I rushed downstairs and opened the door just as Akiko was about to ring the doorbell, afraid of what would happen if Dad answered the door. "Now is not a good time, Akiko," I said as I stepped outside and closed the door.
"I'm afraid it's now or never, Holly; I have another five deliveries to supervise today." She continued, pointing to the delivery men unloading the truck, "They've been on the clock since 4:30 this morning, ensuring that each delivery goes smoothly."
I shook my head and said, "You don't understand; my dad didn't take it well when I told him what happened, and his reaction to learning about Mom was no better. I'd hate to see how he reacts if he finds out about you."
"Don't be concerned about me; I've dealt with unsupportive family members in the past." Akiko paused for a second and then remarked, "I remember the time this one guy freaked out because his twin brother had become a 5-year-old girl."
"Wow; you've seen a lot, haven't you?" I said, raising an eyebrow.
"You better believe it," Akiko said, nodding. "My husband, an NCIS agent in Bremerton, claims he couldn't handle the stress of my job. He deals with murders and drug trafficking on a daily basis, and he believes I have the more stressful job."
Hearing all of that, I took a moment to reflect. "Okay, let's get this over with as quickly as possible. The longer you stay here, the more likely it is that my father will say something stupid."
Akiko smiled and motioned for the others to begin bringing the boxes inside. As the two of us moved out of the way, she asked, "How are things now that everyone you know thinks you're a trans woman?"
"Actually, they're pretty supportive; in fact, one of my cousins wants me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding next year. I told her I'd think about it because I didn't have the heart to tell her I might not be a woman at that time." I took a deep breath and added, "There were a lot of negative comments, calling me everything from a freak to a pervert and saying I needed mental help. I'd rather not discuss my step-cousin's comment."
"Would you like some advice from someone who has walked in your shoes for a while?" Akiko continued, looking at me, "You don't start work until Thursday, so use this time to unwind and get acclimated. I'm not going to lie: when I returned to the United States, I bought myself a vibrator and wore it out in less than a week."
"I'll think about it," I said, resting my hand on Akiko's shoulder. "Come on, I think we should go check on your delivery guys."
As we oversaw the delivery, Akiko's efficiency and professionalism impressed me. She made sure everything was in order and that nothing went amiss. It was clear that she took her responsibilities seriously.
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