Page 7 of Matchmaking the Rival

Chapter Three

Meredith

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"Darling, you're sobusy today. You didn't have to bother," Mom exclaimed on Friday. It was the second time this week I was stopping by with goodies. I loved to surprise my parents.

"But I like to spoil you."

"That's right. You do," Mom said with a shy smile, opening the front door wide. I went in with the small container of fruit, oranges, and grapefruits.

"Can you stay for a cup of coffee?" she asked as we stepped into the living room. Dad was watching the Red Sox with my sister, Everly. This was their last month in this house, as they were downsizing to a one-bedroom bungalow. I knew it hurt to sell our childhood home, but it couldn’t be helped. They couldn’t afford it anymore. My sister and I tried our best to keep this from happening, but it was the best solution.

"I don't have a lot of time before the gala. I need to get ready for tonight."

Mom beamed at me. "Look at you. You're so radiant and happy."

"I am," I said. I’d attended a few black-tie events over the years, so I was really looking forward to this. "It's going to be amazing."

"What will you be wearing?" Mom asked. Everly turned from the television to hear the details as well.

"Oh, I've got a nice red silk dress I keep for special occasions."

Mom pursed her lips. "Something black would look better. It's very flattering on any figure."

I sighed inwardly. Mom meant well, but she always hinted that I should wearflatteringclothes. Whenever she bought me something, it was extremely loose, almost tent sized. I wasn't ashamed of my body and preferred more stylish clothes than the things my mother liked.

My sister, on the other hand, was thin and could wear anything she wanted. When I was younger, I’d always wanted to have a figure like hers, but I was more than happy with my size now. Fat-shaming didn't work on this girl.

"Red looks good on me, Mom," I said with a wink. "I want to make a splash."

“Mom, stop hassling Meredith. She looks great in anything she wears.”

Did I mention how much I loved my sister? Everly was sitting next to Dad, her feet on the couch, one hand on her enormous belly. I smiled at her. I couldn't wait for my niece to be here.

"How are you holding up?" I asked her. Everly looked nothing like me. She was petite, brunette, and had Mom’s slim figure. I loved her dearly and couldn’t wait to hold her baby.

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