The special 7 cheese lasagna they have tonight is to die for by the way.

This is troubling though.

What is the worst that may happen?

The best might be a kafo! 

Chapter Twenty Eight:

Tara made her way back to the lounge.  She noticed Maggie and Mandy still at the bistro, chatting away with Lisa and Janice, who had apparently joined them while Tara was with Dr. Brad.  They were so engrossed with their lunches and their conversation they didn't even pay attention to Tara.  Tara turned her head to see Alex sitting in one of the massage chairs, her eyes closed.

Tara made her way over to the chair.  As she looked down she noticed something peculiar.  Underneath Alex's scrubs, around her quads and her knees, there was something angular printing against her pants.  Tara said "hey!  I am ready when you are."

Alex jumped a little as she snapped her eyes open and said "oh, you schared me."  Tara could see and hear she had her tongue crib in.

Tara smiled and said "sorry."  She watched as Alex reached over and turned the chair off.  Then, she attempted to stand up.  After two unsuccessful tries, she rose up and fell back both times, Tara noticed her face becoming red and upset.  Tara still didn't know what exactly was going on, but remembering Ellen she thought she might know.  Alex was wearing leg braces under her scrubs.  Tara didn't say anything about them but instead stepped in front of Alex and held her arms out.  Alex took them and pulled herself up to a standing position.  Tara simply smiled at her, unsure of what to say.

Alex said "thank you.  It ish sho embarrassing.  Mortifying."

Tara cocked her head and asked "what is?"

Alex knocked on her thigh with her knuckle, the hollow sound very audible.  She said "my new KAFOSh.  I picked them up on Friday.  They are sho musch bigger than I wash expecting.  Come on, I will tell you about them at lunsch."

Alex walked stiffly over to the counter and opened up one of the cabinets.  She pulled her purse out and placed it on the counter.  She unzipped it and removed her retainer case and deftly removed her tongue crib from her mouth, placing it into the case.  When she went to place it in her purse, it slipped from her hand, bounced off her purse, and landed on the floor.  She attempted to bend over.  She couldn't reach it.  She tried squatting down, which didn't work either.  Tara bent over and said "here, I've got it" as she picked it up off the floor.

Straightening back up, Tara looked into Alex's face.  It looked like she was on the verge of tears.  Tara handed the case to Alex with her right hand and placed her left hand on Alex's upper arm.  Tara said "it's ok, this is what friends are for.  Come on, I am starving."  She noticed Alex blink a couple of times then reach up and wipe the excess moisture from her eyes.  Tara said "come on, I will drive."

Out at her car, Tara helped Alex into the passenger seat.  She still hadn't gotten a look at the braces Alex was wearing.  But from the way she moved, it was obvious they were very restrictive.  And it was very obvious Alex was not used to them.  Once she was in the driver's seat, she looked over at Alex who had her head turned, looking vacantly out the passenger window.  Tara asked "so where is a good place to eat around here?  You choose since you are buying."

Alex said simply "I don't really care.  I'm not even hungry."

Tara reached over and placed her hand on top of Alex's.  She said "ok.  Do you want to talk?"  Alex just looked at her.  Tara continued "I don't know if you remember, but I had a little cry of my own right inside the office.  You helped me so much.  You have continued to help.  Is there anything I can do?"

Alex said "I am so depressed about this."

Tara looked at her and asked "your leg braces?"

This seemed to break the dam for Alex.  She animatedly said "YES!  These stupid leg braces.  See, I knew you could see them through my scrubs.  And even if you couldn't, I know you couldn't help but notice how I am tottering around like a new born.  I was expecting a petit little pair of ankle braces.  No big deal right?  But no!  Dr. Morales said my blood work came back and I have mild ehlers danlos myself.  That is why I kept twisting my ankles.  She said if she just braced my ankles, she was afraid that it would put the stress on my knees, and I would have problems with hyperextension and dislocations in them.  So, she fit me with this huge pair of plastic and steel braces.  They start under my foot and go all the way up to my pelvis with hinges at the ankles and knees.  They look horrible.  They feel horrible.  I can't move right.  It is just horrible.  On top of that, Dr. Brad still wants me to wear my CTO 20 hours a day."  She finally broke into tears.

Tara leaned over and wrapped her arms around her.  She cooed "Alex, I am so sorry.  I can't imagine what they are like.  But, I most definitely know what the CTO is like.  I know it isn't fun.  I am sorry, what can I do?"

Alex quit crying.  She whimpered "nothing, there isn't anything anybody can do.  I am broken.  I just know Marc is going to break off the engagement.  My whole life is in tatters."

Tara rubbed her hand on Alex's back and responded "no, that isn't true.  I know he loves you.  I could see that just from the little time at the restaurant the other night.  In fact, I thought he was your husband the way you two acted with each other.  Has he said anything about this?  Been mean?"

