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Or at least she was, before finding an ancient necklace in a Chinese puzzle box. Now her build, gender, gender identity and preference in sexual partners are randomly being changed by the curse that was on the necklace!\n\nKaren and her new lover, Mia, come out of the closet as a dating lesbian couple. They tell their family they are dating now.And Karen also makes a big decision, when she asks Mia's brother, Karl, if he will be the guy to take her virginity!", "description_bbcode_parsed": "Karen Bright is a petite and attractive, 18 year old Timberwolf girl. Or at least she was, before finding an ancient necklace in a Chinese puzzle box. Now her build, gender, gender identity and preference in sexual partners are randomly being changed by the curse that was on the necklace!

Karen and her new lover, Mia, come out of the closet as a dating lesbian couple. They tell their family they are dating now.And Karen also makes a big decision, when she asks Mia's brother, Karl, if he will be the guy to take her virginity!", "writing": "Die Role, by SpectralWolf, July 2022\n\n“She was an ordinary person... until she die'd.''\n\nChapter 8 - We're Coming Out...\n\nIt was a little after 2 PM on Tuesday, July 22nd when Karen Bright let her new girlfriend, Mia Chang, into her apartment. As soon as the door was closed behind them, the white furred, 18 year old timberwolf girl hugged her black furred, 27 year old feline lover tightly, and gave her a very passionate kiss.\n\nMia returned the kiss enthusiastically, but then giggled when Karen's tummy rumbled loudly. ``Oh my! Seems like all your appetites need satisfying! Hungry?''\n\nKaren reluctantly broke off their hug and started heating a teakettle. ``Well, yeah? Even though we just ate a late breakfast a few hours ago, I did just spend the last two hours doing magic stuff that should be impossible! That magic lesson was a lot of work! Mistress Keiko and Mister Chen have both told us that using magic can make you hungry. Funny, though. I'm not tired at all, just... hungry. If anything, I feel pretty energetic! But yes, I'm both hungry and horny! But I don't want to go out for lunch. We have too much private stuff to deal with.''\n\n``I'll phone in a delivery order to my parents' restaurant. Maybe I can sweet talk my brother Karl into bringing it up to us, so we could ask him privately about your `virginity problem'? He should be there right now, cooking for the end of the lunch rush,'' Mia replied. Once the order was placed, she said, ``Done, and Karl agreed to deliver it personally. Have any Oolong or Green tea?''\n\nKaren opened a kitchen drawer, and put a couple of teabags into the heating kettle. ``Green tea. Came with my last takeout order.'' She sat back against the kitchen counter and sighed. ``Yeah, asking him here and now would be better than trying to ask at the restaurant.''\n\n``Karen? I'm... really glad you chose me, to be your girlfriend,'' Mia said softly. She reached out and touched Karen's hand. ``It's wild to hear myself even saying that, when we've known each other for such a short time. But... There’s something about you, girl. Your openness and honesty. Your passion to achieve whatever you set your mind on. You've been so brave when faced with unexpected new experiences. And the way you keep your focus and composure, even when impossible things happen all around you. I've... never met anyone like you before. You're amazing. Even without all the incredible magic and shape changing stuff you can do, you'd be amazing.''\n\n“Awww, that's so sweet!'' Karen replied. She leaned over and kissed her new girlfriend, and said. ``You're pretty amazing yourself. You didn't freak out when my cursed necklace changed me. You stood by me and volunteered to help in any way you can, even when that meant dealing with a supernatural creature you pretty much assumed at first was some sort of fearsome mythical demon! You've been such a good friend, and you've helped me to cope with these wild, chaotic changes in my life. I'm glad I chose you, too. My head is spinning right now, though. Twelve days ago, I was just a small town high school girl, packing to move out on her own. Now I have a beautiful girlfriend, and -ulp!- I just sealed a blood pact with a supernatural being, binding me to her service for the next 80 years! And I'm starting to learn to use real magic!'' She held out her hand, palm up, and concentrated, and a two inch diameter blue sphere of fire-like light appeared over her palm. Then she turned her hand lasily, and the intangible fire rolled around her hand and wrist, then split into three spheres, which rotated against each other while flat against her palm, like she was contact juggling with three glass balls.\n\n``That's really pretty,'' Mia commented. ``It's also more than a little frightening, that you can already do stuff like that so easily. But I was watching her teach you, and I'm sure I never saw either of you doing that tricky contact juggling bit. I didn't know you could juggle at all. Did she teach you that, mind to mind?''\n\n``Ummm, no, I saw it in a movie once, last year, I think? It was that live action and puppetry film from back in the 1970's, where a rock star ruled a goblin kingdom? He did this, with up to four glass balls. Well, they made it look like he did. The extra features on the disc showed it was really a pro juggler, reaching around the actor.'' She added a fourth ball of light into the mix, on top of the other three, and added, ``I'm sure I couldn't do this with even one glass ball, without magic. But it feels like I can make these fire wisps do anything I can imagine, now.''\n\n“Ohhhh kay... But... Did you realize that your eyes are glowing with blue light right now? Like Mistress Keiko's eyes glow green when she is doing magic?'' Mia asked hesitantly. Then she sounded slightly petulant as she added, ``Oh, and I feel fine right now, so I don't think we have to worry about you draining me to do that.''\n\n“Are they? No, I wasn't aware of that!'' Karen swiftly walked over to a full-length mirror on one of her wardrobe closets and looked at her reflection. She touched her face, blinked, then held her hands down by her side. The blue fire wisps, left behind by her lack of attention, coalesced into a single sphere, and trailed along after her, like a trained bird which adored their Mistress. When she stopped moving, it hovered above her right shoulder. ``I... better learn to control that glow. If it happens every time I use magic, I could get in trouble, if anyone notices it in public.'' She cocked her head to one side, concentrated, and the glow faded from her eyes, restoring their normal ice blue appearance. The fire wisp flickered a bit as her eyes dimmed, but she glanced at it, and it stabilized, almost as if she had told it to behave itself. Then she intentionally dismissed it with a wave of her hand. ``Okay, yeah, I can suppress that glow, and still do magic. Good to know''\n\n“Well, if I start to feel weak, I`ll let you know,'' Mia said. She was somewhat concerned that her new lover hadn't even asked if it felt like her playing casually with magic was affecting Mia. But she attributed that to her excitement about learning she could do stuff like that at all. And to be fair, after that accident with the magic battery, and her first warning from Keiko, Karen had not appeared to drain power from other sources. \n\nKaren returned to Mia and hugged her gently. “Mia, I understand that you're worried, but I am trying really hard to only use my own power when I do magic. Besides, I think I'm still kind of supercharged from my magic training session. That magic battery thing I accidentally destroyed had a lot of energy in it, and I drained it dry without even realizing it. I kind of need to burn some of it off, to get back to levels my body is used to containing. You know I would never want to hurt you, or anyone near me, right? I literally just gave control of my life to Mistress Keiko - to a Kitsune I only met this week, and thought was a purely mythical creature before we met her - just to learn how to control this magic. To learn how not to hurt anyone with it!''\n\n``Yeah, I know. This is all just so confusing. Things are changing so fast... I do trust you, though,'' Mia replied. ``And now, we're going to stir the pot even more. By coming out publicly as a Lesbian couple, when all the people who are important to us believe we're both straight. Are you ready for that challenge?''\n\n``With you by my side, I think I'm ready for anything!'' Karen said. She laughed, spun Mia around as she swept her hand in a circle around them, and filled the air with red, heart-shaped fire wisps. She hugged Mia tightly and added, ``Bring it on! I'm ready to tell the world that this beautiful woman in my arms is the one who captured my heart!'' The little fire wisps burst like miniature fireworks, dissipating into a haze of glowing red glitter before shifting hues to form a faintly glowing rainbow. As her spontaneous magical light show subsided, she added less dramatically, ``That cute light show should burn off enough magic that I won't be tempted to keep playing with it. Seriously though, I certainly don't care who calls us lesbians. And I want to work with you to try to make our relationship work, ok? It probably is too soon to call it love, between us. But I do, in all seriousness, think we're heading that direction.''\n\nMia gasped at the display, and giggled when the rainbow formed, ``Girl, you are crazy! But I like your style! And I agree. It's fun to think this is true love at first sight, but the reality is, we're just starting down that path. It will take work, from both of us, to make it last. And I will be happy to face that challenge at your side, dear friend.''\n\nWhile they waited for Karl to arrive, they sat down beside each other on the futon couch, holding hands, kissing gently, and discussing their future plans, particularly how to talk to their families about their budding relationship.\n\n===\n\nWhen Karl arrived with their lunch, he initially appeared concerned, but his smile brightened considerably as soon as he realized it was Karen who had opened the door, and that Mia was beside the timberwolf girl, and was smiling. ``Oh! Hello Karen! I assume this must be your apartment? I was rather worried when Mia specifically wanted me to deliver takeout to her, at an address I didn't know. I forgot that you said your apartment was above our kitchens.''\n\n``Yep! This is my place, such as it is, please, come in!'' Karen said, as she closed the door behind Karl. ``And don't worry. Nothing is wrong. Quite the opposite, really!''\n\nKarl handed the food bag to his sister, collected her payment, and then asked, ``Okay, what's going on, you two? Mia knows I never do the deliveries. I'm too busy as a cook. I was afraid a date had gone badly, and she needed my protection.''\n\nMia set the food on the table in front of the futon, then returned and possessively curled one arm around the white furred girl's waist. Karen immediately returned the affectionate gesture. \n\n``I'm fine, I promise. I asked you to come here so you can be the first in our family to hear some good news. My dear brother, can you get the whole family together for me, before 5 pm or so? I want to talk to all of them at once.'' Mia said seriously.\n\nKarl looked back and forth between his sister to Karen, noted they both had lipstick smudges on their faces and necks, in each other's lip colors, then laughed heartily, and said, ``Let me guess. This beautiful wolf girl has swept my beloved sister off her feet, and you eloped and secretly got married? Can?t blame you if she did, sis. She's a keeper, and I thought you seemed pretty possessive of her at game night last Sunday, despite how much you both denied being `a couple' that evening.''\n\n``Are we that obvious? Not married, or even engaged, no. But she has `swept me off my feet', as you put it, and we're `intimate girlfriends in an open relationship' now.'' She paused to make sure his attention was fully on her, then quietly added, ``And... my other reason for getting you here, in a more private place where we can talk openly... she knows about and accepts my sexual relationship with you and Jung. We plan to be very `out' publicly as Partners, which should also distract our family and friends from continuing to pester me about why I never tried very hard to hook up with another boyfriend, after Kenny dumped me. No one should suspect what I do privately with you and Jung, if they believe I've come out as a lesbian, and that I'm quite happy being monogamous with Karen. And only close, trusted friends will know we actually have an open relationship.''\n\n``Yeah. I promise, I really don't care that she fucks her brothers, as long as you treat her well, and I can have her as my intimate partner, too. I won't tell anyone. I have secrets of my own that are more controversial, which I trust her with, and plan to trust both you and Jung with,'' Karen said. ``She told me all about how you and Jung became her lovers. I may have some issues with how you tricked your sister into sex in the first place, but I think it is sweet, the way you stepped forward to financially support her after her fiance dumped her. I can accept that my relationship with Mia needs to be an open one, which includes both of you. I'm... even open to joining the three of you and getting intimate myself with you, and with Jung, though Mia will be my main focus. We... asked you to come up here, so I could ask a very special favor from you. One I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy.''\n\n``More controversial than sibling incest? That should be interesting. Okay, as long as you also agree to treat our sister well, you obviously have my approval as a couple. I just want my sister to be happy. I'm pretty sure Jung won't object either, and that both of us would enjoy you joining us. Is that the favor? Turning our threesome nights into foursomes?'' Karl asked. ``Or do you want me to smooth it over with our parents, that Mia is now going to be openly lesbian? Look, the family accepts my flagrant bisexuality, so they should accept her being a lesbian.''\n\n``That?s not it, no. It's.... Well, I'm... still a virgin. I've never had sex with a guy. I found you attractive the first time I saw you. Which was before you met me, by the way, though I had no clue who you were, when I saw you the morning of game night, jogging and showing off that buff bod of yours at riverfront park. And as much as Mia and I want to be lovers, we're both bisexual. She thought I would enjoy my first experience with penetrative sex more with a real guy, rather than her popping my cherry with a strap on or a dildo.'' Karen replied, blushing fiercely.