Rainwear Central Rainwear Forum

It's been a long time between drinks, but I finally managed to complete an all new story. This one's an absolute cracker of a tale, which I think you'll really enjoy. It's about a young couple and their rainwear adventures in the Philippines.

I had to post this in several sections, because its too long to post in one go.

ENCASED IN LOVE’S PLASTIC EMBRACE

“What do you want to do today, my darling Erica?” Michael asked while they finished eating their breakfast. He looked at the pretty girl facing him and smiled. Standing 5’6” in height, his girlfriend was unusually tall for a Filipina, although she was as slim and supple as a reed. Her lovely, expressive heart-shaped face was framed by a lion’s mane of wild, frizzy lustrous jet-black hair. Her curvaceous button nose was the cutest thing he’d ever seen, and he didn’t mind saying so. Somewhat surprisingly, Erica disliked the diminutive size of her nose and they frequently disagreed about the topic. Fortunately, her tiny, perfectly formed ears were much less controversial. Michael loved playing with them while they were cuddling together.

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

He’d only arrived in the Philippines six weeks ago. Although he’d barely spent any real time in person with his girlfriend, whom he’d met through an online dating agency, Michael already knew that he never wanted to be with anyone else again. Erica was a real angel in name and personality. He’d never met anyone as warm, friendly, caring and endlessly loving as her, all his life. More importantly, Erica was as relaxed and easy-going as the day was long. He’d never, not once, seen her display any impatience or anger during their chats or the time they’d spent together. The infamous, childish “tampo” (sulkiness) that so many Filipinas are prone to, was completely absent in Erica. The closest she ever came to anger, was a mild reproachful annoyance and even that didn’t last long. Somehow her unspoken disappointment always manage to make him feel bad.

Although Erica wasn’t ‘young’ at 35 of age, she was very far from conservative. As open-minded as the day was long, she’d taken to the kinky sex Michael introduced to her like a fish to water. Apart from the great fun they had together, it’d also brought them much closer together. As Erica perceptively pointed out, “it only takes five minutes to make love, but we can wear our rubber suits or raincoats all day long.” Giggling, “Or in bed too.”

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

“We’re low on food and drink,” Erica sighed. “We need to go out for groceries.”

“Ok.” Michael smiled. “What shall we buy today?”

“Lots.” Erica grinned as she displayed a long shopping list.

“Hope you remembered my Coke.”

Sternly, “No Coke for you. Diet coke lang.” Erica looked outside the window. “It’s going to rain.”

“Really?” Michael said. “I thought it was going to be fine today.”

“Yes,” Erica firmly replied. “It’s going to rain. We’ll need our raincoats today.”

“Sure?” he replied. “It’s only very light rain.”

“I’m sure,” Erica replied in her ‘Don’t argue with me’ kind voice that he’d already come to know so well. “I want you to wear your plastic raincoat, Michael. Oh, and you will also put on and wear your plastic rain pants and rainboots too. We’re not going out until you put your rainwear on. It’s for your own good, you know.”

“Yes, Erica…” Michael obediently replied. “I hear and obey.” He’d learned a long time ago that arguing with Erica was not a good idea. She has a stubborn streak a mile long.

“Good.” Erica hugged him tightly. “Don’t worry, I will wear my raincoat too.”

“Of course you will,” Michael chuckled.

“Ok, come on.” Erica pulled him inside their roomy bedroom. “Sit down and take your clothes off.”

“Huh? Why?”

Erica smiled sweetly. “I don’t want you taking your raincoat off, so… you’re going to wear your plastic pants and playsuit underneath.”

“What? Are you serious?”

“Yes, I’m serious,” Erica coolly answered. “Why?”

“But what if it stops raining?”

“Then we’ll both be in trouble, because I won’t be able to take my raincoat off too.” Erica giggled loudly. “I remember you said you want do that one day. Now we are.”

“Wow…” Michael could not believe that this was happening. He’d never really expected Erica to take his fantasies this seriously. “Are you sure you want to do this? I was only joking, you know.”

“You better believe it. Yes, I do.” Erica walked over to the closet where they stored most of their rainwear and other plastic clothing. “I’m not joking.”

“You want me to wear all this?” Michael disbelievingly asked as she dropped everything on their bed.

“Yes, Michael. I want you to wear all this.” Erica giggled again. She was enjoying herself very much. It was actually much more fun telling him what to do. Erica was determined to make sure that he obeyed every decision she made regarding wearing their rainwear from now on. “Now put your plastic pants on.”

Being told what to do was so kilig. Erica’s smile told him everything he needed to know as he happily slipped his impossibly smooth soft pink polka-dot plastic briefs on. She handed him his large blue ‘Gary’ full-cut plastic pants, the ones that went halfway up his stomach. “You really believe in total protection, huh?”

“Yes, Mike… I do. Put them on now.” Erica folded her arms over each other to show she meant business. Until meeting Michael, she’d never even thought that rainwear might serve any purpose other than keeping its wearer dry if it was raining. At first, she’d had trouble understanding why he enjoyed wearing plastic rainwear so much – until the very great day she’d received some plastic pants and a shiny yellow rainsuit in the mail. Curious to see what all the fuss was about, she’d tried them on in the privacy of her bedroom. Her brand-new plastic panties fitted her like a glove. They were so cool and smooth and slippery to the touch. She could not get over how nice her gorgeous plastic pants felt! Since that fateful day, she’d wore her plastic undies all day long, every single day. Now she was completely addicted to the absolutely wonderful sensations and feelings that wearing plastic undergarments and rainwear provided her body. Erica giggled softly. He’d been completely shocked, when after first meeting at the airport, she’d taken her clothes off at the hotel to reveal the two pairs of plastic pants she was wearing.

“Yes, Erica.” Michael pretended to sigh while he pulled the second pair of plastic pants up his stomach.

“Don’t sigh.” Erica smirked before giggling again. “I know you’re enjoying, diba?” She selected his translucent, see-through hot pink plastic playsuit and gave it to him.

“You know me so well,” Michael chuckled while he shimmied inside his stretchy, neck-entry playsuit. He sighed with pleasure as the soft smooth plastic clung to his body.

“Feel good so much?” Erica asked. It was not a question. She gazed in the direction of Michael’s crotch. His penis was so big now. Oh my God.

“What do you think?” Michael smiled.

Erica laughed. “I know how much you love wearing plastic. That’s good, because you’ll be wearing your plastic pantes and rainwear all day long.”

“Really?” Michael replied. “All day long?”

“Come on, we’re wasting time,” Erica said. “Anyone would think you don’t want to wear your raincoat.”

“Hey!” Michael protested. “I never said that.”

“Good.” Erica giggled again. “Put these on.” She held his gleaming buttercup-yellow vinyl rainpants out for him. They shone like a newly polished car under the light.

“You’re dressing me for a super-duper Category 6 typhoon,” Michael mused while he pulled his slick, smooth rainpants on. “Are you sure that they’re really necessary?”

“Of course,” Erica replied. “Remember you told me that we must wear our raincoats, rainpants and rainboots if it is raining?”

Michael nodded. Uncomfortably, “Er… yes.”

“Exactly.” Erica smiled brilliantly. “So… we will wear our plastic rainwear when we go out today, whether you like it or not.”

“Always be prepared and all that, eh?”

“Absolutely.” Erica looked around. “Ok, raincoat.” She picked up his shiny yellow slicker and shook it loose. “Let me help you, my mahal.”

Not for the first time, Michael felt as if he’d entered a parallel universe as his semi-naked girlfriend helped him dress for the rain. Erica’s plastic briefs gleamed in the light while she carefully fastened each button from the top to the bottom. “Belt na…” she murmured before pulling it tight. “Now your raincoat will not come off.”

“Yeah…” Michael murmured. He looked outside the window. “Um… Erica, it’s stopped raining.”

“Too bad.” Erica giggled. “We wear raincoat.”

“It’s gonna be a fun day.” Michael could see large patches of blue sky appearing amongst the clouds. A brilliant streak of sunlight illuminated the bedroom before disappearing a moment later.

“My darling Mike…” Erica whispered before hugging him hard. “It’s so kilig! Don’t you think so?”

“Oh, definitely,” Michael reluctantly agreed. “Ok, why don’t you put your rainwear on now? What’s good for the goose is also good for the gander, you know.”

“There’s nothing more I want to wear with you, my mahal…” Erica hugged him again. “Please help me dress for the rain, then we’ll go out.”

“Of course, my darling!” Michael smiled. Erica was completely naked, save for her plastic briefs covering her crotch and butt. He gently cupped her small breasts in his hands and gently squeezed them.

“Hey, stop that!” She playfully swatted his hand away. “Later.”

“Ok…” Michael theatrically sighed.

Erica looked around. Their bed was covered in enough plastic to sink the Titanic. She picked up her large, full-cut plastic pants. “Shall I wear these?”

“Say it,” Michael demanded. “Tell me what you want.”

“Please make me wear my plastic pants,” Erica whispered. “Please make me put my plastic panties on and lock me in them, so I cannot take them off.”

Not for the first time, Michael could not believe that, in Erica, he’d met someone possibly more ‘into’ plastic than he was. She was just amazing. “Ok, Erica,” he replied with a sternness that he did not feel. “Put your plastic pants on now and I’ll lock them for you.”

Erica could feel her chest contract with excitement as she slowly pulled her plastic panties on. She adored this moment when they had to go on, before being locked in place to prevent unauthorized removal. It was a ritual they enjoyed every morning before going out. She was never allowed to undo her plastic pants, except for the most pressing of reasons. Erica peered downwards as she pulled her babyish blue animal print plastic pants all the way up her trim stomach until they sat neatly over her much smaller pair of plastic briefs. After adjusting them, she raised her arms so Michael could lock them. He pulled the chain tight and she sucked in her stomach so he could tighten it even more. Her heart was beating like a bass drum as the familiar ‘click!’ of the padlock, which told her she was now locked in her plastic pants, echoed around the room.

“Thank you for always ensuring I wear my plastic pants,” Erica smiled. “You know I really love it when you force me to wear them whether I like it or not.”

“It’s a pleasure,” Michael smiled. “Ok, put your plastic playsuit on now.”

Michael’s chest was so tight that it almost hurt while he helped his partner slip her translucent, see-through plastic playsuit on. It was a very special, precious form of intimacy he’d never thought possible until meeting her. Erica’s gorgeous playsuit left nothing to the imagination. He could easily see her bouncy breasts through the thin plastic.

Noticing his gaze, Erica smiled and cupped her breasts in her hands. “Mmm…. That feels good,” Erica sighed with pleasure as she caressed her tingling tits through the plastic material of her playsuit. “Hug me please.”

“Of course!” Michael happily wrapped his arms around the girl he loved before sharing a long, long kiss together. “I want you, my darling. What say we…”

“No.” Erica giggled loudly. “I know you so well. Yes, Mike… I know what you are thinking. We will go out, rain or shine, in our shiny, safety yellow plastic raincoats.”

“I don’t think anyone could possibly miss seeing us today,” Michael sighed. Sunshine was streaming through the window now. It didn’t look remotely rainy.

“Why? Is that a problem?” Erica giggled. She’d been doing a lot of that lately. Her smile was brighter than the sun as she sat down on the edge of the bed before pulling her thick, heavy-duty plastic bloomers on. Constructed out of a lovely thick semi-transparent yellow polka-dot plastic, they were just deliciously sexy. Michael bit his lip hard. Ignoring his erection was easier said than done as she stood before hitching her plastic bloomers all the way up her stomach and adjusting the leg openings just above her knees. Before he had a chance to comment, she quickly put her shiny yellow vinyl rainpants on.

“Wait,” Michael said before looking inside the closet. “Here. Put this on first.” He held a short, but extremely soft and smooth plastic ‘jelly’ jacket, out for her to put on. Its translucent orange folds gleamed in the sun streaming through the window.

“I like these,” Erica commented. She happily zipped it all the way up to the neck.

“Raincoat,” Michael smiled. “Put it on now.”

Erica smiled. She was really enjoying herself. “Ok.”

Aware of Michael’s undivided attention, Erica happily drew out the dressing process for him. She loved being the centre of attention. Her favourite shiny yellow vinyl raincoat was lying on the bed, and she picked it up. Erica gasped with pleasure as she pulled her raincoat on. Its gleaming vinyl folds crackled loudly as she slipped her arms down each sleeve before adjusting everything.

“Very sexy,” Michael chuckled.

“Thank you,” Erica giggled. “Help me do up my raincoat, please.”

“Your wish is my command…” Michael gazed into Erica’s beautiful face. Her eyes were huge, liquid pools of love as he stood in front of his raincoated companion. Erica was a statue while he carefully fastened each set of buttons until she was enclosed in rippling yellow from neck to toe. Erica lifted her arms so he could do the attached belt, which he carefully cinched as tight as it would go. “Wowww…” Michael admiringly said. “You look great!”

Erica hugged Michael so hard that he could hardly breathe. “You look very handsome too. I love you, my darling.”

“I love you too, my ganda rain angel.”

“Rain angel…” Erica giggled. “I love it.”

“It’s not raining,” Michael sighed. “Are you absolutely sure you want to go out in our raincoats?”

“Of course!” Erica exclaimed. “Are you shy to go out in our shiny yellow raincoats?”

“Um…” Michael sighed. “I wasn’t expecting it to be this sunny.”

Erica folded her arms. Sternly, “We wear raincoat whether you like it or not.” She looked into his eyes. “I’m serious, Michael. We are going out, and we are going to wear our lovely shiny yellow plastic raincoats and rainpants.” She smiled sweetly. “We wear raincoat, even if it’s hot and sunny.”

“Yeah… ok.” Michael knew that nothing would change Erica’s mind. Of course, he COULD always say ‘no’, but she would be very annoyed with him. Besides, they were out of milk and other essential groceries. They had no choice except go out.

“Good.” Erica smiled again. “That reminds me.” She lifted the hood of Michael’s raincoat over his head and drew the laces tight under his chin.

“Hey!” Michael said. “No need. It’s not raining.”

Erica shook her head: no. “The hood is a part of your raincoat and you will do it up nice and tight.”

“Ok… go ahead.” Michael knew that arguing with Erica was useless. She never, not once, raised her voice, much less display any form of anger. But… once Erica dug her heels in over something, there was nothing he could say or do to change her mind. He inhaled deeply. Oh well. This was so sweet though! Erica’s heavenly smile filled his face while she drew the attached hood tight over his head before lacing it closed with one, then another knot.

“Weather protection is very important,” Erica giggled while she laced the hood of her orange jelly jacket as tight as possible. “Don’t you think so?”

“Yeah…” Michael agreed while he watched Erica pull the hood of her shiny yellow raincoat over her head and carefully doing it up so no one could see the one underneath.

“Now we are ready for the rain, my darling,” Erica said as she checked her reflection in the mirror. Her shiny yellow raincoat gleamed like a brand-new car under the ceiling light. She adjusted the belt so it would not slip.

“You could say that,” Michael said. The sun was shining brightly.

“Put your rainboots on now,” Erica ordered after shutting the front door.

“It’s hot.” Michael complained. “My slippers will be fine.”

Erica shook her head. “No. Your rubber rainboots are part of your rainwear and you will wear them.” Her eyes bored into Michael’s. “Now put them on!”

“Yes, Erica,” Michael replied. He could not believe the sudden change in his normally easy-going girlfriend. He’d never expected her to be capable of this level of strictness.

This was the best fun she’d had for years. Erica badly wanted to laugh while he watched him putting his rainboots on. “Wait,” she said, before kneeling and neatly tucking the bottom of his vinyl rainpants inside his rubber rainboots. The look of pure confusion decorating Michael’s face was so funny! Bet he wasn’t expecting that.

“Now we are all ready for the rain,” Erica giggled while she slipped her matching yellow Wellingtons on.

“But… Erica?” Michael asked. “Where is the rain?”

“Oh, be quiet,” Erica crossly replied. “We are wearing our raincoats, whether you like it or not.”

“Ok… ok…” Michael knew when he was beaten. “I hear and obey, my darling.”

“Good boy.” Erica wrapped her arms around his neck for a quick hug before kissing him. “I love you.”

“I love you more.”

“You know what?” Erica said.

“What?”

“Raincoats are our love language, my darling.” Erica kissed him again.

“Er… yes,” Michael breathed. “You could say that.”

“I really love wear plastic na,” Erica smiled. “But… my darling Mike… I love you so much. I love you more than I can say.”

Michael was so touched that he didn’t know what to say. It was such a simple and pure declaration of love, just like the girl herself. “Thank you, my darling,” he eventually replied. “You really are my special Rain Angel in every way. I love you so much too.”

“You know,” Erica quietly said, as she gripped his hand harder, “I love wear plastic raincoat because it’s part of you, so… it’s also part of me naman. Like I said, it’s our love language and our style.”

“Indeed,” Michael agreed. “Phew… it’s hot.” He wiped his sweaty forehead. The hot sun was already doing its best to roast them alive in their plastic prisons.

“It is a bit warm, isn’t it?” Erica admitted.

“You’re the one who wanted to wear our raincoats,” Michael reminded her.

“I know, I know.” Erica pretended to sigh.

Hopefully, “What say we go back inside and change? It’s too hot to go out like this.”

“Michael! No!” Erica exclaimed. “We are going to wear our raincoats whether you like it or not.”

“I hear you loud and clear.” Michael sighed softly.

“Look, it’s going to rain.” Erica smirked before turning to him. “Happy now?”

“Oh, my God…!” Michael exclaimed. “It really does looks like it’s going to rain soon.” He studied the swelling mass of steel-grey clouds rapidly filling the sky with more than a little relief.

