Aunty Alex

Fair warning; this story features a transexual character - if that is not your thing, then maybe this isn't the story for you. If it is, please enjoy...

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To understand this story you first need to know about the Benton clan.

In the town of Willowbrook Sam Benton, a shrewd local businessman, had crafted his empire with hard work and a touch of charm, while Eleanor, his creative, energetic wife, added grace to their seemingly perfect life.

Their first child, Emily, arrived soon after their marriage, a testament to the love that flourished within the Benton household. But as the years passed, so did the shadow that cast itself upon Eleanor. Restless spirits rarely find solace, and her struggle with depression and a brewing drink problem exposed the fragility of even the strongest bonds.

In a desperate bid to mend the fraying threads of their union, they welcomed a second child, Alex. He arrived like a burst of light, a ray of hope in a dimming world. Yet, fate's cruel hand struck again when Sam fell ill and passed away, leaving the family to grapple with the void he left behind.

Emily, now a young woman, met rebellion head-on. Life had woven a tapestry of hardships, and she bore the weight of it with a fierce determination. It wasn't long before she found herself with child, birthing a son named Lucas.

Eleanor's relapse brought the storm to a head. The residential care was a difficult decision, but a necessary one. It left Emily as the sole guardian of the two young boys, a role she shouldered with a blend of devotion and youthful exuberance.

Time wove its inexorable course, carrying Eleanor away. Emily, who at least had her parents' inheritance to fall back on, proved a very capable parent. She put herself through college, ensured a good ipbringing for Alex and Lucas, and did so while maintaining a relationship with both boys that straddled mother, sister and friend.

Lucas and Alex, though uncle and nephew by blood, shared a bond that ran deeper than mere family ties. They were like two sides of a coin, each complementing the other in ways only they could understand.

Alex, the enigmatic soul with a twinkle in his eye, was a mosaic of contradictions. Creative and quick-witted, he charmed his way through life's twists and turns. Slight in build, he carried an air of mystery that intrigued those lucky enough to cross his path. When asked to fit into a box, he'd simply flash that radiant smile and declare, "I'm Alex." He was a force of nature, channeling his grandmother's restlessness into a sunny outlook on life.

Lucas, on the other hand, was a figure of strength and athleticism. Time had sculpted him into a handsome young man, his stature evidence of his love for sport, particularly rugby. Lucas may have had a different build to Lucas but people still mistook them for brothers, their dark brown hair, sallow compexion and striking brown eyes gave them an unmistakeable similarity. Despite their five-year age gap, they hung out together like the best of friends. Raised as brothers, they had differing interests but it was their mutual love of a good time that kept them close.

Their banter was the soundtrack to their lives, a symphony of good-natured teasing and playful ribbing. Lucas thrived in the world of sports, finding his stride on the fields and courts, while Alex danced through phases like a chameleon changing its colors. From goth to rocker, ladies' man to an experimental flirtation with his own sexuality, androgynous and confident in every skin he wore.

As years rolled by, life took its turns, and Alex headed off to college, eager for new adventures. Visits back to Willowbrook became rare, but the connection with Lucas and Emily stayed strong, like it always had.

One day, curiosity got the better of them, and in hushed tones, Emily and Lucas asked Alex about his romantic escapades. They wanted to know about the rumour he was dating a guy. "So, are you gay?" His response? It was classic Alex: "I'm Alex."

Time moved on, and along came a girl who stirred something in Alex's heart. Emily and Lucas, ever the supportive duo, couldn't help but ask, "So, are you bi?" But once again, Alex's answer was just as clear, "I'm Alex."

Then, a subtle shift. Makeup, a bit of flair--Alex was discovering new layers of themselves. Emily and Lucas, always with love in their hearts, approached the topic with care. "Are you trans?" they wondered. And in that moment, with a wise smile, Alex replied, "I'm Alex."

In Lucas's eyes, Alex's ability to confidently chart his own course, even in the face of societal norms, was nothing short of admirable. It was a lesson that spoke volumes to Lucas, reminding him that true strength could be found in embracing one's authentic self, regardless of the external mold.

It was an inspiration to Lucas too, who soon would be on his own college adventure, completing his degree and beginning the pursuit of a career. This led him back home again to live with his mother, saving money while he found his feet. Alex would still visit from time to time, but his own career and his multitude of interests occupied him.

One evening Emily lounged on the couch, engrossed in her Instagram feed, when she stumbled upon a series of photos that gave her pause. There was Alex, radiant and glamorous, a whirlwind of colors and confidence. She nudged Lucas, who was sprawled out on the adjacent chair, engrossed in a game on his phone.

