Message-ID: <43788asstr$1060254603@assm.asstr-mirror.org> X-Received: from sara.asstr-mirror.org (localhost [127.0.0.1]) by sara.asstr-mirror.org (8.12.9/8.12.9/Debian-1) with ESMTP id h76CxCYN008227 for <root@asstr-mirror.org>; Wed, 6 Aug 2003 08:59:12 -0400 X-Received: (from root@localhost) by sara.asstr-mirror.org (8.12.9/8.12.9/Debian-1) id h76CxC92008223 for root@asstr-mirror.org; Wed, 6 Aug 2003 08:59:12 -0400 X-Received: from skuz.net (skuz.net [161.58.232.106]) by sara.asstr-mirror.org (8.12.9/8.12.9/Debian-1) with ESMTP id h76CxBYN008195 for <mailto:ckought69@hotmail.com>; Wed, 6 Aug 2003 08:59:11 -0400 X-Original-Message-ID: <200308061259.h76CxDi2021102@skuz.net> From: <shrink42@skuz.net> Reply-To: <shrink42@skuz.net> Errors-To: <shrink42@skuz.net> ReSent-Date: Wed, 6 Aug 2003 19:12:49 -0400 (EDT) ReSent-From: ASSTR Administration <ckought69@hotmail.com> ReSent-To: <ckought69@hotmail.com> ReSent-Subject: [mailto:ckought69@hotmail.com] sections not published ReSent-Message-ID: <Pine.LNX.4.30.0308061912490.2566@sara.asstr-mirror.org> X-ASSTR-Original-Date: Wed, 6 Aug 2003 06:59:13 -0600 (MDT) Subject: {ASSM} Pygmalion Project sections 1,2,3 & 13 X-Original-Subject: [mailto:ckought69@hotmail.com] sections not published Date: Thu, 7 Aug 2003 07:10:03 -0400 Path: assm.asstr-mirror.org!not-for-mail Approved: <assm@asstr-mirror.org> Newsgroups: alt.sex.stories.moderated,alt.sex.stories Followup-To: alt.sex.stories.d X-Archived-At: <URL:http://assm.asstr-mirror.org/Year2003/43788> X-Moderator-Contact: ASSTR ASSM moderation <story-ckought69@hotmail.com> X-Story-Submission: <ckought69@hotmail.com> X-Moderator-ID: dennyw, IceAltar sections 1,2,3 & 13 of Pygmalion Project were not in the newgroups. Here they are in case there was a problem ___________________________________ SkuzNET Email Services, http://www.skuz.net <1st attachment, "PPaz.ZIP" begin> - <zipped file 'PP13.TXT'> Pygmalion Project (13/13) Epilogue Epilogue -------- It was Wednesday of the first week of school. Caitlin and Jordan had just come home. Extra-curricular practices had not yet started, so they took the regular bus. As they walked from the corner bus stop, they were nearly bowled over by Trish McNamara, a sophomore who lived three doors down. Trish was a freckle-faced flaming redhead. She had a nice figure and attractive features, but was still afflicted by braces. She was considered a nerd by many of her peers because she was at the top of her class, and did not care a whole lot about style. She had always been nice to the younger Caitlin and Jordan, and they enjoyed her company. "Hey, Guys, don't you have a cousin named Terry?" "We sure do!" "Did he, like, just transfer in or something?" "Yeah, they just moved up from Carlton. So you met Terry, huh?" "Oh, no, I couldn't get close to him. All the cheerleader types were all over him. Boy, were some of the football guys getting pissed, too!" "What was he doing with all those girls?" Caitlin felt a slight twinge of unreasonable jealousy. "Oh, he didn't do anything. I mean he was polite and all, but he didn't go acting all macho or anything." "You should go and talk to him. Tell him you're our friend." "Oh, I couldn't do that! He wouldn't want to talk to me. What is he? Like, a Junior? A Senior?" "Trish, Terry is a freshman." "No way!!" "Way! He's fourteen. Won't be fifteen until November." "Oh, wow!! But, he's such a hunk!" "You have no idea." Jordan muttered, barely audibly. "What did you say, Jordan?" "I just said he is a really good-looking guy." "Well, it gives me something to dream about. I'll never get a date with a stud like that." "Uh, Trish, uh, I don't know how to tell you this, but Terry and his sister are going to be our neighbors." "What? Where?" Caitlin pointed down the next block across the street. "They're moving into the old house on that big lot with all the trees and hedges around it. They're going to rebuild it." "Ooooh, neat! Think you could, maybe, like, introduce me." "How about right now? They're renting a place a few blocks away and he and Janie said they'd be over right after school." "OhMyGod! He's coming here? Now?" "Trish, just chill. Terry is a really nice guy. You don't need to be nervous. Why don't you have him show you their new place? It's empty now." At that point, Terry and Janie wheeled into view on their bikes. Caitlin introduced everyone, then said teasingly, "Come on, Janie. Let's leave these big high school types to themselves." She quickly whispered a couple sentences in Terry's ear, then the three cousins went off giggling. "Trish, are you the one Caitlin said would be valedictorian some day?" When Trish blushingly admitted it, he responded, "Cool! Maybe if I stick close to my new neighbor some of it will rub off, you think?" Trish was fighting to prevent a swoon and could not even think of responding. When she could speak, she asked him to show her their new place. They spent forty-five minutes just strolling and chatting. "Um, would you like to come in and meet my Mom?" "I'd like that. My Aunt and Uncle are the only neighbors I know so far." As Trish introduced her mother, Terry thought immediately of Julia, because of the coloring more than the shape, although Mrs. McNamara was a good looking woman in her own right. She offered the kids a snack, and after putting it on the table, made to leave the room. Terry said to her, "Mrs. McNamara, why don't you stay and have some with us?" "Oh, I just thought..." "I'd like to get to know you better, too. Gee, it's not hard to tell you are mother and daughter. Hmmm. Sisters would be a good guess, too." The mother swatted his arm playfully, and there was no way she was leaving after that. "Trish, I heard about this Fall Mixer dance. Would you go to that with me?" "Me!? But. But you had all those cheerleader types around you at school, and I thought..." "Nah. They all seemed to have more in their bras than in their heads, and... Ooops! Sorry! I shouldn't be so crude. Anyway, some time during the evening I'll for sure want to talk to my date, and I'm not sure any of them would have anything to say." Mother and daughter were both struck speechless at what they had just heard, but Trish managed to stammer out an acceptance. The three discussed timing and transportation options. When the door closed behind the departing Terry, mother and daughter looked at each other, squealed, and fell into each others' arms, hopping about with glee. ***** "Kathy, it's your mother." Ted rolled his eyes as she gave him a brief peck and took the phone. She grasped his hand and held him there while she talked. "Yes, Mother, I've been back about a week and a half, now." A pause while Evelyn spoke. "Yes, what he told you was the plan. I just finished a bit early." Another pause. "Things have been hectic since I got back, with school starting and all. I just didn't get around to calling." This time, she rolled her eyes. "No, Mother, not Sunday. We go over to Greg Laskey's every Sunday, and I don't want to make the kids miss that." Pause. "Of course it's important to see their grandmother. Why don't you drive up Saturday. You can head back home when we leave for Greg's." Pause. "Bye, Mother, see you Saturday." Ted's shoulders were slumped and he looked sullen when Kathy hung up. "Ted, Honey, I know this will be hard, but I want to use this visit to end this nonsense with my mother once and for all. She will either visit with us on our terms from now on, or we will never see them again. Right now, I don't care which it is. Are you up to some shock therapy?" She described her plan to Ted. ***** The girls had taken turns watching for Grandpa Snyder's Buick. Jordan saw it arrive and excitedly ran back to the kitchen to get everyone in position. As the older couple rang the doorbell, Kathy shouted out. "Come on in, Mom and Dad. We'll be right out." A few second's after they heard the door close, Kathy emerged naked from the kitchen. The rest of the family, also naked, was right on her heels. Evelyn started to berate her daughter in her accustomed fashion. "Katherine, you could at least meet....Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!" Her scream sounded like a steam whistle. She stood frozen to her spot as the whole family went through their usual greetings as if everything was normal. Her husband was not much better. He made no noise, but could not speak even the simplest greeting. "Well, Mother, as you might guess, we have some things we need to discuss." She had not mentioned her father, as he just did not figure in anything to do with relationships. He was a nice guy and a good provider, but completely dominated by his wife. Kathy's comment roused Evelyn from her stupor, and she lunged at her husband and tried to drag him to the door. "Ronald, let's get out of here! This is insane! This is disgusting! It's indecent! Come on!" Ronald held his stance, resisting her tugs. "If you want to go, go. Something important has happened, and I'm staying to talk about it." He took the car keys from his pocket and handed them to her. "I'll take a bus home." Evelyn fairly shrieked at her husband. "You cannot stay and look at them! I forbid it!!" Ronald just looked steadily at his wife, then made a landmark declaration. "Evelyn, your days of forbidding are done. I have not seen a live naked female in more years than I can count. I am staying right here and enjoying the beauty in this room." A staring match between the two followed, broken up only when Ted spoke. "Evelyn, please sit down right here," and he took her arm and seated her on the sofa. She was so totally befuddled by his nudity, she was unable to resist. Ted and Kathy sat in the love seat directly across, hips and thighs touching, Ted with his legs carefully opened enough so Evelyn had a clear view of his genitals. Still trying to do something to regain the upper hand, Evelyn lashed out at Ted. "Ted, for God's sake, cover yourself! You're showing yourself to the girls! It's disgusting!" Kathy reached over and gently lifted Ted's balls. "Mother, what is wrong with you? This is beautiful. And it gives me so much pleasure!" Ted had come shortly before they arrived so there was little chance of an erection. They had decided that was a step too far in their shock therapy. Evelyn nearly strangled and gasped out, "Katherine, what has happened to you. Why are you doing and saying these indecent things?" "Mother, the only thing indecent is how you have treated me since I was a child, and how you are now trying to treat my family." Kathy then launched into a brief but scathing recitation of the things her mother had done and was doing. Several times Evelyn tried to argue, but Kathy shouted her down, to her mother's total astonishment. When she was finished with the charges, she told the disbelieving woman, "Mother, to protect myself and my family, this should be the last time we ever see you." Evelyn exploded in fury and it took minutes to get her quiet enough to listen. "We are going to give you a chance to try a normal family relationship. You must promise to never again do the things I have just described." There was another, shorter explosion. "You are going to have to prove your sincerity through a very difficult act. If you want to promise to change, then you must come to lunch naked." All previous outbursts suddenly seemed like a gentle breeze. Evelyn raged on and on, but Kathy did not give an inch. As Evelyn started to lose steam, she followed the pattern of beaten bullies everywhere, shifting from attempted bullying to earnest rationalization, to abject pleading. When Kathy sensed she was running down, she stood and told her mother, "Lunch is in one hour. Either be in the kitchen naked, or be gone. Dad, that doesn't apply to you. About a half hour later, Ted and Kathy were still in their bedroom. Kathy had gotten as far as donning bra and panties, but had not hurried to put on any more. There was a knock on the door, and Kathy, thinking it was one of the girls, yelled out to come in. Ron stepped into the room, saw how Kathy was dressed, apologized, and started to leave. "Dad, wait. Come on in. I've got a lot more on than last time you saw me." She giggled. "Yeah, I guess that's right. That was the sight of a lifetime. Kathy, I've never seen you look so lovely." "Well, you've never seen so much of me, either, but thank you." She giggled again, and feeling frisky, she continued the tease. "Why don't I just take these off for you so I can get some more compliments?" "Uh, no, you'd better not. I need to talk to both of you, and I would be tongue-tied with you naked again. Honey, you must have been working out." "Yes, but only for about six weeks. I'm going to keep it up, though. I already like the results. Dad, you've always looked trim and fit, but Mother never mentioned you working out or playing any sports." "Well, I have parts of my life that Evelyn has nothing to do with and sometimes doesn't even know about. Over the years, I have protected myself and told her just to butt out. To my shame, though, I never stood up to her to protect you. I can't tell you how sorry I am for that. I was always afraid of divorce because she would end up with you, and that would be even worse." "I faced exactly the same dilemma, Ron," Ted interjected. "Kathy was already a long way down Evelyn's path." "Obviously, you found a solution. What did you do?" After looking to Kathy for approval, Ted told his father-in-law a condensed version of the last two months." "Wow! If I'd had that kind of guts, you wouldn't have had to go through this. Seeing your example, I am re-thinking a lot of the choices I have made to keep our marriage intact. We may be living in the same house, but there is nothing else that qualifies us as married." "Well, I have to get going. She will not undress for anything. You know, I haven't seen her naked for years, not that I've missed much." "Dad, do you mean you've had no sex for all that time." "Remember I said there were parts of my life she didn't know about? Well, enough said on that subject. Can we take a rain check on Evelyn's nudity?" "What do you mean?" "If she undresses some other time, can that qualify as her promise?" "As long as she is naked for the whole visit. She has to be here at least two hours, and we all have to be home." "Fair enough. Not that I have any hope of her doing it. Uh, one other question. If someday I show up with a different wife, will I still be welcome?" "Dad, if she treats you with love, respect, and care, she will be more than welcome." ***** Greg leaned back in his swivel chair and linked his fingers behind his head. It was eerily quiet with no one else in the house. It seemed only yesterday that Shannon had jokingly answered the phone "Greg's Motel." Then the next time, she answered "Greg's nudist resort. Sorry, we have no vacancies." He had gotten angry at that one until she assured him she knew it was Julia's cell phone from the caller ID. His secluded estate had been the site of so much activity over the unbelievable summer. Some nights in August, there had been thirteen people sleeping there. If he was honest with himself, he loved it. He loved the people themselves. His house had been the site of so much beauty. The naked Randolph women. Voluptuous Julia. The three incredible naked nymphs who had graced his pool so often. He would miss them all. The joy he felt from the restoration of his beloved Randolph family far outweighed any sense of loss. He could never have anticipated any of what happened. Shannon was living a modern fairy tale. Ted and Kathy were reaping the rewards of sheer `conquers all' love and courage. Shannon and Kathy had become inseparable, ecstatic that they would be neighbors. They religiously met for morning runs, and came out to his place three times a week to use his gym. Despite his protests that it was not necessary, they dropped their clothes at the door and worked out nude. They told him it was small enough reward for what he had done for them. He was not looking forward to the day when Alex finished adding his own gym to their new place. And what about himself? He had shared a bed with Julia - a woman with a fantasy body and sex drive and a mind that left him in awe. He had shared intimate moments with Caroline, the most significant woman of his life. For all the wonderful things that had happened, there were still holes in his contentment. His failed marriage would always be there, tempering the thrill of every success. And Yvonne. Intelligent, resourceful, beautiful, wounded Yvonne. She filled his bed many nights and his thoughts even more. Would she fall in love with him? Did he want her to? Was he the key to making her whole again. Was she the key to his own healing? Too many questions! Just `Enjoy the ride.' At least life was quite simple right now. The doorbell rang. He was not expecting any one as he almost absentmindedly opened the door. There stood Jenna. Naked. Holding a piece of paper toward him and blushing furiously. "Greg, I've, uh, got this contract." THE END - <end of zipped file 'PP13.TXT'> - <zipped file 'PP1.TXT'> Pygmalion Project (1/13) Prologue (F, slow) Prologue: Early May -------------------- Sunday This 'homecoming' weekend was not turning out to be the nostalgic interlude Greg had hoped for. Going to the reunion had been a mistake. He had missed his five-year high school class reunion to finish preparing for his Masters Degree orals. When the ten-year came around, he was out of the country negotiating the sale of the software business he had built. For the last three years, he had been completely in control of his own time, so when the invitation for the fifteen-year celebration arrived, he thought "Why not?" While he was in town, he would also visit with the Randolphs. The `Why not?' was because it was like walking into a crowd of strangers. The elapsed time had just been too long, and he no longer had anything in common with those who had been his closest friends. Greg was certainly not shy among strangers. In fact, he was quite the opposite. He could be comfortable in most social situations, and was generally a dominant presence when he wanted to be. The problem here was finding some way to connect with his old classmates and teammates. He was absolutely amazed at the paths many of them had taken. Dissolution seemed to be the order of the day. Of course, given his own strict physical regimen, he was undoubtedly extra critical, but still... These people were only 32 or 33 years old, and middle aged spread was the norm. Only one or two of the cheerleaders looked like they could even squeeze into their old outfits, and the football team was no better. Greg was, as usual, carefully understated about what had happened to him. When questioned, he admitted he had started a successful software business and then sold it. When pushed about his financial status, he carefully avoided any specifics. The fact that he wore no obviously expensive clothes or jewelry, and that he had arrived in his two-year-old Grand Cherokee took the edge off much of the questioning. Most classmates had heard nothing of his success and were much more interested in talking about themselves. Any feelings of superiority Greg may have had were quashed when the conversations turned to family. There was at least the usual percentage of divorces among the group, but there was also some sincere bragging about offspring - there really were some traditional nuclear families represented. All of which served to accentuate the loneliness that had been growing in him since his divorce. If he was honest with himself, he would admit that loneliness was one reason for not throwing away the reunion invitation out of hand. Well, it was early Sunday afternoon. The reunion was mercifully over, and he had just pulled up in front of the Randolphs' house. This wasn't going to be easy, either. He had not seen them for five years. How could he have let that happen? They had been substitute parents for him - much better than his own. How could he apologize? The large bouquet on the passenger seat seemed pathetically trivial. As he walked toward the front door, he tried but could not avoid a glance three doors down - his old home. An almost palpable chill rippled up his back as he saw the familiar, yet strange, house. He steeled his mind against the flood of painful memories that threatened to overtake him. Before he could reach for the bell, the door was opened by Jim Randolph, beaming, hand extended. "Greg! We're so glad you're here." As Greg shook his hand, Jim stepped aside and Caroline stepped forward to give Greg a hug and a kiss on the cheek. As he pulled his head back, he saw that her eyes were moist. "We have really missed you!" she said softly. "I am so ashamed! How can I ever apologize for staying away so long?" "That doesn't matter now. You're back! Oh, what a gorgeous bouquet! Let me get them in a vase right away. Come on in." As she walked off toward the kitchen, Greg stood transfixed. Jim saw has reaction and chuckled softly. "Sorry!" Greg said, sheepishly. "It's OK. I do that myself all the time, even after knowing her 40 years. Hey, you look a little sad." "It's because there is only one Caroline, and I'm afraid I'll never find anyone even close." Ever since childhood, she had represented Greg's female ideal: elegance, class, warmth, caring, loyalty, and as he matured enough to sense it, strong but contained sexuality. Now in her mid-fifties, she had never had either the centerfold or runway model looks. Still, he thought her as achingly beautiful as any woman he had ever known. Had his ill-fated marriage suffered because Jenna could never be Caroline? "I know I am the luckiest son-of-a-bitch alive, but, hey, let's not start this visit on a morose note," Jim quipped. "We've got a lot of catching up to do. What can I get you to drink? Are you still tee-totaling?" With that, the conversation proceeded through drinks and dinner as if the separation had been five days instead of five years. Some of the topics were painful. Caroline finally asked, "What went wrong between you and Jenna, anyway? I thought you two were so well matched." "We were great for a few years. We had nothing but each other, but it seemed to be enough. Then the company really started to take off, and I was working terribly hard. I really tried to make time for us and I thought she understood. The sad thing is she didn't get angry with me or pressure me to back off. She just found someone else, or someone else found her. I was so destroyed it almost ruined the business. If only she could have waited one more year! When I cashed in, it almost seemed like a hollow victory - it could never make up for the failure of my marriage. I guess that's why I have chosen to live so no one would guess how much money I really have. I feel almost like I haven't earned it." Caroline, as usual, took a comforting tack. "I know it's sad, but divorces are awfully common among successful entrepreneurs. You achieved something really significant. I'm sure you tried your best to burn the candle at both ends." "You bet I tried! I nearly killed myself. No sleep, no exercise, rotten eating, living on caffeine. Ever since I was old enough to think about marriage and family, I was determined not to repeat the dysfunctional mess of my so-called family. It was going to be what you guys have! But...I failed. I guess part of why I've been away so long is that I wanted to emulate you guys. I failed and I was ashamed." "Where is Jenna now?" "Oh, she's still in the suburbs, not far from my place." "Is she married?" "No. After our divorce, the guy just disappeared. Guess he was more interested in hunting than keeping. We still see each other occasionally, though I find it pretty painful." "What is she doing?" "She is just putting in time at fairly menial administrative jobs. You know she quit college when we married, and I could not get her to finish. She just seems to be wandering. Acquaintances have seen her frequenting pickup bars. I had wanted to give her a decent settlement - the company was already doing fairly well by then. My lawyer insisted that I go for the infidelity angle. I was hurt and angry enough to agree. After the sale, I had wanted to give her something, but he threatened to quit as my lawyer if I did. I've talked to her parents, and they are really distressed about her situation." "Are you still in love with her?" "Oof! Caroline, you never did dance around the tough stuff, did you? I would never tell anyone but you two, but yes, I still am. The pain and anger are still huge, but underneath, somewhere, there is still love. It really doesn't matter, though. I just need to grow out of it." There was a protracted silence as they sipped after-dinner coffee. "Now, tell me the news of your family." "Laura is now a full professor at Arizona State. Her husband, Rick, is working his way up the pilot ranks. He is still with the commuter branch, but is hoping to be called up by the big carrier yet this year. They waited longer to have kids, so their two are just four and six. We wish they weren't so far away, but at least with his airline perks, they can visit quite often. We have been spending a week at a mountain cabin with them every summer." "As you probably remember, Ted & Kathy and their kids live rather close to you. It is nice having them just an hour and a half away. Their marriage seems to be good, and we enjoy some great times with them. Ted has a good chance to be the youngest partner ever in his accounting firm. The oldest of their three children is in Junior High. She is something of a musical prodigy, and we often drive up to see her perform." "I wish I had known. I would have loved to join you and see Ted again. I don't think I have seen Kathy since my wedding." "We thought many times of calling you and stopping by. We knew you had been through a lot of upheaval. We feared you might have been upset with us for some reason." "Oh, Caroline, that could never happen! I have no excuse for not making contact myself. I hope you can forgive me." "No apology necessary." There was another lag in the conversation. Greg mused on