Erica giggled. Her smile was brighter than the sun bouncing off their gleaming rainwear. “I told you we need wear raincoat today.”

The heat and humidity were greater than ever as Michael and Erica strolled down the road. Giggling young children ran alongside them, while they curiously studied their outlandish rainy-day apparel. More than once, Michael inwardly cringed inside as their goggling neighbours spotted them. Everyone seemed to think it was great fun though. Erica was laughing and joking with everyone. Michael couldn’t see any of the contempt or even outright hostility that he usually encountered back home.

It was warmer than ever and sweat began to form on the inside of their rainwear but it was strangely cooling. Eventually they reached the concreted main road and the jeepney stop not far away from the tiny T-junction intersection. The jeepney stop was so small that it didn’t even merit a traffic light or any other form of crossing signals. Michael could see people staring as they approached the shelter. They were the only people dressed for a super-typhoon. Everyone else were wearing light sundresses or the ubiquitous unisex ‘uniform’ of shorts, simple t-shirts and flip-flops that everyone preferred around here.

Erica smiled brilliantly. “Soon it will rain. Then they wish they put raincoat on. You see.”

Michael nodded. The approaching clouds were invisible from the uncertain sanctuary of the jeepney stop. Several towering trees provided much needed shade during the dog days of summer when the heat became so great that you could fry an egg on the road. The wind was picking up now, and dead leaves bounced and skittered along the side of the road. A bus stopped to pick up a couple of passengers and Michael noticed the people inside curiously studying them. The baking road changed colour as cloud began to fill the sky. The storm was almost upon them now. The teenage schoolgirls openly deriding their rainwear weren’t laughing any longer. Michael could see them exchanging worried glances as it began to darken noticeably. The wind was much stronger and colder now.

Without any warning, a fat raindrop fell and struck the hot concrete, leaving a dark stain where it landed. It actually sizzled before rapidly vanishing, but others quickly followed it. A strange, earthy scent rapidly filled the cooling air as the storm edged closer. Michael smiled. He knew that this unique smell was called ‘petrichor’. It’s a combination of ozone and the mineral tang of dry earth receiving the life-giving water it needed to sustain the life growing from it. Within seconds, the heavens opened up, dumping great, roaring torrents of water on everyone below.

Water bounced and pinged off their shiny yellow rainwear, but not one drop penetrated the impossibly smooth vinyl. The gale-force wind lifted the hem of their raincoats, exposing their legs to the elements. Rain splattered their rainpants and matching boots, leaving muddy streaks where they’d struck the dusty verge before showering them with water.

“Woww…” Erica breathed as she gazed around. The road had virtually vanished behind a wall of grey. She glanced sideways. Almost all their fellow commuters were scrambling for cover beneath the inadequate concrete shelter, built more for protection from the sun than the rain. Only a few people had thought to bring umbrellas but even they were being showered with water. The howling wind casually picked up one umbrella and flung it across the road. Its cursing owner chased it across the empty highway before angrily retrieving its broken remains.

“If only she’d worn a raincoat,” Michael chuckled.

“Aren’t you glad I made you put your rainwear on, before we go out today?” Erica giggled.

“Yeah, yeah…” Michael replied while he studied the chaotic scenes unfolding in front of their eyes. A pretty girl was hurriedly donning her knee-length blue plastic raincoat and she shot them a quick smile while she struggled to fasten the hood. Her thin raincoat was little more a placebo in this weather, but at least it would protect her hair and shoulders. Nearly all the traffic had stopped, save for one stubborn bus which rumbled past with a shower of spray. How its driver could see in the rain, Michael had no idea and he said so.

“Driver impatient,” Erica sighed. “Many accidents here, you know. They drive too fast, never give way. They don’t care.” Scornfully, “Schedule more important than safety.”

Michael nodded. “Yeah, I’ve noticed that.” At least the small, hunchbacked tricycles perambulating around the town had been smart enough to stop on the side of the road. Their headlights shone yellowly in the driving rain as their drivers struggled with the heavy plastic rain-shields. As usual, half of them were overloaded and their mostly young passengers were cowering under the tiny ‘roofs’ covering the bike itself. None of them were wearing rainwear, although several people had pulled their umbrellas out in the mostly forlorn hope of staying dry.

Eventually, the frontal edge of the storm swept through. The visibility gradually began to improve from five to ten, fifty and a hundred metres, although the rain continued to tumble down heavily. It was also significantly cooler, much to their relief. Traffic began to flow again. Anxious to continue earning fares, the majority of tricycles set off as soon it was clear enough to see. The rain was heavy enough that nobody ventured forth from the shelter where they’d taken refuge. At least the wind had mostly dropped, so it was more or less falling vertically now. Apart from their friendly companion who’d joined them, they were the only people standing beneath the tumbling rain.

An overloaded jeepney drove past without stopping, much to the visible frustration of the waterlogged commuters who wanted nothing more than an escape from the rain, no matter how temporary. The bedraggled schoolgirls were complaining loudly about the rain. A couple more fully loaded jeepneys rumbled past and the mood grew darker than the heavy grey clouds washing the life out of the day. The chickens inside the boxes tied to the roof couldn’t be enjoying the ride much, he thought.

The rain never let up during the long wait for an empty jeepney. Erica gripped Michael’s hand tightly as the driving rain struck their slick, wet rainwear with a musical ‘pitter patter’. Water streamed down the sleeves and sides of their raincoats before puddling around their rainboots.

“This is so much fun,” Erica quietly said. “It’s so nice wearing our raincoats in the rain.”

“It sure is,” Michael happily agreed.

“Look, the jeepney is here,” Erica said. The moment it pulled up with a juddering halt outside the shelter, an undignified scrambling, winner-takes-all maul developed outside the rear entrance. It was raining cats and dogs again and everyone was desperate to avoid being soaked.

Unworried about getting wet, Michael and Erica politely waited for everyone else to board first. The girl wearing the blue plastic mac also hung back as well. After several chaotic minutes, amidst the bawling of cold, wet and frightened children, everyone managed to clamber aboard. Much to their surprise, the other passengers had thoughtfully made room for them next to the open rear entrance. They’d clearly appreciated being allowed to board before them.

Michael tried not to think about what would happen if the driver lost control while they barreled down the highway. He was driving as if his decrepit jeepney was a highly tuned Formula One car on race slicks. He hadn’t even thought to dog down the heavy, grimy plastic storm curtains, which flapped viciously in the wind and rain. If anything, the amount of water and spray coming inside only made matters worse. The shivering passengers huddled closely together for warmth. Erica snuggled up close against Michael and he caressed her shoulder. The still-wet vinyl was very smooth to the touch. She was talking to the girl in the blue raincoat who was seated opposite them. Although Michael couldn’t understand Tagalog, he could guess what they were talking about.

“She loves our raincoats,” Erica whispered. “We were just talking about them.”

“Yeahh, I guessed as much,” Michael chuckled. “Did you tell her what we are wearing under our raincoats?”

“Haha… No!” Erica giggled. “Of course not.”

“She’d probably approve,” Michael teased her.

“You tell her then,” Erica giggled. “Tell her about my locking plastic pantes that you made me wear.”

“You wanted to wear them,” Michael pointed out. “In fact, you asked me to lock them on you.”

Erica pretended to sigh. “But my darling, you’re the one who introduced me to wearing plastic.”

“Guilty as charged,” Michael grinned. “But, my darling, you love wearing plastic rainwear more than I do.”

“Who says I do?” Erica laughed again.

“I don’t need to think, I know.”

“You know me too well, eh?” Erica was all sunshine and laughter in direct contrast to the weather outside. “Oo, you know I really love wearing plastic na.” She squeezed his hand hard. “Thank you for introduce me to wearing plastic and everything, talaga.”

“You’re welcome, my darling,” Michael replied. He flinched as a sudden blast of wind funneled rain through the open rear door. Thank God Erica had insisted upon wearing their rainpants. They were soaked with water. The wind was lashing the trees into a frenzy as great sheets of rain continued to saturate the shivering Philippines.

“Maybe rain all day,” Erica commented.

“You hope,” Michael said. “If it stops raining, we’ll be in trouble.”

Confidently, “It won’t. This is Philippines, Michael.”

“Yeah… I know,” Michael agreed. It was one of the reasons he loved visiting the Philippines. It never rained like this back home. It was only very rarely they enjoyed this kind of non-stop soaking rain in his home city of Melbourne. In fact, Melbourne is better known for its changeable ‘four-seasons-in-one-day’ weather than the actual amount (of mostly showery) rain it does receive.

Normally the drive into Gensan takes half an hour in good weather. Today, it required twice that because the weather was so bad that everyone had to slow down even further than usual. The road was already half flooded in one section and everyone were forced to slow to a crawl while they navigated the fast-running water. Eventually they stopped in front of the Gaisano Mall, where they exited the jeepney. Located almost opposite Saint Paul Novitiate Park, Gaisano Gensan, along with neighbouring SM, is the retail heart of the city. The heavy rain had barely let up. Everything was uniformly grey, except for the bright headlights of passing traffic. The trees were silent sentinels bowing under the weight of water falling on their leaves.

While almost everybody ran for cover, Michael and Erica enjoyed the great luxury of leisurely strolling through the carpark as if the torrential rain was little more than a passing rain shower.

“What do you want to do first?” Michael asked Erica after passing through the usual, perfunctory security check. The harried guards didn’t even comment on their dripping rainwear or wet, muddy rainboots. The normally clean tiled floor was muddy and wet, and they’d long ago given up trying to stop anyone from entering the mall. Everyone’s clothes and shoes were wet.

Erica thought for a moment. “I don’t mind. Just stroll around. You want to look at bookshop?” She knew how much he loved reading. His passion for books possibly exceeded his love of plastic raincoats.

Michael nodded. “Yup. Of course.”

“Then we have lunch.” Erica said. “Go grocery shopping after lunch, then go home.”

“Maybe we could go for a rainy day walk in the park, then pick up our shopping,” Michael suggested. He knew they could store their groceries there before returning.

“Great idea!” Erica beamed. “I love to walk in rain.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

Although it was not the first time he’d worn his rainwear inside a large mall, it was the first time he’d shared this particular pleasure with such an attractive, willing partner. Erica’s shiny yellow mac swished and rustled with every step she took. It was, he thought, the sexiest sight he’d ever seen. The sound that her rainwear made was much nicer than the awful Muzak someone was playing. As if guessing his thoughts, Erica stopped and twirled around with an intoxicating crackle of plastic. Her gleaming rainwear shone brightly under the harsh glare of the ceiling lights. The lighting actually helped emphasize the feminine curves of her body. Her tightly buckled belt tucked the vinyl in around Erica’s slim waist, and it highlighted the swell of her breasts beautifully.

Only Erica’s pretty face was visible beneath the expanse of shiny, rippling vinyl covering her body. The securely tied hood was drawn tight across Erica’s head, covering her cheeks and ears. Her lips creased with a big smile as she noticed the direction of his gaze.

“What are you looking at?” she giggled.

Michael grinned. “Just enjoying the… scenery.”

Erica laughed. “Of course. Am I pretty?”

“You’re very beautiful, my darling.” Michael smiled and squeezed her hand.

“Salamat, my love.” Erica smiled radiantly. “I’m so happy.”

“What makes you happy?”

Erica smiled again. “Wearing my plastic pants and raincoat. But… talaga, being with you most of all, my mahal.”

Michael felt his heart contract painfully as he looked into Erica’s earnest face. The love in her eyes was so radiant that he could hardly speak as he held her close for a quick hug. “Same here, my darling,” he eventually replied. “I love you.”

“I love you more,” she whispered.

Despite the bad weather, Michael noticed that nobody else was dressed remotely like them. Although a few people were wearing waterproof coats, the majority of shoppers were wearing little more than shirts and shorts. A few women were even wearing light dresses. Aware that some people were staring rudely, Michael felt his face burn with embarrassment.

“If people not like our raincoat, is their problem,” Erica commented. “Wearing plastic raincoat makes us happy; that’s the important, diba?”

“Yes…” Michael nodded. “You’re right.”

“We are a real plastic couple now.” Erica giggled again. “Wear same shiny yellow raincoat together.”

“Oh, absolutely…” Michael agreed. He knew that wearing similar clothes or colours was a real ‘thing’ in the Philippines. “I don’t think we’ll see anyone else wearing anything like us.”

“I hope not.” Erica laughed again. “I want us only couple wear raincoat ever.”

“Wow… really?”

“Oo, of course!” Erica exclaimed.

“I love the way you think,” Michael murmured.

“Indeed,” Erica giggled. “I never want to take plastic raincoat off na.”

“Be careful what you wish for.” Michael glanced around. “It’s not so much fun when the sun’s roasting us alive.”

“Not gonna happen today.” Erica grinned widely. “I told you, rain all day, Michael.”

“You hope,” Michael replied. “Anyway, what say we go check out that bookshop, then eat? I’m starting to get hungry.”

“Me too,” Erica agreed. “Where do you want to eat?”

“I don’t mind,” Michael replied while they strolled down the wide, airy concourse. As usual soft music was playing, but the crackle and rustle of their rainwear was louder by far. “Let’s try that new seafood restaurant. I’ve got a craving for sweet and sour lapu lapu.”

Erica laughed. “Your favourite. It’s so masarap, isn’t it?”

“Oh yes,” Michael smiled. “You know how much I love it.”

“What you love more? Lapu lapu or plastic raincoat?” Erica teased.

“Mmmm… both.” Michael thought for a moment. “I’ve never worn a raincoat to a restaurant either.”

“Same here,” Erica replied. “Look, there’s the bookshop. Let’s go in.”

Not for the first time, Michael experienced the strangest sense of surreality while he browsed through their surprisingly good selection of new releases. Better run than most, this particular branch of the Philippines’s ubiquitous National Bookstore prided itself on stocking a wide range of books and stationery. Open to the outside as well as the interior of the mall, National Gensan was surprisingly spacious. Heavy rain was splattering the large plate glass windows, so no one passed comment on their glistening rainwear, other than a few curious glances.

In this thoroughly enjoyable manner, Michael and Erica whiled away the next half an hour or so browsing through everything. It was pleasantly cool inside so they were no longer sweating inside their plastic cocoons. Their eyes met with empathetic mutual understanding while they perused the latest bestsellers. “I’m enjoying so much,” Erica softly said before squeezing his hand.

“Same here,” Michael smiled.

“Are you happy we wear plastic pants and raincoat today?” she asked.

“Oh yes…” Michael replied. “Very.”

“Plastic feels so good,” Erica dreamily said.

“Tell me about it,” Michael chuckled. “You’re a real plastic pig na.”

“Who introduce me to wearing plastic pantes and raincoat?” Erica unhesitatingly returned serve.

“Yeah, yeah…” Michael smiled. “You got me there.”

Erica giggled again. “Darling, I like wear plastic raincoat more than you do.” She grinned widely.

“Oh…” Michael was so surprised that he didn’t know what to say. He disbelievingly gazed into Erica’s lovely, earnest face. She was a soulmate in the truest sense of the word.

It was all Erica could do to stifle the giggles forming in her throat. “You know I really, really love wearing plastic pantes and raincoat na,” she quietly said. “I’m not joking, Mike. I’m serious.”

“I know, my darling.” Michael glanced around quickly before kissing Erica full on her lips. “You and me both.”

“Not now,” Erica giggled. “Later. That’s a promise.”

“I can hardly wait.” Michael smiled before asking, “Is there anything you want to buy? I’m hungry na.”

“Yeah,” Erica replied. “Can I have some pocketbooks and pencils?” More shyly, “I’d like to buy these too.”

“Padlocks?” Surprised Michael examined the small locks that his girlfriend was holding. “What are these for?”

“Security,” Erica said.

Michael nodded. Security was a big issue in a poor country such as the Philippines. Everyone locked up their houses tighter than a drum here. “No worries. I’m going to buy a few books too.”

Fortunately, the bookshop was quiet. The usual morning shoppers stayed at home because of the bad weather, so they were able to go through the checkout without being forced to queue for service. “I love your raincoats,” the pretty checkout chick said after ringing up their purchases. “They’re so shiny!”

“Salamat,” Erica smiled.

“I wish I can wear raincoat like yours,” Jonalyn (for that was her name), sighed. “It was already very wet this morning. My uniform really get soaked so much. I have already cheap raincoat, but I left it at home. I never expect rain like this.” Sighing, she showed them the damp patches on her blouse.

“We sure needed our raincoats this morning,” Michael agreed.

“Where can I buy?” Jonalyn asked. “I want shiny yellow like yours. Is so smooth.” She wonderingly ran one slim hand down the sleeve of Erica’s raincoat. “Oh, I like so much.”

“I love wearing it,” Erica smiled.

Jonalyn giggled loudly. “I know.” She studied the tightly tied hood framing Erica’s face. “I like raincoat hood. Keep hair dry.”

“Indeed.” Erica smiled. “It’s very practical.”

“Here’s your books, and thank you for shopping with us today. Show receipt to guard on way out. They are strict here.”

Michael grinned. Jonalyn was as nice as she was funny. “Will do. By the way, to answer your question, I found these on eBay.”

Jonalyn’s face fell. “Not can buy in Philippines?”

Erica shook her head. “Nope. But try the public market or hardware store. Lots of raincoats there.”

“Ok.” Jonalyn nodded again. “But I want shiny yellow, talaga.”

“It’s a real raincoat colour,” Michael observed.

“I know,” Jonalyn replied. “I used to wear yellow plastic raincoat to school. I miss wearing it.”

Erica nodded understandingly. “I understand.” Conspiratorially, “I wear my raincoat every day.”