"Hey, look at these pictures of Alex!" Emily exclaimed, her eyes wide with surprise.

Lucas leaned over to get a better look, his curiosity piqued. "Whoa, when did this happen?"

Emily shook her head, still trying to process. "I have no idea. And look, there are signs... could he be on HRT?"

Lucas glanced at her, a mix of concern and intrigue in his eyes. "Should we call him and ask?"

Without hesitation, Emily grabbed her phone and dialed Alex's number. It rang a few times before he picked up, his laughter filling the line.

"Hey, you two! What's the scoop?" Alex's voice was as lively and carefree as ever.

Emily couldn't contain her curiosity. "Alex, we saw your pictures on Instagram! You look amazing. And, um, are you on HRT?"

Alex chuckled, the sound warm and reassuring. "Oh, Em, always getting straight to the point. Don't worry, I'm just me. No labels necessary."

Lucas couldn't help but join in. "Seriously, Alex, you've got to spill the secret of your glow-up."

Alex's laughter bubbled through the phone. "Ah, you know, a little makeup and a whole lot of self-love. But really, it's just me being... well, me."

Emily and Lucas exchanged amused glances, their worries fading into the background. There was something comforting about Alex's easy confidence.

"Well, we're here for you, no matter what," Emily reassured, her voice full of affection.

Lucas nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. You're Alex, and that's all that matters."

Alex's voice was touched with gratitude. "Thanks, you two. You always get it. Now, let's plan a get-together soon, alright?"

And that wasn't an empty promise from Alex. A few weeks later, he gave Lucas a call.

"Hey, I'm coming home for summer, Lukey, I'll be home just in time for your birthday. what do you reckon? I think we are long overdue a few pints?" he said, enthusiasthcally.

"Sure, that would be great. Are you off work?" Lucas queried.

"I have some time off to take, besides I have some new revenue streams, i can afford it."

A 22nd birthday is rarely one for major celebration. And meeting up with Alex for a few brewskis was just what Lucas fancied. Alex was the first person to take Lucas out to a pub, and a nightclub. They enjoyed meeting up whenever they could, their closeness of relationship making it easy to relax, knowing they could say basically anything to one another without causing offence.

But something made Lucas anxious as he waited in the bar for his uncle to arrive. Was Alex presenting as a girl now? And how would Lucas react to this?

Alex finally came into the bar... in guy clothes. he had his hair tied back under a baseball cap, wore a pair of jeans, a t-shirt and a loose fitting gillet jacket.

"Lukey!" Alex exclaimed loudly, "here, let me get these" he said as he joined Lucas at the bar.

Alex looked his uncle up and down, notifing a few small changes - the styled eyebows, the clear skin, the perfect manicure, his facial features somehow softened. "I wasn't sure whether you'd be in guy mode or girl mode."

"Oh were you hoping I'd turn up in a little skirt with my tits hanging out?" joshed Alex.

Lucas blushed, "No, I mean, whatever you want like, I don't mind. just i thought you were a girl now."

Alex looked at him sympathetically. "A girl, maybe? Maybe not, im just Alex. Anyway I didnt want the old boys in here choking on their Ale if they saw my curvy ass pass them by," he winked.

"Oh somebody has a high opinion of themselves," Lucas shot back, not afraid to tease Alex.

"Of course, I'm hot shit. You've seen my insta - all the straight boys creaming themselves over me," he laughed

"All fancy filters I suppose," said Lucas, cynically, "and stick on tits".

Alex knew better than to be offended by Lucas. "I'll have you know these boobies are one hundred percent natural."

"What boobies?" grinned Lucas.

Alex turned to Lucas and quickly unzipped his gillet, then pulled down the neck of his t-shirt showing generous cleavage without anyone but Lucas seeing it. "These mamas bitch!" Alex retorted. "Why do you think I'm wearing this stupid jacket in this weather? fashion?!"

"That's so fucking weird." Lucas stated, deadpan.

"Thank you so much, Trans ally of the year," said Alex, pithily.

"Oh so you are trans now?" Lucas sniped.

Alex narrowed his eyes, "I never said i wasnt, I'm just not into labels. Besides, trans people don't turn trans gobshite. Trans people are born trans."

"Ok, ok," Lucas rolled back, knowing he was beginning to be a bit too much of a jerk. "We're getting away from the real issue here, you thinking youre some kind of superstar instagirl."

