his shirt, like a trail to the nearest bedroom. I have no clue how many people saw us getting naked, nor what went on with our clothes in the meantime: we were on [[a mission|HS008 - PromNightSex]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Stag">> As I guided Joe against me for the umpteenth time, my mind wandered. His was too. He was definitely distracted, mind off elswhere. Sigh. Something about this felt incredibly underwhelming. His hands slid from where I had put them, behind me back to the front of my hips. At least he wasn't looking for her. I hadn't been consoled once by anyone, not even <<print $FName>>. She knew the importance of tonight, and here I was, practically bored. <<if $Easy gt 3 || $spoiled == true>>I pounded my cup, wanting my buzz to be in over gear as I took reluctant Joe by the hand again, "It's loud in here...want to go someplace quieter?" "Uh, sure. Yeah." He nodded as I maneuvered him through the crowd that wouldn't make eye contact, meandering towards the bedrooms. I knew her [[house well|HS008 - PromNightSex]].<<else>> My buzz was fading fast, I looked into the cup at the red juice, the artificial blend of vodka and sugar distasteful on my tongue. I shook my head and stepped back from Joe, "Hey, I'm just not feeling it." He nodded. He //nodded//. Was there anything he fought? Did he have personal stakes at all? Ava could have him. I pounded my cup, forcing the shitty punch down as I tried to find my friend. But she had disappeared with her own date. Looking around for friendly eyes, I found none. And Joe was texting. I had to save face. I ducked out as quick [[as I could|HS008 - PromNightClean]].<</if>><</if>><</if>><<if $PromDate == "Derek">><<set $Bodies.push("Derek, my Prom date")>>The craving inside me was maddening. I needed his beautiful cock ''now''. I figured that <<print $FName>>'s room would be the last taken, so I made a bee-line for it, ignoring the other doorways and trying the knob as I practically dragged Joe along. Unoccupied. Score. He was chuckling the entire way, clearly loving the affect he had on me. On women. I <<if $Undies !== "Commando">>removed my <<link "underwear">><<panties>><</link>> and tugged it over the outer knob before shutting the door.<<else>>-- no underwear or socks of my own -- grabbed a sock from her drawer and put it on the knob before shutting the door.<</if>> Another chuckle. "Yuck it up, buddy. Time to fuck me up." "Sure." And he yanked me firmly over to the bed, shoving me back and forcefully digging his hips between my thighs, making them open. One hand pulling my dress up, the other firmly on my throat. Spreading my thighs and lifting my heels, this felt very instinctive and my body clicked on. He unzipped. <<if $fertile == 0>>His cock went in so easily, sheathing within me in a single thrust. His hips collided with my crotch and he shifted his weight over me, leaning onto the hand on my throat. I couldn't really breathe but I could watch him, looking between my thighs as he began to ram my pussy. God he looked hot. And thank god for being able to cum as well -- he certainly wasn't focused on me beyond my pussy -- between how pent up I was, that he had already cummed once, and his looks, I orgasmed right as he crammed inside me, pumping his second load. I gasped out as I was coming down, his hand finally off my neck. I heard the familiar sound of his zipper as he stood, eyeing my pussy that hadn't yet revealed his deposit. "Thanks, <<print $Name>>" Blood rushing to my brain and my body shuddering, I nodded, but the door had shut. Exhausted and relieved, I just rolled over, passing out in my mussed state, waking up to <<print $FName>> cuddled up on me in [[the morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]], a sore throat and a sticky pussy. <<else>>"Wait, you got--" His cock went in so easily, sheathing within me in a single thrust. His hips collided with my crotch and he shifted his weight over me, leaning onto the hand on my throat, "Shh." Now, I couldn't talk, let alone really breathe but I could watch him, looking between my thighs as he began to ram my pussy. God he looked hot. And thank god for being able to cum as well -- he certainly wasn't focused on me beyond my pussy -- between how pent up I was, that he had already cummed once, and his looks, I orgasmed right as he crammed inside me, pumping his second load. I gasped out as I was coming down, his hand finally off my neck. I heard the familiar sound of his zipper as he stood, eyeing my pussy that hadn't yet revealed his deposit. "Thanks, <<print $Name>>" Blood rushing to my brain and my body shuddering, I nodded, but the door had shut. Exhausted and relieved, I just rolled over, passing out in my mussed state, waking up to <<print $FName>> cuddled up on me in [[the morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]], a sore throat and a sticky pussy. Fuck. Asshole.<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Seven">><<if $dates lte ($Stable + $Sophisticated + $discipline + $athletics - $Easy - $Suggestible - $Risky - $Excitable)>>Before we made it too far down the hall, some reserve inside me, or just reservation, surged up and I pulled myself free. "Uh, n-no. Yeah, not...nuh-uh." Shaking my head and waving them away. Sometimes numbers mean something is more likely to happen. Sometimes less. This was the latter. But I also didn't want to stick around and let them 'unionize'. I left as quickly as I could, searching for guys more in line with [[my sensibilities|HS008 - PromNightClean]]. <<else>><<if $dates == 1>>Not my choice for a partner, but my partner all the same. And lest I lose everyone, I was going to let him get pussy tonight. Once we were out of sight of the 'dance floor,' I relaxed a bit and just went with it. I giggled and gave him a pull back on his leading hand, "I know <<print $FName>>'s house a touch better than you...here." I went to try a knob but I saw the flash in his eyes grow brighter. "Where's ''her'' room?" Not sure that she'd be very happy about this, "Uh, right...here." We stepped into her sanctum, the party had barely started so almost none of the rooms had been claimed and her's was being respected the longest. He shut the door firmly and started undoing his pants, giving a head motion for me to get on my knees. He really was living out his only reference: porn. I dropped down, moving over to him, fingertips working his pants down as his cock swung free and smacked me across the face. He //grinned//. I began to lick and suck, hands slowly working his pants down while I used my mouth. His head flung back, hitting the door and his hands clasped hard at my head in surprise. Was this his first blowjob? Head firmly held he began to thrust, and I had barely begun. His eyes dropping to watch his cock pumping my mouth and then he shoved firmly in, grunting and fingers __digging__ into my skull. My fingers grasped at his thighs, trying to fight the gag as all of a sudden he was in my throat and pumping his load down it. He shuddered, the sweaty stink of his crotch seeping into my nose while his cock pulsed and pumped. Luckily, I didn't taste much. He finished and I gasped out for breath, pulling away. I wiped my mouth again and laughed, surprised at how quick that was, "Don't you fucking laugh at me." He glared. "I wasn't..." I wiped my mascara tears, grunting in surprise as he pulled me up and over to the bed. I was confused. "You've been edging me all night, that's all. Now, get that dress off." I wasn't confused. I unzipped, he pulled and my dress came off, he sat down on the edge of the bed and kicked his pants off and nodded back down in front of him. Just in my heels, I got back in position, "Get me hard again." He unbuttoned his shirt and worked the rest of his tux off as I slowly bobbed, sucking firmly to tease his spent cock to rigidity. I heard my name at the door, sounded like <<print $FName>>, "She's busy. Close the door." Came his response while his hand kept my head from turning, gripping at my hair. "You're good at that." He smiled down at me and soon enough he was hard. Dragged up onto the bed, he reached over to withdraw a rope of condoms. He had come prepared. He wrapped himself in the first one and did his best impression of a porn star, pounding between my legs about as unromantically as I've ever seen. A couple hours later, I'm sure the party was wrapping up finally, I had been sucking his condom and cum tasting cock hard and then getting fucked again, my pussy was raw, and each time he was taking longer and ramming it in harder to try to get off. He looked very impressed with his stamina. "Busy. Out!" He yelled at the door again, I think it was <<print $FName>> trying to go to bed. He certainly spent himself and nearly got through the condoms he brought. Despite how sore I was, I managed to extricate myself from his naked, sweaty body in the morning, coated in juices, sweat and his oily sweat. I [[snuck out|HS009 - HomeVign3]], passing <<print $FName>> on the couch, thankfully asleep. <<elseif $dates gte 2>>Oh this was going to be crazy. The dance floor at Prom was only a precursor, a preview of what was to come. I hadn't realized it at the time, but I was realizing it as we moved into a large office. The dress was being pulled off of me, I was being moved over to the couch. My exhaustion, my horniness, their insistence and attitudes, I just went with it. Worn down //and// prepared. One of them, Aaron, was on top of me mere moments after the door shut. <<if $fertile == 1>>"Condom...you guys have condoms on you, right?" Aaron looked up at the other guys as he pushes the head of his cock up and down my wet cleft. "Eh...not enough for all of us." Igor shrugged after a quick count. "Especially after the first round. You not on the pill?" chuckled Aaron as he pushed inside now that he'd been given enough of a go-ahead from the guys. I shook my head as my legs kipped up in response to the penetration, "No." "I've got pullout game, don't worry." There was kindness in his voice, or that might have been reaction to being inside me. He did. Thankfully, gasping out as cum sprayed up <<if $Pubes !== "bald">>into my pubic hair<<else>>across my mound and lower tummy<</if>>. I could tell they were trying, but after the first of them pumped a load inside me accidentally, there was a lot less trying going on. And once they saw me come to terms with the risk being risked, they asked but knew I'd say sure. Hours passed, one on me, otherwise jerking off and watching, getting themselves ready for another go. My pussy was so sore, so sticky and so full of cum. Eventually, I felt the energy leaving them as well and I was able to curl up on the couch and pass out, needing to recover. I woke in the morning, sore, still exhausted, sticking to myself and the couch. Shit, the couch. <<print $FName>> would be pissed with me. None of the guys were there. I sighed and passed out again, being woken up by a concerned, then very concerned <<print $FName>> when she saw my state. "<<print $Name>>! You okay?" I nodded and smiled, letting her help collect me and get me presentable. "Yeah, just too many dates." She wasn't too upset. She's a [[great friend|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>Aaron pressed the head of his cock up and down my wet cleft. "You on the pill?" I nodded, "Yeah." "Good," chuckled Aaron as he pushed inside now that he'd been given enough of a go-ahead. My legs kipped up in response to the penetration, "F-fuck." "Oh, don't worry about that." There was kindness in his voice, or that might have been reaction to being inside me. Hours passed, one ontop of me, otherwise, jerking off and watching, getting themselves ready for another go. My pussy was so sore, so sticky and so full of cum. Eventually, I felt the energy leaving them as well and I was able to curl up on the couch and pass out, needing to recover. I woke in the morning, sore, still exhausted, sticking to myself and the couch. Shit, the couch. <<print $FName>> would be pissed with me. None of the guys were there. I sighed and passed out again, being woken up by a concerned, then very concerned <<print $FName>> when she saw my state. "<<print $Name>>! You okay?" I nodded and smiled, letting her help collect me and get me presentable. "Yeah, just too many dates." Seeing caked cum on me, she knew to bring me to the pharmacy. She's a [[great friend|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<set $Bodies.push("Igor, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><<if $dates gte 2>><<set $Bodies.push("Anthony, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><</if>><<if $dates gte 3>><<set $Bodies.push("Jack, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><</if>><<if $dates gte 4>><<set $Bodies.push("Logan, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><</if>><<if $dates gte 5>><<set $Bodies.push("Mason, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><</if>><<if $dates gte 6>><<set $Bodies.push("Oliver, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><</if>><<if $dates == 7>><<set $Bodies.push("Noah, one of my seven Prom Dates")>><</if>><</if>><</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Stephen">><<set $Bodies.push("Stephen, my Underclassman Prom date")>> Once we were out of sight of the 'dance floor,' I relaxed a bit and just went with it. I giggled and gave him a pull back on his leading hand, "I know <<print $FName>>'s house a touch better than you...here." I went to try a knob but I saw the flash in his eyes grow brighter. "Where's ''her'' room?" Not sure that she'd be very happy about this, "Uh, right...here." We stepped into her sanctum, the party had barely started so almost none of the rooms had been claimed and her's was being respected the longest. He shut the door firmly and started undoing his pants, giving a head motion for me to get on my knees. He really was living out his only reference: porn. I dropped down, moving over to him, fingertips working his pants down as his cock swung free and smacked me across the face. He //grinned//. I began to lick and suck, hands slowly working his pants down while I used my mouth. His head flung back, hitting the door and his hands clasped hard at my head in surprise. Was this his first blowjob? Head firmly held he began to thrust, and I had barely