----- Friday

Did I make a wrong decision in taking responsibility for Zoe's care? Am I doing the right thing? Unfortunately, it was too late to change anything now. I would have to make it good, whatever the future would bring. Zoe was now going to be a part of my life, and Julie's too. I was really scared of what Julie would think. I would have to call her. She was a couple hours ahead so if I waited until four o'clock here I could catch her at home on the phone and that's what I was going to do. Better to have her prepared for what was coming.

"So, we get to meet Zoe tonight?" Kaycee said.

"Yep."

"Zoe, the lesbian."

"Yes, that's right, Kaycee: she's a lesbian. And thanks for helping me out with her tonight."

"It's no problem. Before she gets here ..."

"Yes?"

"This will be the last chance we have to make love."

I kissed her. "That's right. Do you want to wake up Bonnie?"

"No. Just us."

"Good. I would rather that too."

I wasn't sure if it would be the very last time ever that we'd make love, but it very well could be and probably would be. That made it all a bit sad. We both realized this and took our time making love. Kaycee wasn't very talkative after. I had to initiate the conversation.

"So, any questions?"

"About what?"

"About Wednesday. I didn't tell you much."

"No, you didn't."

"Surprised?"

"Oh yeah."

"Me too. I visited Samantha's mother and father. Did you know she was an only child?"

"No. I don't know her."

"Yeah, well, she played video games."

"A lot of people do."

"Oh shit, I didn't mean video games, I meant computer games."

"Ok, so?"

"Do you ever play computer games?"

"No, I don't."

"Neither do I, but Samantha and Zoe did. They play online with people from around the world. They all have handles. You know, pseudonyms."

"I know."

"They make online friends. And, I guess like all friends, they join up into cliques."

"I can believe that."

"They form together to play the games and become close. At least as close as anyone can get online. They play groups against groups. One of my pals in high school met a friend playing games online. They became such good friends that when they graduated from high school he went to see his online pal for real. They're still good friends to this day. At least they were the last time I spoke to him."

"Why are you telling me this?"

"It was someone in one of Samantha and Zoe's group that dared Samantha to give me the virus."

"Real nice friend there."

"Right. The thing is, they knew me."

"Who?"

"The one who dared Samantha. They asked her to seek me out at school. When they heard that Zoe went to the same school they asked her to help Samantha find me. I was targeted, Kaycee. And I fell for Samantha. I fell for her ruse like a ton of bricks."

"So, who was it?"

"Nobody knows, only that their handle is darknose14."

"I wish they knew who it was."

"Me too."

"Sorry you had to bring that up."

"It's ok. You have your stories about how you caught the virus, I'm sure. I figured you wouldn't want to talk about it because if you did then you would have already."

"It was another guy. I know for sure who it was. I met him not too long after you had graduated. I'm sure you wouldn't want to hear about it."

"It's ok, if you want to, I'll listen."

"No. I'm don't really want to talk about it."

"Fair enough. But I think my story is a bit unique. Don't you think so too?"

"Yes. Although, I wouldn't put it past someone else to try to hurt someone by giving them the virus on purpose."

"But the thing is you don't know you have the virus until you start shrinking. By then, you're not contagious."

"They have a test."

"Yeah, now they do. They didn't back then."

"That's why so many people began shrinking. The people that don't have it are always suspicious of each other now. But it's also why the people with the virus are so promiscuous; they already have it and know they can't give to anyone anymore."

"That and the meds. I'm sure that has a lot to do with the promiscuity."

"Oh yes it does."

"Meh, I don't mind."

"Of course not; you're a guy. I wouldn't mind so much if you were here."

"I wish I could be. I'm serious about you coming to see me."

"Will you come back here some day?"

"To Arizona? There's a good possibility I will."

"You'll come see me if you do?"

"You can count on it. Don't be sad though. You might find someone -- you know that, right? Someone who'll be just right for you."

"Maybe. And maybe they'll find a cure for Borgford's disease. And maybe little green aliens from outer space will land and bring world peace."

"Or eat us."

"That might be better."

"It's not all bad. We're still alive."

"If you say so."

"I do say so."

It wasn't a very happy conversation but there was something else I needed to tell her.

"Oh, before I forget: I'm going to send you some software when I get back home."

"Software? Okay."

"It's for your phone. I'll have to send it to you encrypted, ok?"

"Ok."

"I'll give you directions on how to decrypt it and install it."

"What does it do?"

"It will wipe the pictures from your phone. Really wipe them. You can't do that normally."

"Oh, ok. I know what picture you want me to wipe."

"I know you do. Now don't tell anyone about this."

"Alright. Why?"

"Because it's not supposed to get out."

"Where did you get it?"

"I wrote it."

"Ooo. That's cool."

"Yeah, ok. I'll tell Bonnie about it to ease her mind, but neither of you can discuss it, even amongst yourselves. Promise?"

"Ok, I promise."

"Good girl. I'll have to leave before noon today so I can get back by this evening. You know that will be the third trip I've made to Flagstaff in as many days. It's getting old. I'm glad this will be the last time."

"Would you like me to come with you?"

"You'd have to miss work. I can't ask that."

"I'd come if you want me to."

"No, Kaycee. I'll be fine. I still need a little more time to myself to clear my head and figure things out. This will give me that time."

"Ok. I'll still see you tonight, right?"

"Absolutely."

