Chapter One

Friday June 12th

JORDAN

I stepped onto the bustling sidewalk of the metropolis, the sun rays casting bright lights on the windows of the buildings. I was only ten steps into my trek towards the gym only eight blocks away, a small bead of sweat slowly fell to my brow. I quickly wiped it away. I didn't mind the heat from the early afternoon sun. It was better then being cooped up inside all day.

With my Air pods in each ear and the sounds of 'Enemy' by Imagine Dragons filling my ears, I continued my short journey. Before I made it to the end of the second block, my music was interrupted by a phone call.

Answering the call, I heard a screech of excitement through the phone. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!" My best friend Kennedy exclaimed, causing me to take out one of the ear buds. Damn this girl is fucking loud.

Kennedy's been my best friend since middle school. The feisty short haired blond and I have been as thick as thieves since the first day I stepped foot in what was then my new school. I hadn't even made it in the building when she came up to me wrapping one arm around my shoulder and saying that her and I were going to be best friends.

From that day forward it's been exactly as she predicted. Her certainty in that moment was something I could only admire, still do in fact. Which is why the blonds excitement didn't surprise me. "Thanks Kennedy." A smile practically reaching my eyes.

"So, how does it feel to finally be eighteen?" The blond evoking more pep than I could muster at the moment. Sometimes it took a few minutes for me to catch up with her.

"About the same as I felt yesterday. It's not like I magically feel like a different person." I couldn't help the solemn feeling inside me. Ever since I woke up this morning it really hasn't felt like my birthday.

One of the main reasons is I haven't seen my parents in two days, but that's understandable since they both have a multi-million dollar company to run. Deep down I know they didn't forget about me because they did make plans with me for this Sunday. And the other reason is I wish I could at least be with my friends.

"Well I know that." She replies in duh tone, freeing me from my somber thoughts. "What I mean is, are you excited to finally be considered an adult?"

"The only difference from yesterday and today is now I can vote if I wanted to. It's not like I can do a whole lot." I say in a matter of fact tone.

"Who the fucked pissed in your cereal this morning?"

"No one." Great, now I felt bad for bringing down the mood Kennedy was trying to create.

"Then why so glum chum?" Her voice free of malice, only concern.

"Nothing." I reply unconvincingly.

"Jordan!" The blonds voice coming out whiny. She knows I hate when people do that.

"It's nothing. Don't worry about it."

"Come on Jay, you can tell me." I knew she'd catch on to that. Sometimes it's difficult for me to mask my emotions when it comes to her. Kennedy knows me too well.

"Well honestly, I really miss you and Cole. I kinda wish you guys were here. Well mostly you, no offense to Cole or anything. I know he has Football camp to worry about." Cole is another one of my best friends. Who just so happens to be one of best wide receivers in the state. That guy practically eat, sleeps, and breathes football.

It's actually rather amusing when he and Kennedy get together. You wouldn't think a 6'4" jock would be that into the schools gossip and one of the first ones to suggest to our group we should go shopping. I swear, there's a gay just dying to come out.

He's not though. It's just funny because he's tall and built athletically with short dark blond hair styled in a pompadour.

"Yeah I know what you mean. I miss you guys too. I wish I could be there for your birthday." I could hear the sadness in her voice.

"It's alright though. I know it's your family's annual vacation."

A short comfortable silence fell over the conversation. "Ooohh! I know!!" The blond exclaimed, once again causing me to take out an ear bud. "Why don't I fly out as soon as I'm done here. I wouldn't even need to pack." A huge grin splayed across my face. I don't even know why I didn't think of it.

Then I thought about her strict parents. "Are you sure you wouldn't want to go home first? I mean, what about your parents?"

"I'm pretty sure Carolyn and Mark Rowlands would get along just fine without me. Besides, it's not like they'll really care as long as I'm with you. Seeing as to how they think you're the responsible one and all. To them you'll just be keeping me out of trouble." I guess that much was true.

Carolyn and Mark have always taken a liking to me. It just goes to show it goes a long way to be polite.

"It's a tough job but someone has to do it." I could feel the mood lightening a little.

"You know what, I don't care if it is your birthday. Fuck you!"

"Awe, I'm sorry baby. Do you need me to kiss your emotional boo boo?' I said mockingly.