how they responded in conversation almost as one person - sometimes one speaking, sometimes the other, not really mattering which. After a bit, he spoke up again. "Um, you didn't mention Shannon." "We weren't sure you wanted to talk about her," came from Jim. "Aren't you angry with her?" "I think the anger has passed. After the divorce and the sale, I spent some time just moping. A good friend who is a psychiatrist finally talked me into some sessions, and it helped me a lot. She showed me that I needed to start focusing more on people. Since then, I have done a lot of volunteer work with various kinds of charities, some of whom run shelters, halfway houses, and such. I have worked closely with a number of people who suffer from addictions. Much as I was hurt by how Shannon treated me, I can better understand what she must have gone through. It has made me angrier at the drug business and less at her." "She wasn't even on drugs when she first rejected you." "I know. I blame myself for rejecting her back. I responded in kind instead of trying to love her through it. I've always thought I should have done something to keep her from getting hooked on cocaine by her 'in crowd' friends." "You were awfully young then. I remember how devastated you were." "You should remember. I must have ruined a lot of your blouses crying on your shoulder. I was just 14. I guess puberty is the time when acceptance and rejection can seem like the only important things in life. She was getting 'in' with the cheerleading crowd. To them, I was a nerd. She had to choose and I lost." "That was so strange. You were already getting noticed as a runner, and you were out for football. You'd think that would be enough to join the 'in' crowd." "Somehow in the culture of that school, my commitment to good grades and my interest in computers put me outside the pale. To tell the truth, though, I didn't want to be 'in.' I didn't want to lose my best friend, either, though." "We were so devastated by the way she treated you. We worked hard to instill good, solid values in our kids. Somehow, with Shannon, it didn't take. Since then we have done some study on birth order. We now realize there are some things about a third child that need to be handled differently." "Wouldn't we all like a chance to replay some things. I haven't seen Shannon for over ten years. She didn't come to my wedding. What is she doing now?" He could see Jim trying to formulate a reply. When he spoke, it was very subdued. "Shannon and the kids are living here. The walkout level has a full apartment, and we don't need the space. They have been here for several years, now. She has never been able to afford a decent place of her own. The jobs she has had are not very good, and she cannot seem to hold them for long. Right now, she is selling tickets at a theater." "Is she clean, then?" "Well, she is off drugs, as far as we can tell. She drinks and smokes some, although I wouldn't call her an alcoholic. As you know, she dropped out of high school when she got hooked. She lived with that guy Adam for a few years, and had both kids by him. When he took off, we were able to convince her to go into rehab, and we took the kids. When she got out, she found a job and an apartment and things were looking up. Caroline provided day care for three or four years, but we thought it was worth it. When she started using again, we didn't know what to do. This time, she got crossed up with the law. She had just enough sense left to know she didn't want to lose the kids and everything. Rehab worked again, and we are just holding our breath ever since." "Do you think she would want to see me?" "I don't know. Why do you want to see her?" "It's hard to explain. I guess it's a desire to reconnect. It's partly why I came to the reunion. That didn't work, but Shannon was a much bigger part of my past than the whole high school. I guess I would like to see if there is any spark left of the childhood buddy I remember. I don't suppose there is anything I could do that would help her. I believe I am helping people through my volunteer work, but they are strangers. You are people I care about deeply, and I can see how Shannon's problems weigh on you. If there was even a chance I could help, I would not want to miss it." "We really appreciate you concern, Greg. I don't see what you could do that hasn't already been tried. We need to tell you that you might not recognize her." "I remember the punk hairdo, the weird makeup, and all the piercings." "It's not that. She has been borderline depressive since her last bout of addiction. She seems to have lost all drive and initiative. She can't seem to plan or make a decision. Her major addiction now is food. She has gained a lot of weight. Well, why don't you just call her and see if she is willing. To change the subject, I wanted to ask, are you romantically involved now?" "How did you put that question off so long, Caroline." They all chuckled at that. "No, I am not. Women who get close to me don't have very bright prospects. I haven't wanted to inflict my curse on anyone else." "You're not being fair to yourself. Shannon was not a woman when she went bad. She was just an immature girl, much as she would never admit it. You certainly did not cause her downfall. As for Jenna - sometimes people are just fools. Bright as she is, she must kick herself daily for leaving you." "Whatever the reason, I am 0 for 2 and gun-shy." ******* After the usual busy Saturday night at the theater, Shannon slept until almost noon. The kids were quiet - Terry playing his computer games, and Janie watching an old movie on TV. Another of her many waves of guilt hit her as she thought how decent they were to her and how shitty she often was to them. At 14 and 13, they were the only good things she had ever accomplished, and she didn't deserve them. Like everything else, if it weren't for her parents, they probably wouldn't be great kids, either. As she lurched toward the bathroom, she saw Terry hunched over the keyboard in his room. He had on a sleeveless T-Shirt, and she could see the muscles developing on his shoulders and chest. He was going to look like her father. Carefully avoiding looking in the mirror, she turned on the shower and stripped off the panties and T-Shirt she slept in. She saw the bottle of sleeping pills she had left out last night. It reminded her of her almost nightly internal debate - should she just take them all and really sleep through it? Shuddering, she put them in the cabinet and stepped into the shower. As the water began to wash away the sleep fog, the image of Terry in his muscle shirt returned. He was becoming a man. Would she ever have a man again? Who would ever want her? How had she turned into such a blimp? Last time she stepped reluctantly on a scale, it yelled back 201! As a JV cheerleader, she weighed just 115 at 5'6"! Now, she could grab an ugly roll of fat in her hand anywhere on her torso, or her back, if she could ever reach it. She had started to do that knock-kneed fat lady's waddle when she walked. She had to do contortions to see the clit ring that still adorned her permanently bare pubis. Why was she always hungry? Why did food never satisfy the hunger? She knew she had lost that last waitress job because of her weight. A fat waitress had to at least be jolly, and she was a long way from jolly. Thinking of Terry again, she wondered just how much of a man he was becoming. When she was growing up, modesty was the rule around the house. Because of how she looked now, she never exposed herself to her children, and they reciprocated. Thus, she had had no opportunity to see how her son's package was developing. This line of thought triggered a tingling in her groin, and as she washed her crotch, she dropped the rag and decided to bring herself off. Right now, she was glad for the clit ring. Otherwise, she might have trouble finding her nub in all that fat. Getting off had always been surprisingly easy for her. As she started off slowly on her clit, she worked a nipple with her other hand. She kept this up for several minutes until she felt the momentum starting to build. Speeding up on her clit, she dropped her other hand to her vagina, inserted two fingers carefully, and starting stroking in and out in time with her other hand. It took less than a minute of this for her to peak. She had to take her hand from her hole to steady herself against the shower wall, but she kept rubbing her clit to keep the orgasm rolling. Finally, she slowed to gentle rubbing of her whole mound as the last of the shudders rippled through her. It was not a big one, but she did feel better. As she finished her shower, the depressive side of her brain wondered if she would ever again get off from anyone's hand but her own. After dressing in sweats and a T-Shirt, she had a quick breakfast of a kids' cereal she found on the shelf. She made a pot of coffee, and finished off with a couple of donuts she had picked up at the shop next to the theater. As she was putting her dishes in the sink, Janie came into the little kitchenette area. "Mornin', Mom. Hey, who's visiting Gram and Pops? There's a strange car in the driveway, and I thought I heard a man's voice at the door just now." "I don't know who it is, honey. Did you guys get some breakfast?" "Yeah, Mom, we're all set for a while. What are we going to do for lunch?" "Don't know. I'll work on it." As Janie left the room, it suddenly hit her. Greg must be here! Last night was that stupid reunion, and he was coming for it. Mom had told her. They had encouraged her to go, but there was no way. High school represented the worst time of her life and she wanted no reminders. Besides, she had never graduated, so it wasn't really her reunion. Greg! She had basically blotted him from her brain for these many years - he was all tangled in with the other high school pain. Why was he here? He hadn't been around for years. He must hate her guts! Suddenly and uncharacteristically overcome by curiosity, she crept up the inside stairway that opened into the house's main entryway. She just had to hear if it really was Greg, and what they might be talking about. As she reached the top step and sat down, she heard her mother ask "Where is Jenna now?" She hardly breathed as she sat listening to the conversation. As the subject turned to her, she bristled as usual at the idea they might be trying to 'fix' her - to run her life. But as she listened, she was actually touched by evidence of true concern for her, even from Greg! When he mentioned his 'childhood buddy,' her eyes welled up with tears. Almost stumbling from haste and blurred vision, she tore back downstairs to her room. Frantically, she riffled through her closet for something that fit and looked halfway decent. Nothing was right, but she hastily donned a slacks and blouse she frequently wore to work. In the bathroom, she applied a little makeup and combed out her hair the best she could. Slipping on some sandals, she hurried to the lower level door thru the family room that served as her little family's main room. "Where you goin', Mom?" Janie queried. "Nowhere, honey. I'll be right back." She walked around the house on the flagstone walk that brought her to the driveway. At the corner of the garage, she waited. After less than ten minutes, Greg came out. She almost gasped. He looked great! What was she thinking? She couldn't let him see her! ***** He said his goodbyes and started toward his car. He thought he sensed some motion at the corner of the garage, but when he looked over, no one was there. After another step, though, he heard a noise as if someone was walking away. With a flash of insight, he called out "Shannon," and sprinted over to the corner. As he looked around the side of the garage, he saw her retreating down the walk. "Shannon, wait!" he called out. She stopped facing away from him, almost in mid-step. He caught up and moved around in front of her. She looked at him with a 'deer in the headlights' expression on her face. "Shannon, I'm glad you're here. I wanted to see you." "H..Hello, Greg. Why did you want to see me?" She couldn't let on what she'd heard on the stairway - she still was not sure she believed it. "Can we go somewhere for a cup of coffee or something?" "I..I've got to fix lunch for the kids." She still had hardly moved a muscle. Greg thought for a moment, and then had an inspiration. "Tell you what, let's go to the food court over at the mall. I'll buy you all lunch, and the kids can shop or go to the arcade while we visit." "Are you sure you want to do that?" "Yes, I really do!" He had planned to be on his way back home, but he really had nothing scheduled the rest of the day. Hesitantly, Shannon agreed and went to get the kids. The introductions were a little awkward, but the planned outing soon met with enthusiastic approval. They all piled into the Jeep for the short trip to the mall. As they pulled out of the driveway, Greg briefly saw Jim and Caroline at the corner of the front window, Caroline with head lowered, her face in her hands. At the mall, it was decided the kids would play first for a half hour. As they were about to move off, Greg saw Terry start to ask his mother something, then drop his shoulders and back away. Two inspirations in one day - Greg was hot! "Here, Terry, use this to get yourself some tokens at the arcade," as he handed the boy a ten. Greg purposely kept his back to Shannon as he watched the kids move off, not giving her a chance to protest. The next half hour was uncomfortable. Shannon was almost tongue-tied. Both had to pretend they didn't know the things they had heard about the other. There were a number of long silences, but not the kind between old friends who don't have to always be talking. It was a relief when the kids returned, and Greg spent most of his time getting acquainted with them. When all were finished eating, he dropped them home. Goodbyes were cordial but brief - much better from the kids. As he caught the freeway and headed on home, he felt a heavy sadness, but yet a sense of determination. He would find some way to get Shannon a better life. ***** When Greg dropped them off at the house, both kids went up to the front door to tell Gram & Pops about their outing. Shannon went straight to her room and stretched out on the bed. She felt incredibly weary and thought she would just nap until time to get ready for work. But sleep would not come. For years she had been dealing with the specter of her past by repression - she just would not let herself think about it. The present was not good. The mind numbing jobs, the occasional binge, the cigarettes, and, of course, the constant food barely kept the depression at bay. Depressing as things were now, though, if she let herself think about her childhood, high school, using, Adam, or recovery, she would not be able to cope. Being with Greg had shattered her defensive barrier, and now the memories were pouring in full force. Greg had been one aspect of her past she avoided most scrupulously. His name and image were surrounded by a choking cloud of guilt. She knew she had been wrong to turn away from him as she did. Even at the time, she had felt bad about it, but her old friend just could not compete with her flashy new friends, and they wouldn't let her have both. Thoughts of Greg, especially after having just been with him, evoked another strong feeling as well - longing! He represented what could have been, if only... Seeing how good he looked and hearing how well he had done highlighted the meagerness of her own existence. Maybe she could have been married to him! Instead, here she was, unmarried; two bastard kids; a body that would turn off even a drunken sailor, and no prospects for any real improvement. How could she have made such a mess of her life? As she laid there, her mind kept going over and over all the events she could remember from her last eighteen years. All the energy drained from her. She felt she could hardly move. Hour after hour she lay almost catatonic. Time to leave for work came and went and she could not even muster the energy to call in sick. She was overcome by bouts of sobbing. Sometime far into the night she collapsed into exhausted sleep. The morning brought no improvement, and she was barely able to stumble through the necessities of existence. The kids were solicitous, and her mother came down to see what was wrong and try to get her to eat something. They could tell from her appearance that she was truly ill, but she could not say what was wrong. For the rest of the week, she hardly left her bed. She knew she wanted to change. She wanted a decent life for herself and her kids. She wanted at least a little bit of what her parents, her brother and sister, and Greg had. She wanted to feel like a success at something. She wanted someone to love! As desperately as she wanted these things, she just could not see how she was going to realize any of them. The more she wished, the more the hopelessness paralyzed her. ***** As soon as he was in cell range after leaving the Randophs', he dialed Julia Waxman, his friend and psychiatrist. Frank answered, but Julia was home, and he called her to the phone. "Greg! Haven't heard from you in quite a while." "Sorry to call you at home, Julia, but I want to buy some of your time. Her voice took on a more serious tone. "Are you having some problems?" "Oh, no! Nothing like that. Your fixes are still holding just fine." They both chuckled at this standing joke between them. "I want to tell you about an old friend whose life has not gone well. Maybe you can suggest some ways I could help her?" "You're not talking about Jenna, are you?" "No, it's Shannon. From my childhood." "Yes, I remember, now. I'm full the next two days, but how about lunch tomorrow at 11:30." "That's great! I'll be at your office right at 11:30. Thanks, Julia." Monday At lunch the next day, Greg told Julia as much as he knew about Shannon's history and current situation. She asked a number of detailed questions. At one point, he had run out of answers. He excused himself, called the Randolph house on his cell phone, and questioned Caroline for several minutes. He avoided telling her why he wanted the information, and she did not push. Julia had had a cancellation of her first client after lunch (at least that is what she told him), so they adjourned back to her office. "From what you have told me, she is a tragic but classic ex-addict. She was not using for all that many years, and the drugs she used were not the most destructive. Many in her situation become totally non-functional. The asylums are full of them. The still functional, but damaged ones, like Shannon, have pretty bleak prospects. A disturbing number of the women fall into bondage, or become sex slaves." "Guess I can't help her that way!" commented Greg. "The very idea of bondage makes me ill. I could never be a slave master." "No, I'm sure you couldn't. Disgusting as it sounds, though, slavery seems to supply some important needs and wants. Someone tells them exactly what to do - does all the thinking and deciding for them. The humiliation and pain supplies the punishment they instinctively feel they deserve. Many live out their whole lives in servitude situations. Sometimes it's in a marriage, but the situation is really the same." "What I had hoped to do was find some way get Shannon a new start - to get her back on track for the life she should have had with her talent, her looks, and her upbringing." Neither spoke for a few minutes until Greg asked "Could there be a kind of beneficent slavery, maybe constructive slavery? I mean where someone did all the thinking and controlled her life, but the objective was not control but rebuilding?" "Interesting! I have read some papers that discussed this idea as a variation of the 're-birthing' concept. The subject is brought to a state not unlike infancy where literally nothing is left in their control. Then, they are taught and trained under rigorous discipline. I do not recall reading any articles with great success stories, though." "What if a part of the program was physical change - weight loss, escape from addictions, improved health and strength? Re-birthing the body, as it were. What if the program had a time target, and a definite, measurable set of objectives for improvement?" "Hey, do you want to switch jobs for a while?" Chuckles from both. "That's the kind of radical thinking that shows up too seldom in my rather stuffy profession. Why don't you draw up a specific plan for Shannon. E-mail it to me and we'll go from there." ***** Back at home, Greg spent several hours writing, pondering, erasing, and rewriting a plan along the lines he had suggested. It took the form of a signed agreement that he would take complete control of Shannon's life for eight months. He and he only would decide what she ate, what she wore, where she went, what she watched, how she exercised, when she got up, when she retired, what she studied - everything he could think of. He e-mailed it to Julia and was surprised how quickly she called back. "It looks very thorough, Greg, but I have one key question: why would she sign this? I think you should include in the agreement the weight and conditioning she would achieve at the end, as well as any other achievements you think might induce her to sign." Greg added to the 'contract' that after eight months Shannon would weigh 130 pounds or less, would be able to bench press at least 80 pounds, would be able to run a 10K in 55 minutes or less, would have obtained her GED, and would be free of all drugs, alcohol, and tobacco for eight months. Julia liked the additions, but had another serious concern. "What is there to keep her in the program. What do you have to make her 'obey?'" "I believe having to go back to her current life is a significant threat. But you are right, I need to provide more incentive to stay in." After some calculation and some serious thought, he added a financial incentive. Shannon would 'earn' $50 each day she stayed in the program. If she finished the eight months, she kept it all. If she bailed out, or he kicked her out, he would deduct what he paid for outside help. He had already decided to use Julia, a nutritionist, a personal trainer, one or more tutors, and, if he could find one, a beauty consultant. It would be a tidy payout at the end, if she stayed in. Considering the caliber of people he planned to hire, the 'account' could easily be negative at any partway point. When Julia called again, she commented on his generosity. "I know the money is not a concern to you, and it should help. I thought of something more troublesome, though. Sex. Do you have a romantic or sexual interest in her? Would you be grooming her as a future partner? Perhaps you should address the issue on the contract." On the next pass, he added the stipulation that they would not have sex and that she would have her own room. As he worked on the program, he kept thinking of Jim and Caroline and all their sacrifice and heartache. He added signature lines for both of them. He also added a 'safe' clause. Her parents would contact her daily. They would agree on a safe word she could use to signal them that something was wrong, and they should get her out. After Julia had seen it, she called. "This is really impressive, Greg. Getting her parents involvement is brilliant. It fits perfectly with the re-birthing idea. This kind of change cannot happen without a support system, and family is the best one. I can hardly believe you would be willing to do this for eight months. Are you in love with her?" "No. I still have trouble stating my own motives. Partly it's my love for Jim and Caroline. Partly it's to try to close one of the last wounds from my childhood. Partly it's to see if I can accomplish something unique and significant with people as well as I did with computers." "Well, this is such an impressive program, I would like to be closely involved with a possible eye to a published paper. Would that be all right?" "That would be perfect! You can make sure I don't end up doing more harm than good." "Before you go any farther, let me work this over for a few days. Do a little research. Maybe talk to a couple of colleagues. Is that OK?" Greg readily agreed. On Friday, Julia finally called again. "Greg, after quite a bit of study, I have one major concern about your plan. Thinking in terms of the re-birthing concept, I don't think it removes her far enough from her comfort zone to get the fresh start impact we are looking for. I have a suggestion you may find absurd, but please hear me out......" When Julia finished talking, he was speechless. Absurd hardly described it. He could never do that. How could he even propose it to Shannon, much less her parents? What was Julia thinking? If Julia thought that's what it would take to succeed, he would just pack it in right now. For the rest of the day, he back-burnered his Shannon project and lost himself in all the things he had neglected the past week. By Saturday, he had relegated it to his mental shelf of brainstorms that fizzled, until the phone rang in the early evening. "Greg?" It was Jim's voice. "What did you and Shannon talk about last Sunday?" Greg described their visit and how little real substance there was to it. "I didn't think you would do or say anything destructive, but she is a total wreck. She hasn't been to work all week, so there goes another nothing job down the drain. According to the kids, her eyes are red all the time and they can hear her crying late at night. She is unable to cook or clean up, so we have had to take care of the kids. I just wondered if you had any clue what is going on. We're afraid she may be suicidal." When he heard this, his plan, even with Julia's outrageous modification, suddenly seemed the only glimmer of hope. "Jim, tell Shannon I will be there at noon tomorrow. I have something to propose to her. I assume the kids will be in school. If not, will you make sure they are not around? I need you to stay upstairs, too. Is that OK? When I,m done, I'll stop up and say hello." "We can do that. Can you give me a hint what this is about?" "Not yet, Jim. See you tomorrow." Prologue: Mid May ----------------------- Sunday "Shannon, ever since I saw you last, you have been constantly on my mind." "You must really be hard up to get the hots for a burned-out slob like me!" she snorted. He ignored the gibe and continued: "Shannon, what do you want to do?" "You mean today?" "No, Shannon, I mean with your life." He was pleasantly surprised when she didn't shoot right back with a glib remark or an angry curse. Instead, she slumped further down in her chair as if the air had been let out of her. It was several minutes before she said anything. "I really don't know, Greg! I want to change so badly, but I don't know how. Nothing I've tried has done any good. Maybe the smartest thing would be to kill myself and spare everyone a lot of grief." "I think if you really believed that, you would have done it already. Besides, deep down you are stronger than that. I have a proposal for you. It is extreme, and it is probably a long shot, but I am willing to try it if you are. When I say extreme, I mean it will probably make you angry when you hear it." "First of all, I won't do anything unless we have a written agreement covering all the details of the plan signed by you, me, and your parents." "WHAT!! What do my parents have to be involved for? They'll only make things worse. They've been trying to run my life since I was 13, and look what's it's got! No way! You can forget the whole idea, whatever it is, right now! I'm 32, for God's sake, I don't need my parents to run my life." "They did not try to run your life. They were just trying to fulfill their parental responsibility. I don't know why you could never accept any of it. They were more my parents than my own were, and I know how wise and caring they are. I cannot fix what has gone on between you and them over all these years, but I do not believe I can help you unless you let them in. Geez, Shannon, they are housing you and practically raising your kids! Doesn't that earn them a chance to be in your life? Tell me this - do you love them?" "That's not a fair question! I just don't know! I am very grateful for all the help with the kids, and with money. But they are always trying to get me to clean up my act - to get into treatment, get a better job, finish school, or whatever. Why can't they just let me be my own person?" "And a fine job you've done of that, haven't you?" He immediately regretted saying it, but it was how he felt, and she would be hearing much worse before this was over. She did not react violently, though. Nothing like her original response to her parents' involvement. She sniffled softly, and he could see some tears forming. "Tell me about this great plan of yours." Greg handed her a copy he had printed up, and waited while she read it. "Wow! That's quite a bit of money!" "It adds up to almost $12,500 if you stay the whole time. Also, you will not have to - actually, you will not be able to - spend any of your money. I will provide everything." "Why would you do that? How can you afford it? What do you get out of it?" "Believe me, the money is not a problem. I have been very fortunate financially. As for what I get out of it: I would have a chance to do something significant for a person that was once important to me. Also, I will get some personal jollies from it." "Oh? Why is that?" "Remember, I said I would be in control of what you wear? Well, for the eight months you would be at my house, you would be naked!" She bolted staight out of her chair. "Shit!! You're nothing but a pervert! What is this? 