Ch. 173 - Getting Ready - Driving Lessons

 
Now that Rebekah and I were fully braced, we just sat in our wheelchairs for a few minutes, looking at each other and testing the restrictions of our braces. It was an amazing sensation. The only parts of our bodies we could move were our eyes, tongues, and a few toes. Our bite blocks, along with the chin cups on our braces, severely limited our ability to move our jaws. Speaking and being fed will be a difficult challenge.
 
 
Finally, Judy crutched over and covered both of us with our robes, tucking them in around us, and said, "You two look amazing! I wish I was braced up like you, and I'm anxious to see how you control your wheelchairs with your tongues. I hope you don't run into each other." She then stuck her newly pierced tongue out at us, and we returned the gesture just as Millie happened to snap a picture. That will be a picture we'll cherish for years to come.
 
 
Then Paul said, "Hey Jimmy, come help us move these tables out of the way so the girls can get some driving lessons." The tables were moved, making way for plenty of room for Rebekah and me to practice driving our wheelchairs. Joel and Paul plugged the sensors on our braces into our wheelchairs and powered up the tablet computers. After the app was running, the guys explained that we had to train it by following the instructions on the screen. This was done by sticking out our tongues and holding them in various positions so the computer could make a map of how they moved.

 
As we were training the computer, we realized why Joe placed such large and cumbersome bite blocks in our mouths. When relaxed, our jaws are positioned comfortably, with our front teeth parted just enough to allow our tongues to easily move in and out of our mouths.

 
Finally, the app had been trained, and the diagnostic screen showed that the cursor moved with our tongue movements. It got larger and smaller depending on how far we stuck them out, and it disappeared when our tongues were fully in our mouths. It will be interesting to gauge people's reactions to us operating our wheelchairs with our tongues darting around. I hope it's a great conversation starter, but I have no idea what we will tell people about the braces immobilizing our bodies. With the app trained, now it is time to learn how to use it and have a driving lesson.

 
Paul lispfully explained:

 
"Sticking your tongues straight out and moving them left, right, left, then back to center engages mobility mode, which will allow you to control your wheelchair and move about. If, instead, the motion is up, down, up, center, that is keyboard mode, allowing control of the tablet like you are using a mouse. You can send texts and emails and also use the phone. The table is cloned to your cell phones, and we'll explain texting and making calls later."

 
"Making a circular motion puts the system on standby, so you can speak and eat without activating anything. There is a tone that indicates which mode is active. Two beeps indicate mobility mode, and three indicate keyboard mode. Two low-pitched beeps indicate standby, and a long, low beep means that a command was not understood. It's all really simple, and once you get used to it, it will become second nature; that's what Jackie told us. Any questions, ladies?

 
We had no questions and were filled with anticipation to try the system out.

 
With Paul's tongue quite raw from speaking with his habit rake, Joel explained mobility mode:

 
"Once in mobility mode, to go forward, you simply point your tongue upwards, and the chair will go forward. Move your tongue left or right, and the chair will move in that direction. Pointing down is reverse. To stop, just point your tongue straight ahead. Pulling your tongue quickly to the back of your mouth is an emergency stop. However, if you are moving straight ahead, you can slowly bring your tongue into your mouth to wet it or your lips, and your chair will continue forward. If you don't bring your tongues back to the forward position within one second, your chair will ease to a stop."

 
This all sounded simple enough, and with our husbands following us with the attendant controls in hand, Rebekah and I put our chairs into mobility mode. Tentatively, we pointed our tongues upward, and our chairs began to move slowly. The farther up we moved our tongues, the faster we went, but the maximum speed had been limited for safety's sake for now. As we moved around the shop, our friends cheered us on. It was amazing how well we did, and it's a really easy system to master; this is a lot of fun! Rebekah and I were unable to move any part of our bodies, but yet we could go anywhere—well, anywhere wheelchair-accessible. It was an incredible feeling.

 
After a bit of practice indoors, we went outside. Because we could only look straight ahead, all navigation had to be planned in advance. This was just like when we were in our halo braces, where stopping and turning in our chairs had to be anticipated. I started to run off the path once, and I quickly pulled my tongue back into my mouth. My wheelchair stopped with a jolt. I was glad I was firmly strapped in, or I would have fallen out.

 
By now, it was late, and it was getting a bit too cold to be outside. Jimmy and Judy were hungry; they missed dinner so they could see Rebekah and I get placed in our braces. Millie said she would make breakfast in the morning, and she invited everyone. Rebekah and Paul then turned towards home, and the rest of us went back to my place, and we said goodnight to Judy and Jimmy as they went into their cottage.

 
Once home, Joel and I wanted to be alone in our bedroom, but Sam and Millie wanted to help me get ready for bed; the girls were curious how Joel would position my limbs for the night. Despite wanting to be alone, a few minutes more with the girls would be fun.

 
Once in the bedroom, Joel disconnected the magnetic sensors on my brace from my wheelchair, carefully unstrapped me, and removed my robe. He then used our portable hoist to lift me into bed. I think I must weigh an extra fifty pounds with all this leather and stainless steel that my body is strapped, laced, and bolted into. Joel sat me on the end of the bed, but I fell backwards from all the weight of the upper part of my brace. I was lying on my back with my legs up in the air and spread slightly apart, with my knees and hips still at ninety degrees.

 
Joel slid my braced body further up the bed, then he unlocked my knees and hips. I was now lying flat on my bed. My arms were then positioned like when I was in my shoulder spica cast, with them pointing to the sky. It was then that I could see how my fingers were splayed apart, held fast with loops of soft leather. I was now lying naked, except for my brace, and Joel connected my catheter to a large collection bag for the night.

 
Joel then locked my knees and ankles and said, "Millie, take hold of Leigh's right leg and spread it as far as her brace will let you; it will lock in place automatically. Don't listen to her if she tells you to stop; Billy said it would be OK. Millie nervously pulled my right leg as far as she could, while Joel did the same to my left. It was painful, and I let out a few whimpers; however, I was enjoying the discomfort. I'm used to wearing my HKAFOs or my nighttime brace, which do not hold my legs this far apart, so this was quite a stretch. I was relieved when I heard the two clicks indicating my hips were locked in place, and I began to get used to how everything felt. It was similar to the Petrie cast I wore when I first decided to let go of my legs. I felt a bit vulnerable like this with Sam and Millie present, but that soon faded as I recalled Sam and Millie putting me in a Petrie cast at Kings Mountain; they had seen me in this position before.

 
The girls quickly realized that Joel positioned my body like this for a reason, and Sam said, "Goodnight, and have fun!" while Millie giggled. Joel said, "Before you girls go, want to help me change my elastics? I don't want to have any trouble with these compliance devices Leigh had installed in my mouth." Sam and Millie jumped at the opportunity to help, and Joel's elastics were quickly changed without any issues. The girls then came over to me, and they each held my braced hands, and Millie said, "We hope you love your brace, Leigh. Have a great time wearing it." Sam added, "We are more than a little jealous of you, Leigh. Enjoy your evening." They left the room, so Joel and I could enjoy my brace.

 
Joel then stripped down to nothing but his orthodontic braces and headgear, then crawled on top of me. There was no cuddling or talking tonight; placing me in my brace was the only foreplay necessary. Joel and I were both so aroused that I know Sam and Millie couldn't help but notice. We simply had a wild night of lovemaking and multiple, earth-shaking orgasms. I never thought anything would top sex in my hip spica-Minerva cast, but this did!

 
The next morning, as I groggily awoke, I tried to stretch. However, my brace prevented this; I couldn’t move a muscle in my body. Joel was already up, and when he saw me straining against my brace, he leaned over to kiss me. Well, he tried to kiss me, but his headgear got in the way. I parted my lips and opened my mouth as far as I could, and he pressed his headgear and lips against mine. Our tongues met, and Joel explored my new piercing. My body completely relaxed and went limp within my brace.

 
After our rather challenging kiss, Joel said, "Let's get you ready for the day. I'm sure that the girls will want to take you and Rebekah out to have some fun." I really wanted to just stay home and get used to my brace, but on the other hand, it would be fun to go out. Joel went to the bathroom and returned with several warm, damp washcloths. He cleansed my face—the little that was visible—and then proceeded to the tiny areas of my body that were not encased in thick leather.
 

Now it was onto my teeth and orthodontic appliances. Joel positioned my body at the edge of the bed and placed me in a sitting position with the overhead lift supporting my body so I didn't fall backwards. He went to the bathroom and returned with the small brushes necessary to clean behind the guards on my teeth. Since I couldn't lean forward to spit, Joel had a small suction device that I could spit into. It all made cleaning my teeth and appliances easy, but it still took almost half an hour. We take really good care of my teeth since I need good, strong, healthy teeth to wear all the orthodontic appliances that I adore.
 

Joel now said, "This next part might not be pleasant, but it's necessary—your bowel regimen." He was right; it was not pleasant but necessary to prevent me from soiling my diaper or any parts of my brace, and I'll spare you the details. Oh, the diaper Joel put me in. It was a big, bulky thing that made crinkling sounds. I normally wear a diaper that is more close-fitting and less bulky for bladder issues only. The big, bulky diaper Joel put me in is for, well, you can figure it out. I hope I never have to use it.
 

Joel asked me what I wanted to wear today, and knowing it was going to be a bit cool, I wanted a long wool skirt and loose, long-sleeve sweater. I didn't know how warm my brace would keep me, so I didn't want too many layers of clothing; I can always have one of the girls cover me with a throw if I get cold. I also wondered how Joel would get me dressed in my braces, but it went rather easily. He simply laid me back on the bed with my legs in a sitting position and put my skirt on me. Joel rocked me side to side as he pulled my skirt up to my waist. It was arousing, and my diaper became damp.
 

With my skirt on, Joel sat me in my wheelchair, strapped my legs in place, and connected the electronic sensors. He then unlocked my shoulders and elbows and placed my arms above my head. I must have looked a bit like a football goalpost. Joel easily put my sweater on me, and then he positioned my arms on the armrests with my thumbs up, then firmly strapped them in place. He adjusted my sweater, getting any wrinkles out, before strapping my body to the backrest of my wheelchair. Joel then applied a bit of makeup for me, including a very bold red lipstick. He placed my red glasses on my face, then brushed my hair and put it in a bun just above the headrest of my brace.
 

It was at this point that I realized that I had no idea how I looked in my massive brace. Sure, I saw Rebekah in hers last night, but she wasn't dressed to go out; she was naked, without makeup or her glasses, and her hair was messily tied up. I put my wheelchair into mobility mode and wheeled over to the full-length mirror, and it was surreal. Surrounding my face was dark red leather and polished stainless steel. The band around my forehead, holding my head firmly in place, seemed so wide and sparkled in the light. The leather and metal immobilizing my hands and feet made them look so small and frail. To most people, I would be a pitiful sight—a broken and crippled woman. To me, I felt more beautiful than ever!

Ch. 175 - Immobilized II

 
After Paul and Rebekah went home, Joel unlocked my hips and knees and reclined my wheelchair without relocking my joints; it's not like I could move since I'm so tightly strapped to my wheelchair. It felt strange to be strapped to my chair and have it move my body, which had not moved since Joel placed me in my chair this morning. He then put on some classical music and said he was going to take a shower, then prepare dinner for us. I know it will be something soft; I could tell that Joel is in quite a bit of discomfort with all his new orthodontic appliances, but he's not complaining. I love him so much!
 
 
It seemed like an eternity before Joel returned and raised my chair back to a sitting position. This time, he did lock my joints. I followed Joel to the kitchen so we could talk while he cooked.
 
 
J: So how is everything, Leigh? Are you doing OK? We can stop this adventure at any time if you desire. I want this to be pleasurable for both of us.
 
 
L: Well, Joel, it's a bit claustrophobic at times, but I'm doing OK. I've had a few muscle spasms, but that's it. I'm actually very comfortable, and I did enjoy having you recline my chair; it felt good. How are you coping with your orthodontics? I can tell you are in a bit of pain, dear.
 
 
J: Yes, there is some discomfort. I take that back; there's quite a bit of discomfort. My habit rake has really torn up my tongue, and this reverse pull facemask is making my chin and forehead a bit raw, but I'll get used to it all.
 
 
L: I can tell you where the tool is to disable the compliance devices for your facemask; I can tell you are miserable. At least that would be one less thing bothering you. I really went too far, honey, and I'm sorry. You can go see Joe next week and get anything you don't like removed.
 
 
J: No, I'm keeping it all. Paul and I were talking today, and we take it as a personal challenge. There are people who actually need to wear all these appliances; we'll tough it out!
 
 
L: OK, Joel. I'm here for you. If you ever want to disable your compliance devices, the tool is in my coin purse. Put it over the spring and gently twist it down. The spike will push against your bands instead of your gums.
 
 
J: Thanks for letting me know, and I would ask you before doing anything. OK, dinner's ready; split pea soup will be easy to eat!
 
 
We ate dinner, and Joel carefully and lovingly fed me. It's fun to have one of the girls feed me, but it is so sensual and almost erotic when Joel does it. I have no control over my body, and relying on someone for the most basic of my needs is a very intense and humbling experience. Judy is actually better at feeding me than Joel is; she can read my mind and bring a fork full of food or a syringe of a beverage to my mouth just at the right time without me asking. Joel, not so much, but he still does a great job.
 
 
After we ate dinner, we enjoyed another bottle of wine, which made me sleepy. I asked Joel to take me to the bedroom and prepare my braced body for bed. Joel, seeing that I was a bit tipsy, disconnected the sensors on my brace from my wheelchair. When I heard the click from the connector on the cable, a wave of fear overcame me; that one little cable was the only thing that gave me any control over my life. I no longer had any control over my situation at all; I was now a doll strapped into a wheelchair. Joel took the attendant control in hand and wheeled me to the bedroom.
 

Once there, he cleaned my orthodontic appliances and teeth before using the hoist to place me on an absorbent pad on the bed. Joel undressed me, then rolled me onto my left side and began the procedure to clear my bowels. Maybe it was the wine, but it wasn't nearly as uncomfortable as it was this morning. In fact, it was almost pleasurable. After that deed was done, Joel laid me on my back, spread my legs in about the same position as my nighttime brace, and put my arms at my sides with my limbs all firmly locked in place. Joel got a warm cloth, removed my glasses, leaving my vision blurry, and gently washed my face before he went to take a shower. 

 
******

 
The sunlight was streaming in through the bedroom window, and I could feel Joel holding my braced right hand. I must have fallen asleep while Joel was showering last night.
 
 
J: How are you doing, sweetie? You slept like a rock last night.
 
 
L: I feel great, but could you put my glasses on me? I can't see.
 
 
Joel gets out of bed and puts my glasses on my face, then he leans down and kisses me. Without saying a word, he unlaced the brace on my left leg, spread the leather cuffs back, and proceeded to massage my limp, atrophied leg. My brace was then tightly laced back up, and the procedure was repeated on my right leg, all in complete silence except for my moans of pleasure; it felt so good! Joel did the same for my arms, and my skin was so sensitive. Finally, I couldn't take it any longer and said, "Joel, I need you inside me. Now!" Joel adjusted my legs into position, and then he brought the both of us great pleasure. 
 
 
After our long encounter, we kissed before Joel cleaned my teeth once again. The bowel procedure was now performed, and yes, I actually do find it quite enjoyable now. We have never explored that part of either of our bodies, and I do think that when I'm out of my brace, Joel will be experiencing at least part of what I have while in my brace.
 
