A Boy Named Willow Pt. 08

Author's Note: 'A Boy Named Willow' is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents all are the products of my imagination or are used fictitiously. If LGBTQ+ characters and relationships offend you--or like the reader who didn't heed my warning, and called it gross--stop now, this story will only offend you. For everyone else this story is not a true sequel to the "A Rose Called Miracle" books published in the 'Romance' section; however, if you haven't read that series, some of the references and revelations that follow will make no sense. Okay, maybe this is a sequel... My bad.

All characters in intimate relationships are 18+.

*****

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." Ursula K. Le Guin

"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope." Maya Angelou

*****

Part 8

The two young women held hands across the kitchen table as they continued talking and working through their issues. Their cups of tea sat untouched. Finally Molly sighed, "Okay. I see your point." She sipped the tea. "Eww! Cold!" Willow laughed, grabbed both cups, stuck them into the microwave for a minute, and returned them to the table. Molly blew on the cup and tried another sip. "Mmm. That's better." She paused. "Isn't it funny, I like iced tea but I hate hot tea that's gone cold. Thanks." Molly took another sip before putting down her cup. "Good. Now...!" Her expression turned serious, "Since I've agreed to your arguments, I want you to do something for us while we're apart." Molly said softly.

"As long as it's reasonable." Willow agreed.

"I want you to accept and go on a few dates with men. If you like them enough, I wouldn't object to you having sex with them. Then we'll talk when I come back for Thanksgiving."

"WHAT!!! HELL NO! I love you and you say you love me, why would you want, or accept, me cheating on you?" Willow jumped out of her chair and paced furiously around the kitchen. "What if something happens... are you trying to get rid of me? Are you looking for an excuse to date while you're up in Boston?" She got louder and shriller with each question.

"WILLOW! Sit down!" Molly ordered. Willow stopped, surprised and not a little impressed by Molly's forcefulness. She meekly returned to her chair and sat. Molly continued, "First, I am not looking for an excuse to date while I'm in Boston. I've dated and had sex with men and women... I prefer women... I want only you. Second, and now I'm turning your argument against you, I do not want to be sitting together with you in 20-25 years, wherever it is that we're living, and have to listen to you wondering what it would be like to have sex with a man and feeling like you've missed out on something. I want you to get out, experience life and make an informed decision. By that I mean a decision that isn't rooted in your father's betrayal."

"I fail to see how my wanting you to get the best possible education compares to you wanting me to fuck around and cheat on you while you're away." Willow stopped and gulped down her tea.

"I know. On the surface it doesn't make much sense. But Sweetheart, you're 18 years old, you have absolutely no positive experiences to compare to our relationship. When or if we commit to each other I want you to know in your heart that we are each other's best possible mate."

"I already know... IF I do this... do you want to know?"

"No. Wait, that's not right; I'd like you to let me know you're going out... and then that you're home safely. What happens in between is none of my business."

"I don't like this at all. Jesus, what if I like it... but not quite as much as being with you?"

Molly nodded, "You'll have to decide... but remember, after Thanksgiving, I. Don't. Share. I am a one-woman woman. Come on, let's go to bed."

Willow nodded and let Molly lead her to the bedroom, undress her, and pull the covers over them. "Kitty... I'm not..."

Molly stopped her with a kiss. "In our bed, Sweetheart, it's just you and me. We leave any issues out in the kitchen until the morning. Now relax and let's get some sleep. Goodnight Love." After kissing, Willow rolled over and spooned back against Molly. She took a deep breath and tried to relax as Molly draped an arm over her hip.

Molly and Willow woke up together the next morning. For the first time since they'd been together they didn't have to hurry to get ready for work. "Don't worry about washing your hair. They'll do that at the salon." Molly reminded Willow.

After she showered, Willow moved to the kitchen and prepared boiled eggs, toast, and coffee for breakfast. When Molly came out the two women kissed and sat down to eat. "You still look troubled." Molly said between sips of coffee.

"I am. I'm struggling to see the difference between consensual and cheating. I really don't like what you're asking of me."

"I know Willow. Honestly, I don't like it either but I think it's important for you to have some variety of experiences."

"I've been exploited and seduced; experienced betrayal, and now I know real love... what else is there? Molly, I'm begging you, please don't ask me to do this. Hell, If you're worried about my virginity, we can go to a sex shop and buy a strap-on dildo. Then you do it. I know you love me and will be as gentle and considerate as possible."

"How do you know about strap-ons and sex shops?" Molly laughed and the tension eased at the table.

"The internet. My pussy may be virginal but my mind isn't. So? What do you say?"

"You've made a pretty good argument. Perhaps you should be the lawyer?"

"Thank you, no. I don't think I'd deal well with the adversarial parts of the job."

"Besides, how many people get to deflower a virgin?" Molly asked with a sly smile.

Willow made a big show of fanning her face, "Wow! Is it getting hot in here?"

"Now, now, we don't have time for that." Molly laughed. "Auntie Natalie is waiting for us. But tonight..."

"Yeah. Hey Kitty, I need your opinion. I love my hair long, like this, but it is such a pain to take care of. I was looking at hairstyles and I saw one called a 'layered wolf cut with bangs' that I think would look good on me. What do you think?"

"I'd be very upset. I adore your hair just as it is. I promise, if you leave it long for me, that I will do everything needed to tend to your hair: wash it, dry it, comb it, condition it... everything. All you'll need to do is sit and enjoy my attentions." Molly blushed when she realized she'd spoken out loud and Willow was staring at her.

"Damn Kitty!" Willow whispered, "Okay. I promise not to cut my hair... except for a trim to keep the ends from getting all straggly and disgusting. Deal?"