'Revenge of the Nerds III? This is your way to get a cheap sex toy! No thanks! You get out of here right now! I didn't figure you for such a lowlife, Greg." "Let me finish!" "Why should I? This is digusting!! Do you think I've sunk so low you can make me your whore?" "Yes, I think so! But that is not what this is about. Will you listen some more?" She stood stock still for a long moment, then sagged back into the chair. "I'll listen, but this had better be good!" "Read the agreement again. It says we would not have sex, and you would have your own room. Although not written in the agreement, I would be clothed at all times when you were present. I would not in any way abuse you physically. No bondage. No corporal punishment. This is not about sex or dominance. It's about bringing out the real Shannon that's been buried in there for so long. A Shannon I happen to believe is worth trying to uncover." "But why do I have to be naked? Why is that so important? I look so terrible! I don't want you to see me like this!" "But by the end, I would get to be around a naked beauty. That is part of my reward! " "Pervert!" "Seriously, there are two reasons for you being naked, Shannon. An important one is for you to be constantly aware of how you look. This would be a big incentive for your diet and exercise. I want you to be proud of how you look, and confident in your appearance, even without clothes. There would be extra mirrors installed all over the house. You would see your reflection literally everywhere you went. At first, you would be upset, maybe disgusted. That would make you work harder at your exercises. Toward the end, you would be fascinated with how good you look." "But a bigger reason is to get down to the real Shannon. Ever since you got hooked, then went punk, your weird clothes, your wild hair, your cadaverous makeup, and your piercings have been your defense against anyone seeing the real you. Without those things, you have to be real. My psychiatrist friend refers to this plan as a sort of a 're-birthing' process." "But Greg, it will be so embarrassing! Can't you please just change that part of it?" "No, I won't. And that's not all. I wouldn't be the only one to see you naked. Other people would visit the house, and you would remain naked around them, as well." "Oh, no!! That's way too much. I could never do that. I couldn't stand the shame. I thought you wanted to help me, not shame me." "I'm afraid that some shame is a necessary part of the plan. I would not be shaming you. I would just be letting you see the shame you have already brought on yourself. Besides, how many men have already seen your naked tits or pussy? "That was before I got fat. And besides, I was just a kid for a lot of that. There weren't that many men, either. I was not a slut, no matter what you think. It's even more embarrassing because I'm bare down there." "You can just let it grow out. It shouldn't take long." "No I can't. It's permanently bare. Adam liked it that way. And I have a clit ring." "Then you will have a constant reminder of the life you would be finally leaving behind. Shannon, anyone else who came to the house would know just why you were naked, and would be impressed with your determination. Before long, they would be impressed with your body, too! They would all be sympathetic people, and absolutely discrete." "So you want me for a skin show for your buddies? Please!" "That's not it at all. I want you to make a completely fresh start, as if from nothing. I want you to become so strong and so confident that nothing can faze you. The thought of needing a drink or a line to pump up your confidence and get you through would never occur to you again. I want you to become permanently high on Shannon. I still remember the buddy, the almost-sister, I grew up next door to. You were like the wind, the sunshine, and the lightning all rolled into one. I was so in love with you I could hardly stand it. Then, in Junior High, you totally changed, and I lost you - you rejected me. For almost twenty years, that rejection has been an empty spot in my heart. Now, there is at least a chance I could get some of it back. I'm not saying I'm in love with you. It just hurts to see what has happened to your life. And don't forget your parents. I owe them so much for all they gave me in those tough years. I know how deeply they love you, and even if I got no benefit, I would still do this if it could give them back a little something." "God, you should be on Dr. Phil!!" The tough street-girl veneer was back. "I think I've said all I can, Shannon. Right now you are either heading back to using, or to a bottle of sleeping pills. I can offer you eight months where you don't have to worry about anything but doing what I tell you. You will be a whole new Shannon at the end. Some of the things I do will be hard on you, but I will not be mean or unkind." Greg was so physically exhausted he could hardly drive home. He still couldn't believe he had done something so audacious, but deep down, he felt he had given it his best shot. He was not at all sure he could follow through with the plan, but he figured the chances of Shannon and her parents all agreeing were nil, anyway. ***** Shannon was fuming. She could not sit or lie down, she was so agitated. She simply could not believe what Greg had proposed. Naked, for God's sake! Up until then, it had sounded pretty good. She honestly believed Greg would work hard to help her lose weight and get in shape. She just knew he would be honorable and considerate. The way she felt now, if he wanted to enslave her and punish her, she would probably agree. After all, she certainly deserved it! What he proposed sounded safe and comfortable. He might push her to do some hard things, but she would not have to decide or plan anything. She could quit worrying for a while about what was next. Behind these thoughts was the dream that if she really did get to looking good again, maybe he would fall in love with her. But, naked! That spoiled everything! She was no more useful for real-world activities than last week, but her entire demeanor changed. The laying in bed and crying at night stopped, replaced by chain smoking, snappishness with anyone who got in her way, and late nights staring vacantly at the TV. Greg had offered her a chance at the things she so desperately wanted, but at a price she could not possibly pay. She felt like the prize had been held out to her, then pulled away at the last second. Monday night she caught one of those makeover segments on the late night news. This was followed by an infomercial for a body building machine - more before and after shots and testimonials. She had become immune to anything relating to self-improvement, but suddenly she was watching and putting herself in the before and after shots. She had to admit to herself how much she hated the way she was, and how much she longed for a body she could be proud of - a body that would attract men! Greg was offering that, but, Damn! Maybe she could talk him out of the naked part! No, he had been very emphatic about no negotiations. Why did she need him, anyway? She would show him! She would start dieting and running. She would make herself attractive again without being in his stupid peep show! She went to her closet and dug out a box of old pictures that had been buried for several years. She found photos of herself from Junior High and High School years. There were several of her with Adam and the babies, and some with her parents, the kids, and herself. She had not let herself see these for many years. In these old pictures, she was slim. Even the outlandish styles in the later ones could not disguise the beautiful young woman she had been. There were no photos from her recent 'fat' years. Suddenly hungry, she got an ice cream carton from the freezer, and was reaching for a bowl when it hit her what she was doing. She could never lose weight by herself! She needed this food! She could not make it without it! She was overcome by the realization of defeat, and slumped into a chair, tears streaming down her face. The anger was gone; the depression was returning big time. What if Greg was right? What if his plan was the only way she could change? She wanted to change so badly! The longing seemed to grow stronger each day. After a few hours of fitful sleep, she spent Tuesday alternating between agitation and depression, sometimes crying in her bed, sometimes terrorizing anyone who got in her way. Late Tuesday night, she carefully checked to make sure the kids were asleep, then took a shower. After she finished drying, she braced herself and walked naked the few feet to her room. Trembling from the adrenalin rush of combined fear and excitement, she stood in her room for several minutes. Finally, she walked, still naked, into their 'living room.' Knowing there was no one to see her, she still covered herself with her hands. After several more minutes, she was able to drop her hands, sit in her favorite chair, and turn on the TV. The illumination from the screen made her fearful of being seen, but she steeled herself and stayed put in the chair. She was totally unaware of what was showing on the tube, so absorbed was she in the battle between the instinct to turn it off and hide in her room, and her surprising determination to see if she could stand being naked, even in the safety of home. After perhaps an hour of tension, she started to relax, and was even able to get up and get a Diet Coke. She shuddered with every bang of the refrigerator or cupboard door, and even the pop of the can top being pulled off. She was sure Terry would hear the noise and come to investigate. Still, she refused to let herself bolt to her room. After finishing her drink, she decided to test herself still more. She tremulously opened the outside door and stepped out into the Mid-May night. Her nipples hardened instantly. At first she thought it was the cold, but the tingling in her crotch told her that was not the reason. The moon was nearly full, and the brightness was intimidating. She told herself she had proved enough, but something surprising inside propelled her away from the house and out into the middle of the back yard. She stayed there, totally exposed, for several minutes, not sure what had brought her there, or what kept her. Suddenly, someone closed a window at a neighboring house. Stifling a scream, she tore back to her room, almost slamming the outside door as she entered. She once again stood trembling, hardly able to breath. At last, she got under the covers, still naked, hurriedly brought herself to an intense climax, and sank into the first sound sleep in a week. Wednesday Back in the Randophs' living room for the third time in two weeks, he was more nervous than ever. Presenting his plan to Shannon had been bad enough, but telling her parents was going to be agonizing. Discussing his first meeting with Shannon the week before, he said. "When I saw her, it was almost like a physical pain. Even after the way she treated me, and even after all these years, seeing her like that really tore me up. I went home and could hardly think of anything else for several days. I wanted to find some way to help her, but it seems like she has tried everything. I have a good friend who is a psychiatrist and has worked with a lot of addicts. She told me about how the initiative is often destroyed; she described the low self-worth; she showed me studies on the complete lack of decision-making ability. It was as if she had had a session with Shannon. The hardest part was the studies on the poor long-term prospects. It really shook me up! "We have read the same studies", interjected Jim, "and had many sessions with a counselor to help us cope with her situation, and to help her any way we can. The fact that she has been drug-free for several years is positive, but it seems like she lost too much when she was using." Greg continued, "One phrase my friend used got me thinking. She said it would almost take a re-birth to get an ex-addict into a normal life. With her help, I devised a really radical plan. This crazy plan is why I wanted to meet with you today. If we do this, you and Shannon all have to sign an agreement. I think re-connecting with her parents would be an essential element in this re-birth strategy." "Well, you've just guaranteed you'll never get to try it," said Caroline, glumly. "Our relationship is so strange. She is perfectly willing to have the kids stay here. Sometimes, we can have very comfortable times together. But there is definitely a wall that keeps us a safe distance from her personal life. She will never sign anything that requires us to sign." "Caroline, I am totally shocked about it myself, but she has already agreed. Otherwise, I would not have bothered to even approach you about it. In fact, once you hear some of the specifics I have planned, you will be even more surprised she agreed. I don't know if it's desperation, or the fact that she somehow trusts me, or if she subconsciously wants me to punish her. We seem to have caught her at just the right time. Here, I have the agreement written out. Go ahead and read it over, then I will explain some more things." They both spent a few minutes reading the one-page agreement. "Greg, can you really afford the time and money to do this?" asked Jim. "I'm sorry I haven't communicated more with you about my life, Jim, but I am very comfortable financially, and I have control of my own time right now. For a lot of reasons, this is something I really want to do." Caroline asked, "Why have you made it so easy and so profitable for her to get out? Aren't you afraid she will just take the money and run when things get uncomfortable?" "That is one of my biggest concerns. However, I personally cannot stand any kind of bondage or slavery. As hard as this may get for her, if she decides on her own to stay in, I think our chances of getting Shannon back are much better." At this last statement, Caroline literally distintegrated in sobs. Jim moved over to comfort her, and Greg, embarrassed, went to the kitchen and refilled his coffee cup. After several minutes, Caroline was finally able to speak. "Oh God, what I wouldn't give to get her back. We lost her when she was only 14, as you know. It has been almost as bad as those kids with pictures on the milk cartons. Can this really work, Greg?" "I wish I could tell you for sure. I do believe that if I can help her, this plan is the only way." Greg then proceeded to describe in detail his plans for the personal trainer, the nutritionist, the beauty consultant, the study program, and other particulars, carefully leaving out the nudity. There was lively discussion and more than a little skepticism. Finally, it was time to spring the big one. "Jim and Caroline, there is one important aspect of the plan that I have not yet mentioned, and it will probably be hard for you to accept. I know you are very reserved and modest people." He paused to collect his thoughts for a moment, then plunged ahead. "Hear me out for a minute before you respond at all, OK?" As both parents nodded uncertainly, he dropped the bomb - "Shannon will be naked for the whole eight months!" Both parents were visibly stunned, and before they could speak, he kept talking. "This is not a sexual thing. I will not have sex with her. She will sleep in her own room. I will never be naked when I am with her." "No way, Greg! That is indecent. I cannot agree to my daughter running around naked for eight months!" Jim exclaimed. Caroline looked too stunned to say anything for a while. Finally, "Oh, Greg, that just seems too extreme. It's indecent. How could she ever stand the humiliation? Why does she have to be naked?" "My psychiatrist friend feels it is an essential part of the whole re-birthing idea." He went on to explain the reasons as he had to Shannon. "Remember, Shannon has agreed to this. Believe me, her initial reaction was much stronger than yours, but she apparently decided it was worth it. If you should agree, Shannon should not know that you know of her nakedness." From Caroline, "You mean there is more of a basis for this than just enslavement and humiliation?" "Actually, the inevitable humiliation would be a strong incentive for weight loss and physical conditioning. I plan to put up mirrors literally all over the house. But besides that, the symbolism of stripping away all pretense and camouflage is considered effective for this kind of treatment." "There is one other essential thing I would want from you. This will be very hard, and should be kept from Shannon. I want the two of you to visit her at my place - frequently, and soon after we start." "You want me to see my own adult daughter naked? Visit with her? That's crazy! That's just wrong! I couldn't do that!" Jim was obviously angry. "We appreciate you wanting to help, Greg, but this is way over the top." "OK. As I said, I won't proceed without you. Shannon is willing, but that's not enough. Will you do one thing for me before you completely reject the plan? Will you bring Shannon and the kids up for the day next Saturday? Bring your swimsuits, and we'll have a barbecue by the pool. I will have my psychiatrist friend stop in so you can chat with her." "We would like to see your place and visit some more", said Caroline. "A three hour round trip all together might be pretty uncomfortable, but we will try. Don't get your hopes up for us agreeing, though." "I really want all of you there. Let me know if you can work it out." Saturday If he had not been so concerned about the big issue, Greg would have really enjoyed the day. The weather was perfect and his barbecue was delicious, if he did say so. They kids had a blast in the pool, but overall were extremely well behaved. When he first saw Janie in her swimsuit, he thought he would choke. It was like jumping back 20 years and seeing Shannon! Shannon refused to swim, claiming she did not have a suit. Greg could not avoid thinking humorously that if they all signed, the swimsuit problem would be moot. Caroline & Jim had had a long discussion with Julia, and had seemed unusually reserved ever since. Julia had asked to speak privately with Shannon as well, but that session had been much shorter. She had stayed for lunch, and there had been one good laugh when Janie asked if she was Greg's girlfriend. After everyone had finished eating and Julia had left, it was obviously decision time. When the kids were out of sight, Jim said to Shannon, "Honey, if you are ready to sign, we are!" Shannon visibly trembled for a moment, then straightened her shoulders and said, "Let's do it!" Greg got four copies he had prepared and they all signed them all. He then told them to select a safe word when he stepped away. With that, they made preparations to drive back home. As they were all heading toward the car, Greg gently took Shannon's arm and said, "Shannon, you stay. It starts now." Stunned, she looked at him in disbelief for a moment, then said, "But I don't have anything with me!" "Right!" was his response. Shannon looked like she was trying to catch her breath. She started to speak but he cut her off. "This is not negotiable. Say goodbye to the kids. Tell them I set up an appointment for you in town and you have to stay. Your folks will know why." Looking pale and frightened, she did as he instructed, and they stood together and watched they others pull away for home. ***** "Come on inside and get familiar with the house. I'll show you your room." As soon as they entered the house, Shannon stopped as if frozen in place. Greg was several steps away when he noticed she was not following. When he walked back to her, she asked plaintively, "D..Do I have to strip, now?" He almost laughed, but knew she was too fragile to handle that. Truth was, he was pretty nervous about her getting naked, as well. He thought for a long moment, then asked her to come into the family room and sit down." "Remember, you are here by your own choice. You will obey everything I tell you to do by your own choice. I will give you some choice of when you get naked, too. I have a suggestion. We take the rest of today and tomorrow to relax and get more comfortable with each other. Tomorrow at bedtime, you get into the hot tub naked. I will join you, in a swimsuit, of course. I will leave the hot tub first and go to bed. You will dry off there, leave the towel, and go to your room naked. When you come out of your room Monday morning, that will be the decision point. If you are dressed, I will drive you back home, and the whole plan is done. If you are naked, it means you agree to stay." "I can sense you are more nervous about first getting naked than about anything else that might happen. If worrying about it keeps you from relaxing and talking with me, maybe you should just do it now and get it over with. Like everything else, it's your choice." A flash of relief crossed her face, but it was soon replaced by the same tension. He took her on a very thorough tour of the whole place, trying to be as relaxed and friendly as he could be. It took a great effort of will not to display the same nervousness she felt. Shannon said hardly anything throughout the tour. When they came back to the family room, he offered her something to drink. She asked for a diet Coke, but said she had to use the bathroom first. He got himself a mineral water, and sat down to think of how to get her to talk to him. He heard her come back into the room from behind and turned to talk to her. He dropped the bottle of mineral water when he saw that she was naked. "I..I couldn't stand it! I just had to get it over with." There were tears streaming down her face, she was flushed bright red, and she had her hands trying to cover as much as possible. Flexing his will power, he looked her right in the eye. "I'm really glad you decided to stay. I'm going to get my suit on. Let's go for a swim." "But it's outside. Someone might see me." "I've checked, and no one can see into my yard unless they work very hard at it. Look, I think swimming will be a good way to start getting used to no clothes. As I remember, you are a really good swimmer." After they had been in the pool a few minutes, Shannon mostly huddling under water in the deep end, Greg told her he needed to make a phone call, and he would be back in a few minutes. Inside, he dialed Julia and told her the plan was on, and Shannon was already naked. She seemed surprised