Alex said "no, he has been so sweet and understanding.  But I know deep down he doesn't want to be with me, with anybody that has as many problems as me."

Tara responded "you mean problems like being beautiful, smart, funny, a hardworker, and obviously in love with him?  You mean problems like that?"

Alex said "no, you know what I mean."

Tara said "I don't know what you mean.  Tell me why you think he doesn't want to be with you?  What has he done or said that indicated that?"

Alex said "nothing.  He has been so sweet.  So understanding.  So gentle.  But how could anyone want this?"  Alex pushed away from Tara and gestured to herself.

Tara said "that is an easy one, I thought you might have some tough questions.  He wants you because of you.  He knows you.  He loves you.  He doesn't care about some silly brace, he simply loves the woman that is wearing it.  That is how."

Alex looked at her and wiped her eyes in silence. 

Tara said "I know you said you aren't hungry, but let's get something anyway."

Pulling back into the parking lot an hour later, Alex said "thank you.  Thank you so much.  For listening.  And for lunch.  I feel so much better.  I guess maybe I was hangry."  She gave Tara a little smile, the first one Tara had seen from her.  She continued "and I am sorry if I ambushed you today.  Dr. Brad did want to talk to you.  But I did too.  I wanted to vent to someone.  I didn't want to do it to one of the girls in the office.  And I sure couldn't talk to Marc about, well, Marc.  Not like this.  Thank you.  So much.  Are you really going to make me?"

As she turned the car off, Tara smiled back and said "absolutely I am.  This Friday.  Marc, Jim, me, you.  And your cute KAFOS.  It is a date.  And you cannot back out.  And I will let you in on a little secret. I had a really good time today.  And it is me who should be thanking you.  You bought."

Alex smiled back at Tara.   Tara was glad to see her friend smiling.  Alex said "thank Dr. Brad, he paid for it.  Hey I have to run."  Alex laughed and said "ok, maybe not run.  I have to waddle.  But thank you so much."

Tara patted her hand and said "you will get the hang of it.  It will get easier.  You will have it down in no time.  But until then, do you want me to help you out?"

Alex shook her head, a determined look on her face, and said "no, absolutely not.  I need to do this myself."  To Tara's surprise, Alex got out of the car on the first try with relative ease.  Tara shouted "see, nothing to it" as Alex closed the door.  Tara then got out of the car.  As Alex walked around the back of the vehicle, Tara met her at the back bumper.  Tara stuck her arms out and said "come here."  She gave Alex a hug.

Alex pulled away and said "again, thank you so much.  Is there anything I can do for you?"

Tara shook her head and said "nope, you just better not try and back out of our date." 

Alex leaned back in and gave Tara the hug this time.  She said "I won't.  I promise.  And I owe you."

After Alex had released her, Tara said "you owe me nothing.  This is what friends do for each other."  Then a thought popped into her head.  She looked at Alex as she pulled her retainer case with her tongue crib out of her purse.  Tara said "I do have a question.  What was that thing that Dr. Brad was fitting on that patient?  You and Maggie were having to help her.  Or were you having to hold her?  Anyway, it looked terrifying."

Alex hesitated putting in her tongue crib.  She said "Dr. Brad needs to quit inventing things.  That is a new headgear he just invented.  It can be used for both retractive headgear, you know the silver facebow and straps around the head and or neck, or reverse pull headgear, like we wear.  It is like an interlandi headcap, facemask, and chincup mated with a motorcycle helmet .  Like his Miller appliance, one appliance that can do it all.  But like the Miller it is so big.  And it is just so obtrusive.  And that is saying something since we both wear his CTO.  I felt bad fitting it on her.  But she only has to wear it at home.  I don't think Dr. Brad remembers what it is like.  Or he thinks anyone will just wear anything as long as it is only at home.  But this new device?  I really hope he doesn't start using it on many patients."  She went quiet a second and added "please don't tell him I said that.  I mean, it's just..."

Tara said "I understand, I won't.  Now, run along.  And yes, I mean run along."

Alex gave a laugh and then added "well, our definitions of running apparently are different.  I am really nervous about this Friday.  But really excited."

Tara squeeled "we will have fun.  I promise.  Leg braces or no leg braces."

Dr. Brad had been watching the pair through the blinds in his office.  He thought it a shame that neither of the women were wearing their CTO braces.  He also watched Alex's gate in her new KAFOs as she made her way to the door.  He felt sympathy for her.  He knew she hated them and her first few days back at work with them had been tough on her.  But he thought, they are for her own good, to protect her ankles and knees.  So while she doesn't like them, she needs them.  He then thought of his beautiful wife Megan.  While she did have "off days" from her CTO, today was not one of them.  He thought of her managing all of her day to day stay at home mom duties while wearing her corset, belt and CTO; her mouth filled and locked shut by her Miller appliance.  Thinking about it made him want to get home to her.  He thought further.  While she had never had issues with joint instability, you can never be too careful he thought.  Especially with two kids.  No, he would hate for his Megan to ever twist her ankle or knee.  He walked over to his desk and dialed Dr. Morales' office.