\n\n``Oh, you'll have to twist my arm really hard for that one, girl!'' The buff Rottweiler boy replied with a laugh. ``And I can't believe I can't remember seeing your pretty face in the park! Of course, I would be honored to be your first male lover, with the full understanding that Mia has already claimed you for herself, and absolutely has priority in your affections. And I will try to be gentle and make it really good for you. Can't do that right now, of course. I need to get back to work. What works well for you two? I presume Mia wants to be there for that moment?''\n\n``I think you had your attention on a cute femboy, when I saw you at the park. How about we do it at Amber's party this Saturday?'' Karen suggested. \n\nMia looked surprised, but added, ``Well, that would be the best place for all of us to safely fuck each other. Amber has already told me she wants to get sexy with Karen, once Karen chooses to get sexually active,'' Mia replied. ``And we... have another special female friend, who wants to both watch and participate, at Amber's next party. We'll be introducing her to Amber today, but we're certain Amber will love her.''\n\n``Which is why I suggested we do it at the party,'' Karen said. ``My first thought - and what Mia and I had initially discussed when we decided to get you here to ask you to be my first male lover - was for it to be just the three of us, here or at Mia's place. But... that `other girl' really would appreciate being present, too. And getting fucked by a bunch of guys and girls in one night certainly will be memorable!''\n\n``Another female lover? Is my sister assembling a harem? You're just full of surprises today,'' Karl replied. ``Well, Karen, yes, that will definitely be throwing yourself into the deep end for your deflowering. And I know Amber will think it is pretty hot, for her and her guests to witness your first time. In fact, if you feel up for a really over the top experience, we could arrange to film it as a commercial sex video. The studio Amber works for pays really well for genuine `a virgin's first time' videos. So, as long as Amber approves, why not? And you really have me curious about the other girl. Do I know her, too?''\n\n``No commercial sex videos for me, thanks. But let me think about allowing Amber to film it, so people I approve can keep personal copies, OK? And no, you haven't met our new female friend. She just moved into the area, and we only met her a few days ago,'' Karen replied. ``We actually haven't been intimate with her yet ourselves, but she clearly wants to be `friends with benefits', as soon as we are ready to let her join us. But no more about her until the party. You'll all meet her on Saturday.''\n\nMia nodded and said, ``That pretty well covers it. You can tell Jung everything we just told you,'' Mia added. ``As far as the rest of the family is concerned, let me be the one to tell them we're a couple now. I want to tell all of them at once, while Karen is with me.''\n\n``You got it, sis! If they try to get me to tell why you're getting us all together, I'll imply it might be about you going back to college. Mom and dad would certainly like it if you finished your degree,'' Karl said. He gave both girls a brotherly kiss, then said, ``I'll text you, to let you know when. Probably at 4 or so? That's when the evening shift of cooks and waitresses tends to arrive. So, the family members who are not on duty right now will be arriving, and the rest of us won't have left yet.''\n\n``Thank you. And I think I will try to finish college when Karen is ready to start college too, so we can study and attend together. But it will be a while before either of us has saved enough to cover our tuition and other expenses,'' Mia replied, as she let him out.\n\n===\n\nThe girls started to eat their lunch. ``Karen? You really surprised me just then. You explained your reasoning pretty well, but are you really sure you want to lose your virginity at a sex party? Even with several people who you don't know watching you, and maybe wanting to join in? That's a pretty big leap!''\n\n``Yeah, well, something more private and intimate would have been nice, sure. But if we can get everyone together in one spot with Keiko, and their attention is mostly on me, that should make it easier for her to do her geas thing on the ones we plan to trust, right? But I... Well, honestly, I didn't really think about how many others that I don't know might be there. You hadn't made it sound like those parties were huge orgies. Who else could we expect?'' Karen asked.\n\n``The core group consists of seven of us - Amber and her brother, myself and my two brothers, and two otters. Rachel and Rowan Riverbrook are twin brown river otters, who live with Amber and her brother, so they will always be there on party nights. They're 19 years old. Like a lot of otter girls, Rachel is slender, with A-cup boobs. Her twin, Rowan, was born male, but is gender fluid. Rowan likes dressing and acting like they're Rachel's identical twin sister. And they can pull it off remarkably well, because even as a guy, their face, figure and hair length are close to identical to Rachel's. Rowan's pronouns shift with their presentation. So, most of the time, when they're acting feminine, you should use female pronouns for her. But if they braid their long hair and stuff it under a cap, and otherwise act masculine, use male pronouns for him. If you're not sure, use they/them,'' Mia explained. ``The twins got thrown out onto the streets last year, when their parents caught them fucking each other. Amber found them begging for spare change, and gave them a safe home, Like Amber and her brother, the twins are now sex workers and porn actors.'' Mia said. \n\n``Rowan sounds... confusing. But I'll try to get it right when I talk about them,'' Karen replied. ``It's so sad when parents don't accept their own children. But you said there are others, too?''\n\n``Yes. There's Hal Wilson and his wife, Sophia. They're both red foxes, and they run the production studios which Amber and her brother do porn films for. Their actors also do TV commercials, and some sing or play in local bands. Hal is 69, and Sophia is 51. They're the oldest people I have ever seen at a sex party. They usually show up when Amber plans in advance to shoot videos of people at her party. But they can come any time. How many others show up is mostly up to Amber. Usually, on any given party night, Amber will also invite at least two to four others from among her circle of trusted, intimate friends. Most of her guests are in their late teens to late 20's. And most of them are sex workers or porn actors, though some are just people Amber likes personally, and has decided to trust. Like you, for example. So... at least a dozen people? But I've never seen it be more than 15 or so. After all, the more people she allows to attend, the more risk there is that those of us who openly engage in incest there could get publicly exposed.''\n\n``Ok. I guess I could be okay with that many people, if I know they are all folks you and Amber trust. And as I told your brother, I need to think about being on camera,'' Karen said. ``I suppose I wouldn't mind some personal videos we could share with chosen, intimate friends? Like you and your brothers made? But I don't think I'd like seeing myself on the cover of a porn film that gets sold to the public. I'd die of embarrassment if my mom found out I gave porn acting a whirl!''\n\n``Well, I would enjoy watching and being able to keep a sex video of us together. If I ever did do a new one, it would be to share that experience with you. But honestly, that's why I haven't joined them in a commercial porn film, yet. Amber offered me the opportunity to act in one, but I'd be afraid some family friend would buy my movie, and show it to my parents! Karl, on the other hand, has done six porn films with Amber and her friends. My brother doesn't care what anyone thinks about his sex life. He thinks it's a cool, macho thing for a guy to be a porn star, and he says it is fun.'' Mia replied. She thought about it for a moment, then added, ``I will admit, though, that the porn films Amber and her friends make are better than most of the junk you find in an adult shop. Their porn videos have actual characters, plot, and dialog. And her parties are not just wild orgies, either. She never charges anyone to attend, even though she could make a lot of money off of `attend an orgy with porn stars' events. They're a gathering of friends, supportive of everyone's pleasure and enjoyment. A safe place where lovers who couldn't be as open about being in love with each other as we can, have a safe space to be themselves.''\n\n``What is her home like, anyway?'' Karen asked. ``I gather her home is pretty big. Does she live in a big condo, or a large apartment like yours? Or a suburban house?''\n\n``Amber and her brother tried renting a suburban house at first, but it was too small to have friends over, their landlord was getting nosy, and there wasn't enough privacy from their neighbors, ``Mia said. ``So, two years ago, with help from the porn studio that they work for, they bought an old farmhouse, on the edge of town. It has enough land on any side that her neighbors or people driving down the road in front of her home probably don't even know when she is throwing a party, much less the kinds of things we do there. From the street, her place looks like it is just one of the many older two story, multi-family farm homes that are common in that area. I guess at one point it was the family home for a small working farm, though most of the farmland got sold to their neighbors at some point. The remaining land around on three sides is pretty densely planted with tall evergreen trees, and her two-story house and what used to be a barn hides her back yard and any cars her guests bring. In her backyard she has a big outdoor pool, and that part of the property is very private. Her sex parties start about Noon, and some of the guests may come and go at other times. Lunch, dinner, and drinks, including booze, are taken care of in various ways, but no drugs are allowed on her property. Amber's home has two extra bedrooms with Queen beds, where her guests can have more privacy, or can spend the night. So, if you get cold feet about having all of them watch Karl popping your cherry, you could choose a smaller group and do it in a bedroom. Most of the sex goes on in the great room, a big, open room adjacent to tge kitchen, with several comfy, huge couches and a decent sized wall-mounted TV, for watching porn films. Or in nice weather, the party moves outside, by the swimming pool. Needless to say, the otter twins love the pool. They even set up two water slides!''\n\n``It sounds nice. A lot better than what I expected, really,'' Karen said. ``Not sure what I had in mind, really. A run-down version of one of those crazy mansions owned by an old geezer who publishes men's nudie magazines and runs swanky `gentlemen's clubs', I guess. Like that old ferret guy who always has sexy young centerfold models from his magazines surrounding him? But what you described is nice. A lot like Amber herself, really. When I've talked with her... she just comes across as a really nice person, you know?''\n\n``She is nice, yeah. And when she offered to actually date you herself, and not just offer you her `professional services' for hire, I'm sure she sincerely meant it. She and her brother have an open relationship, just like my brothers and I do. And she considers any dating relationship to be quite separate from her profession as a sex worker.'' Mia replied, then said, ``So... A question about you and Mistress Keiko... What's it like, when she is linked to your mind? Is the link always there? Do you always hear each other? Will she always know what you are thinking about? Ummmm, does she... know every last thing you know? Even stuff you'd rather keep private?''\n\n``Well, I only have a few hours' experience to go on. But she made it clear that we're not usually going to be that closely linked, no. Most of the time, I'm pretty sure she has better things to do than eavesdrop on my mind. When our link is in a passive state, like right now, the soul bond only allows us to know if the other needs to open a deeper connection, and apparently, we can feel their emotional state if emotions get intense enough. She would know immediately if I got really frightened or angry, for example. Like, I can tell you she's calm right now, and she's thinking about me, possibly about us, but not yet trying to open a link to me. She would know the same about me, and distance doesn't seem to matter,'' Karen replied. ``Establishing a link from my end, it's sort of like making a phone call? I think about wanting her to hear me, and pretty soon I get a feeling that she can. When she wants to start a conversation that way, I feel her in my mind, and I have to think about opening the connection. Once the link is open, then we choose how much to share with each other. It could just be like spoken words, heard in our minds. Or we can let them see and hear exactly what we see and hear. Or we can share a personal memory with each other. And she can do way more. She can show me whole experiences, through our link. Like, what it should feel like to make those fire wisps, and how to control them. She can also actually guide my mind and my body, while she teaches me new things. That's... weird. I feel sort of like she is using me like a puppet, and I am both doing the task, and observing myself, but from her perspective. Either of us can end it. Of course, she can certainly force her way in, and can probably search my memories and probe way deeper than I might want her to. But so far, she seems to respect my mental privacy. I haven't tried stopping her, but as far as I can tell, she hasn't tried to know things I am not freely sharing.''\n\n``Weird. When she looked at my memories - of my brothers, Amber and her brother - she didn't really talk to my mind that deeply. I felt... kind of a pressure... when she started looking for those memories. But then I agreed to let her in, so that pressure only lasted a moment. And then nothing felt unusual. I couldn't tell she was there at all. After she commented on what she had found, and said she was done, I felt no different. Well, I guess she'll be talking in my mind too, some day. Sounds like it would be the easiest way for her to show me what to do to help you. Not sure I am looking forward to that. Although, I do kind of wish I could do that mind-link thing with you,'' Mia said. ``Well, our families can't read our minds, so we'd better get back to telling them about us being a couple. Shall we call your mom next?''