begun. His eyes dropping to watch his cock pumping my mouth and then he shoved firmly in, grunting and fingers __digging__ into my skull. My fingers grasped at his thighs, trying to fight the gag as all of a sudden he was in my throat and pumping his load down it. He shuddered, the sweaty stink of his crotch seeping into my nose while his cock pulsed and pumped. Luckily, I didn't taste much. He finished and I gasped out for breath, pulling away. I wiped my mouth again and laughed, surprised at how quick that was, "Don't you fucking laugh at me." He glared. "I wasn't..." I wiped my mascara tears, grunting in surprise as he pulled me up and over to the bed. I was confused. "You've been edging me all night, that's all. Now, get that dress off." I wasn't confused. I unzipped, he pulled and my dress came off, he sat down on the edge of the bed and kicked his pants off and nodded back down in front of him. Just in my heels, I got back in position, "Get me hard again." He unbuttoned his shirt and worked the rest of his tux off as I slowly bobbed, sucking firmly to tease his spent cock to rigidity. I heard my name at the door, sounded like <<print $FName>>, "She's busy. Close the door." Came his response while his hand kept my head from turning, gripping at my hair. "You're good at that." He smiled down at me and soon enough he was hard. Dragged up onto the bed, he reached over to withdraw a rope of condoms. He had come prepared. He wrapped himself in the first one and did his best impression of a porn star, pounding between my legs about as unromantically as I've ever seen. A couple hours later, I'm sure the party was wrapping up finally, I had been sucking his condom and cum tasting cock hard and then getting fucked again, my pussy was raw, and each time he was taking longer and ramming it in harder to try to get off. He looked very impressed with his stamina. "Busy. Out!" He yelled at the door again, I think it was <<print $FName>> trying to go to bed. He certainly spent himself and nearly got through the condoms he brought. Despite how sore I was, I managed to extricate myself from his naked, sweaty body in the morning, coated in juices, sweat and his oily sweat. I [[snuck out|HS009 - HomeVign3]], passing <<print $FName>> on the couch, thankfully asleep. <<elseif $PromDate == "Absame">><<set $Bodies.push("Absame, my Prom date")>> "So we should be...quick?" curious, my heel shifting the door closed behind me, my hands working down the zipper on my dress. "<<print $Name>>, I don't want to dis...oh..." I was stepping out of the dress, finding my way naked and finding out way towards a couch in her father's office. "Our first time...should not be quick." His eyes were on my bare flesh. <<if $virgin == false>>I shrugged nonchalant, "Doesn't matter to me." Though it did make me feel good at hearing 'first'. Not a one-night stand guy. I began working his clothes off. "Oh, is this not your first time?" The shock hit me as his cock swung free. An ebony, fat pillar, uncut and not especially long, but massively far around. It was Absame's first time? Shit. "Oh. Uh, no. But, don't worry about it. Best for us both not to be." I played it off, especially since I couldn't keep from looking at his pulsing meat, despite the density it was sticking up impressively straight over his low-hanging and hefty testicles.<br><br><<else>>"It's okay. First time's just a practice round, right? And what better night than tonight to lose ours? Oh. Wow. That's going to //hurt//." The shock hit me as his cock swung free. An ebony, fat pillar, uncut and not especially long, but massively far around. "Okay, <<print $Name>>." I couldn't keep from looking at his pulsing meat, despite the density it was sticking up impressively straight over his low-hanging and hefty testicles.<</if>>"I hate to annoy you, but one more thing. I wasn't expecting this, so I...am unprepared." He coughed uncomfortably, his hand on my thigh. He wasn't even touching himself and he was still stiffer than steel. <<if $fertile == 1>><<if $Stable gt 1 || $discipline gt 1>>"Got you covered. Lay back." And he did as I walked over to get the condom out of my clutch. Thank god for pre-planning. I returned and worked the condom over his shaft, it was incredibly difficult since I didn't carry Magnums and his girth was straining the limits of the latex. I knew he was concerned about time so we skipped the foreplay, "Lay back." I moved over him, leaving my heels on. His eyes stared between us as I grabbed the shaft -- //Christ// now that I had my hand on it, how it appeared didn't prepare me for how it felt. I worked the uncut head back and forth along my cleft, letting his precum lubricate me, spitting in my other hand and stroking it along his massive width. He groaned. I grinned, feeling his cock stiffen in reaction even harder. I pressed down, wincing and gasping, "You okay?" He nudged up my chin. I nodded and pushed his hand away. The condom was __not__ helping. Should have brought lube. "Shh. Sokay. Look, it's going to take a while to get you in...carefully. So..." I fought with the pain center in my brain as I considered what I was asking him to do. I guided his hands to my hips and made sure the head was pinned right at my opening. "Put it in." My breath caught in my throat. His hands tightened on my hips and he flexed his hips, I felt the pressure of the giant black head pushing my labia in with it, but it wasn't going. He checked in with me quickly and I gave a quick nod and he flexed harder, eyes now stuck between my thighs. I tensed, holding still. Flex. //Flex//. ''Flex'' It was slightly pressing in and it hurt like fuck. Then feeling purchase, his hands tightened on my hips and pulled down sharply while his hips shoved up hard. Screaming out, head flicking back, hands clutching awkwardly at the couch and his stomach, I think the only reason he didn't notice or care was he was grunting hard as he felt hot and soft pussy pushing over his cock. His first pussy. A pussy and cock not built for each other. As I felt split open he was leaning up, mouth clasping to my breast, hands moving to my ass as he fully hilted inside me. My hands grasped at his back, he was immediately fucking me, clearly overwhelmed and ecstatic. His massive and spongy cockhead was banging right at my cervix as he rammed firmly and quick, an inch or two as he stayed ballsdeep in me. We did manage to be quick, his fingers digging in hard to my ass as he was unloading. Every muscular flex, every swell, every pulse -- I felt it. "Thank you, <<print $Name>>." My pussy was screaming at me but hearing my name in his accent made it better. "Welcome." I laughed, feeling a sharp pain as my muscles twitched, still speared on him. I leaned back, gasping as I was pulling myself off of him and dismounting at once, feeling like his meat was pulling me out from the inside. "Oh shit." He never cursed, and I knew why, instantly. His cock had ruined the condom probably instantly and he had blown his load inside me, it was oozing onto the couch, his crotch and my ass from my gaped pussy. "Fuck, fuck, fuck." I scrambled, dripping and dripping as I ran over to grab some tissues, stuffing a wad between my thighs as I waddled back and worked to clean him and the couch off. <<print $FName>> would //kill// me. And I had gotten inseminated -- ''I'' would kill me. I could see him in post-nut clarity and his need to fuck and run. Especially now. "Sorry. You okay? I need to go. I'm sorry." They came out as quickly as his cum was. I nodded, and watched him put his tux on, looking at me and deciding what he should do, if anything. A clock behind me reminded him again and he moved over, quickly gave me a kiss and headed out, flicking the ruined condom into a waste bin on his way out...without a tissue. //Fuck//. "See you at school." I didn't think I could dance, so I curled up on the couch, sleeping with a hand and huge wad of tissue clutched between my thighs. I'd need to head out absolutely __first__ thing in the [[morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>> "Shit. Okay. Um, I'm not on...anything, so..." I leaned in, about to give him head. He shook his own head and firmly pushed me away. "I understand, but I need to go." I felt crushed. Rejected. Destroyed. <<if $MaleAttention gt 1 && $Risky gt 2>>I quickly mounted anyway, "Uh, are you...certain?" I nodded, not certain, but I wasn't going to let that be that. "Just, warn me before you cum. Okay?" He nodded, eyes dropping down as he sensed the feeling of my pussy against his cock -- //Christ// now that I had my hand on it, how it appeared didn't prepare me for how it felt. I worked the uncut head back and forth along my cleft, letting his precum lubricate me, spitting in my other hand and stroking it along his massive width. He groaned. I grinned, feeling his cock stiffen in reaction even harder. I pressed down, wincing and gasping, "You okay?" He nudged up my chin. I nodded and pushed his hand away. "Shh. Sokay. Look, it's going to take a while to get you in...carefully. So..." I fought with the pain center in my brain as I considered what I was asking him to do. I guided his hands to my hips and made sure the head was pinned right at my opening. "Put it in." My breath caught in my throat. His hands tightened on my hips and he flexed his hips, I felt the pressure of the giant black head pushing my labia in with it, but it wasn't going. He checked in with me quickly and I gave a quick nod and he flexed harder, eyes now stuck between my thighs. I tensed, holding still. Flex. //Flex//. ''Flex'' It was slightly pressing in and it hurt like fuck. Then feeling purchase, his hands tightened on my hips and pulled down sharply while his hips shoved up hard. Screaming out, head flicking back, hands clutching awkwardly at the couch and his stomach, I think the only reason he didn't notice or care was he was grunting hard as he felt my unprotected, hot and soft pussy pushing over his cock. His first pussy. A pussy and cock not built for each other. As I felt split open he was leaning up, mouth clasping to my breast, hands moving to my ass as he fully hilted inside me. My hands grasped at his back, he was immediately fucking me, clearly overwhelmed and ecstatic. His massive and spongy cockhead was banging right at my cervix as he rammed firmly and quick, an inch or two as he stayed ballsdeep in me. "<<print $Name>>. Going. To. Cum." Between each thrust. His fingers digging in hard to my ass and his needy thrusting, coupled with feeling his cock just a battering ram at my cervix, I couldn't react fact enough. Hell, I don't know what I was supposed to do. Or what I was thinking. Fuck. He was unloading inside me, his hot thick load spewing into my center. Every muscular flex, every swell, every pulse -- I felt it. "Thank you, <<print $Name>>." My pussy was screaming at me but hearing my name in his accent made this better, somehow. "Kay, um, this is going to be messy. We need to be careful and not get any on the couch." I was //freaking// but trying to keep it together. Not his fault. Too late now. He nodded, looking to me for guidance as he pulsed, happy to stay in me but I could see him in post-nut clarity and his need to fuck and run. I leaned down to grab his underwear and he pulled me back, "No. She'll know." He lifted me up, carrying me from the couch and I was thankful for the strength. We found a tissue box and grabbed a handful, both of us holding them down between my thighs and I felt how widely he had spread my mound. Without telling him to, he pulled suddenly from me, making me gasp and he was dropping me down. My legs weak, I dropped in front of him, luckily able to keep my wad of tissues between my leg as they quickly soaked. His cock swayed shiny and oozing in front of my face, "Sorry. You okay? I need to go. I'm sorry." They came out as quickly as his cum was. I nodded, and watched him put his tux on, looking at me and deciding what he should do, if anything. A clock behind me reminded him again and he moved over, quickly gave me a kiss and headed out, "See you at school." I didn't think I could dance, so I curled up on the couch, sleeping with a hand and huge wad of tissue clutched between my thighs. I'd need to head out absolutely __first__ thing in the [[morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<<else>> I sat there, <<if $spoiled == true>>rage bubbling up within me. "Run back to mommy, fucking virgin." I wasn't going to let that ruin my night, so I got dressed and headed back to the party. I let them all think what they wanted. Absame [[never spoke to me again|HS009 - HomeVign3]], though. <<else>>tears welling in my eyes. I watched him leave, glad I hadn't risked it, but also feeling alone and sad. I wasn't going to let that ruin my night, so I got dressed and headed back to the party. I let them all think what they wanted. Eventually, I was able to coax Absame back and [[came prepared|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <</if>><</if>><</if>><<else>> <<if $virgin == false>>"No need. I'm clean, I'm sure you are."<<else>>"We're both clean, duh." With a playful eyeroll.