What would happen if Jerry Jones sold the Cowboys to a new owner?  A new owner who had made his billions selling dental equipment.  And who, now that he owns the Cowboys, thinks it would be great marketing for his primary business to get all the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, America’s Sweethearts, into his company’s brackets and archwires.  The ladies would accept it.  But then, his orthodontic division’s launch of a new extraoral device,  that he had sunk tens of millions into, failed.  No patient would wear it.  No orthodontist would prescribe it.  It was just to big.  But he had an idea. 

It failed because it was so massive, obtrusive and uncomfortable to wear.  It just looked nerdy.  But it could be used for both retractive and protractive cases.  What orthodontist wouldn’t want one appliance that could do it all?  Apparently all of them because it was SO big that no patient would wear it.  The product launch failed horribly.

But what if America’s Sweethearts showed up wearing it at games?  And promotional events.  Heck all the time, even when they were going grocery shopping or going to the gym. To generate a buzz about the product?  To get people asking ‘what is that’?  To turn this new… helmet for lack of a better word… into a fashion statement.  Maybe that would revive the product he thought would be so successful.  After all, he had already lost $27 million on it.  And he did own the Cowboys….

Just an idea that ran through my head.

Alex hesitated putting in her tongue crib.  She said "Dr. Brad needs to quit inventing things.  That is a new headgear he just invented.  It can be used for both retractive headgear, you know the silver facebow and straps around the head and or neck, or reverse pull headgear, like we wear.  It is like an interlandi headcap, facemask, and chincup mated with a motorcycle helmet .  Like his Miller appliance, one appliance that can do it all.  But like the Miller it is so big.  And it is just so obtrusive.  And that is saying something since we both wear his CTO.  I felt bad fitting it on her.  But she only has to wear it at home.  I don't think Dr. Brad remembers what it is like.  Or he thinks anyone will just wear anything as long as it is only at home.  But this new device?  I really hope he doesn't start using it on many patients."  She went quiet a second and added "please don't tell him I said that.  I mean, it's just..."

Hmmm, the ideas seem connected.

I’m enjoying all the twists and turns this story keeps taking. I can’t wait to see where it goes next! Thanks mr_90proof!

Thank you for already quiet a lot of surprises. 

Chapter Thirty:

Dr. Brad stared at Janice silently.  After a moment, Janice said "I hope you aren't upset."

Dr. Brad snapped out of thought and replied "I am upset.  But I am not upset with you Janice.  I have a lot to think about.  And do you really want me to fit you with a CTO and headgear?  They aren't compatible at this time.  You wouldn't be able to wear them at the same time.  But... I would like to have someone in the office wearing them.  I mean, like you said, I am proud of them.  And I do want to show them off.  If you want to, I will."

Janice gave an exaggerated smile and said "well, I do have braces now.  So it wouldn't seem that unusual to have some extraoral components.  I won't say that I really want to or relish the idea of it.  I know it will be an adjustment.  But I am willing to do it.  For you.  Like I said, you are like a son to me."

Dr. Brad said "let me think about it Janice.  I have a lot to think about."  He glanced at the clock on the wall.  He said "we have about 10 minutes until we open back up, but we already have one patient in the waiting room.  Would you do me a favor and gather up everyone but Becky in the lounge?  I want to have a quick word."

A few minutes later, Dr. Brad entered the lounge to find the group.  Mandy, Maggie, Lisa and Alex were all being good compliant patients and were wearing their CTO masks.  They were talking amongst themselves as Dr. Brad walked in.  As he walked over he could hear Mandy ask "I wonder what this is about?"  Dr. Brad announced "my goodness what a good looking group.  You all look stunning in your CTOs."

The group quit talking and stiffly turned their bodies in his direction.  Dr. Brad said "I am so proud of all of you.  You really are just the best staff ever.  And you all look so good in your CTOs.  But I have been doing a little thinking.  At least for the rest of today and tomorrow, I think you have earned a break from them here at work.  If you want of course.  I am not making you take them off.  But if you want to please do.  Tomorrow afternoon we will talk about new wear schedules for everyone.  I think we need to adjust them to account for the work week versus the weekend."

The group didn't move or speak.  They cut their eyes in each other's direction seeing what the others would do. 

After a moment, Janice walked over in front of Alex.  She began unbuckling Alex's CTO as she said "Alex, you first."

As Janice helped Alex out of her brace, Mandy and Maggie also began removing theirs.  Lisa did not.  Dr. Brad looked at her and asked "Lisa, really, if you want to take yours off you can."