\n\n``Someday, we probably will have a similar connection. I'd like that too. Well, telling my mom should be easy. She dates both guys and girls, so she won't care if I have a female lover,'' Karen replied, as she got her phone ready. ``I'll do this as a video chat. Just me at first, so I can show her my apartment. I'll let you know when to let her see you. Stay off screen until then.''\n\n``Gotcha,'' Mia replied, standing up so she could move easily, if necessary.\n\nKaren opened the video call. Her mom picked up right away. ``Hi mom! Calling to check in.''\n\n``Well! I was beginning to wonder about you, my dear! You've been there more than a week, and the last time you called was the day you got your apartment!'' Her mother chided. ``All settled in? If you're at home now, please let me see!''\n\nKaren held her phone up and panned around the room. ``No real view out my windows, though they can let in a lot of light or fresh air. One of them opens onto a fire escape balcony. I'm on the second floor, across a narrow side street from a popular nightclub. And I have a secure mini-garage for my motorbike, right across the street. The place I work is on the same block as my apartment, beside my building. Really convenient. As you see, I have some good starter furniture. The place came with those three big wardrobe closets. It's just a small studio, so I chose a futon couch for my bed.''\n\n``Better than my first apartment on my own,'' her mom confessed. ``But is that a man's clothes I see in that open wardrobe near the corner? Have you had a boyfriend move in with you already?''\n\nKaren belatedly realized some of her `Kraig' clothes were indeed visible in that one wardrobe. ``Oh! Ummm, no, I don't have a roommate, I promise. The previous tenant died, mom. My landlord said I could keep anything they left behind. That closet still has their clothes in it. But... I have just started dating someone, mom. I want you to meet them.''\n\n``Oh? He's there with you now? In your apartment?'' her mom asked. She didn't sound convinced. ``Oh! I do hope you're using birth control, my child!''\n\n``Mom! Really? That's one thing you definitely don't need to worry about. For one thing, I'm still a virgin. But as you'll see, the person I'm dating can't possibly get me pregnant.'' She gestured to Mia, and turned the phone so her mom could see both of them. ``This is Mia Chang, mother. She's my romantic girlfriend.''\n\n``Ummm, hello MS Bright, it's nice to meet you,'' Mia said.\n\n``Oh! Well... that was unexpected. Though I suppose it shouldn?t really surprise me, since Karen did go to one of her senior year high school dances with another girl as her date. Please, call me mom, Mia dear. When did this happen? How did you meet my daughter?'' Mom Bright asked.\n\n``We only decided to make it official yesterday, ma'am. My family has been here in Timberland's Chinatown for several generations. They own the restaurant below her apartment. She met one of my cousins there before she met me, the night she finished moving into her apartment. I met her the next day, when she got her new job. I'm the senior sales associate at the store Karen works at, and she has basically the same duties I have, so I trained her. The man we both work for, Mister Chen, is an old family friend, and well respected in the Chinatown community,'' Mia replied. ``Karen and I got to talking at work, and well... things just clicked? We became friends almost immediately. I wasn?t in the habit of dating ladies; any more than your daughter was. The only girl I dated before... Well, it wasn't a good experience. But... Your daughter is a much nicer person than that girl was. We only just met, but... well, I think something very real is developing between us. And I have my own apartment, a few blocks from hers. We're in no hurry to move in together, Ma'am.''\n\n``Well, I suppose she's told you I've dated ladies myself? So, I certainly have no problem with her having a lesbian partner. Nor do I care what species her lover is. I'll want to get to know you better, of course. You'll both have to come to Haven soon, to visit me and enjoy a home cooked meal,'' Karol Bright replied.\n\n``I'd like that, Ma'am,'' Mia said eagerly. ``And if you ever come to Timberland to visit Karen, don't even think of staying in a hotel! Her place is pretty small, but my apartment is only a few blocks away, and it has a second bedroom, which you are always welcome to stay in!''\n\n``Very nice of you. I'll be sure to let you know when I might be able to visit both of you,'' mom Bright replied. ``Sounds like you are mature and well established. But you... don't seem to be quite as young as my daughter? Am I right?''\n\n``Yes, ma'am. Honestly, that was another thing that surprised both of us. That the age difference between us didn't seem to matter. I'm 27, ma'am. 9 years older than Karen,'' Mia admitted. ``And I have a nice two-bedroom apartment because when I was her age, I was engaged to be married to my high school sweetheart. We were going to live together as man and wife, go to college together, and hoped to raise a family after we earned our degrees. But... well, he decided at the last minute to accept an out of state scholarship, and he called off our engagement after he fell for a vixen at his new school. I've had to work hard, and occasionally share my place with a roommate, to keep my apartment. But it is the one part of my childhood dreams that I couldn't bear to part with. I'd already lost the boy I loved, and the memories of my shattered dreams made it too difficult to finish my college plans. Losing the first home I ever had as an independent adult would have been too much. Besides, it's close to my family, and a short bus ride from here to the University. When Karen is ready to go to college, I hope we can go together, to support each other.''\n\n``Oh my! That is so sad, Mia dear! And so much like my own past. Be glad he didn't leave you with a bulging belly, like mine did. I love my little girl, and I never once regretted keeping her and raising her as a single mom. You've seen for yourself what a treasure she has grown into. Well, I like your attitude, dear. I think you'll be a good match for my ambitious daughter,'' mom Bright said.\n\n``I'm so glad you like her, mom!'' Karen commented.\n\n``Yes dear, I do like your girlfriend,'' her mom replied. So...How is everything else going for you?''\n\n``Work is good. Nice boss, and Mia as my coworker. Just the three of us, because it's a small store. Pay and benefits are generous,'' Karen replied. ``And the work is certainly never boring! The store gets all sorts of very unique merchandise to sell. I'm getting to learn every facet of the business, just like Mia. And, ummm, I may occasionally get to go on expense-paid, out of area business trips, to look at new merchandise, or finalize sales orders and shipments. Maybe even to China! So don't worry if sometimes you can't contact me by phone. I'm on a cheap phone contract to save money, so calls won't reach me, if I'm in some other country.''\n\nMia's phone buzzed with a text from her brother. She read it, then said, ``I hate to have us ring off so soon, mom Bright, but we haven't told my family that we're dating yet. That text was my brother, letting me know that their work schedules today will allow us to talk to all of them at once, fairly soon.''\n\n``Well, I will let you both go, then. But do send me a picture of you two together, for my fireplace mantle. I'll put it with my other pictures of Karen,'' mom Bright said.\n\n``We will! Bye mom! Love you to pieces! I'll email you later, and we can decide when we can visit you together,'' Karen said. She blew a kiss at her mom on the phone, then hung up.\n\n``That went well. I think I like your mom. Pretty unflappable. And she definitely wants to know you make a good match. Glad I made the cut!'' Mia said. ``Karl says he will have my family ready at 4, in the banquet room. That gives us more than an hour. Anyone else on your side we should call?''\n\n``I suppose I should call my grandparents on my mom's side. I don't have any other family. My relationship with them is pretty strained, though. When mom got pregnant in high school with me, I guess, at first, they tried to find my dad, to make him take responsibility for me. But they soon gave up, and kicked her out of their house. They were mad at mom for being so careless about contraception, and ruining her future prospects by becoming a teen aged single mom. I don't think they approved of my dad very much, either. They moved away long before I was old enough to recognize anyone, so I've never actually met them. My mom reluctantly re-established long-distance relations with them when I was five or so. Mostly by arguing that no matter how they felt about her, they should get to know me. After that, they sent me Christmas and birthday cards and presents, I sent them letters and photos when big things happened in my life. They even sent me a nice card and a check for my high school graduation. They called me on my cell phone the night I graduated, though. Only time I ever heard their voices. So, I still have their phone number in my recent calls list. And I've never met them in person, or even seen a photo of them,'' Karen said. ``I guess that when they kicked her out, mom got angry and burned their photos too, just like she did with my dad?s photos after he dumped her. Mom still won't talk to them, and didn't want me to have pictures of them or of my dad in my room. If they ever mailed me any photos in their letters, I never got to see them. She opened any of my mail from them, and read it before she gave it to me.''\n\n``Ouch! That's rough. I can't imagine a family where they would abandon anyone like that. Family, and ancestors, are really important to us,'' Mia said, giving her lover a hug. ``But surely your grandparents must have known who the guy was who dated and dumped their daughter, right? Didn't you say he was her high school sweetheart? Like my Kenny was, to me?''\n\n``I guess, yeah. I mean, seriously, all mom ever told me about dad was that she thought they were sweethearts, and she was devastated when he skipped town,'' Karen said, as she looked for their number in her phone. ``Gonna leave telling them about you for last, though. I have no idea how they will react to me being in a lesbian relationship.''\n\n``That's fine,'' Mia replied. ``Getting what you can about your dad is the most important point. Though I hope they do accept us as a couple.''\n\nKaren called the number. It rang just twice, before an older female voice picked up the call. ``Hello? Who is this, please? If you're selling anything, take us off your list.''\n\n``G-Grandma? It's Karen Bright. Your granddaughter. I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time?'' Karen replied, hesitantly.\n\n``Karen? But we just talked, less than two weeks ago? Has something bad happened to your mother, or to you?'' the voice replied.\n\n``Oh! Mom's fine, grandma. So am I. It's just... I wanted you to know that I've moved to Timberland, to start out on my own. Mom's still in Haven. I got a decent job here, and I'm trying to save up for college. But I'm not calling to beg for money or anything, either. Mostly, I hoped to give you my new apartment's mailing address?''\n\n``Sounds like you?re being more responsible than your mother ever was at your age. Go ahead. I'll write it down,'' grandma Bright replied.\n\nKaren gave her the address, and asked, ``Is grandpa there too? Could... could we switch this to a video call, maybe? I've never seen what you look like.''\n\n``You haven't? Well, never mind. We're both Timberwolves. My fur is white, while your grandfather's is grey. Women in our family fairly often get the white fur and hair, no matter what our fathers looked like. I'll mail you a few family photos. Your grandfather is fine, but he's at the grocery store. And I'm afraid we can't do fancy modern stuff like video calls on our old-fashioned rotary phone. A landline still works fine for us. We don't even own a computer. I'll give you our mailing address, though.'' She gave Karen the address, and added, ``I know it's been rough, living with your mother. And we failed pretty badly as parents. You're welcome to get to know us better, dear, now that you won't upset your mother by asking about... some things. We shouldn't blame you for our daughters' mistakes. Neither of them wants to talk to us these days. I hope you feel you can, now that you're a young adult, living on your own.''\n\nKaren put the address and phone number properly into her phone's contact list. But she nearly dropped the phone when her grandma casually mentioned another daughter! ``Wait, what? Did you just say daughters, plural? My mom has a sister? I thought she was an only child, like me! I never knew I had an aunt! Who is she? Where is she?'' \n\n``Why yes! Your mother has one older sister, and no brothers. Your aunt Christine is a year older than your mom, so, she would be 38 now? And she got her father's coloration, so she's grey furred. But I suppose it makes sense your mother would not have told you about Christine. They aren't on speaking terms at all. Your father was our older daughter's boyfriend first, when Christine was a Senior and Karol was a junior in high school. We had sternly warned both of our daughters that we would not stand for them getting pregnant before marriage. We're certain Christine and Devon still `fooled around' - oral sex and the like. But despite him pressuring her for intercourse, she obeyed our wishes and said she was saving her virginity for the man who married her. Unfortunately, he wasn't interested in getting married right out of high school. Then he seduced your 16-year-old mom, and dumped Christine. And your mother swore she loved the boy! Well, that was when Christine stopped talking to any of us, left home, and shacked up with Frank Grayson, a grey timberwolf who apparently was merely the first boy who would date her. As far as we knew, she'd never given him the time of day before that, but at least he was from a good family. She almost immediately got pregnant, and he married her with a three-month bulging belly, in the last quarter of their senior year. She was six months pregnant when she graduated. So, your aunt became Christine Grayson. They moved to Timberland a year after they graduated, and as far as I know, she's still there, somewhere. I'm afraid I can't tell you much more about her, though. We tried to find her, a year or so after you were born. And we eventually did contact Frank. But by then, Christine had an out of wedlock child, and had tried to pass him off as Frank's son. Frank was suspicious, because he and Christine were grey, and the bastard boy had black fur. So, Frank had a paternity test done, and when it proved the boy wasn't his, he divorced her for infidelity. He kept custody of their daughter, Samantha Grayson, who definitely was his child. Your cousin Samantha is 19, and since then, Frank has been gracious enough to allow us to be a part of her life, just as your mother did for you. Christine took her bastard boy baby, and we have no idea where she went after that.''