<</if>> I knew he was concerned about time so we skipped the foreplay, "Lay back." I moved over him, leaving my heels on. His eyes stared between us as I grabbed the shaft -- //Christ// now that I had my hand on it, how it appeared didn't prepare me for how it felt. I worked the uncut head back and forth along my cleft, letting his precum lubricate me, spitting in my other hand and stroking it along his massive width. He groaned. I grinned, feeling his cock stiffen in reaction even harder. I pressed down, wincing and gasping, "You okay?" He nudged up my chin. I nodded and pushed his hand away. "Shh. Sokay. Look, it's going to take a while to get you in...carefully. So..." I fought with the pain center in my brain as I considered what I was asking him to do. I guided his hands to my hips and made sure the head was pinned right at my opening. "Put it in." My breath caught in my throat. His hands tightened on my hips and he flexed his hips, I felt the pressure of the giant black head pushing my labia in with it, but it wasn't going. He checked in with me quickly and I gave a quick nod and he flexed harder, eyes now stuck between my thighs. I tensed, holding still. Flex. //Flex//. ''Flex'' It was slightly pressing in and it hurt like fuck. Then feeling purchase, his hands tightened on my hips and pulled down sharply while his hips shoved up hard. Screaming out, head flicking back, hands clutching awkwardly at the couch and his stomach, I think the only reason he didn't notice or care was he was grunting hard as he felt my unprotected, hot and soft pussy pushing over his cock. His first pussy. A pussy and cock not built for each other. As I felt split open he was leaning up, mouth clasping to my breast, hands moving to my ass as he fully hilted inside me. My hands grasped at his back, he was immediately fucking me, clearly overwhelmed and ecstatic. His massive and spongy cockhead was banging right at my cervix as he rammed firmly and quick, an inch or two as he stayed ballsdeep in me. We did manage to be quick, his fingers digging in hard to my ass as he was unloading inside me, his hot thick load spewing into my center. Every muscular flex, every swell, every pulse -- I felt it. "Thank you, <<print $Name>>." My pussy was screaming at me but hearing my name in his accent made it better. "Kay, um, this is going to be messy. We need to be careful and not get any on the couch." He nodded, looking to me for guidance as he pulsed, happy to stay in me but I could see him in post-nut clarity and his need to fuck and run. I leaned down to grab his underwear and he pulled me back, "No. She'll know." He lifted me up, carrying me from the couch and I was thankful for the strength. We found a tissue box and grabbed a handful, both of us holding them down between my thighs and I felt how widely he had spread my mound. Without telling him to, he pulled suddenly from me, making me gasp and he was dropping me down. My legs weak, I dropped in front of him, luckily able to keep my wad of tissues between my leg as they quickly soaked. His cock swayed shiny and oozing in front of my face, "Sorry. You okay? I need to go. I'm sorry." They came out as quickly as his cum was. I nodded, and watched him put his tux on, looking at me and deciding what he should do, if anything. A clock behind me reminded him again and he moved over, quickly gave me a kiss and headed out, "See you at school." I didn't think I could dance, so I curled up on the couch, sleeping with a hand and huge wad of tissue clutched between my thighs [[until morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Miguel">><<set $Bodies.push("Miguel, my Prom date")>> I giggled playfully as we headed outside, ducking through the doors as soon as Principal Mark turned away. He wasn't giggling, wasn't even laughing. I pulled and laughed playfully, trying to encourage him to join in. His eyes were scanning instead. "Here's good." He pulled back, towards a nearby picnic table. It was within sight of the gym and literally the first place that //could// work. <<if $Risky gt 2>>Shaking my head in disbelief, I bit my lower lip and felt the sharp edge of the bench and table digging in at my back and ass as he worked my dress up. I looked around nervously, my brain locked in on the doors to the gym, willing them to stay shut. Then he spun me around, my hands pressing against the graffiti'd table before he could shove my face against it. <<if $fertile == 1>>My hands grasped at his cock before he could get it in me, "Got a condom?" I looked back over my shoulder, seeing the frustration reaching a boiling point. "You don't? Sounds like a //you// problem." He tried to move my hand away. "I'm not getting knocked up at ''Prom''." I glared. "Lucky for you, we've got another option." His hand on my wrist, he pulled the head to my asshole. This was __not__ how I envisioned losing my anal virginity, but I also was not in any mood to get raped and Miguel seemed verging in the area where that might happen. I let go and felt him push, gasping and trying to brace in my heels and against the worn planks of the table top. He grunted, spitting down and hitting my cheeks and between them a couple times, rubbing and then pushing hard again. I tried to relax. Then it went in, he grunted loudly and I yelped like a stuck pig. I felt like he was pushing me into myself. His hands grasping tightly at my bare hips as he began firm, slow thrusts, bucking me forward, feeling the sharp ping of pleasure as his heavy balls whacked against my clit. Everything else down there felt like it was on fire, but I gritted my teeth and pressed my toes into my shoes. <<if $Tits !== "small">>My tits popped out of the top of my dress as he rammed me.<</if>> He was pushing my guts around, literally, with his rock hard cock. The smacking of our skin and the noises seeming far too loud in the open-air of the night. I couldn't see, was anyone seeing this? I couldn't //see//. Then he shoved forward with finality and I felt heat growing inside me as he unloaded into my colon. I panted as he pulled at my hips, releasing his need inside me. Wordlessly, he reached over and grabbed a handful of napkins -- left over from lunch today -- tugged one of my hands back, transferring them to me as he began to withdraw. Had he seen those before he was fucking me? While? Turning, I sat on the edge of a bench, embarrassment rising as I wasn't sure how this was all going to turn out. He had turned, grabbing the rest of the napkins and began to clean himself off with some additional saliva. He was practiced at this. "Heh that was new." I tried to engage with him. "Huh, really? Well, glad to have opened a whole new world to you. Good for you to get used to if you're not going to get on the pill." He tugged and dried off his hanging cock. Zipped up. Fixed his belt and shirt. "See you back in there?" I smiled, feeling the tissue soaking in my hand, I wondered if he noticed the gag reflex. "Yeah." He nodded and smiled, walking back inside. Later, trying to walk in as normally as possible, I saw him chatting up Ava. A very short-lived win for me, apparently. Dancing and enjoying myself as much as I could with <<print $FName>> I saw them pairing off, Joe -- her boyfriend -- not seeming to mind as they made out beside him, or when Miguel went to the after party with them. I heard he stood outside the door as Miguel fucked her [[all night|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>He pushed. I gasped, trying to brace in my heels and against the metal lockers on either side of me. He grunted, spitting down and hitting my cheeks and between them a couple times, rubbing and then pushing hard again. I tried to relax. While I was acting down and horny for this, my body was not being compliant. Especially being somewhere so easily caught. Then it went in, he grunted loudly and I yelped like a stuck pig. I felt like he was pushing me into myself. His hands grasping tightly at my bare hips as he began firm, slow thrusts, bucking me forward, feeling the sharp ping of pleasure as his heavy balls whacked against my clit. I grit my teeth and pressed my toes into my shoes. <<if $Tits !== "small">>My tits popped out of the top of my dress as he rammed me.<</if>> He was in a rhythm right away, shoving inside me with his rock hard cock. The smacking of our skin and the noises we made The smacking of our skin and the noises seeming far too loud in the open-air of the night. I couldn't see, was anyone seeing this? I couldn't //see//. Then he shoved forward with finality and thick heat spurting inside me as his cock pumped. I panted as he pulled at my hips, releasing his need inside me. Wordlessly, he reached over and grabbed a handful of napkins -- left over from lunch today -- tugged one of my hands back, transferring them to me as he began to withdraw. Had he seen those before he was fucking me? While? Turning, I sat on the edge of a bench, embarrassment rising as I wasn't sure how this was all going to turn out. He had turned, grabbing the rest of the napkins, cleaning himself off additional saliva. He was practiced at this. "Heh that was new." I tried to engage with him. "Huh, really? Thought that was like, your spot." He tugged and dried off his hanging cock. Zipped up. Fixed his belt and shirt. "See you back in there?" I smiled, feeling the tissue soaking in my hand, I wondered if he noticed the gag reflex. "Yeah." He nodded and smiled, walking back inside. Later, trying to walk in as normally as possible, I saw him chatting up Ava. A very short-lived win for me, apparently. Dancing and enjoying myself as much as I could with <<print $FName>> I saw them pairing off, Joe -- her boyfriend -- not seeming to mind as they made out beside him, or when Miguel went to the after party with them. I heard he stood outside the door as Miguel fucked her [[all night|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>> "Ehhh...someone could come out." "We'd be quick." He pulled again, dragging me towards the table. I shook my head and leaned back against his weight and strength. He grunted, sighed and let me pull him deeper into my school complex. "Here." Literally the next option: beside some lockers in the mall. <<if $Suggestible gt 2>>Shaking my head in disbelief, I bit my lower lip and felt the rough bricks digging in at my back and ass as he worked my dress up. I looked around nervously, my brain naturally remembering recent events and conversations I had mere feet away. Then he spun me around, my hands pressing against the wall before he could shove my face against it. <<if $fertile == 1>>My hands grasped at his cock before he could get it in me, "Got a condom?" I looked back over my shoulder, seeing the frustration reaching a boiling point. "You don't? Sounds like a //you// problem." He tried to move my hand away. "I'm not getting knocked up at ''Prom''." I glared. "Lucky for you, we've got another option." His hand on my wrist, he pulled the head to my asshole. This was __not__ how I envisioned losing my anal virginity, but I also was not in any mood to get raped and Miguel seemed verging in the area where that might happen. I let go and felt him push, gasping and trying to brace in my heels and against the metal lockers on either side of me. He grunted, spitting down and hitting my cheeks and between them a couple times, rubbing and then pushing hard again. I tried to relax. Then it went in, he grunted loudly and I yelped like a stuck pig. I felt like he was pushing me into myself. His hands grasping tightly at my bare hips as he began firm, slow thrusts, bucking me forward, feeling the sharp ping of pleasure as his heavy balls whacked against my clit. Everything else down there felt like it was on fire, but I gritted my teeth and pressed my toes into my shoes. <<if $Tits !== "small">>My tits popped out of the top of my dress as he rammed me.<</if>> He was pushing my guts around, literally, with his rock hard cock. The smacking of our skin and the noises we made echoing and dissipating into the open-air of the night. Then he shoved forward with finality and I felt heat growing inside me as he unloaded into my colon. I panted as he pulled at my hips, releasing his need inside me. Wordlessly, he reached over and grabbed a handful of napkins -- left over from lunch today -- tugged one of my hands back, transferring them to me as he began to withdraw. Had he seen those before he was fucking me? While? Turning, I sat on the edge of a bench, embarrassment rising as I wasn't sure how this was all going to turn out. He had turned, grabbing the rest of the napkins and going to a water fountain to clean himself off with water. He was practiced at this. "Heh that was new." I tried to engage with him. "Huh, really? Well, glad to have opened a whole new world to you. Good for you to get used to if you're not going to get on the pill." He tugged and dried off his hanging cock. Zipped up. Fixed his belt and shirt. "See you back in there?" I smiled, feeling the tissue soaking in my hand, I wondered if he noticed the gag reflex. "Yeah." He nodded and smiled, walking off. Later, trying to walk in as normally as possible, I saw him chatting up Ava. A very short-lived win for me, apparently. Dancing and enjoying myself as much as I could with <<print $FName>> I saw them pairing off, Joe -- her boyfriend -- not seeming to mind as they made out beside him, or when Miguel went to the after party with them. I heard he stood outside the door as Miguel fucked her [[all night|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>He pushed. I gasped, trying to brace in my heels and against the metal lockers on either side of me. He grunted, spitting down and hitting my cheeks and between them a couple times, rubbing and then pushing hard again. I tried to relax. While I was acting down and horny for this, my body was not being compliant. Especially being somewhere so easily caught. Then it went in, he grunted loudly and I yelped like a stuck pig. I felt like he was pushing me into myself. His hands grasping tightly at my bare hips as he began firm, slow thrusts, bucking me forward, feeling the sharp ping of pleasure as his heavy balls whacked against my clit. I grit my teeth and pressed my toes into my shoes. <<if $Tits !== "small">>My tits popped out of the top of my dress as he rammed me.<</if>> He was in a rhythm right away, shoving inside me with his rock hard cock. The smacking of our skin and the noises we made echoing and dissipating into the open-air of the night. Then he shoved forward with finality and thick heat spurting inside me as his cock pumped. I panted as he pulled at my hips, releasing his need inside me. Wordlessly, he reached over and grabbed a handful of napkins -- left over from lunch today -- tugged one of my hands back, transferring them to me as he began to withdraw. Had he seen those before he was fucking me? While? Turning, I sat on the edge of a bench, embarrassment rising as I wasn't sure how this was all going to turn out. He had turned, grabbing the rest of the napkins and going to a water fountain to clean himself off with water. He was practiced at this. "Heh that was new." I tried to engage with him. "Huh, really? Thought that was like, your spot." He tugged and dried off his hanging cock. Zipped up. Fixed his belt and shirt. "See you back in there?" I smiled, feeling the tissue soaking in my hand, I wondered if he noticed the gag reflex. "Yeah." He nodded and smiled, walking out. Later, trying to walk in as normally as possible, I saw him chatting up Ava. A very short-lived win for me, apparently. Dancing and enjoying myself as much as I could with <<print $FName>> I saw them pairing off, Joe -- her boyfriend -- not seeming to mind as they made out beside him, or when Miguel went to the after party with them. I heard he stood outside the door as Miguel fucked her [[all night|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>>"Come on...don't be crazy." "I'm being annoyed." He frowned, but allowed me to move through the mall and try the bathroom doors. Locked. Crap. Locked. Shit. Locked. Maybe we would be somewhere super-visible. Open. Oh, thank //god//. I stumbled in, not expecting the door to actually open. He caught me and pulled me close, "Nowhere to go now." He growled. Smirking dirtily up at him as I felt my dress coming up, "Nope. Caught me." Dress around my waist, he flipped me around firmly, pushing me into one of the open stalls. <<if $Undies !