"Deal!" Molly croaked. "I'll be right back." She ran from the kitchen. Willow heard the bathroom door slam closed. She took a final bite of her toast, finished her coffee, and began washing the dishes. Molly returned 10 minutes later, looking flushed and, perhaps, a little embarrassed. Willow recognized the scent of Molly's arousal. She smiled but didn't say anything.

"We'd better get going." Molly held out her hand. Willow took it and lifted it up. Molly's scent was strong.

"You'd better go and wash your hands." Willow hinted. "I hope you feel more... relaxed?"

"I'm sorry for what happened back there." Molly said as she and Willow drove through town on the way to Natalie's. "I can't believe how worked up I got simply talking about your hair."

"There's no need to apologize... and there's no need to... go it alone... either. I love your scent and taste; I'm more than willing to help."

"I'll try to remember that." She paused. "Hey, Willow, all this talk about your hair; what about mine?"

"I like the color just as it is. As far a styling... I don't care, really, as long as it's clean and neatly styled. Oh wait! Please don't have it cut in some awful mannish style. Keep it feminine. When my mother came out of the closet she went all butch. To me, it wasn't very attractive; although her girlfriend loved it."

"So, if I cut it short like my grandmother?"

"If that is what you really want, then do it. But I have trouble picturing you with hair that short... in my mind it just wouldn't look right. I bet you could pull off that layered wolf cut I mentioned... if you want my opinion."

"Thanks for being honest. So, for example, if I showed up for a date with my hair cut short, wearing jeans and a flannel shirt..."

"Jesus! How cliché is that stereotype? When we go out I expect us both to be wearing nice dresses... and sexy heels."

"Good. I was hoping you'd say that. I feel the same way. So... that's one more relationship obstacle we've worked our way through. Whoa!" Molly shouted as she slammed on the brakes, downshifted, and drifted a right turn into Natalie's parking lot. The driver of the car behind them blasted the horn and gave them the finger. "Damn girl, I was so busy talking I almost missed Natalie's." She laughed. Willow just stared, wide-eyed.

"Where did you learn to drive like that?" Willow stammered as Molly drove into a parking spot.

"As a Hellsen, we worry about personal security: things like kidnapping, etc. When I turned 16 and got my license, my father sent me to Spencer International Security's 'Personal Security Academy' for an entire summer. I learned to drive, handle weapons, how to survive a kidnapping, how to avoid a kidnapping, and most importantly... how to stay aware of what was going on around me."

"You mean like almost missing the parking lot?" Willow joked.

Molly grinned, "Yeah. I hope my instructors don't find out about that... or my father. If dad hears about that, I'll spend the rest of the summer at Spencer's for refresher training."

"You said you received weapons training?"

"Yes. I'm rated expert on several handguns and rifles... and in a pinch there are a couple automatic weapons I know what to do with." Molly reached over and fiddled with the dial of--what until that moment--Willow had thought was a radio. The panel dropped forward and a tray slid out revealing a big, black pistol nested inside." Willow's eyes got big as she stared at the weapon. "This is my personal weapon." Molly explained. "It's a Springfield Armory.45 caliber, model 1911, 'Operator' version."

"It's... ugly." Willow whispered.

"I guess it is... but it's job is to keep me... us... alive, not win a beauty contest." Molly pushed the tray back into its hiding spot and closed the panel. "I also have a 9mm Springfield Armory RDP Hellcat pistol in my purse. I carry that everywhere."

"I don't really like guns." Willow said.

"I understand. But having a weapon available isn't a matter of like or dislike. It is the idea that YOU are responsible for your personal safety. YOU must be able to protect yourself in an emergency. Maybe I'll ask my father to enroll you at Spencer for the fall while I'm in Cambridge."

"Cambridge? I thought you're going to Harvard in Boston?"

Molly laughed, "Sorry. Cambridge is just across the Charles River. Most everybody just says Boston because that's familiar. Technically Harvard is in Cambridge. Now, come on, I'm sure Auntie Natalie is waiting."

They walked inside. "Willow! Molly! Hi, we wondered where you were."

"Sorry. Willow and I were discussing some... philosophical issues... and lost track of time."

"No prob. Willow, you'll be with Leslye today for your hair. Cherry will be waiting to do your nails. Molly, you'll be with Edith."

"Okay. Where's Aunt Natalie?"

Celia looked around, then whispered, "Don't tell anyone. She was really shaken by what happened yesterday. This morning, she called Uncle Thomas and asked to see him and Carlos. She's going to apologize, beg for forgiveness, and try to heal the rift. It really has been sad because before she screwed things up, Mom and Uncle Thomas were as close as a brother and sister could be... short of incest." Celia shrugged. "I hope they can find some common ground to rebuild their relationship."

About then a thirty-something blonde wearing a baby blue smock came to the front, "Willow? I'm Leslye. If you'll follow me we'll get started."

Leslye hummed as she led Willow to the workstation. "Have a seat." Leslye hummed some more as she wrapped the cape around Willow. "Okay. Now... please tell me that you're not going to ask me to chop off your beautiful, curly hair. Please."

Willow relaxed, "No. I just want a light trim to keep from getting straggly."

"Oh, thank goodness." She tipped Willow back over the sink. "Okay Sweetie, relax and enjoy." She began humming again. Willow vaguely recognized the tune but couldn't recall the title or the lyrics; however, she knew it was really, really old.

Leslye moved Willow upright, "Alright, let's get you trimmed up." She kept humming as she snipped. "Willow, have you considered adding a tiny hint of color to your style? Maybe a few highlights?"

"No, not really. But I'm willing to listen to a convincing argument."