 
We're spending today alone, likely not even leaving the house, but our plans might change; we'll see. Joel got me dressed simply in a tank top and loose-fitting shorts before hoisting me into my wheelchair. He positioned me with my legs spread slightly and with my knees almost straight before adjusting my wheelchair and strapping me in; it was a very comfortable position. He then plugged in the sensors for my tongue control and whatever independence I could have returned. Joel got dressed, I guided my wheelchair to the den, and Joel went to make coffee.
 
 
We enjoyed our coffee, and Joel said.
 
 
J: There are a few things I want to teach you about your tongue control, Leigh.
 
 
L: Like what, Joel?
 
 
J: I want to teach you how to control the phone, email, and texting functions on your tablet. That way, you will be able to communicate with your friends.
 
 
L: That will be great, but I'm hungry. Want to fix breakfast?
 
 
J: How about smoothies? My mouth is still aching from all these appliances I'm wearing now.
 
 
L: Sounds good, Joel, but I want a real meal later—something filling.
 
 
J: No problem, Leigh. I love you, and I'll take good care of you.
 
 
L: I love you, too, Joel. This brace has been a wonderful surprise. I have just accepted my immobilization, and my body is completely relaxed and limp within all this stainless steel and leather. This is the most relaxing thing I have ever experienced. The only thing that would make it better is if I had blinding contact lenses like Emme's and my jaw was wired shut, but then I would lose the limited mobility I have.
 
 
With a mischievous smile, Joel said, "I'll keep that all in mind, dear," before going to make our smoothies.
 
 
We enjoyed our liquid breakfast, then Joel taught me how to use all the features on my tablet computer. It takes a long time to type out a message, but I was able to do it. Answering the phone and making calls were easier; fewer movements were needed. It was fun to learn all the features, and time got away from us; before we knew it, it was late afternoon.
 
 
Joel was showing me a few final things when I got a video chat request from Rebakah; Paul had obviously given her the same instructions as I had received. She asked if Joel and I were planning to use the small bus this evening. We must share it because it is the only way to transport Bekah and me in these wheelchairs. We were not, and she asked if we wanted to join her and Paul for dinner at the little diner at the highway junction. I felt confident enough to go out to eat in my braces, despite my rather revealing outfit. Joel's teeth were feeling better too, so we said yes.
 
 
Paul and Rebekah soon arrived, and the guys got us loaded up. Paul's mouth was also feeling much better, and we were all hungry. Rebekah, like me, was dressed very casually, with much of her brace showing. Everyone would realize how immobilized our bodies are; there was no hiding anything, and we didn't care.
 
 
When we arrived at the diner, all eyes were on us. Two ladies wearing extreme braces, sitting in motorized wheelchairs, and controlling them with their tongues got a lot of attention. The sensors on our braces and our piercings made it obvious that our tongues darting around were how we controlled our wheelchairs. Joel and Paul, with all their orthodontic appliances, bands, and reverse-pull headgear, were the icing on the cake. The place went silent; you could hear a pin drop! Finally, the hostess took us to a table large enough to accommodate our wheelchairs and where the guys could easily sit to feed us.
 
 
We were positioned at the table in such a way that we were looking out the window and couldn't see the people passing by us. All I know is that I could hear people gasp when they saw Bekah and me, and sometimes a hushed comment. It was quite exciting, and I wondered what people were thinking.
 
 
When we go home, Joel gets me ready for bed, which is now becoming routine. The only thing that differs is how he positions my body while he's taking a shower and then for the night. This evening, while he showered, he put my arms to my sides and laid me on my tummy with my head overhanging the bed, like when I was in my big casts. Joel put my phone on a stool before me and started my YouTube watch later list, and I watched videos while awaiting his return. When he returned, we made love, and then he positioned my limbs for the night.
 

******

 
The next day, Rebekah and I both had a lot of visitors; everyone wanted to see us in our braces and also watch us navigate our wheelchairs with our tongue controls. Emme flipped out when she saw me and was on the phone to Billy right away; she wants a brace like this, too.
 
 
By the time Monday night was upon us, both Rebekah and I had become very comfortable in our braces. We both had our routines, morning and night, and we loved having our husbands take care of us. The way our braces feel is amazing, and both of us have totally submitted to them—we no longer make any attempts to move.
 
 
On Tuesday, Lydia dropped Kathy off in the morning. Her teeth are now perfect, and all of her orthodontic appliances have done their jobs, whether they were placed to straighten her teeth or simply to bring her and Lydia pleasure. Rebekah and I also now have perfectly straight teeth too, and we all want to keep them that way, adorned with at least bands for the rest of our lives.
 
 
Since what Rebekah and I currently have in our mouths is only temporary, the three of us discussed what we are calling our 'permanent appliances'. These are the appliances that will be placed in our mouths after our brace adventure is over, where they will remain forever. We decided it would be fun to all wear the exact same appliances, but with personal touches like splints or any other plastic parts made in our favorite colors.
 
 
After hours of deliberation and looking at literally hundreds of orthodontic websites from all over the world, we finally decided what we all wanted. Kathy called Sally, who made a few suggestions; one of which was rather intense, and we told her we would confirm everything in a few days. She has current scans, so as soon as we give the word, our appliances could be fabricated.
 
 
When Lydia and the guys arrived home, Jimmy suggested we all go out for drinks and dinner this evening. A few calls were made, and we would leave at six.
 
 
When we got downtown, there was no place to park the bus near the restaurant, so Bekah and I had to wheel about six blocks, along with the other poor girls crutching. The streets and sidewalks were busy, and we got a lot of looks. One man in his 60s coming the other way just stopped in front of us and stared. Billy had to tap him in the shoulder to get him to move on; it was like he was in a trance, staring at all us girls.
 

We had a wonderful night out, and Bekah and I are really enjoying the attention from strangers, but no one has spoken to us about our situation yet. We hope that changes on our trip; we leave in a few days and the guys haven't even told us where we are going; it’s another surprise.

Ch. 177 - Sarah & Flora I

By: JotaBSP and NapaCaster



California - Rogers and Jameson Orthotics and Prosthetic...


Billy hears Collene's voice on the intercom:


C: Billy, the UPS man just delivered a package. I think it's parts for the electronic reciprocating gait orthosis project you're working on.


B: I'll be right there, honey. I've been waiting for this package for weeks. I hope my new design works, but I won't know until we get a client who is able to use it. It's a shame you can't try it, Collie, but you don't have the necessary upper-body strength to use it.


C: It's okay; I wouldn't want to use it anyway. I'm so used to my braces and crutches; walking without them would be wrong—they have been a part of me for so long.
 

B: I know, Collie, you wouldn't change a thing about your life. I'll be right there; I'm just finishing the new socket for Lori's stump. 
 

Billy turns off the intercom and goes back to working on the carbon fiber socket. Collene looks at the package on the table, then she looks at the computer and does some research for a potential client who could use the device that Billy is developing.


******


New York - The Murphy Residence...


Sarah and Flora are relaxing at home after visiting Julie and José in London. Flora has just transferred from her wheelchair to the sofa; she adjusts her legs and watches Sarah in the kitchen opening a bottle of wine. Leaving the kitchen with two glasses of wine in her hands, Sarah walks towards Flora on her prosthetic legs with balance and confidence. Sarah no longer hides them, and Flora is proud that Sarah has overcome her shame and accepted who she is now. Sarah hands over the glass of wine.
 

"You know it takes more than one glass to get me drunk; what are you planning, girl?" Flora asks with a slight smile.


"Why do you always distrust me when I have glasses of wine in my hands?" Sarah asks teasingly.


"Why is it that, always after the wine, you give me some bad news or want to ask me for something, but you don't know how to say it?" Flora was curious to know what Sarah was thinking.


"That's absurd! I've never done that. I just want to relax next to my beautiful and perfect girlfriend." Sarah smiles and leans in for a kiss.


Flora knows Sarah very well. She was very affectionate and didn't try to take Flora's clothes off—Sarah is planning something. Flora decides to wait; she returns the kiss—a long and passionate kiss. They toasted and kissed again, with the taste of wine on their lips.


"Come here; sit down. Help me with these legs... Just like that. That's it. Take off those sandals, please." Flora says watching Sarah work on her legs and now her feet one at a time.


"How are you feeling?" Sarah places Flora's flaccid legs on her lap while Flora leans back and relaxes.


"Ah, much better. I remember when you did that; it was so good. I try to remember what it was like—the feeling." Flora sees Sarah massaging her feet.


"I also remember what it was like, but I don't want to see you massaging my rubber feet." Sarah gives a slight smile and makes Flora laugh out loud.


"You're silly. I love your stumps, and..." Flora bites her lip. "...the path to pleasure just got shorter." Flora sees Sarah smile, and her hand slides down Flora's sagging thigh, but Sarah pulls her hand back.


"Okay, girl, you're trying to tell me something, and you're starting to make me nervous. Talk to me." Flora encourages her as she sees Sarah's hands caressing her feet.


"Well... We just got back from a trip; I loved visiting Julie and José, and they are doing great." Sarah lets out a sigh. "I'm very happy for them. José is recovering well, and soon Julie will be free from the casts." Sarah looks at Flora's feet and adjusts her toe rings.

 
"Hey!" Flora says, and Sarah turns and looks into Flora's eyes. "I'm happy for them too. Is there anything else? What is it?" Flora encourages Sarah to talk more.


"I've been thinking... our bags are still packed." Sarah comments, biting her lip.


"You want to visit your friends, don't you? The ones you made after you lost your legs." Flora raises an eyebrow.


"Yes! But only if you want to go too." Sarah gives her a pleading look.


"You don't need to make that face to convince me. I want to meet your friends too." Flora smiles, and Sarah doesn't hide her joy. "But I also want to be with you... alone!" Flora makes her condition clear.


"Yes, I also want to enjoy some time with you. I'll make arrangements tomorrow. But I don't know about my friends. This is kind of short notice; I'll call Collene anyway." Sarah has a plan. "We will go, even if they can't go."


"We're going to have so much fun, and I hope your friends can join us." Flora leans forward, places the empty glass on the table, puts her arms around Sarah, and they kiss passionately.


The wine made their bodies heat up, and Sarah felt Flora's hands run up and down her body. Flora felt Sarah's hands just above her injury, where she could feel it. Sarah breaks the kiss; she wanted to be more comfortable. Flora watches Sarah carefully remove her legs from her lap and stand up.


"Let me put you in your wheelchair; we'll finish this conversation in the bedroom." Flora raised her arms, and Sarah helped her transfer to the wheelchair.


"I love this conversation!" Flora says in a seductive voice.


Sarah leans in and kisses Flora once more. It was still a little strange for Flora, but she was getting used to Sarah pushing her wheelchair. At that moment, the most important thing was to continue in the bedroom what they started in the living room.


******


California - Rogers and Jameson Orthotics and Prosthetics...


The next day, Collene was having a cup of coffee while doing paperwork. Billy had finished Lori's new carbon fiber socket, and now he was working on his RGO project in the workshop. Suddenly, Collene's cell phone starts ringing. She looks at the cell phone screen and can't believe the name that appears: Sarah Murphy. Collene smiles widely. The bands on her teeth and her facebow are gleaming in the light as she lispfully answers the phone.


C: Hi Sarah! How are you doing? It's been an eternity.


S: Hello, Collene. I'm sorry for not giving you any news. I've been a little busy, and I just recently got back from London. I called because I wanted to know if I could meet you, Billy, Pat, and Terry at Kings Mountain Retreat. I know it's short notice, but I'd like to see you all again.


C: Oh! How cute, Sarah! I'm very happy that you remembered us. After you left the retreat, we made another new friend, Blakely, who works at the retreat. We'll call her, and she'll take care of everything.


S: One more thing you need to know, Collene: I'm not alone. I'm bringing Flora with me!


C: Alright! But who is Flora?


S: She's my girlfriend! I told her about the retreat and all of you; she is very curious and excited to meet everyone. I want to surprise her if possible. I told her that it would be unlikely that we would all be able to meet on such short notice.


C: When do you plan to go?


S: On the 23rd, you can all join us on Friday for the weekend. We would like to have some time alone before everyone arrives.


C: Oh, I understand, and you're in luck, Sarah! Pat and Terry planned to visit us that weekend. Instead, we'll all go to Kings Mountain. You will meet my sister Judy, my friend Leigh, and their husbands too.


S: That's wonderful, Collene. It will be so good to see you all again. Talking to you and Pat changed my life. I really want to give you a hug.


C: Oh, that's sweet, Sarah, but it wasn't anything. That's how Pat and I are; we are good at talking to people, and we like to help. Let's call Blake and make our reservations.


Collene makes a three-way call to the retreat. The phone rings, and Blake answers it. Blake's orthodontic braces give her a strong lisp, and Sarah has trouble understanding her speech, but Collene is used to it.


B: Good morning, Kings Mountain Retreat. I'm Blakely; how can I help you?


Collene introduces Sarah, and Blake gets excited when she hears Collene's voice. Collene explains the whole situation, with Blake making the necessary reservations for their accommodations. Blake was excited to meet Sarah after hearing so much about her. The call to Blake ends, and Collene and Sarah continue to talk.


S: That girl sure is hard to understand. What's going on with her?


C: Blake is undergoing major orthodontic treatment, and she also needs to wear braces on her legs and back. The poor thing had a really hard time at first. We've talked to her, and she's doing really well now. She'll probably be working when you and Flora arrive. You won't lose it when you see her special back brace, which also has an attachment to help align her teeth.


S: I won't, but it seems like everyone you know is wearing some type of orthodontic appliance, orthopedic braces, or casts. It's okay; it's not weird for me anymore, thanks to you, Billy, and Julie.


C: Well, birds of a feather... Speaking of which, since you were so understanding about Billy wearing braces when he met you, I really need to tell you about my sister Judy and my friend Leigh. Even if you can't understand it, I hope at least you and Flora can accept it.


Collene goes on to explain how her sister and her friend 'let go of their legs.' She also talks about how everyone loves wearing orthodontic braces and that they even have some 'extras' in their mouths that they don't really need. Sarah thinks about Julie and José, their love of casts, her conversation with Billy, and the fact that Flora let Julie put a cast on her leg. Sarah really struggles to try to understand why people would want to be disabled or wear braces they don't need, but she accepts it and knows Flora will too. After ending the call with Sarah, Collene sends a message to everyone.


"Big change of plans for our weekend together! I just spoke to Sarah, and we will all be meeting her and her girlfriend Flora at Kings Mountain Retreat instead of our previous plans. We called Blake and made the reservations; she's going to have everything ready for our arrival. Oh, by the way, Flora really wants to meet us, especially Pat and me. Sarah wants to surprise Flora, so she said we weren't available and that we wouldn't be able to come, so it will be a total surprise for her when we arrive.


******


California - Kings Mountain Retreat...


Sarah and Flora enjoyed their long and comfortable flight across the country. The Delta One cabin was spacious and luxurious; it was the most pleasant domestic flight they had ever taken. Sarah even took off her prosthetic legs to make herself a little more comfortable, and Flora took advantage of the fully reclining seats. Upon disembarking, an SUV with a driver was waiting for them, so they began the journey to Kings Mountain Retreat with great joy.


When Sarah and Flora approached the large, rustic doors of the main lodge, they opened automatically. Flora entered, with Sarah walking confidently beside her. Sarah was no longer trying to hide prosthetics from view; in fact, she now showed them off by wearing a wool skirt that covered her stumps and showed off her electronic knees. Despite the cold weather, Sarah was comfortable; there was no need to keep metal and plastic warm. Flora was dressed for the cold, with a much longer skirt, her legs crossed, and her high black boots standing out. Both women looked radiant and self-assured. Blake stares in surprise at the two women heading towards her.


"Good morning. My name is Blakely. How can I help you?" Blake said in her lispy voice.