"I'll come see you off at the airport Saturday."

"Sure. That would be great."

"Ok. I guess I need to get ready."

"Can we shower together?"

"You better share with me, mister, or else."

So, we cleaned up, ate some danishes for breakfast and Kaycee was off to work. I stuck around a little longer for Bonnie to wake up. I watched her saunter out of her bedroom.

"Aw, you're dressed." she said.

"So are you."

"I'm only wearing panties."

"Yep. You're wearing something."

"I guess being flat-chested doesn't count when I'm topless."

"Oh, it does. Stay like that for me."

"Will you undress for me?"

"If you really want me to."

"I do. There's something else I want."

"Gee. I wonder what that could be?"

"Oh, hush. This will be your last day."

"I know. So, what would you like, my dear? The usual?"

"Ha, ha." she laughed. "That sounds funny."

"What does? The usual?"

"Yes. Now take off your clothes."

"Yes, ma'am."

"Come here."

She picked me up and kissed me.

"You know, you're very light."

"Yeah. Thanks for the compliment." I said sarcastically.

"Don't get upset. I'm not criticizing you."

"I know. I'm just sensitive about that."

"You're cute."

"There you go again."

"Ok. You're handsome. Better?"

"Sure. You're cute too. Is it ok to say that?"

"Yep. Now I do want something different today, not the usual."

"Okay."

"But you have to promise not to tell anyone. Not Hal. Not Kaycee."

"I promise."

"Good."

She brought me over to the couch and sat me down. Then she slowly removed her panties. I gulped at the sight of her standing nude in front of me.

"Lay down on your back." she commanded. I complied.

She straddled me and grabbed Mr. Happy.

"I started the pill a few days ago so we'll be fine." she assured me.

"Then you're sure about this?"

"Very sure." she answered right before inserting Mr. Happy into her own Miss Happy love tunnel. She bounced up and down and did all the work. I basically laid there while she got more and more into it. I reached for her boobs but unfortunately they were too far above me. Her eyes were closed. I just grabbed her hips then matched her rhythm. We came together then she collapsed.

Now my face was right into her chest, or rather her chest was on my face pinning me down. I kissed her nipples as she lay on top of me. She wasn't the biggest gal I've met, that's for sure, but she was still huge to me. I guess I had come to terms with the size thing and was actually turned on by it. I began to wonder: what if I did shrink to nineteen inches tall? What if I shrank down to six inches? Well I guess then Bonnie's boobs would truly be big to me -- an interesting thought. But then Julie's boobs would be the size of a bedroom. Holy shit!

After a while Bonnie got up. It wasn't long enough.

"Thanks, Sam."

"You're thanking me? Thank you!"

"Tee hee." she giggled. "Can you play another song for me?"

"How about tonight? I'm bringing Zoe over. Can you wait until then?"

"Sure."

"I'll keep this a secret, but now I have a secret for you."

"Ok, what?"

I told her about the software I was going to send to Kaycee. She was happy about that.

"Alright," I said, "I have a few things to do today before getting Zoe so I'll have to leave soon."

"Ok, Sam. I'll see you tonight."


----- Later that morning

I went to the school -- admin building, room 208. I asked for Donny. After a short wait he came out to see me.

"Hey, do you have a minute?" I asked.

"Sure. Let's go down the hall."

"So, I saw Zoe."

"And?"

"Uh, she said, in no uncertain terms, that she doesn't want to see Marlene."

"I was afraid of that."

"I think there's a big political divide between them."

"You're right. Well, I tried. I'll tell Marlene. But please tell Zoe that we miss her and wish the best for her. So, is she still at the address I gave you?"

"Yes. For now. She'll be moving soon though, I suspect."

"Do you know where?"

"I'll tell her to forward the new address to you. Would that be ok?"

"Sure."

"But I wouldn't expect it if were you. I'm thinking she's not keen on giving her address to Marlene."

"Oh. Ok."

"I'm really sorry, Donny. But Zoe was adamant about the whole thing. I don't know what happened between them, but I don't want to get in between that."

"I understand. And thanks."

"No problem. Thank you for giving me her address to begin with."

"Yeah. I wish she would just come talk to us."

"Well, I told you I don't want to get in between. So, you take care."

"Alright. See you around, maybe?"

"Maybe. See you."

So that was taken care of. There was one last person I needed to see. I drove to the other part of town and parked in front of a nondescript house. I walked to the back and went down a half flight of steps to the back door and knocked; an old man answered.

"Ah, the prodigal son returns."

"Good morning, Master Soo."

"Come in. We are expecting you."

"I see you've been talking with Gabe then."

"I no need talk to Gabe to know you come."

"Then how did you know?"

"I talk to Gabe. Now sit. Meditate."

"Yes, Sensei."

I took off my shoes and found my usual spot where I knelt down. Even though Master Soo had said 'WE are expecting' there was nobody else there. That's just the way he talked. I spent a few minutes with my eyes closed, breathing steadily, and meditating. Then he clapped his hands.

"Now, my son, tell me about your problem."

"What problem?"

"The problem that brought you here."

"Well, it's not a really a problem anymore. I've found out pretty much all I wanted to."

"Then tell me of this quest."

"What quest?"

"Your quest for knowledge."

"Oh boy did I get some knowledge."

"Then it go well?"