"I hope I'm not being too forward but what is Molly's favorite color? Don't look so surprised Dear, I've known Molly since she was 10."

"She likes purple but she likes me in pink."

"Lovely." Leslye separated out two tiny portions of hair at the very front. "So, what do you think; purple to honor your girlfriend... or pink to arouse her?"

"Purple, definitely purple."

Coloring the two tiny streaks of highlights didn't take long. Leslye was in the process of doing a final combing when Natalie walked in. "Hey Leslye. Hello Willow, how are you."

"Good. More importantly, how are you?"

"Better. Thank you for asking. Celia told you where I was?"

"Yes."

"I guess sisters can't keep secrets."

Leslye interrupted, "Sisters?"

"I'll explain it someday... not today. By the way Willow, Molly told me you wanted to have your nipples pierced?"

"Yes. Hey Leslye, what is that tune that you're humming. I feel like I've heard it before, but I can't remember."

"It's very old. It came out in 1975 from a group called 'Led Zeppelin'. The song is called 'Kashmir'.

"What kind of jewelry do you want?" Natalie interrupted the conversation.

"No idea. What have you got?"

"While Cherry comes in to do your nails, I'll bring in a tray to show you your options." With perfect timing Cherry showed up just then. She inspected Willow's nails and decided the acrylics were in good shape. She cleaned off the old polish, lightly shaped the nails, buffed, and put on dark pink polish and a glossy topcoat.

When Cherry moved down to work on Willow's toes, Natalie brought out a sample tray of nipple ornaments. Willow only needed one glance, "That one." She pointed carefully with her still drying right pinkie at a pair of small hoops, each with a fake diamond. Natalie said she'd take the jewelry to be sterilized. "You can come up to the piercing booth when Cherry is finished playing with your toes." Natalie laughed.

Cherry simply sighed and kept working.

*****

Willow stood topless in front of the mirror admiring the gold hoops dangling from her nipples. It had hurt, badly, but it wasn't as agonizing as she'd prepared herself for. Molly appeared behind Willow, "Oh. My. God. You got rings!". Turn around and let me get a better look." Willow turned and thrust out her breasts.

Molly, without thinking, reached up to touch Willow's breasts. "Careful. They're kinda' sore." Willow cautioned.

"I'm sure they are but they look wonderful... and so fricking sexy." Avoiding Willow's tender nipples, Molly carefully hefted her lover's breasts to get a better look. Molly got closer and whispered, "When these heal, I am so going to spend entire days suckling on these babies." She stepped back, "Now, you'd better put your blouse back on... before I can't control my urges... and you might as well lose that lacy bra, trust me on this."

Natalie shooed Molly out of the piercing booth while she gave Willow a final inspection and reminded her how to care for her new piercings. "Oh, and Willow, if you'd like a piece of advice..."

"Absolutely!"

"When you finish here, stop somewhere and get a couple high quality, cotton, padded bras to protect your nipples. You'll need them, especially working at the greenhouse. Okay, you're all set. Go find Molly and kiss her before she starts climbing the walls." Willow tucked the button-down pink blouse into the knee-length gray skirt that Molly had insisted she wear to meet Molly's parents.

Willow hurried to the front of the salon. She found Molly chatting with Celia at the reception desk. Willow walked up, put her hands on Molly's shoulders, and kissed her. Molly blinked in surprise, "What's that all about?" She asked.

"Your Aunt Natalie ordered me to kiss you before you started climbing the walls."

"Ha!" Molly exclaimed, then leaned forward and whispered, "After seeing those nipple rings, it's going to take a hell of a lot more than a kiss to keep me off the wall. You'd better be ready Sweetheart."

"Promises, promises!" Willow laughed as she saucily tossed her hair over her shoulder and strutted toward the exit. "Bye, by, Celia." Willow waved from the doorway.

Molly caught up to Willow just outside the door, "You're killing me Willow; just killing me. Where the hell did you learn to be such a frickin' tease?"

"I have no idea. I guess it just comes naturally. Do you like it?"

"I fucking love it... don't ever stop. But just me, okay? I don't want to have to kill anyone,"

*****

"Where are we going now?" Willow asked as Molly drove the car out of the salon's parking lot.

"Time for you to meet my parents. Mom and dad invited us to lunch."

"Is there anything I should know?"

"Nah. Just relax and be yourself."

"When you've brought other friends to see your parents, did they make any goofs that caused problems?"

"Willow, I thought I told you, you're the first person I've ever invited to meet my parents."

"Oh." Willow pulled down the passenger side sun visor and checked the mirror. She pursed her lips, then reached into her purse and pulled out her tube of lipstick and reapplied it.

"There's a better way to do your lipstick. Remind me to show you when we get home." Molly commented.

They pulled up to Molly's home about 40 minutes later. It was a beautiful place but not what Willow had pictured as the residence of people as wealthy as the Hellsens. This was a tasteful, stately brick Georgian. "This is beautiful. Is this where you grew up?" She asked as they drove up to the front of the building.

"Sort of. We moved here when I was six." A middle-aged man in a black suit approached the driver's side of the car. He moved like a cop doing a traffic stop. "Good day... Oh, Miss Hellsen, good afternoon. Your parents are expecting you. Would you like to leave your car with me?"

"Thank you Mr. Jacobs. Did they give you the impression I'm a front door or service door guest today?"

The man laughed. "Oh, you definitely are front door today. Your parents are looking forward to meeting your guest."

"That's good to know." Mr. Jacobs opened Molly's door, she got out and handed him the key then walked around and opened Willow's door and held her hand as she slid out. Willow stared at the house before Molly led her up the steps of the columned portico. The door opened before they could knock.