"Yes. You hurted my feelers." She countered with a whiny baby voice. I made kissy noises over the phone. Getting strange looks from the people I was walking passed, finally making it to my destination.

Crossing the threshold of the gym, I told Kennedy I needed to go because I was going to do my daily routine of working out.

An added pep to my step after talking to the blond, now I couldn't wait for her come to out the second weekend of July.

My attention now fully aware of my surroundings. I've been to this gym a handful of times before. It was new and had modern fixtures on the walls and ceiling. The light grey painted walls accentuating the feel of the grand entrance, the black hardwood flooring brought out the hipster vibe that's become popular in recent years.

There were people going about what I would imagine was their normal gym routine. I took notice of a couple standing in front of me at the front desk, checking themselves in. As I waited patiently for someone to call me over, I let my gaze wonder a bit to continue to observe the atmosphere. A couple made their way up the staircase that was just ahead and off to the left that led up to the walking track.

Just beyond the staircase was a long glass wall, that showcased the gym's equipment room. To my right was the locker rooms, right then, a bald tattooed muscular man came walking through the locker room door. Making his way towards the equipment room no doubt.

Making fast work to change into my gym clothes. In my haste to pack, I realized I didn't bring a muscle tank. Which was fine, my black sports bra would suit me all the same. I put on my white Nike basketball shorts and matching cross trainers then went out to the track upstairs.

Doing my usual routine. I had just finished running three miles on the inside track and went to the water cooler. While I was there trying to figure out what exercise I wanted to work on next, I decided to do a little bit of weight training and maybe, if I were up to it afterwards some calisthenics.

Mentally pumping myself up, I made my way to the weight area. When I rounded one of the tech weights, I collided into a soft well-toned body. Instinctively, grabbing her by the waist to steady her, pulling her closer to me so she wouldn't fall backwards. The scent of lavender and lilies permeated my senses, briefly closing my eyes to inhale the smell, my imagination sweeping me to a meadow.

Where flowers of all kinds were in abundance, the sky the brightest of blues I could imagine, the grass the most vivid of greens I have ever seen. Movement awakening me from my brief imaginative musings. I was about to apologize for my lack of awareness, but once I caught a glimpse of the person whose waist I was holding, I was met with the most mesmerizing emerald orbs I ever had the pleasure to look into. That I simply couldn't look away.

Realizing that I might have been staring longer than was customary and not wanting to come off as creepy, I opened my mouth to speak, but she beat me to it. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention." Her voice was like velvet to my ears, soft and melonic.

I furrowed my brows, genuinely concerned that I might have hurt her. Immediately feeling terrible thinking the worst, which may seem like an over-reaction, and you could be right. But for me, in this moment of seeing the most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on, it wasn't.

"No, no, it's my fault. I wasn't watching where I was going. I'm sorry. Are you alright?" Reluctantly removing a hand from her waist, touching her arm in an attempt to comfort her. Instantly feeling a strong tingle of electricity run up my arm and throughout my entire body, the force sent little shock waves I never felt before.

How I managed to keep my composure is beyond me. Gazing into her beautiful emerald eyes, I knew I could get lost in them if given the chance. I couldn't help the smile that splayed across my face, then I remembered the question I had asked.

"Yes, I'm fine thank you. Just slightly embarrassed is all." She replied honestly, glancing down sheepishly.

"I'm the one that should be embarrassed. I'm so sorry." I said as I lowered myself to catch a glimpse of her emerald eyes again. Then I realized that I still had a hand on her waist, hastily putting my hands at my sides. Although, it felt like she fit me perfectly, even if it was just my hands at her waist.

"Don't worry about it. I'll be fine." She replied dismissively.

"Ok, good. See you around. That is if we both watch where we're going." She giggled at my poor attempt at a joke, it was sweet really. Mainly because I never considered myself funny, I was always sarcastic. Something about this woman made me feel otherwise, her smile made me smile my toothy grin. Suddenly feeling a bit nervous and more than a little aroused by everything about her, I knew it was time to take me leave. She must have sensed the same thing as she stepped aside.

I stepped where she created space. "Yeah, no kidding." I heard her say as I walked past her. As I casually walked to the free weights I was mentally kicking myself for not getting her name. I'm such an idiot. A beautiful woman and you can't even work up the courage to do something so simple. I'm fucking pathetic.