Lisa said "thank you Dr. Brad.   I will later today for my myofunctional appointments.  I will keep it on until then.  I know the more I wear it the better."

Without a word, Janice cut her eyes over towards Dr. Brad and gave him a knowing look.

Dr. Brad said "Lisa, you are amazing." 

As soon as Janice had removed Alex's CTO, Alex gave her a big hug.  She said "thank you sho, sho musch."

Janice patted her on the back and said "don't thank me, thank Brad.  Dr. Brad made this decision, not me."  Alex released her hold of Janice and looked at her.  Janice saw the look on Alex's face.  Once again, it looked like she might cry.  Janice said "baby girl, don't cry.  But if you do I hope they are happy tears."

Alex composed herself and gave Janice a smile.  Alex apologized "I am shorry.  It hash jusht been an emotional week.  And yesh, they would have been happy tearsh."  Dr. Brad looked on surprised.  He had no idea that Alex had been having such an emotional time.  But knowing they had a patient already waiting, he said enthusiastically "ok, let's snap to it.  We have patients to see."

He stood there as Janice, Maggie and Mandy all stepped over and placed the braces on the counter.  As they did so, Lisa walked by in front of him.  Dr. Brad said "Lisa, thank you." 

She gave him a thumbs up and replied "hey, the more I wear it the quicker I am done.  Right?"

Dr. Brad said "that is exactly right."

Alex followed along stiffly behind Lisa.  When she got to Dr. Brad she stopped and gave him a suffocating hug.  She said "thank you Dr. Brad.  THANK YOU!"

Dr. Brad said "there is no reason to thank me Alex.  I am just trying to do what is best for my patients.  I do wish you had said something to me earlier this week.  Will you promise to do so in the future?  If something is bothering you?  I won't be mad."

As she continued hugging him she said "yesh, I will.  Again, thank you."

Dr. Brad said "you are so welcome.  And don't thank me too much.  You aren't off the hook wearing it at home.  Or really anytime you aren't working with patients."

Alex stepped back and said "oh poo!  That ish no fun."  Despite what she was saying, the huge metallic smile on her face really said it all.

Dr. Brad "I am glad to see you smiling Alex."  He then said to the rest of the group "come on now gang, saddle up.  We have patients waiting."

Friday evening Tara sent Alex a text that they had arrived at the restaurant.  She got an immediate response that she and Marc were about 10 minutes away, there had encountered a wreck that slowed them down.  Tara had asked her if she wanted them to wait for them.  Alex had shot back a reply to go ahead and get a table.

Upon being seated Tara had text Alex where their table was located and Tara had positioned herself and Jim so they could see in the direction from where they would be coming.  They had been seated only a few minutes when Tara saw Alex and Marc emerge around the corner, Tara shot her hand up and started waving.  Alex gave her a big smile and a little wave.  The pair made their way over to the table hand in hand.  But Tara didn't think it was to steady Alex.  No, Alex seemed to be walking so much better than just two days before.  With the dress she was wearing, Tara couldn't tell whether she was wearing her leg braces or not.  For some reason, she hoped she was.  She cut over eyes down towards Alex's ankles.  She saw white plastic and stainless steel emerging from the tennis shoes she was wearing.

As Alex and Marc arrived at the table, Tara and Jim stood.  Tara made her way around the corner of the table and gave Alex a big hug.  She excitedly said "yay!  You made it!"

They had gotten settled into their seats and made small talk.  Alex and Tara were glad to see that Marc and Jim seemed to hit it off, even if Tara did notice Marc looking at Jim's mouth some as Jim spoke.  Tara hoped that Jim didn't notice this knowing how self-conscious Jim was about his appliances and elastics which he was dutifully wearing.

After about 10 minutes, the server arrived with their drinks and their appetizer sampler platter.  As the server placed the platter down, Tara announced "we ordered it before you arrived.  And I asked them to sub out the crunchy taco bites for some extra shrimp."

Alex said "oh girl, you are so thoughtful.  Thank you.  You are going to do so good when you get your braces."  Tara noticed the expression change on the server's face, a pretty young woman who had yet to smile and had seemed to try to hide her teeth when she spoke.  Tara thought the server wanted to say something as she stared at Alex's mouth.  Instead, she just said "I hope you enjoy, and are you ready to order?"

After everyone had given her their orders and she had left, Tara said "Alex, I think that young woman wants to ask you about your braces."

Alex replied "really?  Why do you say that?"

Tara said "I don't know, just call it intuition.  That and she couldn't stop staring at your mouth.  And not to be mean, it looks like she could use some."

Alex said "interesting.  I didn't even notice. Huh."

Jim piped in "well, speaking of braces, would any of you be offended if I remove my elastics at the table?  It isn't exactly great etiquette I know."