"I don't know. Sometimes you really need to know something and that if you just figured it out then everything will be alright. But then you find out and it's not. In fact, it turns out I was better not knowing."

"Ah, Zen."

"Zen?"

"Enlightenment, my son."

"Yeah, um, that was not enlightenment."

"You claim knowing enlightenment?"

"Well I know you're better off enlightened, and what I found out was not enlightenment."

"So, master," he said sarcastically, "how you come to know enlightenment make you better?"

"That's what I'm here for -- for enlightenment that will make us better."

"Are you better?"

"I don't feel better."

"Then how you expect Zen make you better with enlightenment?"

"It's different. Just finding something out is not enlightenment."

"Is that not definition of enlightenment?"

"No."

"Then what is?"

"I don't know. It's learning the great mysteries of the universe. Isn't it?"

"Before you found your knowledge, was it mystery?"

"Yes."

"And is not trivial day to day workings of human life part of workings of universe?"

"I suppose so."

"Then your newfound knowledge, is it not a learning of mysteries of universe?"

"Sure, when you put it that way, but Zen is about something more significant."

"No, my son. Zen is about insignificant."

"Uh, ok."

As usual, he wasn't making sense. But I felt better. Didn't I? No, I didn't. My face contorted. Master Soo laughed.

"Did you think Zen solve all of life problem for you?"

"No. But I at least expected to, I don't know, be a little happier."

"My son, Zen not bring happiness through enlightenment. Happiness come from acceptance and from others when we give them chance. Knowing oftentime make us that much more miserable."

"Oh. I see."

"No, you don't. But you will. Did not Buddha die?"

"Yes." I said wrinkling my eyebrows in a confused look.

"Do you expect Zen give you eternal life?"

"No."

"Then you live right now. After life there be nothing for you."

"Gee, thanks."

"See? Knowing doesn't always make you feel better."

"No, I guess not."

"So live. Now get up and start your calisthenics. Where is your uniform?"

"I didn't bring it."

"You forgot uniform? Typical American. Drop and give me twenty."

"Yes, master."

I did as ordered, doing twenty push ups. He loved that American phrase. I figured we would just talk the whole time, but he made me do more calisthenics until I had built up a sweat.

"How do you feel now?"

"Better, I guess."

"You guess nothing. You no need enlightenment to feel better. Ready yourself." he said right before striking at me. I moved aside without thinking and parried his arm and as it went by I grabbed him by the triceps and applied a nerve pinch.

"Ah, very good. But you no reach very well now. No?"

"No." I said rolling my eyes.

"Then grab here." he said pinching me under my ribs. I could feel how that might hurt but Master Soo was gentle, yet very firm to get the point across.

We spent time practicing, Master Soo modifying my technique to suit my new stature.

"You different now. Your technique need different."

"Right. That makes sense."

"You no stay in Arizona?"

"I have to get back home, Sensei."

"I give you contact of friend. He will take over your teachings."

"Master Soo, I'm pretty busy lately. I don't have time for teachings."

"Nonsense. You continue training. Training never stop."

I had to agree and he wrote down an address and a name simply as "Chung". I took it and left. I had a pretty rough workout yet I felt refreshed. I also had lots of things to think about on my drive up to Flagstaff. I always did after a class with Master Soo. Now I had a full six or more hours on the road to think about it. I was on the road to Flagstaff before one o'clock again; that would put arrival by four o'clock.

When I got there I parked in the apartment lot and called Julie telling her what was going on. I told her we'd be getting a visit from a tractor trailer next week and that I would be bringing a friend to stay with us. I couldn't read how she felt about that from her voice but we'd confront that later. I also had her warn Cindy that she'd have a roommate. I gave her the new flight number and arrival time and told her I loved her. Then it was time.


----- Zoe

"Ready to go, Zoe?"

"Let me get my stuff."

"I'll get it for you."

"You can take those two bags. I'm carrying this one."

"What's in there?"

"My laptop. I have two desktops in boxes that are on the truck now."

"Two? I guess two is better than one."

"One was Sam's."

"Oh. I see they cleaned the place pretty good."

"They were here by eight this morning, by nine thirty the truck was pulling out. They were fast."

"Professionals."

"They certainly were. I guess I'm ready to start my new life."

"I know this is hard. I wish I could say it's going to be a piece of cake but we both know that's not going to happen. Just, if I do something wrong let me know."

"I trust you. I'll try, Sam. I'm sure we can make this work."

"That's the old college spirit."

"College spirit, huh? Funny phrase."

"I know. It's just a phrase. I'm not really sure what it's supposed to mean. I'm guessing that college used to be a noble thing."

"Well, that's a good one."

"Hmmpf. Yeah, you're right."

"Let's get going, Sam. The sooner I'm outta here, the better."

She was eager. I didn't expect that but I was glad because it would be worse if she wasn't. We did have lots of good talk on the way to Kaycee's.

"So, I talked to Donny this morning. I told him you didn't want to see Marlene."

"That's right."

"If you don't mind me asking, what happened there?"

"With Marlene? I told you she was an abortion advocate?"

"Yes. And you're not."

"No, I'm not."

"How did you two get into that? You were just talking one day and had a violent dissagreement?"

"Kind of. We fought. I mean we fought a real fist fight. Or in our case, a slap fight."

"Who won?"

"Nobody. We both got suspended from school."

"That seems a silly thing to fight over."

