Page 103 of New Day at the Beach House

Lisa nodded. “That would be fine.”

“Be right back,” Trina said.

Willie headed into the changing room, which was large enough to accommodate four people.

Roxie took a seat right outside in one of the plush pink chairs meant for that purpose. “What are you trying on first, Ma?”

“That mermaid gown.” Willie grunted. “I should have brought a long-line strapless bra. You know the kind I mean?”

“I do,” Roxie said. “Do you even own one of those?”

“No, but I might have to get one. Can’t have the tatas unfettered on the day of. Wouldn’t be Christian.”

Roxie snickered. “I’m sure we can order one on Amazon. Although they might sell them here. They have a lingerie section. Hang on. I’ll go check. I know your size.”

Roxie returned a few minutes later with the bra Willie had requested. She handed it through the curtain.

“Thanks,” Willie said. “This will do nicely.” Not long after that, Willie pulled the curtain back. “What do you think?”

Roxie smiled. “Oh, Ma. Those colors are beautiful on you. It’s a great dress. Definitely too long, but she said they can fix that.”

Lisa reappeared. “If I might make a few adjustments?”

“Sure,” Willie said.

Lisa reached into a nearby basket and pulled out a few plastic clips. She moved around Willie with practiced efficiency, tightening the waistline here, adjusted the straps there, nipping and tucking and when she stood back, the dress looked like it had been made for Willie.

At least from the front. From the back, most of the clips were visible.

Lisa gently turned Willie toward the big mirror. “What do you think?”

Willie smiled. “I probably shouldn’t like the first dress I try on, but I do. I really like it. This might be the one.”

A soft chime sounded, then Trina joined them carrying Willie’s mocha latte. “Oh, Mimi. You look gorgeous.”

Roxie nodded. “You do, Ma. I know it’s the first dress and you should totally try on the others but that one’s a winner.”

Lisa smiled. “Why don’t we add a few little touches to it and really get the whole picture?”

“I’m game,” Willie said.

“I’ll be right back,” Lisa said.

Willie made grabby hands at Trina. “While she does that, let me have my drink.”

Trina brought it over. “Here you go, Mimi. That dress is really you.”

Lisa returned with another small basket. From it she took a hair clip with some crystals, sequins, and a puff of white tulle. She set it on an angle in Willie’s hair. Then she pulled out some long dangly earrings of white and crystal glass beads and clipped them onto Willie’s ears. She gave her a bracelet that matched, too. Then she stepped back. “How’s that?”

Willie stared at herself for a long moment without saying anything. Then she took a breath. “I look like a bride. All I need is a bouquet. And my groom.”

Roxie felt an unexpected surge of emotion. She sniffed as tears built. They were happy tears, though. She hoped her smile reflected that. “I’ve never seen you look more beautiful, Mama.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. You think Miguel will like it?”

“I think he’ll love it.”

Trina nodded, seemingly speechless.

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