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“We’re doing great. I love it.” Chloe spins on the platform that’s surrounded by mirrors.
“Perfect.” The seamstress claps.
“Now, mother of the bride, and maid of honor, how about we do a fitting today as well?”
“Oh, is that necessary?” Mom asks.
“Nope.” The seamstress, Kate, grins. “But it’s fun. I’ll go grab them.”
“Looks like we get to play dress up too,” I tell my mom. She grins and drains her glass of champagne before bouncing over to the changing room, ready for her dress.
Mom and I both try on our dresses, and Chloe insists we stand up on the podium in front of the mirrors with her.
“My beautiful girls.” You can hear the crack of emotion in my mom’s voice. “I love you both so much. I’m so proud of both of you.”
I wait for her to tell me I’m next, that she can’t wait until I’m also walking down the aisle. That’s what she would have done before Merrick. However, the words never come. Just happy tears, words of love, and praise for the women we’ve grown to be.
Having Merrick in my life has changed so much for me. My family doesn’t nag me, and my confidence is growing every day. I no longer feel like the overlooked wallflower. Well, sometimes I do, but less and less, and I’d be a fool not to realize it’s Merrick’s influence.
“How about I treat my girls to lunch?” Mom offers.
“Yes,” Chloe and I reply at the same time, making our mother laugh.
“Where are we going?” Mom asks.
I look at Chloe, and we reply together, “Pizza Town.”
Mom shakes her head, but her smile lights up her face. “Let’s get out of these beautiful gowns and go get some cheesy breadsticks.”
Chloe winks at me, and I nod. We both know Pizza Town is our mom's favorite. If she’s going to buy lunch, it might as well be her favorite. Besides, who doesn’t love pizza?
“If you all don’t have plans tonight, you should come over. I’ll have your dad build us a fire and we can make s’mores,” Mom suggests. “This momma is feeling a little lost knowing her babies are grown women now. Today really put it into perspective for me. I love seeing you both happy, but I miss you both so much.”
I slide my arm around her shoulders, giving her a hug. When I release her, Chloe steps up and does the same.
Chloe’s eyes find mine, and I nod. “I’ll be there,” I answer.
“Us too,” Chloe says, talking about Rodney.
“Your father’s going to be so excited. We were just saying how we hate not getting to see you as often now that you’re both grown and out of the house.”
“Mom, I’ve been living out of the house for years now.”
“It’s been a couple for me too,” Chloe reminds her.
“Hush, you two.” Mom turns to me. “What about Merrick?”
“I’m not sure what he’s got going on tonight. He mentioned going fishing with his brothers, but I’m not sure if that’s still the plan. If not, I’m sure he’ll be there.” He mentioned that he and his brothers talked about going fishing later this evening, but I don’t know if any solid plans were made. Either way, it gives him an out if he needs it.
“I hope he can make it. I’d love to get to know the man who has put the light in your eyes a little better.” She hugs us both before she leaves to go to her car.
“She’s right, you know. There is a light in your eyes that I don’t think I’ve ever seen before.”
“It’s there because everyone has stopped hounding me to find a man to settle down with.” That’s only a very small piece, and I know that. I also know they’re right. Merrick has changed me. I try not to think about what’s going to happen when I have to walk away from him. My heart is going to be crushed. Again, I don’t know if this is love, but I do know there is a piece of that man that I’ll always carry with me. His influence on my life has been impactful, and I have him to thank for helping me come out of my shell and giving me the confidence to grow into the woman that I was meant to be.
“Possibly, but somehow, I don’t think so. That might be some of it, but I don’t think that’s all of it.”
“Hush.” I laugh. “Go home to your fiancé. Tease him with how beautiful your dress is. Better yet, I think I’ll text him later and tell him just that.”