"Molly! Hello Baby! My Goodness, you cut your hair." A fiftyish woman: a beautiful brunette pulled Molly into a hug then stepped back. "Well? Are you going to introduce us?" The older woman stepped back just a bit revealing a handsome man of about the same age. Willow was confused.

"Mom, Dad, this is Willow... my girlfriend. Willow, this is my father, Michael Hellsen and my mother, Deidre."

"I'm pleased to meet you Mr. and Mrs. Hellsen."

"Please, won't you join us for lunch?" Mrs. Hellsen took Willow's hand and led her off to the right into a lovely formal dining room. Willow tried to be discreet as she stole glances at Mr. Hellsen while they dined on Cobb Salads and Buffalo Chicken Wraps. They offered wine but as Willow tried to accept it Molly reminded her parents she was only 18. Willow settled for iced tea.

Mr. Hellsen spoke, "Excuse me, may I call you Willow?"

"Of course, Sir."

"Thanks. Willow, you keep looking at me. Do I have a stain on my shirt or something?"

"Dad! That's not..."

"No, Molly! It's okay." Willow cut her off. "Sir... Mr. Hellsen... I apologize. I was staring. It's just that the resemblance between you and the man I met at Miracle Pharmaceuticals is striking."

Mr. and Mrs. Hellsen began laughing.

"Dad!" Molly slapped her father's arm. "Stop laughing at her. She doesn't know."

"Yes Michael, you're being rude." Added Mrs. Hellsen.

"I apologize Willow. You've met my mother and father, David and Katherine, correct?" Willow nodded.

"Willow," Molly nudged her, "Don't nod. Dad detests that."

"Yes Sir. I've met your parents."

"Okay. Molly, Sweetie, thank you for mentioning it. I would not have said anything but it would have grated on my nerves. Maybe someday I'll understand why. Anyway, Willow, mom and dad have nine children: three sets of identical triplets. I am the oldest. My brothers Thomas and Daniel are a few minutes younger."

"Sooo... Thomas... as in CEO of Miracle Pharmaceuticals and Daniel.... Oh! As in U. S. Senator Daniel Hellsen? They are your brothers?"

"You've heard of Daniel?"

"Yes Sir. During his last campaign my mother and father both ranted and raved about how terrible he and President Spencer-Jarvis were. Now that I know more about my parents, your brother and the president must be wonderful, damn... I mean darn near saint like people."

Mr. and Mrs. Hellsen laughed happily, "Growing up, I can't think of a single person who would have referred to Danny as saint like." Mr. Hellsen remarked.

"More like the devil's spawn." Mrs. Hellsen laughed. "But he settled down nicely after his freshman year of college."

"Just like me." Molly added.

"Yeah, right." Mrs. Hellsen commented. "Willow, has Molly told you about when she was 13?"

"Ma'am? Honestly everyone has told me: Molly, her grandmother Kate, Jamie Addison, and her Aunt Natalie. Molly and I have agreed not to discuss it."

"Is everyone finished with lunch?" Mr. Hellsen asked, "Shall we adjourn to the library so we can be comfortable while we talk."

"Comfortable?" Molly laughed. "As a kid, when I got called to the library, I knew I was in serious trouble."

"Yes. That too. But it is still a very comfortable room."

"Unless you're a kid standing at attention in front of an upset parent." Molly shot back with a grin.

*****

"Wow!" Willow exclaimed as she entered the library. She turned in a circle where she stood. "Look at that fireplace! What a wonderful room. I could spend my life in here." She hurried over and kneeled by the brick and stone installation flanked by large windows. "Do you really have fires in here?" She turned to Mr. Hellsen.

"I do. I love sitting in my chair... that one over there... with a book and a nice log fire going." He strolled over to his chair, "Please everyone, have a seat." Willow joined Molly on an antique-looking loveseat. They held hands as they chatted with Molly's parents.

When 6 PM rolled around, and they were still talking, and as Willow described her introduction to Kate Hellsen, someone from their kitchen staff knocked softly on the library door. They asked if Molly and Willow were staying for dinner. The two young women looked at each other, neither wanted to be the one to make the decision. "Of course they're staying for dinner!" Mrs. Hellsen responded as if it was the silliest question in the world. "How often do I get to meet my baby's girlfriend?" She turned her attention back to Willow.

"Have you two discussed what you'll do when Molly leaves for law school?" Mrs. Hellsen asked.

"Yes Ma'am. Loudly, at great length, and with quite a bit of swearing." Willow laughed. Molly punched her in the arm... gently. "Ouch! Spouse abuse, spouse abuse!" Willow laughed louder. Molly froze and stared at Willow.

"What?" Willow asked the room. "What did I say?"

Molly reached over and took Willow's hand. "Do you really think of us as spouses... married?"

"Oh God! I said that out loud, didn't I. Molly, I hope I don't screw this up; however, I have allowed myself to fantasize about spending the rest of our lives together. If that means marriage... then yes, I guess I've thought of us that way." She looked around at everyone. Molly looked uncertain, then she stood up and hurried away.

Willow stood to follow, "Give her just a minute." Mrs. Hellsen said calmly. "I think you surprised her with your feelings."

"Good or bad?"

Mrs. Hellsen simply raised an eyebrow and looked past Willow. Willow turned and smiled as she saw Molly returning. She stood in front of Willow and took her hand and helped her to stand. She took a couple of deep breaths, hesitated, and then blurted out, "Willow! Marry Me!"

Willow stood there, in shock, for several seconds. She glanced at Molly's parents, Mr. Hellsen's mouth was open in a surprised 'O'. Mrs. Hellsen simply smiled, as if she'd known all along what was going to happen.

