Darlene walked into the den dressed in the royal-blue Versace gown she’d borrowed from Layla. Brad and all the kids were munching on popcorn and glued to the television. “Wow.” Brad sat taller, raising an eyebrow. “I think you better just stay home tonight. This little town isn’t ready for you, Dar.” Darlene spun around, showing off her backless dress and hair pulled into a French twist, feeling more elegant than she surely was with her long drop rhinestone earrings. “So I look okay?” “Uh, yeah.” Brad’s eyes were fixed on her. “You look gorgeous.” Chad handed the popcorn bowl to Grace. “Mom. That’s just wrong. Moms shouldn’t look like that.” “Be quiet, Chad.” Ansley walked up to her mother to have a better look, then whispered, “I think you look like a princess.” Grace joined Ansley beside them. “Mom, you look beautiful.” “That settles it,” Brad said with a mouthful. “You’re staying home.” “Ha, ha.” Darlene picked up the small evening purse she’d found on sale last week.