"It wasn't just about that. It was about Sam."

"Oh?"

"Look Sam, this is not something I really want to talk about."

"That's fine. I won't ask."

"But you're involved."

"I am?"

"Sam was pregnant."

"With my child. I know."

"You knew?"

"Her dad told me. He thought I knew. I didn't, but I didn't let on that I didn't know."

"Oh, well, what else did he tell you?"

"That she got an abortion."

"Did he tell you why?"

"He said it was her decision but that it was for the best."

"Do you think it was for the best?"

"I don't know, Zoe. This is the thing I've been trying not to think about. I mean, I could have been a father. Do you know what that's like? Me, a dad. I'm finding it hard to come to grips with that and maybe it was the best thing. I just don't know."

"Good to have those doubts. I tried to talk her out of it, but Marlene had her ear. I hate her for that."

"You wanted Sam to have the baby?"

"Yes. I so wanted that so so much."

"You must feel strongly about abortion."

"I do but it was something even more base than that."

"What?"

"I wanted to have a child, Sam. What do you think of that? What do you think of lesbians raising your child?"

"I don't know. I'm thinking I probably would not have ever known him or her so no big deal."

"I'm a lesbian, Sam. You know what that means?"

"That you'll never have a child to raise?"

"Bingo. Not as a lesbian couple, unless you adopt. You're pretty smart. For a guy."

"Yeah, they tell me that. Sorry to disappoint."

"No problemo. Did you think being a lesbian means not having any maternal instinct?"

"I've never thought about the subject, Zoe."

"Well, I want kids. I thought Sam wanted kids. I know she did. And Marlene poisoned her. She committed suicide because of what Marlene made her do."

"She made her do that?"

"She convinced Sam it was the right thing to do. That's what she does: she convinces girls to to that sort of thing. And just as I knew she would, Sam had regrets afterward. Big regrets."

"Sammy didn't mention that in her suicide note."

"There was so many things she didn't mention."

"It was a short note. And thanks."

"Thanks for what?"

"You would have raised my child, Zoe. Do you know what that means? You wanted my child and you wanted to raise her or him. That's real love. I appreciate that you would do something like that for a child that wasn't your own blood. A child that was mine. And you fought for it too."

"Like you said though, you would have never known."

"Sometimes the truth will just make you miserable. But sometimes it doesn't. I'm grateful that you told me. I'm happy about that news, that someone cared, even though the outcome wasn't so great."

"See? You are against abortion."

"Maybe I am. I try to stay out of political discussions. I told you that."

"And I told you it's a losing cause."

"I shudder to think of the ramifications. Oh my God, I'll be labeled one way or another."

"We all are. You'll have to take a side and be brave."

"Sounds hard."

"You'll find out eventually. But I don't see this as a political subject."

"Then what? A religious one?"

"No. I'm just pragmatic. I don't like the idea of snuffing out a life about to begin, before it's ever started, before it's ever been given a chance."

"I don't know. Sounds religious."

"Maybe spiritual. They're two different things."

"I never thought of that either. You sound like you know it all."

"I just know you can't escape politics."

"I hope you're wrong."

"I wish I were."

"How did you get to be so smart and wise? For a girl, that is."

"I'm older than I look. Sorry to disappoint."

"Touche. You look like a teenager. I know you're not."

"The more we shrink the younger we look. And it's not due to being the size of a kid. How old do you think I am? Really?"

"Um, I'd say twenty-six, although I still think you look like fourteen or fifteen."

"Well, thank you. I'm thirty three."

"Holy cow! You're that old?"

"Yep. You don't look a day over seventeen yourself. Or now that you mention it, you could pass for fourteen or fifteen too. We must look like high school kids. Seriously, if I were working at a liquor store I'd card you. And then I would think you had a fake ID."

"Good to know. When Cindy and I boarded the plane coming out here last week the airport people thought we were minors."

"Cindy? Is she the one you mentioned?"

"That's her. She went to Drumford; came out here with me to meet some old friends this week but had to go back home early for work. She couldn't get a whole week off."

"What does she do?"

"She was a professional dancer. Since catching the virus, she teaches elementary school kids to dance."

"Sounds like a demotion. They probably mistake her as one of the kids."

"That won't happen -- she's a lot smaller than them. The same height as me. And I saw them, Zoe. Those kids are huge!"

"Yeah?"

"Some are over five feet tall."

"I never thought I'd think five feet as being huge, but that's more than twice as tall as me, Sam. That's crazy."

"I'm almost ashamed to admit this, but I was actually intimidated by those girls."

"It must be hard for her."

"She doesn't like the job."

"Probably can't do anything else, like me. This virus ruins everything."

"Look on the bright side."

"There is no bright side."

"You can save a lot of money on food."

She laughed. I made her laugh and it was good to hear it. "Ok, that's one thing. There probably aren't too many more."

"We already mentioned another. We look younger."

"Can we call that a bright side?"

"Absolutely. You can pick up dates easier. Right?"

"I suppose if you're into that, like a pedo."

"Uh, no. I didn't mean it that way."

"I know what you mean."

"I bet you get hit on by lots of guys."

"I stay inside as much as possible."

"That's sad. Don't you like getting out?"

"Yes, and no. I like getting out of the apartment, but I don't like all the people. You know, all the normal sized, giant people."

"I know. It must be especially hard for you now."