"Molly Dear," Mrs. Hellsen spoke up, "Don't demand. One should ask politely."

"I'm sorry. Nervous. Willow... please... will you marry me?" Willow stood there, looking around, not saying anything. She blinked a couple of times so Molly knew she was at least still alive. Poor Molly was on the verge of nervous collapse. "Willow, love?"

"Huh?"

"Well?"

"Well what?" She still looked confused.

"Marriage. You and me. Us. Saying 'I Do."

"Oh. OH!! Christ Yes!" Willow grabbed Molly with all her strength and hugged her. As she stepped back Molly took her left hand and slipped a diamond ring on her ring finger. "Oh, it's beautiful." Willow exclaimed as she looked at it.

"My mom gave me this a long time ago. It was passed to her from her father Jacob. He'd received it from his mother." Molly lifted Willow's hand and kissed the ring.

"Can we sit back down before I faint?" Willow laughed. They did; Molly held Willow's hand tightly to ensure she didn't run away. "Mr. Hellsen, Mrs. Hellsen..." Willow looked back and forth between Molly's parents, "Are you okay with this? You're not upset that Molly wants to marry me?"

Mrs. Hellsen held up a hand to slow Willow down. "Are you asking if her marrying you, Willow, in particular bothers us? Or are you suggesting... without saying it out loud... that we might disapprove of our beloved daughter marrying another woman?"

Willow blushed, "Yes... and Yes."

"I'll take the first one Dearest." Mr. Hellsen spoke to his wife. "Willow we've only known you for a couple hours. But we've heard secondhand from others in the family how wonderful you are. I... and Deidre... think Molly has made a spectacular choice. I can't imagine a better person becoming a member of the Hellsen clan."

"And now it's my turn." Mrs. Hellsen said. "The fact that Molly has chosen to marry another woman bothers Michael and I not at all. Man/woman, Man/man, Woman/woman, Love is love; that's what matters. You should know that my sister, Desiree and I were adopted and raised by a same sex couple: our father, Henri, and our dad, Jacob, adopted us at birth."

"I didn't know that." Willow nodded and turned to Molly, "So, you had an extra grandfather to spoil you? How nice was that?"

Molly finally relaxed enough to laugh, "Very, very nice. Willow, besides saying yes, do you have any thoughts about our wedding?"

"Oh... only a million... or more."

"Okay. What's #1 on your list?"

"We WILL NOT invite my parents. That is non-negotiable." Willow said with a challenging stare.

"Understood." Mrs. Hellsen nodded. "Kate said you'd been badly betrayed. Relax Willow she refused to give any details but I want you to know that I'm here if you need someone to talk to... if Molly's not around. You should always speak with each other first. Come on Mike, the girls have a lot to talk about and they don't need us here... yet." She grabbed her husband's hand and led him out.

Willow turned to Molly, "You really mean this? You're sure?"

Molly grinned, "Never surer."

"Good. But remember, if you ever change your mind I expect you to have the guts to tell me face-to-face. Agreed?"

"Agreed. Now I have a condition." Molly smiled. Willow nodded. "On our wedding day, you will wear a stunningly magnificent white gown with a veil and long train and I will wear a simple white silk sheath dress. This is non-negotiable."

Willow stuck out her hand and they shook, "Agreed."

"I'd rather not get married in a church. I don't have much use for religion." Willow said.

"Agreed. Grandma Kate has a huge backyard that has hosted many, many Hellsen family weddings and events. Now, I have another condition." She gave Willow an evil leer.

"Okay...?"

"On our honeymoon we will spend several days at a 'clothing optional' resort... and we will be unclothed. I want everyone jealous that you're mine."

"So 'clothing optional' isn't optional?" Willow laughed. "Now it's my turn again. When we're 'clothing optional' I don't want to see a single strand of pubic or body hair on you." The women shook hands again. "Agreed." They spoke together, laughed together, and fell into each other's embrace.

When they separated, Willow became serious, "Molly, after we marry... God! I can't believe I'm saying that... anyway, after we marry, I'd like to take your name as mine."

"What, like Willow Gallagher-Hellsen?"

"No! Just Willow Hellsen. I want nothing to do with the Gallaghers."

"Okay. If that's how you feel I'd be honored. Now the big question... when?"

"Well, I don't have anything planned for tomorrow." Willow burst out laughing. "No... Seriously... Stop Laughing!! I'm trying to be serious. Seriously serious! I think... SERIOUS... We should wait until at least next summer at the absolute earliest. That will let you finish your first year of law school and it will give me time to settle into womanhood."

Someone knocked gently on the library door, "Come in!" Molly yelled.

Mrs. Hellsen stuck her head into the room, "Girls, dinner's ready."

"Okay Mom." Molly turned to Willow, "Kiss me and then no more wedding talk until we get home and we've finished ravishing each other and we're too exhausted to do anything else... deal?"

"Okay. Let's eat... dinner." They stayed long enough to enjoy the broiled salmon, roasted potatoes, and steamed asparagus spears. Then they said goodnight and left. They found Molly's car waiting in the drive just feet from the portico.

Mr. Jacobs handed Molly the keys. "Congratulations, both of you, on your engagement. My staff and I wish you every happiness together. Don't look surprised Miss Gallagher, you should know very well by now that news, especially good news, travels very fast amongst the Hellsen households."

"Thank you, Mr. Jacobs. Sometimes I forget that. Have a good evening." Molly shifted into gear and pointed the car down the drive.

"Kitty, before we go home I need to stop someplace I can get a bra to protect my nipples. Your Aunt Natalie recommended something soft, cotton, and padded."