== "Commando">>I nearly tripped, headfirst into the toilet bowl as he yanked my underwear down my leg, tangling at my ankles.<<else>>He pushed forward between my shoulder blades, my hands catching at the walls to try and find some balance and not go straight into the toilet bowl.<</if>> "''Easy''..." He laughed, his belt uncoupling and I felt the fabric up against my bare ass as the zipper was quickly yanked open, "That's your job, <<print $Name>>." <<if $fertile == 1>>My hands grasped at his cock before he could get it in me, "Got a condom?" I looked back over my shoulder, seeing the frustration reaching a boiling point. "You don't? Sounds like a //you// problem." He tried to move my hand away. "I'm not getting knocked up in a fucking bathroom." I glared. "Lucky for you, we've got another option." His hand on my wrist, he pulled the head to my asshole. This was __not__ how I envisioned losing my anal virginity, but I also was not in any mood to get raped and Miguel seemed verging in the area where that might happen. I let go and felt him push, gasping and trying to brace in my heels and against the plastic walls of the stall. He grunted, spitting down and hitting my cheeks and between them a couple times, rubbing and then pushing hard again. I tried to relax. Then it went in, he grunted loudly and I yelped like a stuck pig. I felt like he was pushing me into myself. His hands grasping tightly at my bare hips as he began firm, slow thrusts, bucking me forward, feeling the sharp ping of pleasure as his heavy balls whacked against my clit. Everything else down there felt like it was on fire, but I gritted my teeth and pressed my toes into my shoes. <<if $Tits !== "small">>My tits popped out of the top of my dress as he rammed me.<</if>> He was pushing my guts around, literally, with his rock hard cock. The smacking of our skin and the noises we made echoing on the tile and water in the toilets. Then he shoved forward with finality and I felt heat growing inside me as he unloaded into my colon. I panted as he pulled at my hips, releasing his need inside me. Wordlessly, he reached over and grabbed a handful of tissue tugged one of my hands back, transferring them to me as he began to withdraw. Turning, I sat on the bowl, embarrassment rising as I wasn't sure how this was all going to turn out. He had turned, heading to the sinks to clean himself off with water. He was practiced at this. "Heh that was new." I tried to engage with him. "Huh, really? Well, glad to have opened a whole new world to you. Good for you to get used to if you're not going to get on the pill." Paper towels pulled from a dispenser as he tugged and dried off his hanging cock. Zipped up. Fixed his belt and shirt. "See you back in there?" I smiled, feeling the tissue soaking in my hand, I wondered if he noticed the gag reflex. "Yeah." He nodded and smiled, walking out. Later, trying to walk in as normally as possible, I saw him chatting up Ava. A very short-lived win for me, apparently. Dancing and enjoying myself as much as I could with <<print $FName>> I saw them pairing off, Joe -- her boyfriend -- not seeming to mind as they made out beside him, or when Miguel went to the after party with them. I heard he stood outside the door as Miguel fucked her [[all night|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>He pushed. I gasped, trying to brace in my heels and against the plastic walls of the stall. He grunted, spitting down and hitting my cheeks and between them a couple times, rubbing and then pushing hard again. I tried to relax. While I was acting down and horny for this, my body was not being compliant. Especially being in a familiar bathroom stall. Then it went in, he grunted loudly and I yelped like a stuck pig. I felt like he was pushing me into myself. His hands grasping tightly at my bare hips as he began firm, slow thrusts, bucking me forward, feeling the sharp ping of pleasure as his heavy balls whacked against my clit. I grit my teeth and pressed my toes into my shoes. <<if $Tits !== "small">>My tits popped out of the top of my dress as he rammed me.<</if>> He was in a rhythm right away, shoving inside me with his rock hard cock. The smacking of our skin and the noises we made echoing on the tile and water in the toilets. Then he shoved forward with finality and thick heat spurting inside me as his cock pumped. I panted as he pulled at my hips, releasing his need inside me. Wordlessly, he reached over and grabbed a handful of tissue tugged one of my hands back, transferring them to me as he began to withdraw. Turning, I sat on the bowl, embarrassment rising as I felt vulnerable, as if he had walked in on me indecent. He had turned, heading to the sinks to clean himself off with water. He was practiced at this. "Heh that was new." I tried to engage with him. "Huh, really? Thought that was like, your spot." Paper towels pulled from a dispenser as he tugged and dried off his hanging cock. Zipped up. Fixed his belt and shirt. "See you back in there?" I smiled, feeling the tissue soaking in my hand, I wondered if he noticed the gag reflex. "Yeah." He nodded and smiled, walking out. Later, trying to walk in as normally as possible, I saw him chatting up Ava. A very short-lived win for me, apparently. Dancing and enjoying myself as much as I could with <<print $FName>> I saw them pairing off, Joe -- her boyfriend -- not seeming to mind as they made out beside him, or when Miguel went to the after party with them. I heard he stood outside the door as Miguel fucked her [[all night|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>><</if>><</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Chad">><<set $Bodies.push("Chad, my Prom date")>> <<if $Suggestible lt 0 || $MaleReaction lt 1>>There are flashes from there on out: the hallway. A dark doorway. The feeling of being brought onto something soft. Penetration. The motion of him over me. The feeling of cum oozing out of my pussy. Alone. Looking around, alone still. Then it was the morning. I stumbled out of the house, brain foggy as fuck and trying to make sure no one noticed Ms. Mess 'sneaking' out. Fuck. The sun hurt my eyes. <<if $fertile == 1>>I didn't quite connect the dots until I got home, sneaking in, feet hurting from the barefoot walk, the tacky feeling of my thighs sticking and pulling apart with each step. I collapsed in bed, thankful for the comfort and that I had made it, seemingly unnoticed. I woke up after another heavy sleep, feeling like cotton everywhere, eyes, brain, skin all hurting. I chugged down water as the dry crustiness of my crotch and legs registered fully. A finger test, a sniff, fuck. He'd nutted in me. Frantically, I checked for the earliest pharmacy hours and stole a couple bills from my parents, heading [[there ASAP|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>I got home, sneaking in, feet hurting from the barefoot walk, the tacky feeling of my thighs sticking and pulling apart with each step. I collapsed in bed, thankful for the comfort and that I had made it, seemingly unnoticed. I woke up after another heavy sleep, feeling like cotton everywhere, eyes, brain, skin all hurting. Well, yay [[Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>> He clawed the dress up over my head as soon as we crossed the threshold. The urgency was like nothing I'd experienced before. Romance clearly not his strong suit as we got to the end of our date and the most romantic thing he'd done for me was get me a drink. We were naked in a flash and on the bed, him climbing ontop of me and spitting on my pussy for lubrication. <<if $fertile == 1>>"Whoah, Chad. Condom, condom. Condom." He rubbed his cockhead -- it wasn't Super -- against my slit as he gave a grimace, "Shit. Don't have any. You?" <<if $Stable gt 1 || $discipline gt 1>>I sighed, thankful for my foresight and pushed him off me so I could scramble down to get to my stuff. As I fished out the condom, he was moving behind me, spitting on his hand and wiping it along my slit to join his last glob. "Here." He tore it open while poking his dick against my fertile pussy anyway, unable to stop himself from popping his head in and then laughing as he pulled free, "Yeah, yeah, just the tip." And began rolling down the condom behind me. Then ''SMACK'' his hand against my ass as he drove in. The two spitballs and his previous penetration had made it fine for his smallish member to shove right in, balls pressed tightly to the top of my mound. "Oh, yeah." He grunted, nodding as he immediately began to fuck. He took his other hand, grabbed my hair and begin pounding. And then, after some grunts and more 'Oh, yeah' he was cumming. "Oh. Fuck. ''Yeah''." "<<shake 3s>>Yeah<</shake>>. //Take//. //That//. //Cum//, <<print $Name>>." Nodding and adding a word with each short thump of his hips, finishing off. He smiled, staying ballsdeep, he gave a little squeeze to one of my tits and pushed my head as he freed his fingers from my hair. I felt a weird wet stick against my ass. I looked back as he was tugging free, I felt the cum starting to thickly ooze out of me as I saw the condom sticking to my right cheek. He hadn't put it on and had smacked it there on his penetration. "Chad!" He didn't react, simply got dressed as fast as he stripped and got off. I slumped onto my side on the floor, testing the look and feel of the spooge as if I needed to double check. I didn't feel like going back to the party, so I curled up right there. I considered getting myself off but the thought of fingering my semen-soaked slit ended that thought. And passed out. Real hard. Then it was the morning. I stumbled out of the house, brain foggy as fuck and trying to make sure no one noticed Ms. Mess 'sneaking' out. Fuck. The sun hurt my eyes. I didn't quite connect the dots until I got home, sneaking in, feet hurting from the barefoot walk, the tacky feeling of my thighs sticking and pulling apart with each step. I collapsed in bed, thankful for the comfort and that I had made it, seemingly unnoticed. I woke up after another heavy sleep, feeling like cotton everywhere, eyes, brain, skin all hurting. I chugged down water as the dry crustiness of my crotch and legs registered fully. A finger test, a sniff, fuck. He'd nutted in me. Frantically, I checked for the earliest pharmacy hours and stole a couple bills from my parents, heading [[there ASAP|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>> I shook my head and he pressed inside me, I gasped, not ready at all for penetration but thankfully his size made it manageable. "Oh, yeah." He grunted, nodding as he immediately began to fuck. ''Unprotected''. "Chad. You gotta pull out, kay?" "Oh, yeah." Grunting that out and nodding, I took that as him agreeing but only moments before he was grunting and unloading inside me, "Oh. Fuck. ''Yeah''." "Chad!" I smacked his chest and rolled my eyes. The lubrication I now had inside me was no longer useful. "<<shake 3s>>Yeah<</shake>>. //Take//. //That//. //Cum//, <<print $Name>>." Nodding and adding a word with each short thump of his hips, finishing off. He smiled, staying ballsdeep, "Now take a Plan B, kay?" he gave a little squeeze to one of my tits and pecked me on the forehead. He got dressed as fast as he stripped and got off. I didn't feel like going back to the party, so I curled up and was going to get myself off but the thought of fingering my semen-soaked slit ended that thought. And passed out. Real hard. Then it was the morning. I stumbled out of the house, brain foggy as fuck and trying to make sure no one noticed Ms. Mess 'sneaking' out. Fuck. The sun hurt my eyes. I didn't quite connect the dots until I got home, sneaking in, feet hurting from the barefoot walk, the tacky feeling of my thighs sticking and pulling apart with each step. I collapsed in bed, thankful for the comfort and that I had made it, seemingly unnoticed. I woke up after another heavy sleep, feeling like cotton everywhere, eyes, brain, skin all hurting. I chugged down water as the dry crustiness of my crotch and legs registered fully. A finger test, a sniff, fuck. He'd nutted in me. Frantically, I checked for the earliest pharmacy hours and stole a couple bills from my parents, heading [[there ASAP|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>> <<else>> He rubbed his cockhead -- it wasn't Super -- against my slit and he pressed inside me, I gasped, not ready at all for penetration but thankfully his size made it manageable. "Oh, yeah." He grunted, nodding as he immediately began to fuck. Grunting that out and nodding, but only a few times before he was grunting and unloading inside me, "Oh. Fuck. ''Yeah''." "Chad!" I smacked his chest and rolled my eyes. Lubricated now, but no longer of use. "<<shake 3s>>Yeah<</shake>>. //Take//. //That//. //Cum//, <<print $Name>>." Nodding and adding a word with each short thump of his hips, finishing off. He smiled, staying ballsdeep, he gave a little squeeze to one of my tits and pecked me on the forehead. He got dressed as fast as he stripped and got off. I didn't feel like going back to the party, so I curled up and spent a few minutes fingering my semen-soaked slit. And passed out. Real hard. Then it was the morning. I stumbled out of the house, brain foggy as fuck and trying to make sure no one noticed Ms. Mess 'sneaking' out. Fuck. The sun hurt my eyes. I got home, sneaking in, feet hurting from the barefoot walk, the tacky feeling of my thighs sticking and pulling apart with each step. I collapsed in bed, thankful for the comfort and that I had made it, seemingly unnoticed. I woke up after another heavy sleep, feeling like cotton everywhere, eyes, brain, skin all hurting. Well, yay [[Prom|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<</if>><</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Friend">><<set $Bodies.push($Friend1 + ", my Prom date")>> Our mouths touched, then our tongues, then our hands grabbed at each other. We pawed at each other in front of everyone, oblivious to the spectacle. Alcohol is a miraculous and scary thing. We both knew <<print $FName>>'s house like the back of our hands, which were now occupied on each other, simultaneously feeling and pulling each other down the hallway. We bumped into people, we laughed but dove right back in to making out. His hand fumbled with a doorknob, locked. Then mine, locked. Shit. We found the bathroom and he pulled me in. I saw the need in his eyes. I wonder what he saw. He was lifting me, I was lifting myself onto the edge of the sink, spreading my thighs and tugging my dress up. He was stepping in and fumbling with his wallet. It fell, slapping against the tile. We had a hard time -- a seeming compulsion to continue kissing lest one of us reconsider, yet bodies just couldn't do everything you wanted attached at one place. Well, except for one. He dropped to the wallet, finding the condom <<if $Undies !