"That's right. I have no one to go out with anymore."

"Don't you have any other friends? Maybe someone with the virus?"

"No."

"You have me."

She sighed, "Thanks." I wasn't sure if she meant that.

"I've never been tall, Zoe. Before the virus, at my tallest, I was only ever four ten. How about you? How tall were you and Samantha before the virus started shrinking you?"

"I was five five. Sam was about the same. I think a little taller. Let's say five six."

"See? She was eight inches taller than me when we went out. I've lived with giants all my life."

"I guess it's easier for you to go out amongst the giants then."

"It better be. You should see my girlfriend now. She might be the tallest girl in the world."

"That's a fairly bold statement."

"She's nearly eight feet tall."

"Yeah, right. You don't need to try to impress me, Sam. That won't get you anywhere."

"But you're going to meet her. You'll see."

"It's just a matter of perspective. You can't really tell how tall a person really is unless you get out the ruler and measure them. It's even harder being this short. They all seem taller than they really are."

"But I have measured her. We use a tape measure and she's seven feet eleven inches tall."

"You measured her?"

"I got up on a ladder."

"Mmm huh."

"You don't believe me?"

"I believe you believe it."

"Ok. Like I said, you'll see soon enough."

"So how did this romance begin? Did she see you as a little dude in a crowd and say, that's the guy for me?"

"No. To be honest we used to date in high school and she was shorter than me then. One of the very few that are."

"Go on."

I told Zoe all about Julie. She was skeptical. I told her it's all true and that she would find out tomorrow.

"Do you prefer tall girls, Sam?"

"Meh. Whatever. The fact is, there's hardly anyone shorter."

"I'm shorter."

"Yes, you are. That puts you in a very distinguished minority in this world."

"That's one way of putting it. Would you go out with a shorter girl?"

"Why, Zoe, are you hitting on me? I'm flattered."

"Don't get your feathers up. It's just a question."

"Why yes, I most certainly would. But size is not the thing I base those decisions on."

"Right. You're going to say personality, aren't you?" she said rolling her eyes.

"Well, it's true."

"That, and big boobs."

"I like boobs in all sizes, thank you."

"But big boobs draw you to them, don't they?"

"They do catch a guys eye, but no, it's not like I'm drawn to them. What about you? What do you prefer?"

"Whoppers! The bigger the better. If they're not as big my head then they're no good."

"Really?"

"No, stupid. Personality and character count."

"Un huh. Maybe you're just saying that. Maybe you just want us guys to believe that."

"Seriously? Do you really think big boobs will draw my attention?"

"Well, you're the one that brought it up."

"I did, didn't I? But no, big boobs have no effect. We're immune."

"I don't know. I've seen lots of jealousy from girls dealing with chest size issues. It's pretty ugly too."

"High school, right?"

"Well, even in college."

"Not so much though."

"Meh. Not among the more mature, I suppose, if you can call college kids mature. You sure it makes no difference to you?"

"No."

"So if a gal with a huge rack walked by your eyes wouldn't follow them?"

"No. I'd be watching and laughing at the guys who would gawk at her instead. And don't tell me your eyes wouldn't wander."

"Me? Surely you don't think that quiet and unassuming, trusty me would do such a thing?"

"I'll bet you?"

"So, we'll ask a girl with big boobs to walk by and if my eyes follow her or look at her chest I win?"

"No, I win!"

"But isn't that too contrived? I mean, really, even the sexiest boobs are not going to do that if I know it's a bet. It has to be spontaneous."

"Well, if it ever happens, I'll catch you."

"Which means you have to go out in public with me."

"We'll see what happens."

"What does the winner get?"

"I'll think about it."

"Ok, do that. You have to believe me that character and personality are factors that guys consider too."

"Yeah, a small role. Physical attraction is still very important."

"Of course it is. You think you know all guys really pretty well, don't you?"

"I think I know enough."

"Don't paint half the population with such a wide brush, Zoe."

"Sam! You talk like you're educated."

"Stop trying to patronize me."

"I'm not. But you sound older than you are too."

"Too much studying, not enough partying."

"I'll say."

"And how would you know that?"

"I'll tell you how, but don't get mad at me. Promise?"

"I can't promise if I don't know what you're going to say. I hate when you girls do that."

"Then promise me you'll listen before making judgements."

"I can promise that."

"I stalked you."

"What?"

"When Sam wanted to, you know, find you, I helped her."

"So, you stalked me?"

"I'd like to say that I did due diligence in investigating Sam's prospective new beau, but really, the right word for what I did was stalk."

"So, you what; followed me around?"

"And looked in your dorm window and watched you sleep."

"You peeked in my dorm window? You must have been pretty good. I never noticed."

"I watched you fumble with asking other girls out too."

"Great. It must have a comedy show."

"Don't be upset. I would normally pass that sort of thing off as misogyny."

"I know, we're all misogynists." I said rolling my eyes.

"Most, not all."

"So, instead you took pity at all my rejections?"

"Maybe. I'd call it cute. Plus you were determined."

"And there's that word -- the one they all use for a short guy: cute, but not dating material. I get it, Zoe."

"Let me put it this way: you were pretty uh, suave, I suppose is the right word. If you were taller you would have had no problem getting dates, or one night stands, or whatever, with the girls. In fact, I might have considered going out with you under different circumstances."

"Isn't that something? Good to know my technique is not lacking."