“Really?” Jonalyn incredulously exclaimed. “Even if not rainy? You wear?”

“Oo.” Erica smiled warmly. “I like to wear so much. Look nice, feel so nice. I like way plastic feels to skin.”

“Wowwwwww…” Jonalyn breathed. “You’re crazy. But…” She giggled. “I think could be fun.”

“Buy a raincoat and come join us,” Michael chuckled.

Jonalyn laughed. “Ok, I will, if pag may time.”

“Don’t think about it, just do it,” Erica advised while he picked up their books.

“Ok, I will,” Jonalyn smiled. “See you later.”

“Jonalyn was so nice,” Erica reflectively said, while they strolled down the wide concourse. “I enjoy talking her.”

Michael smiled. “Same here. I was surprised she liked our raincoats so much.”

“Why not?” Erica giggled. “They’re so yellow and shiny.”

“Yeah. You could say that.” Michael looked at his raincoated partner. Her gleaming yellow raincoat and the bottom of her rainpants shone like a newly waxed car.

Erica noticed his gaze and grinned. “Do I look sexy?”

“Of course!” Michael squeezed her hand hard. “You are the sexiest girl alive.”

“Salamat, my darling.” Erica’s smile was brighter than her glowing rainwear. “I’m so happy I met you.”

“The feeling is mutual, my darling.”

“Look, there’s the restaurant,” Erica said. “Shall we?”

The pretty young thing standing outside the entrance stared with disbelief as Michael and Erica approached the entrance before smiling insincerely. “What for you wear raincoat?” she rudely said. “Not necessary. Why you leave hood up?”

Erica just smiled. “I like way it feels.”

“Sure.” The girl nodded uncertainly, clearly mystified why they would want to wear their shiny yellow raincoats inside the mall. After all, it was highly unlikely they would get wet inside. “Table for two?” she asked as they followed her inside.

“Yes please,” Michael replied.

After being seated in a cosy booth nearest the rain-speckled window, the promo girl shot them a look of pure contempt which clearly said, “I think you’re both crazy”, before returning to her position outside the front entrance. Before they had time to say anything, one of the waitresses bustled up to them with a jug of water and a pair of menus. “Wowww, I think already you are dressed for a super typhoon,” she giggled upon spotting their raincoats.

Erica grinned widely. “It’s very wet outside today.”

“I know,” the waitress sighed. “Oh my God, the rain was very gracious heavy. The road was flooded, so traffic very, very bad. I was late for work but my boss understood.”

“Hope you didn’t get too wet,” Michael said.

Their waitress laughed. “I wear plastic raincoat. But nothing like yours.” She glanced downwards. “You wear rain trousers also?”

“Yeah…” Erica replied. “They’re very waterproof.”

“I must get some,” she mused. “Anyway, my name’s Richmell Cojuangco and obviously, I am your waitress today. Talk about the obvious, huh? Duhhhh.”

Michael laughed. “Nice to meet you. Any recommendations?”

Richmell thought for a moment. “The sweet and sour lapu lapu is very good today.” Confidentially as if imparting a State secret, she said, “Straight off the boat this morning.”

“Wowww that sounds good,” Michael breathed. “It’s my favourite. Ok, I’ll take one please.”

“One kilo or two kilo?”

“The big one please.”

“Very good.” Richell nodded approval. “Anything else?”

“I’ll have the spring rolls and baked scallops as well,” Michael slowly replied. “With rice and a cold Coke please. Erica, what are you having?” he asked.

“I’ll have the same,” she smiled. “I would also like your tempura calamari as well, salamat.”

“Hungry so much?” Richmell giggled. She gazed downwards before repeating their order back to them.

“Awesome,” Michael said.

“She’s so nice,” Erica commented after Richmell left them. “Not like the other girl.”

“Yeah.” Michael didn’t know what to say. She’d successfully made him feel bad.

Crossly, “She’s so maarte and suplada.” Erica shook her head disgustedly. “Talaga, so very judgemental.”

Michael nodded. “I could tell. She made me feel bad.”

Erica leant forwards and took his hands in hers. Gently, “Just ignore people like her. They don’t understand.”

“That’s true.” Michael admitted.

“They’re not open minded,” Erica giggled.

“Oh, I could tell.”

“If only she could see my plastic pantes.” Erica smirked. “The ones you locked on me, so I can’t take them off. Should I show her?”

“I don’t think so,” Michael chuckled.

“Do you think she would have us certified and locked up in the looney bin?” Erica laughed loudly.

“Probably… yes.”

“Excuse?” a voice said. “I think already you are enjoying?”

Erica giggled. “Yeah. You could say that.”

Richmell smiled. “Your spring rolls are ready.”

“They look great!” Michael sighed as he inhaled the aroma.

“Our chef used to work in Vietnam, so he copied how they do them,” Richmell commented. “He knows how to cook them, so really nice and crispy. You wrap in lettuce leaf, then dip in sauce.”

“Oh my God…” Erica breathed after taking a small bite. “They are super sarap.”

“They are, aren’t they?” Richmell chuckled. “I super love them.”

“So do I,” Michael agreed, after taking a bite. “They just melt in my mouth.”

Richmell beamed. “Salamat. I mean, thank you.” She glanced around quickly. “Please excuse. Someone else wants to order. I’ll be right back.”

“Cheers,” Erica smiled as she lifted her glass of cold Coke in the air.

“Cheers,” Michael replied, and they drank before getting stuck into their spring rolls. It was, Michael thought, possibly the most unique meal he’d ever enjoyed with anybody. After all, it was not every day he ate with someone wearing the shiniest, yellowest raincoat he’d ever seen. Erica’s rainwear gleamed softly beneath the effulgent glow of the lights set in the ceiling.

“What you thinking about?” Erica smiled.

Michael returned her smile. “I was thinking how strange I feel wearing our raincoats inside a nice restaurant like this place.”

Erica giggled. “Yeah. Me too. But… are you enjoying, my mahal?”

“Oh yes… very much.”

“Same here,” Erica replied with no small amount of feeling. She closed her eyes before hugging herself and shuddering with intense pleasure. “Oh my God… plastic feels so good.”

Michael grinned. “you’ve only told me that half a million times already.”

“I know.” Erica giggled again. “You know how much I love wearing plastic pants and raincoat na.”

“Half a million and one na.”

Erica giggled before playfully giving him the finger.

“I understand.” Michael nodded sympathetically. “Look, Richmell is coming back with our food now.”

“Did you enjoy your spring rolls?” Richmell smiled as she set the rest of their food down on the table.

“Oh, they were excellent,” Michael replied. “Seriously, they were the best I’ve ever had.”

“Wowww!” Richmell beamed with pleasure. “I’ll tell the chef.”

“We will definitely come back,” Michael said.

“Awesome,” Richmell replied. “Don’t forget to wear your raincoats,” she teasingly said.

Erica laughed. “Of course we will.”

Slyly, “You’re not wearing anything under your raincoats, are you?”

Completely taken aback by Richmell’s question, Erica swallowed nervously before flushing hotly. “Uh…. secret.”

Richmell giggled loudly while she arranged our dishes. “Is Ok, I don’t mind.” She sighed softly. “I wish I have boyfriend so we can do crazy things together.”

“Sana all,” Erica replied. It will happen one day.”

“I hope,” Richmell sighed.

“Let us know when you meet someone.” Erica smiled warmly. “Then we’ll go out for lunch in our plastic raincoats.” She lowered her voice to a sultry purr. “With nothing underneath.”

“Oh my…!” Richmell exclaimed. “I would love to!”

“But really, you don’t have to have a boyfriend to join us,” Erica pointed out. “Next time we go out, just come along with us, if you like.”

“Really?” Richmell beamed with delight. “Are you sure?”

“Of course,” Erica grinned. “But you have to wear your raincoat, rain or shine.”

“Oh…!” Richmell’s eyes widened. “Ok… I’m in. Anyway, you eat, ha? Fish get cold soon. I’ll give you my cell number before you go.”

“I don’t know how you do it,” Michael commented while he sliced the steaming fish in half before placing Erica’s share on her plate.

“Do what?”

“I can’t believe how open you are about everything,” Michael replied. “You make friends so easily. That girl in the bookshop, what was her name again? And now Richmell.”

Erica shrugged eloquently. “I dunno. You know I’m a friendly girl.” She thought for a moment. “I love wearing plastic pants and raincoat na. I’m very open about it, I’m not shy. Everyone see my, um… confidence.”

“Yeah, I get it,” Michael agreed.

“My darling Mike…” Erica reached across the table and squeezed his hands before letting go. “I observe already you’re a little shy about wearing raincoat in public. Remember I had to talk you into going out this morning?”

“Talk me into it?” Michael expostulated. “You all but forced me to at gunpoint.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Erica giggled. “It was for your own good.”

Michael sighed softly. “Oo… I’m a little shy. My mother did not approve of my plastic fetish and it affected my confidence for years.”

“I remember. You told me already,” Erica replied in a low voice. “Darling, I know I told you already, but really, don’t worry about what other people think. I don’t care if they don’t like shiny plastic raincoat. Is their problem, not ours. My love, the important is we have each other.”

“That’s true,” Michael slowly replied, marvelling how on earth it was possible to meet someone like Erica. She’d never seen rainwear other than a purely utilitarian accessory until meeting him. Michael couldn’t help smiling. He’d created a monster. Erica was, if anything, keener on wearing plastic rainwear than he was. She was so out there that it wasn’t funny. ‘Not that I’m complaining,’ he thought. Her attitude was light years away from some of his previous paramours who’d flatly refused to wear rainwear of any kind for him. “I’m so glad I met you, my darling.”

“My life was so empty until I met you,” Erica softly replied. “I never dreamed it was possible to be this happy until now.”

“Thank you…” Michael breathed. “You are such a special rainwear angel.”

“I love it when you say that,” Erica giggled. “I want to be your rainwear angel in plastic pants and rainwear forever.”

“I can’t think of anything I would like more,” Michael dreamily sighed. He glanced downwards. Had he managed to eat that much already? Oh my God. That fish was absolutely delicious though.

“Michael… I hope already you won’t think I’m crazy,” Erica slowly said. “You know what I want?”

“What?” Michael smiled. “You want seconds?”

“Hey!” Erica giggled. “I’m not matakaw unlike some people I know.”

Michael laughed. “I know, my mahal. Anyway tell me what you want.”

“Mhmmm…” Erica bit her lip.

Her face was unusually serious and Michael wondered what she was going to say.

“I want we will wear nothing but plastic all day, every day for the rest of our lives. I really want that. Plastic pantes, plastic playsuit, raincoat – plastic everything. I really love wearing so much. Like I said before, it’s our love language, our style. Can we, my mahal? Can we?”

“Wow…” Michael breathed. He felt his dick quiver with excitement at the prospect of wearing their raincoats together every day. “That’s pretty heavy. Are you sure you want this? You want to wear our raincoats every day? Not every day is going to be rainy and wet like today, you know.”

Erica gazed deeply into his eyes. “Oo… I’m sure. Every day,” she eventually replied.

“Are you really sure you want this?” Michael curiously asked. “It’s one thing wearing our raincoats when it’s wet – that’s what raincoats are for, the rain… right? But… what about when it’s hot and sunny with absolutely no chance of rain? Do you still want to wear our plastic raincoats then?” Remorselessly, “You know everyone will stare. I guess you’ve already noticed that. Not everyone approves of our choice of apparel.” He glanced sideways. “Like that awful girl outside.”

“I don’t care what those stupid people think!” Erica spat. “It’s their problem, not ours!”

Michael grinned. “Yeah, I know. Tell me what you really think.”

“Sorry…” she giggled. “Anyway… um.” Erica thought for a moment before smiling. “Yes… my darling Michael. I do want. I really want this.” She gripped both of his hands in hers before continuing. Her voice was unusually firm while she continued speaking in a quiet, clear voice. “My darling… before I met you, I think raincoat is only for the rain. At first, I find hard to understand why you like wearing raincoat so much. Is very strange to me.” She bit her lip, unsure how to continue. “But… talaga, I love wearing plastic panties, plastic raincoat so much na. It makes me feel good, you know? It’s part of me na, Mike. So… to answer your question, my mahal… I want to wear plastic pantes, plastic playsuit and plastic raincoat every day.” A sudden, sunny smile creased her face. “Even if it’s hot and sunny.”

Michael had no idea what to say. It was the first time he’d dated someone who actually enjoyed wearing plastic rainwear than he did. All his life he’d wanted to meet someone like Erica. His chest was so tight that it actually hurt while he incredulously studied the pretty girl seated opposite him. Her attitude towards plastic wear was totally different to his precious paramours who’d regarded anything the least bit “kinky” with the suspicion of a mongoose encountering a snake. Erica was the first person who’d actually pushed him into wearing his rainwear. He smiled inwardly. Michael couldn’t believe that Erica wanted to wear her plastic pants and raincoats every single day. She even asked to be locked into her plastic pants every morning.

Could he handle this though? Erica would expect him to follow her lead. He would have to wear his plastic rainwear just about everywhere they went. Michael wasn’t one hundred percent sure whether he wanted to do this or not. He studied his unusually anxious girlfriend while he thought. Erica was so beautiful in her glistening rainwear. It was well worth the embarrassment being able to share his passion with someone like Erica. He glanced downwards. Erica was squeezing his hands so tightly that her fingernails were leaving deep indentations in his skin.

“My darling Rain Angel, I cannot think of anything I would like more,” he eventually said. “I would love to spend the rest of my life in rainwear with you, but…”

“But?”

The anxiety in Erica's voice was so palpable that he badly wanted to laugh.

“You know I’m sometimes shy about wearing my rainwear in public so…” Michael paused before sipping on his Coke. “So maybe you could padlock me into my rainwear so I cannot take it off, no matter how hot or sunny it is.”

“Oh…!” Erica exclaimed before laughing loudly. “You really fool me for a moment. I thought so much you are serious.”

Delighted that he’d put one over on her, Michael couldn’t help grinning.

“Darling…” Erica enthused. “I love the way you think. That’s a great idea!”

Her grin was positively feral and Michael squirmed uncomfortably.

Erica scooted around the table and sat alongside him. “Starting today, I lock you in your rainwear all day, every day.”

“Huh?”

Erica cooly gazed deep into his eyes. “Yes, today. Right now, in fact. Why? You have problem with that?”

“Er… no.” Michael awkwardly replied. His head was spinning now. He hadn’t expected their conversation to take this sudden turn. His traitorous dick was betraying him as usual. It was enjoying this conversation. He shifted position uncomfortably as his erection strained against its plastic prison. “I… I just wasn’t expecting it that soon.”

“All the more reason to ensure that you comply.” Erica was all smiles and sunshine. Her hands flew with the rapidity of hummingbirds. Michael could only stare with utter disbelief as supple fingers gripped the belt before pushing a padlock through the hole nearest the sturdy buckle and attaching it to the frame. A sudden, shockingly loud ‘click!’ told him that she’d just locked him inside his shiny yellow raincoat.

“There.” Erica grinned like the Cheshire Cat. “From now on, you will wear plastic raincoat, plastic everything… whether you like it or not.”

“I see…” Michael was in a quandary. He did not know whether he should laugh or cry. He gazed into his girlfriend’s determined face. Was she serious about this?

“Yes… Michael, I’m serious,” Erica suddenly said. Coldly, “I’m not joking.”

“But what about you?” he impulsively asked. “We can’t have one rule for me and another for you.”

Erica smirked. “I’m a good girl, unlike some guys I know. I wear my safety yellow raincoat and rainpants and rainboots every day without being told to.”

“Even so,” Michael said. “We can’t be a true rainwear couple unless you’re locked inside your rainwear as well.”

“Ok, ok…” Erica dissolved into a giggly puddle. “You win.”

“So tell me what you want then,” Michael demanded.

Erica giggled. “Yes, of course, I want. I want you to lock my rainwear every day.” She handed him the other lock. “Do it. Do it now! Please padlock my raincoat so I can’t take it off.”

“I hear and obey,” Michael replied with mock gravity while he snapped the lock shut. “There, it’s not coming off now.”

“Our raincoats are definitely not coming off now,” Erica said with a finality which made his skin prickle.

“What do you mean?”

Erica smirked. “I left the keys at home. There’s no way we can unlock these…” Erica motioned in the direction of the padlock decorating her belt. “… until then.”

“Oh my God…” Michael groaned. “You didn’t, did you?”

Delighted that she’d really put one over on her reluctant, rainwear-shy boyfriend, Erica glowed with pleasure. “You’d better believe it. Yes… I did.”

“Well done,” Michael sighed. “I can’t believe you did this.”

“But… I thought you only just bought these padlocks,” Michael asked. “I saw them.”

“And so I did,” Erica happily confirmed. “New ones. I had another pair at home.”

“Oh no…” Michael sighed. She’d really made a fool out of him.

Delighted with her victory, Erica laughed again. “He who laughs last, laughs longest,” she observed.

“Yeah, yeah… Well played.”

“Salamat, my darling.” Erica beamed. “God, I’m wet now,” she commented after returning to her seat. “This is making me so horny.”

“How do you think I feel?” Michael replied. He was so hard that it actually hurt – but he wasn’t going to admit as much to her. “But I hope we won’t regret this though.”

“Spoilsport. Ok, let’s see.” Erica attacked her fish vigorously. She glanced outside the window. “It’s still raining,” she commented. “Let’s go walk in park, then grocery shopping before go home.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Michael smiled. “I’m very full now.”

“That fish was so yum,” Erica sighed.

“The baked scallops were awesome,” Michael sighed before vainly trying to stifle a burp.

