Cinnamon

- identity journey -

Tyler and Ashley had sat in the kitchen, brainstorming ways for Tyler to get money. After last night, He was determined to give Josh the best present ever, to show just how much he loved and appreciated him. Tyler didn't have a lot of ideas, the only hobby he really had was making music. Ashley though, had an epiphany when Tyler began talking about performing.

"Wait Tyler, imagine this... You're a singer, you're part of the LGBTQ community, and I happen to know a place. It's a club right down the street, super inclusive, super accepting of new performers." Ashley said, opening her computer. Tyler's ears perked up, turning to Ashley.

"I'm listening... I've only performed a few times, and those were local shows. I'm new to the whole gay bar idea, as well. What is it like?" Tyler said as he plopped down next to Ashley, looked at the website she had pulled up.

"I'm not queer, but I do have some friends who have dragged me there. It's actually pretty chill, not a very wild place, not lots of people either, but everyone is very nice." Ashley showed Tyler the pictures, and Tyler smiled at the sparkly singers and dancers on the small stage. The little kid seemed to be awakening in him once again, because he smiled big, and hugged Ashley tight.

"Oh Ashley, thank you! This is perfect!" He squealed as he squeezed her. "Are there any gigs available? When can I start? I'm so excited, but so nervous. Is that normal?" Tyler squealed. Ashley laughed. clicking on a link. It was well paid, and it was happening the next day, too!

The two scrolled for a while, reading dress codes and looking for open slots.

"Wait, what if someone recognises me?" Tyler asked, concern lacing his face. It wasn't like he didn't want to be seen there, but a part of him wanted to keep this a secret so not even Josh would know.

"Girl. Your bestie is a makeup expert for a reason. Pick out something cute, something that gets you in that confident mood. For some people that's slutty fits, for some people it's just clothes that make you feel happy. Just pick something out, and let me do my magic..." Ashley smirked, bowing at the end. Tyler smiled big. They had a solid plan now, and Tyler was so excited.

...

A few days later, it was Tyler's first gig. He had picked out a knee-length skirt, pink and shimmery. He also had a white cropped tank top, which had a pink star on the front.

Ashley had helped him shave his legs a few days ago, which Tyler didn't think he would like this much. He continued to wiggle and rub his legs together in his bed for the next hour or so, while Josh laughed at how cute it was.

"I don't wanna wear heels, they sound complicated," Tyler said. Ashley nodded.

"You now understand us. You're an honorary girl now, congratulations!" Ashley said, high fiving Tyler. Tyler smiled and blushed. He didn't know why, but being an honorary girl felt really fun already.

It was even more fun to see his face in the mirror after Ashley was done with it. As a glittery finish, Tyler's eyes and cheeks were tinted pink. Ashley had even put on eyeliner, and Tyler loved it.

"Oh my goodness oh my goodness!!!" Tyler squealed, spinning around and admiring his look in the mirror. "Ashley, how did you do this?"

"Oh, just a bit of fashion designer magic."

...

"So Tyler, the show doesn't start for another few hours, so we can just chill here for a while," Ashley said as the two of them walked into the club. It was a nice color, was the first thing Tyler noticed. The walls were a dark red, with black stars patterned on them. A small stage sat in the corner, with a few people setting up lights.