Probably best not to dwell on it too long, chances are we'll probably never see each other again. And that thought alone was enough to make me mentally groan for my lack of courage. It's a good thing weightlifting is always a good way for me to clear my head. I had to focus on something else. Which I was finding out was a lot harder than it seemed after seeing such a gorgeous woman.

A few times during my free weightlifting routine, a few females came up to me asking for my opinion on random work out advice. And let's just say, anyone who's had PE in high school would know them. However, I still managed to be polite and give said advice. Then continued while my mind would drift back to the beautiful goddess I had seen earlier.

Noticing movement from the corner of my eye, a certain woman who's been on my mind is using one of the tech weights. Everything about her screamed Egyptian, a goddess through and through. From her long dark brown flowing locks to her natural sun-kissed complexion, her voluptuous curves that could bring any man or woman to their knees if she demanded. One of her most captivating visual qualities, her hypnotic emerald eyes.

It was hard to concentrate as I took chances sneaking a glance here and there. This time she happened to be stretching her muscles. Her curvaceous backside making a certain part of my anatomy tighten. And for those of you who don't know, I was born with an extra appendage between my legs. I am what the Japanese refer to as a futanari. Born with both female and male genitals.

I am not ashamed of who I am. In fact, I decided long ago to embrace it. If others can't accept who I am then I don't see the point in associating with them. Luckily for me, none of my fellow classmates have ever felt the need to tease or bully me for it. Mainly because Kennedy would do everything in her power to protect me from it.

Not that I needed her protection. I am fully capable of taking care of myself. When I was eight my father insisted I learn how to defend myself. So, he hired the best trainers to teach me the arts of Muay Thai, Jujitsu, Taekwondo, Jeet Kune Do, and Capoeira. Thankfully I've never used them and hope I don't have to outside a ring.

If ever a time was present to talk to a woman, that opportunity has definitely presented itself now. With any luck and depending if everything went well, I could hopefully get her number or at the very least, a name to go with the gorgeous face.

As I neared the machine that she was using, she just finished with her stretches and sat back down. I adjusted the weights to what I thought was a bearable setting, it wasn't for a novice, that's for sure. I took a seat in the leg lift machine that was next to hers. By this time the butterflies were creating chaos in my stomach. I'm usually never this nervous, least of all at a loss for words. I wanted to be clever and witty, but nothing came to mind.

Too caught up in my own thoughts and lack of clever introduction as I started mindlessly lifting, I heard her melodic voice, "That's very impressive." She commented, nodding towards the weights. I was a little caught off guard by the comment, my mind working extra hard to form proper sentences or even just words. "I wish I could lift that much. How long have you been working out?"

"Since I was about thirteen. So not that long." Great, now she's going to think I'm boasting or trying to really impress her. I'm such an idiot.

The air around us was silent, once again, I tried to think of something to say. Seriously, why was it so hard for me to talk to this woman? "Such determination for someone so young." She remarked breaking the silence to which I felt like I was making it awkward.

How does someone respond to a remark like that. Yet, I felt comfortable enough to tell her the truth. "Well, to be honest, it wasn't something that I wanted to do when I was younger. It was kind of, forced on me. Not in a bad way. It's just that my dad –" I hesitated, only because I didn't know how I was going to answer truthfully. If I revealed too much, it might put her off.

"I don't mean to pry." She said sheepishly, most likely taking my silence as me being offended. "It's just that I'm interested, I've always found genuine people fascinating." By the look on her face I knew she was being genuine.

"Well, first of all thanks for that." I said smiling at her, it was a nice compliment.

"Well, it's true." She stated while returning the smile.

Taking a moment to actually think of how to word things correctly, without trying to come off as pretentious. "If I'm going to be honest, due to certain complications, my dad wanted me to learn how to defend myself. I actually started by learning different techniques of martial arts. Once I started to actually take it seriously, I just fell in love with it. All of it." I figured sticking to the truth would help, albeit leaving out certain details. I didn't want to scare her off. Who knows how she might react to my "complication".