== "Commando">>as I peeled my underwear down to hang on one ankle.<<else>>as I shifted to lean back against the mirror, giving him an eye line to my pussy.<</if>> Then the condom was on and he was on me in a flash. He thrust in and I wasn't quite ready, gasping and pushing back at him. "Sorry. Oh, s-sorry." I nodded, "Sokay." And lifted my knees up on either side of him, panting as he began to get into it. There was a pent up quality to the fuck -- again, I blame the alcohol -- the way he urgently stuck himself inside me. A minute or so of him jostling me on the edge of the sink, the smacking sound of our skin echoing against porcelain and tile. And then he was cumming. "S-sorry." He leaned forward, lips straining to mine but stopping as he began grunting in my face, feeling his cock pumping inside me as he filled the condom. "Sokay." I nodded again, waiting and zoning out into the buzz I was enjoying. He flexed against my mound as he got it all out, then pulled free. He didn't make eye contact. He deposited the condom in the trash. I didn't make eye contact. I fixed my dress. We walked out of the bathroom and I didn't realize he made an exit. I [[spent the night|HS009 - HomeVign3]] with <<print $FName>>, trying to dodge her playful smiles and questions. <<elseif $PromDate == "Her Man">><<set $Bodies.push("Joe, my Prom date")>> I figured that <<print $FName>>'s room would be the last taken, so I made a bee-line for it, ignoring the other doorways and trying the knob as I practically dragged Joe along. Unoccupied. Score. The little victories were what I could take solace in. <<if $Memories.includes("Prom Queen")>>"Come on, Mr. Prom King."<</if>> Giving him my best smile as I <<if $Undies !== "Commando">>removed my underwear and tugged it over the outer knob before shutting the door.<<else>>-- no underwear or socks of my own -- grabbed a sock from her drawer and put it on the knob before shutting the door.<</if>> He was complacently undressing, seated on the edge of the bed. Did Ava find this exciting? I peeled my dress off as I climbed up next to him and began helping him with his clothes. "Thanks." I found him insultingly not ready for action, but he was already laying back as if this was common. Taking his limpness in my mouth I began to work him hard, <<if $Confident gt 1>>I straddled his face and unceremoniously dropped my pussy on him so that we'd both be ready. And he went to //town//, making my break my contact with his cock as my head flicked back in surprise. "Christ." A few moments later, frozen with my back arched and toes curling in my heels, I realized I had completely lost attention to the blowjob, but he apparently didn't need it. He was hard as a rock and. <<shake 3s>>''Fuck''<</shake>> I cried out as I came. His cock flexed in reaction to my orgasm and he dived in harder. Ignoring that I was peaking, his tongue lashed at me and I squealed out, an already hard climax extending. Extending. I rolled off after what felt like an eternity, body finally back under my control, legs shaking and panting as I held my hot, flushed face. And then he was between my legs again, "Wait...n-no-ohhhh!" He was eating my pussy again, it hurt but my sensitivity brought me over the edge again, crying out helplessly I came again and again, trying to wrestle his head from between my thighs, but he was fantastically skilled at this. When his jaw finally was worn out, I had lost count of my orgasms, "You...gonna fuck me?" I panted out, not sure how good of a partner I'd be in this melted state. "I'm good." He shook his head, smiling as he dismounted the bed, cock limp and wiping his handful of jizz on the sheets. He left me there and I passed out, waking cuddled by <<print $FName>> [[in the morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>my hand dropped between my legs, frustratingly trying to override my brain so that we'd both be ready for step two. My jaw ached, my head bobbing as I forced myself onward, partially because my pussy wasn't being compliant and neither was his erection. Or lack thereof. I sighed. "Can you get yourself--" "Yeah. One sec." He cut me off, as if he expected it. Hand dropping to his shaft, he began stroking. <<if $Stable gt 1>>I fished out a condom from my bag and worked it over him once he was rigid enough. <<else>>Straddling his hips, I pushed myself down, gasping from the lack of preparedness and feeling of rubber, but also from the sensation of being filled. I began to bounce, guiding his hands to my hips, to my tits, but he kept pulling them away and just reached between us, finger on my nub and I dropped against him, gasping out as he began thrumming. I came and he continued to rub, extending the orgasm. By the time it passed, tingling throughout my limbs, I squeaked, "I can't move my legs." He laughed, hand starting to move against my clit again and I pushed him away, "Aren't you gonna...Oh." I realized I didn't feel him inside me anymore because he had slipped free. He hadn't cum, and now that the moment was over, he guided me off of him and headed out, grabbing his clothes and leaving me to sleep. I woke in the [[morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]], cuddled by <<print $FName>>.<</if>><</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Arvin">><<if $Bodies.includes("Arvin, my Step-Dad") || $VCard == "Arvin">> <<print $MName>> was out with her friends, enjoying a night to herself. Exactly as we had hoped. We climbed the stairs with practiced comfort, hands intertwined. My bed. It was our rule. He carefully and kindly was taking my dress off -- as careful and kind as <<print $MName>> had been helping me put it on. Like usual, we got me naked first, climbing onto the bed and rolling back, letting him look as he began to get undressed. The way he smiled. I couldn't help but love it. My fingers played between my legs as I got myself ready -- I was ready ever since I woke up this morning thinking about tonight -- but playing felt good. He wasn't the most attractive man, age hadn't been kind and it wasn't like he was especially fit. But there was something about him and his demeanor...or maybe it was the relationship we had, that made all the rest of it a non-issue. He climbed onto me, our bodies shifting into typical orientation, practiced condom application -- his rule -- as my legs lightly curled around his flat-tire midsection. Then he was inside me, thrusting slow as was his style, head nestled against my neck, grunting into my ear as I gasped into his. My hand slid between us to cup his sagging sack, playing with them teasingly as his coarse hair irritated my skin. He grunted deeply. God he loved that. It made him thrust deeper, intently, "Yeah. That's it." I panted into his ear, feeling the barrel of his body pressing down against my chest and stomach, pinning me to the bed while he went at my snatch. His excitement was what I needed, his need was my trigger. I began to <<shake 10s>>cum<</shake>>, light puppydog whimpering as my body twitched underneath him. He felt my release and he gave a quick one-two-three short and hard right against my crotch and began to fill the condom. His balls moving in my palm as he seeded the prophylactic. It was quick because it was always quick out of necessity. We'd rather steal moments like these than risk losing them all together. We uncoupled and laughed in our post-coital enjoyment, carefully taking care of evidence but then noticing we still had time because of our early exit and quick romp. He turned on the TV and selected an episode of the Office as I sucked on his cock for another hour or so. No intention to start again, but he didn't mind and neither did I. Then she called and we reset into our 'normal' behavior and state. "Have a good Prom?" <<print $MName>> asked later. There must have been a glow or pinkness to my cheeks as I nodded and laughed. "[[Amazing|HS009 - HomeVign3]]." <<else>><<set $Bodies.push("Arvin, my Prom date")>> <<print $MName>> was out with her friends, enjoying a night to herself. Thank god. We quickly climbed the stairs, a level of uncertainty and constant check-ins. "Uh..." We stood at the landing and I was looking at both of our doors. "Nuh-uh." He laughed and nudged me towards my room. Made sense. Then, He carefully and kindly was taking my dress off -- as careful and kind as <<print $MName>> had been helping me put it on. We got me naked first, climbing onto the bed and rolling back, letting him look as he began to get undressed. The way he smiled. I couldn't help but love it. My fingers played between my legs as I got myself ready -- I was ready ever since I made the realization on the dance floor -- but playing felt good. He wasn't the most attractive man, age hadn't been kind and it wasn't like he was especially fit. But there was something about him and his demeanor...or maybe it was the relationship we had, that made all the rest of it a non-issue. He climbed onto me, our bodies shifting. We laughed and moved, rearranging. He flashed a condom proudly, "Came prepared?" as my legs lightly curled around his flat-tire midsection. "Yeah. That a problem?" "No. Good thing. Just...you expected this?" "Hoped." Then he was inside me, thrusting slowly. He dropped his head to nestle against my neck, grunting into my ear as I gasped into his. "Oh, you feel fucking great." "S-so d-do you." "Why. Weren't. We. Doing. This. Sooner?" He laughed as he felt my cunt working his hard cock. "Better late than never." I nipped at his ear. "I want this to last forever. But..." "Yeah." I laughed at the implication. Who knew when she would get back home. He pulled my hand between us to cup his sagging sack. A little surprised, but he knew himself, I played with them teasingly as his coarse hair irritating my skin. He grunted deeply. God he //loved// that. It made him thrust deeper, intently, "Yeah. That's it." I panted into his ear, feeling the barrel of his body pressing down against my chest and stomach, pinning me to the bed while he went at my snatch. His excitement was what I needed, his need was my trigger. I began to <<shake 10s>>cum<</shake>>, light puppydog whimpering as my body twitched underneath him. He felt my release and he gave a quick one-two-three short and hard right against my crotch and began to fill the condom. His balls moving in my palm as he seeded the prophylactic. We uncoupled and laughed in our post-coital enjoyment, carefully taking care of evidence. There was an awkward moment as we stood there, naked. I saw him eyeing me and knew what was on his mind. "But." "But." He nodded. Safer is better than sorry. We reset into our 'normal' behavior and state and there was a growing pain as the minutes passed without any word from her. Thinking of the opportunity. There'd be others. That's what I reminded myself. "Have a good Prom?" <<print $MName>> asked later. There must have been a glow or pinkness to my cheeks as I nodded and laughed. "[[Amazing|HS009 - HomeVign3]]."<</if>> <<elseif $PromDate == "Harden">><<if $Bodies.includes("Harden, my highschool tutor")>><<else>><<set $Bodies.push("Harden, my Prom date")>><</if>> Gone was his timidness and restraint, gone were our clothes. Gone were our books, study materials, and good sense. Our tongues wrestled and we were climbing onto each other. We had been working each other up all night I doubted there would be foreplay. There wasn't. He was working a condom over his cock while we made out, I could feel his hands not on me, but between my thighs. And then a sudden thrust, our kiss broke as he grunted and I gasped. He hilted straight away, his sack pressed tightly to my ass and cock jamming up inside me as far as it could go. <<print $Eyes>> flashed up at him in a challenge and he began to fuck. My heels swayed in the air as the bed squeaked, panting and mmphing underneath him as I grabbed at his body in need, watching him cavorting over me. I could see the concentration on his face, he //needed// to cum. His sensitivity was through the roof and he was battling the need and nearness to his orgasm against getting me off. He frowned and his head flicked back, slowing down and his thrusting becoming awkward. "Sokay." I gasped out, feeling the rigidness stabbing up inside me. My hand dropped and I started working my button, "Just cum." Instantly, he was groaning out, leaning hard against my pubic bone while I tried to move my fingers, pinned between us. His cock was pulsing and jerking inside me while he filled the condom. And then, I joined him. "Oh, <<shake 5s>>yeah<</shake>>..." I lightly gasped. It was a tiny one, but an orgasm all the same. I smiled up at him as I finished, seeing him watching me coming down before he pulled out, taking care of the condom. "Sorry about that." "It's //my// fault. I came anyway, don't worry about it." I rolled off the bed, did a quick touch up and then we scrambled out into the hallway naked -- everyone had arrived now -- to grab our clothes and then put them on in relative privacy. "Ready?" I grabbed his hand. "Ready." And we went out to the party. We had a great time. And then later, <<print $FName>> insisted I stay with Harden. So he fucked me to close out the night too. I came twice then. He [[made up for it|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<elseif $PromDate == "Stag">><<set $Bodies.push("Joe, Ava's Prom date")>> I figured that <<print $FName>>'s room would be the last taken, so I made a bee-line for it, ignoring the other doorways and trying the knob as I practically dragged Joe along. Unoccupied. Score. The little victories were what I could take solace in. <<if $Memories.includes("PromQueen")>>"Come on, Mr. Prom King."