Alex gave a chuckle and said "Jim, do you think we are going to mind?  Really?"

Jim smiled and said "no, but I had to ask."

Tara saw Marc watching Jim.  After Jim had removed the pair of elastics, wrapping them in a tissue and depositing them in his shirt pocket, Marc asked "what's it like having braces as an adult?  An adult guy?  Someone, and I won't say who, keeps twisting my arm to come see her and get a consult."  As he said this last part he gestured with his head towards Alex.  Alex gave him a look.

Jim replied "it sucks.  But, I keep telling myself it will be worth it."

Tara playfully punched Jim in the arm and said "baby, it does not suck."

Jim said "says the one without her expander yet.  Marc, it sucks.  But it is worth it.  And it is so much better going through it with someone you care about who is going through the same thing.  I am glad I am doing it.  If for no other reason than I met Tara because of it."

Tara leaned over against Jim and said "oh baby.  That is so sweet.  So sweet I am even going to let that first comment slide."  She sat back up and smiled at Marc.  She said "Marc you should totally do it.  You would be cute with braces.  And let me just say from a woman's perspective it is such a turn on to see a man that actually takes care of himself."

He said "really?"  He turned his head towards Alex and asked "do you feel the same?"

Alex smiled back at him seductively and replied "yes.  It might blow your mind just how much."

Marc "hmm....  well, maybe...."

He was interrupted by the server who stepped up and asked "everyone doing good over here?  Your food will be out shortly."

Alex turned and gave her a big smile, her braces reflecting the flickering light from the candle on the table.   She said "I could use another glass of wine.  And can I ask your opinion on something?"

The server, Tiffany, said "of course" as she used her lip to hide her upper teeth.

Alex said "what would you think if your partner got braces?  Would you be supportive?  And my fiance Marc here, smile for her baby, wouldn't he just be the cutest with braces?"

Tara could see the questions caught the young woman by surprise.  She stammered "umm... yes I would totally be supportive.  And, uhh, yes, I think he would be cute."

Alex beamed at Marc as she said "see, the ayes have it.  You are coming to see me."

The young woman just looked on wide eyed.  Alex turned and said "sorry, this is weird.  But I am an orthodontic assistant.  I have been trying for months to get him to come see me."

The young woman said "really?  I need braces so bad.  I want them so much.  Me and Kara both want them.  They are just so expensive."

Alex said "they are.  But it is an investment for life.  We do payment plans.  And we even do interest free financing with just a $100 down payment."

The young woman asked "really?"

Alex said "really.  You should totally come see us if you are interested in braces.  You and your friend should come in.  Consultations are completely free. Here."  Alex dug into her purse and pulled out a card and handed it to her.  As the young woman looked at it Alex said "you should totally give us a call and schedule an appointment.  And if you can get your friend to come in, we offer a $500 credit for referrals."

The young woman looked up at Alex.  She said "thank you.  I need to go check on your food.  But would it be ok if I talked with you some more about it later?"

Alex said "absolutely."

The server Tiffany smiled for the first time, her crooked and crowded teeth obvious.  She said "thank you."

As she walked away Alex said "that was fun.  Wasn't it fun baby?"

Marc shook his head and said "no, that was not fun.  But if you really want me to come in, I will."

Alex practically shouted "yay!" as she hugged him.  As she squeezed him she said "I love you so much."  Releasing her hold on him she came face to face with him and said "and I will take such good care of you.  In the office.  And at home." She gave him a wink.

Turning back to Tara, Alex said "I hope Tiffany and her friend will come see us too.  I don't know about her friend, but Tiffany could benefit so much."

Tara said "she could.  But I am not sure if Kara is her friend."

Alex gave Tara a confused look and asked "what do you mean?"

Tara said "I don't know if Kara is just her friend.  Maybe it is just intuition.  But the way she said 'me and Kara'.  And the look on her face as she said it.  And that pink triangle tattoo that Tiffany has on her arm.  I think Kara might be a little more than just her friend."

Later that evening after they were done with their entrees, Tiffany stopped back by the table.  She asked if anyone was interested in dessert as she went through the choices.  The group eyed each other. 

Jim said "I am stuffed."  Marc agreed.

Tara said "speak for yourself.  That chocolate cheesecake sounds incredible.  Would you share it with me Alex?  It should be easy on all of our appliances."

Alex said "twist my arm and throw me in the brier patch.  Yum!"

Tara turned back to Tiffany who was examining her mouth.  Tara said "I am in treatment  too."  She pulled back the corner of her mouth to expose one of her molar bands and hooks.  "Jim and I both are.  It has been so incredible going through the process together.  Plus Alex and Dr. Brad, the whole staff, they are just the best.  And not only do they have that referral benefit Alex mentioned, they have even better discounts available for family plans.  Even if it is just a couple.  You should absolutely make an appointment with them."

