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The following week, your parents came to visit. Your dad was off playing golf with Charlie, and you were in your kitchen at home helping Carrie make cookies.

"How are you and Marco doing, sweetie?" Carrie asked.

"Oh, good Mother. He's my first love after all," you replied. Carrie nodded.

"So, we're having a gender reveal party next week. I know crowds aren't your thing. But you need to know. We're having mixed twins, a boy and a girl. I promised your father this as part of letting me help you become Joanie. The boy is going to be named John, Jr. But we're going to call him Jack. The girl is going to be named Cathleen. And we're going to call her Cathy." You took a deep breath. This was a lot to take in.

"I didn't want you triggered, since John Jr. is your deadname. Another reason we're going to call him Jack," Carrie finished.

"I appreciate that, Mother. I'm surprised you decided on Cathleen for the girl." Carrie smiled thinly.

"Your mother gave me a high bar to clear. And she deserves that legacy." You nodded.

"Well, you cleared the bar and then some, Mother." Carrie beamed and kissed your cheek.