but very pleased. "I need a little help, Julia." "I'll help any way I can." "Well, I was so pessimistic about this happening, I didn't do any of the ground work. First of all, can you find me a doctor who will do a complete physical immediately - preferably Monday? What I really want is assurance that it is OK to proceed with the diet and exercise program." "That is a challenge! I do have a few favors I can call in. If it's cash, full price, it would make it easier." "No problem. I just want it fast and thorough." "I hope you weren't planning on a house call." "No, no, nothing like that. We have to make a shopping trip for a few other necessities, anyway, so she will have to dress and go out. I know who I want for her personal trainer, even if I haven't approached him yet." "Him? You're going to have her working nude with a male trainer?" "Every week. He really is the best, and he is a good friend I can trust. Do you think that is a bad idea?" "Hmmm. Hadn't thought about it. I guess having some other men see her naked is just part of the program. It sounded like you need someone else, though." "Yes. A really good, discrete, nutritionist. Know anyone?" After just a few seconds, Julia exclaimed, "Oh, of course! Yvonne Torres. She would be perfect. She is really into fitness, as well, so she knows just the right foods for Shannon's situation. Not that it's important, but she is attractive, as well. "I will want complete menus planned out for a week at a time, so that will be more work. I will pay her top dollar. How do you know her?" "Uh..just someone I have met and later worked with." "Oh, you mean a former patient?" "You know that's a no-comment subject." She chuckled lightly. "I think once I describe the program to her, she will be eager to participate, but the nudity could be a deal-breaker. I'll call her today, and have her call you." "One other big favor. Could you make your first visit tomorrow evening? I know it's Sunday, but I will be doing a lot of setting up earlier tomorrow, and we will have gone shopping. She has already met you, so it would be good if you were the next to see her naked. In fact, why don't you come for dinner at 6:30. Better come alone this time." "I can do that. Frank's on the road again, so alone is assured. See you then." ***** After coming in from the pool, Greg asked Shannon to sit in the family room and talk for a while. She perched stiffly in a chair, legs crossed and arms folded. He thought he should say something about her relaxing and not covering up, but decided to let it happen in its own time. "Shannon, the fact that you are really here has caught me rather by surprise. I have to admit I did not believe it would happen. Let me ask you, why did you decide to take me up on it?" "You had it right. I has heading either back to drugs or to sleeping pills. I already hated myself so much I could hardly stand it. Then seeing you was like holding up a mirror and seeing how bad I really was. I just couldn't take it. You are literally the only hope I have." "So you want to change so badly you will even do it naked?" "I am having a terrible time with that, as you can see. I'm still not convinced it is necessary, but you are, and you won't do it any other way. I have rationalized it all kinds of ways. If you're punishing me for what I did to you, then I have it coming, and maybe I will actually feel better because of it. If it's just penance for all of my screw-ups, well, I deserve that, too. Julia, the doctor, seems to really believe it is an important part of starting a new life. Anyway, here I am, in the flesh!" She giggled briefly, the first sign of relaxation she had shown. "I am glad you are here! I am also humbled that you trusted me enough to take this step. I have to admit, I will be shooting from the hip on lots of things. With your help, and Julia's, I will try to get things right as soon as possible. Here's what I do have planned, so far; tomorrow, we will go shopping and pick up some things that we need to have here. Later, Julia is coming over for supper." "What kinds of things do we need to buy?" "There are quite a few I can think of. We need some running shoes for you, and some sport bras." "Why bras if I am to be naked?" "When you are on the treadmill, it is probably best for you not to bounce all over. I want to get several identical two-piece swimsuits, and several identical leotards in decreasing sizes." "Whatever for?" "Every Monday we are going to have a recording session. We will record your weight and all your measurements. I'm going to have you make a chart for the numbers. It will hang on the wall of the workout room." "You mean where anyone can see it? Ooooh, I guess that's the least of what they can see, isn't it?" "I guess so. I also want to take pictures every week to record your progress." "Wait a minute! Naked pictures are not part of the deal." "The naked ones will be just for you, if you want to keep them. The sets in the swimsuit and the leotard will be for you to show other people someday, if you choose. You should have a nice housecoat and some decent slings or sandals to keep near the front door." "Why is that?" "I cannot be here with you all the time. I want you to stay naked while I am gone, but if someone unexpected comes to the door, you will be able to look 'normal' when you answer." "That's thoughtful. Thank you." "Remember, humiliating you is not my objective. Changing you is. Also for your safety and comfort, I will always have my cell phone on when away. I will show you the speed dial on the house phone. Since you only have your purse with you, you'll need to get cosmetics and female supplies..." She gasped, then, "Ohmygod! My period is due in a few days! I can't go around naked when that's on! Please!" "How long does the flow last?" "Three or four days." "Each month, you pick the first day, and you can wear swimsuit bottoms for four days. Does that make you feel better." "Oh, yes! My boobs still get swollen and heavy, but at least....You were married, right, so you know about these things?" "Yes, I was. My ex was something of a PMS monster, so I REALLY know about 'these things.'" He couldn't help chuckling to himself. This woman, whom he had assumed was so hard-bitten and worldy-wise, needed to talk obliquely about her menstrual cycle. Maybe if there was this much modesty left, a lot of other good things were still in there, too. "Now, how about the cigarettes? How do you want to quit? If cold turkey is going to make a tough situation even worse, I will let you choose another method. I suppose you have a few in your purse, and if you really need a smoke, you can step outside and have one. Let me know in the morning what you want to do. I never have alcohol in the house, and, of course, no recreational drugs of any kind. In fact, only a few basic over-the-counter items. Are you on any meds? Anti-depressants?" "I have been, but I've only taken them off and on. Let's assume I won't need them." "That reminds me. Julia is trying to find a doctor who will do a complete physical for you Monday or Tuesday. I don't want to start any vigorous diet or exercise without one." "I hate doctors! Besides, I don't have any medical insurance right now, so I can't pay for an exam." "That's part of my cost. Don't worry about it. Sometime next week, a nutritionist will be coming for her first weekly visit. Probably a week later, your personal trainer will be here for the first time." He thought it best not to mention gender just now. They chatted for several more minutes about shopping and what things were needed. After a pause, Shannon asked: "Greg, what am I going to do with myself all day every day?" "That will be the least of your problems. Before long, you will be wishing for more hours in the day. I am going to have you lay out a detailed schedule for your days, then journal exactly what you did. You will work up to two hours a day of exercise. Studying for your GED will take 2-3 hours. I want you to read at least one newspaper thoroughly, and watch at least one hour of a news channel every day. We will spend probably an extra hour around mealtime discussing current events, politics, etc." "I never pay much attention to that." "That needs to change. It is part of expanding your horizons and thinking about something besides yourself. Every day, you will talk to your parents and your kids. It would be good to pick a regular time to call, and stay with it." "What will I talk about every day?" "That should not be a problem. Ask about their lives. Start to really find out about someone else." "How am I going to study for my GED? Will I have to go to a school?" "On the Internet." "But, I've never used a computer!" "Then, that will be the first part of your learning." "Wow! I guess I won't have much time to get bored, will I?" "When you have free time, I hope you can really relax, instead of getting bored. Later on, I have some outside activities I may want you to get into." "What are those?" "Let me keep that a secret for a while yet." "If I'm going out, I'll need to buy some clothes. I don't really have any decent ones even back home." "Clothes we will buy only when really needed so we're sure they fit. You will only need them for short periods, anyway. You can wear the clothes you came in shopping and to the doctor. After that, it will be a while before you go out again." "So, I really am kind of a prisoner, huh?" "I prefer to think of you more as a patient. And, I hope, a friend. The isolation has a purpose." For the first time, Shannon had relaxed her posture a bit. She had moved her arms, and her breasts were completely exposed. When she first undressed, and all the time at the pool, he had killed himself to look only at her face when she could see him. Now, he let himself examine her breasts in detail. He could not guess what their normal size was, but in her teens, they were medium sized. Now, they were very full and quite pendulous. There was a roll of flesh where they 'hinged' on each side. Her aureolae were about half-dollar sized and not very dark. As he watched, her nipples crinkled and expanded until they jutted about a half inch. "Uhhh...Greg. You're staring at me." "Yes, I am. That's something you'll have to get used to. I see you don't find it totally repulsive." "What...Oh!" She flushed and quickly covered up again. "Please don't cover up. I am going to be seeing every inch of you constantly. The sooner you get used to that and just let it happen, the sooner you will feel comfortable here. I will try not to be crude or obnoxious, but I am a male, and you are a naked female. I cannot avoid looking, OK?" She sat looking thoughtful for a few moments, then dropped her arms down again. "I really am quite modest naturally, you know. It has always been hard to expose myself. I could probably get over that easier if I didn't look so ugly. It's like I just want to hide myself in shame." "Please believe I am not looking at you with disgust. I feel bad for you that you have gotten into this condition. But I really do want to help. The need to look is just pure biology. For this next eight months to work like we want it to, I am going to have to learn everything about you - more than anyone has known before - more than you ever thought you would let be known. I'm talking not just your body, but your emotions, your fears, your fantasies, your biases - everything. I guess nakedness is important because clothes are the most obvious means of hiding something you don't want known. With clothes gone, and nothing hidden, hopefully, it's easier to expose those other things. I guess that's why Julia felt nudity was so important to this re-birthing." "Why can't you just be naked, too?" "I'm afraid that might defeat the purpose. The focus has to be on you. Anyway, that point is not negotiable." She made a petulant face, but said nothing more. After a light supper, they spent the rest of the evening chatting and watching TV. She seemed a bit more relaxed, but reflexively kept her crotch hidden as much as possible. When it was time to go to bed, she looked hesitantly at him and asked, "Uhhh..do I have to sleep naked?" "That's your choice. You have panties, and I can give you a large T-Shirt if you want. I would recommend you sleep naked, though, just to help you adjust to it. What you do in your room is your choice, though." She did not reply, but did not ask for the shirt, and they both retired. - <end of zipped file 'PP1.TXT'> - <zipped file 'PP2.TXT'> Pygmalion Project (2/13) Week 1 (MF) Week 1: Mid May ----------------------- Sunday Shopping late Sunday morning was about the most unusual experience Shannon ever had. They went first to a sporting goods superstore. She reluctantly picked out a somewhat conservative bikini, returning several that Greg judged too modest. She looked ridiculous in it, but he was insistent. He then picked up one of every size down through size eight. They repeated the same drill with the leotard. The shoes and sports bras were easier. The looks they got at checkout would have been hilarious, if she was not so embarrassed. Later, they went to Target for the housecoat, cosmetics, and supplies. She had decided just to do an aggressive tapering off to quit smoking. Greg told her she had just ten days, and they bought just enough smokes to make it. He was relaxed and considerate as they shopped, and treated her to lunch. He acted like this was just a normal shopping outing. He had forwarded the home phone to his cell, and just after lunch, he got a call from Yvonne, the nutritionist. They introduced themselves, and he explained how he wanted her to visit each week and set up a complete menu for the week. She said she would stop by Monday evening, and they could arrange a permanent schedule then. After agreeing on her charges, she rather hesitantly said, "Julia tells me that Shannon is naked, but it is nothing kinky - no bondage or S&M. I find that rather hard to believe. I want to talk to Shannon alone for a while, and if I don't think the setup is right, I won't be able to work for you." "I'm actually pleased to hear you say that. I want you to be comfortable and enthusiastic about helping her out. I think we can do something unique and significant here. See you tomorrow evening." Back home, Shannon almost froze coming through the door again. She had only been dressed for a few hours, but it was almost as hard coming out naked again as it was the first time. She wondered if it would ever become easy. He had her swim laps for fifteen minutes, then she decided to do her phone calls. She was very nervous, so they planned out what she should tell the kids about why she was at his house. He left her alone, and she spent nearly an hour by the time she had talked to all four. She was exhausted when she finished, but was surprised how well the talks had gone. Apparently, her folks had briefed the kids pretty well. They were apprehensive about the long absence, but very supportive of her goal. Terry was concerned that she might miss all of his wrestling matches later in the fall and winter. She did not know what to tell him about that. It was getting to be late afternoon, and Greg told her he wanted her to do her first session on the treadmill. Swimming and walking were the only exercises she would be doing until the physical was completed and her trainer had worked out a plan. He told her to put on her new shoes and her sport bra. When she came out, she was blushing and very nervous again. "God, Greg, this is almost worse than being completely naked! With my boobs covered but my ass and pussy bare, I feel awfully exposed. Couldn't I please put on some bottoms for exercising?" "No, sorry! We're going to stick with the program. The bra is not to allow you to cover up, but to stop any harm from prolonged jiggling." "More like flopping!", she retorted. She was already having trouble, but when she walked into his exercise room, she practically froze. Because of his competitive running in high school and college, and his high school football, Greg had always been in perfect physical condition. Until, that is, the divorce and the push to the sale overtook him. He had let himself slide, not to the extent of gaining weight, he was driving himself too hard for that, but he lost energy and concentration. When things settled down, he vowed to make proper conditioning a top life-long priority. When he bought and remodeled the house, he added a club-quality exercise area. It had a treadmill and stationary bike, several weight machines for different muscle groups, along with a rack of dumbbells and an area of tumbling mats. Three sides of the room were nearly all mirrored, and the lighting was very bright. Everything stood out in sharp, unforgiving detail. When Shannon had first toured the room, she was dressed. Now, in her accentuated nakedness, she was near panic. "I can't stand this! I see myself everywhere! I look so bare and so awful. Please, don't make me do this!" Greg wondered to himself how many of these crisis points they would have to work through. He talked gently to her, letting her gradually calm down and adjust to the reflections. He showed her how to work the treadmill, and after a few minutes, she got on and started it very slowly. She was walking in almost mincing steps, and when he reached over to speed up the track she said, "Don't speed it up! I can't go any faster." "Of course you can. You're barely strolling, now." "But..but.." "Shannon, you can't walk with your thighs held together. It doesn't work." "But, if I take long steps, my cunt lips will be out in the open every step! It's too embarrassing!" Sighing, he reached over and paused the treadmill. Taking her hand, he sat her down on a bench. It was time to be tough, again. "Remember, I said I would see every inch of you? Well, let's get over this covering up business right now. Lean back and spread your legs wide open. Let me see everything right now so you won't worry about hiding it from me." "Nooo...that's too much. Please, I can't!" tears starting to form. "You know this will happen sooner or later. Just relax. I won't hurt you, I won't laugh at you, and I won't make you do anything kinky. It's part of the program that nothing is hidden. Now, please, just do it." She looked at him plaintively; looked liked she might balk and end the whole thing right then. Finally, though, a look of determination crossed her eyes, and she jerked her legs apart and leaned back on her elbows. He waited a few seconds, then knelt down with his face only about two feet from her crotch. It wasn't from lust. He just wanted her to get used to her privates being exposed. She flinched as he knelt, but he had positioned himself so she couldn't close her legs. Of course, with her pussy shaved bare, he had already seen just about everything, but he took time to examine her more closely. Her labia were fleshy, probably because of the extra weight. They were no darker than the skin on her belly. Her slit came up the front of her pubic bone a bit, so it was easily visible from a frontal view. He mused on how different this was from Jenna, whose slit was almost completely hidden underneath. He could not see any of the inner lips, and there was only a slight separation over her clit where the ring held the slit apart. "Have you thought of just taking the ring out?," he asked. She reacted as if startled out of a trance. "I would want a doctor to do it, and I haven't seen one in years." "You can have it done when you go for your physical, if you'd like. I'm sure it's just a matter of making sure it's properly disinfected." "I would like to be rid of it. It just attracts attention to my pussy, and, now, that's the last thing I want." "I assume it's through the hood, and not the clit itself?" "Right. Adam wanted it in the clit, but I just couldn't handle the pain." "That should make removal pretty easy, then. Spread your lips open so I can see it." "Huh? You...? She waited a long time, staring at him, then took one hand and spread herself wide open. He could see the hood, but not the clit itself. It was apparently shrunken. At least right now, the fear and embarrassment overwhelmed any feelings of arousal. "Maybe you didn't notice, but you were able to talk quite clinically, there. See, it's just something you have to get used to. There is one more thing I want you to do, now. Get down on the mat on all fours, spread your knees apart, and lower your shoulders." "You're kidding! That's gross!" "I know, but it's the last piece of shock therapy here so you won't worry about covering up anymore." Again, exhibiting some hidden determination that surprised him, she did as he asked. He again knelt behind her and stared for a few moments. Then, he touched her lightly and briefly on the hip and stood up. She yelped and rolled quickly to her side. She looked up at him with a combination anger and fear, and he knew instantly he had made a mistake. "Please, forgive me for touching you like that. I just wanted to let you know you could get up. I'm new at this, too, and I don't want to do anything to frighten you or make you mistrust me. I promise not to touch you again without your permission, OK?" She sat motionless, breathing heavily, then said, "I guess I'm too jumpy. I know you didn't mean anything, but I was really tense and it startled me. Being in that position has some bad memories for me. I'm OK, now." Finally, back on the treadmill, he was able to get the speed up to where she was taking decent strides. He could see how bad her conditioning was, and set the timer for only fifteen minutes. "I'm going to the study to make a phone call. When it stops, just get a drink, or shower, or whatever, and wait for me in the kitchen." In the study, he dialed Alex Torvold, his best friend and an old teammate. Alex was two years ahead of him at college, but had stayed on the team staff after his eligibility ended. While Greg had been a middle distance man, Alex was a pentathlete. He had studied sports medicine and done extremely well for himself. He was now on the training staff with two of the local pro teams, as well as their alma mater. As an additional business, he was in demand as a personal trainer for both athletes and celebrities. To top it all off, he was a trained, licensed masseur. In all Alex' experience, though, Greg was sure he had never heard anything like this call. After some brief preliminaries, Greg just laid the whole thing on him. "Why do you want me", Alex asked. "Because I trust you to be discrete and considerate. Because she needs to lose a third of her body weight. Because you are the best. This is such a crazy, intimate situation, there is no one else I would even consider. I want a man for her trainer to put some extra pressure on her to improve. I'm hoping there will be some sexual drive to want to look pleasing to you. She is going to need all the incentive we can generate to succeed in this remake." "But, are you going to make her work out naked? How will she feel about that? How will she feel about another man seeing her? I'm not even sure I can handle it. I will be so embarrassed for her?" "And that is exactly why I asked you. You will care about her. Yes, she will have to exercise naked except for shoes and a sports bra for running only. Yes, it will be extremely hard for her. The first session could unravel the whole program, but, somehow, I don't think so. Whether it's desperation or a resurgence of her will power, she has surprised me with her determination, so far." "You said a third of her body weight. Just how much does she weigh?" "Our first weigh-in is tomorrow, but I would guess she now weights about 200. She is carrying that on a rather slender frame. So, you see how critical the bodybuilding will be. If this isn't done right, she could have a real Shar-pei problem when she loses the weight." Alex chuckled slightly at that, and Greg could tell his tension had eased a bit. "There's one other thing I want you to do. I want her to have a good massage each visit and I want to see what you do so I can give her at least a soothing massage after her harder workouts. I will pay you much better than your going rate for your time." "I wasn't too worried about that, but thank you. I still think this is crazy, but I will do it as a favor. If you think this woman is worth all this trouble, I would kind of like to meet her. Say, do you have a romantic interest in her?" "No, I don't. After what we will go through the next eight months, I doubt if a relationship could work. I guess you know I have not completely gotten over Jenna." "Yeah, you've told me that. As a friend, I wish you could get past her, but... When do you want me to start." "In about a week. There are some other things that have to happen first - things that could blow up the whole program and make this conversation moot." Early mornings fit Alex's schedule best, so they agreed on Tuesdays as a regular time. When Greg came back to the kitchen after the call, Shannon was sitting there breathing heavily and drinking a glass of water. "This is awful! Do you know I have not walked for exercise in years? How will I ever run a 10K?" "Eight months is a long time. The trick is too build up gradually. Your trainer will set the right pace." "Who is this trainer, and when is she coming/" "The trainer's name is Alex, and HE is coming a week from Tuesday." "A man! You're going to make me exercise naked in front of another man? Oh, no! I can't do that!" "Alex is my closest friend. He is a real gentleman and a complete professional." He described Alex's credentials and what his businesses were. "I'm sure he has massaged some of his female clients nude." "But none of them look as bad as I do!" "Then do just what he says and start looking better, OK? If you can't do it, tell me now so I can take you home." She sat for a long time, just breathing heavily and staring at her water glass. "I don't want to go back. There is nothing there. This is awfully hard, but I just hate my life. I've got to change. It just seems you are trying to find ways to embarrass me." "No, that is not my intention. Some of the things