She looked at Tara and then over at Alex.  She asked "so what do I need to do?"

Alex smiled and said "two things.  One, call the office number on my card on Monday and make an appointment.  Two, make sure you bring us the biggest piece of cheesecake they have" and laughed.

When Tiffany returned, she had a plate in each hand, a piece of cheesecake on each.  She sat one down in front of each of the ladies as she said "instead of one big piece, how about two pieces.  It is the least I can do."

Alex and Tara almost simultaneously said "thank you." 

Tiffany said "No, thank you.  I do have one more question.  Um, how do I say this?  You mentioned a family discount.  That applies to couples.  Does that apply even if you aren't officially married?  Just like common law?  I really want to come in and see you.  I don't know if I can afford it, but I am going to schedule a consultation.  I want to make an appointment for Kara too.  I want to surprise her with it.  Because she is embarrassed of her smile and hides it.  Which I hate.  Because I love to see my wife smile."

 

Chapter Thirty One:

The following Friday afternoon, Dr. Brad knocked on Janice's door.  From the other side he heard "come in".

He opened the door to find Janice looking at him, her hair poofing out around the edges of her headgear.  He said "I wanted to speak with you a second before the staff meeting."

He sat down across the desk from her and asked "first off, thank you.  How is it feeling?  Are you getting a little more used to it?  Is it causing you any pain?"

Janice said "no, not too much pain.  The elastics still rub on my lips some.  And the facebow?  It is just feels weird. But the facebow actually keeps my lips and cheeks from rubbing on the brackets.  It's just, well, it's just so big.  I am still not used to feeling it wrapped around my head.  And I am definitely not used to how it looks."

Dr. Brad smiled at her and said "it looks wonderful Janice.  And since we are incorporating equal parts protraction and retraction, we aren't moving teeth or bone.  So, you shouldn't have discomfort like you would if we were actively moving things around.  Again, I appreciate it so much.  I do think we need to show our patients that we walk the walk too."

Janice smiled and said "well you know Brad, there is only one of us in the office who isn't."

Dr. Brad laughed and said "I did my time.  And you girls make much better models that I would.  Again, thank you.  Just remember, I am giving you latitude as to how you wear it."

Janice said "I know Brad.  Can I share a little secret with you?  I hate it.  But I love it.  And I am happy that you are happy."

Dr. Brad said "that I am.  Also, again, thank you so much for calling me to the carpet last week.   You were completely correct.  The girls have done such a good job taking the initiative on their own.  Speaking of which, let's go have our meeting.   I have some big surprises to announce."

Dr. Brad followed behind Janice as they entered the lounge.  He saw all of the girls sitting on the couches.  Mandy, Maggie, Alex and Lisa were all sitting stiffly on the edges of their seats, all dutifully wearing their CTO braces.  From the lisp he heard, he could tell Alex was wearing her tongue crib as well.  He looked at Maggie and Lisa, thinking about the fixed cribs in their mouths.  He realized they seemed to have much less of a speech impediment than Alex.  He wondered if that was because they were forced to live with theirs 24 hours a day.  He filed that away as something to think about later.

He waited until there was a lull in the conversation and cleared his throat loudly.  The girls shifted in his direction.  He said "today's meeting is going to be fairly quick.  But important.  But before we start, I want to thank you all.  And say how proud I am of all of you.  You really are the best in the business.  The only problem we have is that we can only treat so many patients.  Well, that is going to change.  Because we are growing."  He looked at Janice, who left the room.  Dr. Brad continued "I am about to introduce you to Dr. Andrea Bender.  I think you will love her.  She is young and energetic, and has a passion for orthodontics and helping patients.  Twice the orthodontists, twice the fun!  She will be starting with us on Monday.  We will also be adding a couple of new assistants.  We will begin interviewing for them next week as well.  I want you to know that I am going to have candidates meet and chat with all of you as well.  I want your input as well.  Because we are a family here."  At that time Janice reentered the lounge, followed by a fit brunette who was about 5' 6" and appeared to be around thirty years old.  She was wearing a knee length skirt, a white blouse, and sensible 2" pumps.  She had her hair pulled back in a ponytail and on her face sat a pair of tortoise shell framed glasses.  She was pretty in a librarian type of way.  She smiled at the group as she entered, her white teeth unadorned by any apparent orthodontia.

Janice led her over beside Dr. Brad.  Dr. Brad smiled at her and then looked back at the group.  He said "I am honored to introduce Dr. Andrea Bender.  Dr. Bender, would you like to say a word?"

