by Roya Carmen
It does.
I’m happy I still fit into my favorite dress. But on the other hand, I’m a little depressed. I’ll probably never get to wear it again. Let’s face it—my life is not exactly full of charity balls and glamorous events. Gabe and I don’t get out much—our idea of a date night is a hearty meal at the local family restaurant and a movie, or perhaps the occasional dinner with friends.
“Why do you look so sad,” Claire asks, a dash of concern in her sweet voice.
Because Mommy has no life.
I smile to reassure her. “I’m not sad, Claire. It’s just…I’m probably never going to wear this dress ever again.”
She looks at me like I have three heads. “You’re wearing it right now, silly.”
I laugh at her. She has a way of making me giggle, and right now, my life is wonderfully perfect—I have her and Chloe, and Gabe.
“You’re right, Claire,” I pipe up. “I am wearing it. We should do something special. We’re all dressed up.”
“How ’bout a tea party in my room?”
I smile. “Sounds wonderful.”
“So tell me, Mirella,” Claire starts. “How have you been?” she asks, her sweet voice laced with pomp and circumstance.
Her expression makes me laugh. “Why, I am just divine, Claire. Thank you for asking.”
I sit at the tiny yellow table in my vintage pink chiffon dress, nibbling on animal crackers and drinking iced tea. Maybe it wouldn’t be such a bad idea to wear the dress somewhere—perhaps Gabe and I could go see a show—it could be a lot of fun. I should speak to him about it.
And there it is…that “defining moment” wrapped up cleverly into an “ordinary moment.”
What if we hadn’t been in that closet playing dress-up? What if Claire hadn’t picked out that dress? What if it hadn’t fit? What if…
Copyright © 2015 Roya Carmen. All rights reserved.
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank my amazing husband and kiddoes. Thanks to my hubby for taking me camping and encouraging a love of nature. It served as inspiration for this novel.
I would also like to thank all my amazing readers. Thank you so much for reading all my gushy stories. Many thanks to all those who have shared my books, whether it be by telling a friend, writing a review, or sharing on social media. Thank you to all the wonderful bloggers who have supported The Ground Rules Trilogy, The Riverstone Series and One Week. I was delighted when One Week was a success and everyone started talking about it and spreading the word. Also, thanks to all those who have written reviews. You have no idea how much that means. Reviews are crucial and word of mouth is key. Without all of you, I wouldn’t be here.
Again, thank you to my wonderful Beta readers, Chancy, Geneva, Melissa, Veronika, and Louise. You gals are all amazing, and good friends. Thank you to Emily for your wonderful feedback and editing, and also your friendship. I can’t thank you all enough. I’m very lucky to have you.
And finally, thank you to all my book friends!