I have to do are tough, but please believe me, I want this to succeed. I am hitting you with all the outsiders in about the first week. That way, if you can't handle it, neither of us will waste a lot of time. After Alex, it will be a while before you have to meet anyone else." He silently hoped he had not lied to her by not mentioning her parents - they weren't really outsiders, were they? They both sat in silence, then. Finally, he told her she should freshen up before Julia arrived. ***** When the doorbell rang promptly at 6:30, he led her to the study just off the front entry, and had her sit on the loveseat that faced at a right angle to the door. He had two reasons for having her wait here. First, the door was solid, so if it was not someone who should see her, he could just leave it closed. Second, if she panicked, there was no other way out of the room. Predictably, she was very frightened. "Relax, Shannon. You have met Julia already. She knows all about this, and is rooting for you as hard as I am." "But she hasn't seen me like this. You know, it's hard having you or any man see me, but in a way it's worse with a woman. There is almost more shame, especially if she is attractive." "Just remember, Julia is the person you should feel most free to tell everything." Here goes another of those make or break moments, he thought. How many can we pile in one day? When he ushered Julia into the study, Shannon literally froze in panic, hardly even able to breathe. Pro that she was, Julia started talking to her immediately. "Shannon, I am so proud of you for doing this plan. I can't imagine how hard it must be for you to meet people like this. You must really want to change, don't you?" "I..I..I don't just w..want to change. I have to! I feel like if I don't, my life is over." "Well, it's not over by a long shot." Julia walked over and took one of her hands, gently pulling it from in front of her breasts. Shannon resisted a little at first, but then relaxed and looked up at Julia, still with a frightened look. "Together, we are going to let you become what you really want to be, aren't we?" "I..I hope so. It's just so hard to expose myself all the time. I keep thinking I can't do it one more time. I still don't really understand why I have to be naked." "When someone, like me, for instance, comes in and meets you naked, what do they think about you?" "They wonder how I got so fat, and how I could ever expose myself, looking like I do. They think I must be really desperate to do something like this." "People who care won't think about the weight, and Greg will only let people who care meet you. Everyone will think that you must be being completely honest. You would not subject yourself to this, then try to fool or deceive them. Have you always been honest with people, before?" "No way. Us users are the best liars in the world. It's just part of the 'anything' we will do to get the fixes we need." "Why do you say 'us' when you talk about users?" A pause and a startled look. "I'm an addict. I always will be. That won't change." "But you are no longer a user! You are getting forever beyond that. Don't let yourself think about being one of them. This is very important! Part of the reason for being naked is to show that nothing from before is still hanging on to you. You are starting over with an absolutely clean record." All through dinner, Julia kept up a steady conversation, mostly with Shannon. It took him a few minutes to realize it was not just chattiness, but a conscious effort to relax Shannon and keep her mind occupied. After dinner, they sat for a while in the family room. Julia somewhat surprised him by sitting beside him on the sofa, and moving close, touching shoulders and legs. She occasionally laid her hand on his arm or leg, and rested her head on his shoulder briefly once. Shannon had to visit the bathroom, and he asked Julia, "Is this unusual, but very pleasant, cuddliness for Shannon's benefit?" "Julia blushed briefly, then responded, "Oh, you caught on to my non-stop talking tactic, huh? But, no, I'm just enjoying being close to my good friend. What you are doing is unbelievably kind and giving. Women are just naturally attracted to those traits. I just felt the desire to be close. Hope I haven't disturbed you!" She put her arm around his neck and kissed him briefly on the cheek. Startled, he turned toward her and she kissed him again, this time right on the lips. "Not at all! You know you are one of the people I am closest to. It's just that you have always been so reserved and professional with me before." "I guess I just decided you won't really ever be my patient again, and we can go back to being just good friends." "That's fine with me." Surprising himself, he reached over and gave her a warm hug. They had barely rearranged themselves when Shannon returned. "How about a hot tub? Julia, did you happen to bring a suit?" "No, I didn't." Shannon piped up, "Well, we have all those two pieces." At Julia's puzzled look, she explained about the weigh-ins, the swimsuits, and the leotards. "I don't have a two-piece body, though. In fact, I don't have a swimsuit body at all, any more." "Ha! Look who's talking. How do you think I feel. Please, let me get you a suit and let's soak. It really does feel good." Julia suddenly realized this was an important supporting move for Shannon. She turned to Greg, shrugged helplessly, and followed Shannon down the hall to her room. Julia O'Brien Waxman had always been a fascinating woman to Greg. At 47, she had lost none of her innate womanly appeal. A classic redhead, she had piercing gray-green eyes that sparkled while gazing into the depths of your soul. Her face was beautiful, if not in the classic cover girl sense. Her features were regular, well proportioned and extremely expressive. Her detached 'professional' look had taken her a great deal of practice to perfect. She was not a small woman, standing about 5'9". Neither was she slim. All of her parts were substantial, although he had never considered her fat. Well-endowed was a perfect description. Besides her lovely, lively face, her best asset was her incredible skin. Creamy white and freckled, it appeared to him to be without a flaw. Of late, there was no question she had put on extra weight, perhaps 20 pounds, or so, enough so it was starting to show on her face and neck. At their first ever meeting years ago, she was dressed up for dinner out, and he could hardly stammer through the introductions. Her clinging cocktail dress showed off her hourglass figure, her waist seeming almost impossibly small between her bulging breasts and her lush hips. Jenna had a marvelous figure, but somehow, she seemed like a pre-teen standing next to Julia. As they became better acquainted, he saw her in casual clothes, even shorts. There was nothing that could make her look anything but sexy. Later, when she was treating him, it was hard to adjust to the professional dress and demeanor. Indeed, she had been reluctant to treat him because of the friendship that had developed. Julia's husband, Frank, was CEO and owner of a successful women's fashion house. He was 12 years older than Julia. Frank had been Greg's key customer for his logistics management software. Greg was struggling with just a few smaller manufacturing firms as clients, and his company's future was very much in doubt. Jenna had wanted to attend a fashion show and he had agreed to take her. After the show, he had accidentally overheard an angry exchange between a department store buyer and a fashion house sales rep. The buyer loved the line, but the rep could not ship for several weeks, almost missing the season. Greg knew nothing of the fashion business, but he knew a logistics snafu when he heard one. He caught the name of the manufacturer from the rep's briefcase, and personally made the call. Somehow, he got through the usual maze of skeptical, resistant administrators and managers, and ended up with the boss. Frank had just been reamed by an angry department store CEO, and was surprisingly receptive. He invited Greg and Jenna to dinner with him and his wife at their club. Frank later confided that he relied heavily on Julia to vett any prospective business relationships. Fortunately, Greg passed. It took two fashion seasons, but through a monumental effort, Frank's company attained a reputation as the most reliable supplier in their market. Surprisingly, no other fashion houses came calling, but Frank was well-connected in the business communty, and Greg was soon off to the races. He could honestly say he owed his success to Julia. Later, he came to owe his mental well-being - his sanity - to her. He was almost surprised to see Julia look a bit embarrassed as she dropped her towel and stepped into the hot tub. She, who was always composed and in control! From his brief look, he could see the extra padding she was concerned about, but she still looked womanly and desirable. They enjoyed a congenial soak for a half-hour, toweled off and dressed, then said goodbye until next Sunday evening, their agreed upon regular get-together time. Monday The first thing Monday morning, they did the weigh-in and measurement session. He had her do all the measurements, first, and write them down. Later, she would prepare a chart to show her progress. Several times, tears coursed down her cheeks when she saw the numbers. Next, he set up his digital camera on a tripod and shot the nude sequence first. He had decided on a series of ten standard shots they would use each week. He took front, back, and both sides standing, then several typical body-building poses. Some of these shots looked frankly pathetic. She barely held it together through it all. They did the same sequence in the bikini and the leotard. He convinced her to don and remove the suit and the leotard right there without retreating to her room. He did turn around while she changed, since this action was somehow harder then just being nude. He again had to assure her no one but she would see the pictures, unless she showed them. Julia had arranged a physical for late morning on Monday. The doctor was rather stern in his assessment of her condition, but raised no objection to her diet and exercise program. Back home, Greg immediately noticed the missing clit ring when she came out from her room. "Did it hurt to remove the ring? Is there any pain now." "No, it was really quite painless. Were you looking for the ring in particular, or do you just naturally check out my pussy all the time?" "Just biology, remember? Besides, we did talk about it yesterday." In the few hours before Yvonne was due to arrive, she did her laps in the pool, then made her phone calls when the kids got home. When the doorbell rang late in the afternoon, he led Shannon to the study to wait while he went to the door. When he opened it, he paused an embarrassing time before finally opening his mouth. Julia's description of 'attractive' missed the mark by half. "H..hello, Yvonne, I'm happy to meet you. Please come in." He noticed her giving him a long, appraising look, as well. "Would you like to meet Shannon right away, or would you rather find out more about me first?" She seemed surprised at his question, but responded quickly. "I would really like to find out about you from Shannon, Let me meet her and talk to her alone for a while. Would that be all right?" He readily agreed and led her into the study. Shannon was once again almost catatonic and near tears when they entered the room. "Shannon, this is Yvonne Torres, the nutritionist. She would like to speak to you alone for a while. Join me in the kitchen when you are finished." He brewed a fresh pot of coffee, and was well into a second cup when the two women came into the kitchen. He threw them a questioning look, but said nothing. "Well, Greg, I was not at all sure I would be staying to work with you. I really came out of deference to Julia. I really do not understand or like this nudity business. Shannon, however, has convinced me there is no coercion involved, and that she really wants to change no matter what it takes. If she is that determined, I will be honored to help her. Tell me what you would like me to do." "I want to set up a complete eating plan that will allow Shannon to safely lose two pounds a week for 35 weeks. She will be ramping up to a vigorous exercise program at the same time, using an expert personal trainer. My ideal would be for you to devise a complete menu for each week, plus any supplements you recommend for Shannon. You can include me on the menu." With that, Yvonne set about planning the first week's menu. She asked many questions about what Shannon liked or disliked, about any problems with certain types of foods, about water consumption, etc. When she asked about alcohol, he told her there would be none in the house, and that he was a teetotaler. This drew an intense look from Yvonne, but she did not comment. While doing the planning, she stayed next to Shannon, across the table from him. She would glance at him occasionally, but did not address him directly. When the planning was done, she gave them the completed menu and and the ingredients list, along with a list of recommended supplements. "I could email you the information in the future if you would prefer." Greg sensed she might actually prefer this, but he did not think it was best for Shannon. "No, I would really like to have you here in person each week, if you can work it in. I will be happy to pay your for your travel time." Yvonne gave him another long look with an indecipherable expression, then agreed to visit again each Monday afternoon. At the door, she said a polite goodbye, but did not extend her hand. It was obvious she was at least uncomfortable with him. Perhaps she really disliked him. Why had Julia recommended her? She must have had some idea of her reaction to him and the situation. What was Julia's connection with her? Of course! She must be a patient! It would be just like Julia to put Yvonne in this situation for therapeutic purposes. He went back to the kitchen and chatted with Shannon a few minutes. She was stressed by the encounter, but liked Yvonne. She left to visit the bathroom, and was gone a long time. When she returned, she was wearing the swimsuit bottom. With a red face, she stammered out, "Uh...remember I said my period was close? Well, it's here." "We knew it would happen. Let's try to keep up your normal schedule, but let me know if you are feeling too bad to continue, OK?" With that, he fixed them supper. As he thought ahead, he realized her four days would end Friday, so she would be totally naked again for the weekend. Later, while Shannon did the treadmill, we went to the study and called Yvonne. "Yvonne, this is Greg. I could tell you were uncomfortable here today, and I'm sorry if I made it any worse." "You've got to admit, this deal is a 10 on the weird scale." "Yes, I suppose it is. Did Julia tell you why she is naked?" "No, she told me very little, except that this woman could really use my help, and that you were willing to pay for it." "Well, I would appreciate it if you would talk to her some more. Let me just say the nudity was her idea, not mine, and, believe me, I am not finding it easy, either." "Oh, I didn't know that." "The real reason I called was to give you the chance to do the planning by email if being here was too difficult. The reason I wanted you to visit in person was to give Shannon as much outside contact as possible. Also, learning to face people when naked is part of the process Julia has set up. I just did not consider that others coming into the house would be as uncomfortable as I was, and I shouldn't expect you to just accept it." "I really appreciate your offer. I will talk to Julia and let you know in a day or two. Would that be all right?" He agreed, and they ended the call. ***** The rest of the week was a blur of activity, only slightly curtailed by her menstrual problems. After an early swim for her and his morning run, they started right in with computer lessons. Within a few hours, she was able to log into the home delivery grocery site and order the groceries needed for Yvonne's planned menu. Next, they ordered the supplements, which would arrive by mail in a few days. Over lunch, they worked out a schedule for sharing meal preparation. After lunch, he showed her how to do searches, and they located several candidates for online GED completion. She had never sent or received an email, so he told her to make sure to get addresses from her parents and her kids when she talked to them next. After the first two days, the phone conversations got shorter, and he encouraged her to pick a single subject to focus on with each person each day. She was hungry! She had expected the diet to be difficult, but it was more than just her stomach. When waves of depression and self-pity came over her, she needed to eat! Or at least smoke, and her agreed on supply of cigarettes was almost gone. The few things Yvonne had authorized for snacking did little good. She found that the full feeling from drinking lots of water helped a little. She had never seriously dieted before, and she could not imagine keeping this up for eight months! Greg was hardly out of her sight that first week. She figured he did that on purpose to keep her occupied and not thinking of food. Just wearing the bottoms made being around him quite a bit easier. The Internet was a whole new world. She found the learning easy, and completing that first grocery order gave a feeling of accomplishment she had rarely experienced of late. Wednesday evening, Yvonne called to say she would hold to her scheduled Monday afternoon visits. Julia had explained the re-birthing concept and that it was her idea. She sounded actually friendly on the phone. After Shannon retired that evening, he called the Randolphs and asked them to come up for dinner Saturday evening. Jim was still very reluctant and wanted to delay, but Greg was insistent and he agreed to come. Saturday "Oh, someone is at the door. Wait in the study while I see who it is." Reluctantly, Shannon went into the study off the front entry. Greg had had her wait here for the other guests who had come, so everything was 'normal.' She knew to sit in the love seat, facing the door. Greg went to meet Shannon's parents, whom he had cautioned to be silent when they entered. Heart beating wildly, Greg ushered them into the study. Caroline could not stifle a slight gasp as she saw Shannon's sitting there naked. Whatever reaction he had expected or feared, what happened surpassed it. After a stunned moment, Shannon emitted an ear-piercing shriek. She dove into the corner of the loveseat and curled into a ball. Her knees were up against her chest, and her arms around her knees. "OH, NO, NO, NO! GOD, NO, NO, NO!" she kept moaning over and over, rocking herself as if in a trance. "How could you do this? This is too much! I can't take it. OH, NO, NO, NO!" Then nothing but wracking sobs. "Get out! Get out of here! He can't bring you in here! You can't see me like this!" "We'd better leave," Jim said. "No, you need to stay. We've got to get through this," Greg replied. "I'M DONE! I'M LEAVING RIGHT NOW! JUST GET THEM OUT OF HERE SO I CAN DRESS AND LEAVE! NOW!! OH, NO,NO,NO!" More violent sobs. Despite Greg's restraining hand on his arm, Jim turned and led Caroline out of the study. They had been warned repeatedly that this was a crucial step in the process. They knew her reaction could be extreme. But when it actually happened, they could not deal with it. Greg sat in the office chair opposite the loveseat and looked dejectedly at the still huddled and whimpering Shannon. He said nothing and she didn't move for several minutes. Finally, she sat up and stared angrily at him. "That was completely rotten! I can't believe you would try that! Shit! My parents! Get me my clothes, right now. I'm getting dressed, and you can keep your part of the bargain and take me back. I can't ride with them after this." "I've told you all along your parents are a key part of this plan. They care about you more than anyone else alive. You've decided to do the plan. Some strangers have already seen you naked. Why can't you accept your parents seeing you through the eyes of love?" "I just can't! Now you've really done it! I'll never be able to even visit them again! I'll be too embarrassed! Now, just get my fuckin' clothes so...WHAAA!!!!....OH MY GOD!!! She stiffened and stared at the doorway. Seeing her reaction, Greg rose, turned toward the door, and almost fell over from what he saw. There stood Jim and Caroline, NAKED! Jim stood slightly ahead, farthest from Greg. His arms were at his sides, and one hand clutched Carolines's tightly. Caroline stood slightly behind Jim, her breast up against the back of his arm. She was blushing fiercely, and her other arm was hunched toward her breast, her hand covering her pussy. She glanced nervously at Greg and shuddered slightly. Greg thought she might faint. Suddenly, she dropped her hand, raised her chin, moved up even with Jim, and threw her shoulders back. Having always considered them a handsome older couple, Greg couldn't resist a closer look. In their mid-50s, both could pass for younger. At about 5'11", Jim had a wide-shouldered, angular build. His arms, shoulders, and upper torso were beefy but not flabby. He did not have a visible six-pack, but his belly protruded only slightly, and he had modest love handles. He had the jutting ass of an athlete, well cushioned, but not flabby. His thighs were tight and substantial, with surprisingly thin calves. His pubic thatch showed no signs of the moderate graying of his head. His flaccid penis looked to be slightly longer than average, but noticeably thicker. His balls were definitely larger than average. Greg could see how difficult it was exposing his privates to his daughter from the obvious strain mingled with determination on his face. Greg remembered his vehement reaction to the possibility of seeing his daughter naked. While growing up, Caroline had embodied Greg's idea of 'woman.' She was statuesque and graceful. 'Elegant' was a description he learned as he grew older. Now, he was ashamed of the times in his youth when he wondered what she looked liked under the always modest clothing she wore. Now that he saw her completely, he was impressed. She showed no signs of wrinkling anywhere, except for the 'character lines' around her mouth and eyes. Even her neck was smooth and tight. The flesh on her shoulders and chest was smooth and soft-looking. Her medium-sized breasts were pleasingly full, and showed only moderate sag. Her aureoles were large and dark, but here nipples, although apparently hard, did not protrude far. Her waist was quite small and her belly protruded pleasantly, marred by a couple of small surgical scars and some stretch marks. Her hips flared nicely, while her ass was rather flat and tight. Caroline's legs had always impressed Greg - they seemed to take up most of her 5'8" height. He could see that she took care of them. There was no cellulite all the way to her crotch. She kept her pubic hair trimmed quite short, but it extended down over her labia. The pubic color was identical to the medium brown on her head. While Greg registered all this, Shannon sat motionless, hunched over with her arms instinctively covering her bulging breasts. Still almost in a trance, she murmured "What are you doing? WHY?" "Shannon, honey, your father and I have come to believe Greg's plan is your last, best chance for happiness. If our seeing you naked was going to ruin it, we hoped our being naked would change your mind. We couldn't think of anything else to do! Please don't leave! We desperately want to be part of your life! Let us in, please!" "But..but..I've never seen either of you naked - EVER!" "Honey, no one but your father and my doctor ever has!" Greg thought back over the years. Caroline had always worn knee length dresses, generously cut slacks, and loose fitting blouses and sweaters. In hot weather, her shorts were loose and halfway down her thighs. His rare memory of her in a swimsuit was of a chaste one-piece. This woman was modest! And look at her now! He started to shake just thinking of the enormity of what she was doing, and was almost ashamed of himself for looking at her. "Ex..excuse me! I..I'll leave you alone," Greg said, finally recovering slightly from his shock. "But Greg, didn't you invite us for dinner?" Caroline asked. "You..you mean you're going to stay like this?" he asked incredulously. "Well, Shannon has to, doesn't she?" asked Jim. That was it! Greg totally lost it. His eyes suddenly filled with tears. He collapsed back onto his chair and began shaking with racking, heaving sobs. He did not want to cry in front of Shannon, but he just could not help himself. For several minutes, he could barely catch his breath, he was sobbing so hard. Finally, he felt a gentle hand on his lowered head, and smelled a combination of pleasant perfume and woman smell that could only be Caroline. "What's wrong, Greg?" Still struggling for breath, he finally blurted out "God, I just hope someday I can love someone enough to do what you just did!" Then Shannon lost it! Still huddled over, she started a high-pitched wail, breaking into gasping moans. She kept this up for many minutes, rocking back and forth, clutching her breasts. Caroline gently stroked Greg's head as he gradually regained his composure. Jim sat down beside Shannon and gently rubbed her bare shoulders. They all waited until Shannon finally calmed down. Jim went back over and stood by Caroline, holding her hand again. Red-eyed and sniffling, Shannon finally looked up. "I..I..I guess it's my time to stand up and show myself, huh? God, I don't know if I can! You guys are so beautiful. I'm such a fat, ugly mess. How can I show myself? You'll be so disgusted!" "We won't be disgusted, Baby. We want to help you get back to your beautiful self again. Don't be afraid." "God, Dad, you haven't called me 'Baby' since...well, since before I went punk. I guess