Dr. Bender smiled before she said "thank you all so much.  I am so excited to be joining you.  But first, before we go any further, Dr. Bender is my father.  I am Andi or Dr. Andi."  For the next few minutes she explained her background, where she was from, her family, her schooling, and her experience.  When she was done, she went around the room, shaking hands with each of the ladies.  Once she was done, she stepped back beside Dr. Brad and said "again, I am so excited to be joining you.  What you and Dr. Brad are doing for patients is amazing.  Cutting edge.  And I want to compliment all of on jumping into treatment yourself.  I will be joining you soon.  I am excited about that as well."

Dr. Brad said "ladies, this is a big day.  An exciting day.  And I couldn't be happier.  Monday we will begin interviewing assistants and getting Dr. Andi settled in.  Until then, all of you have the best weekend.  And remember, weekends are a great time to get in a little extra appliance wear.  Thank you all, I love each and every one of you.  And I will see you all on Monday morning!"

That evening, after getting their children in bed, Dr. Brad stood in front of Megan in their bathroom turning her expander.  Once he was done, he leaned in and kissed her, his tongue running along her tongue crib.  Pulling back he said "you are amazing."

She said "thank you shir."

He said "please come with me." 

She asked "shir, what about my CTO?"

He said "kitten, you have earned a break from your CTO.  Would you like it if you could sleep without your corset and CTO for a few nights?  Tell me the truth."

Megan said "shir, I am conflicted.  I love the way my corshet maksh me look.  And I know my CTO ish helping me.  But yesh shir, I would l like a break."

Dr. Brad said "good.  Because this weekend you are getting one.  Next week will be an adjustment for you, you will be adapting to your new leg braces.  I want you to have a weekend of freedom."  He watched her face as he mentioned her upcoming leg braces to see if there was any reaction in her face.  He was almost disappointed there wasn't.  He continued "I know they will be an adjustment for you.  But I will take care of you."

She nuzzled up against him.  He thought she was purring.

He squeezed her and said "I love you so much."

The next morning as Dr. Brad woke he felt something digging into his shoulder.  He turned his head to find Megan curled up around him, her arm over him and her head laying on his shoulder.  One of the prongs from her mask was what he was feeling.  He gently shook her.  As she awoke he whispered "good morning."  She replied "goo morneh."  He smiled at her and said "you are so beautiful in the morning.  And I have another surprise for you today."

Dr. Brad had removed her mask, unlocked her mouth, and made the turns on her expander when she reached down to pick up the mask.  He put his hand over hers.  He said "kitten, no sleep well mask today."  She looked at him, surprise on her face.  She said "thank you."  He smiled and said "but you are at a very important point in your treatment.  I have something else for you."  He opened a drawer and pulled out a bright red petit facemask.  He held it up to her face as he adjusted it to fit with an allen wrench.  He said "perfect.  I want you to wear this during the day this weekend.  But not all day.  I will let you take it off at the zoo.  You have earned it.  And we won't be locking your scopes either."

After leaving the house, they stopped by the Starbucks around the corner.  It was late in the morning and the crowd was sparse.  Megan held the baby while Brad held their older son's hand as they walked in.  The barista had taken a long look at Megan wearing her facemask before she noticed the baby.  After cooing at him a moment, she asked if she could help them.  After ordering and paying for their drinks, the barista, her name tag said Emily, looked at Megan and said quietly "I have to wear one of those too.  Mine is purple.  You are so brave for wearing it in public."

Megan smiled at her and replied "It ishn't sho scary after the first few times.  Plus, I am married to my orthodontist, sho it ish hard for me to cheat." 

The barista looked at Brad then back at Megan and asked "oh, wow, I guess not.  How much are you supposed to wear it."

Megan said "pretty musch full time." 

The barista swallowed and said "wow, I thought fourteen hours was bad.  I'm always getting in trouble because I can't even get that in." 

Brad said "the more you wear it, the better it works.  And the quicker you will be done."

Megan chimed in "he ish right.  You should wear it here at work.  At leasht you don't have a tongue crib and exshpander."

The barista smiled and replied "I do have an expander.  But my facemask, here, oh no.  Everyone would make fun of me." 

Megan said "you speak sho well!  I am jealoush.  And no they won't.  Do you have it with you, your facemashk?"

Emily said "yes."

Megan said "well then?"

Emily "oh no, I could never."

Brad glanced over his shoulder to make sure there were no customers waiting behind them.  Seeing none, he looked back at Emily and asked "who is your orthodontist?"

Emily said "Dr. Blakeney."

Brad replied "great guy, great orthodontist.  I speak with him every once in a while.  You know, if you did put it on I would be sure to tell him I saw you wearing it at work.  That might get him off your back a little."

Emily looked from Brad to Megan, a confused look on her face.

Megan added "if it ish important to your treatment, you should do it.  Who cares what anyone thinksh.  You are doing thish for you right?"

Emily looked trapped.  She said "yes, I am."  After a second she said "oh my God, I can't believe I am even thinking about this."

