“There you go!” Her mother shook her head as a sentimental smile played on her lips. “I don’t think you’ve ever looked more stunning.” “Thank you.” Valerie’s gaze met her reflection in the floor-length mirror, and she knew what her mother said was true. Even she had to agree she looked beautiful, with her dark hair curled and pinned up and her sleeveless, sky blue gown showcasing her figure. She almost didn’t recognize herself. Gone was the overweight, shy girl she had been less than a year ago, and in her place was a mature woman who moved with quiet grace. She only wished the wisdom in her eyes didn’t look so much like sadness and lessons learned the hard way. Her mother placed her hands on Valerie’s shoulders. “Let’s go show your father.” Valerie nodded and followed her out into the hallway, where she was made to wait while her mother all but skipped down the carpeted steps. She closed her eyes and strained to hear her parents murmuring in the living room.