"Sam, if you were a dud I would have fought harder to get Sam to give up her dare. But, after watching you I kind of figured that you weren't so bad for her. Little did I know that you were too good."

"What does that mean?"

"You were so good to her that Sam started really liking you. It was her idea to see you that second night. I thought she'd come home but she stayed with you. The plan was for her to sleep with you one night and make it a one night stand."

"You knew I wouldn't be able to resist Samantha, huh?"

"No guy would resist a girl as pretty as Sam."

"You're right. She was pretty. So were you."

"I was?"

"You are."

"Right. Moving on. We were going to have Sam meet you in the library. She didn't like that. She wanted to meet you at a party but as far as I could tell, you never went to parties. We lucked out when I found out you were going to the big blue."

"Everyone goes."

"Your friend had to convince you."

"Gabe? You knew Gabe?"

"Yeah, that's his name. I had forgotten it."

"You talked to him?"

"No. I just watched you two."

"Zoe! I just found out what your new career field is: detective work."

"Pffffft. No way."

"I never knew you were ever spying on me. You could do it and now that you're, well, that small, you could hide even better."

"I don't think so. Besides, you saw me."

"I did."

"You stared at me a couple times in the library."

"Um, I'm sorry. I don't remember."

"I look different now. I used to be a little taller you know."

"Oh boy, what an understatement."

"So, you see, I did stalk you. I knew about you before you knew about me."

"What else do you know about me?"

"That you're not a typical male."

"Yeah, well, duh. Like I said before, I've never been over five feet tall, and now look at me. Not your typical male at all."

"And I'd like to say that I didn't want to hurt your feelings. But the truth is I didn't care a whit about your feelings."

"Gee thanks, buddy."

"Don't get bent out of shape. I barely gives a rats ass for any guy."

"Ok, fine. I guess I'm relieved."

"You are?"

"I thought Sammy left for something I did wrong. Now I know why and I suppose I never really had a chance, that it wasn't my fault and it was all contrived and made up."

"It was your fault -- you were too good."

"No, not good enough."

"A matter of perspective."

"Are you jealous?"

"Yes. But strangely, I also feel close to you."

"Because of Sam or because you stalked me?"

"Both. I can see why she liked you. I guess that means I like you too. Only a little bit, though. You're still a you know, ewwww, a guy."

"I know, ewwww. What did Sam see in me?"

"It's what you did."

"What did I do?"

"You gave her head."

"She liked me because I went down on her?"

"You'd be surprised how many guys refuse to do that."

"And that's all it took?"

"No. You experimented and you listened to her. That's another thing most guys don't do. They might do it on a first date but not for two weeks."

"Yeah, well, that's no big deal. It would be pretty inconsiderate not to listen."

"That's right, and for Samantha it was a big deal."

"And what about you? What did you think after stalking me? You said you might have gone out with me under different circumstances."

"In a circumstance where I was straight. But, I'm not."

"Ok, but you didn't answer the question."

"You were witty, I guess."

"Really? You're not just saying that, because I never thought of myself as witty."

"Yeah, you're ok. Like a big brother."

"I have a little sister."

"Cool. How is she?"

"Five eight."

"I didn't ask how tall she was."

"I know."

"Five feet eight inches tall, huh?"

"Yep."

"Well, then she doesn't... hold on. You were four what, ten, before you caught the virus?"

"That's right."

"So she's taller than you even without the virus?"

"Yep."

"She's younger?"

"By almost two years."

"Was she always taller?"

"Not until she was, oh, eight or nine. Maybe earlier."

"So, you were ten or eleven when she started to be taller than you?"

"It was the worst moment of my life when she realized she was taller."

"Did she tease you?"

"Mercilessly."

"You poor thing." she said, although I detected a hint of sarcasm.

"She used to beat me up too."

"She did?"

"No. She can't fight. It would be the other way around. Her worst sin was that she always wanted to play. Still does."

"Ha, right. I'm sure being the guy you could beat her up."

"It's true. I wrestled and I was pretty good."

"That's right, you did wrestle. No, you did karate."

"In college I studied judo. It's not the same as karate."

"Whatevs."

"Still think I can't handle myself against a bigger girl?"

"You can't even handle yourself against me." she challenged.

"You? You're probably right."

"Sam." she said with less volume than before.

"What?"

"I get scared."

"Of bigger people?"

"Yes. I know it's irrational. It's come to the point of a phobia for me."

"It's affecting your life?"

"Why do you think I don't go out?"

"What about little people; those of us with the virus?"

"I'm ok with that, mostly, depending on size. The bigger, the scarier."

"You shouldn't be. Seriously, it's rare to find somebody who wants to hurt you -- even among normal sized, giant people."

"But not unheard of."

"True. I want you to know that I have a lot of friends now with the virus."

"How convenient."

"Just a few. I met most of them after the fact. Actually, most of my friend's with Borgford's I met at the clinic where they started the medications and adjusted the dose. You and Samantha went through that, right?"

"No. They just have a set dose. Once they verify that you have the virus they give you a prescription and off you go."

"You mean they sell those meds in the pharmacy?"

"Yes. Where do you get your meds?"

"I have to go through the clinic. At least for now; it's still experimental."

"Why would they do that?"

"I don't know. State law?"