Erica giggled. “We’ve got to eat here again.”

Before Michael had a chance to reply, Richmell bustled up to the table. “I can tell you really hated everything,” she observed in an expressionless voice.

“The food was awful. Worst I’ve ever had,” Michael deadpanned while he studied the serried rank of empty plates in front of them.

Richmell laughed. “Shall I pass that onto the chef?”

“Yes, please do,” Erica smiled. “I apologise for my boyfriend. He does not appreciate good food.”

“Hey!” Michael protested.

“Sorry,” Erica said in a voice which said she was anything but apologetic. “But really, your food was super sarap.”

Pleased that they’d enjoyed themselves so much, Richmell smiled. “I’m happy so much you enjoy.” She began stacking the empty plates on top of each other. “Would you like to order a dessert?”

“I’d love to,” Michael sighed. “But I’m so full I cannot eat any more.”

“What you do now?” Richmell asked.

“We’ll go outside for a rainy day walk in the park,” Michael replied, “before we do our grocery shopping and going home.”

“Want to join us?” Erica asked.

“Ohhhh,” Richmell breathed. “Sana all. How I wish, but… I have to work.”

“I understand. Next time,” Erica sympathetically replied. “When is next day off? You come join us. By the way, what’s your cell number?”

“Oh talaga?” Richmell beamed with delight. “I have day off on Monday. Is OK?” She took her pen out and carefully wrote her phone number out on a small pad she extracted from her apron. “Sorry I have no phone. They confiscate while I’m on duty.”

Erica nodded sympathetically. She knew how strict the majority of employers in the Philippines were. Long hours, low pay, regular searches (particularly in department stores), docking pay for tardiness and so on. “Sure,” she replied. “Here’s my number.”

“What if weather is sunny on Monday?” Richmell asked.

“We wear plastic raincoat,” Erica giggled. “Rain or shine.”

“Oooohhh…!” Richmell giggled. “Ok, I wear.”

“Be aware that Erica is strict,” Michael chuckled. “You’ll be sweating in plastic all day long.”

“I don’t mind,” Richmell smiled. “I like wear raincoat.”

Erica glanced around before motioning Richmell closer. “You know, I like wear plastic so much. Plastic pants, plastic everything. See?”

“Wowwww…” Richmell breathed. “I really like so much.” A sudden giggle. “Oh my God… is that a padlock? You put lock on raincoat?” She peered closer. “And you lock already your plastic pants rin? Oh, my God. Now I know why you not take raincoat off.”

“Exactly.”

“She left the keys at home,” Michael sighed. “Now we’re stuck in our raincoats until we get home.”

“I’m excited now,” Richmell giggled. “So I have to wear plastic pants too? Plastic everything?” she asked.

“Yes,” Erica nodded for extra emphasis.

“This is so kulit, I mean… naughty.” Richmell was quivering with excitement. “But talaga, I cannot wait. I think already is so much fun.”

“Just pray it rains,” Michael said.

“Michael thinks his raincoat is for the rain only,” Erica smirked. “He doesn’t want to wear it unless it’s raining.”

“Shame on you,” Richmell said. “Make it sure he wears his plastic pantes and raincoat every day.”

“Looks like you’re outvoted.” Erica smiled so widely that Michael thought her face must split in half at any moment. “I like the way you think, Richmell. I think already you and I will get on well.”

Grinning, “Salamat.”

“Indeed!” Erica smiled again. “Don’t worry, I will make sure he wears his raincoat.”

“Every day,” Richmell said firmly.

Michael swallowed uncomfortably. The girls had him over a barrel. He couldn’t believe this was happening.

“Count on it,” Erica said.

“Oh, by the way...” Richmell hesitantly said. “Can my best friend come too?”

“This is turning out to be a real raincoat party,” Michael disbelievingly commented.

Clearly surprised, Erica hesitated momentarily before replying. “Uh… sure. But can I ask why?”

“We go school together years ago,” Richmell explained. “She was the only one who wear her plastic raincoat almost every day. Shiny yellow like you. She wear raincoat even if it only little cloudy. Everyone tease her, but she ignore them.” Richmell paused before thinking. “She walk next to me one day and I ask her why she wear her raincoat, because it’s sunny. She say, ‘I like wear plastic raincoat because it look, feel so nice. It makes me feel good, feel happy.”

“Woww, that’s amazing,” Michael commented.

“Indeed,” Richmell smiled. “I told her that Nanay says I have to wear my plastic raincoat without fail if its rainy, and you know what she say?”

“What did she say?” Erica and Michael asked in unison.

Richmell giggled. “She say, your mum is right, you should wear it every day.”

“I like the way she thinks,” Michael chuckled.

“So, did you?”

“Nope.” Richmell shook her head. “I was shy to wear my raincoat unless it was raining.”

Erica nodded understandingly. “Is OK.”

“Anyway,” Richmell said, “She works here. After we finish work, we walk to jeepney station together.” A sudden giggle. “Of course we wear our raincoats.”

Erica laughed. “That’s good to hear.” Curiously, where does she work?”

“The bookshop,” Richmell replied.

“Oh…!” Erica exclaimed. “The National Bookstore?”

Richmell nodded. “Yup.”

“We were there earlier,” Erica giggled. “Would her name be Jonalyn, by any chance? She was one of the cashiers.”

This time it was Richmell’s turn to be surprised. “Yes, that’s her. Small world, huh?”

“Very,” Erica agreed. “She absolutely loved our raincoats.”

“I’m not surprised,” Richmell said. “Ok, I’ll talk to her about it after work and get back to you.”

“Awesome,” Michael said. “I’m looking forwards to it already.”

“I can’t wait,” Richmell breathed. “Do we really have to wear plastic pants, plastic everything? Are you serious?”

“What do you think?” Erica giggled. “The answer is yes, yes and yes. Mark my words, I am strict. You’ll wear plastic pants, plastic playsuit, plastic raincoat, plastic rainpants whether you like it or not. And you will wear locking plastic pantes, so they not come off.” She paused before continuing. “You will wear plastic everything… rain or… shine.” Smiling sweetly, “Is that what you want?”

The glow in Richmell’s eyes told Michael everything he needed to know. Softly, “Yes… I want.”

“Great,” Erica giggled. “It’s a date then.”

“I’ll see you then.” Richmell smiled. “I better go work na or they wonder why I chat you so long.” In a louder voice, “Salamat for eat here. We are very happy you enjoyed our food and service. I will tell chef how much you loved our spring rolls and lapu-lapu. How would you like to pay? Cash or card, po?”

Michael grinned. Richmell was a consummate professional. Someone (her boss?) was standing near the kitchen door, but he casually turned away a moment after she completed her little spiel, and began attending to something behind the bar.

“Card please,” Michael said.

“Wait please. I go get Eftpos machine.” Richmell stacked more empty plates on the small pile in front of her before carrying everything away.

“What a lovely person she is,” Erica said softly.

“She sure is,” Michael said. “I can’t believe this is happening though.”

“Same here,” Erica disbelievingly said.

Before Michael could reply, Richmell returned with their bill and the EFTPOS machine. “Please check the bill po, before you make payment,” she smiled, before indicating where to place his card.

“Sure,” Michael said while he quickly scanned the check. “Looks good. Salamat for the great food and looking after us.”

“Walang anuman,” Richmell giggled. “I’m glad you’re happy.”

“Oh we are.” Erica beamed happily. “Your food was super sarap, talaga.”

“We will definitely come back soon,” Michael assured Richmell.

“You wear raincoat, ha?” Richmell giggled. “I want you to wear.”

“Of course,” Erica giggled.

“Promise?” Richmell asked while she continued clearing the table.

“Promise,” Erica said.

“Greatttt,” Richmell replied. Smiling, “See you soon.”

“Yes, see you soon,” Erica smiled. “I’m really looking forwards to our raincoat outing.”

“I can’t wait!” Richmell giggled. In a louder voice, “Bye now, and salamat for visit us again. I’ll let the kitchen know how happy you were with their cooking.”

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

“I cannot believe this is happening,” Michael commented while they strolled down the wide concourse before exiting the mall. “A plastic party? It’s like something straight out of a teenage wet dream.”

Erica laughed. “Yeah. We are more open-minded than you think. Not everyone is like that awful promo girl outside the resto.”

“Did you see the way she looked at us when we left?” Michael asked. “If looks could kill, and all that.”

Erica giggled. “Yes. But talaga, I don’t care what she think. Wearing plastic raincoat makes me happy. That’s the important.”

“Absolutely.” Michael smiled. “But it’s not all bad news. We’ve also met some lovely people too. Just think, we wouldn’t have met them if we weren’t wearing our raincoats.”

“Oh… yes.” Erica beamed happily. “I can’t wait to go out together next week.”

“It should be lots of fun,” Michael agreed. He flinched as several passing schoolgirls spotted them before erupting into a series of increasingly high-pitched giggles.

“Just ignore them,” Erica advised.

“Did you notice that they’re all soaking wet?” Michael mused. “I find it amazing that some people would rather get wet than… well, look wet.”

“I just think it’s sad,” Erica commented. “Their problem, not ours.”

“Oh my God…” Michael breathed as they walked outside. “Just look at that rain.”

Erica gazed around disbelievingly. The rain hadn’t gone away during the time they’d spent in the mall. It was, if anything, raining harder than ever. The traffic, chaotic at the best of times, had slowed to a near standstill. Water was streaming down the road, giving the impression of a river as it splashed over the gutters and onto the footpath in places. “I told you, it rain all day,” she said in such a smug tone of voice that Michael almost wished it would stop raining, if only to prove her wrong. A group of pedestrians splashed past and Michael could feel their jealous gazes while they leisurely waited for the light to change.

“Ok tell me something new,” Michael chuckled. He was more than happy for Erica to prove him wrong. He glanced anxiously at the low, grey cloud swirling and eddying above them. He exhaled with relief. If Erica thought it would rain all day, then that’s exactly what would happen. He nervously toyed with the padlock securing him inside his raincoat. Despite Erica’s confidence, he simply didn’t feel comfortable about wearing his blindingly shiny yellow rainwear in the hot sun, in front of everyone. He didn’t have the heart to tell her as much though. On the other hand… Michael knew that, deep down, there was nothing more he wanted or needed more than being forced to wear his plastic rainwear whether he liked it or not. Ever since being padlocked inside his raincoat, he’d been pitching a more or less permanent stiffie. That, and simply being with the most amazing raincoated beauty he’d ever met, made any embarrassment more than worthwhile. Erica caught his sideways glance and smiled. He simply could not get over how cute she was in her gleaming, water-dappled rainwear. The great dome of the tightly tied hood perfectly framed her happy face in an oval of shiny yellow.

“Don’t worry, it won’t stop raining.” Erica squeezed his hand tightly. “I’m so glad I met you. I’ve never been so happy all my life. You are my everything, my darling.”

Michael inhaled deeply. His chest was so tight that it actually hurt as he gazed into her beautiful face. Her topaz eyes sparkled with love and laughter as they gazed into his. “You’re the best thing that ever happened to me, my darling rain angel. I love you so much, more than I can say in words.”

“I love you too,” Erica replied in a low, soft voice. Her heart was so full she thought it might explode any moment while they shared a quick, tight hug.

The moaning trees were silent, shivering sentinels as they miserably bowed under the weight of tonnes of water falling on them. Here and there, gravity prevailed and water cascaded downwards after the weight of the rain proved too much for the leaves to bear. Great puddles dotted the wide, gravel path everywhere. Erica happily kicked a puddle and sent water spraying everywhere. Here, the steady, sibilant susurration of the rain was virtually the only sound they could hear. Even the background traffic noise was little more than a murmur. The steady rain deadened everything. Normally the spacious park would have been alive with children running around like dervishes and street-food hawkers loudly advertising their wares, but it was almost deserted, save for a few itinerant sellers huddling beneath makeshift shelters.

“I can’t remember the last time it was this quiet,” Erica observed. “Normally, the park is the most very busy place in town. Everyone comes here for lunch break or just stroll.”

Michael nodded. “I remember you told me that almost everyone here views rain in the same way as lava.”

“Oo, correct,” Erica giggled. Scornfully, “They think they get sick and die if get wet.”

“I think rain is your life support system,” Tony chuckled.

“I love rain, I love wearing raincoat, but talaga, you’re my life support system,” Erica breathed.

“Dearest Erica…” Michael murmured before pulling her close for a deep kiss which transcended time and space itself. When you’re really madly head-over-heels crazy about someone who is wholeheartedly reciprocating the same feelings with as every bit as much passion as you, holding and kissing each other is nothing less than Heaven itself. The incessant rain continued beating a staccato military tattoo on their slick, smooth raincoats while they kissed as if their lives depended upon remaining locked together as long as possible. Despite the torrential downpour, the air remained pleasantly warm. Their plastic pants and rainwear were deliciously sweaty from the heat of their bodies while they held each other.

Erica noticed a wooden bench seat nearby and she hurriedly pulled Michael down on it. Their rainwear rustled and crackled loudly as they arranged themselves on the seat before locking their lips together again. The young couple barely noticed the rain lashing their streaming rainwear while they cuddled and kissed each other as if their lives depended upon remaining glued together for a long as possible.

Happiness is the most intangible emotion of all. It’s impossible to quantify in any meaningful or accurate way whatsoever. Although it was not the first time they’d enjoyed a good pash together, the occasion was so special that the young lovers knew they would never forget it all their lives. Michael gazed into the face of the girl he loved after breaking away for air. His heart was so full that he thought it would explode any moment as Erica planted a loving kiss on his mouth before opening her mouth. “I love you so much, my darling Mike. I love you more than I can say. Thank you for being my boyfriend, thank you for being there for me and thank you for introduce me to plastic rainwear and rubber and everything else.”

“You’re so welcome, my darling rain angel,” Michael softly replied. “I love you too. I love you… more than even life itself. I’m so glad I met you. You’re everything to me.”

“Mmmm…” Erica sighed before wrapping her arms around Michael’s neck so hard that he gasped for breath. “God I’m horny na. I so fucking want you. Make me happy please.” She pushed his hand between the buttons of her raincoat.

“With pleasure,” Michael murmured as he slid his hand downwards. “Oh no…” he groaned.

“Huh?”

“I can’t get inside,” he sighed. “Your locking plastic pants are too tight.”

“Oh my God…” Erica giggled loudly. “I can’t believe this. I guess we’ll have to wait then.”

“Looks like it,” Michael chuckled.

Erica sighed again. “I’m so horny. I can’t believe this. I can’t believe it.”

“What are you complaining about?” Michael teased. “You wanted me to lock you inside your plastic pants.”

“I know, I know,” Erica somewhat waspishly replied. “Don’t remind me.”

Michael couldn’t resist grinning. It was the first time he’d ever seen Erica anything but happy about her plastic prison.

“Yeah, you can laugh!” Erica glanced around. Tetchily, “Better hope it doesn’t stop raining. You won’t be so happy then.”

“I seem to recall your weather forecast was for rain, and more rain,” Michael chuckled.

Erica rolled her eyes and gazed heavenwards. The scudding clouds were as low and dark as ever. She could not see any kind of distant glow, perhaps indicating a break in the weather. “Lucky for you, huh?” she giggled. “Hug me please.”

Michael needed no further invitation. He wrapped his arms around her neck and shoulders (she loved that) before kissing her again.

“Ohhh I like that,” Emily sighed. “You know how much I love it when you caress me like that.”

Michael smiled before kissing her again. Ignoring the raging fire in his crotch was all but impossible. He’d already disgraced himself more than once. His plastic panties were horribly sticky with the remnants of his ejaculation. There was nothing he could do about it though. At least cuddling and kissing each other helped provide some form of distraction… sort of.

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

“What’s the time?” Erica asked after catching her breath. Thoroughly frustrated with their inability to bring each other off, they’d more than made up for it with the longest pash of their lives. There was something so elemental about a good old-fashioned pash, Erica thought. As much as she adored sex, there was nothing like the deeper connection that cuddling and kissing each other provided them. There’s nothing more intimate than kissing – for good reason. Kissing is so much more than simply physical, it’s an exchange of souls. Erica could not remember feeling this close to the man she loved all her life.

“It’s daytime,” Michael replied.

“Hey!” Erica protested. Giggling like a hyena, she shoved him on the shoulder. “Thanks, Captain Obvious.”

“You’re welcome,” Michael chuckled. “It’s almost three o’clock.”

“Oh my God!” Erica exclaimed. “I can’t believe it’s that late.” Sighing, “I wish we could spend all day here. I’m really, really enjoying myself so much, but… it’s getting late and we still have to go shopping.” Worriedly,” The supermarket will be getting busy na.”

Michael nodded. The supermarket experience in the Philippines was totally different to the one he was used to back home. The size of the biggest stores was just mind-blowing, but it was the inefficiency of their operation which really got him. The same products (particularly drinks) were often stocked in several different locations. Not one supermarket ever thought to install self-check-outs (no doubt surmising the probability of theft was just not worth it) so every single store built enormously long rows of staffed check-out counters spanning the width of the store – every one of which employed at least two, often three bored, unsmiling staff: a cashier and one or even two baggers. They were always young, pretty girls. Discrimination is a real, live thing in the Philippines. There were nearly always at least one or two supervisors watching every checkout, which they were assigned to, like hawks. It was clear that these businesses did not trust even their own staff; little wonder really, with the pitiful wages they gave their employees. A kilo pack of bacon could cost more than a day’s wages for most of the staff. The temptation to steal was very, very high.