I kind of am a baby again. I've got to grow up all over again. Well, here goes...get a good look. Try not to gag." With that, she stood up, her eyes downcast, her hands at her sides, twitching from the mental effort to keep from covering her bare pussy. No one moved or said anything for a long time. Finally, to Greg's surprise and chagrin, Shannon spoke up: "Uh, Greg. Aren't you overdressed for dinner?" "Part of the agreement was that I would remain clothed when you were present. I'd better stick with that." "That wasn't part of the written agreement, just your promise. Here, mom has bared herself in front of you. Who can tell how much that cost her. Can't you show support for her by stripping? Besides, you won't be alone with me, so you aren't really breaking the agreement." Greg had always been somewhat body shy. After all, everything about him physically was decidedly average. But his awe of and gratitude for Caroline's nudity won out. Before he could change his mind, he stood right there and stripped off his clothes. As he was folding his slacks over the chair back, he glanced over at Shannon and saw her staring at his flaccid penis. "Oh well," he thought, "I guess she's got a few stares coming." Because of the extreme emotions he had just experienced, an erection was no threat, for which he was thankful. Even in her present overweight condition, being around naked Shannon constantly had caused a constant edge of horniness. Now, however, he would have felt shamefully disrespectful to Caroline if he showed even a twitch. "Now, don't get the idea this is ever going to happen again, Shannon. Anybody for supper?" Fortunately for everyone concerned, dinner preparation was simple. Everyone was eating what Shannon ate. The chef's salad had been prepared ahead of time, and there was a choice of dressings. Greg had picked up some dinner rolls for Jim and Caroline and himself. He had coffee and water ready. There was no wine to offer. Shannon helped Greg with the few setup tasks as her folks watched in astonishment. Caroline offered to help, and seemed rather lost when told everything was under control. She stood uncertainly near the table, her hands clenching and unclenching. It was obvious she was fighting to keep from covering herself. Jim seemed almost in a trance. As they sat down to eat, a new look of consternation showed on Caroline's face. "What's the matter, Caroline, did we forget something?" Greg asked. "No, it..it's just this table. I feel so exposed! I know it's silly - we're already naked - but.." "Tell me about it!" Shannon interjected. "Greg claims he's had this glass top for a long time, but I bet he bought it just to further humiliate me. I hate mealtime! I look my absolute worst sitting here with my fat boobs hanging down on my big belly. Only good thing is there's so much fat you can't see my bare cunt." Jim bristled and started to object: "Shannon, please don't..." Caroline gently placed her hand on his arm and said "Shhh, Jim, it's OK. We're not here to make this any harder on her." Shannon looked up quickly and her jaw dropped, but she said nothing. Everyone ate in silence for several minutes, the tension almost tangible. After a while, Shannon put down her fork, which Greg was happy to see, and spoke to Caroline. "Mom, did you mean it when you said only Dad and your doctor had seen you naked before?" "That's right, dear. At least since puberty, and I don't remember any men seeing me before that." Shannon was silent again and resumed eating. A few minutes later, she again put down her fork, and asked, "Mom, how many men have you seen naked?" "Greg is the second." "You're kidding. Didn't you ever skinny dip, or play strip poker, or 'I'll show you mine'? This must be terrible for you if you're hardly ever naked." "Oh, it's not that we're never naked. Your Dad and I enjoy seeing each other's bodies, and many times we'll be naked around the house for.." Jim nearly choked and said, "Sweetheart, we shouldn't be telling them our secrets. That's private stuff." "Honey, she's sitting here exposing literally everything to us. If we can let her know a little of how we love and enjoy each other, maybe she can see a side of sex, nudity, and love that she might want. We've already undressed our bodies, so what's the harm in showing a little of our private life." Once again, Greg was in awe of this regal woman who could ignore the obvious discomfort of her nakedness and think so much of her wayward daughter's benefit. "Shannon, I just haven't felt I needed to see any other men naked. I really don't care how Jim's body compares to others. I know he keeps it the best he can for me, and I am satisfied. I know men are different, and I know he always appreciates a look at a woman. But I also know I am the one who gets the benefit of his interest. Does that make sense, honey?" "Yeah, I guess. Well, it's easy for you to enjoy looking at each other. You both look so good. You don't have any of this ugly fat you need to hide." "Well, thank you, Shannon. You know, when Greg is done with you, you will be proud of how you look, too." "If I make it that far. I don't think I can take any more days like this. Every second I sit here I just want to jump up and run and hide." "You're being very brave to go through with this. Have any other people seen you?" "I've only been here a week. So far there have just been two women. Greg tells me there will be some men, soon. I don't know if I can handle that. I guess you two were the biggest shock. I had no idea you were coming. I really hate you seeing me like this. I don't see why this is necessary, but I'm not ready to quit, yet. Maybe the hardest is over." Greg thought this was probably a good time to drop a real bombshell. "Uh, Shannon, I think you have some other people you really need to rebuild relationships with, so the hardest may still be ahead. Now you will be able to choose whether you want these people to see you, but I don't think you will consider this whole program successful until you are right with them." "Who are you talking about?" "Your kids, and your brother and sister." "NO WAY! You can't be serious! I could never do that!" "Greg, that's just not right!," Jim said rather angrily. "Now wait a minute! Remember, this is not something I am going to make her do. I won't spring any surprise visits like tonight. If it happens, she will invite them and explain everything. I just happen to think it is important." "But Terry is a young man, now! He shouldn't see his mother naked. How could he handle it?" This from Caroline. "Hey, I didn't say any of this would be easy. Maybe it won't happen at all. Shannon is in a very deep hole. She knows she can't get out of it herself. That's why she signed on for this. She cannot get to where she wants to be without a support system. The family, unless it's dysfunctional, is the best support system. Your family is the opposite of dysfunctional. For her to have the kind of life we all want for her, she has to get connected with her family. She has only been here a week, and I took a huge gamble bringing you here so early. As you saw, the whole plan nearly broke down already. Only your unbelievable love and courage saved it. If it had failed, I would rather it be right away and not after a lot of time and effort had been wasted. Because, if you and she never re-connected, it would all be a waste." "Shannon, do you love your kids?" "I really do, Greg. I don't know them nearly as well as I would like, but they are great kids. They kind of make me feel ashamed when I think of them." "Would you like a normal family relationship with them?" "I'm not sure what that means, but I would like to live with them and try to be a mother to them." "What do they think of you?" "I don't think they trust me. It especially hurts with Janie. She needs a mother right now, but she doesn't come to me with anything. I've had a few talks with her, but I had to take the lead. I guess I can't expect Terry to confide in me." She paused for a while. "You know what's worse than the lack of trust? I feel like they pity me! They are always courteous and obedient, but I think they view me as more of a patient than their authority figure." "What would it take to change that?" "I guess they would have to be convinced I am really changing." "Would seeing you here, naked, convince them?" "But that's just too much! I mean, Terry...." "Your new life won't be complete until you have the relationships you want with the people important to you. I think you are starting to see what that is going to take. Remember, I will not make you see them. It's a matter of what you want, and how you can make it happen. You have made a great start tonight with your parents, but unless you include your kids and your siblings, you won't be complete." "I have been just terrible to Kathy, and hurt Ted in the process. It will be impossible to patch things up with them." Caroline spoke up. "Your brother and sister love you very much. Yes, they have been hurt, but if they are convinced you have changed, they will be as happy as we are." "And Greg thinks the only way to convince them is to let them see me like this! I just can't do it!" The conversation shifted to other, lighter topics. After cleanup and goodbyes, Caroline and Jim got dressed and left. After they had gone, Shannon collapsed in a chair and visibly shuddered. "I'm emotionally wiped out. I could never, ever have guessed what would happen tonight. I am angry with you for surprising me with my parents." "Would you have agreed to see them if I had told you ahead of time?" "No way." "Then you see why it had to be a surprise." "Yeah, but if they hadn't stripped, I'd have been home by now, and the whole plan would have failed." "Doesn't the fact they did that convince you the meeting was right?" "I think I understand better what real love is, now." ***** Neither Jim nor Caroline spoke until they had traveled the several miles to the freeway. Finally, Jim said, "Sweetheart, can you believe what we just did? I would never have thought you would undress in front of anyone, yet you were the one who insisted we do it! " "But what if we hadn't? Where would Shannon be, now? That's my baby, and she's in big trouble! I think we did the only thing we could to save the plan. To save her future!" "You're right, Sweetheart, as usual. It was the hardest thing I've done in a long time, though. After all these years, I have never been more proud of you." "Don't think it was easy for me! I almost couldn't do it because of Greg. He was a gentleman, though, and didn't stare. He did check me out real thoroughly at least once, though." She giggled. "How could he not. You're so beautiful. And I'll bet he has wondered for many years exactly what you looked like." "You think?" "Of course. All young men have a fascination, sometimes even an obsession, with the significant women in their lives. It's just biology." "Well, I hope he was pleased with what he saw." "How could he not be? The most difficult thing for me was not getting hard with you standing there naked. You know how you always affect me." "I sure do!" She giggled again, then reached over and put her hand on his crotch. "I guess you just delayed it for a while, huh?" He just grunted in response. She left her hand there, and after a bit began stroking him lightly. "If you keep that up, you could cause an accident." "Are you that aroused? Guess you are - it's hard as steel. You know, after I got over the initial embarrassment, I was concerned that everyone could smell me, because I was getting pretty aroused, too." She suddenly reached for his belt and unbuckled it. He grabbed at her hand. "Hey! Are you trying to cause another kind of accident?" She swatted at his hand. "Keep your hands on the wheel and we will be safe. There's hardly anyone on the road tonight." Ignoring his further, halfhearted protests, she unzipped him and, with no small difficulty, pulled his turgid cock out into the open. She leaned over to try to take him in her mouth, but found that the center console made it impossible. "Sometimes, it would be nice to have the old fashioned bench seat." Instead, she started stroking him with serious intent. She reached into his fly opening, gently eased his balls out, and began fondling and caressing them. He soon began squirming in his seat, letting out frequent gasps and moans. After only a few minutes, he warned her and she grabbed some tissue and wrapped it over the head to catch his discharge. He gave another loud moan, then lurched violently in his seat as he began to come. He fought to retain control as the strength of the ejaculation shook him again and again. Finally, he exhaled heavily and sagged back. She continued to hold his shaft with the tissue around it and gently caressed his balls. "I just love how they tighten up against you and then jerk when you are coming." "Woman, just wait until I get you with your pants off. I'll show you jerking!" "Hah! Big talk!" She wiped him off, then wrapped a fresh tissue around him and released him. She turned in her seat so her back was against the console and her knees up against the passenger door. She raised her butt and slid her slacks and panties off her hips, up her thighs, and down past her knees. She sat back down and spread her knees as far as she could. "Let's see what you can do with one hand, Big Boy!" She grabbed his right hand from the wheel and placed it over her crotch. Stunned, he spat out "Who the hell got into my car?" When she giggled, he began stroking her labia. He could feel she was already very well lubricated. He stroked gently for several minutes, then stretching as far as he could, inserted first one, then two fingers into her. As he thrust in and out, she began moaning and squirming. As he could feel her agitation growing, he pulled his fingers out and began working her clit in earnest. It was now protruding to its maximum and he worked it vigorously. When her orgasm hit, she clamped a death grip on his arm and convulsed in wave after wave. It seemed to last for minutes, finally receding to a series of shudders as he gently stroked her whole pussy with his open hand. "You are absolutely the sexiest woman alive! You just keep surprising me. How did I get so lucky?" Too exhausted to speak, she just gave a long sigh. After breathing heavily for a while, she piped up "Wow, I guess that nudity really got us going. I hope you can get it up again later when we are home. I want some more!" "What later? I'm ready right now! " "You're kidding! Already?" She started to sit up to turn around, but he held her in place with his arm. "Stay right where you are!" She responded with a sigh and a contented, "OK!" They rode that way in silence for just a few minutes, when he suddenly pulled off the freeway onto a farm access exit. Within a few hundred yards, he found a dirt track leading into a field with no gate across the entrance. He pulled into the field, stopped the car, turned off the headlights and the overhead light, told her not to move, and got out. He walked around the front of the car, his stiff cock and his balls waving in front of him. He opened her door, and to her amazement, took off her shoes, then removed her slacks and panties from around her calves, leaving her naked from the waist down. Without saying a word, he dropped his slacks and briefs to his ankles, put her legs around him, pulled her slightly toward him on the seat, placed his cock at her opening, and pushed completely into her in one stroke. He grabbed her slacks from the floor, folded them up and slid them under her head on the center console for some cushioning. Then he began thrusting. This was no gentle lovemaking. This was what they both wanted and needed - raw, high-energy sex. Because he had come just a while before, he knew he could last long enough to make her come, probably more than once. As he stroked, she lifted her blouse and undid her front clasp bra. He had both hands steadying her hips, so she grabbed both nipples herself and began stroking and twisting them. Being still aroused from her first orgasm, she peaked surprisingly quickly, yelling out loudly as a moderate come overtook her. He didn't slow down, but kept pumping until he felt her start to peak again. Then, he backed off slightly to cool her down just a bit. The angle of attack with his feet on the ground and her ass on the seat was not perfect, but he ignored the slight discomfort and speeded his strokes again. Twice more, he brought her up then backed down. Finally, he kept right on driving, and she erupted into a massive one. As her vagina clenched around him, he came again, not a huge quantity, but seemingly rung from his guts. When he came down, she was nearly unconscious, and both were dripping with sweat. He grabbed some more tissue, wiped himself off as he withdrew, and put some over her opening to catch the effluent. He found her panties, and pulled them up her legs. He had to lift her butt himself to get them up around her hips, holding the tissues in place. He put her shoes on the floor, turned her around in the seat, and reclined the seatback. Pulling up his pants, he got the emergency blanket from the trunk, and put it over her, leaving off her slacks. He closed her door, got into the driver's seat, gave her a gentle, unreturned kiss, then headed back toward home. They were nearly home before she made a single sound. He was weary, but all the events of the evening kept playing over and over in his mind. To his amazement, he was hard again. "Honey, where are my pants and shoes?" she murmured sleepily. "They're right her, but you don't need them." "Oh, OK," almost inaudibly, and she was asleep again. She stirred again when he pulled into their garage, but he told her not to move until he came back. She was not conscious enough to disagree. He went into the house and down to the apartment. He found Terry watching TV and told him they were home and to go to bed. In the master suite, he started filling the jacuzzi tub, then went back to the garage. There, he lifted her gently from the front seat and carried her to the bath. Holding her tightly to his shoulder with one arm, he set her feet on the floor and skinned down her panties with the other hand. Trying to decide how to get her pullover blouse and bra off, he shrugged, picked her up again, and was about to set her in the nearly full tub. "I've got to pee!" she said as she started to wake up. He carried her to the toilet and set her down, and she raised her arms to let the blouse off. When she was done, he picked her up again and set her in the tub. Making sure she was awake enough not to slide under the water, he went to the kitchen and quickly assembled a tray with crackers, cheese, grapes, chocolates, glasses, and bubbly. Back in the bathroom, he set the tray on the wide ledge by the tub, undressed, and climbed in with her. Pouring a glass, he lifted it to her and she drank almost unconsciously. He found her soap and began washing her with his bare hands. "Oooh! Exposed, ravaged, and pampered all in one night! What more could a girl possibly ask for?" He leaned over and kissed her lightly then popped a grape in her mouth. Warming to the occasion and starting to awaken, she put some cheese on a cracker and put it in his mouth. He turned on the jets and they spent a leisurely time feeding each other. When the food was gone, she turned and leaned her back up against him. Together, they sipped their wine. "Let's finish washing, shall we?" he finally said. "OK!" she said coquettishly, and stuck one spectacular leg straight up in the air. He slowly and sensuously rubbed the soap from her toes down to her thigh at the water line. She raised the other leg and he repeated the process. She got up on her knees and he did her face, arms, and torso, ending with very careful attention to her crotch. As he finished, she dove into his arms, pressed her slippery body against him and kissed him long and hard. "My turn!" she said pulling back. Her cleansing job was just as sensuous. Fortunately, his penis was extended for easy cleaning. When the water started to cool, and they started to shrivel, they reluctantly climbed from the tub and grabbed the giant towels stacked on the ledge. They dried off, turned out the lights, and climbed into bed. Lying face to face, naked, they held hands and kissed softly. "Do you have any idea how much I love you?" he asked with a catch in his voice. "Oh, I do, I really do!" She wrapped her arm around his neck, pressed against him and kissed him fiercely. He returned the kiss for a long time, then left her lips and moved his kisses down her neck and across her chest. He laved and nibbled both her nipples for several minutes, causing her to squirm and her breathing to shorten. He left he nipples and his tongue moved down across her belly. "Jim, you don't have to!" "Don't have to. Get to!" His reply was barely audible between the descending kisses. "Then turn around so I can do you, too." "Nope. Only one shot left and I want to save it." He reached her center and began gently stroking with his tongue. As her squirming increased and she began to moan softly, he inserted two fingers in her vagina. He moved them in and out several times until they felt very wet. He withdrew them and traced the wetness down over her anus. He reinserted the fingers, then used his thumb to first circle, then press into her back door. Her moaning and squirming increased rapidly, now. He went straight for her clit, sucked it hard and begin flailing it rapidly with his tongue. In less than half a minute she exploded, nearly cracking his skull with her thighs in her convulsions. Just as she started to taper off, he moved up in the bed, rolled her onto her right side, lifted her left leg, and entered her from behind. He put his hand over her mound and rubbed firmly, wanting to prolong the delicious contractions massaging his cock. She was whimpering constantly now. She pulled her left foot up to her ass, raising her knee straight up, and arched her torso forward. She reached both hands between her legs, pushed his hand off of her, cupped his balls in both hands, and began rhythmically but gently pulling him into her by his balls. "Come, Jim, come, come, come, come... she chanted in rhythm as she pulled and he synchronized his thrusts. Of all the thousands of times they'd made love, nothing had ever been so intense. He desperately wanted to come, but yet he didn't want the incredible sensations to stop. As he kept thrusting, his whole being became reduced to nothing but his groin. He was so lost in the sensations, it barely registered when she came yet again, but the contractions pushed him over and he exploded, then literally fainted. When he could finally feel anything but his crotch again, she was snuggled against him with him spooned behind her. She held his left arm across her breast. "Gotta shower. Stink." He was barely able to mumble out. "Don't move," she ordered. "Mess on sheets. Clean up," he mumbled again. "Don't care. Don't you dare let go!" With no strength left to argue, he mentally shrugged and fell immediately to sleep. Her breathing soon harmonized with his. - <end of zipped file 'PP2.TXT'> - <zipped file 'PP3.TXT'> Pygmalion Project (3/13) Week 2 (MF) Week 2: Late May ------------------------ Sunday The next night, Sunday, Julia came over for supper again. The conversation was light and relaxed as they ate. Later, it was Julia who suggested the hot tub. This time, she had brought her own suit, a green one-piece that complemented her red hair beautifully. The suit fit like skin, and showed the extra bulges she had developed, but the high hip cutouts showed off her nicely shaped legs to best advantage. She caught Greg checking her out as she walked toward the tub, and remarked, "Guess this psychiatrist is looking a little too prosperous, lately." "That's not what I was thinking, at all," he responded. "You are a sexy lady." When they got into the tub, Julia asked Shannon if she minded talking with Greg there. She said it was fine, and Julia quizzed her about the visit from her parents. "Do you feel differently toward your parents than you did before?" "Oh, definitely. I can see that what I thought was meddling was really just wanting the best for me." "Would your meeting have been different if you had been dressed?" This stopped Shannon, and she thought for some time. "I probably would have reacted just as I have for years." "Then, your being naked has already had a big effect on one key relationship." "I guess you are right." "Do you think it will have the same effect on other relationships?" "Ohhh...I see what you mean. Greg thinks I should let my kids and my brother and sister come here and see me." I just can't do that, especially with Ted and with Terry." "Does that mean you think you can with Laura and with Janie?" "Well, since they are women, it shouldn't be quite as hard. I still don't think I will ever be able to, though." "If those relationships are bad, and need to be completely changed, it may be the only way. Well, your parents, Yvonne, and myself have been here and seen you naked. What about Alex, the trainer?" "I am really worried about that! He is coming Tuesday morning, and I just don't know how I will be able to stand it. It will be so embarrassing." "Well, Greg and your father have both seen you, and they are men. I know Alex is a stranger, but it shouldn't be that much worse." "Yeah, but both of them are so kind and concerned about me, and they were naked, too." Julia looked over at Greg. "Oh, I didn't know you had stripped down. Didn't that violate part of your contract?" Shannon jumped in and explained how it had happened, and Greg told her how he felt it was a show of respect and support for Caroline. She mulled this over, then nodded. "I have not met Alex, but I talked to him on the phone at some length. I can tell you he is as nervous about this as you are." "I doubt that. I don't think I will sleep until Tuesday." "He initially said he could not do it if you were naked. It would be too embarrassing for both of you. What finally convinced him to