"Hey I am a superstar instagirl!" Alex jumped back. "And ive got the sponsorship deals to prove it."

"That doesnt mean you're actually hot, just insta hot," Lucas jibed.

"Well I don't know what the fuck that means, and yes I might not be as hot as Emily, but I know I can pull it off," Alex pleaded.

"Wait, wait, wait, back the fuck up, what did you say about Mum?" Lucas gasped.

"Emily's super hot, you see that, I mean come on, it's obvious," Alex explained incredulously.

Lucas looked shocked, "Dude, what the fuck, that's your sister."

"Oh come on," Alex sounded exacerbated. "That figure, those legs, those glorious tits, you've surely noticed."

Lucas shook his head.

"Well this explains it," Alex continued, "You clearly have a blind spot with family members, that's why you can't admit you think I'm hot."

Lucas burst out laughing.

"Fine, I bet you I can prove it in the next minute," Alex added.

"Fine," Lucas replied, "you're on. Loser buys the next round". They shook hands.

Alex called over the barman. "Here, bud, settle a bet for us." The barman approached. Alex took out his phone and showed it to him. "What do you think of this girl?"

Lucas caught a glimpse of the screen. Alex was showing the man images of himself, in girl mode in various stages of undress.

"Oooooh," exclaimed the barman, "she's smokin'. How do you know her?"

Alex smiled. "Let's just say we're close."

"I wouldn't mind getting close with her!" the barman chuckled.

Alex turned to Lucas, a smug grin beaming on his face. "Two more pints please," was all Lucas said.

********************

Despite Alex being back at home, Lucas saw very little of him over the following days. Lucas was busy applying to different consulting firms, trying to make the most of his qualifications and his limited work experience. After a few difficult interviews Lucas was begining to get despondent, but then a friend from the Rugby club rang him to tell him about an event on that coming Saturday.

"It's super cas," explained Henry. "There'll be like, 30 people and their guests. Big knobs from all the major firms. A kind of a get to know you thing with newbies in the industry. You should totes go. And bring a friend or a date. It's for the industry but not about the industry, if you get it. You make an impression without talking work. But you don't want to go alone, you could be miserable in the corner by yourself."

Lucas didn't have a date, and he couldn't in good conscience subject one of his buddies to something like this. Then he thought - Alex though, he's family - I can make him do it.

**************

"I'll do it," Alex answered immediately.

'That was easier than I thought' Lucas thought to himself.

"I get it, you want me to glam the place up. A bit of arm candy to make the guys jealous," Alex added.

"Oh for fuck sake, you're not coming if you keep going on like that," said Lucas exacerbated.

"Take it easy, I'm only teasing. I do want to switch back to girl mode though, I do much prefer it, and I've barely looked at my makeup bag since I came here," Alex explained.

Lucas saw his opportunity to be supportive. "Of course, its no problem with me."

Alex smiled, deviously, then pirouetted on the spot. Walking out of the room he said "great. I can't wait."

*************

"Come on Alex hurry the fuck up, we were supposed to be there by seven!" yelled Lucas, standing at the doorway.

"I'm coming, be patient, this magic doesn't just happen," Alex's voice came echoing down the stairs.

"Magic," Lucas chuckled to himself, turning to look out the window. "The taxi is here." The sound of heels clicking on the staircse caused him to turn again.

Alex descended the stairs, her steps purposeful, confidence radiating from her. The minidress she wore was daring, the low cut revealing, and the fabric shimmered with every move. She caught Lucas' gaze, a playful twinkle in her eyes.

Lucas blinked, momentarily struck speechless by the striking figure in the dim light. Her sallow skin glowed with a subtle golden undertone, accentuated by a touch of bronzed highlighter that caught the light just so. Her features were delicately defined, her large almond shaped expressive dark brown eyes framed by carefully arched brows.

Her lips, painted a shade of deep burgundy, added a bold contrast to the rest of her makeup. The lipstick was expertly applied, the edges sharp and precise. A subtle smoky eye enhanced the depth of her gaze, the dark shadows blending seamlessly with a touch of shimmering bronze on her eyelids.

Alex's dress was a masterpiece of daring elegance. The low cut neckline plunged, revealing just enough of her cleavage to leave an impression of mystery. The fabric clung to her petite yet curvaceous frame, the hem daringly high but tastefully balanced by the modesty of the long sleeves. The dress itself was a deep, velvety black that seemed to absorb and reflect the ambient light, creating an aura of subtle sensuality.

