Page 102 of A Me and You Thing
“My baby, my baby,” my mom cries.
“My dear, sweet Quinn,” Claire mumbles over and over. “You’re home, where you belong. It’s going to be okay.”
Once our emotional greeting is over, they hurry me upstairs and excitedly present me with more clothing than I’ve ever owned in my entire life. They’re bursting at the seams with excitement over their purchases. Not a single need was overlooked. Besides everyday wear, there’s pajamas, sweats, undergarments, socks and shoes.
They present me with a new purse with a wallet containing cash, a debit card and a credit card in my name. There’s a new set of keys to include a house key and a car key.
“You two have been busy this morning.”
My mom rubs my back. “Sawyer made most of the arrangements, sweetie. We just picked up everything. He wanted you to feel independent and in control.”
Thoughtful of him. I’m not sure how he managed it, being that I’m dead and all.
Guess it’s official. I’m alive.
“My car?” I ask.
“It’s still in the garage. Sawyer couldn’t bring himself to sell it,” Claire tells me.
Huh. I have everything I need. Just not everything I want.
Claire holds up another article of clothing as if she’s trying to entice me.
I am enticed.
I guess I’ll take one for the team and try on each outfit. Of course, they insist I model for them as well. Then the tags are swiftly removed and the clothing is hung in my closet for me. It’s the most entertainment I’ve had since I’ve been home.
Still, my heart is heavy.
“Try this one on next. When I saw this white sundress, I just knew you’d look beautiful in it, Quinn.”
Claire hands me a gauzy and feminine summer dress, the sort of thing that’s perfect for a walk on the beach with the man you love. When I emerge from the bathroom, she says, “I was right. You’re such a delicate beauty.”
“Just stunning, my daughter. That dress was made for you.” Mom studies my expression, and I know she senses my worry.
I stare at myself in the mirror. I’m too thin, too pale, and my eyes look too big for my face. The sadness in my heart makes me look almost haunted.
“What is it, Quinn? What’s wrong? You don’t seem happy.” Mom knows me too well.
When my bottom lip quivers, Claire touches my shoulder. “Oh, sweetheart, whatever is the matter?”
“I... I don’t belong here anymore.” My voice is weak, timid. “Sawyer has a new life.”
“I think it’s time for a heart to heart. What do you think, Charlotte?”
“Past due. C’mon, let’s get some food in you. Then we can talk. A full stomach always makes everything better.”
Spoken like a true mom.
I’m escorted down the stairs, still wearing my sundress, barefoot, and feeling like a waif.
Claire motions to the backyard. “Let’s eat outside on the deck. It’s a beautiful day.”
I’m craving sunshine on my skin. “Sounds good.”
Mom and Claire set up an amazing lunch they purchased at the local deli. I feel so spoiled and pampered. Moms are the best. We linger over our lunch and engage in easy small talk. After we’ve eaten, I sit back in my chair and breathe in the fresh air. I’ve always loved our backyard. There’s now a swing set and fort with a slide gracing the lawn. I bet the girls love it.
Finally, Mom asks, “What’s the matter, Quinn? I know you need to talk. We’re here to listen. This isn’t an easy adjustment, but you’re not alone.”