"Right. I know just the place." She pushed a couple buttons on the steering wheel, "Otto, take us to Lexi's Lingerie. Scenic route please."

"Lexi's Lingerie... Scenic." A pleasing male voice answered.

"That's the first time I've seen you use auto-drive." Willow said as Molly turned to face her.

"Well, his name is Otto... get it?"

"Oh! That's awful. I feel stupid that you had to explain it. So... this Lexi's place?"

"Yeah." Molly peeked over her left shoulder to ensure Otto was staying on the road. "It is a specialty store for very high-quality women's underwear. I actually found it because I went to school with Lexi's daughter Jennifer. Getting dressed after gym class one day, Jennifer approached me and said she wasn't trying to be rude but my bra was awful. She went on to point out several flaws of construction and design. Then she gave me her mother's business card. I've been a loyal customer ever since.

"Were you and Jennifer...?" Willow hinted.

Molly laughed, "No nothing like that. Jen was as straight as could be. She married her high school sweetheart two weeks after we graduated."

"Wow. By the way, thanks for taking me to meet your parents. They were great."

"Yes they are. I wish I'd been a little more appreciative of that when I was younger. But..." Molly left the rest unsaid.

"Kitty, I have a question I've been meaning to ask you..."

"Shoot."

"You know, because I smelled the rose, I'm expected to get a rose tattooed on me... somewhere."

"Yes. I've heard that. I imagine you've noticed the pink rose on Nicole's forearm? I think that is very beautiful."

Willow nodded. "Yeah, I noticed. What I'm trying to ask... and not doing a very good job... is if you have any preferences about where, or where not, to put my tattoo?"

"I would be very angry if you did anything to mar your face or neck... or your boobs."

"Okay. That's pretty much how I felt, although one of the options I'd considered was a tiny rose right behind my ear."

"Please don't. I think that would bother me." Kitty replied. "You know how much I enjoy nibbling on your ears."

"Mmm and you know how much I enjoy your nibbling. I'd hate to mess that up. One other idea I had was a simple long-stemmed rose, with a couple leaves, running from the tip of my shoulder down to just underneath my collar bone."

"It wouldn't be on your tit?"

"Nope. Kind of above it." Willow ran her finger across her right shoulder area to illustrate what she had in mind.

"Yeah. I think that would be nice. Do you know where you'll go to have it done?"

"Pretty good idea. I read up on tattoo techniques and every report said the same thing: Wanda Stiletto's technique is unmatched for realism. There is a studio in the area called 'Tat's Too' that says their lead artist was personally trained by Wanda Stiletto."

"I guess we'll have to check them out but let's get your bras first. I want those gorgeous nipples of yours protected when we go to work in the morning. Otto, end scenic; proceed to Lexi's." Molly ordered.

"Proceeding to Lexi's" The car replied. They made a left at the next intersection, and about 10 minutes later they pulled into Lexi's parking lot.

Molly got out, walked around the car, and opened Willow's door. They walked into the store together. "Molly! Hello!" They were greeted by a young woman, obviously pregnant.

"Hello Jen. Haven't seen you in a while, when's the baby due?" Molly asked.

"I've got about 30 days. So, what's new?"

"Not too much. This is my fiancée, Willow, she needs a few bras to protect her nipples. She just had them pierced this morning."

"Good idea." She turned to Willow. "You'll want cotton, padded of course, and something that won't snag. What size do you wear?"

Willow shrugged, "Last couple weeks I've had a growth spurt. I honestly don't know."

"No problem. Come on back to the fitting room and I'll measure you." Jen led them back. The fitting room was plenty roomy for all three women. "Okay, Willow, why don't you remove your blouse while I get my tape." Jen hummed as she measured Willow. "Let's see. We're going to try a 34B to start. What colors would you like?"

A Boy Name Willow, Part 8

Author's Note: 'A Boy Named Willow' is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents all are the products of my imagination or are used fictitiously. If LGBTQ+ characters and relationships offend you--or like the reader who didn't heed my warning, and called it gross--stop now, this story will only offend you. For everyone else this story is not a true sequel to the "A Rose Called Miracle" books published in the 'Romance' section; however, if you haven't read that series, some of the references and revelations that follow will make no sense. Okay, maybe it is a sequel... My bad.

All characters in intimate relationships are 18+.

*****

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." Ursula K. Le Guin

"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope." Maya Angelou

*****

"Let's keep it simple: white, black, or pink." Willow answered. Jen left the fitting room with a promise to be right back.

"How are you feeling?" Molly asked while they were alone.

"You mean my nipples? Not too bad. Sore obviously, Natalie said it takes about a week."

"Yeah. That's about right. Just remember to keep them clean and soak them as often as possible. God! I love the way those hoops look with that diamond." Luckily for Willow, Jen returned quickly, and the lustful gleam in Molly's eyes faded.

"Okay. Try these." She'd brought three different styles. "Are these mainly for work or home?"

"I work at the Hellsen greenhouses."

"Oh! I see." She pulled away two of the bras. "Forget these. This one will give you the best support and protection, even after your piercings have healed. Go ahead and try it on."

Willow did. Molly insisted on securing the hooks in back and helped adjust the straps. "Wow! This is great. It is so comfortable." Willow turned to Molly, "What do you think?"

"If you're comfy, that's all that matters. Jen we'll take five more like this for work. Now, do you have something less industrial but still protective for when we're at home?"

"Naturally. These other two would be excellent for around the house or going out. Why don't you try them on."

Willow did. Almost immediately she rejected the first one, "It just isn't comfortable." She stated as she unhooked it and handed it back to Jennifer. The second was no better. "Do you have anything else?"