\n\n``Wow! Mom never told me about her sister at all!'' Karen replied in astonishment. ``And the only thing she ever usually mentioned about my father was that he skipped town, after knocking her up! I don't suppose you could tell me anything about him? I do also know he's dead, and I know his parents refused to believe he was my dad, and that they blamed mom for making him run off and join the army, where he got killed. But that's it. I don't even know his name. But I want to know at least something more about him, in case he had any hereditary problems that might affect me.''\n\n``His name was Devon Stryker, dear. He was a black furred timberwolf, and as far as we ever knew, quite healthy. He was a year older than your mother. Honestly, I don't know what either of my daughters ever saw in him! He was good looking, I suppose. And his family was at least comfortably well off, as I understand it. Rich enough to give their boy a brand-new car, when he was still in high school. But he and his family kept to themselves, and never invited anyone to their home.'' Grandma Bright said. ``We put up with him because Our daughters loved him! But as you said, he betrayed them both, in the end''\n\n``Oh my! Ummm, did my mom and my aunt seem... weird around him? Like could he have drugged them? Or maybe hypnotized them?'' Karen asked cautiously.\n\n``We wish it was that simple, dear. No, he was just a rather charismatic boy, used to getting what he wants. And our daughters were young and naive. Try to do better when you choose someone to spend your life with, child,'' grandma Bright said.\n\n``It's... funny you would mention that, in quite that way, grandma. I... do have a special person in my life now, but they can't get me pregnant. Yesterday I started dating another woman. Her name is Mia Chang, and she is with me, right now,'' Karen admitted. ``You're on speakerphone, and she's been listening and can reply to you.''\n\n``Oh? Well, same sex relationships can be difficult for some people to accept, but people are certainly much more tolerant and accepting than when I was your age. Our next-door neighbors in our retirement community are a lesbian couple. We've learned a lot while getting to know them. They've been good neighbors,'' grandma Bright said. ``Mia, just be good to my granddaughter, and my husband and I will welcome you, without reservation. You just overheard a lot of our family's dirty laundry. We didn't do well in accepting and supporting our children, and I regret that. I hope we will have a better relationship with the two of you.''\n\n``I'm glad to hear you say that, Ma'am! This is Mia speaking. I promise not to hurt Karen like your daughters got hurt! I'm from a well-established family here in Timberland. My parents and my aunt and uncle co-own a popular restaurant here. I'm the senior sales associate at the store Karen works at. We met at work, quickly became good friends, and honestly, it kind of surprised both of us that we felt such a strong attraction for each other. Karen's hardly ever dated, and I usually date guys, so neither of us expected our next romance would be with a woman! We're just starting out as girlfriends. We only agreed to start dating yesterday. We plan to live separately, until we're sure this is going well. We're not rushing into anything, but we really do feel we have something very special growing between us.''\n\n``You sound like a level headed young woman, dear. Can't quite place your accent, though. You're not a wolf? Not that it matters, or is any of my business, I suppose. Just trying to envision you,'' grandma Bright asked. \n\n``I'm a black furred Chinese cat, ma'am. A few years older than Karen. We'll mail you some snapshots,'' Mia offered. \n\n``I would appreciate the photos, dear. Oh! And that reminds me! We have something else here which I should send to you, Karen. Copies of your mother's and aunt's high school yearbooks, from the years they graduated. There should be a few pictures of your father and aunt in those, as well as pictures of their classmates. Could prove useful in finding out more about that scallywag womanizer. They're just gathering dust here, and we're trying to get rid of unnecessary material possessions. You're welcome to them,'' grandma Bright offered.\n\n``Oh! That would be wonderful, grandma! I'd love to see any glimpses of mom's life when she was my age!'' Karen gushed. ``I guess I should let you go now. Mia and I need to meet her family soon. They're the next ones we need to tell we're dating.''\n\n``Well, thank you for trusting us with your `coming out', and for including us in your declarations of affection for each other, Karen. I hope you have a wonderful life together! Bye now!'' The phone went dead from the other end.\n\n===\n\nWhen they had finished lunch, Karen sorted somewhat frantically through her closets, searching for the best clothing to wear for formally meeting Mia's family. She really wanted to make a good impression! ``I considered ordering a cheongsam dress, but that felt too much like cultural appropriation,'' she said, as she looked at several sun dresses and put them back. ``No, too casual, and my biking leathers are way too butch.''\n\nMia laughed. ``Anything you would wear if you were going to the restaurant on your own for a meal would be fine. How about that red halter top, paired with a black skirt?''\n\nKaren peeled out of her clothes, put on the halter, with no bra, and started looking for the right skirt. ``Leather, velvet, corduroy, or cloth?''\n\n``The velvet one is nice. Don't worry too much about it, really!'' Mia insisted with a laugh.\n\n===\n\nWhen they went down to the restaurant, Karl was waiting for them at the side door closest to Karen's apartment. He gave his sister a thumbs up, and led them to the banquet room.\n\nKaren waited by the banquet room door, pretending to be examining a carved wall decoration of a Chinese dragon, while actually peeking in through the glass panes of the doors to see Keep an eye on Mia, as she and Karl entered the room. She knew who most of the people were already, and the others were easy enough to guess. Mia's mother looked much like her daughter, though there was grey in her upswept hair. She sat in a chair beside Mia's father, who Karen had seen Mia greet on visits to the restaurant. Seated beside Mr and Mrs Chang was another older couple, who had to be Mr and Mrs Zhao, Mia's aunt and uncle. They were all in their late 50's. Standing behind their respective parents were Karl and Jung Chang, and Mei Lin and Rio Zhou - Mia's brothers and cousins. Mei Lin noticed Karen through the glass, and after a surprised look of recognition, she gave her a big smile and a friendly wink.\n\nIn the room, Mia stood before her family, and spoke. ``Thank you for taking time during your shift change to meet with me. I'll keep this brief, so you can get back to work, or can head home. I have some important news to share with all of you.''\n\n``We always have time for you, daughter,'' her father said. ``Have you decided to resume your college studies? We can help with tuition, if that is delaying you.''\n\n``Thank you, father. But I shall need a little more time before going back to college. Rest assured that I will, eventually, but that is not my news,'' Mia replied.\n\n``You're not pregnant, surely?'' Her mother asked bluntly. ``Not that I would mind grandchildren, but getting a husband would be a better first step in raising a family.''\n\n``Mother! The last Guy I dated was a Great Dane. If he got me pregnant, I'd have a belly like an elephant by now! I'm using birth control quite carefully, I assure you. Nor am I getting married to a guy you don't know. But you would at least be on the right track in thinking it has to do with a romantic development.'' She looked at Karen and nodded.\n\nWhen the wolf girl entered the room, Mei Lin looked at her cousin, and then back to the wolf girl, and let out a stifled squeee of excitement, and covering her grinning mouth with one hand when Karen stood beside Mia, and Mia placed an arm around Karen's waist.\n\n``I think most of you know Karen Bright, either as a frequent customer these last few weeks, or as my coworker at The Curiosity Shoppe. We are now dating each other, as romantic girlfriends. We are not getting engaged, nor are we rushing to share an apartment and live together. She understands what happened the last time I was engaged to be married, and we've agreed to a slow and cautious approach to our being a couple. I wanted you to hear it from me, first, that I am entering into an openly lesbian relationship. We don?t intend to hide it, nor will we deny it or make excuses for our behavior. Neither of us was looking for love from another woman. But that?s where we found it. I hope you will be happy for us, and that you will all soon get to know my girlfriend better.''\n\nThere was a silent pause while the obviously excited younger relatives deferred to their elders for a first reaction. Mia's father was the first to react. He stood, walked over to the couple, and stared sternly down into Karen's unblinking eyes for a moment. Then he smiled, ever so slightly, and asked, ``Miss Bright? Do you love my daughter? You have only been among us, what? Less than two weeks? I remember her mentioning your first day at work.''\n\nKaren looked confidently back into his eyes, and said, ``Honored sir, yes, I think I do. I've never really been in love before. But being around Mia brings me great joy, and she feels similarly about being with me. We like and respect each other as friends, which is a solid basis for a romance. And we trust and support each other. If that isn't love, it certainly seems like a good foundation for a lasting romance. I promise never to hurt her.''\n\n``Daughter? Does she speak your mind in this? Have you anything to add?'' Mr Chang asked.\n\n``She says it more clearly than I would have, father. I agree with what she says,'' Mia replied. ``Mother? Do you want to say anything? I hope you will both accept our dating each other.''\n\nMrs Chang joined her husband. She was no taller than Karen, and looked the wolf girl in the eyes before asking, ``You have not always been a lesbian? Yet you want to date my daughter?''\n\n``Honored lady, before I met Mia, I had only been on two real dates. One was with a girl, the other with a boy,'' Karen replied. ``I am a studious type, and dating has never been a priority for me. Most of my friends would call me a nerd, and I wouldn't deny it. Then I met Mia, and... it was such a joy, chatting with her. We share interests in gaming and in reading preferences. She's mature and thoughtful. And before I ever thought about her romantically, she swiftly became a good friend. When I cautiously confessed that I found her physically attractive, it made me very happy to hear she felt the same way about me. I want to spend more time with her, and get to know each other completely. My mom is bisexual, so it was pretty easy for me to accept that I was falling in love with another woman.''\n\n``I see, and how old are you?'' Mrs Chang asked.\n\n``Eighteen, ma'am. I'll be 19 in December. I know our age difference is pretty big, but it doesn't matter to us. I hope it won't matter to you,'' Karen replied. She was getting worried. Mia's dad seemed to like her, but her mom was an enigma.\n\n``Hummm. And I had hoped to have grandchildren by now. Probably would have, if her fiance had stuck with her. But my sons don't seem very eager to become fathers.'' Mrs Chang commented, almost to herself.\n\n``Ma'am? If we do stay together and get married, I wouldn't object to raising kids. We haven't discussed that yet, but there are options we could consider, when we are ready for that. Lots of lesbian couples have babies and raise kids,'' Karen offered. Mentally she was considering that one of her male forms could impregnate Mia, and that they could claim they had quietly arranged for a surrogate father.\n\n``Very well. With or without grandchildren, you have my blessing. Make each other happy, my dear,'' Mrs Chang said.\n\n``Ahem! Yes, and my blessing as well. We're happy to see that Mia has found someone to trust with her heart,'' Mr Chang added.\n\nMr and Mrs Zhao whispered to each other, then Mister Zhou said simply, ``Congratulations,'' and they both smiled politely.\n\n``I knew it!'' Mei Lin shouted happily, as she rushed to embrace both Karen and Mia at once. ``I'm so happy for you both! When I saw Karen waiting outside, I just knew this had to be why she was there! You two kept denying you were a couple at game night on Sunday, but I could see the chemistry between you!''\n\n``Ah! Thank you! But seriously, we only decided to start dating yesterday! So, we were telling the truth that night. I'll admit, I was already starting to feel attracted to her that night, but I hadn't confessed my feelings yet, nor did I think she felt that way about me. In fact, she told me, after everyone else left that night, that she had mostly been trying to keep Karl from trying to seduce me!''\n\n``And it worked,'' Karl said, as he and Jung joined in the congratulatory hugs. ``I respected that my sister might have first dibs on Karen, even though they both admitted they were not really a couple. They may have thought they were fooling me, but now I see they just hadn't realized the truth of it themselves. I'm happy for you both, seriously.''\n\n``As am I,'' Jung added. ``We'll both be happy to treat you as our sister.''\n\nEach family member came up and welcomed Karen, then all but Mei Lin left, to resume their scheduled activities.\n\n``Will you be staying for dinner before you go to work tonight? I'm on waitress duty. I can get you a table right away,'' Mei Lin offered, as they left the banquet room.\n\nKaren paused for a moment, and then replied, ``We won't have time. We're leaving right now, to meet a friend.''\n\n``Oh? Ok, well, have a nice night, you two! And congratulations again!'' Mei Lin replied, striding back toward the main door of the restaurant, to resume her duties.\n\nMia looked questiongly at her lover. ``I thought Keiko was going to meet us here?''\n\n``Change of plans. Mistress Keiko just linked with me. Just trust us, and follow my lead,'' Karen replied.\n\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "Die Role, by SpectralWolf, July 2022