The bands on her teeth glistened in the sunlight streaming in through the large windows. Sarah rested her right hand on the counter and couldn't help but notice Blake's Kuehnegger brace with orthodontic attachment.


"Hello, we have a reservation. My name's Murphy... Sarah Murphy." Sarah says as Flora smiles, remembering their previous line of work.


"Oh yeah, you're friends with Collene and Pat! We talked on the phone." Blake rushes out from behind the counter. Sarah and Flora observe Blake's leg braces as she approaches and hugs Sarah. "Oh, this must be Florentina. Collene told me about you." Blake shakes Flora's hand.


"Hello Blake! You can call me Flora." Flora smiles sympathetically then  gives Sarah a furious look, who suppresses a smile. Sarah turns her attention to Blake.


"Well, that was a nice greeting, Blakely. I'm feeling very welcomed." Sarah says with a smile.


"I'm sorry; sometimes I get emotional. Collene helped me when I got all these braces, kind of like she helped you, Sarah." Blake pauses and looks at Sarah's prosthetic legs. "Everything is in order; here are your special cordless phones. You've been here before, Sarah, so you know how it all works. I'll ask the bellman to get your bags. Oh, please, call me Blake; that's what my friends call me." Blake was so excited to have met the person Collene and Pat talked so much about.


The bellman arrived, and Sarah and Flora thanked Blake. He took them outside to a jitney with their bags in the back, then they crossed a path that took them to their cabin. It was one of four in an isolated compound with a small, central lodge. The bellman placed the bags inside their cabin, and said goodbye with a friendly smile, then they started to unpack their bags. Flora was impressed; everything was rustic, but at the same time, everything was modern. The interior was warm, and Sarah and Flora took off their coats. In a short time, they were already comfortable in their cabin, which would be their home, isolated and peaceful for the following week.


"Hey girl. I wonder why they gave us this cabin. You told me it would be more secluded and private. There are other cabins here and that big building, too," Flora asks curiously.


"This was the most secluded place available. Don't worry; when I made the reservation, Blake said the other cabins would be unoccupied, plus we could use that private central lodge. There's a small gym there; I know you like working out, and I could join you." Sarah explains, not revealing the real reason for their accommodations.


"You hate working out. I bet you'll just watch me sweat." Flora crosses her arms and, without noticing, her muscles grow.


Sarah observes the contrast in her girlfriend's body: the upper part has firm and defined muscles, and the lower part is soft and without muscle tone. Sarah was also looking forward to seeing Flora wearing leggings and a gym top. She was always excited to see Flora working out with sweat running down her body.


After settling down, they relax for a few minutes. Sarah looked tired, but Flora was excited. She didn't go across the country to sleep; she got ready and asked Sarah to do the same and take a walk to get to know the place.
 

Dinner was announced at the main lodge, and they waited for a table. Sarah was exhausted and leaned on Flora's wheelchair. As she did this, Sarah remembered Pat and what he would say if he saw that scene. Sarah released the wheelchair and stood next to Flora, hand in hand, with a firm and confident stance; now Pat would be proud.


After the meal, the girls returned to their cabin. Sarah was desperate to remove her prosthetic legs; her stumps were hurting. They changed into something more comfortable, and Flora offered to massage her stumps, but Sarah refused. She had spent the whole day wearing her prosthetics, and she was exhausted, simply wanting to go to bed. Flora connected the charger to Sarah's prosthetics and got in bed. Despite being tired and her stumps hurting, Sarah and Flora had quite the romantic night.
 

Over the next few days, the girls just enjoyed the silence of their cabin and went on several long walks in the forest. One night, a layer of early autumn snow fell, making everything so beautiful. They also took painting classes. Flora is a natural artist, using the right brushes and mixing colors. They enjoyed great meals, often having romantic dinners at their cabin. It was a relaxing and happy time for the girls, free from the stress and pressures of the real world. But between the mountain pleasures and the romantic atmosphere, there were also more serious moments. One night, while sitting on the floor under a blanket near the fireplace and enjoying hot chocolate, the conversation took on a more serious tone.


"So, ever since we got back together, I've always wanted to ask you a question: what was the hardest thing or biggest regret for you, Sarah?" Flora asks, looking very serious.


“Wow, I didn’t expect that question. Well... Maybe seeing Julie in the hospital with all those casts and in a lot of pain. She sacrificed so much to save our lives. Things could have turned out so badly for all of us; we could easily have all been killed. It's good that she has José in her life to take care of her now; they love each other very much." Tears come to Sarah's eyes as she remembers the night in London where they almost lost their lives.
 

"No, not that, Sarah; we both feel bad for Julie and are thankful for her sacrifice. I meant the hardest thing when you lost your legs." Flora asks as she too thinks about Julie, and she wipes away her tears as they start to flow.


"Ah, about that? Well... When you were shot, I stayed with you; I would have done anything for you. But then... then you... and I... I regret not insisting... I regret leaving that hospital room and not staying and fighting for you!" Sarah looks into space.


"I'm sorry, I don't..." Flora can't finish; tears run down her face. Sarah continues:


"But... the most difficult situation when I lost my legs was not having you by my side! I had to face everything alone. Without you, without legs, without a job, I had nothing, no one." Sarah wipes away her tears and stares at the fire in the fireplace. "I became depressed; I didn't eat, and I could only cry. In the hospital, I wished to die a few times." Sarah feels Flora's hand on her shoulder.


"I'm sorry, my love; I shouldn't have asked you these things to make you remember these difficult moments." Flora hugs and rests her head on Sarah's shoulder.


"That's why I wanted to come back here, to be able to meet the people who helped me overcome all this pain and give me a reason to move forward." Sarah lets out a long sigh.


"I understand; they are important to you. I wish I could meet your friends. I want to thank them for taking care of you when it should have been me!" Flora wipes the tears from her face.


"Now I feel entitled to ask you the same question." Sarah also didn't know what Flora went through.


"Well... For me? Pushing you away is my biggest regret, my love! We're both so stubborn, I thought I'd never see you again. When James told me you lost your legs, I cried for days. I tried to locate you; I went to the agency and to your old apartment, but I didn't find anything—you just disappeared. I wanted more than anything in this world to be with you, to comfort you, and to take care of you like you tried to do for me. I'm so sorry, Sarah." More tears flowed, then Flora changed her expression, and a smile appeared on her face.


"Why are you smiling?" Sarah asks as she wipes away the tears running down her face.


"Because we're together again. I love you so much, Sarah." Flora gets closer to Sarah and hugs her tightly. "I'll never let you out of my life again, girl."


"I will never leave you. I promise, no matter what happens, Flora. We can't forget the people who helped us be here: Pat and Collene for getting me out of my depression, and James for convincing me to accept the mission I was given that brought us together once again, and the sacrifice Julie made to save our lives—it all got us to where we are now." Sarah says seriously but lovingly.


"I really wish they were here; they must have so many stories. It would be cool if we could tell them everything, but I know we can't." Flora looks into Sarah's eyes, and they kiss. When the kiss ended, Sarah said:


“Sometimes wishes come true.” Sarah wipes Flora's face and smiles warmly at her.


There was no lovemaking that night, just talking. Talking about everything that happened in their lives, with a few more tears and a lot of laughs along the way. The worst change in their lives was not the accidents that gave them permanent marks; the worst change was the breakup of their relationship years ago. Now, Sarah and Flora were together and happy once again. Nothing and no one would ever separate them.


The girls slept well that night, without a care in the world, after getting to know each other even better. The next morning, when they got up, they put on their coats and went for a tasty breakfast. Sarah asked about Flora's plans and what she would like to do, but she never mentioned that they would soon no longer be alone.

Ch. 179 - Sarah & Flora III

By: JotaBSP and NapaCaster
 

 

In another time, Flora would have been upset with Sarah for leaving her alone with unknown and strange people. Sarah had realized that Flora was comfortable with her new friends and wouldn't mind if she left. Thus forming two groups: Sarah with the boys and the bus, and Flora with the girls and the braces.
 
 
Understanding the situation, Collene, Judy, and Leigh try to keep Flora busy; they tell her about some of their adventures and their love of casts and braces. Judy takes out her cell phone and shows some photos of them wearing large fiberglass casts and different kinds of braces. Flora is fascinated; she thinks of Julie and wishes she were there. Julie would certainly know the names of all those casts and braces.
 

Collene also comments on her recent adventure wearing leg casts, something she had never done before for pleasure. Leigh doesn't want to be left out and talks about some adventures with Joel. Flora was impressed with so many adventures and the lifestyle they lead, with casts of all sizes. Flora maintained her composure and tried to control her desire to look at the girls' braces. She was betrayed a few times by her own curiosity, which made her have some memories and some thoughts. Collene, Judy, and Leigh notice that Flora is silently looking at their legs.
 

"They may not be useful, but they're still beautiful." Judy comments, taking her left leg and placing it over her right knee.
 

"You're right, Judy. We are all very beautiful women." Flora pauses, thinking about her next words. "So let me see if I understand correctly: have you and Leigh somehow made your legs weak and useless, like Collene and I, who are actually paralyzed?" Flora smiles as she asks a question that she considers strange, but it didn't offend the girls.
 

"That's right. I wore a series of braces and casts for many months and allowed my legs to become weak and atrophied. I even sleep in a special brace that immobilizes my legs, hips, back, and neck—everything except my arms." Leigh states naturally, and Judy adds:
 

"I wore my sister's old braces all the time for several years, even to bed. Now my legs are as useless as hers, especially after Billy made me all my custom braces."
 

"You both became crippled by choice? Voluntarily? That's very peculiar, but the most important thing is that you are happy," Flora says in an understanding voice. "I've been looking at Leigh's braces; they look different, I mean, compared to Judy's and yours, Collene." Flora comments.
 
 
"Great observation Flora, Leigh uses a HKAFO-Milwaukee brace; in fact, she wears one large brace from head to toe. Judy and I wear three braces, one on each leg and one for our spines; Leigh's braces are all connected. Leigh, why don't you show Flora your brace? It's one of Billy's masterpieces." Collene looks at Leigh and smiles.
 

Leigh gives a slight smile as she unlocks her hips, which have been supporting her as she sits, takes her crutches, and stands up. Flora hears Leigh's knees and hips lock rigidly in place. Leigh makes the entire movement as slow as she can for Flora to see.
 

"What was the clicking?" Flora asks curiously and still watches carefully.
 

"These are the locks on my hips and knees; they're completely locked now, and I'm immobilized, so I can walk now, swinging through on my crutches." Leigh approaches Flora, leaves one crutch aside, leans on the other, and lifts her dress, showing how her device is made.
 

"I remember seeing someone wearing a brace like that in the hospital, but it didn't extend up to their neck like yours does. I asked if I could wear a brace, but the doctors said it wouldn't be possible." Flora lets out a long sigh. "It's a shame; I wish I could stand up and look Sarah in the eyes." A tear appears in Flora's eye. She has no illusions of walking again, but she misses being able to stand up to hug Sarah and look into her beautiful eyes.
 

"I don't understand, Flora. Why couldn't you wear an orthopedic device, one that would allow you to stand and even walk?" Collene asks confused.
 
 
"When I was in rehab, I saw some patients training with leg braces, so I asked when I would get mine." Flora tells the story of discouragement. "The doctor said that wouldn't happen for me because I don't have control of my hip I couldn't even simply stand with crutches. But look at Leigh; she can stand and move on crutches why can't I?" Flora wipes away a tear.
 

"This is nonsense!" Judy comments angrily.
 

"That's what I thought; I would never stand up again, and walking seemed impossible. I just wanted to be able to just stand up; that's all, and I would be happy." More tears stream down Flora's face. "Maybe they didn't want to go to the trouble of making a device or spending their time just to get a cripple to stand up."
 

"Don't be like that, Flora... Listen; I don't know if you believe in destiny, but I'm starting to believe it now." Collene comments, trying to cheer Flora up. "Billy just designed a new type of brace for people like you but we haven't found anyone who can use it yet. I need my spine fully supported because of my scoliosis, and  my upper body is extremely weak. With your strong upper body and level of paralysis, you are the perfect candidate for the new orthosis." Collene pauses briefly and notices the sparkle in Flora's eyes. "We'll talk to Billy when he gets back." Collene is sure that Billy can help Flora with more than just standing; she will be able to walk again.
 
 
******
 
 
The doors of the lodge open, and Sarah and the boys enter, talking.
 
 
"It's an amazing bus, Joel. Your guys did a great job; I'd love to be able to take a ride in it." Sarah is very impressed and excited. "But with these prosthetics, it will be difficult."
 

"Thanks, Sarah. I'll tell Paul and Rose; they did most of the work." Joel is proud of his friends' work. "Today's buses are more modern, with hydraulic steering and automatic transmission, but we like to restore old models.
 

"No doubt, but these old models are the most beautiful." Sarah's comment makes everyone agree.
 

When they get close to the girls, Sarah notices that Flora is wiping her face with her hands. Everyone approaches and sits next to their wives. Flora tries to hide it with a smile, but Sarah realizes that she was crying. Before Sarah can act, Flora takes her hand and reassures her that nothing happened. Collene starts a conversation with Billy, and everyone ends up paying close attention:
 

"Billy, do you think that the electronic RGO brace you've been working on would work well for Flora?" Collene asks excitedly.
 

"I think that she would be perfect. You're a T-9, aren't you Flora?" Billy asks, sounding excited.
 

"Yes, I am." Flora passes her hands along the abdominal line, where the sensation stops. Sarah just watches, confused.
 

"If you have a few more days, you two can come home with us; there you can try it, Flora." Billy hopes to see Flora walking with her device.
 

"Sarah, can you reschedule our flight home?" Flora asks, full of hope. "It would mean a lot to me... To us!" Flora can't hide her excitement.
 

"But I don't know what's going on here. What the hell is an RGO brace?" Sarah asks, still confused.
 

Everyone laughs, and Sarah turns red with embarrassment. Billy explains to Sarah that an RGO is an orthodpedic device that allows someone who is paralyzed to walk, but the one he designed is special. It is extremely streamlined and electronically controlled, and it should provide an almost normal gait. After finishing the explanation, Sarah looks at all her braced friends around her, then she meets Pat's eyes.
 

"Don't tell me you already knew about this RGO thing?" Sarah asks Pat, trying not to be the only one who didn't know.
 

"Well... I've known about them for a long time, but the one Billy designed is special, Sarah." Pat responds, trying not to embarrass Sarah even more.
 

Sarah turns her attention back to Flora; she looked so excited. Sarah noticed Flora's lips moving without making a sound, but she understood the word on Flora's lips: "Please!" Everyone looked at Sarah and waited for an answer from her.
 

"Alright! I'll call and make arrangements." Sarah responds with a smile, and everyone cheers up.
 

"Thank you, my love! I'll tell you everything later... In our cabin." Flora smiles and squeezes Sarah's hand affectionately.
 

"Hey Sarah, it looks like you two are going to get to travel in the old Brill, too." Joel comments, making Sarah break into a wide smile.
 

Flora looks at Sarah, still smiling. She restrains herself from giving Sarah a kiss in front of her friends, but she can't help but dream of being able to stand up and hug Sarah with all her strength.
 
 
******
 

 The next morning, everyone is dressed up for Sunday brunch. Sarah and Flora don't usually dress up to go out; they prefer casual attire. Today was different, and they took the time to dress up and put a little more effort into their hair and makeup. It was worth the effort. Enjoying another meal with old and new friends was amazing; everyone was in a good mood. Collene, Judy, and Leigh, with their braces and crutches and their adoring husbands by their sides, with Pat and Terry sitting next to Sarah and Flora. Everyone was talking randomly, then Pat started a conversation with Sarah:
 

"I need to tell you something, Sarah." Pat begins in a low voice.
 