However, thinking about how I came to love each sport does bring a smile to my face. Back then, my dad didn't miss a practice or a tournament. He would even train with me in the backyard or at the gym. Things have certainly changed after he and mom got the business to where it is. A lot of late hours and me spending most of my time either at school or at the gym with one of my trainers, Dylan.

"That's really interesting. I mean, it's wonderful that you found something that you thoroughly enjoy. I don't see that that often in younger people now days. How old are you? If you don't mind my asking." An angelic voice asked breaking me free of my reverie.

I could lie and say I'm 19 or 20, but the thing about lies is, somehow they always come out in the wash. So to speak. "I'm 18. Just turned today as a matter of fact. I'm actually going to be a senior in high school this fall." I admitted. I could tell by the semi surprised look on her face that I probably killed any chance I ever thought I had at getting her number.

"Oh wow, happy birthday!" She said in what I'm guessing was an attempt to hide her initial reaction. "Honestly, I would have guessed you were at least 19 or 20 at the most." She confirmed my previous thoughts. People would often comment on my age, thinking I was older than I actually am.

"I get that a lot. I think it has to do with a person's eyes."

"Or maybe you're just an old soul."

"Truthfully I think it derives from the fact I had to grow up at an early age. I don't regret it or anything. I wouldn't change it for the world because it made me part of who I am." Why the hell did I just say all of that? I'm hardly ever this open to anyone when I first meet them, I'm usually more reserved than this. At least until I have a better idea of who people are.

"That's a good way of looking at it." She stated, instantly feeling lighter that this beautiful woman appreciated the way I view certain things in life. Taking another glance in her direction, I seen a look of realization cross her features. "Oh, I'm sorry. Where are my manners? My name is Sydney. Sydney Vaughn." She extended her hand.

As soon as I put my hand in hers, I felt another tingling bolt of electricity shoot up arm and ripple throughout my body. "Jordan Hawkins. Nice to meet you." I replied quickly trying to recover. We shook hands for longer than was considered necessary, I honestly didn't want to let go of her. There was something about this woman that was drawing me closer to her.

"So, do you have any special plans for your birthday?" Her expression genuinely curious.

"No. My parents are busy with work. Not that I mind, we made plans to celebrating this Sunday. For now, it's just me and take out for the night." Seriously, what is up with me going into detail.

"Oh, well that's too bad. At least you have Sunday to look forward to." The Egyptian goddess' emerald eyes shone brighter. I didn't even think they could get even more hypnotic. I was suddenly overwhelmed by the thought and a small sliver of hope that I could be the one to make her eyes cast such beauty.

"Yeah, I'm sure it will be great." I answer lamely.

"Well, Jordan Hawkins, it was lovely to meet you as well. But I really must be going. I hope you enjoy the rest of your workout. And have a happy birthday." It wasn't difficult to discern a slight hesitation in the Egyptian Goddess' demeanor as she spoke the last part. Shortly after a thoughtful look displayed across her features.

Then all too soon she vacated the workout room. Leaving me utterly speechless as I sat there feeling the failure, my pride too great to lie. I was doomed the moment I told her my age. But I refuse to start anything with anyone with a lie. It wouldn't be fair to the other person.

Well, at least I got her name. That is something I said I was going to try to do. I had no choice but to let it go now. I did another repetition then went over to the water fountain and took a drink. I think I'm done for the day. I didn't want to be too sore tomorrow and I was starting to feel a little hungry.

I went to the locker room, going down the aisle where I left my belongings. After grabbing my shower kit bag I put it in one of shower stalls. Realizing that I forgot my towel I quickly made my way back to my locker. Right where I left it, on the bench. I slung it over my shoulder. I rounded the corner, bumping into a soft feminine body for the second time today.

Once again, steadying the person while placing one hand on their waist and other on the small of their back, this was done out of pure instinct. I wasn't trying to overstep my bounds or social protocol.

Drawing my gaze down and seeing those piercing emerald eyes staring into my own. Sydney's angelic smile caused the butterflies to flutter chaotically. "We really need to stop meeting like this." I commented. I didn't mean for my voice to sound so low and husky. Then I realized the cliché comment I made. I'm seriously an idiot I thought as I mentally facepalmed myself.