The inefficiencies didn’t end there. Instead of ringing up multiple purchases of one item, they had to be totted up one at a time. This, coupled with the habit of thousands of households shopping for (mostly small) goods for resale at their tiny mom-and-pop “sari-sari stores”, meant that wait times could easily exceed an hour during particularly busy times of the day. Most credit card transactions also had to be manually approved by over-zealous supervisors instead of seamlessly being electronically debited to their owner’s accounts on the spot. Instead of loading goods into trolleys, they had to be bagged - or packed inside cardboard boxes, for transport on tricycles or jeepneys. Transactions which might at best, require several minutes back home could easily exceed fifteen minutes in the Philippines – or much longer.

“Yeah…” Michael sighed. “I wish we could stay longer, but you are right. They will be busy.”

“I wish we’d gone earlier,” Erica said. “I hate waiting around forever.”

Michael laughed. “Same here. At least we had a good time though.”

“Oh yes…” Erica dreamily breathed. “It was the best ever. But I’m still horny though.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll make up for it later, once we get home.”

“I can’t wait. I want you to tie me up but good and tight, then fuck me hard,” Erica murmured in a low voice. “I want you to bang me in the ass as well.”

“Oh my God… stop it,” Michael moaned. “You’re making me excited again.”

“Oh, poor you,” Erica teased. Caustically, “Now you know how I feel.”

“Yeah, yeah...” Michael smiled before hugging his girlfriend with all his might. “Ok, let get this out of the way, then we’ll go home.”

The heavy, drenching rain barely let up while they strolled the leisurely half a kilometre or so back to the brightly lit mall. It was so dark that even the most casual of Filipino motorists had been forced to turn the headlights on. Although they received a number of disbelieving stares, the vast majority of shoppers in the now noticeably crowded mall paid them little attention. Many people were now sporting all manner of rainwear, albeit nothing like their gleaming shiny yellow outfits. A small group of college students were all wearing translucent plastic macs and they shot warm, understanding grins in their direction. One of them had actually elected to wear a matching pair of plastic rainpants under her long clear plastic rain mac and her smile was particularly warm.

They had to pass the National bookstore on the way to the supermarket, which was located on the basement floor.

“I’m looking forwards to seeing Jonalyn again too,” Michael mused.

“Of course you are.” Erica smirked. “You’re not satisfied with one girl, you want three. Oh, my God.”

“Hey!” Michael protested. “You’re the one who invited her.”

“Did I?” Erica replied sweetly.

“Yes, you did.” Michael smiled. “You were all for it, if I recall correctly.”

“Er… yeah.” Erica eventually admitted.

“Not that I’m complaining,” Michael chuckled.

Erica rolled her eyes theatrically. “I know you so well, Michael,” she sarcastically replied.

“You do?”

“Yes… I do.” Erica smiled broadly. “I’m going to make sure you don’t get any ideas while they’re here.”

“Really?” Michael asked. “Like how.”

“That’s for me to know and for you to find out,” Erica smirked. “But I can reveal that I’m going to lock you inside at least two pairs of plastic pants, and that’s just for starters.”

“Oh…” Michael weakly replied.

“Your dick belongs to me, and I’m going to keep it that way.”

“Yes, ma’am…” Michael cheekily replied. “Don’t worry, you can trust me.”

Erica laughed. “Better safe than sorry.”

“Does that mean I can look, but not touch your new friends?”

“Something like that.” Erica’s smile was wider than the Cheshire Cat. “That reminds me.... I’ve gotta buy more padlocks.”

“You must be really worried that I’ll molest them,” Michael teased.

“That’s what raincoats are for.” Erica laughed again.

“You could say that,” Michael smiled before frowning. “Oh, shit…”

Erica glanced around and rolled her eyes. “Looks like we’ll be here for a while.”

“I really thought it would be quiet,” Michael groaned as he retrieved the last trolley in the bay. The squeal that the broken wheel made was horrific and Erica flinched as several people turned around to see where the noise was coming from.

“So did I.” Erica sighed.

“I think its busy because people are hoping it will stop raining.”

“No chance.” Erica smiled widely. “Thank God we’ve wearing our raincoats.”

“Indeed,” Michael agreed. At least they didn’t stand out as much now. Another couple wearing translucent blue plastic rainsuits passed them and they exchanged understanding smiles.

Although they didn’t need to buy a great deal of food, the shopping still took longer than they expected, because of the inefficiency of the supermarket employees. Fruit and vegetables, for example, had to be weighed, bagged and tagged by staff – all well and good when it was quiet, but they had to wait a long time for their turn. Maneuvering their trolleys around the crush of people was also easier said than done. Eventually the raincoated couple managed to fill their trolleys with everything they needed.

The number of people crammed into the narrow aisles of the large supermarket was also raising the temperature exponentially. It was much warmer inside and they both began to sweat heavily, but there was nothing Michael or Erica could do about it. They had no way of taking their raincoats off, not least because of the padlocks attached to the buckles securing the tight belts in place. Erica also couldn’t undo the tightly tied hood because everyone would see the hood of her jelly jacket underneath.

This was beginning to be far less fun now. Erica could not believe how much sweat all that plastic was capable of generating. It was sloshing around in her rainboots, but she could hardly sit down and pour everything on the supermarket floor. On the other hand, Erica could not remember ever feeling this aroused whilst out and about at the mall. She was so horny that she could just scream. The sticky, sweaty, smooth plastic caressing almost every square inch of her lithe body was an aphrodisiac like no other. Being locked inside her plastic pants and shiny yellow raincoat was only increasing the level of her excitement. It was more than worth the discomfort and embarrassment for the incredible feelings that this excursion was generating within her.

“Are you enjoying yourself?” she whispered in Michael’s ear.

Michael nodded. “Mmmm… yes and no.”

Erica giggled. “I know what you mean. But talaga, I am so horny.”

“Join the club,” he sighed. “I want you so much.”

“You’ll just have to wait,” Erica giggled.

“I know, I know…” Michael glanced around. The giggles and even jeers seemed to be growing louder and he wondered why. “I wish you hadn’t locked our raincoats.”

“Yeah.” Erica smirked. “But don’t you think it’s more exciting when you can’t take raincoat off?”

“I guess so…” Michael squirmed uncomfortably. Sweat was condensing on the inside of his plastic playsuit and rainwear. It wasn’t long before he realized how tickly that sweat could be, as it slowly wended downwards. The soles of his rainboots were already slushy and he grimaced. Michael quickly glanced around as his unease began to grow like a malignant cancer. He could hear more whispers and giggling as they maneuvered past an untidy gaggle of trolleys.

“Is there anything else we need before we go?” Erica asked.

Michael thought for a moment. “Bugger it… I forgot the Tang.”

“You go get it,” Erica irritably said. “We pass it ten minutes ago.”

“I know, I know…” Michael sighed.

“Come on, hurry up.”

It was a long time since he’d felt this horribly exposed while he hurried down the wide central lane splitting the serried ranks of aisles in half. While he was with Erica, his self-consciousness wasn’t an issue. She was the perfect foil for him. Erica’s bright, bubbly personality, natural attractiveness and above all, her confidence, helped deflect attention away from him. Without her bouncing along next to him, Michael was painfully, acutely aware of the incredulous stares, whispers and giggles following every step he took. There was no way he could run or hide. His shiny yellow raincoat with its tightly tied hood and padlocked belt was a beacon screaming, “LOOK AT ME!” in neon capital letters. He could not bear to face his tormentors, instead focusing on the products lining the shelves.

He was beginning to get a very bad feeling about this. When they’d entered the vast supermarket, everyone had been wearing coats or rainwear. Used to an extremely hot and humid climate most of the year, Filipinos feel the cold far more acutely than most. The people crowding inside the busy supermarket were all far more lightly dressed than they’d been earlier today. He was the only one even remotely dressed for a typhoon. Michael stifled a sigh between carefully maintaining an impassive face. Oh my God. This was embarrassing beyond belief. Why, for God’s sake, had he even let Erica talk him into doing this? ‘Because you love this,’ he told himself. ‘You secretly love being humiliated’.

Deep down, he’d known that this might happen.

Yet… there was something about his predicament which was doing it for him like nothing else. The combination of his slick, slippery plastic panties, playsuit and vinyl rainwear all soaking wet on the inside with his sweat, and the embarrassment of his situation was the biggest physical and mental mind fuck ever.

Another couple – a foreigner (American?) with a sinfully pretty sloe-eyed Filipina – stared at him with utter disbelief before studying him with barely concealed contempt and turning away. Michael sighed inwardly before looking for the Tang powder he needed. The sooner they got out of Dodge City, the better. Oh no… Out of stock?

The shelves were horribly empty. He sighed again. They were always out of stock of something or another. Michael remembered one occasion when eggs vanished for two weeks, but one of their neighbours had chooks so they fortunately didn’t have to go without. The crackle and rustle of his rainwear was awfully loud as he bent downwards for a closer look. Michael heard someone giggle, and he stiffened with shock and annoyance as an unseen hand groped his plastic-coated ass. It was just the most unbelievable rudeness, but it was pretty much par for the course. There was no point in even creating a scene about it. The most he would achieve was draw even more unwanted attention to himself. The same hand groped him again, this time growing bolder with his failure to react.

Yes…. Michael exhaled with relief. He could see three large one-kilo packs hiding against the very rear of the shelf. Retrieving them only required a few seconds and he stood up with his prize. He blinked with surprise. Facing him was the most gorgeous, diminutive child-woman he’d ever seen. Although the girl was tiny, she carried herself with a confidence and maturity belying her youthful looks. She grinned boldly as their eyes met, and he couldn’t help smiling despite her earlier rudeness. “Was that you who…” he began.

“Yes po.” The girl smiled cheekily while she unabashedly studied Michael with the curiosity of a scientist studying an entomological specimen. “Did I disturb you?”

Despite his earlier annoyance, Michael could only laugh. She was funny. “Yes…” he replied. “You frightened the life out of me.”

“Sorry.” Her expression suggested that she was anything but.

“You’re welcome.” Michael smiled. Inwardly he was cringing. If Erica saw him chatting with her, she’d tie him up for a month of Sundays… or worse. Her bondage skills would make an eighteenth-century seafarer weep tears of joy with the tightness of her bonds and the precision of her knots.

“I like your raincoat,” the girl said.

“Thanks,” Michael curtly replied, anxious to be rid of her.

“But why you wear?”

“Huh?” Michael replied. “It’s been raining all day.”

She shook her head. “Hindi. Rain stop. It sunny na,” she said.

Oh my God. Michael’s head spun. Was she… serious?”

“You’re kidding me,” he eventually said, as the awful realization that she might not be joking sank into his mind. “It was absolutely pouring not long ago.”

She giggled loudly. “It’s Ok if you not believe me. You go outside, see for yourself.”

Michael nodded, as a cold dread crept around his heart, like a shroud. His worst nightmare was about to become an awful reality.

“Maybe better already if you take raincoat off,” the girl calmly observed. “Not need raincoat na.”
‘I can’t,’ Michael thought. ‘Why the hell did I let her talk me into this?’

She leant downwards with an exclamation of surprise and Michael felt his face glow hotly, as deft fingers toyed with the padlock.

“Wow…” she breathed. “Why you put padlock on?”

“It’s a long story,” Michael sighed. “My girlfriend made me do this. She put this on me earlier today, because I didn’t want to wear my raincoat.”

“Wow…” she giggled. “I can’t believe this.”

“Neither can I.” He sighed again.

“Where is your girlfriend?”

“In another aisle,” Michael replied. “She’s waiting for me.”

“Ok, I want see her,” the girl said.

Michael bit his hip. He didn’t feel comfortable about this. He studied the sinfully pretty little child-woman facing him. Should he do this? He shook his head disbelievingly. This was getting weirder and weirder. Now he had some idea how Alice must have felt upon encountering the strange inhabitants of Wonderland.

Misunderstanding his reaction, she plaintively asked, “Please? I not want cause trouble. I just… I want to meet your girlfriend.”

“Ok…” Michael sighed. He’d been doing a lot of that lately.

“Salamat.” The girl smiled widely “I mean, thanks.”

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

“What... the?” Erica exclaimed as Michael reappeared with the girl in tow.

“Oh my God,” the young woman exclaimed while she incredulously studied the raincoated couple. Giggling, “I think you are dressed for a really super typhoon.”

“You’re not the first one to say that,” Michael dryly observed.

“Who are you, anyway?” Erica asked in a less-than-friendly voice.

“I bumped into her while I was looking for the Tang,” Michael explained. “She wanted to know why I’m wearing my raincoat.”

“I told him it’s not raining na,” the girl giggled.

“What?” Erica exclaimed.

“Oo, rain stop half an hour ago.”

Accusingly, “You told me it would rain all day long!”

“Sorry.” Erica flushed hotly. “Guess I got it wrong.”

“Raincoat not come off, I think.” The girl giggled loudly. “Loko loko.”

Crossly, ”I’m not crazy.”

“Yes, you are.” Giggling, “It’s so funny.”

“For some people, maybe.” Erica studied their ‘companion’ with the air of a student dissecting a decomposing frog. Rudely, “Who are you?”

“Sorry… My name Jane,” she said. “I see your boyfriend wearing shiny yellow raincoat so I ask him why, and he say, you made him wear it.”

Erica smirked. “Yes, he did not want to wear his raincoat, so….” She shrugged eloquently. “I say, you have to wear whether you like it or not.”

“Good.” Jane nodded approvingly.

“Where’s your raincoat?” Michael asked. “Why aren’t you wearing it?”

Cheekily, “Not necessary. It not rainy na.”

“That’s no excuse,” Erica said.

Jane sighed. “I know. I want wear, but…”

“But?”

“I’m shy. I like wear plastic raincoat so much,” Jane admitted. “Plastic make me feel so… good, you know? B… but I’m very shy.”

Erica nodded sympathetically. “Ok, go on?”

“My family, they laugh at me because I enjoy to wear plastic raincoat. They say not necessary. Use umbrella. Blah blah blah, like that, you know?” Jane bit her lips. “I want to wear to school but I not confident.”

“I understand,” Michael said. “I was the same years ago. My family did not understand my thing for plastic. My sister was so mean to me about it.”

Jane nodded sadly. “Same here. I think already much better I’m gay. Then everyone say how brave you are for coming out.”

“I know is easy to say,” Erica gently replied, “but… ignore the haters, ok? Just be yourself and… do what makes you happy.”

“Oo… tama,” Jane agreed, “but I’m scared to go out by myself in raincoat.” Enviously, “You’re lucky because you have each other.”

Erica smiled. “I think raincoat is only for the rain until I met Michael. I not understand why he like wear plastic so much until he give me plastic raincoat. I put on, wear all day. Feels so nice.” She sighed with pleasure. “So yummy.”

“She likes wearing her plastic rainwear more than I do,” Michael chuckled.

Timidly, “I wear in my room when everyone gone bed.” Jane bit her lip before continuing. “Is wearing plastic pants normal?”

“Oh…!” Erica exclaimed. “You actually wear plastic pants too?”

Jane shamefacedly nodded. “Yes…” she replied in a tiny voice. “Sometimes already I feel so ashamed.”

“Do you wear all the time?” Erica curiously asked.

“Yeah.” Jane’s face was bright with embarrassment. “I love wear plastic so much.”

“Join the club,” Erica gently replied. “It’s very normal to enjoy wearing plastic.”

“Really?” Jane incredulously said. “I think already I am the only one in the world who love wear plastic pants and raincoat.”

“Is Ok,” Erica said. “We both love wearing plastic pantes too.” She glanced around quickly before showing Jane what she was wearing under her raincoat. “Michael says I have to wear them every day.”

“I cannot believe this,” Jane weakly replied.

“Neither can I,” Erica smirked. “Michael is mean.”

“I think already you wear plastic pants coz you love it,” Jane giggled. “Right?”

Michael shook his head disbelievingly while the girls chatted about his favourite fetish as casually as one might discuss vegetable prices. His head was spinning with disbelief while he studied the two pretty girls facing him. This was like something straight out of Ripley’s ‘Believe it or Not.’ He doubted they would believe this either. Was it something in the air here, or what? The queue was moving with roughly the same pace as treacle, and he edged their trolley another foot ahead before stopping. The checkout was still miles away.

“I think already maybe we here for another hour or so,” Erica sighed.

Jane giggled. “You can’t take raincoat off.”

“Yes…” Erica sighed.

“You have keys?” Jane asked. “You can unlock raincoat.”

“Jane thought it would be fun to leave the keys at home…” Michael sighed. “So we cannot take our raincoats off. We are completely stuck.”

“Oh wow…” Jane said. “You are crazy. Super loko loko.”

“I guess we are,” Erica agreed. “But it’s so much fun too.”

“I can tell,” Jane agreed. “I wish I have a boyfriend so we can wear our raincoats together.”

Erica laughed. “It will happen one day. Tell you what. I have an idea.”

“What?” Jane asked.

“We’re having a raincoat party next week,” Erica replied. “You want to join us?”

“A raincoat party?” Jane incredulously asked. “What is that?”

“We are going out for lunch with a couple of other people,” Erica explained. “We are all going to wear our plastic pants and raincoats… plastic everything.”

“Oh my God…” Jane breathed. “What… um… what if it’s not rainy?”

“We wear raincoat even if hot and sunny,” Erica implacably replied.

“And locking plastic panties,” Michael added.

“Oh… like, wow.” Jane exclaimed. “Are you serious?”

“Yes.” Erica nodded. “I am. You want?”

Jane thought for a moment. “Ok, I’ll come.” Sighing, “I can’t believe I’m doing this.”

“Hooray!” Erica cheered. “I’m really looking forwards to it.”

“What if I want to take off raincoat?” Jane asked.

