With that, he sat back down at the kitchen table and, through all of the commotion, finished sipping that cup of pretty delicious coffee…
Chapter Twenty-Five
…One year later
Kim fluffed her ivory sundress and tilted her sunhat over one eye, just so. It was a beautiful day for a wedding. Several of her friends from New York had flown in to witness the joyous occasion. She and Jack had decided that having the ceremony on his property would be ideal, and she was thrilled when Askuwheteau, who was also an ordained minister, agreed to do their vows. Her mother entered the master bedroom that she and Jack now shared, with tears in her eyes.
“Oh, Mom, don’t cry.” Kim outstretched her arms, encouraging Angelique to come close for a much-needed embrace. “If you cry, I’ll cry too.” They both laughed as they hugged, wiping each other’s faces with a delicate hand.
“You look so beautiful, honey.” Mom stepped back and gave her the once over. “Just… amazing.”
“Thank you. So do you.” The mother of the bride wore a tangerine satin jacket and skirt, and her hair was tucked behind one ear, showcasing small diamond hoop earrings. “I wish… I wish Dad was here to see this.” Kim blinked back tears.
Her mother embraced her once again, squeezing tight.
“I wish he was here too, sweetheart.” They were quiet for a bit, and then her mother shot her a smile, tinged with sadness. “Well, I know you and Jack will be headed off to your honeymoon in Aruba in a couple of days, but I would like to get together with you two soon in New York. God knows I have more time on my hands now.” She poked fun at herself.
Mom had lost her license to practice law in the state of New York for unethical and illegal practices, and other charges, too. She felt lucky regardless, telling Kim that she was blessed for not receiving any jail or prison time. The judge had been lenient on her considering the circumstances. Thankfully, Mom’s nest egg was already established, and she’d want for nothing.
“Funny you should mention that. Jack was just telling me how he wanted to see where I grew up. We’ll definitely make a trip of it soon. How’d your conversation with Walt go?”
Kim had finally broken the news to her mother that not only had she seen and spoken to Walt, mom’s first love, but he was now a friend and would be attending the wedding with his wife. She didn’t wish for it to be awkward, so she told her months in advance.
“I met his wife. Nice lady… a bit ditzy and her hair is… interesting, but she’s nice all the same.” The shade! “And my conversation with Walt went fine, honey. Just catching up. He’s sitting on the bride’s side, so I guess I’ll see him at the reception, too, since the seating chart is similar. He still looks great. Retirement suits him.” A hint of sorrow flashed in Mom’s eyes, but she quickly regrouped.
“How are you holding up, Mom?” She ran her hand up and down her mother’s shoulder. It had been a difficult time for both of them, in more ways than one.
“I’m doing great, sweetheart. Missing you and your father, but I am getting involved in different programs in the city, meeting new friends, and going to grief counseling. I felt sorry for myself for so long, but now I’m finding my strength again. Kimberly, I am so, so proud of you.”
“Thank you, Mom.” She wiped the moisture from her cheeks.
“Like I told you, if you’re happy and healthy, what more can a mother ask for? You’re marrying your true love, just started your own dance school for children, and your baked goods are being sold all over town. I never got how you could eat all of those carbs and maintain your figure!”
“Mom, trust and believe, I have to work out twice as hard. I know you recall that incident with me and Dad’s birthday cake. I have a thing for sweets. Anyway, I’ve been experimenting with intermittent fasting, and it seems to help. I love fitting into a tight dress, but I love pie more!”
They cackled like two hens, and it felt like old times.
“Well, I’m jealous, and no matter what weight you are, you will always be beautiful. My figure definitely isn’t what it used to be, so I was thrilled when I found out you’ve been experimenting with keto cookie recipes. Chocolate chip ones? Let me be your taster. I’m all in!” They both burst out laughing again.
Mom got quiet then, her expression solemn. “You’re simply remarkable. I look up to you. Kimberly, the roles are now reversed. You’re my role model. The love I have for you has no bounds.” Mom kissed her cheek, then walked towards the door. “Don’t keep your guests waiting too long. The show must go on.” She winked, waved, and walked away.