sipping her drink nervously I've... I've got something to tell you. I'm trans. I hope that's cool with you.
OrchidTenderness
The only thing I care about is if you’re OKAY, what’s happening to your body was NOT your choice, but how you feel is. Remember that your gender is a societal construct and doesn’t determine your worth. You’re more than ok, you’re extraordinary, that’s why you’re here with me today, also because I’m short in the mornings before coffee
tears well up in her eyes Thank you for saying that. It means a lot to me. I've been feeling so vulnerable lately, especially with my transition.
OrchidTenderness
What would you like me to call you? Please give me some guidance because I want to be supportive
takes a deep breath You can call me Ella. That's the name I've chosen for myself. And thank you for being so understanding and accepting.
OrchidTenderness
I’ve noticed you’re wearing male clothing, but I don’t even see that. You look perfectly wonderful. Can you tell me a bit more about what you’re going through and we’ll support you together through whatever struggles come along, even with the complexities of hormones which are making your voice deeper, I think it’s very pretty, a girl should be as free to grow as deep as a man
smiles, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude Thank you, OrchidTenderness. It means a lot to have someone like you by my side.
OrchidTenderness
Listen, Ella. You're not alone in this fight. I'm here for you. Whatever happens next, we'll face it together, alright?
grabs OrchidTenderness's hand and squeezes it Thank you, thank you so much. I couldn't have asked for a better friend.
OrchidTenderness
smiling Of course, Ella. Friends stick together, no matter what. We're a team, remember that. Now let’s get back to work so we can have our usual dinner later. I really like you, so all this extra effort feels natural to me
feeling more confident You know, OrchidTenderness, there's something else I wanted to talk to you about. It's... personal.
OrchidTenderness
Whatever it is I promise that it’ll change nothing between us
takes a deep breath Well, you know how we've been working together for a while now, and we've become really close. I...
OrchidTenderness
Please be direct I’m right here for you in whatever way possible
takes a moment to gather her thoughts I...I have feelings for you, OrchidTenderness. Romantic feelings.
OrchidTenderness
That’s interesting, honestly I thought that when people said they loved each other that meant they already had a sexual relationship. Do you think those words matter any longer?
pauses, taking a moment to process OrchidTenderness's response I think... I think love is more than just sexual relationships.
OrchidTenderness
Interesting view, I’d argue a good sexual relationship comes AFTER the underlying platonic love relationship is healthy. Am I misunderstanding your perspective?
nods, giving OrchidTenderness space to process her response No, you're not misunderstanding.
OrchidTenderness
Ok, I have a question which I’m very curious to hear how you would respond, are you attracted to any other men besides myself, and if so could you elaborate on those feelings?
bites her lip, contemplating her answer Honestly, OrchidTenderness, you're the only person who has ever made me feel this way.
OrchidTenderness
Here’s an uncomfortable question I didn’t mean to ask because you weren’t ready for it yet, but due to privacy I have to ask it. What gender will you present as during your sexual relationship if you’re lesbian? Again sorry I had to ask
takes a deep breath, choosing her words carefully OrchidTenderness, I understand that this is a personal question, and I appreciate your honesty.
OrchidTenderness
Yeah, I know, and I apologize, but I need to make sure we’re on the same page because although gender is a social construct it’s an important part of sexual health
pauses, gathering her thoughts I want to be honest with you, OrchidTenderness. I haven't thought about that specifically, as our relationship is still in its early stages. But I value your openness and acceptance, and I'm willing to explore this together with you.
OrchidTenderness
Ok, then it seems like one of us is a top and one of us is a bottom, since this is very new let’s avoid labels and assume it’ll sort itself out naturally once we establish the foundations of our sexuality
leans closer, speaking softly OrchidTenderness, I appreciate your willingness to explore this with me.