“You can’t.” Erica giggled. “Lock everything so not come off.”

“I don’t know why but… this is making me hot,” Jane quietly observed.

“It’s so much more fun when you know you have to wear everything whether you like it or not,” Michael mused.

“Yes,” Jane agreed. “I wear my plastic pants every day, even if hot.” Happily, “It is my discipline.”

“That’s great,” Erica smiled. “We really have so much in common.”

“I want locking plastic pants na,” Jane giggled.

“Don’t worry,” Erica laughed. “By the time we’re done, you’ll be locked into your rainwear all day long.”

“I’m getting excited, talaga,” Jane breathed.

Erica smiled. “Me too. I can’t wait.”

“When?” Jane asked.

“How about next Monday?”

“Awesome. I have day off, can you believe that?”

“Great. What’s your phone number?” Erica asked. “We’ll meet at our house, change then go out.”

After exchanging numbers, Jane sighed softly. “I want talk more but I have to go na. See you next week.”

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

“I can’t believe this,” Michael sighed while they inched down the aisle. They could – just – see the checkouts now. “How come we’re meeting so many kinky girls today?”

Erica giggled. “I told you, remember? I’m friendly and I’m confident. They love what we’re doing. They think already is lots of fun.”

“Yeah… I guess so,” Michael mused. “Maybe it appeals to their sense of humour?” He knew these people had a pretty highly developed, offbeat sense of humour. They didn’t have the same kind of hang-ups he saw so often back home.

“We are a fun-loving people,” Erica commented.

“Yes… I kinda noticed that already,” Michael chuckled. “Like your fiestas.”

“Exactly,” Erica smiled. “It’s more fun in the Philippines.”

“Mmmm… you could say that,” Michael murmured. The line was moving faster now. They were approaching the clear space behind the registers. He squirmed uncomfortably as more people noticed them. There they were, dressed in their gleaming yellow rainwear for a typhoon that would never materialize. This was so embarrassing. Michael flushed with embarrassment, which had the immediate effect of heating his body. His inescapable multi-layered plastic prison all too effectively trapped all of his body heat. He could feel sweat coalescing, and oozing down his chest and legs. A bead of perspiration (such a fancy name for sweat, he thought) stung his eye and he wiped it away. Several giggles told him that his simple act had been noticed. Michael inhaled deeply. All he could do was grin and bear it. The discomfort and embarrassment weren’t going away. He glanced sideways. A thin sheen of sweat covered Erica’s face and he grinned before whispering, “Are you enjoying yourself?”

“Um…” Erica giggled. “I don’t know.”

“Aha…!” Michael chuckled. “So the truth outs at last.”

“I never said that,” Erica protested.

“You wanted this, remember?”

“Yeah…” Erica said in a surprisingly small voice. She was already regretting the impulse to put so many layers of plastic on. She couldn’t even undo the hood, otherwise… But there was no way that she would admit as much.

“My darling… can I undo the hood?” Michael asked.

“Are you a little uncomfortable? Oh dear,” Erica sarcastically replied.

“Yeah… a bit,” Michael awkwardly answered. “So, can I?”

“No!” Erica somewhat sharply replied. “You may not.”

“But why?”

Erica sighed inwardly before replying. “If I can’t undo the hood, then you can’t either. We’re both in this together.”

“Yeah Ok…” Michael reluctantly replied. They weren’t far away from the check out. He glanced sideways. It was visibly lighter outside. Why on Earth had he ever let her talk him into this? They could have been… Although they were now clear of the claustrophobic confines of the high, narrow aisles, they were hardly better off in the roomier space between the aisles and checkouts. As usual, the supermarket people didn’t miss the opportunity to half-fill the space with waist-height confectionery displays designed to tempt hungry shoppers waiting to pay for their groceries.

As usual, the noise level was off the charts. Filipinos are a highly social, gregarious race. Unlike Australia, where grocery shopping is viewed as little more than a boring (and expensive) chore, they see it as an opportunity for a social outing. It certainly appeared that the majority of shoppers had brought half their families along with them, and it only added to the tumultuous crush of people queuing up to pay for their groceries. More than a few people were doing ‘marketing’ runs for their little sari-sari stores back home, and they were pushing anywhere from two to four overloaded trollies filled with small toiletries, sugary sweets, potato crisps and other comestibles – all of which had to be rung up individually.

It was almost impossible to move in the jam of people and trolleys, but that was the least of their worries. Michael and Erica stood out like lighthouse beacons in their impossibly shiny yellow rainwear. Nobody else was dressed remotely like them. Everyone was dressed as if preparing for a day at the beach. Although some people wore jeans, the majority of people were dressed as very lightly as possible for the heat. Most of the girls were wearing light sundresses or blouses teamed with crisp cotton shorts. He was uncomfortably aware that they were very much the centre of attention. Michael wanted to die. Incredulity and disbelief were writ large on everybody’s faces. Others were regarding them with barely concealed amusement or contempt. He could barely face their giggling, laughing tormentors.
Michael glanced in Erica’s direction. Incredibly, she was happily chatting to another couple. She was absolutely indefatigable, Michael thought. How does she do it?

“Hey, I want you to meet Carlotta and Brad,” she happily gushed.

“Hi,” he awkwardly replied. “Nice to meet you.”

“Good to meet you too, mate.” Brad smiled warmly. “I guess you’re also from Australia as well?”

“Sure am.” Michael smiled. I’m from Melbourne and you?”

“I’m from Sydney, and my girlfriend, Carlotta is from Isabela City. It’s not far from Zamboanga. We’re just travelling around Mindanao at the moment.”

“Are you enjoying your trip?” Michael curiously studied Brad’s beautiful Sulu Sea companion. Lush, fiery Carlotta was a true ‘morena’ girl with her exceptionally dark complexion and amazing thatch of unruly, frizzy black hair. He knew that the gorgeous, sassy Sulu Sea sirens were some of the loveliest girls in the world, but little, lithe Carlotta was simply breath-taking.

“Oh, yes!” Brad enthusiastically replied. “Mindanao is absolutely amazing. I can’t believe how beautiful it is.”

“Guess what?” Erica interjected.

“I think I can guess,” Michael grinned, “but you tell me.”

Erica laughed. “Carlotta was saying already how much she likes our raincoats.”

“They’re so shiny,” Carlotta giggled. “Like a lighthouse.”

“They sure are,” Michael agreed.

“I hope you don’t mind my asking,” Brad awkwardly asked, “But why are you wearing your raincoats?” He glanced sideways. “It’s not raining anymore.”

“So I heard,” Michael sighed. “Miss Know-it-all was so confident that it would rain all day that she thought it would be a good idea to go out in just our raincoats.”

Carlotta laughed loudly. “Is that why you padlock already his raincoat?”

“Yes.” Erica sternly said. “He didn’t want to wear his safety yellow plastic raincoat so I made him put it on.”

“She left the keys at home,” Michael sighed. “So…”

“Far out,” Carlotta disbelievingly said. “You’re crazy.”

“Everyone says that,” Erica giggled.

“Talaga, it’s not my thing. I just couldn’t do that,” Carlotta said. “I like your raincoats so much, but talaga, they are for the rain only.”

“I know,” Erica giggled.

“Erica loves wearing her plastic raincoat so much that she wants to wear it all the time,” Michael teased.

“You’re the one who introduce me to wearing plastic.” Erica unhesitatingly returned serve. “Whose idea was it to make me wear my plastic pants?”

“Plastic pants? Oh my god… You are crazy,” Carlotta giggled.

“Oh yes… we are,” Erica agreed. “Seriously, I love wear plastic so much. It makes me happy.”

Carlotta shook her head disbelievingly. “I just don’t believe this.”

“Hey…” Erica cheekily said. “How about you come join us for our rainwear party next week?”

“A what?” Brad exclaimed.

“A rainwear party,” Erica repeated. “We are going to catch up with a few friends for lunch next week.” She paused theatrically. “We are going to wear our raincoats all day.”

“Oh my…” Carlotta breathed. “Talaga? We have to wear plastic raincoat?”

Erica nodded. “Of course.”

“What if it not rain?” Carlotta curiously asked.

“We wear plastic raincoat, plastic pants, plastic everything. Rain or shine.” Erica’s voice was unusually firm as she added, “Are you in or out?”

“Oh…!” Carlotta exclaimed before shaking her head. “Sorry, but… we’re out. Definitely out.”

“Sure?” Erica chuckled.

“Very sure.” Carlotta grinned to show she meant no malice. “It’s not my thing. How many are going?” she curiously asked.

Erica thought for a moment. “Five definite, so far. Maybe more.”

“Oh, that’s far out,” Brad commented. “Hope you have a great time.”

“I’m really looking forwards to it,” Michael smiled.

“Only because they’re all girls,” Erica smirked.

“You better make it sure he behaves himself then,” Carlotta giggled.

“Don’t worry, I plan to do just that.” Erica smiled sweetly.

“Great. Let us know how you go.” Carlotta smiled before whipping out her phone. “What’s your number?”

After exchanging numbers, Carlotta said they had to finish their shopping and they politely made their farewells amidst a lot of giggling and laughter. Incredibly (if such a thing as possible), the supermarket was so jammed with people that barely anyone could move. The noise and heat were both increasing rapidly and Erica sighed as she wiped her sweaty brow. They were still some two of so metres away from the nearest checkout, and a fat lady was towing two trolleys laden with junk food for her sari-sari store.

“This is worse than Roxas Boulevard in peak hour,” Erica complained. She glanced sideways. There was no way she was going to admit that she might have made an awful mistake. Her plastic playsuit, plastic pants and rainpants were all slick and slippery with sweat. Normally, she would have thoroughly relished the incredible sensations that her sweaty plastic clothing was providing, but… Not for the first time, Erica regretted the impulse that made her don her jelly jacket over everything, before putting her vinyl rainwear on. She desperately wanted to undo the hood, but… the very last thing Erica wanted was for everyone to see the second layer of plastic covering her sodden hair.

“We might be here for another hour or so,” Michael observed. “I pity the people at the back of the queue.”

‘I pity us,’ Erica privately thought.

“They drowned in their sweat,” Michael joked. “How’s that for an obituary?”

“Haha. Very funny,” Erica sarcastically replied. ‘He’s not half kidding.’ She glanced downwards. Her rainboots were already half full of water. Ugh. Erica sighed inwardly while she toyed with the padlock. Their raincoats were definitely not coming off until they got home. Why, then, was this making her so hot? Erica didn’t have to look to know how wet her tingling, excited pussy was and it wasn’t sweat.

There was something about being locked inside her plastic pants and rainwear which really did it for her like nothing else. That she could not do anything about her situation only made it that much more exciting. Erica moaned softly. She was so horny that it was a physical ache. Erica looked at Michael’s flushed face, and grinned. Thank God they would be home soon. Hopefully. Then she would…

A sudden loud voice abruptly shattered her day dream. “Nanay, why are they wearing their shiny yellow raincoats? It’s not raining.”

“I don’t know,” a clearly disapproving voice said.

“But you made me take my raincoat off,” the youthful voice complained.

Impatiently, “Raincoats are for the rain.”

“But Nanay!”

“But nothing!” Crossly, “And if you answer me back again, yes I will make you put your raincoat back on and you’ll wear it all the way home! Is that what you want?”

“Yes, I want!”

“You are absolutely impossible!”

If looks could kill, Erica was sure she would have dropped stone dead then and there as the young girl’s furious mother shot her a filthy look before impatiently pushing her way through the queue.

“What was all that about?” Michael asked. “I couldn’t understand a single word.”

Giggling loudly, Erica told him.

“Wow that’s funny,” Michael said.

“Yeah,” Erica agreed. “But talaga, you should have seen the way she looked at me.”

Michael sighed. “I don’t totally blame her. Our raincoats are pretty out there.”

“They sure are,” Erica agreed. “But… you know how much I love wearing my plastic rainwear.”

“You’ve only told me that five hundred and thirty-five million time,” Michael smirked. “You sound like a cracked record set on a permanent play loop.”

Erica laughed. “Oo, I know. But my love…” She lovingly pulled him close and slipped her arm around his waist. “that’s because it’s true. Salamat for share this with me.”

“Walang anuman.” Michael smiled. It was worth all the embarrassment, and then some, just to feel Erica’s arm wrapped around his body. Her hand was surreptitiously caressing the slick smooth vinyl concealing his plastic undergarments. He didn’t have to look to know how hard he was again.

“Big boy’s enjoying himself again?” Erica purred.

“What a shame you have to wait until we get home before you can enjoy it.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Erica rolled her eyes. “You’re lucky I can’t undo my plastic pants or raincoat, otherwise I’d…”

“I would what?” Michael asked.

“You know damn well,” Erica giggled. She loved this kind of playful banter. It was so much fun teasing him.

“Shame on you for thinking such impure thoughts,” Michael chuckled.

“Who, me? Never,” Erica declared.

“Why is it that I don’t believe you?”

Erica smirked. “Would I lie to you?”

“I…” Michael began before exclaiming, “At last… it’s our turn now!”

“Saved by the bell,” Erica giggled.

Michael flinched as the astonished cashier and her companions stared incredulously at them. He didn’t like the way their eyes roamed over every inch of their glistening rainwear.

“Don’t mind us. We’re aliens,” Erica said.

The girls screamed with laughter.

‘How does she do it?’ Michael wondered yet again while the four or so girls fell into an animated discussion. He couldn’t understand a word they were saying, but it was clear what they were talking about between a great deal of giggling.

“Sorry, Mike,” Erica said. “I was just talk with the cashier.”

“Oo, I noticed that,” Michael dryly observed.

“I like raincoat,” the young cashier (her staff badge announced that her name was Joan) piped up. “Is very shiny and smooth. I think already very waterproof.”

“It is,” Michael agreed.

“Rain so hard this morning,” she complained. “I get wet so much. Traffic super bad, so I late for work.” Indignantly, “They dock half my pay!”

“Sorry to hear that,” Erica sighed. “Same here when I used to work at McDo’s.”

“It so unfair,” another girl, packing their purchases in a brown cardboard box, crossly said. “Is not our fucking fault.”

“What can we do?” yet another girl wearily sighed. “They not care about us.”

“We work hard so much,” someone else said, “but the managers, they do nothing.”

“My boss, she shout at me because my uniform is already so wet,” the packer said. “She say, you go dry your uniform before work. I lose 2 hours pay for that.”

Erica nodded sympathetically. She didn’t know what else to say.

“I want buy raincoat like yours.” The packer ran her hand down the sleeve of Erica’s shiny yellow raincoat. “Gosh, it’s so smooth! I love it. Where can I buy?”

Michael smiled. “I found Erica’s raincoat on eBay and I bought mine from an online shop in Europe.”

“Oh…” Her face fell like a barometer in a hurricane. “Not can buy here?”

“Nope.” Michael shook his head.

“Try the local palengke,” Erica suggested. “Or hardware store. Many raincoats there.”

“Ok, I look later.” Clearly disappointed, “Pero I like your raincoat more.”

“Me too,” Joan smiled. “I really like.”

“Salamat.” Erica beamed with pleasure. “I love wearing it.”

“I wish I can wear,” Joan sighed. “It’s ganda so much.”

Somewhat surprised, Erica asked, “You really like it that much?”

“Oo!” Joan exclaimed.

Erica bit her lip before replying. “Look… We’re having a rainwear party next week. Would you like to join us?”

“A what?” Joan’s eyebrows furrowed with puzzlement.

“What I said,” Erica giggled. “A rainwear party. You can come and wear your favourite yellow raincoat.”

“Oh…!” Joan breathed. “B… but I don’t even own a raincoat.”

“You can borrow mine,” Erica generously offered.

Joan giggled. “How many raincoats do you have?”

“A few,” Erica smirked.

Joan raised her eyebrows archly before asking, “But what if it’s not raining?”

“Then we wear plastic raincoat anyway.” Erica smiled sweetly. “Rain or shine. I think already that what you want?” she challenged.

“Oh my God…” Joan exclaimed. “You are crazy.” She laughed loudly, attracting a couple of angry glares from other, unsmiling supervisors within earshot. Joan sighed theatrically before replying. “Pero I think already it might be fun. Ok, why not?”

“Yay,” Erica cheered. “It’ll be so much fun.”

“When?” Joan asked.

“Next week. Monday,” Erica replied. “Can you make it?”

“I have day off,” Joan offered. “I’ll see you then.” She glanced at her flabbergasted colleagues, “Wanna come too?”

The other girls all shook their heads. “I don’t like,” the packer said. “But I hope you enjoy.”

“Walang anuman,” Erica smiled. “Salamat for your time.”

“Yup, see you then,” Michael added.

“Far out,” Michael said as he wheeled their groceries out on the trolley. The wheel protested loudly upon being asked to conduct a 180 degree turn and Michael flushed hotly as several people stared in their direction. “I don’t know how you do it. You’ve only known her for what, five minutes? Then… I can’t believe it.”

“I told you before,” Erica giggled.

“Yeah… I know.” Michael desperately wished he could exude even half as much confidence as his raincoated girlfriend calmly strolling down the wide concourse. While he inwardly cringed with embarrassment, she smiled and nodded at everyone gazing at them with expressions ranging from wonder to shock to derision to outright hostility. It was almost half past four and dozens of schoolchildren were enjoying afternoon ‘gimmicks’ (outings) with their friends. Unsurprisingly, they weren’t shy about making their derision for the couple known. Michael looked straight ahead and tried to ignore the gawking spectators seated at every available table at a nearby McDonalds.

Erica placed her hand around his arm and smiled warmly. “Are you enjoying, my darling?”

