Chapter 6: Feelings Revealed and Accusations Levied
As the tensions within Alfea continued to escalate with the formation of the No Boy Fairies club, Alyssa found herself once again locked out of the dorm by Stella. The biting cold nipped at her skin, and frustration welled up within her. But this time, Bloom was quick to notice Alyssa's absence and acted promptly.
Carrying a bundle of bedding and a determined look, Bloom approached the dorm entrance. She found Alyssa sitting in the hallway, a mixture of discomfort and sadness etched on her features.
"Hey, Alyssa," Bloom said softly, her voice full of compassion. "It looks like you're locked out again. I brought you some bedding so you don't have to sleep on the cold floor. I'm so sorry your first few days have been rough but you have me and Flora by your side."
Alyssa looked up, surprise and gratitude evident in her hazel eyes. "Bloom, you didn't have to do that. Thank you. I feel like I'm being a burden."
Bloom smiled warmly, helping Alyssa arrange the bedding for a more comfortable makeshift bed in the hallway. "Of course I did and you're not a burden Alyssa Marie Thompson, this is just what friends do and friends look out for each other. Plus, I figured it would be a good opportunity for us to have a slumber party I'm sure that you never had a slumber party where you were one of the girls did you?"
Alyssa's lips curved into a hesitant smile, touched by Bloom's kindness. "You're really sweet, Bloom. Yeah I never had one of those it'll be nice."
As the night settled in, Bloom sat beside Alyssa, their shoulders touching as they shared stories and laughter. The cold and isolation seemed to lose their edge in the warmth of their companionship. Alyssa found herself opening up more, revealing her thoughts and fears to Bloom, she already had feeling for Flora but couldn't help but now fall for Bloom too.
As Alyssa and Bloom settled into their impromptu slumber party in the hallway, the soft glow of a nearby fairy light casting a warm ambiance, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and trust. Their quiet conversations were punctuated by laughter, stories, and the comforting knowledge that they were there for each other, despite the fact that they had to sleep in the hallway.
As the night wore on, Alyssa found herself confiding in Bloom, her voice barely above a whisper. "Bloom, there's something I need to tell you. Something I haven't told anyone else."
Bloom turned to her, her expression attentive and caring. "You can trust me, Alyssa. Whatever it is, I'm here to listen."
Alyssa took a deep breath, her heart racing as she gathered her courage. "I… I have feelings for someone, Bloom. Someone who's been a source of strength and kindness in all this chaos. It's Flora, the one who kick-started this journey I'm on now."
Bloom's eyes widened slightly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "Flora? That's wonderful, Alyssa. She's an amazing person. I'm sure she'll love you back."
Alyssa nodded, a mixture of relief and vulnerability in her gaze. "I've never felt this way before. It's like my heart skips a beat whenever she's near, and I just want to be around her all the time."
Bloom's smile grew, her voice gentle. "It sounds like you really care about her, Alyssa."
Alyssa looked down, her cheeks flushing with a hint of embarrassment. "Yeah, I do. But I'm scared, Bloom. Scared that my feelings will just complicate things even more."
Bloom reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Alyssa's shoulder. "It's okay to be scared, Alyssa. But sometimes taking a chance on something that makes you happy is worth it."
As their conversation continued, unbeknownst to them, Stella had been eavesdropping from behind the dorm door. Her eyes narrowed at the revelation of Alyssa's feelings for Flora. Stella's mind raced, the knowledge fueling her resentment.
The next day, Stella's exclusionary tactics began to target not only Alyssa but also Flora and Bloom. She approached them, her tone icy and accusatory in the grand hall. "So, the two of you are traitors now? You're cozying up to the outsider, the one who's causing all this trouble?"
Flora exchanged a glance with Bloom, her expression a mix of confusion and hurt. "Stella, that's not fair. Alyssa is our friend, and we're trying to help her through a difficult time. Why cant you see that what your doing to her is causing her distress?"