<</if>> Giving him my best smile as I <<if $Undies !== "Commando">>removed my underwear and tugged it over the outer knob before shutting the door.<<else>>-- no underwear or socks of my own -- grabbed a sock from her drawer and put it on the knob before shutting the door.<</if>> He was complacently undressing, seated on the edge of the bed. Did Ava find this exciting? I peeled my dress off as I climbed up next to him and began helping him with his clothes. "Thanks." I found him insultingly not ready for action, but he was already laying back as if this was common. Taking his limpness in my mouth I began to work him hard, <<if $Confident gt 1>>I straddled his face and unceremoniously dropped my pussy on him so that we'd both be ready. And he went to //town//, making my break my contact with his cock as my head flicked back in surprise. "Christ." A few moments later, frozen with my back arched and toes curling in my heels, I realized I had completely lost attention to the blowjob, but he apparently didn't need it. He was hard as a rock and. <<shake 3s>>''Fuck''<</shake>> I cried out as I came. His cock flexed in reaction to my orgasm and he dived in harder. Ignoring that I was peaking, his tongue lashed at me and I squealed out, an already hard climax extending. Extending. I rolled off after what felt like an eternity, body finally back under my control, legs shaking and panting as I held my hot, flushed face. And then he was between my legs again, "Wait...n-no-ohhhh!" He was eating my pussy again, it hurt but my sensitivity brought me over the edge again, crying out helplessly I came again and again, trying to wrestle his head from between my thighs, but he was fantastically skilled at this. When his jaw finally was worn out, I had lost count of my orgasms, "You...gonna fuck me?" I panted out, not sure how good of a partner I'd be in this melted state. "I'm good." He shook his head, smiling as he dismounted the bed, cock limp and wiping his handful of jizz on the sheets. He left me there and I passed out, waking cuddled by <<print $FName>> [[in the morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]]. <<else>>my hand dropped between my legs, frustratingly trying to override my brain so that we'd both be ready for step two. My jaw ached, my head bobbing as I forced myself onward, partially because my pussy wasn't being compliant and neither was his erection. Or lack thereof. I sighed. "Can you get yourself--" "Yeah. One sec." He cut me off, as if he expected it. Hand dropping to his shaft, he began stroking. <<if $Stable gt 1>>I fished out a condom from my bag and worked it over him once he was rigid enough. <<else>>Straddling his hips, I pushed myself down, gasping from the lack of preparedness and feeling of rubber, but also from the sensation of being filled. I began to bounce, guiding his hands to my hips, to my tits, but he kept pulling them away and just reached between us, finger on my nub and I dropped against him, gasping out as he began thrumming. I came and he continued to rub, extending the orgasm. By the time it passed, tingling throughout my limbs, I squeaked, "I can't move my legs." He laughed, hand starting to move against my clit again and I pushed him away, "Aren't you gonna...Oh." I realized I didn't feel him inside me anymore because he had slipped free. He hadn't cum, and now that the moment was over, he guided me off of him and headed out, grabbing his clothes and leaving me to sleep. I woke in the [[morning|HS009 - HomeVign3]], cuddled by <<print $FName>>.<</if>><</if>><</if>> <<if $virgin == true>><<set $virgin = false>><<set $VCard = $PromDate>>And that's how I lost my virginity.<</if>>So I went where I knew I would be appreciated and not judged -- <<print $Friend1>>'s garage. The familiarity from the moment I ducked under the door set me at ease. The Boys were surprised to see me show up barefoot, heels swaying from my fingertips, and in my Prom dress. They didn't mind. I didn't expect them to. They didn't ask how the night went or how Prom was. Their questions were answered when I showed up. And they didn't even gloat about being right for not going. I escaped into Super Smash Brothers and episodes from The League. They were great [[friends|HS009 - HomeVign3]].<<set $TestScore = ($TestScore + $Stable + $discipline)>><<undress>> <<if visited("HS008 - PromNightClean") || visited("HS008 - PromNightSex")>> I ached from the dancing, the partying, the late hours. The morning light tickling my face as it filtered through the leaves outside my window. I grunted, turning over, and clutching the pillow over my face. <<else>> My gut ached from pouring my emotion into my pillow -- still damp from whenever I had passed out. My eyes crusty and dry, hell, my whole body felt desiccated. And hungry. The morning light tickling my face as it filtered through the leaves outside my window. I grunted, turning over, and clutching the pillow over my face. <</if>> <<if $Mom == 0>> Then a knock at the door. Was that what woke me up? My body certainly didn't feel like it was ready. "Not yet." I grunted out groggily from beneath the pillow. A moment passed and then, I jerked upright, eyes going from shut to wide in a split-second as an uncomfortable, "Oh, I'm sorry <<print $Name>>," came, already in my room -- <<print $DName>>. <<if $Undies == "Commando">>He averted his gaze, the man with him, did not. At least not right away. I was so shocked it took me too long to realize what was wrong. I pulled the sheets over my fully naked body,<br><br><</if>> "Jesus! <<print $DName>>. You can't just come in here!" I glared at him, pulling the sheets tight around myself, cocooning and drawing up the comforter as well. Just my head peeked out, frowning firmly and trying to make heads or tails of the other guy in my room. "We're really sorry--" the man spoke. He wore a suit, which was weird for...it was Monday? Already? Ugh. "I did knock--" <<print $DName>> tried to excuse himself. "Knock to say you were coming in...I coulda been doing //anything//. Who are you?" My anger redirected easily. "So, you...shouldn't be finding out like this. We were hoping it was going to wait, at least until graduation..." <<print $DName>> waved the suit off before he could interject, "We were trying to protect you." He stepped back, looking ashamed, eyes dropped and giving the suit the floor. I adjusted myself under the covers, trying to beat back the work my brain was doing to tie up all these loose ends and vagueness. "Ms. <<print $Surname>>. My name is Nate. I'm an Officer with the US Government and, this might come as a shock to you, but your mother's Case Officer. No, she wasn't on probation or anything like that..." he brushed away the assumption. He continued, sitting on the end of my bed. <<print $DName>> remained, cowed and standing against the wall, present but quiet. And that was how I learned that my Mom, a woman who'd been entirely out of my life had just crashed back in -- and wasn't //still// wasn't even here. Her name was Emma. She was an 'asset' and that was the reason that she hadn't been a part of my life. Instead, she had been working abroad. And, oh this was the best, they had lost touch with her. He apologized again, gave me a card for me to contact him if needed and had assured me that he wasn't just Emma's Case Officer, but also my Minder. A kind of bodyguard for me. When he left, I was absolutely frazzled and even more enraged. First, why was I being told this? Did that mean they thought she was dead? In what way did any of this affect me -- ''except'' by telling me?! Second, why had this been kept from me? <<print $DName>> knew. Third and most importantly: what was I supposed to do with any of this? And of course, I had been sworn to secrecy. National security and whatnot. I got a chuckle out of thinking of being tried for treason simply for sharing this with the Boys. My life had exploded. Timing was unkind -- giving me no time to process or react -- I had to take[[Finals|HS010 - Finals]]. <<else>> Then a knock at the door. Was that what woke me up? My body certainly didn't feel like it was ready. "Not yet." I grunted out groggily from beneath the pillow. A moment passed and then, I jerked upright, eyes going from shut to wide in a split-second as an uncomfortable, "Oh, I'm sorry <<print $Name>>," came, already in my room -- <<print $DName>>. <<if $Undies == "Commando">>He averted his gaze. I was so shocked it took me too long to realize what was wrong. I pulled the sheets over my fully naked body,<br><br><</if>> "Jesus! <<print $DName>>. You can't just come in here!" I glared at him, pulling the sheets tight around myself, cocooning and drawing up the comforter as well. Just my head peeked out, frowning firmly and trying to make heads or tails of why he didn't just leave. "I'm sorry, dear. It...is time for school, so you should start getting ready." I rolled my eyes, tossing the sheets back to teach him a lesson for barging in like this. He didn't check to see if I was naked? He was going to see me naked. "And that's not all." He had turned, looking out the window and trying to give me privacy. "Um. Okay." I stood there, hands on my hips, establishing dominance in a very weird way. "<<print $MName>> is gone." I shrugged, feeling my body jiggle in response to the sudden and quick movement, "Yeah. And?" He sighed, "I didn't even know she was going. The night of Prom...she just...left. I haven't been able to contact her." There was an edge to how he spoke, as if he was being very careful. I felt very naked. The pause elongated and he uncomfortably exited the room, taking my silence for an end to the conversation, everything he had intended to say, said. As I got ready for school, my mind returned time and again to that selfie I had taken the other night. Had that been why she had reacted so weirdly? Is that why she left? I tried to keep my mind on school for the rest of the week. And then, Friday landed <<linkreplace "another blow">>another blow. "We're really sorry--" the man spoke. He wore a suit. "Did you want to sit--" <<print $DName>> tried make things normal. I had literally just walked in the door from school to find them both together at the dining room table. "Who are you?" I didn't sit. "So, you...shouldn't be finding out like this. We were hoping it could wait, at least until graduation..." <<print $DName>> waved the suit off before he could interject, "We were trying to protect you." He looked ashamed, eyes dropped and giving the suit a sign he could speak. I dropped my backpack unceremoniously, trying to beat back the work my brain was doing to tie up all these loose ends and vagueness. "Ms. <<print $Surname>>. My name is Nate. I'm an Officer with the US Government and, this might come as a shock to you, but your mother's Case Officer. No, she wasn't on probation or anything like that..." he brushed away the assumption. He continued, <<print $DName>> remained, cowed and practically praying at the table, present but quiet. And that was how I learned that my Mom, a woman who'd been entirely out of my life had just crashed back in -- and wasn't //still// wasn't even here. Her name was Emma. She was an 'asset' and that was the reason that she hadn't been a part of my life. Instead, she had been working abroad. And, oh this was the best, they had lost touch with her. He apologized again, gave me a card for me to contact him if needed and had assured me that he wasn't just Emma's Case Officer, but also my Minder. A kind of bodyguard for me. When he left, I was absolutely frazzled and even more enraged. First, why was I being told this? Did that mean they thought she was dead? In what way did any of this affect me -- ''except'' by telling me?! Second, why had this been kept from me? <<print $DName>> knew. Third and most importantly: what was I supposed to do with any of this? And of course, I had been sworn to secrecy. National security and whatnot. I got a chuckle out of thinking of being tried for treason simply for sharing this with the Boys. My life had exploded. Timing was unkind -- giving me no time to process or react -- I had to take[[Finals|HS010 - Finals]].<</linkreplace>><</if>><<silently>><<nobr>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">><</nobr>> <<unset $attemptBig, $attempt, $ChellaDirect, $ChellaSneak, $ChellaDetect, $barndrink, $barnlocation, $barnmusic, $barnpeople, $barnsurprise, $barndrugs, $FFpeople, $FFlocation, $FFmusic, $FFdrink, $FFsurprise, $FFdrugs, $makeit, $Vol, $BandCohesion, $BandWin, $SoloSuccess, $MusicOriginal, $soloist>> <</silently>> Cramming took on a whole other meaning. My brain couldn't focus on the last-minute sessions just dumping information and notes into my short-term before a test. Instead, I was cramming down the thoughts, confusion and emotions bubbling up inside of me. I'm certain it didn't help my testing ability -- the internal commotion, lack of focus, and nothing sticking in my brain that hadn't already been there. I bent over my blue books and tests, disassociating mid-essay, blobs of wetness discoloring my Scan-tron and making it hard to decipher what I had filled in with a pencil rather than tears. My pride was protected with everyone in their own world and looking around was asking to be called a cheater. Our teachers were bored, proctoring hour after hour and being unable to do anything in the near-silent classrooms. More than half the time, I just tossed my stack of papers onto the front desk as soon as we were allowed, wanting to just escape. The series of tortures eventually came to a close and the grades were posted. At least there was //some// relief. <<nobr>><div id ="early"><<if $TestScore gte 9>> Despite everything, I had ''crushed'' it. GPA essentially //perfect//.