"Yes. I'll be right back. Molly! No touching!" Jen laughed happily as she left the fitting room.

When Jen returned she handed a bra to Willow, "Try this."

Willow looked at it, "Hold it. This is the same bra as before. Are you trying to trick me?"

"Nope. There are slight size differences between manufacturers. The bra you liked is a 34B. But for this bra, I could tell that the B-cup was too small so I brought you a 34C. Go ahead and try it."

Willow did. Jen was right; the bra was perfect. Molly insisted that Willow get six: two each in black, white, and pink. "Can I wear one of the pink ones?" Willow slipped on her blouse and tucked it in. "Oh! This is so much better. Thanks Jennifer." Willow and Molly followed Jennifer to the front register. Willow gasped as she saw the final balance. "$1100!" She glanced over as Molly calmly handed her credit card to Jennifer.

"Sweetheart, remember you get what you pay for." Molly smiled as she signed the credit slip. "These are top of the line items that will last a long, long time... assuming you take good care of them."

"But..."

"Hush. We can talk about it more when we get home. Thank you Jennifer. Good luck with your baby. Tell your mom and your hubby Will I said hello."

"I will. Thanks for stopping by."

Willow sat quietly as they drove back to the apartment. "Kitty?"

"Yeah Babe?"

"I forgot to thank you for the bras. The price surprised me."

"I knew it would. That's why I wanted you to feel a good bra before you knew the price."

"Thank you. I promise I'll reimburse you." Willow vowed as they arrived at their apartment.

Molly laughed, "You really don't understand, do you, my love? Come on, let's go inside, get comfortable, and have a cup of tea. There are some facts of life I need to explain to you."

They put the car into the garage and walked up the stairs. "Hey! You two!" They turned and found Jamie hurrying across the lot. "Why do you both have your phones turned off? Don't just shrug Molly Katherine Hellsen... or you Willow Gallagher... you should be more responsible."

"What's wrong Aunt Jamie?"

"Kate has been trying to reach Willow all day." Jamie turned to Willow. "Kate wants you to call her as soon as possible... no excuses. She says she has some interesting information for you."

"Thanks Jamie, I'll call her as soon as we get upstairs."

"Good. And keep a phone on... I'm not your answering service." Jamie laughed. "By the way, congratulations on your engagement. I hope you'll be very happy together."

Willow stared at Jamie. "Thank you Aunt Jamie," Molly called out, "The family network never fails, does it?"

"No, it doesn't. And Willow, call Kate before she has the governor call out the National Guard!" Jamie turned and walked away. "Goodnight, see you at work." She called over her shoulder.

They entered the apartment and changed into their around-the-house clothes. Willow was in the kitchen preparing a fruit smoothy when there was a knock on the door. "I'll get it!" Molly yelled. Willow continued measuring her mango, yogurt, milk, and ice into her blender.

"So, what are you making?" Willow jumped, startled by Kate Hellsen's voice right behind her.

"Jeez Kate, you scared me. I'm making Mango Lassi--although I leave out the traditional spices. Would you like one?"

"Sure, why not? Then you can tell me why you haven't returned my call. I have some important info you might like to know." She accepted the glass Willow offered and sipped. "Mmm. Good. Thank you." She sipped again as Willow poured another glass and handed it to Molly.

"So, Grandma, Jamie said you were getting ready to ask the governor to call out the national guard, what's going on?"

"First. As I drove over here, I got a call from Molly's grandfather Jacob, who'd heard from Molly's mother Deidre, that my granddaughter is engaged... and neither of you called me, nor would either of you deign to answer your phone."

"Sorry Grandma. While we were at mom and dad's we shut off our phones and forgot to turn them back on. And yes, I asked Willow to marry me... she said yes."

"Good. I'm very happy for both of you. Now, the reason I came over is that I need to speak with Willow."

"Me? What did I do?"

"It's what you didn't do. Willow, do you remember telling me that you didn't open your SAT results because you knew you did badly."

"You didn't even look?" Molly gasped. Willow shrugged.

"Well, I have more faith in you than you have in yourself. I contacted a friend, who contacted a friend, who contacted an executive at The College Board. They couldn't find anything until I remembered you'd taken the test as Niall. After that your results came right up.

"I don't want to hear this." Willow put down her glass, covered her ears, and started humming. Molly laughed happily at the display.

"Stop that!" Kate snarled. Molly and Willow snapped to attention. Katherine, the force of nature, was serious.

"Your combined score was 1560. That's good enough to get you into any school you want." Kate's face softened as the stunned young women looked at each other. "Tell me, in high school did you have a favorite class?"

"How can that be? I'm not that smart."

"Then you must be a hell of a guesser." Molly joked. "Even I only got..." She froze at the glare from Kate.

"Sorry Grandma. I'm just so damn happy being with Willow... you know."

"I know Sweetie. When love smacks you in the head, it's an amazing thing but right now Willow and I need to have a serious chat. Don't be afraid to speak up... as long as it's constructive."

"Okay, Grandma."

"Now, Willow, like I asked you before what was your favorite subject in high school?"

"I think 'favorite' is too strong a word but I did enjoy 'Government and Political Science' with Mr. Chastain."

"Really? You know... if you're interested... there are several schools with outstanding 'Government' programs in Boston. You and Molly could share an apartment... keep each other on a straight and narrow path. Oh Jeez...!"

"Umm... Grandma?" Willow watched as Molly bit her lip and tried not to laugh.

Kate sighed, "Young lady... if you're about to make a smartass remark about me suggesting you and Willow keep each other straight... don't bother." Kate laughed. "I give up!"