Stella's eyes flashed with anger, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Help him? Looks more like you're betraying your own kind. I thought we were friends, Flora, but it seems you've picked a side."
Bloom stepped forward, her voice steady. "Stella, we're not picking sides. We're standing up for what's right and supporting our friends. Alyssa deserves a chance, just like anyone else, she is just as valid as anyone else at this school."
Stella's lips curled into a scornful smile. "Well, you can stand up for whatever you want. But just remember, actions have consequences. Enjoy your time with the traitor. Oh and it shouldn't be long before he's exposed for what he really is."
As Stella walked away, Flora and Bloom exchanged a knowing glance. Their determination to stand up against injustice had only grown stronger, and they knew that unity and friendship were worth far more than exclusion and division.
Flora went to her room, but not before looking in Alyssa's room to only see that her HRT was nowhere to be found and thus began researching plants from all realms that can permanently rid the body of testosterone whilst looking for another plant that can permanently synthesize testosterone into estrogen for Alyssa.
Stella approached her, a smirk playing on her lips as she watched Flora's focused expression.
"Flora, still playing fairy botanist, I see," Stella commented with a condescending tone. "What are you up to this time? Not helping him are you?"
Flora glanced up, her eyes narrowing slightly at Stella's sarcastic tone. "Actually, Stella, I'm researching ways for plants to transmute testosterone into estrogen that could help Alyssa. She's been through a lot, and I want to support her."
Stella scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Oh please, Flora. We all know you're the poster child for charity cases. But you do realize that you're just meddling in things you don't understand, right? Like he cant be a girl"
Flora took a deep breath, her determination unwavering. "Alyssa is my friend, Stella. I want to help her in any way I can."
Stella's tone turned mocking. "Right, because your magical garden is the answer to all of his problems. Good luck with that."
As Stella walked away, Flora's gaze settled back on her research, determined to make a breakthrough for Alyssa's sake.
Meanwhile, Alyssa and Bloom, were heading to the dorm as well because Alyssa needed her medication. Upon arriving the duo began rummaging through Alyssa's belongings, searching for the hormone replacement therapy that she had brought from Earth. Alyssa's brows furrowed in frustration as they came up empty-handed.
"I could've sworn I packed it, You saw me pack them how could they have gone missing." Alyssa muttered, her voice tinged with worry.
Bloom frowned, placing a reassuring hand on Alyssa's shoulder. "Don't worry, we'll figure this out. Let's ask around and see if anyone has seen it."
They stepped out of the room, hoping to find some answers. As they were about to leave, Techna approached them, her expression serious.
"Alyssa, Bloom, I overheard Stella talking to herself before Flora began her research. She mentioned something about disposing of no less than three containers, and I think it might be related to what you're looking for. I tried to confront her but she said it needed to be done."
Alyssa's eyes widened in realization. "You mean my hormones? Are you sure?"
Techna nodded, her gaze sympathetic. "I'm not sure but she did leave Alyssa's room and had no less then three containers that she didn't have when she went in"
Bloom's grip on Alyssa's shoulder tightened, her voice filled with determination. "Thank you, Techna. We'll sort this out." before turning to Alyssa and saying "Let's go to Headmistress Faragonda's office we need to tell her what happened we cant be sure its Stella but we need to get more medication for you."
Bloom and Alyssa ran off to Headmistress Faragonda's office to explain the gravity of the situation.
In Headmistress Faragonda's office, Alyssa and Bloom stood before her desk, their expressions a mix of concern and determination. Faragonda listened attentively as Bloom began to explain the situation.
"Headmistress Faragonda, we're facing a bit of a problem. Alyssa brought her hormone replacement therapy from her home on Earth, but it seems to have vanished from our dorm room, I saw her pack it when I was with Flora when she went with me to get Alyssa packed" Bloom started, her voice measured.