Suddenly I was now hyper aware of where my hands were. I'd be lying if I said I didn't like where my hands automatically seemed to go. She felt so nice, soft and delicate. I forced myself not to explore her further, I could feel the heat emanating between us. A certain part of my anatomy becoming firm. Reluctantly pulling myself away from her.

"I could get used to this." I could see a slight flush of the cheeks as she uttered the words. But I hardly noticed, it was the sound of her sultry voice that caught my attention.

"The feelings mutual." Replying with the first thing that came to mind adding a slight grin and a wink, then stepped around her walking in the direction of the showers.

I couldn't believe I had just done that. I'm not one to overly flirt with someone, well, to be perfectly honest, I never really had to. Women just seemed to naturally come to me, I don't know why. I never thought of myself as a huge prize or worthy of such attention.

I didn't abuse or take advantage of it either. I'm not trying to say that I'm a saint, Lord knows I'm not. I've had my fair share of one night stands and short term relationships. And looking back on it, not once did I initiate any of them. However, in each of them I had an abundant amount of respect for all of the women I've ever been with. All I'm saying is, flirting openly is new territory for me.

When I was done with my shower I went back to my locker and started to get dressed. Slipping on my boxers and sports bra, then my breathable white cotton slacks. When I put my belt through the loops it I felt a pair of eyes on me. I've grown accustomed to the attention, yet this time it felt different. This time I felt the butterflies swarm, the strong sexual tension in the air.

At first I thought it was just wishful thinking, like if I thought about it long and hard enough I could conjure up who it I hoped it was. I didn't dare sneak a glance. I didn't want to take the chance to be disappointed, so I continued with the task at hand. Then that's when I heard clothes rustling in a bag. Temptation got the best of me, I snuck a glance and was pleasantly surprised to see Sydney.

I was mesmerized by her standing in just a matching yellow laced panties and bra set. Even with just a glance her curvaceous figure would be etched into my memory for years to come. The bright color making her caramel complexion even more prominent. She was a sight to behold, a gift from the Egyptian gods and goddesses. No. She was a goddess incarnate, she had to be. There was no other explanation as to why a woman this immaculate could be anything but.

My arousal now on high alert, I turned my head the other way as quickly as I could. I needed to concentrate on getting dressed, while at the same time try to coax my little head to retreat and not make itself known. I prayed silently for it to go down, even half erect it was noticeable. Fuck. This is going to be so embarrassing if I were to sport some serious wood in front of this goddess.

Thankfully my go to thought did exactly what I needed it to as I put on my white tank top. Then quickly slipped on my comfortable black loafers, then pulling on my light grey short-sleeved dress shirt.

After gathering my things and placing them in my bag, I turned around and seen Sydney. Black capris, a yellow low-cut halter top with black sandals. She had her bag on her shoulders and was about to leave. I could feel my stomach churn and a small tightening in my heart, knowing that this could be the last time I would ever see her again.

And before my mind could fully process it, I spoke, "Sydney?" She turned around at the sound of my voice giving me a questioning look. Which I took as my que to say something. "I know this is a long shot-" I was about to ask her out when she interrupted me.

"Jordan? Would you like to go on a date with me?" To say I was shocked would be a major understatement. I hadn't expected her to ask. "I can't stand the thought of you spending your birthday alone." So that was the only reason why she asked me out? She felt sorry for me? My heart sank in my chest at this revelation.

"Not that that's the only reason, or the real reason, not in the slightest. I do want to get to know you further." By now I knew she was rambling because she was nervous in the most endearing way.

It felt like hours passed which in reality it was probably only a few seconds. "I can't think of any other way I would want to spend my birthday than getting to know a beautiful woman." Sydney's face lit up as soon as the words passed my lips. I only wished she would have let me ask her instead, then again, how can I be angry when a gorgeous woman, a goddess no less, asked me out.

I escorted her outside while at the same time we exchanged numbers. She suggested that we meet at the restaurant, but I told her my mother wouldn't approve of me letting a lady arrive at an establishment alone and neither would I. With a flush of her cheeks and bright smile she accepted my courtesies. She agreed to me picking her up at seven. By the time we stepped out onto bustling sidewalk my heart was beating fast in the excitement of being able to take out such a gorgeous woman. We said our good-byes then walked in opposite directions.

As I made the short trek home, the prospect of greater things to come made me smile like a fool.