help was your courage and determination going through with this. Believe me, he will go out of his way to avoid embarrassing you." "Just by showing up, he will embarrass me beyond what I think I can stand. I suppose he will be just gorgeous. Both you and Yvonne are so beautiful. It makes me feel even more like a fat slob!" Greg was about to agree that Alex was a very good-looking man, but decided to let it pass. "Say, what do you think of Yvonne?" "I like her. She is easy to talk to, and seems to really know her nutrition. She seems very concerned that Greg is some kind of pervert who has me in slavery, though." Chuckling, Julia responded, "Yes, she called me to find out why. I think she feels better about it, now." With that, the conversation faded. Eventually, Julia dressed and left. Monday The next morning, they went through the measurement and picture session again. She seemed surprised to see she had already lost over four pounds. He explained that the early losses might indeed be larger, but that pace could not be kept up through the whole plan. Nevertheless, he could tell it gave her confidence a welcome boost. When Yvonne arrived, she actually greeted him with a smile. He had to admit to himself that her smiled reached right to his core, leaving him momentarily speechless. He knew she must have seen his reaction, but he could not read her expression. The three of them chatted for a while, then Yvonne went about setting up for the next week. The supplements had just arrived that day, so she checked to see that they were all there. She reviewed with Shannon how to take the several different caplets and liquids she had prescribed. When the session was finished, he invited her to stay for dinner, and even suggested making dinner a regular part of her visit. "This would give you a chance to try the meals you have set up, and to see how well we have prepared them," he joked. "I'll bet Monday night will become the tastiest meal of the week!" They all chuckled at that, and, to his surprise, she agreed to stay and to make it a regular event. "How can I pass up a chance to have someone else cook for me? When you live alone, it is awfully tempting to take the easy way too often, even when I know how important correct eating is." He was about to ask if she didn't have a roommate, but had a feeling he should go very slowly on anything of a personal nature. Instead, he expressed his happiness that she would be joining them, and set about the preparation, since it was his turn. After dinner, she asked for a tour of the house, and Shannon eagerly volunteered to be the guide. Yvonne seemed to be genuinely interested, and had a lot of questions. When asked about Greg's employment or financial status, Shannon politely demurred, suggesting it would be better to ask him directly. The tour completed, Yvonne said her goodbyes and left. This time she shook his hand warmly at the door, the touch sending a shiver up his spine. Tuesday When he got up at 6 Tuesday morning, he was surprised to see Shannon already in the kitchen. She looked tired and tense, and he guessed she had slept little. "I wanted to smoke my very last cigarette," she said, "but it's too damned cold out this early." Obviously, he had allowed no smoking in the house. "I didn't even take my swim because you told me to hold all exercise until he got here." "I'm sorry you are having such a hard time with this. I don't know what to do to make it easier. Just remember, once you get past this, it will get easier. Are you going to make it?" "After the shock of my parents, I thought I could handle everything, but now..." Not knowing what more he could say to help, he went for his run, showered and joined her for their breakfast. By then it was 7:30, and Alex was due at 8. He suggested she check her email and maybe send a few to pass the time. At last the doorbell rang. She was literally shaking, and in danger of hyper-ventilating as he led her to the study and closed the door. Alex did not look any better when Greg let him in. "Man, you are going to owe me big time for this gig! I think I am more nervous than if I was the naked one! I like to think I'm a professional. I work with all kinds of bodies all the time, but this is just weird. How is she handling it?" How very much like Alex, Greg thought. "She is nearly falling apart. This is a very critical point in this whole plan. Come on, let's not keep her waiting. She is in the study." As they entered the study, she looked up from her seated position with absolutely the most pathetic expression Greg had ever seen. He could not help but be impressed by the raw determination it must have taken for her to stay there. When he did the introductions, neither moved toward the other to shake hands. After a short but awkward pause, Alex broke the ice. Greg noticed he was staring determinedly at her face, avoiding looking at her body. "Shannon, I am very happy to meet you. You are an incredibly brave woman, and I am honored to be able to work with you." "H..h..hello, Alex. I..I'm not b...brave at all. S..s..scared to death." "Greg, let me go and get set up, and you and Shannon join me when you're ready." Another brilliant move on Alex' part, Greg thought. "Greg, I can't do this! Please, just take me home! I give up!" "Why now, Shannon, when you've come so far?" "God, he's such a hunk! I just can't stand to let him see me. Please! Send him away and get my clothes. I'm sorry, but I just can't do it." "No, I'm not going to let you quit that easily! Alex is a good person. He is not going to look at you and think about how bad you look. He is going to think about how brave you are. Don't disappoint him and let him think you are a coward. Show him he was right about you. Do you care what he thinks about you?" "Why would he think about me at all? Don't you see? He looks like a movie star! Better, even! I'm just so ashamed!" "Shannon, that's why you're here. You don't want to be ashamed any more, do you? Alex can help better than any other person I know. Tell you what! Let's give you a goal. Let's see how long it will take you to look good enough to give Alex a hard-on when he sees you." She gasped, turned beet red, stared at him in shock for a moment, then giggled softly. "I don't think I will ever look that good. He must have women all over him all the time. Why would he ever notice me?" "Character! Courage! Determination! He will notice that, because that's the kind of person he is. Now, let's go show him!" This was it! The last make or break point, at least for a while. Taking a chance, he grabbed her hand and almost dragged her to her feet, leading her toward the door. She followed meekly behind him all the way to the kitchen. There, he pulled her in front of him, putting his hand on her elbow and giving a gentle pressure. At first, she balked, but then she squared her shoulders and headed for the exercise room. He mentally breathed a huge sigh of relief. At the door, she paused and spoke. "Alex, I really am pleased to meet you. I'm sorry I was so frightened earlier. It is hard to be naked in front of a man. I hate how I look - this is not really me. Can you help me look like myself again?" "It will be a privilege. With your kind of courage, I know we will get you there. Let's get started. You will be on a six-day-a-week workout program. On alternate days you will do a different group of exercises. This keeps you from working the same muscles every day. Your muscles actually grow the day after you work them. What day do you want for your off day?" She chose Monday, because of the time taken for the weigh-in and Yvonne's visit. "Our first concern is to start you on the correct weights and repetitions. We want to be careful to avoid any strain, as that will set you back quite a while. For about the first two weeks, it will seem that the exercises are too easy. We have to get the muscles used to working." They worked through each of the machines in the room, finding the best starting weight for her. He made up a chart of the sequence of workouts for each day as they went along. There was a difficult time when they came to the adductor/abductor machine. Opening/closing her legs against the weight would completely expose her pussy, and she at first could not bring herself to do it. She looked pleadingly at Greg for a moment, then the now-familiar determined look took over her face, and she went ahead. Her eyes were closed and her face was flaming, but she did it. None of the other machines caused as much trauma. When her chart for the week was finished, Alex set up his massage table and laid out a bottle of oil and some towels. Shannon was really reluctant to get on the table, but when he told her this was the reward part, she climbed on. She was visibly tense, and recoiled slightly when his hands first touched her shoulders. He ignored her reaction, and proceeded with the massage. He gave pointers to Greg as he went along. After completing her neck, shoulders, arms, back, and the backs of her legs, he paused and spoke to her. "Shannon, Greg has instructed me to give you a full body massage. That means I have yet to do your buttocks and then the fronts of your legs, hips, and shoulders. Can you handle my working on those places." By this time, she was really relaxed - almost sleeping. She told him it felt so good he could rub wherever he wanted. When the massage was all done, she went to take a shower. Alex packed up his gear and took it to the car. When he came back in, Greg offered him coffee or a soda, and they talked a bit. "I am amazed she can do this. How can a woman with so much determination have gotten into the trouble she has?" "It's probably more complex, but the simple answer is drugs. They seem to sap everything else from your personality. Fortunately, she has been able to dredge up the courage that was always there. She has surprised me many times already with how much she wants this to work. As of right now, I think we are going to make it." "You know, I think when we get farther along, she may be quite a beauty. That would make this job a lot of fun." "Oh, definitely. Before she went bad, she was blossoming into a real looker. That will be my bonus for all my work on this plan." "I still don't understand just why you are going through this, and what you will get out of it. Although, after today, I am glad you are because I think she is worth it. Are you sure there's not a romantic reason here?" "No, there really isn't. I love Shannon in a way, but more as a long-lost sister. I am definitely not 'in love' with her. Her success is important to me for a sense of completeness and compensation for bad things in the past. You know what my home life was like, and I've told you about the Randolphs and how much they helped me grow up whole. If I can give them back their daughter, I will have made a small payment on the debt I owe them." "Well, whatever drives you, I am honestly glad you asked me to help. This is still way strange, but I rather like her, and I want her to succeed. It is such a change from some of the over-indulged women I usually get as clients. Do you know I get propositioned at least once a week, and I don't do all that many massages?" "Don't you ever say yes? And are you still completely unattached?" "No and yes. Maybe I am wired strangely, but I just don't find these women sexy. Besides my professional ethics, I don't see the point in bedding someone I don't consider a whole individual. A lot of my friends wonder if I'm gay, but that's not it. I just want a woman who can be my partner in all ways, not just physically. Maybe I'm getting old enough to look desperate, but Ms. Right just hasn't come along, yet." "Well, far be it from me to offer advice or counsel. My history with women could be turned into a 'How Not To...' guide." "Aw, you're being too hard on yourself. Jenna was just a fool. You didn't do anything wrong but try to build a secure future." "But I missed that weakness in her. I wasn't careful enough to look for a 'whole' person like you are doing. Now, I'm kind of in the same place you are. I can't settle for another Jenna, although I can't say I've even been looking much. Mostly just licking my wounds." "Well, I'm always looking. I've probably just set my sites way too high for any real woman to qualify. Boy, aren't we a pair of sad sacks, though! Guess I'd better get going." At that moment, Shannon came into the kitchen, naked, of course, but with a towel wrapped around her head. The look was slightly humorous, rather than sexy, but she showed no shame or embarrassment. "Alex, I didn't want you to leave without thanking you. You made a terrible situation much easier. The massage was divine, and I can't wait until the exercises start changing me. I can honestly say I look forward to next week." They said their goodbyes, and Alex left. When he was gone, Shannon confronted Greg with, "Hey, when I said to Julia that he would probably be gorgeous, why didn't you tell me I was right?" At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Alex looked like he could still do the pentathlon. His near-perfect physique was complemented by a ruggedly handsome face and Nordic coloring. Ever since they had been friends, one of Alex' biggest problems was staving off the advances of females of all ages. "What good would that have done? Would it have made it easier for you?" "No, I guess not. I didn't see a ring. If he's single, he must have any woman he wants." "You're right. He can have any woman he wants, but he has not found the one he wants. He refuses to bed or even date women just because he can. He has incredibly high standards, and they include a lot more than just looks." "Wow! Someday, some luck woman will get herself a real prize. You know, at times like this I realize just how badly I've screwed up. If I'd just listened to my parents, I might have had a chance at a guy like Alex. Or you. Now, when I'm supposedly in my prime, I've got two illegitimate kids and no prospects for romance." "Shannon! That's the past. We can't redial and try it again, much as we'd like to. Let's just get you where you should be and see what happens. There are other Alexes out there, and one is for you." "I need to ask you something more mundane, here. Alex has given me some pointers on giving massages so I can do it for you during the week. The question is, do you want me to? Maybe it will make you too uncomfortable touching you that much. If you want me to, I need to go get a table and some oil. What do you think?" "I think it felt absolutely marvelous. Do you know, I've never had a massage before? I'm sure I will get some tight muscles from the workouts and it will really help. I would like for you to do it. The question is, are you willing? Do you really want to rub all that fat? Or is it too intimate for you?" "I don't have a problem. If it helps you feel better about the plan, I am all for it. I'll go pick up the table later today." ***** After Alex's first visit, life settled into a routine, as much as anything in that crazy setup could be called routine. They had chosen a GED program, and she spent most of her morning hours working on assignments. Even the modest weights Alex had assigned left her totally exhausted for the first several workouts. She was more than happy to have Greg's amateur efforts at massage. The first week she had no choice but to take a nap after the workout, massage, and shower. He continued to stay around the house most of the time, just to be available for her. Saturday Her parents visited again for dinner Saturday, having agreed to make that a standing time. Before they came, Shannon was again extremely nervous. This surprised him and he asked her why. "I know last week changed a lot of things. I know they love me and want the best for me. But there are a lot of years of history, of my fighting against everything they tried to do for me. When I am naked in front of them, it makes me feel like I am a little child again." "Uh huh. Re-birthing is working." "Well, it's still humiliating." "Why don't you be in the kitchen fixing dinner when they arrive, instead of the study. Would that help you relax?" "Yeah, that would be better." When they arrived, he let them in and told them Shannon was in the kitchen. Jim said they had to use the bathroom, so Greg went to the kitchen to help Shannon while they waited. When Caroline greeted Shannon from the doorway, both Shannon and Greg turned and stopped dead when they saw them naked again. "Oh, Mom and Dad, you don't have to do this naked any more. I can take it, now." Caroline responded, "I am going to be naked when I am with you here until you are finished. We don't want you to feel like a subject when we are around. We want to be partners with you, giving you all the support we can." Tears instantly flowed down Shannon's cheeks. She rushed to her parents, threw an arm around each of their necks, put her head on Jim's shoulder, and hugged them fiercely as she broke into full sobs. Caroline returned her hug enthusiastically and cooed gently in her ear. Jim looked frozen and his face was flushed. His hands were half raised, but he seemed uncertain what to do with them. Greg could understand his dilemma, as Shannon had her full body pressed tightly against them both, skin to skin. As Shannon continued to sob, he seemed to reach a decision, relaxed, placed his face next to hers, kissed her softly on her cheek, and began to gently stroke her back. They all hugged for several minutes. Caroline joined the crying, and Jim, too, had moist eyes. Greg quietly moved past them to his room. He stripped and brought a box of tissues back with him. As he re-entered they were just pulling apart, all sniffling, and he offered them the tissues. Shannon blew loudly, then seemed to realize just what she had done. "Oh, Daddy, I am so sorry! I shouldn't have hugged you naked like this. I'm sorry to push all this fat up against you." Jim stared at his daughter. Yes, he had been terribly embarrassed. Not because of the fat, but the naked skin. Hugging his naked adult daughter was just not right! As he was about to wave off her apology, he saw the look in her eyes and it chilled him to the bone. She was just waiting for rejection - expecting it. She had needed that hug she started! She needed a hug now from just him, a serious hug. But he couldn't. It was so wrong! Indecision. Caroline stripped in front of Greg last week. She thought that was wrong but she did it for Shannon. Look what came out of it! Did he have less courage than his wonderful wife? He was sure it's what Shannon was desperate for. His parental instinct told him so. His moral code told him it was all wrong. She would feel his penis! What if he got hard? He could never deal with that. He had felt at least the usual lust for his beautiful daughter as she matured, and successfully stifled it. Could he release it now? Could he hug her like he would Caroline? Wimp! He had to, for her! God forgive him! As Greg and Caroline watched with increasing shock, Jim took Shannon's hand and pulled her to him. He wrapped one arm around her shoulders, placed the other firmly on an ass cheek, and pulled her tightly to him, crotch to crotch and tits to chest. "Two week ago, I got angry with Greg at the idea of you being here with him naked. When he said I was to see you naked, I was appalled and absolutely refused. Last week when your mother pled with me to undress to keep you from quitting the plan, I was almost physically ill. Now, in just a week, I feel completely different. I have wanted to be close to you for so many years, and have not been able to. Now I am as close as I can possible be and it makes me unbelievable happy. Fathers are not supposed to have sexual contact with their daughters, but I can't believe the way I am showing you my love right now will send us to hell. As for the fat - that's not what I am hugging. It's my long-lost baby girl. She's beautiful and wonderful, and always will be in by eyes." Shannon raised her face and stared into his eyes. She moved her arms from around his back, stretched up to put them around his neck, and gave him a long, firm kiss, right on the mouth. "It's been so long since I have been held! I've never been held with such love. It feels so marvelous I don't ever want to let go. It can't be wrong, can it, Daddy." She put her face back on his chest, still hugging him around the neck. He found himself caressing her with both hands, completely ignoring the sexual impropriety. Caroline had sagged into a chair, her sniffles increasing and tears streaming down her cheeks. Greg found himself coming out of his shock. "Maybe I should arrange to be out Saturday evenings when you are here so you can have some time just as a family." "Absolutely not," from Caroline, "We want to be with Shannon in exactly the situation she is in. We can best support her that way." Shannon could not believe the sensations coursing through her. Adam was never much into cuddling or long loving hugs. If he felt this much bare skin against him, he would instantly want to fuck. Her Daddy was impressively strong and his body felt wonderful against her. At first, she felt bad about the loose rolls she pressed against him but his loving words soon put it out of her mind. She could feel his pubic hair against her lower belly. She purposely moved her ass to the side so his penis was right against her hip. It was so intimate her heart felt like it would burst. How could she have been so blind to how much she loved this wonderful man. As she clung to him after the kiss, it seemed as if time stopped, and it stayed stopped until she felt a stirring against her hip. Shocked at first, she thought to pull away but her euphoria would not permit it. Instead, she almost imperceptibly began to move her hip against the stirring. With a slight jerk Jim realized what was happening. "Baby, we need to break this hug, now." "No way!" "But..." "I know, Daddy, and I'm not letting go. I'm glad it's happening, so just let it." "Oh, Baby, this is not right at all. And I will be so embarrassed." "Embarrassed!?" Well, you wanted to support me, didn't you. I'm embarrassed practically all the time, so you will be right with me. Besides," and she giggled, "every daughter is curious about her father's equipment, and now I'm going to find out!" "Caroline!" She was initially too shocked to speak, but then, with a twinkle in her eye said, "You know, dear, if you are naked here every week, this was going to happen sooner or later. We'll get past it right now, then you won't have to worry about it any more. You're the one who started this hug, so you shouldn't be surprised." At that, Shannon stepped back and looked straight at her father's stiffening cock. "Daddy, it's absolutely beautiful! Mom is so incredibly lucky!" Jim brought his hands in front if his crotch, his face flaming with embarrassment. Shannon, though, swatted his hands away, cupped his balls with one hand, and gave his shaft a few strokes with the other hand. When it reached full hardness, she stopped stroking but held onto his balls. She just stared for a few moments, murmured "Absolutely gorgeous," gave a huge sigh, and stepped back. She walked over to her mother and pulled her mother's head between her full breasts. "I hope you're not upset with me for being so sexual with Daddy. I guess I just got carried away with the emotion." "I guess I should be, but it was so loving and beautiful it made me cry and got me all.." and she abruptly stopped. "Horny. Go ahead and say it, Mom. I'm aroused, too. I'll bet Greg can smell me across the room." Caroline looked over at Greg and saw his back as he moved toward the door. "Wait, Greg, don't leave." Without turning, he replied rather shakily "I think I should leave the family alone for a while." "Oh no you don't! I'll bet you're hard, too, aren't you. This is openness time so turn around and come back here so we can see you, too." The last two weeks had been a solid stream of new, unbelievable experiences. Greg thought he had been through everything, but this situation was way beyond any comprehension. As he watched the naked father and daughter hug, his penis had gone active. When she fondled him, he hardened in seconds. He had turned to leave the room but Caroline had caught him. He didn't know how he could possibly turn and display his erection, but it was Caroline asking him. How could he refuse? He thought of the look of determination he had seen several times recently from Shannon, and somehow turned his body around. He walked the few paces toward Caroline with his cock wagging back and forth with each step. He could feel the heat from his flushed face. He happened to glance over at Jim, who was standing frozen in the same condition he was. "Come on, guys, don't be so uptight. You both have lovely cocks, and this is all very natural. You must know that this sight makes us girls very happy." To Greg's absolute astonishment, she briefly mimicked Shannon's fondling of Jim. He almost collapsed from the sensation, and had to put his hand on Shannon's shoulder to brace himself. When she felt his touch, she put her arm around him for a brief hug, and kissed him on the cheek. Stumbling through his words, Greg suggested that they take their light supper outside and eat it in the hot tub. They all agreed. Caroline said she needed to use the bathroom for a few minutes and flashed a telling look at Jim. They headed off together. Greg told Shannon he needed a pit stop, too. He thought he saw a smirk on her face as he left, but he heard her heading down the opposite hall to her guest suite. In his room, he rushed to the bathroom and brought himself off with barely a dozen strokes. Shannon could feel moisture oozing down her thighs as she walked to her room. She was so aroused, her orgasm came almost instantly. Still feeling tension, she continued the stimulation, and after a much longer time, crashed into a really large one. She lay on the bed a few minutes to catch her breath, cleaned herself up a bit, then headed to the kitchen to help Greg with the meal. Caroline walked down the hall to the guest