Alyssa nodded in agreement, her hazel eyes fixed on Faragonda. "We've looked everywhere and couldn't find it. It's important for my well-being, and I need to continue my estrogen and testosterone blockers without interruption."
Faragonda leaned forward, her demeanor serious yet understanding. "I see. This is a matter of your health and well-being, and it's crucial that we address it promptly."
Bloom spoke up again, her voice determined. "That's why we're here. We'd like to ask for permission to go back to Alyssa's home and get another supply of her hormones. We want to make sure she has what she needs."
Faragonda's expression softened, and she nodded. "You have my permission to go retrieve the necessary supplies, but I must insist that you're not alone in this endeavor. Given the situation with the little club that Stella, Emily, and Lauren have formed, it would be wise to have some supervision, but from now on Alyssa if this happens you don't need my permission nor do you need Griselda's just get one of your friends and a professor and leave but be back by midnight."
Alyssa and Bloom exchanged a glance, both realizing the importance of having someone present who could ensure their safety and resolve any potential issues. Alyssa cleared her throat, her voice appreciative. "We understand, Headmistress. Who would you suggest accompanying us?"
Faragonda leaned back in her chair, thoughtful. "I believe having Professor DuFour accompany you would be wise. Her presence would provide a sense of authority, and she's well-versed in etiquette and diplomacy. It may discourage any interference from Stella or her followers of the No Boy Fairies club, who seemed to get new members every day making the Winx Club see minuscule at best."
Bloom nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a good plan. We just want to make sure Alyssa has what she needs, and we'll do whatever it takes to ensure that."
Faragonda smiled, her approval evident. "Very well. I'll speak to Professor DuFour and arrange the details. Please let her know when you're ready to depart. Your well-being is of utmost importance."
With their request granted and a plan in motion, Alyssa and Bloom left Faragonda's office, determined to secure Alyssa's HRT and navigate the challenges that lay ahead. The journey back to Alyssa's home would not only provide the necessary supplies but also reinforce their commitment to supporting each other in the face of adversity.
Under the gray cold gloomy sky, Alyssa and Bloom stood with Professors DuFour and Palladium just outside of Alfea's enchanting gates. Their surroundings seemed to shimmer with the promise of adventure as they prepared to embark on the journey to Alyssa's home in Princeton, New Jersey.
Professor DuFour adjusted her formal attire with a confident air, her presence commanding respect. "Remember, we're here not only to retrieve the supplies but to ensure a smooth and secure journey. I expect you both to conduct yourselves with decorum."
Alyssa and Bloom nodded in agreement, both understanding the importance of presenting themselves professionally. Professor Palladium, the gentle and knowledgeable elf, smiled warmly. "We're here to provide guidance and support, so don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions."
With a deep breath, Alyssa took the lead, her determination evident. "Thank you both for accompanying us. We're ready to go."
The journey to New Jersey was swift, thanks to the magic-enhanced transportation at Alfea's disposal. Upon arriving, the quartet found themselves outside a quaint but well-kept house, surrounded by trees and a sense of homeliness, it had only been a few days since Alyssa, Flora and Bloom were here and Alyssa's mom really had cut back on her drinking.
Alyssa hesitated for a moment, her emotions a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. This was her home, her past, and now she was introducing her Alfea professors to her mother, Laura Thompson.
Bloom gave Alyssa a reassuring smile, her hand resting gently on Alyssa's shoulder. "We're here for you, Alyssa. You've got this."
Together, they approached the front door, where Laura Thompson was waiting. She had already met
Bloom during their previous encounter, and her eyes lit up with recognition as she saw her again.
"Ah, Bloom! It's good to see you again," Laura said warmly, pulling Bloom in for a hug treating Bloom like an old family friend.
Bloom was pulled in by Laura for a hug, a friendly smile on her lips. "Likewise, Laura. This time, Alyssa and I are here with two of our professors."
Laura's gaze shifted to Alyssa, a mixture of curiosity and concern in her eyes. "And who's are they?"
