46 -ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID

I also noticed that he was wearing the pearl stud earrings that he was given as a gift. I gasped, "Your ears are pierced!"

"THAT woman comes into the shop everyday! Mother said it would be rude to not wear a gift. I have to be constantly aware that I am a girl now." I looked at my best friend, acting so much like a girl.

What would happen to him if he began to feel like a girl too?

While everyone in our tiny school knew why Baily was dressed like this, I didn't understand why he was doing it so well. His hair could have just been put up or nicely combed but Baily's was always perfectly curled. He could have worn the jump suits or overalls. . .most girls did. No, he wore sassy dresses, nylons and had begun to use the girl's bathroom. He said, "It's easier and they have a place for my purse."

He also talked in a higher voice, using a lot of words like "darling, and sweet and adorable."

It was all so unnecessary!

I saw something in his purse one day and could not hide the shock on my face.

He nearly turned purple. "It was mother's idea. You know that girls wear these things every 3 weeks..."

I just sat there with my mouth open. I could not find words.

For the next two weeks, Baily showed up in school assuming the coed role. He wore casual, yet stylish short jean skirts that were knee length and various sweaters and tops. Nylons and a pair of black pumps, with a three inch heel completed what I could see. But I knew underneath there were nylon panties and a matching silky brassiere. It's impression was eye-catching but looked uncomfort-

SANDY THOMAS PUBLICATIONS 47

For the next two weeks, Baily showed up at school completely dressed and assuming the coed role.

He could have worn the jump suits or overalls.. but no...he wore dresses and skirts!