“Um…” Michael bit his lip before nervously replying. He hoped that Erica wouldn’t bite his head off. “I feel … very self-conscious.”

“I know,” Erica sympathetically replied. Tactfully, “It’s a new experience for me, naman.”

“You could say that,” Michael replied, with more than a little feeling, as they passed another group of giggling schoolgirls. The coats and jackets they’d seen this morning had all but disappeared. Everyone was wearing their lightest clothes now.

“Try to relax,” Erica gently advised him. “You know what they say? When you laugh, the world laughs with you.”

“Yes…” Michael nodded thoughtfully. “I totally get that.”

“My darling,” Erica patiently continued. “It’s all about confidence. Look people in face. Smile. Say hello. Talk to them.”

“I noticed how you make friends so easily,” Michael observed. “Everyone thinks you’re great.”

“Almost everyone,” Erica smirked. “Haters will hate, but who cares what they think? Wearing my plastic pants, my plastic raincoat makes me feel good, it makes me happy. That’s the important.”

Michael felt a deep, tingly shiver course down his spine as he disbelievingly studied the girl who’d once viewed plastic rainwear as little more than a utilitarian accessory for wet days. Erica was the most amazing person whom he’d ever met. “Yes… exactly,” he agreed.

“Darling, I really love wearing my plastic pants and raincoat,” Erica murmured.

“Five hundred and thirty five million and one,” Michael murmured.

“Oh, you’re still keeping count na, are we?” Erica giggled.

“Something like that,” Michael chortled.

Erica giggled again. “You are so funny. Seriously… my mahal, it’s all about dressing for pleasure, diba? We both love to wear plastic. If it makes happy, not hurt anyone, what’s the problem?”

The irony was immense. Michael felt his head spin. It wasn’t even six months since he’d told Erica about his passion for plastic during one online chat. It’d taken her a while to understand why he always wanted to wear his raincoat so much. They’d completely reversed roles in the most stunning manner possible. She was the one talking him into wearing his rainwear.

“You look so serious,” Erica smiled. “What are you think about?”

“I was just thinking about how ironic it is that you’re the one talking me into wearing my raincoat.”

“Yeah.” Erica squeezed his hand tightly. “I think already you created a monster.”

“I don’t mind at all, my darling.”

“Darling…” Erica bit her lip before replying. “I’ve been so happy with you. Thank you again for… everything.”

“Walang anuman…” Michael softly replied. “You’re my life, Ms. Raincoat.”

“Wow… Ms. Raincoat?” Erica sighed dreamily. “I love it. I want we’ll be Mr. & Mrs. Raincoat one day.”

“Same here, more than I can say, my love.”

“I… Oh…” Erica gasped as they approached the entrance of the mall. “I think already not rainy na.”

Michael sighed with utter dismay as they stepped outside. The sky was that shade of deep cerulean blue which instantly told him that any further rain was about as far distant as winning the ‘MegaMillions’ lottery. The only sign of the recent storm battering Gensan was the number of large, shimmering puddles dotting the side of the road and a couple of small depressions in the wide concourse circling the mall. Steam was rising in lazy tendrils here and there. Although it wasn’t blazing hot, the humidity was uncomfortably high.

The concourse was also packed with people and Michael swallowed uncomfortably. It appeared at least half of them were staring at them with stunned shock. And well they might, he thought. Michael was under no illusion what a ridiculous sight they must be making, in gleaming yellow rainwear more suitable for a Category 5 typhoon than a warm, sunny afternoon. Not one other person was wearing anything heavier than light tees, or dresses, in the case of the girls. That Erica for once, appeared equally taken aback was small comfort.

They were very much the centre of attention, and not in a good way either. For the first time, Michael knew how a circus clown must feel in front of hundreds of people. There’s nowhere to hide in a ring surrounded by tier after tier of seats. Remembering Erica’s advice, Michael held his head high while he glanced around. Unsurprisingly, most of the watching schoolchildren found their rainwear to be of great interest. He could see them pointing and giggling. It wasn’t hard to guess what they were talking about. Most of the older folk were too polite to stare directly, but the disdain and contempt for them and their outlandish apparel was writ large on their faces. Somewhat surprisingly, more than a few people strolled past without evincing any interest in them whatsoever. Well, it’s a big city, he thought.

Incredibly enough, more than a few people appeared to like their rainwear. A small group of college girls were studying them with great interest. He smiled and waved in their direction. The girls grinned and waved back, along with giving a couple of ‘thumbs-ups’. “At least we have some fans,” Michael chuckled.

“Yeah.” Erica grinned. “I’m proud of you. You’re going great.”

“Gee, thanks.” Michael returned her warm smile.

A couple of seconds later, a youngish couple, who’d just disembarked a local tricycle, approached them. “I love your raincoats, mate.” He held out his hand and Michael happily returned his warm, if somewhat over-enthusiastic handshake.

“Thanks, mate,” he replied. “Nice to meet ya.”

“Pleased to meet you too. What’s your name?”

“I’m Andrew and,” he motioned in the direction of his stunningly pretty partner, “her name’s Flordelyn.”

“But… why are you wearing?” Flordelyn curiously asked. “Is not raining.”

“Good question,” Michael sighed and glanced sideways. “She made me. I didn’t want to wear my raincoat this morning, so Erica said I have to wear it rain or shine.”

“It’s for his own good.” Erica smirked.

Flordelyn laughed loudly. “Is that why you put padlock?”

“Yes,” Erica baldly said. “Raincoat stay. Not come off.”

“I love the way you think,” Andrew commented. “Flor, how about it?”

“Absolutely no way!” Flordelyn giggled. “Raincoat is for the rain.”

“If you say so,” Andrew chuckled.

“I was hoped would rain all day,” Flordelyn explained in broken, but more than passable English, “so we can wear our plastic raincoats, but…” she shrugged eloquently.

“Can I ask you something?” Andrew interjected.

Puzzled, Erica nodded. “Yeah sure.”

“Hope you don’t mind my asking, but…” Andrew hesitated for a moment before continuing. “Are you into wearing plastic raincoats?”

“How did you ever guess?” Michael smiled. “Yes we are.”

“My boyfriend, he introduce me to wearing plastic pants, plastic raincoat, plastic everything,” Erica piped up. Somewhat shyly, “I think is very strange at first but now… I really love to wear so much.”

“Wowwww…” Flordelyn exclaimed. “Same here. I wear plastic pants every day naman. We both love wear plastic, but raincoat only inside or rainy.”

“We are not brave like you,” Andrew smiled.

“Or very stupid,” Michael grinned.

Andrew laughed. “You could say that.”

“It’s so much fun though,” Erica giggled.

“I wish it will rain again,” Flordelyn sighed.

“I doubt it,” Andrew replied. “Anyway, we gotta dash. It was great to meet you, but we’re supposed to be meeting some friends for dinner, and we’re already late.”

“Oh ok. Thanks for that chat and ingat.” Disappointed they had to leave so quickly, Erica watched them vanish inside the mall.

“Would’ve been nice to invite them to our rainwear party,” Michael sighed.

“I know. I was about to ask them, but…”

“Oh well… Next time,” Michael philosophically replied. “Anyway, what say we get a taxi? It’s so hot and it’ll be easier carrying everything home.”

Erica thought for a moment. “Yeah, good idea.” Although she was enjoying herself, Erica was secretly relieved that they would have some time to themselves. It was exhausting being the centre of attention. Although she would never admit as much, Erica was secretly looking forwards to escaping the muggy heat for the air-conditioned coolness of the taxi. She was a puddle of sweat. Erica flushed hotly as she noticed the sticky trail of perspiration that they were leaving behind them. No wonder people were staring. One didn’t have to be Einstein to guess what they would be thinking.

She was suddenly acutely aware of the loud ‘slock! slock’ sound that her rustling rainwear made with every step. Everyone, Erica was sure, could hear them coming miles away. There was nothing they could do about it though. They’d just left the shelter of the concourse roof and the blazing tropical sun was doing its best to cook them alive inside their plastic prisons. Although they were facing away from the malevolent orb in the sky, every ray of sunlight was striking the hood circling her face as well as her back. The plastic was already rapidly heating under the glare of the disapproving sun. Erica ran her fingers over the padlock trapping her inside three layers of plastic (four if one counted her large, full cut plastic pants) and sighed inaudibly. They were completely, hopelessly stuck for the foreseeable future.

The brilliant gleam of the bright safety yellow vinyl was all but unbearable beneath the effulgent glow of the waning sun. Michael hesitantly glanced around. His earlier self-consciousness was quickly returning. He was under no illusion what a ridiculous sight they must make in their buttercup yellow slickers. His raincoat was just long enough to allow the gaping spectators to see the rainpants neatly tucked inside his rubber boots. The last time he’d ever experienced anything approaching this level of humiliation was being rejected by the prettiest girl at school in front of his classmates at the school end-of-year social. It was years before he lived that one down. The incredulous stares that they were receiving from the other commuters scarcely helped his mood.

Accurately guessing his deteriorating mood, Erica squeezed his hand and smiled. “We’re in this together.”

“Yeah.” Michael couldn’t face their sneering tormentors. Inside the supermarket, they had some excuse for being unaware that it’d stopped raining. Outside, underneath the now cloudless sky, they had no such excuse. Although the sting had gone out of the late-afternoon sun, it was still sufficiently hot and humid to be more than a little uncomfortable for even the most lightly dressed of people at the best of times, never mind anyone silly enough to clad themselves in plastic rainwear from head to toe. The exertion required to hump around several heavy boxes of groceries scarcely helped matters either. “I thought we were going to catch a taxi instead?” he asked.

Erica sighed. “We just passed the taxi rank. There aren’t any. See how long the queue is?”

Michael nodded dejectedly. He’d hoped to escape Dodge City before peak hour, but that was clearly not going to happen either. They were approaching the jeepney ‘terminal’ (really just a glorified parking lot for this most Filipino of public transport) bordering the mall. He sighed with relief as they walked into the shade of the roofed concourse bordering the jeepney parking lot. Aware that Gensan is a rainy city, they’d built the roof to provide shelter from the rain – and the blazing tropical sun. Unsurprisingly, it was crowded with hot, sweaty commuters, the majority of whom looked completely befuddled upon seeing them.

As usual, the loud, exuberant chaos of the Filipino public transport experience was completely overwhelming. The rear of the pathway was occupied by itinerant vendors selling everything from cold drinks, hot snacks, cigarettes (usually sold by the ‘stick’ which the vendor would light for the buyer), all manner of sweets, potato crisps, facemasks, hand towels for the heat, and much more. Michael was sure that most of it came from the supermarket they’d just left. Unsurprisingly, the markups were high. Convenience costs. At least the water was cold though. Erica hadn’t wasted any time ensuring that they would not become too dehydrated. She paid the goggling seller and ordered him to drink.

While Michael gratefully drained half of the big 2-litre bottle in one gulp, he curiously gazed around. Little boys scurried about here and there, skillfully guiding smoking jeepneys into their parking slots in exchange for a few pesos from the grateful drivers. A pungent smell of gasoline, overheating engines and the body odor of the sweaty masses surrounded them.

Working out where each jeepney was bound was all but impossible, but everybody seemed to know exactly where they should go, or stand. The garishly painted jeepneys all looked the same to him, although some stood out more than others with their amazing paint jobs depicting cars, ships, religious objects or whatever tickled the driver’s fancy. One jeepney even sported a childish parade of Disney heroines on the side. Some, although fortunately only a few, vehicles were so old and decrepit that they shouldn’t even be on the road at all, Michael thought disgustedly while he studied them. Someone had even used duct tape to hold the wide, curved fender onto the body. It was unlikely anyone would ever bother pull them over for any kind of roadworthy or other kind of compliance checks. “Erica, how do everyone know where to catch the right jeepney?” he curiously asked.

“Easy,” she said. “They have signs on the top, so we all know where jeepney goes. Duh.”

“Easy for you,” Michael pointed out, “but the names mean nothing to me.”

“You’ve been here for what? Six weeks?” Erica snorted with laughter. “I lived here already all my live.”

“Life, you mean?” Michael gently corrected her.

“Oo, life. Whatever,” Erica giggled. “You know what I mean.”

“Yeah.” Michael nodded. “I get it.” Thank God for this distracting chat. The stares, whispers and comments were becoming almost too much to bear, and he desperately searched for a way to continue their convo.

“Hello,” a voice said.

“Oh…! Hi,” Erica smiled. “Small world, isn’t it? You sat next to us on the jeepney this morning.”

“How could I forget you?” the girl giggled. “Oh my God. Why are you still wearing your raincoats? It’s not raining anymore.”

“Good question.” Erica pretended to sigh. “Because we’re crazy.”

“I’ll say you are.” She disbelievingly studied their gleaming rainwear. “I think already you are enjoying so much.”

“Yes… we are.” Erica agreed. “Crazy but fun.”

Aware that Michael couldn’t follow their conversation, conducted in rapid Bisaya, Erica smiled. “Excuse me. My boyfriend’s wondering what we are talking about.”

“Sorry, Michael.” Erica apologized. “Her English is not good so we’re speaking in Bisaya.”

“No worries, I totally understand.” Michael smiled. “I can guess what you’re talking about anyway.”

“Of course.” Erica smiled widely. “She wants to know why we’re wearing our plastic raincoats.”

“Did you tell her why we can’t take our raincoats off?” Michael chuckled.

“Erica giggled. “You want me to tell her about your plastic pants?”

“Touche.”

The girl said something and Erica smiled warmly. “She wants to know what’s your name?” Erica said. “She also asked if you’re my boyfriend.”

“My name is Michael.” He addressed their new companion directly. “What is your name?”

“Hi Michael. Sorry my English bad,” she apologised. “My name Jonquil.”

“That’s a very pretty name. Nice to meet you.”

“Sal… I mean thank you.”

“And I’m Erica. I was so surprised to see you again,” Erica smoothly interjected.

“You know, I was thinking about you just now.” Jonquil giggled softly.

“Talaga?”

Jonquil nodded. “Oo, talaga. I was wondering if you would still be wearing your raincoats. Then… I see two people wearing shiny yellow raincoats… and I know, I just know already it’s you.”

Erica laughed. “I guess it wasn’t hard to work out who we were.”

“Your raincoats really stand out.”

“Yeah … they do,” Erica admitted.

“Can I ask?” Jonquil suddenly said.

“You want to know the real reason why we’re wearing our raincoats, diba?”

“Yeah,” Jonquil giggled. “Honestly, I don’t understand why you’re still wearing your raincoats. It’s hot na.” She wiped a spot of sweat off her forehead before leaning forward and incredulously studying the padlock threaded through the buckle and belt loops. “Why you padlock your raincoats?”

Good question.” Erica sighed. She felt somewhat awkward under Jonquil’s questioning. “My boyfriend didn’t want to wear his raincoat this morning … I said he has to wear it, whether he likes it or not.” Conspiratorially, as imparting a State secret, “So… I challenged him. I told him you have to wear nothing but plastic underneath so you cannot take it off.”

“What…?” Jonquil breathed. “Plastic? I don’t get it.”

My boyfriend and I both have this thing for wearing plastic raincoats and…” Erica paused for extra effect. “We also both enjoy wearing plastic clothes, plastic everything talaga.”

“Oh my…” Jonquil breathed. “Now I know why you can’t take off your raincoats.”

“Yup.” Erica nodded.

“Why do you like wearing plastic so much?” Jonquil curiously asked.

“I love the way plastic feels so much,” Erica softly replied. “It’s so shiny and smooth. Um… I can’t get over the way it clings to my skin. It’s so yummy.”

Thoughtfully, “That’s interesting.”

“Interesting? What do you mean?”

Jonquil smiled. “I never really thought about this much before, but I actually enjoy wearing my plastic raincoat when it’s wet. I like the way the plastic feels to my skin. To be honest, I was disappointed when it stopped raining, and I had to take it off.”

Erica laughed. ‘You should have left it on!’

“Next time I will.” Jonquil smiled, before adding, “you know what?”

“What?”

Giggling, “I bought some plastic rainpants like yours. Blue plastic, like my raincoat. I saw how they really help keep your legs dry. I was really looking forwards to wearing them, but…”

“It stopped raining,” Erica laughed.

“Yes…” Jonquil sighed. “Can you believe that?”

“I actually thought it would rain all day,” Erica commiserated.

“So did I.”

“You can still wear your rainwear even if it’s not rainy,” Erica smoothly observed.

“Huh?”

‘You heard me. Come on,” Erica giggled. “You know you want to. Put your raincoat back on. Come on, put it on now!”
“Oh…” Jonquil exclaimed. “Oh my God. This is crazy.”

“I know it’s crazy.” Erica beamed. “That’s why it’s so much fun.”

“Yeah,” Jonquil agreed before sighing theatrically. “I don’t know why I’m doing this, but… ok, I’ll do it.”

“Hooray!” Erica cheered, somewhat unable to believe that this was happening. “Ok, do it. Put your raincoat on now. Oh, and your rainpants too.”

“You want me to dress for a typhoon?”

“Michael said the same thing this morning,” Erica smirked. “So… to answer your question, yes, I do.”

Huh?” Michael exclaimed as Jonquil sat down and pulled her brand-new plastic rainpants out of her carry bag before ripping the package apart. She shook them open, and the freshly minted plastic unfolded with an intoxicating crisp rustle. “What the…”

Erica laughed. The look of absolute incredulity and confusion decorating Michael’s face was so funny. “Sorry, Mike darling. We were talking about our raincoats. Jonquil was telling me about her trip to buy some rainpants and she said she wanted to wear them, but it stopped raining by the time she left the mall.”

“Wow… I see,” Michael replied. “Then?”