Her dark brown hair was styled in loose waves, framing her face and tumbling down her shoulders in a cascade of glossy silk. Each strand seemed to catch the light, creating a subtle halo effect around her.

On her feet, she wore stiletto heels that accentuated the graceful curve of her legs. The shoes were a matching shade of black, the gleam of patent leather adding a final touch of sophistication to her ensemble.

Lucas cleared his throat, attempting to find the right words. "You look... stunning," he managed, his voice tinged with awe.

Alex smirked, a hint of mischief in her smile. "Why, thank you, Lucas. You're not looking too shabby yourself," she teased, giving him an appreciative once-over.

Lucas straightened his tie, trying to regain composure. "Let's get going then." He offered his arm, and Alex linked hers through it with a graceful nod.

************

Sitting in the rear seat of the taxi, Lucas could not help but steal glances at the attractive young woman he called his uncle. Alex noticed Lucas' eyes on her boobs, and was quick to call him on it.

"I knew the tits would bamboozle you!" She teased, suddenly startling Lucas.

"No, I mean," Lucas was flustered, "you can't blame me for looking. You have them out on show."

"Don't slut shame your aunty," Alex scolded, jokingly. "They're fun, honestly have a feel," she added, her hand squeezing her right breast through her dress, "seriously, you should think about getting some yourself."

"Oh fuck off Alex I'm not squeezing your tits," Lucas said quite loudly, loud enough to get the drivers attention.

Alex laughed, finding this hilarious. Lucas went red. The driver coughed, "we're here now."

**********

The venue, a blend of exposed brick walls and sleek, contemporary furnishings, set the perfect backdrop for the gathering.

A long, communal table took center stage, adorned with tasteful floral arrangements and twinkling fairy lights. It beckoned guests to gather and share in the evening's festivities. Intimate clusters of seating arrangements encouraged easy conversation and networking.

"Now aren't you glad I came," Alex suggested to Lucas, "everybody appears to have a glamorous partner with them."

"I still reckon I'm the only person here to invite their drinking buddy uncle," Lucas quipped, as ever not letting Alex away with self praise.

An older gentleman approached them. "Ah hello, I'm Richard O'Gorman from O'Gorman Shields, I am the host tonight."

Lucas recognised Mr O'Gorman, and was keen to impress him. "Lucas Benton Sir," he blurted out, "I'm recently qualified and looking to explore career options."

"You're very welcome young man," said Mr O'Gorman, "and who may I ask is this delightful young lady with you?"

"This is my..." Lucas began, but Alex interrupted.

"I'm Alex," she offered.

"And are you in the industry Alex?" O'Gorman enquired, busily devouring her body with his eyes.

"No, I'm just her for Lucas," she grinned.

"Well then," O'Gorman replied, "why don't you two sit up near the top of the table, I would love to get to know you," he suggested before finally moving on.

Lucas and Alex were welcomed into two seats next to O'Gorman and a lady who turned out to be his wife, O'Gorman ensuring he was next to Alex.

As the evening progressed, the wine flowed. Alex, brazen as ever, charmed the other guests with her wit, then men, particularly, also drawn in by her appearance.

Lucinda O'Gorman, the glamorous younger wife of Richard, with a glint in her eye, turned to Alex and Lucas and fired off the classic question: "So, how did you two lovebirds meet?"

Alex and Lucas exchanged a quick, conspiratorial look. It was time to whip up a story that was believable.

"Well," Alex began with a sly grin, "it was a wild night at this nightclub. Lucas here, you see, he was showing off his 'moves' on the dance floor."

Lucas couldn't help but play along, his eyes dancing with mischief. "Oh yeah, you know me, busting out the most questionable dance moves known to humanity."

The people around them erupted into laughter, and the woman leaned in, eager for more. "And then what happened?"

Alex leaned in, her tone conspiratorial. "Well, there was a dare involved, you see. Lucas had to pull off the smoothest pickup line he could muster."

Lucas couldn't help but ham it up. "So, I sauntered over to Alex, looked her square in the eye, and said, 'Is your name Google? Because you've got everything I've been searching for.'"

Cue more laughter and a few playful eye rolls.

"And then," Alex concluded with a wink, "that's when he laid one on me, right there in the middle of the dance floor. Our first kiss, and he could not keep his hands off me."

The others laughed and applauded. Alex turned to Lucas, sporting a pouty smile. Lucas felt like she was daring him to kiss her, her luscious, pretty lips suddenly looking so tempting. But he just smiled and turned away.