<br><br> Shit, with grades like that, I could <<if $Age === -1>>[[graduate like instantly|HS011 - Life Choices][$Age --]].<<else>>[[graduate early|HS011 - Life Choices][$Age --]].<br><br><</if>> Or...<br><br> Just take the easy route and stay in school, to <<link "enjoy">><<replace "#early">><<set $Excitable -->><<set $Confident -->><<set $learning ++>><<set $social ++>><br><br> And so, a decision loomed, imposing and frightening on the horizon:<br><br> <<if $TestScore lt 3>>[[Drop Out|HS012 - LifeChoices][$Stable --; $learning --; $DropOut = true; $Age --]]<br><</if>> Get the hell [[outta dodge|HS011 - Graduation]].<br> Take a [[Gap Year|HS011 - Graduation][$GapYear = true]] and take some needed time for myself.<br> Well, the next step of school was obviously to apply to [[colleges|HS011 - Graduation][$College = true]].<br> <</replace>><</link>> the rest of the time with no pressure.<br><br> <<else>> <<if 9 > $TestScore gte 7>>Wow. Despite everything...just a single B. Ugh, even looking at it hurt -- I knew it was emblematic of everything going on, not my ability.<br><br><</if>> <<if 7 lt $TestScore gte 5>>Call me Bell Curve <<print $Name>>. B's and C's.<br><br><</if>> <<if 5 > $TestScore gte 3>>Oof. Barely. //Barely// squeaked by. But D is for diploma, right?<br><br><</if>> And so, a decision loomed, imposing and frightening on the horizon:<br><br> <<if $TestScore lt 3>>[[Drop Out|HS012 - LifeChoices][$Stable --; $learning --; $DropOut = true; $Age --]]<br><</if>> Get the hell [[outta dodge|HS011 - Graduation]].<br> Take a [[Gap Year|HS011 - Graduation][$GapYear = true]] and take some needed time for myself.<br> Well, the next step of school was obviously to apply to [[colleges|HS011 - Graduation][$College = true]].<</if>></div><</nobr>><<if $sexcount == false>>Shit. I got ahead of myself. Because I skipped Prom Night we didn't get into the nitty gritty of my dirty bits. Let's do that [[now|HS003 - HSSex]]. <<else>> <<if $virgin == true>> It was the big day. School officially coming to a close and all of us scattering to the wind. Even though there was nothing on the line, there was still a pit in my stomach. <<print $Friend1>> buzzed on my phone, keeping me from actually figuring out the root cause of my nervousness, "Cap and gown lookin' good?" "I won't be late." "Not dressed?" Devil face emoji. "Lemme see." Eggplant. Wow. That was an escalation from the usual. I wanted to write it off as just a horny teenager but this was <<print $Friend1>>, one of my //Boys//. <<if $Easy gt 0>>I was surprised it had taken this long. I <<link "snapped">><<upper>><</link>> <<link "some">><<bra>><</link>> <<link "escalating">><<panties>><</link>> <<link "nudes">><<panties>><</link>> and playfully sent them back slowly as I got ready and headed over to the school. [[Graduation present|HS011 - Graduation2]].<</if>> <<if $Confident gt 0 || $Excitable gt 0>>I was a little shocked at how it made me feel. I took the compliment I hoped it was and found a <<link "tasteful">><<upper>><<lower>><</link>> way to fulfill the wish. [[Graduation present|HS011 - Graduation2]].<</if>> I shut it down immediately, "Gross, dude. [[Deleting|HS011 - Graduation2]]." <<else>> It was the big day. School officially coming to a close and all of us scattering to the wind. Even though there was nothing on the line, there was still a pit in my stomach. <<print $VCard>> buzzed on my phone, keeping me from actually figuring out the root cause of my nervousness, "Cap and gown lookin' good?" "I won't be late." "Not dressed?" Devil face emoji. "Lemme see." Eggplant. <div id = "selfie">Fulfill the <<link "desire">><<replace "#selfie">>Not the most convincing argument, but I was feeling <<link "generous">><<upper>><<lower>><<feet>><<bra>><<panties>><</link>>. A confident saunter in front of the mirror and I snapped a couple nudes, deciding between them as I ignored insistent follow-up texts. Caption...<<shake 1s>>*bzzt*<</shake>>...Caption....<<shake 2s>>*bzzt*<</shake>>...How to caption this...<<shake 3s>>*bzzt* *bzzt*<</shake>> I could sense the salivating. Ahh, the one in the cap: It's hot out. I think I'll go like [[this|HS011 - Graduation2]] under the gown. Ahh, the one from the side, showing off: You gonna miss [[this|HS011 - Graduation2]]? Ahh, the one throwing up deuces: Can't rush me when I'm [[fingering|HS011 - Graduation2]]. <</replace>><</link>> or leave it on <<link "read">><<replace "#selfie">>Eh, can't reward such a half-assed and horny attempt. Punish...<<shake 1s>>*bzzt*<</shake>>...Punish....<<shake 2s>>*bzzt*<</shake>>...How to punish...<<shake 3s>>*bzzt* *bzzt*<</shake>> It could sense the salivating. Ahh, a picture of the gown on the floor by...yeah, those are __not__ my shorts or theirs: Sorry, busy. Hold my [[chair|HS011 - Graduation2]]. Ahh, send back a dick pic I got sent: You gonna miss [[this|HS011 - Graduation2]] dick? Ahh, sun behind me...get a shadow, yeah, cast right over the gown on the bed: Already fading from your [[memory|HS011 - Graduation2]]?<</replace>><</link>>...Hmm...</div><</if>><</if>><<silently>><<undress>><<feet "chunkySneaks">><<if $Undies == "bikini">><<panties "panties_bikini">><<elseif $Undies == "thong">><<panties "panties_thong">><</if>><<lower "denimSkirt">><<if $Braless == false>><<bra "bra">><</if>><<upper "shirtSparrow">><</silently>> It was legion, caps and gowns undulating like a sea in the sunlight. Chairs assembled on the freshly cut grass causing our allergies to collectively act up. Mark -- we'd never really taken to giving respect to our Principal -- made a meandering speech about how important the time was, today was, and our lives would be. The self-aggrandizement was plain as the sweat on our foreheads. Then Ava made the valedictorian speech. Well, that bitch got attention and victory again. I wish her well. Here, she was a big fish in a small pond. Out there...the pit from before returned. Fuck. I was scared about the future. Like something was bearing down on me and I had no control over it, and it was coming. We crossed the stage, shaking his hand, grabbing our diploma and usually make some sort of 'personal' touch to the few moments crossing from staircase to staircase. "<<print $Name>> <<print $Surname>>." My turn. My thighs stuck to the gown that was plastered to the cheap vinyl seat as I pulled myself up. Moving was a welcome relief from the heat and allowed my sweat to do its job. The Boys cheered. I smiled at them. <<if $virgin == true>><<print $FName1>> gave me a wink.<<else>><<print $VCard>> winked at me.<</if>> <<print $DName>> cheered far too loudly, but I appreciated it, giving a bashful wave to him. Then back to my seat. Well. That was...underwhelming. That bench post that had been looming in front of us for so long, passed in an instant. Would they all be like that? So easy? So scary? No matter what, we all were [[moving on|HS012 - LifeChoices]].<<nobr>><<set _SMoptions = { "used it as much as anyone else" : 1 }>> <<if $Sophisticated lt 0>><<set _SMoptions["kept it to an absolute minimum"] = 0>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 0 || $Easy gt 0 || $Confident gt 0>><<set _SMoptions["put my life out there, no matter what I was wearing or how I was feeling"] = 2>><</if>> <<set _drugoptions = { }>> <<if $hsv == 'partier' || $hsv == 'club'>> <<set _drugoptions["tried everything once, and preferred the way it all made me feel"] = 3>> <<else>> <<set _drugoptions["had tried a few things here or there, when the opportunity felt right"] = 1>> <<set _drugoptions["knew where to get it, to buy it -- I liked having some on hand"] = 2>> <<if $Stable gte $Suggestible && $Stable gte $Risky>><<set _drugoptions["never touched the stuff. I liked being clean and clear"] = 0>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $Bodies.length lt 5>><<set $kinknum = 1>><<set $num = 1>> <<elseif $Bodies.length lt 10>><<set $kinknum = 2>><<set $num = 1>> <<elseif $Bodies.length lt 20>><<set $kinknum = 3>><<set $num = 2>> <<elseif $Bodies.length lt 30>><<set $kinknum = 4>><<set $num = 3>> <<elseif $Bodies.length gte 30>><<set $kinknum = 5>><<set $num = 4>><</if>><</nobr>> <<if $DropOut == true>> I was excited to get a drop on life, while they squirreled away to close out school and 'graduate'...to what? More school? Blech. Gimme the real world any day. Growing up nowadays, social media was all around. MySpace and Facebook -- vanguard of it all -- were becoming passé. Kik, TikTok, Insta, Snap, Whisper, it was a veritable cornucopia of ways to connect virtually. Personally, I <<cycle "$Media" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _SMoptions>><</cycle>>. Talk about everywhere, even before college, drugs and alcohol were everywhere. It didn't matter if it was just over at a friend's, or a highschool party, or a house party, it was present and on offer. I <<cycle "$AddictionLv" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _drugoptions>><</cycle>>. Knowing I was going out into the world, the reins loosened a bit and more of the responsibility on my shoulders I thought about the choices I had made and how they might affect me going forward, emotionally, financially, however it might weigh on me. <<if $fertile == 0 && $virgin == false>> There wouldn't always be a pharmacy nearby or necessarily cash on hand... <div id = "BC">But I had to <<link "stay safe">><<replace "#BC">> I wasn't about to let myself get in the 'motherly' way out of stupidity or fear of running out of money. I knew I couldn't trust guys.<</replace>><</link>>. I had learned enough about myself and sex, I <<link "didn't need the birth control">><<replace "#BC">><<set $fertile = 1>><<unset $BC>> But I was confident that I could handle everything life, guys and sex could throw my way. I got off birth control and felt lighter and clearer because of the decision. <</replace>><</link>> anymore.</div> <<elseif $fertile == 1 && $virgin == false>> Sex to date had been a minefield. It came out of nowhere most of the time and, man, the feelings in the moment...I had made some really dumb decisions. That I had not gotten knocked up so far was a miracle, maybe thanks to some rhythm, thanks to some OTC help, thanks to luck, didn't matter why. I was glad. <div id = "noBC"> I had proven the decision was good so far, I didn't feel like a change was necessary. Why fix something that <<link "wasn't broken">><<replace "#noBC">> Whether I had sperm-killing juices, an iron womb, or some ability to control my ovulation, it didn't matter. I rolled unprotected and I wore it like a badge of honor. <</replace>><</link>>? I...had enough of the sleepless nights, tears and calendar counting. And late night almost texts to guys. I needed to <<link "get onto something">><<replace "#noBC">><<set $fertile = 0>> After looking at all of the options, I decided upon <<listbox "$BC">> <<option "Yaz" "Pill">> <<option "Nexplanon implant" "Implant">> <<option "copper IUD" "IUD">> <<option "Mirena IUD" "mIUD">> <<option "Nuvaring" "Ring">> <</listbox>><</replace>><</link>>.</div> <</if>> <<else>> That was it. The first real line in the sand in my life. No turning and going back to high school. It was frightening, the world was huge. Growing up nowadays, social media was all around. MySpace and Facebook -- vanguard of it all -- were becoming passé. Kik, TikTok, Insta, Snap, Whisper, it was a veritable cornucopia of ways to connect virtually. Personally, I <<cycle "$Media" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _SMoptions>><</cycle>>. Talk about everywhere, even before college, drugs and alcohol were everywhere. It didn't matter if it was just over at a friend's, or a highschool party, or a house party, it was present and on offer. I <<cycle "$AddictionLv" autoselect>><<optionsfrom _drugoptions>><</cycle>>. Knowing I was going out into the world, the reins loosened a bit and more of the responsibility on my shoulders I thought about the choices I had made and how they might affect me going forward, emotionally, financially, however it might weigh on me. <<if $fertile == 0 && $virgin == false>> There wouldn't always be a pharmacy nearby or necessarily cash on hand... <div id = "BC">But I had to <<link "stay safe">><<replace "#BC">> I wasn't about to let myself get in the 'motherly' way out of stupidity or fear of running out of money. I knew I couldn't trust guys. <</replace>><</link>>. I had learned enough about myself and sex, I <<link "didn't need the birth control">><<replace "#BC">><<set $fertile = 1>><<unset $BC>> But I was confident that I could handle everything life, guys and sex could throw my way. I got off birth control and felt lighter and clearer because of the decision. <</replace>><</link>> anymore.</div> <<elseif $fertile == 1 && $virgin == false>> Sex to date had been a minefield. It came out of nowhere most of the time and, man, the feelings in the moment...I had made some really dumb decisions. That I had not gotten knocked up so far was a miracle, maybe thanks to some rhythm, thanks to some OTC help, thanks to luck, didn't matter why. I was glad. <div id = "noBC"> I had proven the decision was good so far, I didn't feel like a change was necessary. Why fix something that <<link "wasn't broken">><<replace "#noBC">> Whether I had sperm-killing juices, an iron womb, or some ability to control my ovulation, it didn't matter. I rolled unprotected and I wore it like a badge of honor. <</replace>><</link>>? I...had enough of the sleepless nights, tears and calendar counting. And late night almost texts to guys. I needed to <<link "get onto something">><<replace "#noBC">><<set $fertile = 0>> After looking at all of the options, I decided upon <<listbox "$BC">> <<option "Yaz" "Pill">> <<option "Nexplanon implant" "Implant">> <<option "copper IUD" "IUD">> <<option "Mirena IUD" "mIUD">> <<option "Nuvaring" "Ring">> <</listbox>><</replace>><</link>>.