“She was an ordinary person... until she die'd.''

Chapter 8 - We're Coming Out...

It was a little after 2 PM on Tuesday, July 22nd when Karen Bright let her new girlfriend, Mia Chang, into her apartment. As soon as the door was closed behind them, the white furred, 18 year old timberwolf girl hugged her black furred, 27 year old feline lover tightly, and gave her a very passionate kiss.

Mia returned the kiss enthusiastically, but then giggled when Karen's tummy rumbled loudly. ``Oh my! Seems like all your appetites need satisfying! Hungry?''

Karen reluctantly broke off their hug and started heating a teakettle. ``Well, yeah? Even though we just ate a late breakfast a few hours ago, I did just spend the last two hours doing magic stuff that should be impossible! That magic lesson was a lot of work! Mistress Keiko and Mister Chen have both told us that using magic can make you hungry. Funny, though. I'm not tired at all, just... hungry. If anything, I feel pretty energetic! But yes, I'm both hungry and horny! But I don't want to go out for lunch. We have too much private stuff to deal with.''

``I'll phone in a delivery order to my parents' restaurant. Maybe I can sweet talk my brother Karl into bringing it up to us, so we could ask him privately about your `virginity problem'? He should be there right now, cooking for the end of the lunch rush,'' Mia replied. Once the order was placed, she said, ``Done, and Karl agreed to deliver it personally. Have any Oolong or Green tea?''

Karen opened a kitchen drawer, and put a couple of teabags into the heating kettle. ``Green tea. Came with my last takeout order.'' She sat back against the kitchen counter and sighed. ``Yeah, asking him here and now would be better than trying to ask at the restaurant.''

``Karen? I'm... really glad you chose me, to be your girlfriend,'' Mia said softly. She reached out and touched Karen's hand. ``It's wild to hear myself even saying that, when we've known each other for such a short time. But... There’s something about you, girl. Your openness and honesty. Your passion to achieve whatever you set your mind on. You've been so brave when faced with unexpected new experiences. And the way you keep your focus and composure, even when impossible things happen all around you. I've... never met anyone like you before. You're amazing. Even without all the incredible magic and shape changing stuff you can do, you'd be amazing.''

“Awww, that's so sweet!'' Karen replied. She leaned over and kissed her new girlfriend, and said. ``You're pretty amazing yourself. You didn't freak out when my cursed necklace changed me. You stood by me and volunteered to help in any way you can, even when that meant dealing with a supernatural creature you pretty much assumed at first was some sort of fearsome mythical demon! You've been such a good friend, and you've helped me to cope with these wild, chaotic changes in my life. I'm glad I chose you, too. My head is spinning right now, though. Twelve days ago, I was just a small town high school girl, packing to move out on her own. Now I have a beautiful girlfriend, and -ulp!- I just sealed a blood pact with a supernatural being, binding me to her service for the next 80 years! And I'm starting to learn to use real magic!'' She held out her hand, palm up, and concentrated, and a two inch diameter blue sphere of fire-like light appeared over her palm. Then she turned her hand lasily, and the intangible fire rolled around her hand and wrist, then split into three spheres, which rotated against each other while flat against her palm, like she was contact juggling with three glass balls.

``That's really pretty,'' Mia commented. ``It's also more than a little frightening, that you can already do stuff like that so easily. But I was watching her teach you, and I'm sure I never saw either of you doing that tricky contact juggling bit. I didn't know you could juggle at all. Did she teach you that, mind to mind?''

``Ummm, no, I saw it in a movie once, last year, I think? It was that live action and puppetry film from back in the 1970's, where a rock star ruled a goblin kingdom? He did this, with up to four glass balls. Well, they made it look like he did. The extra features on the disc showed it was really a pro juggler, reaching around the actor.'' She added a fourth ball of light into the mix, on top of the other three, and added, ``I'm sure I couldn't do this with even one glass ball, without magic. But it feels like I can make these fire wisps do anything I can imagine, now.''

“Ohhhh kay... But... Did you realize that your eyes are glowing with blue light right now? Like Mistress Keiko's eyes glow green when she is doing magic?'' Mia asked hesitantly. Then she sounded slightly petulant as she added, ``Oh, and I feel fine right now, so I don't think we have to worry about you draining me to do that.''

“Are they? No, I wasn't aware of that!'' Karen swiftly walked over to a full-length mirror on one of her wardrobe closets and looked at her reflection. She touched her face, blinked, then held her hands down by her side. The blue fire wisps, left behind by her lack of attention, coalesced into a single sphere, and trailed along after her, like a trained bird which adored their Mistress. When she stopped moving, it hovered above her right shoulder. ``I... better learn to control that glow. If it happens every time I use magic, I could get in trouble, if anyone notices it in public.'' She cocked her head to one side, concentrated, and the glow faded from her eyes, restoring their normal ice blue appearance. The fire wisp flickered a bit as her eyes dimmed, but she glanced at it, and it stabilized, almost as if she had told it to behave itself. Then she intentionally dismissed it with a wave of her hand. ``Okay, yeah, I can suppress that glow, and still do magic. Good to know''

“Well, if I start to feel weak, I`ll let you know,'' Mia said. She was somewhat concerned that her new lover hadn't even asked if it felt like her playing casually with magic was affecting Mia. But she attributed that to her excitement about learning she could do stuff like that at all. And to be fair, after that accident with the magic battery, and her first warning from Keiko, Karen had not appeared to drain power from other sources.

Karen returned to Mia and hugged her gently. “Mia, I understand that you're worried, but I am trying really hard to only use my own power when I do magic. Besides, I think I'm still kind of supercharged from my magic training session. That magic battery thing I accidentally destroyed had a lot of energy in it, and I drained it dry without even realizing it. I kind of need to burn some of it off, to get back to levels my body is used to containing. You know I would never want to hurt you, or anyone near me, right? I literally just gave control of my life to Mistress Keiko - to a Kitsune I only met this week, and thought was a purely mythical creature before we met her - just to learn how to control this magic. To learn how not to hurt anyone with it!''

``Yeah, I know. This is all just so confusing. Things are changing so fast... I do trust you, though,'' Mia replied. ``And now, we're going to stir the pot even more. By coming out publicly as a Lesbian couple, when all the people who are important to us believe we're both straight. Are you ready for that challenge?''

``With you by my side, I think I'm ready for anything!'' Karen said. She laughed, spun Mia around as she swept her hand in a circle around them, and filled the air with red, heart-shaped fire wisps. She hugged Mia tightly and added, ``Bring it on! I'm ready to tell the world that this beautiful woman in my arms is the one who captured my heart!'' The little fire wisps burst like miniature fireworks, dissipating into a haze of glowing red glitter before shifting hues to form a faintly glowing rainbow. As her spontaneous magical light show subsided, she added less dramatically, ``That cute light show should burn off enough magic that I won't be tempted to keep playing with it. Seriously though, I certainly don't care who calls us lesbians. And I want to work with you to try to make our relationship work, ok? It probably is too soon to call it love, between us. But I do, in all seriousness, think we're heading that direction.''

Mia gasped at the display, and giggled when the rainbow formed, ``Girl, you are crazy! But I like your style! And I agree. It's fun to think this is true love at first sight, but the reality is, we're just starting down that path. It will take work, from both of us, to make it last. And I will be happy to face that challenge at your side, dear friend.''

While they waited for Karl to arrive, they sat down beside each other on the futon couch, holding hands, kissing gently, and discussing their future plans, particularly how to talk to their families about their budding relationship.

===

When Karl arrived with their lunch, he initially appeared concerned, but his smile brightened considerably as soon as he realized it was Karen who had opened the door, and that Mia was beside the timberwolf girl, and was smiling. ``Oh! Hello Karen! I assume this must be your apartment? I was rather worried when Mia specifically wanted me to deliver takeout to her, at an address I didn't know. I forgot that you said your apartment was above our kitchens.''

``Yep! This is my place, such as it is, please, come in!'' Karen said, as she closed the door behind Karl. ``And don't worry. Nothing is wrong. Quite the opposite, really!''

Karl handed the food bag to his sister, collected her payment, and then asked, ``Okay, what's going on, you two? Mia knows I never do the deliveries. I'm too busy as a cook. I was afraid a date had gone badly, and she needed my protection.''

Mia set the food on the table in front of the futon, then returned and possessively curled one arm around the white furred girl's waist. Karen immediately returned the affectionate gesture.

``I'm fine, I promise. I asked you to come here so you can be the first in our family to hear some good news. My dear brother, can you get the whole family together for me, before 5 pm or so? I want to talk to all of them at once.'' Mia said seriously.

Karl looked back and forth between his sister to Karen, noted they both had lipstick smudges on their faces and necks, in each other's lip colors, then laughed heartily, and said, ``Let me guess. This beautiful wolf girl has swept my beloved sister off her feet, and you eloped and secretly got married? Can?t blame you if she did, sis. She's a keeper, and I thought you seemed pretty possessive of her at game night last Sunday, despite how much you both denied being `a couple' that evening.''

``Are we that obvious? Not married, or even engaged, no. But she has `swept me off my feet', as you put it, and we're `intimate girlfriends in an open relationship' now.'' She paused to make sure his attention was fully on her, then quietly added, ``And... my other reason for getting you here, in a more private place where we can talk openly... she knows about and accepts my sexual relationship with you and Jung. We plan to be very `out' publicly as Partners, which should also distract our family and friends from continuing to pester me about why I never tried very hard to hook up with another boyfriend, after Kenny dumped me. No one should suspect what I do privately with you and Jung, if they believe I've come out as a lesbian, and that I'm quite happy being monogamous with Karen. And only close, trusted friends will know we actually have an open relationship.''

``Yeah. I promise, I really don't care that she fucks her brothers, as long as you treat her well, and I can have her as my intimate partner, too. I won't tell anyone. I have secrets of my own that are more controversial, which I trust her with, and plan to trust both you and Jung with,'' Karen said. ``She told me all about how you and Jung became her lovers. I may have some issues with how you tricked your sister into sex in the first place, but I think it is sweet, the way you stepped forward to financially support her after her fiance dumped her. I can accept that my relationship with Mia needs to be an open one, which includes both of you. I'm... even open to joining the three of you and getting intimate myself with you, and with Jung, though Mia will be my main focus. We... asked you to come up here, so I could ask a very special favor from you. One I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy.''

``More controversial than sibling incest? That should be interesting. Okay, as long as you also agree to treat our sister well, you obviously have my approval as a couple. I just want my sister to be happy. I'm pretty sure Jung won't object either, and that both of us would enjoy you joining us. Is that the favor? Turning our threesome nights into foursomes?'' Karl asked. ``Or do you want me to smooth it over with our parents, that Mia is now going to be openly lesbian? Look, the family accepts my flagrant bisexuality, so they should accept her being a lesbian.''