"Please go ahead, Pat." Sarah turns and looks into Pat's eyes with concern.
 

"Don't worry, Sarah; I just wanted to say that I'm so happy for you. That you've overcome your disability and have accepted who you are now, and that you have a beautiful woman by your side." Pat comments with sincerity and an infectious smile. Sarah turns and hugs Pat, making everyone stop their conversations to look at the two.
 

"Thanks Pat! I'm really happy, too. I don't know where I would be today if it weren't for you and Collene." Sarah smiles and leans in to kiss Pat on the cheek in thanks. Everyone seemed extremely curious to know what they were talking about.
 

After brunch, it was time to leave, and everyone packed their bags. Joel and Jimmy put their bags on the bus, then, with a wave, Joel called everyone to board the bus. Each husband helped his wife, and Flora looked at Sarah with concern. Terry took the initiative and asked how he could help Flora. Sarah felt relieved and thanked Terry, while Flora explained how she preferred to be carried. Sarah didn't feel jealous of Terry because he was assisting Flora; however, she was jealous of his ability to do so. Sarah wanted to do it herself; unfortunately, that was no longer possible with her prosthetic legs. They would just end up on the ground. For Flora, it was a little strange to have Terry do this; Julie was the only person who had ever helped her like this before, but in Terry's arms, Flora was not afraid of falling.
 

The bus ride was pleasant, but the group was still curious about Sarah and Flora. Pat couldn't help himself.
 

"I have to ask you something, Flora." Pat creates suspense, and Collene is extremely worried. "You have a slight accent; I can't identify it. Where are you from?" Pat asks curiously; everyone had already noticed, but no one took the opportunity to ask. Sarah looks at Flora with a smile, waiting for her answer.
 

"Well... I'm from Bergamo, close to Milan!" Flora noticed all the eyes on her; everyone was surprised.
 
 
"It is a beautiful city!" Terry comments. Now everyone was looking at him. "A long time ago, on an excursion with some friends, it was there that I had the best wine of my life." Terry comments with a wide smile.
 

"Wow... We have an Italian on board." Joel jokes.
 

"I was living in Rome; now I live with Sarah in New York." Flora explains and feels Sarah's hand squeezing hers affectionately.
 

The conversation was so pleasant that Sarah and Flora didn't realize which direction they were going; time didn't matter either. In less than two hours, the bus was stopping in front of Collene and Billy's home. Terry once again helped Flora off the bus and placed her in her wheelchair. Collene and Billy settled the girls into the guest house, and Pat and Terry got settled with Leigh and Joel. Collene said to come over for a casual dinner at six.
 
 
******


The next morning, Sarah and Flora joined everyone for breakfast at Leigh's house. After the meal, Terry went to the bus shop with the boys. Collene and Billy went to open the orthotics shop, and the rest of the girls and Pat got into Leigh's small bus, following Billy and Collene.
 

Everyone entered the shop: the girls in their braces and on crutches, Flora rolling around in her wheelchair, and Sarah leaning on Pat's arm. It wasn't new to the others, but Sarah and Flora were impressed. There was a large waiting room with sofas and chairs. On one wall was artwork done by local disabled artists, some of which was for sale. On another wall, there were photos of satisfied clients, all of whom seemed very happy. It didn't take long until they reached one wall that was entirely dedicated to prosthetics and orthoses for various disabilities and amputations, made of plastic or carbon fiber, for adults and children, most with all the metal exposed. There was also a complete arm and leg, which looked very real; they sent a shiver down Sarah's spine.


"Billy, what are these two here?" Sarah asks, still surprised. Billy approaches.


"They are realistic prosthetics for people who don't like showing off their prosthetics." Billy points to Sarah's prosthetic legs. "There are some people who try to trick their own brain; most of them are just aesthetic, while others can be fully functional." Billy explains and gives a tour of the shop.


After showing the shop, Billy guides the girls inside and into a room that looks like a doctor's office. Billy explained the procedure: he would need to make molds of Flora's legs and a scan of her body so he could make some custom pieces for her RGO. Judy and Leigh took over the office so Collene could assist Billy. Flora was lying on the casting table, and Sarah and Pat watched Billy work.


"You talked about your friend Julie having fun with casts, so you know all about how they are made. These will be a little different. No padding will be used; I need to get an exact mold of your legs." Billy explains the procedure and begins casting Flora's legs with plaster bandages.


"Alright, I know the procedure well." Flora replied as Billy got to work. "Hey Sarah, do you know who would like to be here?"


"Oh my God! Julie!" Sarah quickly takes out her cell phone, takes lots of photos, and even makes a video. Minutes later, Billy was done.


"It's okay, Flora; they just need to dry a little, then I'll carefully remove your casts." Billy prepares the 3D scanner for the next step. Flora wishes she could feel the casts getting warm on her legs. Flora recently had to wear a cast on her entire left arm. She knows the pleasant warmth when a cast dries.


Now sitting on the table, Flora observes her two legs in plaster. There was no volume; in fact, they seemed even more atrophied. Then Flora remembered something:


"I was talking to Sarah a few days ago, and she needs a new pair of prosthetics; could you do it, Billy?" Flora tries to imitate Sarah's pleading look.


"What?" Sarah is surprised. "It's not time, Flora; Billy is very busy. This takes time, and we have to schedule it in advance." Sarah didn't want to burden Billy.
 

"It's okay, Sarah. She's right Flora, this may take a while, but I can do it. I just need to make molds of her stumps and take some measurements. When her new prosthetics are finished, I can send them by mail." Billy responds excitedly. "We can do this now; while Flora's plaster dries, what do you say, Sarah?" Billy looked anxious.


"Come on, girl, look at me. Don't be a coward." Flora points to her two legs in plaster and encourages Sarah.


"Okay, okay!" Sarah agrees and sits next to Flora at the table.


Sarah unlocks her prosthetic legs and hands them to Billy, then removes her liners. While Billy applied the plaster to the stumps, Sarah explained what she would like the new prosthetics to look like: completely mechanical, nothing electronic, and easy to maintain. Collene writes everything down in a notebook, and she also takes some photos of Sarah's current prosthetics, then takes some measurements. Sarah gives Pat her cell phone and asks him to take some photos of the two girlfriends together, with plaster casts on their legs and stumps.


Before long, Billy was removing Flora's casts and was pleased with the result; then he did the same for Sarah. Billy explained that Sarah's prosthetics would take some time, but he would soon have Flora's RGO ready since it is already almost complete. While Billy talked, Sarah put her prosthetics back on, and he explained how Flora's body would now be scanned and that she would receive light traction on her spine. This procedure was carried out quickly; Flora enjoyed the feeling of being in traction, and for a moment she wished she was alone in that room with Sarah. Meanwhile, Sarah and Pat watched silently the entire time.


"Well, it'll take me the rest of the day and late into the night, but your RGO will be ready tomorrow, Flora. Why don't you guys go out and have some fun for the rest of the day?" Billy will work hard to finish the device; he believes that by this time tomorrow, Flora will have taken her first steps since her injury.


"We will. Thank you very much, Billy." Flora thanked him and looked at Sarah, who was smiling.


Everyone went to the office, while Billy carried the molds of Flora and Sarah to the workshop. Leigh offered to take Collene's place in the office so she could spend the day with the girls and Pat. Everyone said goodbye to Leigh and got on the small bus to go back to Collene's house.
 

******
 

On the way home, Collene had an idea...
 

"How about we go to the shooting range? You said you would shoot with me one day, Sarah! Guess what? Today is that day." Collene wasn't asking; she was too excited.


"I remember and I would really like that, Collene." Sarah responds naturally, while Flora looks confused but likes the idea.


Arriving at Collene's house, she says she has some weapons she can lend to Sarah and Flora.


"We have our own guns; can we shoot them?" Sarah asks without disrespecting the hostess.


"But of course you two can use your own weapons." Collene looks at Pat and Judy, also surprised. "I never imagined you two were carrying your weapons."


"Well... We can." Sarah responds naturally, as if it's no big deal.


Pat seemed intrigued, and Collene and Judy knew that it wasn't normal for people to carry their own weapons across the country, unless it was the Feds. The gears in Pat's head start turning; something is strange, so he decides to just watch Sarah and Flora more closely. Everyone went to get their own weapons with Collene and Judy returning in their wheelchairs to be more comfortable while shooting.
 

******
 

Now Flora was no longer the only one in a wheelchair, and everyone was carrying a small case. Sarah and Pat were walking further behind, and when they arrived at the range, everyone was taking pistols out of their foam-lined cases. Collene knows a lot about firearms, and she immediately recognizes Flora's pistol.


"Wow! I've never seen a Walther PDP in person. How cool!" Collene hopes to get the chance to shoot it.


"Sarah and I both have a Glock G23 .40 caliber at home, but I decided to bring this with me." Flora is excited to shoot.


"It's not yet common these days and is quite desirable; it's an excellent firearm. I imagine it has served you well." Collene comments, and Flora is impressed with her knowledge. "And you, Sarah, what did you bring?


"I've had this one since I was… in the military." Sarah almost says too much but manages to correct herself. "Since you are always shooting, you have an advantage. I didn't shoot anymore after I lost my legs." Sarah is telling the truth. The pieces are falling into place in Pat's head.


"Wow... Hey Judy, check this out. A stainless Beretta 92fs and it looks to be a bit customized; very nice." Collene and Judy are impressed.


"It's just a gun, girls; relax. What did you bring?" Sarah reassures the sisters, smiles at Flora, and tries not to show her excitement.


Collene opens the case sitting in her lap, revealing a Smith and Wesson K-38 Target Masterpiece. Sarah raises her eyebrows in surprise but remains silent, as does Pat, who was just observing. Flora is deeply interested in Collene's revolver. She loves classic revolvers.


"Oh wow, the K-38 Target Masterpiece! I've always wanted to fire one of those." Flora, like Collene, has a desire to fire her friend's pistol.


"It was made in 1950, but looks like new, Flora." Collene brags. Now all the attention goes to Judy and her small suitcase on her lap. She opens it slowly, creating suspense.


When Judy opens the case that contains her revolver Sarah recognizes it immediately and can no longer remain silent.


"Holy shit! A Manurhin MR-73! Where did you get that, Judy? I saw one when I worked with... when I visited the Gendarmerie museum in Paris." Sarah corrects herself as she remembers a work mission with the GIGN.
 

"I thought you didn't know much about firearms, Sarah." Collene is curious about Sarah's knowledge.


"Not really; I read a lot of action stories and always look up the cars and weapons mentioned." Sarah makes an excuse, but Pat finds it strange that Sarah recognized the gun immediately; it looks almost exactly like a regular Smith and Wesson revolver. For someone who said they were just weapons, Sarah is now very excited.


Sarah offers her Beretta to Pat to shoot. He only has the ammunition in the magazine of the KelTec P3AT that he carries as a bank executive. Sarah gave Pat a brief explanation of how it works, and he shot an excellent group despite not being used to the recoil and size.


Then Judy and Collene took turns, competing fiercely with each other, as the sisters always do. Then they exchanged revolvers to try to outdo each other with their own pistols. In the end, they were tied; the sisters are equal today and challenged Flora to do better. Flora took her turn; she loaded her Walther PDP, and everyone went silent. Flora was concentrating as she aimed at the target, maintaining a firm posture as she fired. She then surpassed the sisters; they happily congratulated their friend, but Sarah couldn't stand it and bent down to hug Flora.


"Very good, Flora; congratulations!" Pat applauds and congratulates Flora happily. Now everyone is looking at Sarah.


"What? You guys still want me to shoot?" Sarah tries to hide her excitement.


"Come on, Sarah, we want to see you shoot." Judy comments, cheering Sarah up.


"No one will laugh if you miss." Collene tries to reassure Sarah and Flora suppresses a laugh, which Pat notices.


"Okay! I've never been good with a pistol, and it's been a long time since I've shot." Sarah wants to show off a little at this point, as everyone thinks she is inexperienced.
 

Sarah pretends to have difficulty with the magazine as she inserts it into the pistol. It takes some time for her to assume a comfortable posture; she has never fired a gun while wearing her prosthetics. Now Sarah feels comfortable standing almost sideways with her right side facing the target, an unusual stance for Collene and Judy to see someone take while shooting a modern pistol. Sarah fixes her glasses with her left hand and keeps the pistol pointed at the ground in her right hand. She faces the target and unlocks the safety. In silence, everyone waits for Sarah's next move. She takes a deep breath, and in one quick movement, she raises her Beretta and starts shooting without seeming to take aim. Fifteen shots rang out in rapid succession. The target now had a jagged hole, the size of a silver dollar—the best group of the day.


"Wow... I can't believe you lied to me! You're an excellent shot, Sarah." Collene was amazed; Judy, Pat, and her had never seen anything like this before. Collene looks at the target and then at Sarah, not believing what she just witnessed. Flora smiles and winks at her girlfriend.


"I'm sorry, Collene. When we first met, you said you liked shooting and that I really wanted to shoot with you. I thought I couldn't do any of the things I used to do. Things were different back then; I was a different Sarah—a Sarah I didn't want to be. Now, thanks to you and Pat, I'm here with Flora and all of you." Sarah explains, remembering everything that happened in the last few months. Flora smiles and looks fondly at Sarah.


"You're amazing, Sarah, and you've surprised us all. What else are you hiding from me, Sarah?" Collene asks curiously, no longer controlling her tongue.


"If I tell you, I'll have to kill you!" Sarah says, smiling. Flora dropped her smile and became serious.


"That sounds like spy stuff!" Collene jokes while looking scared. Flora looks at Sarah worriedly.


"Maybe I was one!" Sarah blinks. Flora hides her face with her hands.
 

"I prefer you as a teacher!" Collene responds with a slight smile. Pat watched the conversation and Flora's reactions carefully.


"Me too, my friend!" Sarah gives Collene a hug.


With Sarah's comments, almost saying what she shouldn't and correcting herself, her knowledge of firearms, her technique, and the target destroyed, Pat's mind is going a thousand miles an hour.


The friends continue target practice, with everyone trying out each other's pistols. They had a lot of fun with Sarah and Flora giving instructions to the others. Soon, everyone improved their marksmanship skills, with Sarah and Flora taking pride in their friends' skills. However, it was getting late, so they cleaned and oiled the weapons.
 

On the way back home, Collene lets everyone go ahead and stays behind with Sarah.


"You are an excellent shot, an incredible teacher, and a great friend. Thank you, Sarah." Collene is grateful for all these pleasant moments with her friend.


"You and Pat have a special place in my heart." Sarah bends down and hugs Collene, feeling her back brace. Sarah is afraid of hurting her friend. "I love you both so much. Thank you."


Upon entering Collene's house, everyone goes to their rooms, puts away their weapons, and returns to the living room. Together again, they plan the next step:
 

"So... I remember someone saying they like cooking." Judy comments, looking at Pat.


"Yes, and even better, this someone is Italian." Pat joins in the fun.


"What? No!" Collene gets upset. "Flora is our guest; let's order something to be delivered here." Collene apologizes for Judy and Pat's bad manners.


"It's okay, Collene; I love cooking, and I don't mind. In fact, I don't want you to just talk about how well Sarah shoots. You'll also say how well Flora cooks!" Flora jokes, making everyone laugh. "But for the dish to be perfect, I need a bottle of wine. Come on, Collene, show me what you have in your kitchen."
 

Collene rolls into her kitchen, and Flora follows, leaving Sarah, Judy, and Pat in the living room. Judy apologizes; she was feeling a little tired and wanted to take a hot bath, so she headed home. Sarah and Pat sit on the couch alone.
 

