Unveiling the Truth: Abuse and the Journey to a Better Life

ch4 - trust

The following morning when Lily awoke, she sensed someone in her room. She quickly opened her eyes to find her mother standing over her.

"Good morning, sweetheart. I was just about to wake you."

"Good morning, mom." Lilly greeted as she pulled her self up to a seated position with her back against the headboard. "What's up?"

"Well, I did a lot of thinking last night."

"Yeah, mom?"

"Are you sure you can handle keeping your secret safe?"

I do, mom, I really do."

"If that's the case, I think you might be right. You should be around other people your age more, and I think the chances of your dad finding us are slim. So, okay, if it's what you really want, we'll enroll you in a school, but not public school. I trust your judgment, but I think we should try private school."

"Wait, there's only one private school in town, Infinite Potential Christian Academy. You really think that's the right choice?"

"Yes, It's smaller and the atmosphere is more welcoming and less cruel. The kids are raised better than a lot of what goes to the public school."

"Okay mom, I trust your judgment, but can we afford that?"

"I've already looked into it and they have a wealthy donor that provides grants to deserving students. I applied and told them your story. I told them all about your dad and how we are escaping that abuse and misery and my desires for your future."

"Wait, you told therm about my secret? Mom!"

"Calm down, Lily, no. I told them everything except I didn't reveal you were born male."

"Oh good, so what did they say?"

"They liked our story and want to help me see you successfully become an adult as far removed from the horrible influence of your dad as possible.  They offered you a grant that will allow you to attend the school at no out of pocket cost from me. It pays for everything."

"Oh. Mom! That's wonderful."

"Now, Lily. If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, you need to tell me immediately, understand? We'll figure something out together. If were going to do this,  I want you to have the best experience possible."

Lily threw her arms around her mother, hugging her tightly. "Thank you, Mom," she whispered. "I love you so much." They held each other for a moment, sharing a quiet moment of connection before pulling apart. "So," Lily said, trying to sound more cheerful, "what do we need to do to get ready for private school?"

Her mom smiled warmly. "Well, first off, you'll need some new school clothes, well school dresses and skirts. We can go shopping together this weekend and get you some things that fit your style."

The thought of shopping for new clothes filled Lily with excitement, but she knew her mom was right; there were still a lot of details to take care of. "Okay," she said, nodding seriously. "And Mom, about making friends...do you think you could help me with that?"

Her mom chuckled softly. "Of course, sweetheart. I'll be right there with you every step of the way. And the right people will find you, I promise."

"Mom, do you think we should tell the school about my, you know, secret?" she asked hesitantly. "What if they don't understand?"

Her mother considered the question for a moment before responding. "Well, Lily, I really don't think that's necessary. You're a girl, and that's all they need to know. For now, let's focus on making sure you feel comfortable and confident in your new school. I'm sure you'll make lots of friends and have a wonderful time."

Lily smiled at her mother, feeling reassured. They spent the rest of the morning discussing logistics and preparations for school. They made a list of what Lily needed, in addition to outfits; hair bows, shoes, school supplies, and Lilly wanted several pairs of earrings.

The rest of the week passed in a blur of activity as Lily and her mom prepared for the upcoming school year. They met with teachers, the guidance counselor, and even the headmaster, who was nothing like Lily had expected. She was young, vibrant, and full of energy, and Lily found herself warming up to her immediately.

On Saturday, as they made their way to the mall, Lily couldn't help but feel a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. She had never been to public school before, and she wasn't sure how she would fit in with the other kids. Her mother, on the other hand, seemed confident and supportive. She held Lily's hand as they walked, offering words of encouragement whenever Lily looked unsure.

The more Lily shopped for new clothes, accessories, and makeup, the more she began to feel a sense of freedom and self-assurance that she hadn't experienced before. Her mother watched her daughter transform before her eyes, marveling at how confident, happy, and even prettier she looked.

They spent the day laughing and bonding. By lunchtime Lily was having a blast trying on dresses and skirts, experimenting with different styles and colors. Her mother carefully selected items that she thought would flatter her figure, reflect her personality, and were softer, classier than anything she normally wore, and of a more romantic feminine style.

They ended up with a mix of casual and dressy outfits, including a few items that could be layered or accessorized in various ways. As they shopped, Lily couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation and excitement building within her. Sure, being a girl is all she had known since birth, but now, having the knowledge of her true gender, everything felt different. She now knew she was harboring a secret that no one around her was aware of and it felt both naughty and empowering.

By the end of the day, Lily had a new wardrobe that was entirely her own, reflecting who she now desired to be. As they headed home, Lily couldn't help but feel grateful for her mother's love and support.