“I don’t feel rejected when you don’t like ketchup.” She wiped her face. “I thought you liked us wearing the same clothes and having a joint birthday party.”
“Sometimes, but not all the time. I need to figure out how tobe a little more independent. To that end, I’ve applied to technical college.” She smiled. “It’s one of the ones you mentioned a while ago. I’m going to study environmental horticulture. I’ll be starting this fall.”
“Really? Oh, darling, that’s wonderful. Do you have to write an essay or send them transcripts? Can I contact your high school for you, or Cal State San Diego? I could...” She inhaled sharply. “That was probably an example of me doing what you said I do.”
“A little, yes.”
“It’s only because I love you so much.”
“I love you, too, Mom. You’re an amazing woman and so supportive. But for the next little bit, why don’t you let me handle things on my own? If I need help, I’ll ask.”
“That’s going to be hard for me.”
“Same here. I’m used to you always stepping in to fix things. Imagine my shock when I have to figure out a solution on my own.”
Cindy nodded, then sighed. “I don’t want to let go. I don’t want you to grow up and not need me.”
“I’ll always need you. You’ll always be my mom.”
“Will you be going to school full-time?”
“I will, so I guess I’m giving notice. Four months’ worth, but still.”
“What about a part-time job?” Cindy asked. “We could figure something out here and—” She pressed a hand to her chest. “My God, it’s a disease.” She smiled. “Shannon, will you be working part-time while you go to school?”
Shannon grinned. “Yes, Mom. I’ll be working with Aaron.”
“How nice for the two of you.”
They both laughed. Cindy leaned forward. “Show me the ring.”
Shannon held out her hand. Her mother sighed.
“It’s beautiful.”
“Yeah, but yours is bigger,” Shannon teased.
Cindy admired her own ring. “Yes, it is, and I like that. Now, did you actually say you don’t want a wedding, or did I hear that wrong?”
“I don’t want much of a wedding.”
“But Shannon, you have to. Every little girl dreams of her wedding day. I’d hate for you to regret not having the memories.”
“Mom, it’s what we want. Neither of us want to deal with a wedding. We’re thinking a park and then the reception at his folks’ house or your house.”
“But you could...” Cindy groaned. “I mean—” She made a strangled sound. “I’m disappointed by your decision, but if it’s what you and Aaron want, then it’s what you should do. Except I always thought I’d be a part of your wedding. You know, all the Mother of the Bride things that happen.”
“I promise when we start having kids, you can do all the grandma stuff you want. But we’re going to get married in a park some afternoon. Nothing formal. No guests, just family. Immediate family.”
“Will you at least let me buy you that princess dress?”
“I found one I like on Amazon.”
Her mother winced. “They sell wedding gowns?”
“Uh-huh.”
“But...” Cindy shook her head. “Okay. If that’s what you want.”