Megan said "if you won't do it for you, will you do it for me?  So I won't be the only one in here wearing one?  Please."

Emily put up one last defense.  She said "nobody wears them in public."

Brad said "not true.  You are looking at someone doing it.  The most beautiful woman in the whole world is standing right in front of you wearing hers proudly.  And most of my staff is in treatment, many of them wear masks.  And they wear them in public occasionally.  Instead of not getting their time in.  Because they know how important it is."

Emily looked at them a moment.  She stepped over and tapped another young woman on the shoulder and said "man the register a second?" as she disappeared in the back.

About 20 seconds later Emily reemerged from the back.  On her face was a purple petit facemask, bright pink elastics emerging from the corners of her mouth.  Stepping back up to the register she said "happy?  God I feel mortified.  I can't believe I am doing this."

Megan said "you are so cute Emily!   I love the glitter in your mask!  And those bright pink elastics are so fun".

Emily said "this is not fun."  She looked at Brad and said "oh God....  now you will be able to tell on me to Dr. Blakeney."

Brad looked at her and said "snitches get stitches.  I won't tell on you for not wearing it.  That is between you and Lawrence, er Dr. Blakeney.  But I will tell him about you wearing it."  He pulled out his phone and held it up. 

Emily asked "what are you doing?"

Brad said "I am about to send Dr. Blakeney a picture of his patient doing such a good job of wearing her facemask."

Emily said "no, it's bad enough I am wearing it."

Megan said "how is that supposed to make me feel?  Come on."  She turned, her back to the counter, the baby in her right arm as she reached her left arm out.  She continued "come on, let's get a picture together." 

Emily hesitantly leaned in.  Brad said "you ladies look incredible.  Say cheese."  Megan gave a big, eager smile.  Emily's was much more subdued.

Brad held the phone up so the two ladies could see the picture.  Megan squeeled "how cute!"  At that time a younger girl brought three drinks to the counter and placed them in front of Emily.  As she turned, the girl's gaze lingered on Emily.

Emily noticed and said "see?  Staring?  I can't do this."

Megan said "do you think I don't understand.  Most people are just curious.  Maybe she wants to ask you about it?  Maybe she had one?  Or maybe she is thinking about getting braces herself?  Who knows?  But mainly, who cares?  Would you at least wear it until I leave?  For me?  We will be right over in that corner.  I will keep an eye on you.  You will be fine."

Emily reluctantly said "Kayleigh already has braces so that isn't it.  But yes, I will wear it.  At least while my orthodontist's friend is here."  She looked at Brad and asked "so does this mean you are going be checking in on me?  Spying for Dr. Blakeney?"

Brad said "absolutely not.  But I promise you, when you are all done with treatment, you will be glad you did.  I have yet to meet a patient who wasn't.  You get out what you put in.  And I have a lot of patients that tell me they wish they had done a better job wearing their appliances.  I have yet to have one tell me they wish they had done a worse job."

Megan stuck the straw in her iced latte and took a drink.  She said "delicious.  Thank you Emily.  And we will be right over there."

Megan had kept a close eye on Emily.   While it was obvious she was very self-conscious, Megan was happy to see she seemed to be managing.  Several of the customers had given long stares.  She couldn't hear what was said, but nothing said had seemed to visibly upset Emily.  The girl from earlier had come up to Emily during a lull.  Megan could tell from the way that Emily was pointing to her facemask, elastics and mouth that she was explaining it.  The other girl had then gestured animatedly around her own head as she spoke.

Once they were done with their drinks, Brad and Megan stood.  Brad made his way over and deposited the empty cups in a trash can.  Emily was with a customer, but after he departed she made her way back up to the counter.  Megan said "see?  You haven't died.  And it looked like there for a second you even forgot you were wearing it.  What do you say you try to leave it on a little longer?  It will help me knowing someone else is wearing one too."

Emily said "I will.  I didn't know that Kayleigh, that's my co-worker," as she gestured in the direction of the younger girl "wears headgear.  High pull headgear.  She was complaining to me about having to wear it in high school.  She is a junior this year.  I told her to wear it now, wear it as much as she could.  So she doesn't end up wearing headgear in college like me."

Megan said "you are right.  She should wear it as much as she can.  Just like you should.  And just like I should."  She leaned over, she still had the baby in one arm, and said "here."  Emily leaned over as Megan gave her a little hug.   She said "and now I have a reason to stop by more often.  To check on how my new friend is doing.  Maybe she will even be wearing her facemask?"

Emily gave her a smile and replied "we will see.  Maybe I can talk Kayleigh into wearing hers too?"

Megan smiled and said "that would be fun!  You should try.  Remind her that it's not just kids that have to wear it.  Emily, you have made my day.  Thank you so much.  Now, off to the zoo we go.  Facemask and all."