"You know Sarah; I know everyone here, and they are wonderful people." Pat looks around and turns to Sarah. "Do you know why they are happy?"
 

"You're trying to tell me something. If I say they're happy because of their braces, you're going to tell me I'm wrong." Sarah responds, she is worried about the direction the conversation is taking.


"Hey, don't worry." Pat touches Sarah's shoulder. "You're right, they're not happy because of their braces. They're happy because they don't have to hide who they are!" Pat notices Sarah looking away.


"It's complicated, Pat!" Sarah responds by looking at her hands in her lap.


"I see the battle you're fighting. You're not just hiding from us; somehow I feel like you're protecting us." Pat comments. Sarah keeps her head down, looking at her hands, and now her fingers are fidgeting.


"There are things that are better left unsaid; not everyone would understand." Sarah tries to respond without revealing the truth.


"You weren't a Marine anymore when you lost your legs, but you were still serving our country?" Pat says, and Sarah just nods and confirms silently. "Okay, FBI?" Sarah shakes her head and denies it. Pat watches Sarah with her head down, moving the fingers of her hands; she is nervous. "You were CIA!" Sarah's fingers stop. She stands up and looks Pat in the eyes.


"I can neither confirm nor deny!" Sarah gives him a slight smile.


"Only a CIA agent would say that!" Pat smiles.


"Please, Pat, you..." Pat interrupts Sarah.
 

"Don't worry, I won't tell anyone." Pat tries to reassure. Sarah becomes serious again and raises her eyebrows. "Not even for Terry, I promise."


"Alright! So, how are you feeling now?" Sarah asks curiously.


"I'm fine; everything makes sense now, and most of all, I feel safe." Pat responds proudly. Sarah slides her body down and relaxes her head on Pat's shoulder. "Wait a minute... Flora, does she know? Is she also a CIA agent?"
 

"I can neither confirm nor deny!" Sarah smiles while hugging Pat.


"Holy crap!" Sarah can feel Pat's excitement. "We're doubly safe."

Ch. 181 - Sarah & Flora V

By: JotaBSP and NapaCaster
 
 

Still in their room, Flora looked radiant, standing and leaning on new forearm crutches, her dress completely concealing her orthosis. Sarah opens the door to their room and finds Flora's wheelchair sitting outside. She thinks about how Pat was a knight, just leaving it there at the door. Sarah takes the wheelchair and helps Flora sit in it. When they arrive in the living room, Pat is sitting on the sofa, playing a game on his cell phone.
 

"Hi Pat, thanks for bringing my wheelchair." Flora thanks him, with Sarah behind her.
 

"It was a pleasure! Are you going out?" Pat asks curiously and notices Sarah looking discouraged, or maybe just very tired, but why? Pat wonders naively, not knowing the pleasures the girls just experienced.
 

"We're going to walk around the property for a bit!" Sarah says without inviting Pat, but he understands and respects it.
 

"That's cool; there's a stream you'll love down by the oaks." Pat suggests, and Sarah and Flora promptly thank him.
 

The girls leave the house and begin their journey. Flora is sitting in her wheelchair, holding her laptop and crutches, and Sarah is behind her and pushing the chair along a trail. The terrain is uneven but accessible, without logs, roots, or rocks, just a packed gravel path.
 

While enjoying nature, Sarah sees some squirrels, and Collene's house has disappeared among the vegetation—a scene that reminded her of the resort. Then the oak trees appeared, showing the colors of autumn, which cheered Sarah up.
 

Sarah continues pushing Flora and appreciating the natural beauty, but suddenly she stops. The two girls are silent, and the sound of the stream can be heard; they were close. The creek is seen, and Sarah stops on the bank at a safe haven.
 

"Pat was right; this is beautiful!" Sarah comments next to Flora, holding her hand.


"Yes, really beautiful!" Flora agrees. "You like him a lot, don't you?" Flora asks curiously.
 

"Who? Pat?" Sarah asks, and Flora just nods. "He's a wonderful friend; I love him, especially because I don't have to keep secrets from him..." Oops, Sarah realizes she said too much.
 
 
"What do you mean? You don't have to keep secrets from him." Flora asks, curious and worried.
 

"Well... He knows we're from the CIA." Sarah confesses without looking at Flora.
 

"What? You're not serious?" Flora asks, confused, and lets go of Sarah's hand.
 

"I didn't tell him anything about any mission; he doesn't need to know that." Sarah tries to alleviate the situation.
 

"Damnit, Sarah, I don't believe it... And you were mad at me for telling Julie!" Flora was irritated.
 

"That's different... He's very smart. I trust Pat; he won't tell anyone. Trust me." Sarah calms the situation.
 

"Okay... But this is the last time we tell anyone, strangers or friends. Okay?" Flora asks, crossing her arms.
 

"Yes ma'am!" Sarah leans in and kisses Flora. "I'm sorry." With that, Flora accepts Sarah's apology.


"Now... How about we put the laptop on that fallen tree and make a call to Julie?" Flora changes the subject.
 

"Was that your plan?" Sarah asks in surprise and puts her hands on her hips; she is relieved that Flora does not extend the discussion about their secret.
 

"Come on, I want to show her what I can do." Flora was happy and anxious.
 

Sarah takes the laptop, puts it on a fallen log, and adjusts the screen; the scene was perfect. Sarah returns and helps Flora get up, and the two girls do a little rehearsal to impress Julie. Everything was ready; the girls were excited and anxious. Sarah connected the laptop and made the call to Julie. While the call connects, Sarah steps back so the camera can take in her entire body, from head to toe, with Flora standing just out of frame. Finally, Julie answers the call.
 

"Hi... Sarah! Where are you?" Julie looked confused, seeing Sarah standing in a completely different setting than last time. The volume on the laptop was at its maximum; Sarah could hear well, as could Flora.
 

"Hey Julie, I know it's late there, but we have a surprise for you!" Sarah comments with a big smile.
 

"Don't worry; José and I are up late tonight. I was trying to play a video game with only one hand; this shoulder spica cast makes things so difficult." Julie takes a long sip from a glass of wine, then sets it on a table next to her bed. "I love surprises; what do you have for me?"
 
 
On the full screen of Flora's laptop, Sarah notices that José has joined the party.
 

"Hello, Sarah. What are you doing in the middle of the forest?" José asks curiously.
 

"It's good to see you, José. Hold Julie so she doesn't fall over from the surprise." Sarah jokes.
 

"Okay, Sarah, you've already made me curious, but where is Flora?" Julie looked anxious.
 

"Oh, do you want to see Flora?" Sarah makes a cliffhanger and continues. "Hey Flora, come here and say hi to Julie and José!" Sarah extends her arm while calling out to Flora.
 

Julie observes Sarah standing in the middle of the screen, with vegetation next to her and a stream in the background. Sarah had her face turned to her right and her arm extended. Suddenly crutches appeared in the corner of the screen, then Flora appeared standing, taking small steps until she was next to Sarah. Julie was really surprised. She looks at José, who was also surprised. She then looks at her glass of wine and then back at the screen in utter disbelief. Flora was standing and walking alone. Sarah hugged Flora, who was now standing next to her, leaning on her crutches.
 

The expression on Julie and José's faces is one of complete bewilderment. Flora then starts walking towards the camera, with Sarah close behind. With Flora's long dress, the orthosis could not be seen; it was completely hidden except for a bit of her shoes.


"How?... Why?... It can't be! Flora, you're walking! How much did I drink tonight, José? I'm seeing things. Is this a dream?" Julie is in shock, feeling a mix of emotions.
 

"I'm seeing it too, Julie. This is incredible; if it's a dream, we're both dreaming the same thing." José can't believe what he's seeing.
 

"It is a dream, Baguette. A dream come true." Flora gets even closer to the laptop and adjusts the camera, framing her head down to her waist. "Billy made me a special brace that allows me to stand and even walk. It's really high-tech; you'll love trying to figure out how it works." Flora was radiant, happy, and had a huge smile. Sarah approaches her and stands beside her.
 

"I myself couldn't believe it when Flora stood up, then she walked over to me and hugged me; all of this was this morning at the orthotics shop. You know how it is for us; Flora is always at a lower level, but here we are standing and looking into each others eyes. It's magical!" Tears come to Sarah's eyes; she hasn't been this happy since she reunited with Flora.
 

"I'm very happy; I wish I could be there with you two. Everything we talked about earlier today, about your friends and how much we'd like to meet them, now I want to thank them for everything they've done for you two." Julie gets emotional and starts crying. José holds Julie's body tightly despite her cast.
 

"I know it's late, so we'll let you rest; we'll call you when we get back to New York. You two take care of yourselves and have a wonderful night. Take care, kids!" Flora jokes, still smiling.


"Goodnight, kids." Sarah says smiling.


"Good night, mommy!" Julie also responds jokingly. "Good evening, Sarah!" Julie and José say in unison.


******

 
Returning to Collene's house, Flora was sitting in her wheelchair again, and Sarah was pushing her. When they entered, Pat was still sitting on the sofa and playing on his cell phone. Pat stops what he was doing and pays attention when Sarah and Flora tell them about the surprise they gave Julie. After a brief conversation, Pat's cell phone rings, and he answers it.
 

"Hi Billy... Yes, she's here; just a moment." Pat extends his arm with his cell phone in his hand. "It's Billy; he wants to talk to you, Sarah." Pat and Flora look curiously at Sarah when she takes out her cell phone.
 

"Hey Billy, what's up?" Sarah asks, also curious.
 

<"Hi Sarah, sorry to disturb you. I had problems with the casts I made of your stumps. Can you come here to redo them?">
 

"Of course, I'll come now!" Sarah doesn't even question the reason for the problem with her casts; it was the least she could do for Billy after what he provided Flora. Sarah hangs up and hands Pat the cell phone.
 

"What happened? Where are you going?" Flora asks worriedly. Pat looks curious.
 

"Something went wrong with my stump casts; I'm going back there to redo them." Sarah walks over to a table where the car keys are. "Stay here; I'll go there alone. It'll be quick." Sarah gives Flora a kiss. "You two behave, and don't talk about the CIA." Sarah leaves with a wide smile and a provocative look on her face, leaving Pat laughing and Flora with her hands on her face in embarrassment.
 

"Okay, Pat... Sarah told me you already know about our little secret." Flora rolls her wheelchair closer to Pat. "You don't want to talk about the CIA, right?" Flora asks without showing interest, trying to discourage Pat.
 

"Sorry, Flora, but I have so many questions." Pat apologizes, but he can't control his curiosity.
 

"Alright, what do you want to know?" Flora asks, still looking disinterested but willing to answer.
 

"Well... where do I start?" Pat looks at the ceiling, trying to organize his thoughts.
 

******
 

Sarah gets into the car without difficulty, and using the hand controls, she drives to the orthotics store. When she arrived and entered the shop, Collene was sitting at her desk in front of a computer screen.
 

"Hi Sarah, Billy told me what happened to your molds. Sorry to bother you." Collene apologizes, while Sarah gets closer.
 

"Stop; it's okay." Sarah was still feeling very grateful. "It's great that I came so I can talk to you alone." Sarah creates suspense.
 

"What happened? Is Flora okay? Did her orthosis break?" Collene looked worried.
 

"Everything's fine; Flora and the brace are fine." Sarah grabs a chair, and without asking, she sits down, facing Collene. "I want to take advantage of the opportunity and pay for Flora's brace." Sarah takes her cell phone out of her pocket.
 

"What? No, Sarah, it was a gift." Collene was taken by surprise. "You don't have to pay anything, please."
 

"Collene, this brace took a lot of time and expense; it's only right that you and Billy are compensated. You have bills to pay." Sarah was being sincere, and she didn't like owing anyone anything. "Come on, give me the amount; I'll transfer it to you."
 

"Okay... Ten dollars!" Collene smiles.
 

Sarah raises an eyebrow and accepts the challenge, then returns her attention to her cell phone. Collene watches Sarah type on her cell phone with a serious expression, and at the end, she gives a slight smile. An audible warning appears on Collene's cell phone; she unlocks the screen, and a notification from her bank appears:

 
<TRANSFER>
<SARAH S. MURPHY>
<$100,000.00>
 

"But... What the fuck, Sarah?" Collene is surprised and upset with Sarah; her unusually strong language emphasizes her shock.
 

"Don't you dare give it back." Sarah responds seriously. "I'll wait for the cost of my prosthetics too."
 

"You are unbelievable. Thank you!" Collene thanks with a smile, showing the braces on her teeth.
 

"Thank you, both of you, for everything!" Sarah smiles. "Now I have an appointment with Billy."
 
 
******
 
 
"... So, that's how I got this scar and became a paraplegic." Flora finishes telling the story of her injury.
 

"Oh Flora, I'm so sorry." Pat was speechless.
 

"That's what happens in this type of work; many don't get a second chance." Flora responds with regret in her voice, remembering some friends she lost.
 

"That's true. It can't be easy going out to work without knowing if you'll come back." Pat takes a long sigh. "You are right to take advantage of your second chance, especially with someone who makes you happy.
 

"Yes, I was very lucky in every way." Flora smiles when she thinks of Sarah.
 

"Sarah is an incredible woman; I love her." Pat pauses briefly and finds the courage to ask. "Did she lose her legs on a mission too?"
 
 
"Unfortunately, yes... But I doubt she'll talk about it with you or anyone else. It was terrible; she suffered a lot." Flora took a deep breath. "That's one of Sarah's problems; she keeps all the pain inside. She doesn't tell anyone what she's feeling, and she suffers alone in silence. She's very closed off, but she's learning to open up to me."
 
 
"When I met her a year ago at the resort, she was a different person, emotionally broken and depressed." Pat remembers his first meeting with Sarah. "We managed to give her a little joy, and seeing her again now, happy, willing, and walking alone, it filled me with joy." Pat comments proudly.
 

"I'm very grateful to all of you for what you did for her." Flora thanks her with tears in her eyes. Pat gets up from the sofa.
 

"Come on, get up so I can hug you." Pat holds out his hands. Flora wipes her eyes with a smile, takes Pat's hands, stands up, and gives him a big hug.
 

******
 

"Hi Sarah, please come in." Billy opens the door to the same room that Sarah and Flora were in before. "I'm sorry to call you back, Sarah; I know you are short on time. I was very focused on Flora's orthosis and just didn't get your casts right; I want your new prosthetics to be perfect." Billy apologizes, and Sarah enters the room and sits on the table.


"Don't worry, Billy; I understand. In fact, I'm happy that you dedicated yourself to Flora's brace; it's working very well, and Flora is very excited. It's not going to be as difficult for me to see Flora sitting in her wheelchair anymore. She can now get up and walk if she desires with the device you made." Sarah comments. Billy smiles wide, showing his braces, with his heart warmed by Sarah's words.


"Okay, Sarah, you know the drill. Take off your prosthetics, and I'll get the supplies." Billy says as he puts on his white coat.


"All right." Sarah agrees, and Billy leaves the room.


Sarah opens the button and zipper on her shorts and removed them. Then she unlocks the socket pins, and removes her prostheses, placing them next to her on the table. Then she removes the silicone liners, and a feeling of relief runs through her body. Sitting on the table in her underwear, she massages both stumps. Sarah closes her eyes, imagining Flora's hands on her soft stumps.


Billy enters the room, breaking Sarah out of her trance. He prepares the material and wraps cling film around her stumps. Billy's touch gives Sarah a few goosebumps. When passing the plaster rolls around the stumps, Billy reached her groin and sometimes brushed against her underwear, which caused some contractions in her stumps. Sarah was enjoying the sensation, even feeling pleasure. Luckily, Billy is a professional. When finished, Billy helped Sarah lie down and wait until the plaster was dry.


