Page 3 of Little Dark Deeds
“When I see Tiffany, I’m going to give her a piece of my mind,” my mother huffed.
“Maybe she’s running late.”
I’d said the words, knowing it wasn’t like Tiffany to be late—ever.
And given I’d been so caught up in memories of the past, I hadn’t been paying close attention to the time.If I had, I would have realized she was over an hour late.
“I’ll try her cell phone,” I said.
“There’s no time.You have a mere six minutes before the ceremony begins.Time to whip things into high gear.”
I sighed and slipped on my two-inch heels.Facing the mirror, I adjusted the white-and-gold iridescent leaf and floral headpiece pinned to the side of my head.Then I reached for my lipstick, a lovely neutral shade that added a tinge of color without becoming a focal point.
Certain the final touches I’d added were enough, I looked at my mother for approval.Based on her expression, I wasn’t sure I’d get it.
“What now?”I asked.“Today is supposed to be a calm, joyful day.You’re stressing me out.”
“Oh, dear.I’m sorry.I just want everything to be perfect.You deserve it.You deserve it all.”
“Everythingisperfect.”
Aunt Laura poked her head into the room, smiling as she looked at me.“Are you two about ready?”
“As ready as we’re ever going to be,” my mother replied.
I stood, and my aunt pressed a hand to her lips, saying, “You’re the most beautiful bride I’ve ever seen.Your father would have been so proud.”
At the mention of his name, tears formed in my mother’s eyes.“Taken too soon.I always thought he would be the one walking you to the altar.It surprised me when you didn’t ask Harvey.”
I threw my arms around my mother.“I love Harvey.I couldn’t ask for a better stepfather.But as soon as Giovanni proposed, I knew it was you I wanted by my side today.”
She leaned back, swishing a hand through the air.“As much as I cherish these rare sentimental moments of yours, not another word, darling, or all three of us will end up with streaks of makeup all over our faces.”
I nodded and looped my arm around hers.
She lifted a finger, declaring, “Now, let’s get you married!”