"Could be. Drug laws are slightly different for each state. And then there's the federal rules and regs. Some of them conflict; very complicated. I'm not too familiar with viral treatments though. I know a little about drugs of abuse."

"It's not like this is a drug of abuse."

"It could be."

"It doesn't make you high or anything."

"It arouses you. It's the only thing that does that for both male and female. I could see it being used at say, the big blue."

"Oh wow. The only other side effect I know of is growing hair on your palms."

"What?!"

"I keed. I keed. Ha, ha." I laughed. "I got you, didn't I?"

"Ha, in your dreams." she said shaking her head. "It's too bad it doesn't make your penis or boobs bigger."

"Why Zoe, is that why you're a lesbian; because penises aren't big enough?"

"Pffft. You wish."

"No, mine's not that big. At least not anymore."

"There's a first for a guy -- admitting to that. So, how big is it? ONLY ten inches now?"

"It shrank along with me. I mean, I can't detect any size change, but I'm sure others without the virus would. Ten inches, I certainly wish."

"Have you compared?"

"NO!"

"Ha ha. I got you that time."

"Very funny. But you're right about that being potential abuse worthy. I mean, if it really made penis' grow then it would be flying off the shelves. Hell, I'd even try it. I'd have to keep up you know."

"Keeping up; that's funny. And you know what would be worse?"

"What?"

"If the effects were temporary. Then everyone would be clamoring for those pills."

"A drug companies dream."

"Fucking evil pharmas!" she spat.

"Whoa. That's a bit extreme, isn't it?"

"Not when you've dealt with opioid addiction."

"Did you ..."

"Oh no. Not me. Never. But I worked with addicts."

"That must have been rough."

"You have no idea how bad it can be. Although I really lament losing my job, I sort of don't regret having to work with addicts. Don't get me wrong here, I like helping people with problems. It's just that the drug problem is so bad that you can't very well help these addicts."

"Wow. It must be pretty depressing."

"It's heartbreaking. I've lost about one in ten of all the people I would work with to overdoses."

"That's bad. You must have been dedicated."

"You have to be. It's hard. A lot of councilors burn out. Maybe losing my job was a blessing."

"We'll find you something else that you can do, Zoe. There's lots of opportunities where I live."

"Thanks. I know we will."

"So, how did you talk Samantha out of seeing me?"

"It wasn't easy. I had to threaten her: you or me."

"And she chose you."

"Yes. After all, she was a lesbian."

"I had no idea she was a lesbian. She must have been a real good actor."

"She wasn't acting, Sam. She had real feelings for you. It was a hard decision for her."

"Did she know she was pregnant?"

"Not for couple of weeks after she broke it off with you."

"I wonder if she found out sooner if that would have made a difference."

"I don't want to think about it, Sam."

"She could have ended up with me and left you."

"Maybe."

"We were rivals for Samantha's affection."

"I know. You should be like the last guy in the world I'd go off with, right? At least you're not a complete stranger."

"I think Samantha would have wanted me to do this for you."

"I think you're right. You know I had a dream about that the other night. She said she wanted me to go off with you. To let you take care of me."

"Was this Wednesday night, Thursday morning?"

"Yes, it was."

"No way. I suppose now you're going to tell me she was six inches tall."

Zoe narrowed her eyes and looked me.

"What did you say?"

"I said Samantha was six inches tall."

"Did I tell you about this before?"

"No. So she really was six inches in your dream?"

"Yes, but that was my dream. How did you know?"

"Because that was my dream too! She told me to take care of you."

Zoe turned away and looked down the road, frowning. After a few moments of silence she bellowed, "That's just a coincidence."

"Yeah." I agreed. "Just a coincidence."

Then there was silence. We drove without talking for a good half hour or more. Flat desert was whizzing by at a blurring pace since I was speeding. (Hey, I had made this long, full round trip for the last two days -- you can't blame me for trying to get it over faster.) The drone of the tires on the highway was the only sound we heard. That is, until I broke the silence.

"Did you grow up here in Arizona?"

"No, California."

"That's a nice place. I've been there a couple of times."

"It has bad memories for me. Did I tell you about my aunt?"

"The one that raised you? Yeah."

"It was in California."

"Ok, going back to California is not an option then."

"Got that right."

"Scared of the future?"

"Scared shitless."

"I hope I don't let you down."

"I wouldn't do this with just anyone, so if it's any consolation to you, I trust you because of Samantha. If it wasn't for her, well, don't take offense, but I would kindly tell you to fuck off."

"Thanks for having faith in me."

"I could really use a drink."

"You know about that, right?"

"I know. But you've already had one with me."

"Certainly not now. I'm driving."

"Later?"

"I don't think so."

"Hmpfff." she said folding her arms in front of her and looking away. To see her now nobody would have thought her any older than a pre-teen. It was kind of endearing. By this time we were driving through, or rather around, Phoenix.

"We'll be there soon, Zoe. Kaycee has the virus and Bonnie doesn't, so you'll know who is who. You'll be staying there just overnight and I'll get you tomorrow on the way to the airport."

"What time?"

"I don't know. We'll play it by ear. The flight's not until later in the day but we don't want to be too late. Airport crowds suck nowadays."

"Crowds? That news is not making me feel any better."

"You've flown before, right?"

"Yes, but not since contracting the virus."

"I'll be there with you. It's better with others around. Besides, the airport in Phoenix seems accommodating to people like us."