Ten minutes later, Billy knocks on the door and opens it. Sarah was still lying down and watching a video on her cell phone about adapted cars.


"So, you are good?" Billy asks, worried about leaving Sarah alone.
 

"I'm fine; I'd have cramps if I had legs." Sarah tries to play with the situation. Billy holds back a grin.


"You'll soon have new legs, Sarah." Billy approaches and touches the hardened plaster. "It looks good now." He removes one mold at a time and carefully analyzes each one.


Billy removes the cling film and throws it in the trash. He goes to a sink and wets a cloth to clean Sarah's stumps. When the wet cloth touches her stumps, Sarah shudders and feels goosebumps all over her body. Sarah has no feelings for Billy; she loves Flora, but she has just discovered an erogenous zone. No matter who touches her stumps, she will feel pleasure in the same way, and this leaves her confused, intrigued, and worried. Billy then takes a clean cloth to dry her stumps, and the torture continues. The whole process is quick, but for Sarah, it seems like hours of pleasure; she was wet and resists the urge to touch her pussy.


Billy helps Sarah sit up and puts on her silicone liners and prosthetics. Billy leaves the room with the casts and leaves Sarah to get dressed. Sarah puts her hand on her chest and feels her strong and accelerated heartbeat. She lifts her t-shirt and bra to see the peaks of her hard, pointy nipples. She is intrigued by her own body and how it reacts without her feeling like it.
 

Sarah leaves the room and walks to the reception area. Collene and Billy were standing and talking, but stopped when Sarah approached.


"Hey Sarah, now I'm sure everything will work!" Billy comments excitedly.


"If it doesn't work out, I'll have Julie make the molds and send them to you." Sarah jokes, making the couple laugh.


"Where are you going, Sarah?" Collene asks curiously.


"I'm going back to your house. I left Flora and Pat alone, and I'm worried." Sarah makes the couple laugh again. "I'm going to stop by a supermarket first; I'm sure Flora will love making dinner again."
 

"Wow... That's great news; I'm already hungry." Billy comments. "Wait until we arrive." Turning to Collene, Billy says, "Collie, stay close to Flora and learn to do what she does."


"I wrote everything down last time." Collene responds by remembering Flora's bolognese pasta.


Sarah says goodbye and hugs her friends. Soon, they will be together again. She reminds Billy once again that he doesn't need to rush with her prosthetics and that he can take his time.
 
 
******


Sarah stops the car in a disabled space at the supermarket. Before getting out of the car, Sarah noticed some curious looks, and some were even waiting to see the girl who had just parked in the disabled space. She was wearing a coat, and her prosthetic legs were exposed, except for a pair of shorts that covered the sockets. When Sarah gets out of the car, she notices that the reactions are mixed, but mainly that no one questioned her for stopping in the disabled parking space.


This was the last night she would spend with her friends. Sarah decided to stay at home rather than go out to eat. She was sure that Flora wouldn't mind making dinner again; it would be another pleasant evening with her friends.
 


Arriving at Collene's house, Sarah hears music playing inside. She opens the door with one hand while holding a paper bag in the other. Sarah is surprised by what she sees—Flora and Pat standing, holding hands, and dancing—one step here and another there. It was the cutest scene Sarah witnessed on the entire trip. Flora sees Sarah over Pat's shoulder:


"Hey girl, come here and dance with us!" Flora says it in a tone higher than the music without stopping moving.


"Are you two drunk?" Sarah asks jokingly.


"Of course not! Pat is helping me learn about my brace and to get used to wearing it and how it works." Flora responds with a wide smile.
 

"The more she practices, the easier it will get, and the more the computer learns to anticipate her movements." Pat explains. "Now it's just a balancing session.


Sarah leaves her bag on the sofa and joins the dance. She kicks one foot at a time, lets down her hair, pretends to be playing a guitar, and spins her head as if she were at a rock-n-roll show. Pat and Flora laugh at Sarah's performance. She doesn't care, and she continues; Sarah just wants to enjoy the moment.
 
 
******
 
 
Once again, everyone gathered at Collene's house. Everyone was delighted to see Flora standing and walking with her brace, with Billy feeling proud and happy with Flora's progress. He especially enjoyed watching Flora and Collene prepare dinner together. The girls were not using their crutches and moving awkwardly, but yet gracefully, as they worked. Sarah was also watching the girls laugh and carry on as they worked. She hugged Billy and kissed him on the cheek, with him returning the gesture of love and kindness.
 
 
There was a lot of talk and laughter. Flora prepared a salad, tortellini, and ravioli, with Collene tracking every move in the kitchen. Everyone was in awe of Flora once again, and Sarah could barely hide her happiness. After dinner, there was more conversation and a few rounds of wine. After a while, the friends began to say goodbye and leave for their homes. Sarah was feeling dizzy; perhaps she had overindulged in the wine. So as not to cause embarrassment, Sarah sat in Flora's wheelchair. At the same time, a sharp alarm sounds from Flora orthosis, and everyone looks at her curiously.
 

"What the fuck is that noise?" Sarah asks, visibly dizzy. Flora gives Sarah a serious look.
 


"Ah... I forgot to mention that's the sound of the low batter warning, Flora. There are only a few minutes left before the battery is exhausted and needs charging." Billy explains.


"So it's time for us to retire? It looks like Sarah's battery is also running out!" Flora looks at Sarah, now visibly drunk, and everyone laughs.


Sarah had her head down as Flora began to push her in her wheelchair in small steps. Upon entering their room, Flora realizes that Sarah is sleeping and wakes her up by pushing her shoulder. Sarah wakes up, still dizzy, and moves to bed with her prostheses still on. Sarah can't resist and goes back to sleep.
 

"Fuck!" Flora has a new mission ahead of her now.
 

******
 

The next morning, Sarah wakes up with a bad taste in her mouth and a headache, with Flora sleeping next to her. Sarah removes the cover and realizes that she was without her prosthetics and Flora was without her brace. After Flora woke up, she told Sarah about her mission last night. First, she took off her own brace, which took a while, but everything went well. She transferred herself to her wheelchair and put her brace on to recharge. Flora then turned her attention to Sarah and her prosthetics, carefully removing them from her sleeping girlfriend. As Flora spoke, Sarah realized how proud and happy she was that Flora had managed to do everything alone and without help.


The girls brushed their teeth and showered together. Again, they dressed casually. Flora decided to use her wheelchair and looked relaxed in her shorts, t-shirt, and cute sandals, showing off her painted nails and toe rings. Sarah was wearing denim shorts, exposing her prosthetic legs, and a long-sleeved shirt.
 
 
Breakfast was wonderful, with a lot of lively conversation, some laughter. It was a relaxed and happy atmosphere; no one wanted to see it end. Unfortunately, breakfast came to an end, the conversation ended, and the atmosphere became sad.


Judy and Leigh had to go to the office. Billy had a lot of work to catch up on after getting Flora brace ready, and Joel had clients to meet with. Hugs were exchanged, tearful goodbyes were said, and there was the promise of a return. The group decreased to just Collene, Pat, and Terry. They would spend some more time together with Flora and Sarah, then accompany the girls to the airport.


Sarah and Flora returned to their room, packed their bags, and put on their coats. That morning, Billy had delivered a personalized suitcase to Flora so she could store her RGO brace. Billy had taught her how to disassemble some parts, which made transportation much easier.
 

Terry was driving his Ford Edge, and Pat was next to him. In the back seat, Collene was feeling a little awkward sitting in the middle, between Sarah and Flora, but she loved being among her friends. Everyone was still talking about the events of the last ten days. Terry was in no rush to get to the airport; they still had plenty of time and decided to make the most of it. On the way, Terry made a few stops for them to enjoy the scenery; it seemed like no one wanted to go to the airport.


At the last stop before arriving at the airport, everyone got out. Terry helped Flora with her wheelchair, and then Collene. Sarah and Pat took the lead, and the others followed. Their steps were synchronized, the cold air filled their lungs, and Sarah slowed down until she stopped.
 

"Thank you, Pat, for everything." Sarah says in a low voice.
 

"Oh, you're welcome, Sarah, but thank you for what?" Pat wonders why Sarah is grateful. He did nothing but be himself.


"For the words you said to me when we first met—'Sarah, you can and you will. You must do this!'" Sarah fondly remembers the conversation that changed her and later Flora's lives.


"You changed after I said that." Pat remembers. "You started to become a different person. You started to become who you were before, maybe even better, now away from danger and closer to the ones you love."


"I've been through some tough times since then, but I could always hear your voice in my head saying those words. Now it's 'I could, and I did. I had to!' Your way of talking to people is magical; it's like you can read minds and know exactly what to say." A tear appears in Sarah's eyes, and she hugs Pat tightly and feels Pat return the affection.


"Reading minds is my superpower, Sarah." Pat responds with a smile, which makes Sarah laugh too.


Flora, Collene, and Terry get closer. They talked some more, there was a lot of laughter, and then there was a photo session.


During the final part of the trip, everyone was in the same place as before. Flora and Collene were talking about the RGO brace, Sarah talked to Terry about having an adapted car and the options on the market, and Pat was deep in thought. He was a commercial loan officer for many years before becoming vice president of the bank. He could read people very well, and, during the trip, he was thinking about Sarah and all the things he observed: For people who say they knew very little about firearms, they were both excellent shots. Sarah was familiar with Judy's obscure revolver and recognized it immediately. Sarah would start to say something and suddenly change the subject, but Flora could control herself better. Then Sarah had a joke with Collene about espionage, and there is a scar on Flora's stomach. No one else seemed to notice these things, but Pat did. With the girl's veiled admissions of being CIA agents and all the other things he noticed, Sarah and Flora were not just CIA agents, but they were Alpha Special Forces—the elite of the elite—taking on the most secret and dangerous missions. 
 


When they arrived at the airport, more sad goodbyes were said. Terry walked away to deliver the girls' bags to Skycap. Collene's cell phone rang; it was Billy, and she moved away a little to answer the call. Pat gave Sarah another hug and then bent down to hug Flora, who was sitting in her wheelchair.


"I hope you two have a very happy life together. I wish you the best of luck and stay out of danger!" Pat looks around and smiles at Sarah and Flora. "You two are my favorite agents!" Sarah and Flora looked at each other and smiled, then looked at Pat:


"We cannot confirm or deny that you are our best friend." Sarah responds with a big smile, "Thanks, Pat!"


Collene and Terry return for one last hug, and Flora once again thanks Collene for her brace. After a final goodbye and the promise of another visit, Sarah and Flora turn and head towards the terminal door, followed by the skycap. As soon as the door opens, Sarah and Flora turn to their friends:


"We love you and can't thank you enough, and we'll see you soon. Thank you!" Sarah and Flora say this as tears run down their cheeks.


'Thank you', the same two simple words that Sarah said when she left a year ago, two words that her friends hear her say when they think of her, and now of Flora, too. Terry puts his hand on Collene's and Pat's shoulders as they watch their friends leave. They already miss their friends, Sarah and Flora.
 


Terry goes back to driving, with Collene shedding a few tears along the way. She loves Sarah and Flora very much and is inspired by their spirit. She thinks about Billy and his ability to change lives simply by doing his job. When they arrive home, Collene prepares something for them to eat before Pat and Terry make their journey home.
 

******
 

After Pat and Terry left, Collene went to her room and laid down on her bed. She took out her cell phone and called Billy.


B: Hello, Collie! How are you? I bet it was hard to say goodbye.


C: I'm fine, honey. It was difficult to see Sarah and Flora leave, but we'll see them again; they are not gone forever.


Collene is holding back tears. She misses her friends very much. She talks about the short trip to the airport and saying goodbye. Collene also talks about how proud she is of Billy and his work.
 

C: I love you, Billy. You are the greatest!


B: It's all because of you, Collie. You are my inspiration in life.


The couple continues talking while Billy works in his shop, and Collene continues to lie down, relaxing on her bed.
 

******
 

Pat and Terry are enjoying a glass of wine in the comfort of their home.
 

T: You sure know how to talk to people, Pat. You are such a caring and kind person, but you can be tough when you need to be. I love you a lot!


P: It comes naturally to me; I don't really even think about what I'm saying; the right words flow on their own.


T: Those girls are very dear to you, aren't they?


P: Yes, they are very special. More special than anyone can ever imagine...


******
 

Aboard Delta Flight 10A


Sarah took off her prosthetic legs, keeping the silicone liners on the stumps. She reclined in her seat and was now asleep. Next to her, Flora is watching a film; however, her mind is not in the film. She is thinking about her new orthosis and all the potential it has for her life. She wishes she could feel it on her legs and lower body. Maybe Julie will try it out someday and tell her how it is. Flora imagines Julie using her brace and is amused by the thought.


Flora looks at Sarah, who is still sleeping; she looked so beautiful with a lock of her hair on her face. Flora can't resist and touches Sarah's stump. Flora starts to squeeze and makes some movements while watching her girlfriend sleep. When she puts a little strength into the movements, Sarah wakes up.
 

"Hi. Sorry for making you wake up, girl... I couldn't resist." Flora apologizes.


"All right." Sarah responds, still drowsy. "I already did this to you; of course you didn't wake up." Sarah confesses with a slight smile.


"What? When?" Flora asks in surprise. "I can't believe you took advantage of a poor cripple!"


"As you said, 'I couldn't resist.'" Sarah pulls Flora's hand and places it between her stumps.
 

"You're crazy!" Flora is worried, looks around, but doesn't take her hand away.


"You drive me crazy!" Sarah bites her lower lip, provoking Flora.
 

Shortly afterwards, the in-flight service stopped the exchange of affection and teasing. Sarah adjusts her seat, and the girls assume a more polite posture.


"I absolutely love your friends. They are so loving, kind, and quirky, just like our Julie." Flora reflects on their kindness and wonders how much time and money Billy invested in her orthosis.


"I've never met people like them before. They give everything and ask for nothing in return; they have no ulterior motives." Sarah didn't say she paid for the brace; she intends to tell Flora when they get home. "I was skeptical when I met Collene and Pat, but they love us as much as we love them." Sarah still can't believe the love and kindness these people showed her and Flora.


"I love you, Sarah, and our friends too." Flora opens her heart.
 

"I love you, Florentina!" Sarah says with a slight smile.
 

"Damn... You ruined the mood." Flora rolls her eyes.
 

"Come here." Sarah holds Flora's face and gives her a passionate kiss.
 

******


A text message appears on everyone's phone:
 

Hello, it's Flora. We're home! Thank you for everything. We will come back soon, or maybe you can visit us. Sarah and I love you all. We wish all the happiness in the world to all of you. Take care, and thanks again!
 

With love,
 

Flora and Sarah

 

Ch. 183 - Bad News

 
After lunch, we made our way to see Dr. Joe for Lori and Blake to have their orthodontic progress checked and adjustments made. Collie was able to come along since Gary and Rita came in early today. For Lori, it was just another regular orthodontic visit. She'll be getting new archwires and maybe some other minor things done today. However, Blake felt dread and even a bit of terror; she knows that things are not going well with the protraction part of her treatment and fears what the next step will be.
 
 
Soon after we arrived and the ladies checked in, Sally came out and led us back to the large exam room. There were changes to her braces; she was simply wearing her bands, expanders, tongue crib, and Interlandi headgear with only an upper facebow. However, it appeared as if she was also wearing a modified Herbst appliance like mine, which allows her to immobilize her jaw. I inquired, and she said that her appliance is exactly the same as the ones Kathy, Rebekah, and I recently got.
 