Alyssa stepped forward, a mix of nervousness and pride in her posture. "Mom, these are two of my professors from Alfea, Professor DuFour and Professor Palladium. They're here to make sure everything goes smoothly."
Laura extended a welcoming hand to each of them, her expression appreciative. "It's a pleasure to meet you both."
Professor DuFour nodded graciously. "The pleasure is ours, Mrs. Thompson. We're here to ensure Alyssa's well-being and assist her in any way we can."
Professor Palladium's kind eyes crinkled with a warm smile. "Indeed. We're pleased to support Alyssa on her journey."
As they engaged in polite conversation, Alyssa's apprehension began to ease. She was comforted by the presence of her mentors and by her mother's open demeanor. With Laura's permission, they entered the house, continuing their discussion over tea.
Throughout the conversation, Laura and the professors exchanged stories and perspectives, their interactions harmonious and respectful. Alyssa marveled at how the worlds she had kept separate were now intertwining, and she felt a sense of unity she had never experienced before.
As the afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the windows, Alyssa's childhood photo album sat on the coffee table, its pages filled with memories frozen in time. Professor DuFour and Professor Palladium exchanged a curious glance as they noticed the album, bearing the name "Steven" on its cover.
Laura noticed their curiosity and smiled kindly. "Oh, that's Alyssa's childhood album. She was Steven back then. She was happy but now she's thriving."
Alyssa's cheeks turned a light shade of pink, a mixture of emotions swirling within her. She looked at her mother, her hazel eyes meeting Laura's green eys with a blend of gratitude and vulnerability. "Mom, it… its okay I want them to know."
Laura's smile remained warm and reassuring. She reached out, her hand gently resting on Alyssa's. "Of course, dear. They're a part of your journey now."
With Laura's encouragement, Professor DuFour and Professor Palladium delicately opened the album. The pages were filled with snapshots of a young boy, capturing moments of laughter, playfulness, and curiosity. The professors saw a child who exuded joy and innocence, completely unaware of the journey that lay ahead.
As they flipped through the pages, Professor DuFour's lips curled into a faint smile. "These are beautiful memories, Alyssa. It's clear that you had a happy and loving childhood. And you were always so feminine even before you came out."
Professor Palladium nodded in agreement, his gentle voice echoing his sentiment. "Indeed. These photos capture moments of pure happiness."
Alyssa's smile trembled slightly as she looked at the photos, her heart swelling with a mix of emotions. She had come a long way since those days, and sharing this part of her past felt both vulnerable and liberating.
Laura's gaze was filled with maternal pride as she looked at her child. "Alyssa, my love, I'm so proud of the person you've become and the fairy you're gonna become. The journey you've taken to find your true self is inspiring, and it's an honor to share this part of your story with your mentors."
Alyssa's voice was soft but steady as she responded, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "Thank you, Mom. And thank you for always supporting me. I couldn't have done it with out you."
As they continued to leaf through the album, the professors and Laura shared stories and anecdotes from Alyssa's childhood. The laughter and camaraderie in the room were a testament to the bonds that were forming between them.
The journey to Alyssa's home had not only been about retrieving supplies but about bridging the gap between her past and her present. Alyssa's journey of self-discovery was met with love, acceptance, and understanding from those who had become her extended family.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the room, the album remained open on the coffee table a collection of memories that were now woven into the tapestry of their shared experiences. Alyssa's past was celebrated, and her future was embraced, all within the embrace of friendship and support.
Before long the quartet had to leave and return to Alfea. Alyssa had her medications and planned to keep them in Bloom's room from now on and do the injection in the courtyard or in the forest away from the prying eyes of Stella, Lauren, Emily and any other fairies that they convinced to join the No Boy Fairies club. When Alyssa and Bloom returned they hurried to their dormitory to beat Stella's attempt to lock Alyssa out, while they were gone the sun came back from the clouds and was casting a vibrant orange as it set.