``That?s not it, no. It's.... Well, I'm... still a virgin. I've never had sex with a guy. I found you attractive the first time I saw you. Which was before you met me, by the way, though I had no clue who you were, when I saw you the morning of game night, jogging and showing off that buff bod of yours at riverfront park. And as much as Mia and I want to be lovers, we're both bisexual. She thought I would enjoy my first experience with penetrative sex more with a real guy, rather than her popping my cherry with a strap on or a dildo.'' Karen replied, blushing fiercely.

``Oh, you'll have to twist my arm really hard for that one, girl!'' The buff Rottweiler boy replied with a laugh. ``And I can't believe I can't remember seeing your pretty face in the park! Of course, I would be honored to be your first male lover, with the full understanding that Mia has already claimed you for herself, and absolutely has priority in your affections. And I will try to be gentle and make it really good for you. Can't do that right now, of course. I need to get back to work. What works well for you two? I presume Mia wants to be there for that moment?''

``I think you had your attention on a cute femboy, when I saw you at the park. How about we do it at Amber's party this Saturday?'' Karen suggested.

Mia looked surprised, but added, ``Well, that would be the best place for all of us to safely fuck each other. Amber has already told me she wants to get sexy with Karen, once Karen chooses to get sexually active,'' Mia replied. ``And we... have another special female friend, who wants to both watch and participate, at Amber's next party. We'll be introducing her to Amber today, but we're certain Amber will love her.''

``Which is why I suggested we do it at the party,'' Karen said. ``My first thought - and what Mia and I had initially discussed when we decided to get you here to ask you to be my first male lover - was for it to be just the three of us, here or at Mia's place. But... that `other girl' really would appreciate being present, too. And getting fucked by a bunch of guys and girls in one night certainly will be memorable!''

``Another female lover? Is my sister assembling a harem? You're just full of surprises today,'' Karl replied. ``Well, Karen, yes, that will definitely be throwing yourself into the deep end for your deflowering. And I know Amber will think it is pretty hot, for her and her guests to witness your first time. In fact, if you feel up for a really over the top experience, we could arrange to film it as a commercial sex video. The studio Amber works for pays really well for genuine `a virgin's first time' videos. So, as long as Amber approves, why not? And you really have me curious about the other girl. Do I know her, too?''

``No commercial sex videos for me, thanks. But let me think about allowing Amber to film it, so people I approve can keep personal copies, OK? And no, you haven't met our new female friend. She just moved into the area, and we only met her a few days ago,'' Karen replied. ``We actually haven't been intimate with her yet ourselves, but she clearly wants to be `friends with benefits', as soon as we are ready to let her join us. But no more about her until the party. You'll all meet her on Saturday.''

Mia nodded and said, ``That pretty well covers it. You can tell Jung everything we just told you,'' Mia added. ``As far as the rest of the family is concerned, let me be the one to tell them we're a couple now. I want to tell all of them at once, while Karen is with me.''

``You got it, sis! If they try to get me to tell why you're getting us all together, I'll imply it might be about you going back to college. Mom and dad would certainly like it if you finished your degree,'' Karl said. He gave both girls a brotherly kiss, then said, ``I'll text you, to let you know when. Probably at 4 or so? That's when the evening shift of cooks and waitresses tends to arrive. So, the family members who are not on duty right now will be arriving, and the rest of us won't have left yet.''

``Thank you. And I think I will try to finish college when Karen is ready to start college too, so we can study and attend together. But it will be a while before either of us has saved enough to cover our tuition and other expenses,'' Mia replied, as she let him out.

===

The girls started to eat their lunch. ``Karen? You really surprised me just then. You explained your reasoning pretty well, but are you really sure you want to lose your virginity at a sex party? Even with several people who you don't know watching you, and maybe wanting to join in? That's a pretty big leap!''

``Yeah, well, something more private and intimate would have been nice, sure. But if we can get everyone together in one spot with Keiko, and their attention is mostly on me, that should make it easier for her to do her geas thing on the ones we plan to trust, right? But I... Well, honestly, I didn't really think about how many others that I don't know might be there. You hadn't made it sound like those parties were huge orgies. Who else could we expect?'' Karen asked.

``The core group consists of seven of us - Amber and her brother, myself and my two brothers, and two otters. Rachel and Rowan Riverbrook are twin brown river otters, who live with Amber and her brother, so they will always be there on party nights. They're 19 years old. Like a lot of otter girls, Rachel is slender, with A-cup boobs. Her twin, Rowan, was born male, but is gender fluid. Rowan likes dressing and acting like they're Rachel's identical twin sister. And they can pull it off remarkably well, because even as a guy, their face, figure and hair length are close to identical to Rachel's. Rowan's pronouns shift with their presentation. So, most of the time, when they're acting feminine, you should use female pronouns for her. But if they braid their long hair and stuff it under a cap, and otherwise act masculine, use male pronouns for him. If you're not sure, use they/them,'' Mia explained. ``The twins got thrown out onto the streets last year, when their parents caught them fucking each other. Amber found them begging for spare change, and gave them a safe home, Like Amber and her brother, the twins are now sex workers and porn actors.'' Mia said.

``Rowan sounds... confusing. But I'll try to get it right when I talk about them,'' Karen replied. ``It's so sad when parents don't accept their own children. But you said there are others, too?''

``Yes. There's Hal Wilson and his wife, Sophia. They're both red foxes, and they run the production studios which Amber and her brother do porn films for. Their actors also do TV commercials, and some sing or play in local bands. Hal is 69, and Sophia is 51. They're the oldest people I have ever seen at a sex party. They usually show up when Amber plans in advance to shoot videos of people at her party. But they can come any time. How many others show up is mostly up to Amber. Usually, on any given party night, Amber will also invite at least two to four others from among her circle of trusted, intimate friends. Most of her guests are in their late teens to late 20's. And most of them are sex workers or porn actors, though some are just people Amber likes personally, and has decided to trust. Like you, for example. So... at least a dozen people? But I've never seen it be more than 15 or so. After all, the more people she allows to attend, the more risk there is that those of us who openly engage in incest there could get publicly exposed.''

``Ok. I guess I could be okay with that many people, if I know they are all folks you and Amber trust. And as I told your brother, I need to think about being on camera,'' Karen said. ``I suppose I wouldn't mind some personal videos we could share with chosen, intimate friends? Like you and your brothers made? But I don't think I'd like seeing myself on the cover of a porn film that gets sold to the public. I'd die of embarrassment if my mom found out I gave porn acting a whirl!''

``Well, I would enjoy watching and being able to keep a sex video of us together. If I ever did do a new one, it would be to share that experience with you. But honestly, that's why I haven't joined them in a commercial porn film, yet. Amber offered me the opportunity to act in one, but I'd be afraid some family friend would buy my movie, and show it to my parents! Karl, on the other hand, has done six porn films with Amber and her friends. My brother doesn't care what anyone thinks about his sex life. He thinks it's a cool, macho thing for a guy to be a porn star, and he says it is fun.'' Mia replied. She thought about it for a moment, then added, ``I will admit, though, that the porn films Amber and her friends make are better than most of the junk you find in an adult shop. Their porn videos have actual characters, plot, and dialog. And her parties are not just wild orgies, either. She never charges anyone to attend, even though she could make a lot of money off of `attend an orgy with porn stars' events. They're a gathering of friends, supportive of everyone's pleasure and enjoyment. A safe place where lovers who couldn't be as open about being in love with each other as we can, have a safe space to be themselves.''

``What is her home like, anyway?'' Karen asked. ``I gather her home is pretty big. Does she live in a big condo, or a large apartment like yours? Or a suburban house?''

``Amber and her brother tried renting a suburban house at first, but it was too small to have friends over, their landlord was getting nosy, and there wasn't enough privacy from their neighbors, ``Mia said. ``So, two years ago, with help from the porn studio that they work for, they bought an old farmhouse, on the edge of town. It has enough land on any side that her neighbors or people driving down the road in front of her home probably don't even know when she is throwing a party, much less the kinds of things we do there. From the street, her place looks like it is just one of the many older two story, multi-family farm homes that are common in that area. I guess at one point it was the family home for a small working farm, though most of the farmland got sold to their neighbors at some point. The remaining land around on three sides is pretty densely planted with tall evergreen trees, and her two-story house and what used to be a barn hides her back yard and any cars her guests bring. In her backyard she has a big outdoor pool, and that part of the property is very private. Her sex parties start about Noon, and some of the guests may come and go at other times. Lunch, dinner, and drinks, including booze, are taken care of in various ways, but no drugs are allowed on her property. Amber's home has two extra bedrooms with Queen beds, where her guests can have more privacy, or can spend the night. So, if you get cold feet about having all of them watch Karl popping your cherry, you could choose a smaller group and do it in a bedroom. Most of the sex goes on in the great room, a big, open room adjacent to tge kitchen, with several comfy, huge couches and a decent sized wall-mounted TV, for watching porn films. Or in nice weather, the party moves outside, by the swimming pool. Needless to say, the otter twins love the pool. They even set up two water slides!''

``It sounds nice. A lot better than what I expected, really,'' Karen said. ``Not sure what I had in mind, really. A run-down version of one of those crazy mansions owned by an old geezer who publishes men's nudie magazines and runs swanky `gentlemen's clubs', I guess. Like that old ferret guy who always has sexy young centerfold models from his magazines surrounding him? But what you described is nice. A lot like Amber herself, really. When I've talked with her... she just comes across as a really nice person, you know?''

``She is nice, yeah. And when she offered to actually date you herself, and not just offer you her `professional services' for hire, I'm sure she sincerely meant it. She and her brother have an open relationship, just like my brothers and I do. And she considers any dating relationship to be quite separate from her profession as a sex worker.'' Mia replied, then said, ``So... A question about you and Mistress Keiko... What's it like, when she is linked to your mind? Is the link always there? Do you always hear each other? Will she always know what you are thinking about? Ummmm, does she... know every last thing you know? Even stuff you'd rather keep private?''

``Well, I only have a few hours' experience to go on. But she made it clear that we're not usually going to be that closely linked, no. Most of the time, I'm pretty sure she has better things to do than eavesdrop on my mind. When our link is in a passive state, like right now, the soul bond only allows us to know if the other needs to open a deeper connection, and apparently, we can feel their emotional state if emotions get intense enough. She would know immediately if I got really frightened or angry, for example. Like, I can tell you she's calm right now, and she's thinking about me, possibly about us, but not yet trying to open a link to me. She would know the same about me, and distance doesn't seem to matter,'' Karen replied. ``Establishing a link from my end, it's sort of like making a phone call? I think about wanting her to hear me, and pretty soon I get a feeling that she can. When she wants to start a conversation that way, I feel her in my mind, and I have to think about opening the connection. Once the link is open, then we choose how much to share with each other. It could just be like spoken words, heard in our minds. Or we can let them see and hear exactly what we see and hear. Or we can share a personal memory with each other. And she can do way more. She can show me whole experiences, through our link. Like, what it should feel like to make those fire wisps, and how to control them. She can also actually guide my mind and my body, while she teaches me new things. That's... weird. I feel sort of like she is using me like a puppet, and I am both doing the task, and observing myself, but from her perspective. Either of us can end it. Of course, she can certainly force her way in, and can probably search my memories and probe way deeper than I might want her to. But so far, she seems to respect my mental privacy. I haven't tried stopping her, but as far as I can tell, she hasn't tried to know things I am not freely sharing.''

``Weird. When she looked at my memories - of my brothers, Amber and her brother - she didn't really talk to my mind that deeply. I felt... kind of a pressure... when she started looking for those memories. But then I agreed to let her in, so that pressure only lasted a moment. And then nothing felt unusual. I couldn't tell she was there at all. After she commented on what she had found, and said she was done, I felt no different. Well, I guess she'll be talking in my mind too, some day. Sounds like it would be the easiest way for her to show me what to do to help you. Not sure I am looking forward to that. Although, I do kind of wish I could do that mind-link thing with you,'' Mia said. ``Well, our families can't read our minds, so we'd better get back to telling them about us being a couple. Shall we call your mom next?''