 
Sally explained that she and Stan have a ritual every evening after dinner where he brushes her teeth and cleans her appliances before locking her jaw shut around her large splint. He keeps her jaw immobilized until breakfast. However, once her jaw is locked shut on Friday evening, it stays that way until Monday morning. Stan keeps the special tool locked away in a safe that Sally doesn't know the combination to. Sally said she loves going out with her jaw clamped shut, and it is quite a thrill to try to talk to people.
 
 
Once in the exam room with two chairs, Sally had Lori and Blake take their seats in the chairs. Their extra-oral appliances and archwires were removed, along with Blake's splint, and their teeth were cleaned. Their excellent oral hygiene was noted, and like all of us, they take great care of their teeth. The extensive orthodontic and orthopedic treatments they are both undergoing prove they care about their teeth and overall health. Finally, 3-D scans were taken for Joe to review in his office.
 
 
While waiting for Joe, Sally suggested that I swap places with Blake so she could clean my teeth. I got into the chair, and Sally slowly and carefully cleaned my teeth, working around all my appliances. This was the first time for me to have a cleaning with all these things in my mouth, and it seemed to take a long time. However, there were moments where Sally did nothing but gaze into my mouth, simply admiring the appliances that I would wear for the rest of my life. Just as she was finishing up, Joe entered the room.
 
 
"Good afternoon, ladies! I hope you are well and all your smiles look radiant, especially Leigh's very colorful smile." Joe seemed more cheerful than usual.
 
 
"Hi Joe, I hope you have been well." Lori says with a smile.
 
 
"H.. H... Hello, Joe. I... I'm a bit nervous." Blake said with a worried look on her face.
 
 
"I'm doing well; thanks for asking. Blake, what's up with that worried look? Parts of your treatment are going really well." Joe tries to reassure Blake.
 
 
"It's the part that isn't going well that worries me." Blake says in a low, shaky voice.
 
 
"We'll talk about that in a little while, Blake. Why don't you and Chris go into my office so he can help you take off your back brace? It will make it a lot easier if you can open your mouth all the way for me. I'll take care of Lori while you get out of your brace." Joe puts on a pair of gloves, and Blake and Chris leave the room.
 
 
"What color for your ligatures this time, Lori?" Sally inquired.
 
 
"It's fall; how about a mix of fall colors?" Lori replied, imagining what her smile would look like.
 
 
"That's been a common request lately, and it looks quite lovely." Sally smiled, and we noticed her ligatures were in the colors of fall.
 
 
Very quickly, Joe got Lori's new archwires in place. This time, on her upper archwire between her front two teeth, Joe placed a small coil spring. He explained that it is to give her back the little gap between those teeth that she misses so much. Joe warned Lori that there would be some discomfort from her new spring, but it would pass in a few days. Just as he was finishing, Blake and Chris returned, with Blake standing not so tall and straight without her large and extremely immobilizing spinal brace. She carefully sat back down in the chair, and it was obvious her back hurt since she was not wearing her brace. From my experience, that discomfort is an excellent motivation to wear your brace as prescribed.
 
 
After Joe placed Lori's facebows in her mouth and attached elastics between them and the orthodontic component of her halo brace, she said, "Joe, when I was getting my halo traction brace adjusted this morning, Billy said I would be wearing a series of spinal casts for some time after I'm done with my halo traction. He explained that my cast might cover part of my head, and I wonder how I can still wear my headgear in my cast."
 
 
"That's a good question, Lori. I'll give Billy a call, and we'll see what we can figure out. We have plenty of time, don't we?" We could tell that Joe is thinking of a solution.
 
 
"Yes, we have time. I don't even know all the details yet. Billy and Collene are going to stop by to speak to Scotty and me this evening." Lori smiles, showing off her new colorful ligatures; she knows that Billy and Joe will come up with a solution as they have before.
 
 
Turning his attention to Blake and Chris, who is sitting on a stool next to Blake, holding her hand, "Blake, all of your treatment is going very well; however, one thing is not—protraction of your upper arch. Expansion is going well, both upper and lower, with your lower teeth moving faster than I expected. You will only need to turn your lower expander for another six weeks, and then you're done. The device will stay in place for the duration to ensure your teeth don't relapse, and we might need to use it in the future to touch things up."
 
 
"I'm also pleased with how your front teeth are moving; they are looking quite good at this point, especially the bottom. You'll be in power chains before you know it. However, before we can proceed with your upper arch, we need to get it to move forward another four millimeters. You need five in all, but I want to over correct to six, and so far, you have only had one millimeter of movement. This amount of movement should be attainable without surgery, and I know you do not want surgery under any circumstances, so we are going to have to try something different. Do you have any questions so far, Blake?"
 
 
With a sad look, Blake simply shakes her head no, with Chris firmly holding her hand.
 
 
"As you know, we've been applying a lot of force to your teeth with the orthodontic component of your spinal brace, but it isn't enough. What I want to do is use a method called rigid external distraction. This procedure is almost exclusively used after surgery, but I want to try it on you. Otherwise, you will have to undergo surgical treatment, but on the positive side, the device will already be placed if we must go that route. Now, don't go looking online for this type of appliance; what you will be getting is very different. It's a new design by a maxillofacial surgeon friend of mine, and it is a bit easier to wear than the conventional device. At this point, I can't tell you exactly how long you would need to wear it. However, for a considerable period of time, you will be wearing a very conspicuous device, but it shouldn't be painful or uncomfortable after you get used to it. Any questions?" Ben holds Blake's other hand, showing her that he truly cares about her and her situation.
 
 
"Are there any other options, Joe? You mentioned surgery, and I definitely don't want that." Blake has a blank, distant look on her face.
 
 
"After I change your archwires and wire them in place, I'll be replacing your elastics with springs. You'll wear these until you have your rigid external distraction device placed by my colleague, Dr. Wilkinson. At that time, you will be getting a new appliance fitted to your upper arch, too. If your teeth move using the springs, which I doubt, we can continue using the springs. I know you don't want surgery, but it might come to that to prevent severe damage to your jaw later in life. It will all be OK, Blake. You are doing so well with everything; I know you can handle this, especially with Chris's support." Joe tries to comfort Blake.
 
 
"Can you describe this device you want me to wear?" Blake inquires.
 
 
"I can show you a rendering of you wearing it that Dr. Wilkinson has done. Here, take a look here on the computer." Joe knows Blake will be shocked.
 
 
Looking at the computer screen, Blake's face turns white as a ghost, and she says, "I... I... I'll be wearing that? It's... I don't know what it is. Are those screws holding it in place like Lori has on her halo brace?"
 
 
"Yes, Blake, there will be six small pins securing it to your skull. They will only be painful for a few days, and your teeth will ache every morning when you turn the adjusting screws. I promise you, it looks a lot worse than it really is, and it will be a lot easier to wear than the current devices that have a rod in your field of vision. Dr. Wilkinson has three patients in the device now, and they are all quite comfortable and happy." Joe tries to reassure Blake.
 
 
"Well, I guess I have no choice." Blake turns to Chris and begins to cry, and he holds her body tight and tries to comfort her.
 
 
After a few minutes to compose herself, Joe begins placing her new archwires and tying them in with ligature wires. He is soon done, and he asks Blake to return to his office for some privacy to put her Kuehnegger brace back on so he can fit her springs. Blake and Chris left the room, and we all looked at the rendering of Blake wearing this obtrusive appliance. She certainly has a challenging future ahead of her.
 
 
When Blake and Chris returned, she looked really upbeat and almost excited. I wonder what they talked about as she put her back brace on. Joe quickly fitted the orthodontic component to her spinal brace, then a set of very strong springs to the hooks on her upper arch.
 
 
"These springs hurt! They really pull hard, Joe." Blake says as she looks at Chris.
 
 
"You will get used to them soon, Blake. Don't worry." Joe once again tries to reassure Blake. "We're done for today except for one thing: you need a 3D scan done at Collene's shop so your external distraction appliance can be fabricated."
 
 
Joe explains to Collene that Dr. Wilkinson needs a high-definition scan of Blake's head without her springs and orthodontic component in place and her hair pulled up and back. Collene says, "Let's go get your scan done, then we can go get smoothies." We all thank Joe and Sally and go to get Blake's scan done. However, Chris stayed behind to talk to Joe.
 
 
A little while later, just as we were leaving to get refreshments, Chris arrived.
 
 
B: Did you ask him?
 
 
C: Yes, he said you were right, and I'll begin treatment when you get your new appliance fitted.
 
 
B: That's great! We'll both have braces on our teeth. Did he say what you needed to have done?
 
 
C: No, but Joe is going to design my treatment plan to be similar to yours; we have the same issues, just mine are not as bad as yours.
 
 
B: This is so exciting, Chris! Thank you!


C: You ladies go get in the car. I need to talk to Billy for a minute about my, um, my leg braces.
 
 
Chris spent about fifteen minutes with Billy, and then we were on our way. Chris dropped Lori off at the shop to be with her husband and discuss her upcoming serial casting. They dropped me off at my house, and Blake said that they would see us all in the morning.
 
 
The next morning, Blake and Chris joined us all for breakfast. They had spent the prior afternoon with Blake's parents and then a quiet evening alone. Blake said her teeth no longer ached from her springs, but her back was a bit sore from the adjustments to her spinal brace, like it always is for a few days after she visits Billy. She and Chris were very upbeat and happy, but I was concerned about the challenges Blake will soon be facing. Later, I will have to call Stevie and let him know what Blake's orthodontic future holds.

Ch. 185 - Dr. Myra Johnson
 
 
Leigh and Jackie are on the phone talking:
 
 
"Good morning, Leigh. I want to tell you about a friend and colleague who can make a dream of yours come true." Jackie excitedly states
 
 
"Well, good morning, Jackie. I don't mean to be rude, but what the hell are you talking about?" Joel and my friends have already made all my dreams come true.
 
 
"You know, about wanting to see what life is like for Collene and Flora? You always said you wanted to be paralyzed." Jackie says frankly.
 
 
"Don't tell me you found one of the doctors overseas who does amputations or severs people's spinal cords. I have heard stories about 'doctors' like that." I said this with disgust.
 
 
"No, it's nothing like that at all. She is a friend and colleague of ours, Dr. Myra Johnson. She is a leading expert in the field of neurology." Jackie reassures me.
 
 
"Tell me more; I'm all ears." I am now extremely curious.
 
 
"OK, I don't know all the details, and I couldn't understand them if I did. What I do know is that Myra is doing research using electrical fields to control pain and movement. It's nothing like existing pain control devices; it's more selective and can block feeling and/or cause paralysis. Her hope is to produce a device that can provide spinal anesthesia with precisely controlled electrical fields instead of drugs. You will just need to meet her, and she can tell you all about it." Jackie is right; I would love to experience paralysis like Collie and even a full loss of movement and feeling like Flora.
 
 
"I would love to meet her and talk. This is quite a revelation, Jackie." I say with excitement and appreciation in my voice.
 
 
"I told her all about you and our other friends. She really wants to meet you and Judy. Myra has a lot of questions to ask you and wants to understand your feelings; she is also a psychiatrist, but don't let that scare you. She understands how we all feel about casts, braces, immobilization, and paralysis. Myra will not judge you, and she is personally curious about your feelings and current lifestyle. Shall I make the arrangements for you and Judy to meet her?" Jackie asks.
 
 
"Yes, please do." I reply.
 
 
"You know the orthopedic convention that is happening at Annie's hotel in two weeks? Ben and Billy are giving a presentation on Lori's scoliosis treatment with her special halo traction brace. That's where you can meet Myra." Jackie eagerly explains.
 
 
"Yes, I know about the convention, Jackie, and we can't wait. Billy asked Judy and me if we would assist Collene with their booth at the trade show. He also wants us to model our braces, showing his innovative designs, and we are all excited to see all the orthopedic devices shown by the various companies." We have been looking forward to the convention for some time.
 
 
"I'll set up a meeting with Myra after dinner on the day you arrive. I think you will enjoy talking with her, and you'll really hit it off. It will be good to see you, Leigh, and give you a hug, too. We haven't seen each other for a long time." Jackie says with a bit of sadness: We really enjoy each others company.
 
 
"That sounds great, Jackie. Give Ben a hug for me, and it will be great to see you. Thanks for making these arrangements, and I'm extremely excited to meet Dr. Johnson. I think this will be a very interesting meeting." I can't hide my excitement.
 
 
"See you then, Leigh, and I'll give Benny a hug for you. Have a great evening." Jackie hangs up the phone.
 
 
****
 
 
Judy and I were up and ready early this morning to head off to the orthopedics convention and trade show and our meeting with Dr. Myra Johnson. We dressed professionally for the day, but in such a way that as much of our braces could be seen as possible. I wore my brand new purple HKAFO-Milwaukee brace that Billy recently made me; my old one was getting quite worn since it is my favorite brace to wear. Judy was in dark blue KAFOs and Milwaukee brace and really looked good—sexy yet professional with her high-heeled ankle boots and short, but not too short, black skirt. I wore my purple glasses, and, of course, our headgear matched our leg and back braces. Since we are basically crutching billboards for Billy and Collene's shop, we wanted to look sharp and catch people's attention. Oh, notice I said Billy and Collene's shop; Gary and Rita are pretty much retired, but do come in several evenings a week to help out.
 
 
The first thing we'll be doing is helping Collie with her and Billy's booth, which highlights the specialty orthopedic braces and devices that Billy and Gary have designed and made, like our special shoe attachments and Lori's halo traction brace. We'll also walk, or should I say, crutch through the rest hall and see all the other exhibits and vendors with Jackie and Lori. Lori has taken a real interest in these kinds of things lately. After the convention concludes, we'll have dinner with Dr. Johnson.
 
 
Yesterday, Ben and Billy gave a talk on Lori's treatment, which was very well received. There were a lot of orthotist and a few doctors that wanted to see Lori's halo traction brace in person and talk to her about her experience wearing it, so she will spend a few hours at the Rogers & Jameson booth today. Not for too long, though, since she wants to spend some time with Scotty before her serial casting begins next week.
 
 
We arrived early and called Jackie to say that we had arrived. Our exhibitor badges gained us early admission, and Jackie was waiting for us in the exhibit hall.
 
 
"Good morning, ladies! How are you today? I bet you are excited to see the exhibits and to meet Myra." Jackie says enthusiastically.
 
 
"We're good, aren't we, Judy?" I look at Judy. "And a bit excited!"
 
 
"Yes, and I am eager to meet Dr. Johnson." Judy replied, smiling her metallic smile.
 
 
"I hope you don't mind that I told Myra all about you and how you let go of your legs. I hope I didn't tell her too much, you know, personal stuff." Jackie is a bit worried.
 
 
"Don't worry, Jackie. I sure everything will be fine. Please show us to Billy and Collene's booth." I want to say good morning to them.
 
 
We made our way to the Rogers and Jameson booth. Ben and Lori were there with chatting with Collie and Billy. The display that Judy designed looked great, with many pictures of happy clients. On the table were various KAFOs and spinal braces. The highlights were the walking heels of Joel's design, the shoe attachment for leg braces that Gary designed, and an RGO like Billy made for Flora. A video monitor showed various people wearing their braces and prosthetics; there was even a clip of Flora walking in her brace, but her face was pixelated for her privacy. After talking with Collie, Billy, Lori, and Ben, we went to explore the show, but not before Collie gave us a handful of business cards and some brochures to hand out.
 
 
Jackie, Judy, and I went to explore the show; there were all sorts of things to see. Prosthetic arms and legs, artificial joints, external fixators, braces, and casting tape. Since this show is for professionals, there were some videos showing the repair of some gruesome fractures and joint replacements. It made me think of everything that Lori went through and is still going through; she is so strong.
 
