At noon, I find Mom in the showroom, reviewing samples for the upcoming trunk show. She's in a crisp white blouse and tailored trousers, her hair twisted up, a pencil holding it together. She looks up when I approach, her smile automatic and warm. "Hey, sweetie, what do you think?"
I glance at the designs. "Looks great. I need to ask you something." The words come out steadier than I expect.
She sets the swatch book aside. "Of course."
"I want to have dinner tomorrow, just Dad, you, and me. The rooftop at Alinea would be nice," I add.
Her eyes soften. "That sounds perfect. Any special occasion?"
I shake my head. "I just thought it would be nice. And..."
She tilts her head. "And?"
"I can tell you about some things I'm learning in therapy," I state, my heart racing faster.
Her face turns serious. "Sure. Seven thirty? I'll confirm with your father."
"Seven thirty is perfect."
She stares at me.
I point at the clothes. "These are really good."
"Yeah?"
I nod "Yes. I made a dress earlier today. I think it might fit in the collection well."
"Well, bring it here," she chirps, her face lighting up.
"Alright." I go back to the design room, pull the dress, then take it back to Mom. "What do you think?"
"Oh, Blue! This is perfect!" Mom gushes, putting the dress on the hanging rack, then stepping back. Her gaze darts down it, then she reaches for the pocket and drags a finger over the hidden edge. "This is so smart and in right now!"
"Thanks!"
Mom slides the embellished gold zipper down the cleavage, boasting, "This is sexy. Showstopper! Great work, sweetie!" She steps closer, picks it up, then holds it against several of her pieces, tilting her head in different directions while peering closer.
The hairs on my neck rise, and goose bumps pop out on my skin. When Mom gets that look, she's making decisions.
She spins, beaming, "I'm adding it to the grand finale for the final piece!"
I open my mouth, unable to speak. The last item on the runway is the one everyone will be talking about, and I've only gotten one of my works in a show before.
She softly laughs. "The look on your face is priceless right now."
"Um...is this a joke?"
Her face falls. "No. I wouldn't do that. And this piece is extraordinary!"
Pride and excitement light me up. I cautiously ask, "Is this a definite?"
She nods, wiggling her eyebrows. "Yep! Done deal!"
"Yes!" I practically shout, tossing my arm high in the air.
Mom hangs the dress on the rack and wraps her arms around me. "I'm so proud of you! Get ready for lots of interviews!"
I need to tell Red!
