Sarah
I take one more glance at my costume before running to get the door. Adam is bringing Cailin over before school, so I can help with her hair. I want to make sure I don’t look silly with something out of place.
I open the door, and Cailin’s eyes light up.
“YouareCinderella,” she says in awe.
I pick her up and twirl her around. “So are you. Let’s hurry up and get your hair done, so we can take pictures together.”
After placing her down, I turn to Adam, who’s wearing a cheesy grin.
“Don’t laugh.” I point to him.
He leans in, giving me a kiss. “I’d never laugh. You look amazing. I’ve never had a thing for the Disney princesses, but you might just change my mind.”
I eye him as Cailin yanks me toward the bathroom, so we can do her hair.
As I pull it up into a tight bun, she glances at me through the mirror. “My daddy said you’re his girlfriend now.”
A smile big enough to hurt my cheeks grows on my face. “Did he now? How do you feel about that?”
“I love it! I’m super excited to tell everyone you’re gonna get married.”
I choke on my breath and cough. “Whoa, um … let’s not jump to that yet.” I pause, not wanting to confuse her. “I’m not saying I don’t want to marry your daddy. There’s just a long process to get to that step.”
Her tiny lip pushes out in a pout. “Then, can I tell them you’re his girlfriend?”
I purse my lips together in thought. I don’t want people knowing my personal business, yet with the tabloids, I’m sure people already suspect it, so what’s the harm in making it official?
“Sure, sweetheart. You can tell them I’m dating your daddy.”
I finish the bun, and she jumps up to celebrate.
“Yay! Okay, let’s go take a picture and blow this popsicle stand.”
She runs out of the bathroom, and I notice the flush my cheeks have taken. I close my eyes, enjoying the happiness rushing through me.
I’m his girlfriend.
I head toward the living room where Cailin calls me over.
“Here, let’s stand right here and take the photo.”
Adam holds up the camera as I wrap my arms around her little shoulders, and we take a picture, both dressed up as Cinderella for Halloween.
Cailin runs up to see the photo, and I grab my purse from the counter.
“Everyone ready?” I ask.
“Let’s go!” Cailin opens the door and runs toward my car.
“You’re welcome to come and watch the parade that starts at nine,” I say to Adam.
“Wouldn’t miss it.” He quickly kisses me before placing his hand on my lower back to usher me out the door.
“She also told me she’s going to tell everyone I’m your girlfriend.” I grin at him, and he laughs.
“Well, good. I told her you are, so everyone else should know too.”