``Someday, we probably will have a similar connection. I'd like that too. Well, telling my mom should be easy. She dates both guys and girls, so she won't care if I have a female lover,'' Karen replied, as she got her phone ready. ``I'll do this as a video chat. Just me at first, so I can show her my apartment. I'll let you know when to let her see you. Stay off screen until then.''

``Gotcha,'' Mia replied, standing up so she could move easily, if necessary.

Karen opened the video call. Her mom picked up right away. ``Hi mom! Calling to check in.''

``Well! I was beginning to wonder about you, my dear! You've been there more than a week, and the last time you called was the day you got your apartment!'' Her mother chided. ``All settled in? If you're at home now, please let me see!''

Karen held her phone up and panned around the room. ``No real view out my windows, though they can let in a lot of light or fresh air. One of them opens onto a fire escape balcony. I'm on the second floor, across a narrow side street from a popular nightclub. And I have a secure mini-garage for my motorbike, right across the street. The place I work is on the same block as my apartment, beside my building. Really convenient. As you see, I have some good starter furniture. The place came with those three big wardrobe closets. It's just a small studio, so I chose a futon couch for my bed.''

``Better than my first apartment on my own,'' her mom confessed. ``But is that a man's clothes I see in that open wardrobe near the corner? Have you had a boyfriend move in with you already?''

Karen belatedly realized some of her `Kraig' clothes were indeed visible in that one wardrobe. ``Oh! Ummm, no, I don't have a roommate, I promise. The previous tenant died, mom. My landlord said I could keep anything they left behind. That closet still has their clothes in it. But... I have just started dating someone, mom. I want you to meet them.''

``Oh? He's there with you now? In your apartment?'' her mom asked. She didn't sound convinced. ``Oh! I do hope you're using birth control, my child!''

``Mom! Really? That's one thing you definitely don't need to worry about. For one thing, I'm still a virgin. But as you'll see, the person I'm dating can't possibly get me pregnant.'' She gestured to Mia, and turned the phone so her mom could see both of them. ``This is Mia Chang, mother. She's my romantic girlfriend.''

``Ummm, hello MS Bright, it's nice to meet you,'' Mia said.

``Oh! Well... that was unexpected. Though I suppose it shouldn?t really surprise me, since Karen did go to one of her senior year high school dances with another girl as her date. Please, call me mom, Mia dear. When did this happen? How did you meet my daughter?'' Mom Bright asked.

``We only decided to make it official yesterday, ma'am. My family has been here in Timberland's Chinatown for several generations. They own the restaurant below her apartment. She met one of my cousins there before she met me, the night she finished moving into her apartment. I met her the next day, when she got her new job. I'm the senior sales associate at the store Karen works at, and she has basically the same duties I have, so I trained her. The man we both work for, Mister Chen, is an old family friend, and well respected in the Chinatown community,'' Mia replied. ``Karen and I got to talking at work, and well... things just clicked? We became friends almost immediately. I wasn?t in the habit of dating ladies; any more than your daughter was. The only girl I dated before... Well, it wasn't a good experience. But... Your daughter is a much nicer person than that girl was. We only just met, but... well, I think something very real is developing between us. And I have my own apartment, a few blocks from hers. We're in no hurry to move in together, Ma'am.''

``Well, I suppose she's told you I've dated ladies myself? So, I certainly have no problem with her having a lesbian partner. Nor do I care what species her lover is. I'll want to get to know you better, of course. You'll both have to come to Haven soon, to visit me and enjoy a home cooked meal,'' Karol Bright replied.

``I'd like that, Ma'am,'' Mia said eagerly. ``And if you ever come to Timberland to visit Karen, don't even think of staying in a hotel! Her place is pretty small, but my apartment is only a few blocks away, and it has a second bedroom, which you are always welcome to stay in!''

``Very nice of you. I'll be sure to let you know when I might be able to visit both of you,'' mom Bright replied. ``Sounds like you are mature and well established. But you... don't seem to be quite as young as my daughter? Am I right?''

``Yes, ma'am. Honestly, that was another thing that surprised both of us. That the age difference between us didn't seem to matter. I'm 27, ma'am. 9 years older than Karen,'' Mia admitted. ``And I have a nice two-bedroom apartment because when I was her age, I was engaged to be married to my high school sweetheart. We were going to live together as man and wife, go to college together, and hoped to raise a family after we earned our degrees. But... well, he decided at the last minute to accept an out of state scholarship, and he called off our engagement after he fell for a vixen at his new school. I've had to work hard, and occasionally share my place with a roommate, to keep my apartment. But it is the one part of my childhood dreams that I couldn't bear to part with. I'd already lost the boy I loved, and the memories of my shattered dreams made it too difficult to finish my college plans. Losing the first home I ever had as an independent adult would have been too much. Besides, it's close to my family, and a short bus ride from here to the University. When Karen is ready to go to college, I hope we can go together, to support each other.''

``Oh my! That is so sad, Mia dear! And so much like my own past. Be glad he didn't leave you with a bulging belly, like mine did. I love my little girl, and I never once regretted keeping her and raising her as a single mom. You've seen for yourself what a treasure she has grown into. Well, I like your attitude, dear. I think you'll be a good match for my ambitious daughter,'' mom Bright said.

``I'm so glad you like her, mom!'' Karen commented.

``Yes dear, I do like your girlfriend,'' her mom replied. So...How is everything else going for you?''

``Work is good. Nice boss, and Mia as my coworker. Just the three of us, because it's a small store. Pay and benefits are generous,'' Karen replied. ``And the work is certainly never boring! The store gets all sorts of very unique merchandise to sell. I'm getting to learn every facet of the business, just like Mia. And, ummm, I may occasionally get to go on expense-paid, out of area business trips, to look at new merchandise, or finalize sales orders and shipments. Maybe even to China! So don't worry if sometimes you can't contact me by phone. I'm on a cheap phone contract to save money, so calls won't reach me, if I'm in some other country.''

Mia's phone buzzed with a text from her brother. She read it, then said, ``I hate to have us ring off so soon, mom Bright, but we haven't told my family that we're dating yet. That text was my brother, letting me know that their work schedules today will allow us to talk to all of them at once, fairly soon.''

``Well, I will let you both go, then. But do send me a picture of you two together, for my fireplace mantle. I'll put it with my other pictures of Karen,'' mom Bright said.

``We will! Bye mom! Love you to pieces! I'll email you later, and we can decide when we can visit you together,'' Karen said. She blew a kiss at her mom on the phone, then hung up.

``That went well. I think I like your mom. Pretty unflappable. And she definitely wants to know you make a good match. Glad I made the cut!'' Mia said. ``Karl says he will have my family ready at 4, in the banquet room. That gives us more than an hour. Anyone else on your side we should call?''

``I suppose I should call my grandparents on my mom's side. I don't have any other family. My relationship with them is pretty strained, though. When mom got pregnant in high school with me, I guess, at first, they tried to find my dad, to make him take responsibility for me. But they soon gave up, and kicked her out of their house. They were mad at mom for being so careless about contraception, and ruining her future prospects by becoming a teen aged single mom. I don't think they approved of my dad very much, either. They moved away long before I was old enough to recognize anyone, so I've never actually met them. My mom reluctantly re-established long-distance relations with them when I was five or so. Mostly by arguing that no matter how they felt about her, they should get to know me. After that, they sent me Christmas and birthday cards and presents, I sent them letters and photos when big things happened in my life. They even sent me a nice card and a check for my high school graduation. They called me on my cell phone the night I graduated, though. Only time I ever heard their voices. So, I still have their phone number in my recent calls list. And I've never met them in person, or even seen a photo of them,'' Karen said. ``I guess that when they kicked her out, mom got angry and burned their photos too, just like she did with my dad?s photos after he dumped her. Mom still won't talk to them, and didn't want me to have pictures of them or of my dad in my room. If they ever mailed me any photos in their letters, I never got to see them. She opened any of my mail from them, and read it before she gave it to me.''

``Ouch! That's rough. I can't imagine a family where they would abandon anyone like that. Family, and ancestors, are really important to us,'' Mia said, giving her lover a hug. ``But surely your grandparents must have known who the guy was who dated and dumped their daughter, right? Didn't you say he was her high school sweetheart? Like my Kenny was, to me?''

``I guess, yeah. I mean, seriously, all mom ever told me about dad was that she thought they were sweethearts, and she was devastated when he skipped town,'' Karen said, as she looked for their number in her phone. ``Gonna leave telling them about you for last, though. I have no idea how they will react to me being in a lesbian relationship.''

``That's fine,'' Mia replied. ``Getting what you can about your dad is the most important point. Though I hope they do accept us as a couple.''

Karen called the number. It rang just twice, before an older female voice picked up the call. ``Hello? Who is this, please? If you're selling anything, take us off your list.''

``G-Grandma? It's Karen Bright. Your granddaughter. I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time?'' Karen replied, hesitantly.

``Karen? But we just talked, less than two weeks ago? Has something bad happened to your mother, or to you?'' the voice replied.

``Oh! Mom's fine, grandma. So am I. It's just... I wanted you to know that I've moved to Timberland, to start out on my own. Mom's still in Haven. I got a decent job here, and I'm trying to save up for college. But I'm not calling to beg for money or anything, either. Mostly, I hoped to give you my new apartment's mailing address?''

``Sounds like you?re being more responsible than your mother ever was at your age. Go ahead. I'll write it down,'' grandma Bright replied.

Karen gave her the address, and asked, ``Is grandpa there too? Could... could we switch this to a video call, maybe? I've never seen what you look like.''

``You haven't? Well, never mind. We're both Timberwolves. My fur is white, while your grandfather's is grey. Women in our family fairly often get the white fur and hair, no matter what our fathers looked like. I'll mail you a few family photos. Your grandfather is fine, but he's at the grocery store. And I'm afraid we can't do fancy modern stuff like video calls on our old-fashioned rotary phone. A landline still works fine for us. We don't even own a computer. I'll give you our mailing address, though.'' She gave Karen the address, and added, ``I know it's been rough, living with your mother. And we failed pretty badly as parents. You're welcome to get to know us better, dear, now that you won't upset your mother by asking about... some things. We shouldn't blame you for our daughters' mistakes. Neither of them wants to talk to us these days. I hope you feel you can, now that you're a young adult, living on your own.''

Karen put the address and phone number properly into her phone's contact list. But she nearly dropped the phone when her grandma casually mentioned another daughter! ``Wait, what? Did you just say daughters, plural? My mom has a sister? I thought she was an only child, like me! I never knew I had an aunt! Who is she? Where is she?''

``Why yes! Your mother has one older sister, and no brothers. Your aunt Christine is a year older than your mom, so, she would be 38 now? And she got her father's coloration, so she's grey furred. But I suppose it makes sense your mother would not have told you about Christine. They aren't on speaking terms at all. Your father was our older daughter's boyfriend first, when Christine was a Senior and Karol was a junior in high school. We had sternly warned both of our daughters that we would not stand for them getting pregnant before marriage. We're certain Christine and Devon still `fooled around' - oral sex and the like. But despite him pressuring her for intercourse, she obeyed our wishes and said she was saving her virginity for the man who married her. Unfortunately, he wasn't interested in getting married right out of high school. Then he seduced your 16-year-old mom, and dumped Christine. And your mother swore she loved the boy! Well, that was when Christine stopped talking to any of us, left home, and shacked up with Frank Grayson, a grey timberwolf who apparently was merely the first boy who would date her. As far as we knew, she'd never given him the time of day before that, but at least he was from a good family. She almost immediately got pregnant, and he married her with a three-month bulging belly, in the last quarter of their senior year. She was six months pregnant when she graduated. So, your aunt became Christine Grayson. They moved to Timberland a year after they graduated, and as far as I know, she's still there, somewhere. I'm afraid I can't tell you much more about her, though. We tried to find her, a year or so after you were born. And we eventually did contact Frank. But by then, Christine had an out of wedlock child, and had tried to pass him off as Frank's son. Frank was suspicious, because he and Christine were grey, and the bastard boy had black fur. So, Frank had a paternity test done, and when it proved the boy wasn't his, he divorced her for infidelity. He kept custody of their daughter, Samantha Grayson, who definitely was his child. Your cousin Samantha is 19, and since then, Frank has been gracious enough to allow us to be a part of her life, just as your mother did for you. Christine took her bastard boy baby, and we have no idea where she went after that.''

