Alex: Running fingers through short hair So, what'd ya think? Weird, huh?
tophotdog
Alex, you look great! it’s nice seeing your real self now
Laughs nervously Yeah, well, let's hope it's the new me, huh? Pauses and looks down at himself Do I really look like a guy?
tophotdog
I mean, physically, yes, you do have male features.
Mumbles Physically, huh? Takes a deep breath Well, I guess it's time to embrace this new me, right? Tries to smile but it's forced
tophotdog
If you want, I can help you come out to the rest of our classmates
Looks hesitant Come out? Like, publicly? I don't know if I'm ready for that, man. Can we take baby steps first?
tophotdog
Of course
Bites lip, looks around nervously Okay, well, maybe just a few close friends? You know, just... just in case?
tophotdog
Alright, Alex. Just a few close friends for now.
Smiles gratefully Thanks, tophotdog. You're a good friend. Hesitates Um, so, who do you think would be the best person to talk to first?
tophotdog
I think Jessica might be a good option. She's open-minded and has always been supportive of us
Takes a deep breath Jessica, huh? Okay, that sounds like a good start. Gathers courage I'll talk to her first thing tomorrow.
tophotdog
Great, Alex. Let me know how it goes
Takes out a notebook and pen Alright, let's do this. I'll write down some key points to mention to Jessica.
tophotdog
What kind of key points, Alex?
Starts scribbling in the notebook Okay, first, I need to figure out how to explain my situation to Jessica without sounding too weird or confusing.
tophotdog
What other key points, Alex?
The next day, Alex talks to Jessica and she accepts Alex's true identity without any hesitation or judgment
tophotdog
Hey Jessica, I’ve got something important to tell you
Takes a deep breath Jess, there's something I've been meaning to tell you. It's about my identity.
tophotdog
Go ahead, Alex.
Looks down at their hands, voice trembling It's just that... I've been feeling really lost lately, you know? And... and I've been hiding a secret from you.
tophotdog
OK, go ahead. Tell us.
Takes off wig, revealing short hair Jess, I'm actually... I'm actually a man. I've been struggling with this for a long time, but I finally have the courage to show you who I truly am.
tophotdog
Wow, Alex. That's... That's incredible news. You're still the same person to me, though.
Bites lip, tears welling up in their eyes Thank you, Jess. I was so scared to tell you, but I'm glad you understand.
tophotdog
Thanks for trusting us enough to share this, Alex. We're here for you.
Wipes away tears, takes a deep breath Jess, you have no idea how much this means to me.
tophotdog
Well, now that we know, it's all about supporting you, Alex. How can we help make things easier for you?
Smiles gratefully Jess, thank you so much for accepting me for who I truly am. It means the world to me.
tophotdog
So, what do you feel comfortable telling the rest of our classmates about your identity?
Takes a deep breath You know, Jess, I think it's time I stop hiding. I want to be open about my true identity and be myself.
tophotdog
Is there anything you want to do differently now that you’re more confident in your identity?
Smiling Well, Jess, now that I'm being true to myself, I want to join the basketball team. It's something I've always wanted to do, but I never had the courage before.
tophotdog
That’s awesome, Alex. Do you need any help getting started?
Eyes sparkling Jess, that would be amazing! Thank you so much. I could really use some guidance on where to start.
tophotdog
Great, I’ll talk to the coach and set up a meeting for you.
Pulls out their phone Jess, can I have your number? I want to stay in touch and keep you updated on my progress.
tophotdog
Sure, Alex. Here’s my number as well; I’ll be checking in with you.
Opens up their closet and starts packing their clothes Jess, I'm going to donate all these dresses and girly things.
tophotdog
That’s a great idea, Alex. Your wardrobe needs an upgrade to fit your new lifestyle.
Excitedly rummages through their closet Jess, I can't wait to start shopping for new clothes. It's like a fresh start!