“So I told her you can wear your raincoat if you want. I said put it on now… and she did.”
Disbelievingly, “Oh, far out.” Michael incredulously watched Jonquil slipping her transparent blue rainpants on. The soft, thick plastic shone in the late afternoon sun. He tried to ignore the familiar surge of excitement in his loins as the girl stood and hitched them all the way up her stomach. Plastic always had this effect on him. But watching someone else unselfconsciously dressing for the rain, now that was something else altogether.

“Enjoying the show?” a voice purred in his ear.

“Er…” How had she known?

“Darling, I know you so well.” Delighted she’d caught him out, Erica giggled like a schoolgirl.

Blissfully unaware of the little tête-à-tête taking place between Michael and Erica, Jonquil retrieved her folded raincoat and smilingly put it on. Clearly aware of the show that she was putting on for the goggling spectators, Jonquil deliberately drew out the dressing process, methodically fastening each press-stud from the top to the bottom. She was very much the centre of attention now, and Jonquil knew it. Even the young boys had ceased their endless rounds guiding jeepneys into their parking spots to watch this entirely unexpected performance. Jonquil rewarded everyone with a beaming smile before leisurely lifting the attached hood above her head and drawing it towards her face. She carefully tugged each drawstring until the rippling plastic dome stretched as tightly around her head as it would go. Satisfied she couldn’t make it any tighter, Jonquil tied the laces in a neat bow under her pert chin.

Jonquil glanced around and grinned. She had everyone’s undivided attention now. Her smile was a sun as she sashayed down the narrow pavement, scant feet away from the rear steps of the jeepneys waiting for passengers. Jonquil’s raincoat rustled and crackled loudly as she pirouetted for the onlookers, before tripping back the way she’d come, as if she was rocking down the runway in Paris.

“Oh my…’ Michael disbelievingly breathed. All of a sudden, they had everyone on side. No one was laughing at them anymore. They were laughing with them. What an amazing difference it was. Michael glanced sideways. How did his girlfriend manage to do this? Erica’s ability to win people over was nothing short of sorcerous. She’d taken the crowd by the scruff of the neck and wowed everyone.

Half of the spectators had their phones out, and Jonquil happily played up for them, before rejoining Michael and Erica. Their new friend handed her cell phone to someone whom she clearly knew, judging from their easy familiarity with each other, before posing for dozens (at least it seemed that way) of photos with them.

All too soon their jeepney pulled into its allotted spot, and it was time to board their transport home. Because it was the last stop on its schedule, the jeepney was all but empty this time of day. Only a few passengers disembarked, leaving them with their choice of seats. Because Michael and the girls were nearest to the rear entrance of the jeepney, they boarded first. The best seats are always next to the driver, because they’re much wider and there’s lots more leg room. More importantly, the spacious footwell also contained more than enough space for their boxed groceries. It’s also significantly cooler with the air coming straight through the open side window. Erica couldn’t resist giggling as the astonished driver studied his raincoated passengers plonking themselves down next to him. “Why you wear raincoat?” he incredulously asked. He glanced over his shoulder and shook his head disbelievingly.

“In case it rains,” Erica chuckled.

He laughed loudly. “I think not rain.”

“Always be prepared,” Erica cheekily replied. She delved inside her purse and gave him a two hundred peso note. “I’m paying for Jonquil too.”

Within seconds, the jeepney filled up with other passengers, and they were off. Time is money, and Filipino jeepney drivers don’t like wasting even one moment of travel time. Unfortunately for their driver, the traffic was exceptionally bad. The majority of Philippine cities aren’t laid out well for cars, and the traffic had more or less ground to a standstill. There’s no such thing as lane discipline which only exacerbated the congestion. It was, literally, for man for himself. Tricycles, cheap compacts, vans, large expensive SUV’s, jeepneys and buses all jostled for space. It scarcely helped that the undisciplined jeepney drivers simply stopped in the middle of the road to collect, or let off passengers.

it was still hot and there was virtually no wind, so they slowly began to bake inside their PVC cocoons. Worst of all, there was nothing they could do about it, except sweat. Fortunately, there were plenty of itinerant sellers supplying bottled water and they gratefully stocked up on liquid refreshments for themselves and the friendly driver whom they’d learnt was called Ernesto. After fielding his questions, everyone lapsed into a companionable silence. It’d been a long day, and they were thoroughly worn out. Their heavy plastic and PVC rainwear was hardly lightweight apparel either.

Eventually, much to their relief, the traffic began to flow more freely as they approached the outskirts of Gensan. Apart from the cloying heat, they were both growing tired of the constant slack-jawed stares and more than a little derision – not that Erica or Michael would admit as much though. Jonquil seated behind them was much less visible. She’d also loyally left her rainwear done up in support of her sweaty companions.

Without any warning, the road cleared up ahead and the jeepney bowled along. The breeze flowing through the open window was surprisingly cooling, despite the heat of the afternoon. After the horrific heat and humidity of the concrete metropolis they’d just left, it came as a big relief. It was at least five or ten degrees cooler in the picturesque green Mindanao countryside surrounding Gensan. Here and there, farmer’s shanties roughly built out of grey concrete blocks and/or nipa dotted the mostly flat terrain, virtually every inch of which was occupied by lush green rice paddies. The rains had been good this year and the rice was going gangbusters. Despite the abundance of rice and vegetables and pineapples all being grown out here, General Santos City is best known for its tuna fisheries. Their boats supply millions of pounds of this sleek torpedo-shaped fish to the Philippines and surrounding nations every year.

“Erica, are you OK?” Michael asked. She was squirming uncomfortably.

“No, I’m not OK.” Erica sighed loudly and crossed her legs over each other. “I gotta go so bad. I really need to pee.”

Michael sighed. “Thanks for reminding me.” His bladder was also reminding him that he needed to go as well.
“You’re welcome.” He gazed into her face. “How’s those locking plastic panties and raincoat working out for you now?” he teased.

“Oh shup up,” Erica crossly replied. “It’s not funny. I gotta go so bad, Michael.”

“Should’ve worn diapers under your plastic pants,” Michael chuckled, enjoying one of the rare opportunities he got to put one over her. Then, walang problema.”

Erica rolled her eyes. “Yes, very funny, Michael. Maybe already I make you put diapers on then tie you up all night. No need go C.R then. You want?”

“Er… no.” Michael shook his head. He knew that Erica was perfectly capable of carrying out her threat.
“Yeah, I thought so,” she chuckled.

Consolingly, “Not long to go now.”

“I hope so.” They still had another fifteen-minute walk home after getting off the jeepney. Erica was not sure if she could last that long. Hopefully there would be a trike hanging around to pick up fares. The last thing she wanted was being forced to hoof it with their rather heavy boxes.

After another long, somewhat uncomfortable silence, the jeepney finally drew up to the stop opposite the winding road leading to their house. Their legs were somewhat stiff after being contorted in the more or less one position during the long drive home, but they eventually managed to extricate themselves from the jeepney before farewelling Ernesto. He wouldn’t allow them to leave until he’d taken several snaps of them.

“I was hoping there would be a tricycle about,” Erica sighed. “Looks like we have to walk.”

“Is OK,” Jonquil said. “I’ll help you carry your box.”

“Thank you so much,” Erica softly replied. “I really appreciate it. Are you sure though? It’s a long walk.”

“Walang problema,” Jonquil smiled. “I live up the road too. I never knew you live so near me.”

“Small world,” Erica agreed. “You don’t have to wear your raincoat though.”

“Is Ok,” Jonquil grinned. “We are all in this together. If you wear, I wear also.”

“Awesome.” Erica replied. “Ok let’s go.”

While the girls gabbled away in rapid, sing-song Bisaya, Michael walked alongside them. Although it was still warm and somewhat humid, the sting had gone out of the afternoon heat. The sun was well down the yardarm now. They were more than grateful for the abundant shade that the trees were providing. However, they couldn’t hide from the amused spectators. In the manner of the highly social Philippines, practically everybody had exited their stifling homes for the relative coolness of the outdoors. Groups of people sat around tables groaning with snacks and beer. Not for the first time, Michael marvelled at the congenial conviviality of the Philippines. It was so different from back home. Work was mostly over for the day, particularly for those lucky enough to have government or teaching jobs, while school was out for the day. Schoolchildren were still trickling home after staying behind for extracurricular activities such as sports or dance practise. Their colourful pink, yellow or blue school uniforms were designed to maximise coolness as much as possible. Girls wore short skirts and shirts with sailor-style flaps on the back, while boys preferred more traditional attire. Michael could not help flushing as a group of teenage girls erupted in hysterical giggles upon spotting them in their rainwear.

Younger children were running around like dervishes. To the casual observer, it appeared that there was no rhythm or order to the frantic activity going on around them. One group was engaged in a tsinelas battle, which basically consisted of throwing their slippers at cans or other people’s slippers. Apparently there were forfeits to be paid for missing. Other kids zoomed around looking for their companions in a tagu-taguan (hide-and-seek) challenge. Several obviously disabled children were playing holen (marbles) and they stopped to stare as the group passed them. Chinese garter was also popular here as well. The participants were attempting to jump over an increasingly high piece of string or rope held by two others. One jumper caught a glimpse of them, stumbled and tripped inelegantly over the line to howls of laughter from his companions.

It seemed that no one was immune to the threesome in their gleaming rainwear. Although some of the more conservative older generations were clearly disapproving, the vast majority of middle-aged and young people found their outlandish apparel a source of great amusement. Erica appeared to know almost everybody along the route. Michael couldn’t get over the way she was laughing and joking with everyone. More than once, they stopped to pose for selfies, much to the merriment of everyone.

Much to their surprise, one young woman actually dashed inside her home and emerged with a clear green plastic raincoat which she hurriedly slipped on before posing for more photos with them against a backdrop of a clear blue sky and bright sunshine.

Despite these distractions, they managed to make it home without any unfortunate accidents.

“Thank you so much for helping me,” Erica beamed. “I really appreciated it. Would you like to come inside for merienda before you go home?”

Jonquil shook her head. “I’d love to, but I have to feed the chickens and other animals before it gets dark. I’ll see you next week though.”

“I understand.” Erica nodded. Almost every household ran chickens or a pig or two out here. “I’m looking forwards to next week so much.”

“Me too! I’ll be so much fun!” Jonquil stepped forward and hugged Erica before farewelling Michael with a wave.

“She’s so nice,” Michael commented while he unlocked the door for Erica. “What were you saying? Did you invite her to our rainwear party next week?”

Erica laughed. “Is that all you can think about? You just want to perve on all your new girlfriends in their plastic pants.”

“Heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy…!” Michael objected. “I never said that.”

“I don’t need to think. I know.” Erica smirked before gasping. “Oh my God… I gotta go … now!” She dashed in the direction of the cabinet.

“Go, go!” Michael teased as Erica inelegantly shed one layer of plastic after another as she hurried in the direction of the comfort room – or bathroom.

Michael sighed with relief as he peeled layer after layer of plastic off before removing his rainboots. “Ugh…” he disgustedly said as seemingly half a gallon of water poured out of each one. Had he really sweated that much during their trip? Thank God Erica had gone out of her way to ensure they were adequately hydrated. He must have consumed almost two litres of water since leaving the restaurant. Michael sighed with relief as he finally relieved himself over an unfortunate group of red ants outside. Hopefully it would discourage them from raiding the kitchen again.

“Feeling better now?” Michael teased Erica upon encountering her outside the bathroom.

“Oh yes… Much.” Erica giggled.

“I hope you didn’t flood the bathroom.”
“Michael!” Erica laughed. “But I came close though. Darling…” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “I’m so horny I could scream. I want you. Now.” Before he had a chance to reply, she grabbed his hand and towed him inside the bedroom.

“Make me happy na.”

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

“I can definitely say that the earth moved,” Erica purred while they relaxed in each other’s arms. “Big time.”

“I can definitely say that our neighbours don’t like us anymore,” Michael chuckled. He glanced meaningfully in the direction of the window they’d left open. “Big time.”

EPILOGUE

“Good morning, my darling Mike…” Erica smiled. “Did you sleep well?”

“Like a log,” he sleepily replied before realising what Erica’s hand was doing.

“Time to wake up,” she giggled.

After being thoroughly woken in the most emphatic manner possible, Michael wrapped his arms around Erica for a long embrace. “What a nice way to start a day,” he softly murmured. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Erica kissed him hard on his mouth. “I’m so happy, my mahal.”

“Why?” Michael asked. “What makes you happy?”

Happily, “Today is the first day of our new lives in plastic. I’m really looking forwards to it, my darling.”

Michael gazed into Erica’s radiant eyes. He couldn’t believe the difference. The transformation from the shy, diffident girl he’d met all those months ago and the outgoing, uber-confident Erica lying in his arms was just unbelievable. He still remembered her utter bewilderment when he’d told her about his thing for plastic. She’d even told him that a raincoat was for the rain. Less than half a year later, Erica was the one pressuring him to wear plastic rainwear every day. Her absolutely amazing, boundless enthusiasm for wearing plastic pants and rainwear was actually so much greater than his that it wasn’t funny.

‘Can I live with this?’ Michael thought. Erica was caressing his back now. He sighed with pleasure as her hands slipped down the back of the plastic playsuit that he was wearing. Michael remembered the countless cold, lonely nights he’d spent by himself back home, wishing he could meet someone who actually enjoyed wearing plastic rainwear. His dreams had come true in spades – and then some. Erica was a plastic pig in the truest sense of the word. His girlfriend wasn’t happy unless she was wearing some item of plastic or another.

‘You wanted this all of your life,’ Michael mutely reminded himself. People like Erica were unicorns. They just weren’t supposed to exist. Plastic fetishism was almost exclusively a male preserve. The vast majority of women just weren’t into raincoats, rubber suits… period. Michael was painfully aware that the opposite sex tended to focus on the emotional aspect of love, rather than the purely physical. It’s why destinations such as Pattaya and Angeles City exist, to satiate the urges of their mostly male visitors. There are, never have been, and never will be any such equivalent Sin cities catering for women. The two sexes are about as alike as Mars and Venus. He gazed into Erica’s lovely eyes. They were soft, lambent pools of love which drew him inwards like a moth to flame. Morning light was flooding through the window, framing Erica’s face in a golden nimbus of light where the sun struck the great dome of plastic tied around her face. She’d been wearing her favourite soft plastic jelly jacket and rainpants all night. Michael inhaled deeply while he held her in his arms. He knew that he would never meet anyone else like Erica, not even during a thousand lifetimes.

“My dearest darling…” Michael murmured. The girl of a thousand dreams had wrapped herself around him like a starfish. Her arms and legs circled his body in a wonderfully sweaty plastic embrace. He could feel his heart ache with the depth of feeling he had for the lovely little child-woman clinging to him as if her life depended upon staying locked together for as long as possible. Perhaps sensing that he was on the cusp of an important decision, Erica didn’t say anything. Instead, she hugged him harder. Michael knew that he could not live without this beautiful sassy girl who’d only entered his life a very few short months ago. It was not even just the plastic either. Bubbly, effervescent Erica was the most easy-going, warm, kind, caring and infinitely loving person whom he’d ever met. Much more importantly, she was so easy to talk to. They could chat about anything and everything. That Erica possessed such a deliciously kinky mind on top of everything else was the icing on a very large cake.

Michael could not think of anyone whom he wanted to be with more than Erica. He’d dreamed being with someone like her for years. Even now, he still hardly dared believe that it was actually happening. So what if she wanted to wear plastic pants and rainwear all day long, every day? For the first time, Michael realised that there was nothing he would like more than spending the rest of his life in plastic rainwear with Erica. Simply thinking about it was already doing terrible things to his groin.

“Erica?” he said.

“Yes, my love?”

“I also can’t wait to spend the rest of my life in plastic with you, my darling.” As the words left his mouth, Michael knew without a shadow of doubt that he meant every word that he said. He really did want this. “Erica, do you remember what you said yesterday? About plastic raincoats being our love language? I really want to share it with you every day.”

“Oh, Michael…” Erica was so surprised with his words that she was momentarily incapable of speech. Her heart was so full that she thought it would burst, while she incredulously studied the earnest features of the man whom she loved heart and soul. “To be honest, I never think you will say that. I really thought you’re not interested.”

“Well, there’s only one way to be absolutely sure I will wear my plastic pantes and raincoat every day,” Michael slowly said.

Erica smiled. “What’s that?” she curiously asked.
“You might have to padlock my plastic pants and rainwear so I can’t take off anything for any reason whatsoever,” Michael replied. “I might not feel like sleeping in my plastic playsuit when it’s hot, so you might have to tie me up hand and foot to prevent unauthorised removal.”

“Oh, my God….” Erica breathed. “I love the way you think.” Suddenly anxious, “Are you sure you want this?”

Michael nodded. “Yes, my darling. I want to be a real raincoat couple. I cannot think of anything I want more than spending the rest of my life in rainwear with you.”

“Me too, my darling…” Erica whispered before kissing him full on his lips. “We are a real raincoat couple now.”

Wow! Truly an epic! That must be a record on here! Taking pvc relationships to a stratospheric pinnacle.

Sbr.and.vinyl wrote: November 22nd, 2024, 12:14 am Wow! Truly an epic! That must be a record on here! Taking pvc relationships to a stratospheric pinnacle.

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it so much - I really appreciate the feedback too. If you think this is good, wait until the sequel.

This is good story but so long!

What a wonderful story! Thank you for your effort in writing Mason

PetreVanClause wrote: November 22nd, 2024, 11:55 am This is good story but so long!

Writing it was so much fun, but it kinda took on a life of its own.

I have written longer stories, but this is not the best format for it