"People with Borgford's disease?"

"Yes. Surprised?"

"A little. And what about other airports?"

"Just stick with me. I don't know if I'll be able to find you if we get separated. Let me look over the airport map later so we can agree on a place to meet if we split up."

"This is not reassuring."

"Don't worry. Better to be prepared. It's a lot harder to snatch two little people together than it is one."

"Sam!"

"I'm kidding. Nobody is going to do any such thing."


----- Kaycee's

It was nearly nine o'clock when I parked. I grabbed one of Zoe's bags and we knocked on Kaycee's door. Fortunately, Kaycee answered.

"There you are. I was beginning to think you weren't coming." Kaycee said, gesturing us in. "Hello, Zoe. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"So, Sam has told you about me?"

"We were together when Sam found out about you. What was the name of that clothing store, Sam?"

"Binky Bird Boutique."

"That's it. You should have seen how happy Sam was. Bonnie, Hal, come meet Zoe."

We were in the living room when Bonnie came out from the kitchen. Poor Zoe must have been pretty nervous. She got behind me and was so close that she was touching. Only her head was peeking out from my side.

"Hi, Zoe." Bonnie said bending down and holding her hand out. Hal just stood back.

"Hello." Zoe replied. She didn't reach out to take Bonnie's hand, however. I was now beginning to think she wasn't just nervous; she was scared. It reminded me of Gail. I figured Hal's immense presence wasn't helping here. Bonnie introduced Hal to Zoe but she just nodded.

Bonnie withdrew her hand, somewhat miffed, and motioned everyone to the couch. Zoe, predictably, sat right next to me. Kaycee sat on her little chair across from the couch.

Zoe seemed to have no problem talking to Kaycee, but her conversation with Bonnie was short (excuse the pun), and nonexistent with Hal. To be fair, Hal didn't talk much.

To make up for this I tried engaging Bonnie more in conversation. Then Bonnie got out the guitar.

"It's kind of late for that, Bonnie."

"It's Friday night."

"Alright then." I said as I took the guitar.

It felt good to hold the instrument. I hadn't picked one up for a few days and the familiar feel of the crafted wood instrument sitting in my lap, my right arm around the body, the left settling naturally on the strings, was comforting. Maybe this would help Zoe open up. It did.

"Sam would listen to your songs endlessly, Sam." Zoe said. "I was forced to listen to them."

"Gee, Zoe, I'm sorry."

"There's no need to be sorry. But if I had thought that they would bring Sam to kill herself, then I probably would have put a stop to it."

"How did she find my songs anyway? It's not like I advertised."

"She searched for them."

"But how did she even know that I had songs for downloading?"

"She just searched the internet for anything about you and the songs came up. Naturally, she downloaded them."

"Ah, I see now. What prompted her to do that though?"

"It was the anniversary of the thing we were talking about with Marlene."

"Oh that. Damn."

"I didn't know you published your songs before this week." Kaycee added.

"It was only recently that I started doing that. Cindy is a big help for me there."

"How so?"

"She's into the whole artsy performance stuff and knew a lot about recording songs. She helped me record and publish them. Although, once you know how it's pretty easy. The hard part is getting people to know about them."

"Advertising."

"That's right, Kaycee."

"Don't you advertise?"

"No, I'll just let people find out by word of mouth."

"But you have to have mouths first." Bonnie added.

"I know, Bonnie. I play at the coffee house on Fridays. It's the one where Julie used to work. People know me from there and hopefully will tell their friends and they'll tell theirs and so on."

"I'll tell my friends!"

"Thanks, Bonnie."

"Me too." Hal said.

"I'd appreciate that, Hal. I suppose with everyone telling their friends my songs will really start selling. Ha, ha."

"Don't you get nervous singing in front of a crowd?" Zoe asked.

"I do right before I go onstage. But once I start singing all the butterflies in my stomach go away and I have fun."

"I envy your bravery."

"Once you get the first song out it's a piece of cake. Not much bravery involved."

"I envy your talent." Bonnie said.

"It's just a lot of practice, Bonnie."

"I wouldn't say that. I know lots of people who practice so much and they don't sound as good as you, Sam. It's also talent."

"Or maybe passion then. I just like hearing the guitar and when you do it then you want to do more. Practice is just like playing -- like playground playing when you're a kid."

"We like to hear you play, Sam."

"Then what would you like to hear?"

So then I began performing. I played many folk songs -- most of them the gang hadn't heard before. I played some pop and some country too.

Bonnie drank wine spritzers, Hal had beer, and the rest of us soda. Zoe wanted wine too, but I dissuaded her from that. She even tried to get Kaycee to drink with her; little minx.

Singing for my friends made up for performing at Mike's and more importantly it loosened up Zoe a little bit I think. Hal and I didn't get out of there until after midnight. When it was time for me and Hal to leave Zoe was actually talking in full sentences to Bonnie. She never did warm up much to Hal though. I figured that was just fine.

I kissed Kaycee goodnight -- a long and sensual kiss -- and left for Gabe's.

I hadn't seen him much since Monday and I was fortunate that he was kind enough to take me back in. Gabe and I talked of Master Soo, Kaycee, and Zoe, then I went to sleep. I had been spending over six hours per day on the road the past three days and it made me weary so I had a good nights sleep. No sex, but I welcomed the rest. Plus I was ready to go back home. It had been a long week.