 
Something that was really cool was a company that manufactures cast tape with various designs on it, like the logos of colleges and professional sports teams. We all liked the ones with animals and the ones with cute insects like butterflies or ladybugs. Jackie listened to the rep's presentation, and a demonstration of the material was offered. The cast tape was billed as not only being attractive in appearance but also high in quality and easy to work with. Jackie sat down behind the display, offered her left arm, and asked for a LATS to be applied with the ladybug pattern tape. Soon, her arm was in a while LATS, and a final layer of the patterned tape was applied. It looked really cute, and the tape looked easy to work with. Once the cast was hard, Jackie was asked if she wanted it removed, and she said, "No. I'll have my husband remove it for me. I want to wear it for a while and see how the tape holds up." She did ask for a credit application since it would be nice to be able to offer something more than plain casts to clients, especially children. Judy picked up information saying it was for Billy, but I think she wants to purchase some for her personal use.
 
 
We then looked around more, and Jackie seemed to really be enjoying her LATS and commented that it had been a long time since she had worn a cast; she had forgotten how good it felt to wear one. We then came across a company that manufactures 3D scanners and high-speed 3D printers for making casts and braces. There were several small scanners on the table, including one for intraoral use. At the back of the booth were several large 3D printers, including one large enough to make a full-leg cast. Jackie inquired about the equipment, thinking it would be a good addition to the services that she and Ben offer.
 
 
The rep, Jason, then offered a demonstration. He said that Judy and I were perfect for a special feature of the computer software for people who need their wrists immobilized while still needing to use crutches, such as cases of tendinitis or sprains. He had us place our arms in the scanner, and upon the screen came up a perfectly detailed image; even the individual stones in our rings could even be seen. Then Jason scanned the hand grips of our crutches with a hand held scanner. He explained how the cast could be modified from the default design to allow for access to wounds or to prevent pressure on an injury. We were also shown how text could be printed on the cast, something like an emergency number for the doctor, and that patterns could be printed on the cast, too.
 
 
Jason explained that the printers were high-speed and our casts would be done in only ten minutes, and we watched as the machines got to work. When our casts were printed, they had our names on them and little stars and hearts printed on the outside. Jason asked for my left arm and placed it in a purple SATS. Then he placed a part on the handle of my crutch and told me to grip it with my casted arm. The adapter on my crutch makes it really easy to grip, and I offered my right arm and crutch to him. I then crunched around a bit while Judy's blue casts were being fitted. These things really felt good to wear, and gripping my crutches was easy with the adapters on the grips; they just sort of locked in place. Judy felt the same, and we thanked Jason for our casts, and he gave us each a tool for removing them. Jackie gave Jason her card and said to contact her; she would like to purchase the full-leg-sized scanner and printer for their shop. I also asked for information on the intraoral scanner and small printer for Joe and the largest one for Billy and Collie; they all want to upgrade their equipment.
 
 
By now, it was getting to be lunch time, and we went to grab a bite to eat. Judy and I are really enjoying our 3D-printed casts and how easily we can grasp our crutches while wearing them. Normally, when wearing arm casts or braces, we use our power wheelchairs; crutching is too uncomfortable, but this feel great.
 
 
When our meal was served, Judy had to cut Jackie's food for her since she was enjoying her LATS, which made her left arm useless but very cute. After our meal, we returned to the exhibit hall. We finally came across a booth with a sign above it that read, 'MJ BioTronics: Electronic Pain Management'. Jackie said, "That's Myra's booth; let me introduce you."
 
 
Judy and I crutched towards the booth, with Jackie walking between us. When the woman spotted us, her eyes lit up, and she wheeled out from behind the table to greet us. This extremely beautiful woman, about Rebekah's age, was in a black manual wheelchair, much like we all often use. She was dressed very smartly, maybe even a bit provocatively. Her black hair was in a tight bun, and she wore black-framed glasses that contrasted with her very light skin. She was wearing very little makeup except for bright red lipstick. The suit she was wearing was simple but expertly tailored, and her blouse could have used one more button to be fastened. On her legs, she wore thick compression hose, and her atrophied legs looked like they had seen much trauma at some point. On her feet were extremely high-heeled boots with probably six-inch heels that had never been walked in. There were straps around her legs and torso holding her in her wheelchair, along with a wedge on the seat between her legs to position her body. She was absolutely gorgeous, sitting confidently and poised in her wheelchair. The woman quickly wheeled up to us, extended her hand in greeting, and cheerfully said, "I'm Dr. Myra Johnson. Jax has told me so much about you both. I am so very pleased to meet you!" Jackie introduced us, and we all went to Myra's booth.
 
 
We talked for a few minutes, then two Army officers, colonels, approached with medical corps insignia on their uniforms. Myra said, "Sorry to be rude, but I need to talk with these officers; a lot is riding on getting another military contract. I'll see you all at the steakhouse at six."

Ch. 187 - MJ BioTronics I
 
 
Dr. Myra Johnson is continuing to tell the story of her life and her business:
 
 
When Rod came to stay with us, he was still becoming accustomed to his life as a DAK amputee after completing an intense drug rehab program. After his injury caused by an IED in Iraq, Rod endured many surgeries to save his legs, just as I had when I was a teenager. However, unlike me, he was not paralyzed, and he could feel the excruciating pain. Rod became addicted to narcotics to ease both his physical and emotional pain. Eventually, he ended up on the street, where a policewoman found him being robbed for his drugs by a street gang. The officer was a Marine herself, and she took Rod to a shelter run by and for veterans. 
 
 
It was in the shelter that Rod got the help he needed. His legs were virtually useless, and he finally decided to have them amputated to relieve his suffering. As he was recovering from his amputations, Rod kicked the drug habit since the source of his physical pain was now gone. After rehab, he contacted Mike, and we invited Rod into our lives to help him get his life back together.
 
 
Rod is very open about his situation, and one evening over dinner, my psychological training got the best of me. I asked him if he knew exactly when his addiction to narcotics began. In a very matter-of-fact manner, he said, "Yes, it was the moment the medic injected me with morphine. My pain went away, and euphoria set in. I thought I would be OK and back fighting in a few months."
 
 
Those words got me thinking about my multiple surgeries after I was paralyzed, where I felt no pain. If Rod had never received that first dose of morphine and didn't need pain medications for his recovery, he never would have become an addict. Mike and I decided to devote our lives to creating such a device, and MJ BioTronics was born. Oh, by the way, Rod ended up marrying one of the nurses who cared for him after his amputations. She encouraged him to go to college, and now Rod teaches Middle Eastern history at the local university, and they have three wonderful children.
 
  
Mike and I formed our company, and I was able to get a research grant from the company I had been working for to begin our research. Progress was slow, and we took on other unrelated research contracts and grants to keep our business and research afloat. Finally, we thought we had a workable design, and my sister joined us when we began trials. In fact, she was the first person to try our prototype device. The results were positive, and you both know the products that we eventually brought to market.
 
 
When my sister joined our company, that was when things got interesting. These things are why you two are here this evening. Gracie was devastated by the incident and always felt it was, in some way, her fault. There was nothing she could have done to prevent what happened, and I always reassured her of that fact. Despite doing well in college and becoming a successful nursing administrator, she suffered from depression and never formed any lasting relationships. Gracie often would tell me that she wished that she could trade places with me and wished she had swerved in the other direction so she and the drunk were injured instead of me.
 
 
Just after we got the first production prototypes of the BioTronics T units for clinical trials, I noticed one was missing. I asked Mike and Gracie, and they both said they knew nothing. I then looked at the security camera footage and saw that Gracie had taken one of the units and put it in her bag, but I said nothing to her about it. A few weeks later, I noticed that one of my old wheelchairs was missing from the storeroom. Something else I observed was a complete change in Gracie's personality. She was actually becoming cheerful and far more outgoing, even smiling and sometimes telling jokes; Gracie was a completely different person. I knew she was using the BioTronics T prototype and somehow it was making her life better. 
 
 
Then Gracie did something she had never done before; she told me she was taking a vacation to the mountains. The last time she had ever traveled for pleasure was our road trip to visit colleges, which ended so badly for us. When she returned from her two weeks away, she was so optimistic and cheery. One day, while Mike was off getting us lunch, Gracie gave me her phone to take a look at pictures and videos from her trip.
 
 
All the pictures were of the scenery except for one; it was a video of Gracie transferring from a couch to my old wheelchair. Her legs were completely limp, and there was a man's voice saying how sexy her flaccid legs looked as she lifted them to place her feet on the footrest of the wheelchair. I turned the phone towards her, and Gracie turned beet red and simply said, "I think I understand, and I'm not angry; just extremely curious. Let's talk tonight, and I won't say a thing to Mike. I love you very much and want to see you happy."
 
 
That evening, Gracie had a long conversation while Mike went bowling. She admitted to me that she was using the prototype device all the time when she was alone and ventured out to nightclubs in nearby cities using it and my old wheelchair. It was there that she met the man whose voice I had heard in the video. His name is Larry, and they have been dating for some time. Finally, one day, Larry happened to be in our town and spotted Gracie walking home from the grocery store, but she did not see him. On their next date, Larry confronted Gracie, and she admitted that she was not paralyzed and told him about the device. His next question to her was if he could try using it sometime; he has the same interests you ladies do. 
 
 
Then I asked Gracie why she took the device and why she enjoyed using it. She explained that ever since I lost the use of my legs, she felt tremendous guilt and desired to experience what being paralyzed and wheelchair-bound is like. I told her that it was all OK and that I understood because I had studied about people like her. It was then that I thought there could be more uses for our devices; they could also help people with paraphilias or people wanting to experience what a paralyzed friend or loved one is experiencing. That is when Mike began working on new software for our devices to make the operation more selective and controllable.
 
 
Now we have software that allows independent control over skeletal muscles and sensation and can even cause simulated spasms. This is the device that Gracie now uses, and she will be the first to get the implantable version. Basically, any form of spinal cord injury or disease of any intensity can be simulated with this device. We are currently working on an implantable pain control unit, the BioTronics Plus, but it can also be used as I just described. We are getting all our devices licensed for psychotherapy use, including the implantable version. From talking with Jackie, I think that is the device that you ladies would be most interested in.
 
 
Judy and I just sat in silence and looked at each other. This would be a dream come true for us and several of our friends, especially the external device. I could see Kathy, Rebekah, and Emme really enjoying themselves by being paralyzed at the push of a button. 
 
 
J: So I could fully experience what my sister Collene's life is like? She had polio, and her legs don't work anymore, but she still has feeling in them.
 
 
M: Yes, the device would allow you to experience that.
 
 
L: And I could be completely paralyzed at will below the device? The future devices would still let me have feelings in some parts of my body so I could still enjoy, you know, my husband?
 
 
M: Yes, Leigh, that will be possible as the software improves over time. You will be able to be very selective with how the device affects your body.
 
 
L: What will it cost for the initial external device?
 
 
M: Well, if you two enroll in my psychological clinical trial, I'll actually pay you to participate. You will get....
 
 
Judy interrupts Myra.
 
 
J: Let your friend Rod choose a charity and donate the money to it, please. We don't need the money, and the privilege of trying the device is enough for us.
 
 
L: I agree that no payments are necessary. This is going to be a lot of fun, and maybe it will make our dreams come true.
 
 
M: Very well. I'll have some papers for you to sign in the morning, and you both need to come to my office for a psychological evaluation before we begin. Don't worry, it is just a formality of the research project. I fully understand your feelings, personally and professionally, and I think they are quite normal. It's late; let's turn in for the night.
 
 
Myra was struggling to transfer her to her wheelchair from the recliner. Judy and I crutched over to her and helped her transfer, giving her hugs as we did and thanking her for her offer. Myra's face lit up with a wide smile, and she said, "I hope I can make you as happy as I have made my sister. Maybe someday your friends can also try out the device, too." With that, we said good night, and we went to our rooms.
 
 
Once in our room, Judy and I helped each other bathe in the handicap-accessible shower in our bathroom. We decided to sleep without our braces on, despite knowing our backs would be quite painful in the morning. I know I wanted to lay there and pretend I was paralyzed, and I think Judy desired the same. We got in bed and helped each other remove our braces, then talked for quite a while. It's hard to believe the conversation we just had with Myra was real and that there is a possibility of getting a small device implanted in our bodies that would allow us to live as we have dreamed of living. It's all so overwhelming, exhilarating, and a bit scary.
 
 
The one thing that Judy and I agreed to was to not tell anyone, not even Jackie, who set up the meeting, anything about what we were planning to do. We wanted to be sure it was all real and worked before saying a word to anyone. We are so excited, but we also know this is new territory for everyone involved. Dreaming of the future, we held hands and fell asleep.
 
 
The next morning, our backs were quite sore, as we knew they would be from not wearing our braces during the night. We helped each other get braced for the day, then washed our faces, brushed our teeth and orthodontic appliances, and got dressed. Judy wanted to wear the 3D-printed SATS casts we got yesterday, and I put her into hers and she into mine; they sure are comfortable yet highly immobilizing.
 
 
We crutched out to the main room, where we found Myra watching the news and enjoying a cup of coffee. She was sitting in her wheelchair with only the strap around her torso, dressed very casually in a T-shirt, compression hose, and shorts. Her legs, clad in a carbon fiber HKAFO brace with athletic shoes on her feet, were resting on the leg rests of her wheelchair. A pair of crutches were in the holder on the back of the chair.
 
 
"Good morning, ladies." Myra said with a cheerful smile.
 
 
"Good morning, Myra!" Judy and I replied in unison.
 
 
"If you want to accept my offer, the papers are on the table. Read them over and sign them if you please." Myra says as we crutch over to get a cup of coffee before sitting down at the table. We look over the documents carefully, then look at each other, and signed our names.
 
 
"Excellent! You will soon be living your dream." Myra says with a warm smile.
 
 
"So you can walk with your braces, Myra?" Judy inquires.
 
 
"Yes, but I prefer my wheelchair. The porters will be taking down my booth and helping me to pack up. Sometimes it's easier to do things if I can stand and crutch around a bit. I really don't like using my braces; they are rather clumsy, but I admire how well you lladiesget around in yours. I wonder how well you will do when you are really paralyzed." Myra smiles and chuckles as she speaks.
 
 
"We will soon find out." I say this with a look of excitement and apprehension.
 
 
"Yes, we will both find out!" Judy says with excitement.
 
 
"Oh, one thing, Myra." I say this with seriousness.
 
 
"Yes?" Myra replied with curiosity.
 
 
"Please keep this a secret from our friends and family. We want to know that your device works before telling anyone. Actually, Judy and I want to surprise our husbands if everything works out." My tone is very serious.
 
 
"I fully understand, Leigh. I won't say a word to anyone except Gracie and Mike. They need to know we have two volunteers." Myra says it reassuringly.
 
 
"Thank you, Myra." Judy and I say with a smile, with our orthodontic appliances sparkling in the sunlight streaming in the window.
 
 
We then go have breakfast, where we happen to meet Ben and Jackie, who is still wearing her cute LATS adorned with ladybugs. Over breakfast, Jackie asked how things went last night and what we planned to do. Judy and I simply said we had an interesting conversation with Myra, who warmly smiled at us and kept our secret.
 
 
After breakfast, we thanked Jackie for introducing us to Myra and said goodbye to her and Ben with a hug. We then talked for a few more minutes with Myra, then parted ways with a hug.
 
 
Judy and I crutched to the car and drove home. Our minds were spinning; so much had happened in the last twenty-four hours. Finally, our dreams of being truly handicapped with legs that are really useless may be coming true!