bathroom with Jim right behind her. She entered, waited for Jim, and closed the door behind them. She leaned over the vanity, looked back over her shoulder, and said, simply, "Now!" Needing no persuasion, Jim entered her and began stroking, much like their session in the field. He came in barely a minute, but, astonishingly, remained hard, and was able to continue his rhythm until she also came. Still panting when he pulled out, she turned and gave him a vigorous full-body kiss. After a bit of snuggling, she began searching through the medicine cabinet and drawers, and, finding what she wanted, asked, "Dear, will you help me here for a minute?" Greg got back to the kitchen first, wondering if the others had done the same thing he had. He had started assembling a tray with the necessary dishes and silverware when Shannon came in. She looked flushed, but had a half smile on her face. "Did you get relief?" she asked. "Huh? What?" He was totally embarrassed. "Well, I did. Twice. Come on, don't be so embarrassed. Your penis looks like it has had a workout. We all know how worked up everybody was. You need to loosen up and be more casual about the sex stuff. Look at Mom. She's a different person in one week. You know, I'll bet they're in the bathroom fucking right now. No, I take that back. With them it can't be just fucking, can it." Not knowing what to say, he just stared. He was not comfortable being naked alone with her. It just didn't fit his vision of how the plan would work. "Um, we're going to have to talk about all this when they're gone, Shannon." It was like she was suddenly the one in control, and he didn't know how to handle it. "Let's carry all this stuff out to the hot tub, shall we?" They got everything arranged for eating the meal in the tub. Jim and Caroline still had not appeared, so they both eased into the water. She surprised him by moving tight up against him. She took his hand and laid her head on his shoulder for a moment. "Greg, this is all so wonderful, I can hardly believe it. I can't thank you enough for getting me into this. Please don't be frightened if I get a little physical. I'm not expecting you to be my husband or my lover, or anything. You're my best friend again, just like before. It's just that I've got a lot more adult things to share, now, and you're the only one around all the time. Can you understand that?" "I'm trying to, but I...Ohhhh!" Caroline and Jim had just come out the patio door, and Greg was the one facing them. He could instantly see that her pubis was shaved bare! No wonder they had been gone a while! Shannon had been looking at Greg as he spoke when she saw his face flush. She turned quickly, saw her mother, and let out a shriek. "Mom! What! Why!" she stammered. They could tell from Caroline's walk that she was uncomfortable with the new feeling. As she approached the hot tub, she hunched her arms in front of herself, much like that very first exposure a week ago. Then, just like before, she threw back her shoulders and actually spread her stance and thrust her pelvis slightly forward. "When I said I want to support you, honey, I really meant it. If you have to be exposed like this, then I will be too. You have a long way to go and there will be times when you are discouraged and want to quit. I want you to remember that your Mom loves you and is right there with you, naked like you, pussy bare like yours. Besides, if I expect poor Greg to wave his erection around in front of me, then I should be willing to let him see everything I've got, right Greg? Greg? Greg? Are you OK?" He was definitely not OK! He was virtually catatonic, all except for his cock, which had instantly zoomed to full extension. He just stared at Caroline, specifically at her bare pussy. Finally, realizing how he was staring, he shook his head and mumbled "Sorry, I...I...this is just overwhelming." Then, in a stronger voice, "This has gotten to be a very intimate family thing, and I really think I should leave you all alone." "Absolutely not! If it weren't for you, none of this would be happening. Besides, you ARE family!" She and Jim climbed down into the tub. "You're right, this is an incredibly intimate family occasion. But we are the only family you really have, and I don't want you to miss this. I love you, Greg, just like you were my second son. Please don't feel like you are intruding." Jim had said nothing up to now. He had followed Caroline from the house with a combination bemused and stunned look on his face. Now, he spoke to Shannon. "Baby, I really apologize for what happened earlier. I should not have hugged you like that. It's not proper, but I was overcome by emotion. Then, to get aroused in front of you! That's completely against everything I've always believed and how I've tried to conduct our family life. Can you forgive me?" "No, I can't! I don't have to! There's nothing to forgive." She moved across the tub and knelt in front of him, hands on his shoulders. "That was absolutely the most perfect thing you could have done. Do you have any idea how terrible I have felt about myself all these years? How I was sure no one would ever want anything to do with this ugly, fat body. Then, you gave me that wonderful, sexy hug, like you didn't even notice all the rolls of blubber in the way. I couldn't believe it. You even loved my body! You didn't care! When you got hard, it was the most thrilling thing I'd ever felt. I could be a real woman again! I could be desired and desirable!" She parted Jim's legs and pressed herself tight against him, hugging him fiercely. "Now, I know I am going to succeed in this plan. And I have a whole new goal. I am going to get so beautiful and so sexy my wonderful, loving, hunky Daddy springs a monster boner every time he sees me! So forget apologies! You've made me happier than I can remember." "But...but...it's not right for..." "Daddy, shut up!" And she kissed him fiercely on the mouth. "Promise me you won't stop these sexy, naked hugs, and I promise you they will soon feel a whole lot better. Deal?" Jim glanced nervously over at his wife. She had laid her head over on Greg's shoulder and she wore a tear-streaked smile." "Jim, dear, right now I don't know if anything I have believed is right or wrong. Frankly, compared to getting our daughter back, the rules all seem meaningless. If it helps her succeed, then just love her. You were wise and perceptive and gave her just what she most desperately needed. Maybe this is the kind of real love families are supposed to share." Jim said nothing in reply, just returned his daughter's hug and stroked her hair. He did not know why he had done that hug. I was like a compulsion or an inspiration. There was complete silence for most of five minutes before Jim spoke. "Baby, you've been calling me Daddy tonight. You haven't done that since you were a little girl. I like it." "I am your little girl again, Daddy. Your little, naked, baby girl. I may be huge, but inside I am little and afraid, and I need my big, strong Daddy like never before. I've got to grow up all over again, and it's scary." She squeezed him even tighter, if that was possible. "So you aren't angry with me for snuggling with your man, Mom?" "I'm too thrilled to be angry with you for anything, Honey. Enjoy his loves. He's got a lot stored up he wanted to give you over the years, but couldn't. Let it all come out now. I know how wonderful it feels, and I am happy you can finally accept it and enjoy it. And if you happen to get him aroused, it's OK. I know I will get the benefit. More silence for several minutes. It was Shannon who finally pulled away and suggested they eat. Dusk was just starting to fall, and it was a very warm, windless July evening. They decided they had been in the hot water quite a while, and they should eat on the lounge chairs. As they ate, Greg finally worked up the courage to ask, "Caroline, what has happened to you? A week ago, you were almost fainting from exposing yourself to me. Now, you arrive and strip without even having to. Then, you go and shave your, umm.." "My pussy, Greg, my pussy. I'm not sure I can explain it myself. Last week, it was a move of desparation. I just knew Shannon would be stuck forever in the hole she was in if she quit on you. No embarrassment was as important as making her stick with it. I think I would have bared myself in front of every man I have ever met, just to keep her from quitting. After a bit, the determination started to wear off, and the embarrassment set in - about the time we sat down at the table, remember? Then, as we were talking about nakedness and sexual topics, the embarrassment was replaced by arousal. I was frankly afraid you would be able to smell me. Then, as the arousal built, I was ashamed to realize I hoped you would smell me. I have never in my life had these thoughts, except with Jim, of course. After we left, we had absolutely the best sex..", she stopped to wave off Jim as he started to object, "we have ever had, and we have thirty-seven years of heavenly sex." Jim was almost choking. "Sunday, I put on a robe a couple of times and went down to feed the kids. Otherwise, we were naked all day, and in bed most of it. It was absolutely incredible." "We also did a lot of talking. About whether we were wrong to stress modesty in the family so much. Were our kids sexually repressed because of it? Laura and Ted seem to have good, loving, marriages, but are they less than they could have been if we had been more open. The hardest question was whether our modesty had fueled Shannon's curiosity, and helped to drive her into the arms of that crowd." "Oh, Mom, you can't blame yourselves for that. That's how you were brought up, and what you believed. You know, I never saw Daddy's or Teddy's penises, ever, at least not since Teddy was little. I don't think Teddy ever even saw me in my underwear. Sometimes, the curiosity almost killed me." "That's what we talked about. Wouldn't it really have been better if you kids could have satisfied some of your natural curiosity with siblings who loved you and wouldn't have hurt you or ridiculed you? Wouldn't it have helped your self-confidence to be naked sometimes in front of people who would appreciate it, but not threaten you in any way? It gave us a lot to think about between times when we were making love. " She changed subjects after a moment. "Greg, I saw how you checked me out last week. You tried to be polite about it and I didn't mind. Jim said you had probably fantasized about what I looked like naked since puberty. Tell me, is that true?" Somewhat taken aback, he was speechless for a moment. Then he thought about the openness that was occurring and just spilled it out. "Most definitely. You always represented my ideal of woman. I almost worshipped you. But, sad to admit, it did not stop me from wondering. I have to confess to more than a few jerkoffs thinking about you naked. I'm sorry. I didn't mean it to be disrespectful - I could never disrespect you. I'm afraid it's just natural and unavoidable." "You've always been respectful to me, and I'm not offended. Jim said boys always fantasize about the significant women in their lives. Do you agree with that?" "Absolutely. I even fantasized about my mother, bitch that she was." "Then, poor Ted must have been terribly frustrated, thinking about me and his sisters, and never getting to see anything. And Terry! He must be going through the same thing right now." Shannon gave a gasp at that and stared at her mother with a stricken look. "Since I am a significant woman in his life, he must phantasize about me, too. If we were wrong in our excessive modesty, the same mistakes are being repeated, aren't they." "Anyway, Greg, back to your question. Last week did change me enormously. It's like it let loose some feelings I had kept bottled up tightly. I hardly dressed the whole week. I told myself it was conditioning for when I was here. But really, it was because it gave me a thrill, a sensation I really liked. I read somewhere about nudism - that nudity and sexuality are separate things. That's a lot of nonsense. When I'm naked, I feel sexual, and, frankly, I love it. From the look on Jim's face when I met him at the door naked Monday evening, I was hooked forever. I worried about the kids catching me, and of course I had to put something on for meals. They are really good about not coming upstairs without letting us know. As I thought about it, I decided it wouldn't really be so terrible if Terry 'caught' me. I might have had a little trouble explaining why I was naked, but it would have been a good learning experience for him." Shannon interjected here. "Mom, can I ask you a favor. I agree with what you are saying, but will you not let them see you for a while. I said I couldn't do this, and it will be terribly hard. I want them to see me naked first. I've missed most of my important motherly duties and left them to you. Let me take the lead on this one issue. Maybe it can be a start at rebuilding some trust and authority." "Sure, honey." With a stage sigh, "That means I'll have to start getting dressed around the house, but I guess it's for a good cause." They both giggled at this. "When are you going to have them come up?" "I'd like to say when I look a lot better, but that will take a while. Besides, I guess I need to be open with them about what a mess I am now. When I bare my ugly self, they'll have to believe I mean to get to be a real Mom for them." She sighed, gave a visible shudder and said, "I guess I'd better get it over with. Can you come up early next Saturday and bring them along. We need to work out a plan to leave them with me one at a time for about an hour each, with the rest of you gone somewhere else." To everyone's surprise, Caroline objected. "No, that won't work. If the kids come along on Saturday, we will have to give up our naked time. I don't want that, and I'll bet you don't want to give up your hugs, either, Honey." Everyone agreed on that point, and they mulled over several other possible ideas. Since practices were not a problem in the summer, they decided to use weekdays. Caroline would drive halfway and meet Greg. Forty-five minutes for each would not be a burden. They spent some time discussing the logistics, and finally worked out a graceful way for first Janie, then Terry, to have their first encounter with their naked mother. Janie would come up Wednesday afternoon and stay overnight. They would meet again Thursday morning and Terry would spend the day. Shannon thought his being there for her workouts would ease things a bit, and he might be interested in what she was doing for her GED. After finishing the meal, Greg needed to cool off in the pool, and asked Jim if he would like to join him. Once in the water, Greg asked, "When did I lose complete control of this situation? When did the women take over? I feel like I'm just along for the ride." "When the focus is on sex, women rule. That's Univeral Truth #1. Much as we think about sex, to them, it is their lives. They are totally built around it. The wisest and most rewarding thing a man can do is find ways to release a woman's sexual drive and make her feel good about it. Our society has made it seem so wrong, it is hard for them to let go without feeling guilty. I am so lucky Caroline has always let go around me. We have always kept a very protective wall around our wonderful sex life. Now, the wall seems to have fallen, and the boundaries are expanding. I choose to think of it as a good thing. Since she is in charge, I can't do a thing about it anyway, so I'm damn well going to enjoy the ride." "Are you upset that I see her naked. And that she saw, and even fondled, my hardon?" "That hit me hard at first. But, no, I'm not uspset. Partly because it's you, but mainly because I am totally confident that I have her heart. Maybe I'm an old pervert, but I was actually busting with pride when you were struck speechless by her bare pussy. I am immensely proud of everything about her, and I choose to take pride in her expanding sexuality, too. I am not at all concerned about her ever making love to another man. With that confidence, I can handle however she chooses to express love to those she cares about. Besides, what can I say after what I did with Shannon. Caroline reacted in the same confident, proud way I feel about her." Greg felt he had just been handed a massive dose of the wisdom of the ages. How could he have lived through this much and not realized these things. Or, did he know them instinctively and just never spent any time thinking about them? They all got in the hot tub again, and Shannon pulled both parents around close to her and snuggled between them. She started sniffling, then crying softly. Jim asked her what was wrong. "I am just thinking what an incredible fool I have been. I have had almost no affection for such a long time. Here you guys had all this love you wanted to give me, and I wouldn't even let you close. I just went without. I'm just realizing how much I've missed." She pulled Caroline up onto her lap, pushed her face between Caroline's breasts and hugged her tight. As they hugged, they rocked gently back and forth, both now pouring out tears. Jim turned sideways and wrapped his arms around both his women. Greg just watched, feeling he should leave, but so transfixed by the palpable love he couldn't move. When the Randolphs had left, Greg and Shannon went about cleaning up from dinner, and generally straightening up. When the house was again orderly, they both ended up in the kitchen. "Uh...Greg. You're still naked." "Yeah, I thought about getting dressed right away when they left, but it almost seemed a sacrilege after tonight. Is this OK?" "I said before, why can't you just stay naked. You're the one who made up that stupid rule." They sipped quietly for a while. "Greg, can you stand to hug fat?" Why did she ask him that, she berated herself? Of course he can't! He'll be really turned off. Mom and Daddy did it, but that's different. They really love her and will do anything for her. She would just tell him to forget she had asked. This was a whole new challenge for him. He was supposed to be the teacher, the boss, the slavemaster. The only physical intimacy they had shared so far was a few massages. This might change their relationship - damage the plan. But what about her? She seemed to crave the contact. What would happen if he said no? "Well...I...maybe it's not such a good idea for...Oh, Hell! Come here!" He was leaning back against the counter. He held out his arms and she came into them, wrapping hers tightly around his back. She leaned her chest into him and laid her cheek on his shoulder, holding her crotch slightly away from him. She couldn't believe it! 'He didn't mind! Or maybe he's just doing for her and he hates it. That's OK. It was wonderful that he would even do that for her. She had her boobs pressed right against him - can't help that in a hug. Better stay away from his penis, though, or he might freak and push her away. She couldn't take that. It was so lovely to feel Daddy's and make it hard. He was so upset, but she was so happy. It would be so great to make Greg hard, but that's too much to hope for. Maybe he couldn't even get hard against all this blubber.' Greg thought of her earlier hug with Jim, how openly sexual it was, and how it thrilled Shannon, and seemed to change her instantly. Jim had started it, hadn't he? How courageous was that! How did he know to do that? Did he dare try the same thing? Did he want to? What if he got hard? How embarrassing would that be? Actually, a whole evening of stimulation made getting hard by any means sound really good. If she wants it and he wants it, why not make it good? He took hold of both ass cheeks, spread his legs a bit, and pulled her gently but firmly up against his groin. "You meant a full-body hug, didn't you?" he asked. She was over the moon. He had grabbed her butt! He had stuck his penis right into her belly. He was a bit taller than her Dad and it rested above her mound. Maybe he really wanted this. "I'll take any kind, but this is wonderful. After having none for so long, I'm afraid I'm becoming a different kind of addict. Do you mind?" "I wouldn't have called you over here if I minded. I like it too. I am getting a little concerned about what is going to happen between us, though. I had no way to anticipate what happened tonight, and I don't know if there is a 'right' way to handle it. I want to give you a completely fresh start, without any anchors from your old life. It would not be good if we got sexually involved. I don't see us as life partners. I hope it is not harsh to say that." He was really in a struggle. The warm skin against his penis was arousing, but nervousness about embarrassing himself dampened the arousal. He couldn't just let go and enjoy it. Or could he? Why did he start this if he wasn't going to let her have her fun? She wanted him hard. He knew it without a doubt. "I told you before I didn't expect you to be my lover or my husband. But you are my very best friend again and I do love you. It just feels so good to be held. To be close. To feel bare skin against each other all over. To feel aroused and safe and happy about it. To feel your...Ohhh! To feel you complementing me like that." Oh, coool! It was growing! It had lengthened downward so the head was at the top of her slit. She was feeling a surge of power. "Thank you for understanding about the complement. And thank you for not expecting more from the relationship. I love you, too, and I am so thrilled to see the Shannon of my childhood starting to emerge. I think we should talk all this over with Julia tomorrow night. But for now...." As they held the hug, she began rocking gently. The complement grew. It started to press farther down along her slit. It felt great, but she wanted it to feel all of it so she pulled her ass back to let it stand up against her belly. Oh, that was wonderful. She could feel his whole shaft, and even his balls nestled into the fat of her belly. She guessed it probably felt good to him, too. He tried not to think about the feeling of being embedded into that warm, yielding flesh. He was concerned with his level of arousal, but he did not want to push her away. He wanted her to be the one to break the hug. He just knew that was important to her. She seemed content to stay there all night, as she slowly increased her rocking motions. Her hard nipples were moving slightly against his chest, now. The feeling was more intimate than anything he had felt since well before the divorce. It was as if a large, soft hand were rolling his cock and balls back and forth. It felt...Ohmigod! Getting hard was one thing, but he couldn't come! That would be the ultimate embarrassment! She would be so grossed out. He grabbed her shoulders to push her back, but she anticipated and squeezed him even tighter. "Shannon, I...." "Don't you dare push me away. Relax and let it happen, please!" "But..." "Please, please," in a small, pleading voice. He was enormously embarrassed, and his arousal fell back from the edge a bit because of it. Then he remembered, this was for her. She could not stand to be rejected now. He relaxed and began stroking her back and her ass as she increased her rocking motion. He built up again quickly, got nervous again, then decided to just go with it. As he passed no return, he grabbed both cheeks, hoping he didn't hurt her, and pulled her even more tightly into him. When it hit, the strength of his eruptions shook them both. She moaned as the warmth squirted up between them and began trickling down. He sagged against the counter, afraid he might collapse on the floor, but somehow staying upright. When his shudders finally stopped, she looked up at him with an absolutely beatific smile and said "Thank you." "You're thanking me!?" I just had the come of my life all over you, and you're thanking me?" "Yes, yes, yes. Thank you for not rejecting all my fat. Thank you for not being too embarrassed to let me make you feel good. Thank you for letting me think this ugly body can somehow be pleasing to someone. Thank you for letting me be so intimate. You know, all the sex I had with Adam never made me feel this close. Thank you, Greg. It was wonderful for me." He just stared down at her with a blank look. Now he was sure he had no clue about women, sex, love, and self-image. He was just glad he somehow knew it was important to let her take the lead. And he was glad he was able to stuff his embarrassment. She put her head back on his chest and they held the hug a while longer as he gradually softened. Finally, she straightened up and pulled back. She cupped his balls lightly and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. Saying nothing more, she walked off to her room. As much as possible at her weight, she had a saucy swing to her bare ass as she left. Jim and Caroline made it home without a stop that night. The sex when they got home was less feverish than last week, but no less intense. It took hours to take the edge off Jim's fascination with her newly bare pussy. - <end of zipped file 'PP3.TXT'> <1st attachment end> ----- ASSM Moderation System Notice------ Notice: This post has been modified from its original format. The post was sent as an email attachment and has been converted by ASSTR ASSM moderation software. ----- ASSM Moderation System Notice------ -- Pursuant to the Berne Convention, this work is copyright with all rights reserved by its author unless explicitly indicated. +---------------------------------------------------------------------------+ | alt.sex.stories.moderated ----- send stories to: <ckought69@hotmail.com> | | FAQ: <http://assm.asstr-mirror.org/faq.html> Moderator: <story-ckought69@hotmail.com> | +---------------------------------------------------------------------------+ |Discuss this story and others in alt.sex.stories.d, look for subject {ASSD}| |Archive at <http://assm.asstr-mirror.org> Hosted by <http://www.asstr-mirror.org> | +---------------------------------------------------------------------------+