He's still worried, trying to wrap his protectiveness around me.
Me: You worry too much. I'm fine. Actually better than fine. :)
Ten seconds later, I send another text.
Me: You'd be proud of me today. I'm getting so much done.
There's no immediate response, but once again, I tell myself it's okay. He'll write back when he can.
The next client fitting goes just as smoothly. She twirls in the mirror, gasping at how well the dress hugs her waist, and throws her arms around me like I've saved her entire wedding.
Moments like this used to exhaust me. Today, they energize me. I hug her back, imagining a minister saying, "You may kiss your bride," and Red claiming me in front of our friends and families with a kiss so wicked, it should be criminal.
When the fitting ends, I check my phone again. It's after five, but he hasn't responded.
Surely he's out of his last appointment by now?
He's a therapist. People need him.
I need him.
Don't freak out.
Me:Are you still at work?
I walk to the cutting table and start sketching new neckline ideas for the linen collection. I've avoided it all week, but suddenly, the ideas flow freely.
My phone buzzes mid-sketch.
My heart jumps.
Red: Glad you're having a good day. Drink a lot of water tonight.
I laugh, soft and giddy, and take a sip from the bottle on my desk to make him proud. I snap another photo of the water bottle raised in a mock toast and send it.
Me: Hydration achieved.
He doesn't respond. But this time, I don't mind. The high from his last message still warms my skin.
Mom passes by, stopping long enough to watch me draw. She comments, "You're very focused today."
"I'm working," I reply, way too cheerfully.
"You're humming."
"I am?"
She nods slowly. "It's good to see you like this."
Dad appears in the doorway behind her, crossing his arms. "Good day, Blue?"
I push my chair back and tilt my head. "Both of you can stop worrying. And why are you here again?" I ask Dad.
"Checking on my two girls," he says.
I smile. "You can stop worrying."
He nods. "Okay. Why don't your mom and I give you a ride home?"