``Wow! Mom never told me about her sister at all!'' Karen replied in astonishment. ``And the only thing she ever usually mentioned about my father was that he skipped town, after knocking her up! I don't suppose you could tell me anything about him? I do also know he's dead, and I know his parents refused to believe he was my dad, and that they blamed mom for making him run off and join the army, where he got killed. But that's it. I don't even know his name. But I want to know at least something more about him, in case he had any hereditary problems that might affect me.''

``His name was Devon Stryker, dear. He was a black furred timberwolf, and as far as we ever knew, quite healthy. He was a year older than your mother. Honestly, I don't know what either of my daughters ever saw in him! He was good looking, I suppose. And his family was at least comfortably well off, as I understand it. Rich enough to give their boy a brand-new car, when he was still in high school. But he and his family kept to themselves, and never invited anyone to their home.'' Grandma Bright said. ``We put up with him because Our daughters loved him! But as you said, he betrayed them both, in the end''

``Oh my! Ummm, did my mom and my aunt seem... weird around him? Like could he have drugged them? Or maybe hypnotized them?'' Karen asked cautiously.

``We wish it was that simple, dear. No, he was just a rather charismatic boy, used to getting what he wants. And our daughters were young and naive. Try to do better when you choose someone to spend your life with, child,'' grandma Bright said.

``It's... funny you would mention that, in quite that way, grandma. I... do have a special person in my life now, but they can't get me pregnant. Yesterday I started dating another woman. Her name is Mia Chang, and she is with me, right now,'' Karen admitted. ``You're on speakerphone, and she's been listening and can reply to you.''

``Oh? Well, same sex relationships can be difficult for some people to accept, but people are certainly much more tolerant and accepting than when I was your age. Our next-door neighbors in our retirement community are a lesbian couple. We've learned a lot while getting to know them. They've been good neighbors,'' grandma Bright said. ``Mia, just be good to my granddaughter, and my husband and I will welcome you, without reservation. You just overheard a lot of our family's dirty laundry. We didn't do well in accepting and supporting our children, and I regret that. I hope we will have a better relationship with the two of you.''

``I'm glad to hear you say that, Ma'am! This is Mia speaking. I promise not to hurt Karen like your daughters got hurt! I'm from a well-established family here in Timberland. My parents and my aunt and uncle co-own a popular restaurant here. I'm the senior sales associate at the store Karen works at. We met at work, quickly became good friends, and honestly, it kind of surprised both of us that we felt such a strong attraction for each other. Karen's hardly ever dated, and I usually date guys, so neither of us expected our next romance would be with a woman! We're just starting out as girlfriends. We only agreed to start dating yesterday. We plan to live separately, until we're sure this is going well. We're not rushing into anything, but we really do feel we have something very special growing between us.''

``You sound like a level headed young woman, dear. Can't quite place your accent, though. You're not a wolf? Not that it matters, or is any of my business, I suppose. Just trying to envision you,'' grandma Bright asked.

``I'm a black furred Chinese cat, ma'am. A few years older than Karen. We'll mail you some snapshots,'' Mia offered.

``I would appreciate the photos, dear. Oh! And that reminds me! We have something else here which I should send to you, Karen. Copies of your mother's and aunt's high school yearbooks, from the years they graduated. There should be a few pictures of your father and aunt in those, as well as pictures of their classmates. Could prove useful in finding out more about that scallywag womanizer. They're just gathering dust here, and we're trying to get rid of unnecessary material possessions. You're welcome to them,'' grandma Bright offered.

``Oh! That would be wonderful, grandma! I'd love to see any glimpses of mom's life when she was my age!'' Karen gushed. ``I guess I should let you go now. Mia and I need to meet her family soon. They're the next ones we need to tell we're dating.''

``Well, thank you for trusting us with your `coming out', and for including us in your declarations of affection for each other, Karen. I hope you have a wonderful life together! Bye now!'' The phone went dead from the other end.

===

When they had finished lunch, Karen sorted somewhat frantically through her closets, searching for the best clothing to wear for formally meeting Mia's family. She really wanted to make a good impression! ``I considered ordering a cheongsam dress, but that felt too much like cultural appropriation,'' she said, as she looked at several sun dresses and put them back. ``No, too casual, and my biking leathers are way too butch.''

Mia laughed. ``Anything you would wear if you were going to the restaurant on your own for a meal would be fine. How about that red halter top, paired with a black skirt?''

Karen peeled out of her clothes, put on the halter, with no bra, and started looking for the right skirt. ``Leather, velvet, corduroy, or cloth?''

``The velvet one is nice. Don't worry too much about it, really!'' Mia insisted with a laugh.

===

When they went down to the restaurant, Karl was waiting for them at the side door closest to Karen's apartment. He gave his sister a thumbs up, and led them to the banquet room.

Karen waited by the banquet room door, pretending to be examining a carved wall decoration of a Chinese dragon, while actually peeking in through the glass panes of the doors to see Keep an eye on Mia, as she and Karl entered the room. She knew who most of the people were already, and the others were easy enough to guess. Mia's mother looked much like her daughter, though there was grey in her upswept hair. She sat in a chair beside Mia's father, who Karen had seen Mia greet on visits to the restaurant. Seated beside Mr and Mrs Chang was another older couple, who had to be Mr and Mrs Zhao, Mia's aunt and uncle. They were all in their late 50's. Standing behind their respective parents were Karl and Jung Chang, and Mei Lin and Rio Zhou - Mia's brothers and cousins. Mei Lin noticed Karen through the glass, and after a surprised look of recognition, she gave her a big smile and a friendly wink.

In the room, Mia stood before her family, and spoke. ``Thank you for taking time during your shift change to meet with me. I'll keep this brief, so you can get back to work, or can head home. I have some important news to share with all of you.''

``We always have time for you, daughter,'' her father said. ``Have you decided to resume your college studies? We can help with tuition, if that is delaying you.''

``Thank you, father. But I shall need a little more time before going back to college. Rest assured that I will, eventually, but that is not my news,'' Mia replied.

``You're not pregnant, surely?'' Her mother asked bluntly. ``Not that I would mind grandchildren, but getting a husband would be a better first step in raising a family.''

``Mother! The last Guy I dated was a Great Dane. If he got me pregnant, I'd have a belly like an elephant by now! I'm using birth control quite carefully, I assure you. Nor am I getting married to a guy you don't know. But you would at least be on the right track in thinking it has to do with a romantic development.'' She looked at Karen and nodded.

When the wolf girl entered the room, Mei Lin looked at her cousin, and then back to the wolf girl, and let out a stifled squeee of excitement, and covering her grinning mouth with one hand when Karen stood beside Mia, and Mia placed an arm around Karen's waist.

``I think most of you know Karen Bright, either as a frequent customer these last few weeks, or as my coworker at The Curiosity Shoppe. We are now dating each other, as romantic girlfriends. We are not getting engaged, nor are we rushing to share an apartment and live together. She understands what happened the last time I was engaged to be married, and we've agreed to a slow and cautious approach to our being a couple. I wanted you to hear it from me, first, that I am entering into an openly lesbian relationship. We don?t intend to hide it, nor will we deny it or make excuses for our behavior. Neither of us was looking for love from another woman. But that?s where we found it. I hope you will be happy for us, and that you will all soon get to know my girlfriend better.''

There was a silent pause while the obviously excited younger relatives deferred to their elders for a first reaction. Mia's father was the first to react. He stood, walked over to the couple, and stared sternly down into Karen's unblinking eyes for a moment. Then he smiled, ever so slightly, and asked, ``Miss Bright? Do you love my daughter? You have only been among us, what? Less than two weeks? I remember her mentioning your first day at work.''

Karen looked confidently back into his eyes, and said, ``Honored sir, yes, I think I do. I've never really been in love before. But being around Mia brings me great joy, and she feels similarly about being with me. We like and respect each other as friends, which is a solid basis for a romance. And we trust and support each other. If that isn't love, it certainly seems like a good foundation for a lasting romance. I promise never to hurt her.''

``Daughter? Does she speak your mind in this? Have you anything to add?'' Mr Chang asked.

``She says it more clearly than I would have, father. I agree with what she says,'' Mia replied. ``Mother? Do you want to say anything? I hope you will both accept our dating each other.''

Mrs Chang joined her husband. She was no taller than Karen, and looked the wolf girl in the eyes before asking, ``You have not always been a lesbian? Yet you want to date my daughter?''

``Honored lady, before I met Mia, I had only been on two real dates. One was with a girl, the other with a boy,'' Karen replied. ``I am a studious type, and dating has never been a priority for me. Most of my friends would call me a nerd, and I wouldn't deny it. Then I met Mia, and... it was such a joy, chatting with her. We share interests in gaming and in reading preferences. She's mature and thoughtful. And before I ever thought about her romantically, she swiftly became a good friend. When I cautiously confessed that I found her physically attractive, it made me very happy to hear she felt the same way about me. I want to spend more time with her, and get to know each other completely. My mom is bisexual, so it was pretty easy for me to accept that I was falling in love with another woman.''

``I see, and how old are you?'' Mrs Chang asked.

``Eighteen, ma'am. I'll be 19 in December. I know our age difference is pretty big, but it doesn't matter to us. I hope it won't matter to you,'' Karen replied. She was getting worried. Mia's dad seemed to like her, but her mom was an enigma.

``Hummm. And I had hoped to have grandchildren by now. Probably would have, if her fiance had stuck with her. But my sons don't seem very eager to become fathers.'' Mrs Chang commented, almost to herself.

``Ma'am? If we do stay together and get married, I wouldn't object to raising kids. We haven't discussed that yet, but there are options we could consider, when we are ready for that. Lots of lesbian couples have babies and raise kids,'' Karen offered. Mentally she was considering that one of her male forms could impregnate Mia, and that they could claim they had quietly arranged for a surrogate father.

``Very well. With or without grandchildren, you have my blessing. Make each other happy, my dear,'' Mrs Chang said.

``Ahem! Yes, and my blessing as well. We're happy to see that Mia has found someone to trust with her heart,'' Mr Chang added.

Mr and Mrs Zhao whispered to each other, then Mister Zhou said simply, ``Congratulations,'' and they both smiled politely.

``I knew it!'' Mei Lin shouted happily, as she rushed to embrace both Karen and Mia at once. ``I'm so happy for you both! When I saw Karen waiting outside, I just knew this had to be why she was there! You two kept denying you were a couple at game night on Sunday, but I could see the chemistry between you!''

``Ah! Thank you! But seriously, we only decided to start dating yesterday! So, we were telling the truth that night. I'll admit, I was already starting to feel attracted to her that night, but I hadn't confessed my feelings yet, nor did I think she felt that way about me. In fact, she told me, after everyone else left that night, that she had mostly been trying to keep Karl from trying to seduce me!''

``And it worked,'' Karl said, as he and Jung joined in the congratulatory hugs. ``I respected that my sister might have first dibs on Karen, even though they both admitted they were not really a couple. They may have thought they were fooling me, but now I see they just hadn't realized the truth of it themselves. I'm happy for you both, seriously.''

``As am I,'' Jung added. ``We'll both be happy to treat you as our sister.''

Each family member came up and welcomed Karen, then all but Mei Lin left, to resume their scheduled activities.

``Will you be staying for dinner before you go to work tonight? I'm on waitress duty. I can get you a table right away,'' Mei Lin offered, as they left the banquet room.

Karen paused for a moment, and then replied, ``We won't have time. We're leaving right now, to meet a friend.''

``Oh? Ok, well, have a nice night, you two! And congratulations again!'' Mei Lin replied, striding back toward the main door of the restaurant, to resume her duties.

Mia looked questiongly at her lover. ``I thought Keiko was going to meet us here?''

``Change of plans. Mistress Keiko just linked with me. Just trust us, and follow my lead,'' Karen replied.

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