</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $virgin == true>> Hadn't had sex to date, so not weighing myself down with extra hormones had been a solid one. Go me. Let's keep on trucking! And speaking of that, while I wasn't the only member of the V-club, I wondered if the pressure I had felt in school would mount to be too much to handle. Was I really that much of a weirdo? I had flirted and had my own fun and -- while dates had been fewer and further between, and not too long-lasting -- it wasn't like I hadn't experienced love. Life was changing, and I soldiered on to the [[next big thing|HS014 - Transitions]]. <<else>> And then, finally. Fuck, already tears in my eyes, a tightness in my throat and in my stomach. <<print $VCard>> was my first and my constant growing up. But the world was such a huge place and there were so many other people... <div id = "firstlove"> I <<link "ended things">><<replace "#firstlove">><<set $Confident += 2>>Walking away from that conversation was easy. Not because dropping the hammer on <<print $VCard>> was easy -- it wasn't. But the way they acted blindsided, that they screamed and wailed...so unattractive. I had made the right choice. On to bigger and better. They had been a part of making me who I was, and I had learned a lot about my [[sexual self|HS013 - SexLeveling]] <</replace>><</link>> for certain, this time. I couldn't let them go, we'd see how <<link "we survived">><<replace "#firstlove">><<set $Stable ++>><<set $Risky -->><<set $Confident -->><<set $Easy -->>So we kept texting and as life changed around us it was comforting. It might not be forever...but it might. They had been a part of making me who I was, and I had learned a lot about my [[sexual self|HS013 - SexLeveling]] <</replace>><</link>> the next bumps life threw our way.</div><</if>><<nobr>><<if $BC == "Pill">><<run $Inventory.push("Pills")>><</if>><<if $BC == "Ring">><<run $Inventory.push("Ring")>><</if>> <<run setup.kinks = [ "Exhibitionism", "Masochism", "Sadism", "Bondage", "Breath play", "Cheating", "Cum" ]>> <<if $Kinks.length gte 1>><<run setup.kinks.push("Nothing else turned me on")>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 1 && $Excitable gt 1>><<run setup.kinks.push("Breeding")>><</if>> <<if $Bodies.includesAny(`$FName + "'s Dad, Tyler"`,"Levy, Lead Judge at TwitchCon", "Mark, successful catfisher", "Coach Rod", "Marty, Paddy regular", "Willy, high school PE teacher", "Arvin, my Step-Dad", "Mark, the principal", "George, famed sci-fi author", "Coach LeTourneau", "Larry, foster Dad", `"Ronnie" + $DName + "'s friend"`, "Lorenzo, a schoolfriend's dad", "Archer, hometown university professor", `$FName + "'s Dad, Tyler"`, "Bentley, my 'Sugar Daddy'", "Marco, construction worker at school", "Sean, high school PE teacher", "Willy, music industry judge", "John Hull, Minister", "Madox, my step-mom's ex-husband", "Uncle Tom", "Hayden, my step-mom's friend", "Jesus, our older gardener", "Joel, displaced person", "Coach Barkewitcz", "Tristan, coach for the opposing team", "Mark, the principal", "George, famed sci-fi author", "Gideon, film producer", "Bradley, TV producer", "Russell, Deb's pushy regular", "Coach Vovk", "Aleksandr, former Soviet Olympian", "Bryce, my teacher at community college")>><<run setup.kinks.push("Older Men")>><</if>> <<switch $Vcard>> <<case $DName "Larry" "Tyler" "Ronnie" "Coach Vovk" "Arvin" "Rod" "Barkewitcz" "Mark" "Uncle Tom" "Hull" "Marco">> <<run setup.kinks.push("Older Men")>> <</switch>> <<if $Bodies.length gt 10>><<run setup.kinks.push("Nympho")>><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Masochist")>><<run setup.kinks.delete["Sadist"]>><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Sadist")>><<run setup.kinks.delete["Masochist"]>><</if>> <<if $Risky gt 3>><<run setup.kinks.push("Rape play")>><</if>> <<run setup.sexskills = [ "Tight Pussy", "Easy Orgasms", "Easy Arousal", "Good Head", "Good Handjobs", "Good Intercourse", "Good Anal", ]>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Tight Pussy")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Tiny Pussy")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Extra-Tight Pussy")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Crazy-Small Pussy")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Easy Orgasms")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Quick Orgasms")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Quick Orgasms")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Hair-Trigger Orgasms")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Easy Arousal")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("High Libido")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("High Libido")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Constantly Horny")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Head")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Deepthroater")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Deepthroater")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("No Gag Reflex")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Handjobs")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Skilled Hands and Feet")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Skilled Hands and Feet")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Master Manipulator")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Intercourse")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Great Intercourse")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Anal")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Great Anal")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Great Intercourse")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Sex God")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Great Anal")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Anal Queen")>><</if>> <<if $hsv == ("cheer", "gym", "dance") || $activity == ("gym", "dance")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Pliant Limbs")>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Flexible")>><<run setup.sexskills.push("Incredible Flexibility")>><</if>><</nobr>> Sex had taught me a couple of things about myself: what I liked and what I knew about my body and its talents. <<if $Kinks.includes("Nothing else turned me on")>> And at the time, I was certain that life had many more opportunities to grow and change. And boy, [[was I right|HS014 - Transitions]]. <<elseif $Kinks.length gte $kinknum && $Sexskills.length gte $num>> And at the time, I was certain that life had many more opportunities to grow and change. And boy, [[was I right|HS014 - Transitions]]. <<else>> <<if $Kinks.length gte 1>> My brain just happened to be wired in a way where I loved: <br><br> <<nobr>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Bondage")>>Tie me up! Tie me down.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Rape play")>>The idea of just being...taken.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Exhibitionism")>>Being seen, being appreciated and showing off.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Breeding")>>Risky? Yeah. That's what made getting filled fun.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Older Men")>>Something about an older man curled my toes.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Masochism")>>Mistreat me, abuse me, humiliate me.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Breath play")>>Being choked...up to the point of blacking out.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Sadism")>>The turn of roles, making guys my bitch.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Cheating")>>Relationships only made it hot if you were fucking someone //else//.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Cum")>>Cum, how it felt, how it looked, how it tasted, making guys do it.<br><</if>> <<if $Kinks.includes("Nympho")>>Sex, sex, sex!<br><br><</if>> <</nobr>> <</if>> <<if $Kinks.length lt $kinknum>> <<nobr>> <<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _kink range setup.kinks>> <<if ! $Kinks.includes(_kink)>> <<capture _kink>> <<button _kink _nav>> <<run $Kinks.push(_kink)>> <</button>> <</capture>> <br> <</if>> <</for>> <</nobr>> <</if>> <<if $Sexskills.length gte 1>>And experience had taught me that: <<nobr>><<if $Sexskills.includes("Tight Pussy")>>I was built different inside and my pussy surprised everyone. No Kegels needed.<br><br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Head")>>My mouth was a finisher.<br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Easy Orgasms")>>Thankfully, I popped quickly, usually before even guys.<br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Easy Arousal")>>I was turned on way easier than most.<br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Handjobs")>>Whether foreplay or the full play, I didn't need holes.<br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Intercourse")>>My sex //melted// people.<br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Good Anal")>>Getting in my ass got guys off.<br><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.includes("Pliant Body")>>Positions came easy, so did men.<br><br><</if>> <</nobr>><</if>> <<if $Sexskills.length lt $num>> <<nobr>><<set _nav to passage()>> <<for _sexskill range setup.sexskills>> <<if ! $Sexskills.includes(_sexskill)>> <<capture _sexskill>> <<button _sexskill _nav>> <<run $Sexskills.push(_sexskill)>> <</button>> <</capture>> <br> <</if>> <</for>><</nobr>><</if>> <</if>><<set $SMfollowers = ($Media * $Attractiveness)>><<if $Memories.includes("TeenModel")>><<set $SMfollowers += 2>><</if>> I sat on my bed, with my phone uncharacteristically off. I looked over the mess of my room from the past couple weeks. I had not been taking care of myself and it showed. The amount of laundry needed to be done was plain as day, there was now a carpet of my discarded clothes. The sheets of my bed had been tugged into place so many times that they no longer could even affect a 'made bed' look anymore. My luggage peeked out at me from the closet. I had pulled them out and put them back at least once every day. My Mom //disappeared//. Once the disbelief of it passed, processing proceeded to my thoughts that I should do the same. Well, if I was going to do that, I needed to have clothes. I sighed and pulled myself from the comfort of my bed's cushioning and began picking up my mess. Moving was cathartic -- it felt like forward momentum when everything else had me stalling out. With an arm clutch of clothes, I was drawn up short. Nate's card had appeared from beneath a pair of <<if $Undies !== "Commando">>my underwear<<else>>some guy's boxer shorts I used to sleep in<</if>>...My 'minder'. I wondered if he was watching, //bodyguarding// for me right now. Did he like keep watch in a car down the street? Did he have cameras all over my room? The thought raised my hackles. That was frightening. I reached down and picked the thin rectangle up, playing it over in my fingers. It was all too much. I made my decision. <div id = "decision"><<if $GapYear == true>>I needed to clear my head, take some time, figure out what to do. But, where should I <<link "go">><<replace "#decision">>I tucked Nate's card into my waistband and did the first load of [[many|EXIT]].<</replace>><</link>>?<</if>> <<if $College == true>>I wondered if my 'minder' could get me into school. I doubted it. If it was on me, that meant it was College <<link "application">><<replace "#decision">>I tucked Nate's card into my waistband and did the first load of [[many|EXIT]].<</replace>><</link>> time.<</if>> Giving the finger to structure and expectation -- to my ''life'' -- it was time for me to be <<link "leaving">><<replace "#decision">>I tucked Nate's card into my waistband and did the first load of [[many|EXIT]].<</replace>><</link>> on a jet plane.</div>You've come to the end of the current version [0.2]! Thank you for playing. This is a //massive// update that highlights choice, character creation, writing breadth and depth. It comprises an increase in lines of code from 2,393 to __//''10,367''//__. Nearly five TIMES the code. And most of that is content, variations of story, and paths you probably didn't get to in this playthrough. We've gone from, essentially the Paper Doll to art assets totaling ''186'' between a few bits of clothes [check out those HSVs], passage art (what'cha think of the new GIF?), and newly implemented buttons. Also, thank you to some individuals, without whom this initial release wouldn't be anything close to what it is. Throw some applause to: * LewdPirate - Art Assets (clothes, passage art, skin coloration, buttons -- OMFG!) * noice1bruh - New doll(!) * Fictionary - Cleaning the code, making the UX/UI look better and cleaner * thegoofyproofyreader - Contributing to a couple HSVs! proofreading, and improving my writing What's coming in the next release (0.3)? Content * Your Claire will either: - enjoy a Gap Year abroad and then decide to go to college or break out into the world - go to college and then see where life takes her - take off into the great blue yonder, arriving in the first "Act" of the story * So, the content will be nearly as expansive as this -- this is the largest release probably to happen in the game -- but from here on, there will be a fragmentation. Playing paths will begin to eschew others. Some players will see the 'main game' sooner, whereas other players will continue to learn and craft who Claire is, what she experiences, what she's good at (or not so good at), and bring a more developed Claire to the first Act. * This will be the first taste of the structural differentiation of playthroughs. This one had some story arcs that excluded others, but in future releases, players will find themselves at different cross-roads at the end of each release and to proceed further on their path, they'll need to wait for the next release. Technicals * We're implementing backend systems that will start to come to the fore-front during Act I of our story (0.4 and onward) We'd appreciate your support for the continued development of Blue Swallow, which you can [[join here|https://subscribestar.adult/blue-swallow?redirect_notice=true]]. Joining our community can also afford the ability to give feedback and input towards guiding and improving the game -- we look forward to hearing your ideas! If you'd like to contribute to the content of the game, you're more than welcome and should join the Discord community through the support link above. Looking forward to continuing the adventures of our intrepid protagonist!