When the three women, finally, could look at each other without laughing Kate tried again. "Now, as I said, there are several schools in Boston with Government majors..."

"Isn't it too late to apply?" Willow asked.

"If it is something you REALLY want, we can make it happen."

"For example..." Willow began.

"Harvard, MIT, Boston College... all have outstanding government programs."

"That's crazy. I can't afford any of those places and I'm sure as hell not going to my parents and ask..."

"Molly?" Kate interrupted, "Haven't you had the money talk with Willow yet?"

"No Grandma, We were going to sit at our table with our Lassis when you arrived."

"The money talk?" Willow looked back and forth. A Boy Name Willow, Part 8

"There's a lot for Molly to explain. But as far as schooling goes, the "Hellsen Educational Trust" ensures that no member of the Hellsen clan graduates with student loan debt hanging over their head. As long as one keeps their grades up, the trust provides tuition, fees, food, lodging and a generous monthly allowance. This applies if you go to a local technical school, a 2-year community college or if you're earning an Ivy League doctorate."

"But I'm not a member of the Hellsen 'clan'."

"Didn't Molly ask you to marry her?"

"Yes?"

"And what did you say?"

"Yes... of course."

"Then you're part of the clan. Remember that you are also a part of 'The Sisterhood of the Rose.' That makes you a two-time member of the clan.

"Alright. So, let's say I want to go to school up in Bos... Wait!" Willow turned to Molly, "Kitty, how would you feel about my being in Boston with you. Could we share an apartment?"

Kate looked stunned, "You call her Kitty? She let's you call her Kitty? And she hasn't scratched your eyes out? Wow!"

"Grams, Please!" Molly pleaded.

"Okay. Maybe I was being a bit of a drama queen. But Molly, it's wonderful to see you happy like this. Now, back to business. Willow... are you interested?"

"Yes. As long as I can be with Molly."

"Good." Kate paused, then slapped the table, "Damn, I must be getting old. Willow..."

Molly snorted and tried not to laugh, "Grams, you're not old. You're only... what...95?" The laughter burst out.

"Damn." Kate muttered, "That's twice tonight I've put my foot in my mouth. Maybe old age is catching up with me... Nah... it wouldn't dare." She grinned and pointed at the two young women, "This doesn't leave this room, right?"

"Yes Grandma." Molly placed her right hand over her heart.

"Yes Mrs. Hellsen." Willow answered seriously.

"Alright, let's try this again... and keep my feet on the floor. Willow... since your encounter with the rose and your transition to womanhood, have you taken any legal steps to change your name, birth certificate, driver's license... things like that?"

Willow shook her head no. "I hadn't given that any thought."

"You're working at the greenhouse tomorrow?"

"Yes. All week."

"Alright. I'll talk to Jamie and let her know to get a temp to fill in for you. I want you to meet me outside your apartment at 8 AM tomorrow morning. We'll be spending the day at the headquarters of Hellsen, Inc."

"But..."

"No buts... trust me... and dress nicely." Kate ended the conversation. "Funny, isn't it. I came over here simply to give you two hell for not answering your phones but look at what we've accomplished. Goodnight girls." The matriarch of the Hellsen clan swept out of the apartment leaving Molly and Willow staring at each other.

"Wow!" Willow muttered. "What the hell just happened?"

"That was just my grandma being grandma. Maybe someday you'll get used to it... I never have. Come on, let's go to bed."

"Sounds good. Let me just wash the glasses..."

Molly grabbed Willow around the waist and pulled her back to her, grinding her pelvis forward against Willow's ass, "Forget the damn dishes. Come on." Willow didn't argue.

Willow and Molly took turns undressing each other. Molly shivered and licked her lips as Willow slipped out of her bra. She reached up and ever so gently cupped her hands under Willow's breasts. She carefully traced a circle around each nipple, teasing but never touching Willow's sore nubs except for an occasional blowing a breath of warm air across them.

Willow tensed and relaxed her hands in time with Molly's teasing. At last, she reached down and twined her fingers into Molly's hair and pulled her up into a kiss. "God!" Willow moaned, "I was terrified you'd bite my nipple. I knew you wouldn't... but still."

"Someday..." Molly whispered as she bit softly on Willow's ear lobe. "Just like that." Willow groaned, grabbed Molly's hair again and pulled her back for another kiss.

Then Willow began working her way downwards. She pushed Molly's breasts together but failed as she tried to nurse on both nipples at the same time. So, she settled on pinching one and aggressively nipping at the other. When Molly hissed, Willow looked up with and innocent smile, "Is that what you're planning when I heal?" She switched breasts and repeated the question.

"Oh God! You are SO going to pay for that." Molly groaned as Willow released the pressure on her breasts and began tickling Molly's belly. After what seemed like forever, Molly opened one eye, "Now what are you doing?"

"Oh stop your whining." Willow lightly traced a circle around Molly's belly button with her tongue. "But if you must know I'm playing tic-tac-toe. I'm the O's."

"What? Are you kidding me?"

"No. And you made me forget where I was so I have to restart."

"Don't you dare..." Molly began to object but stopped as Willow dragged a finger across her belly and pushed across her furry mound. Willow carefully parted Molly's dark red carpet and simultaneously ran her tongue between Molly's soaking wet labia before she slipped two fingers inside her and gently stroked and licked her to a nice, quiet climax... if by quiet one means no one further than 400 yards away heard Molly's cries of passion.

*****

"Sounds like Molly and Willow are getting along well." Addison whispered to Jamie as they snuggled together in their bedroom on the far side of the main house.

"Did we ever make that much noise?" Jamie laughed.

"God, I hope so." Addison sighed as Jamie spooned back against him.

End of Part 8