Page 127 of Even After This
I journal, I listen to all kinds of music, I draw, I make lists, I reflect, I cry. I take walks through the Broadmoor property, make visits to the zoo, and spend days at the spa being pampered.Sometimes I stare into a fireplace, other times I study the ducks swimming in the lake. And I eat decadent food at the fabulous restaurants.
Always at a table for one.
But every day, without fail, I make space for silence. And wait for something.
“Open up, it’s cold out here.”
As I hurry to grab the door, I glance at my watch. “Prissy?” I take the giant gift basket from her while she removes her coat.
She pats her perfectly molded hair. “Did I miss the beginning? The dresses are the only part that matters about tonight’s show.”
“No, the red carpet coverage hasn’t started yet. The local news is wrapping up.” I blink. “Where are your pj’s?”
She glances down to her clothing. “These are my pj’s.” Decked out in a pale pink silk long-sleeve shirt and pants, she defines Academy Awards Pajama Party. Her feather-tipped, opaque, high-heel slip-ons remind me of a pair of plastic dress-up shoes I stomped around in as a child. Though her feathers are probably bound by diamonds instead of plastic crystals.
I peek through the transparent cellophane wrap of the basket. “You brought reinforcements.”
Various sizes, flavors, and brands of Toblerone, Lindt, and Nestlé chocolates are displayed. The multiple Swiss goodies cause me to smile. Even her chocolate is fancy.
We walk into the den, and at the sight of Spencer and Sally on the red carpet, I rush to put the sweet confections down and grab the remote. “I can’t hear them.”
Glittering from head to toe in a black Versace gown, Sally looks radiant. Spencer isn’t so bad himself, but he is definitely upstaged by his wife tonight.
“Good evening to the beautiful Mr. and Mrs. Dean.” AGood MorningAmericahost greets my friends by amicably shoving amicrophone in their faces. A cheer erupts from the crowd behind them. “I haven’t seen you guys since the Valentine’s Day Make-A-Wish Fundraiser. Sally, you look amazing this evening, but I can’t help but notice a new accessory.” She points to something small and round at the top of Sally’s dress.
I squint.
No way.
Sally smiles wide and proud. “It’s a reward a friend of mine gave me.”
The host leans in and laughs. “This is a sticker.” She looks beyond the camera. “Can we get a close-up? It literally says, ‘I showered today.’”
The camera zooms in to show one of my infamous-now-famous mommy stickers. A cat wearing a shower cap, holding a bar of soap.
“Yes. Being a mom is tough some days. We need stickers too. Shout-out to all the mothers out there.” My friend waves at the fans.
I wave back and giggle. Without taking my eyes off the screen, I sense Prissy standing with me. “I gave those to her.”
“I love it,” the host says, her eye catching something off camera. “And what about this guy? Harlan Holcombe, everyone.”
While the crowd’s roar soars, my heart drops to the floor. Breathing is difficult, and I clutch my chest as he comes into view. Classic black tuxedo. He’s simply beautiful. But I ache for the man who wears jeans and boots.
I feel a strong need to put my hand on the television and touch his face.
“This evening you and Spencer will be presenting the Best Foreign Film award. How does it feel for you guys to be back together?”
“I’m presenting with Holcombe?” Spencer fake glares at Harlan, then looks at his wife. “Babe, let’s go home.” He takes Sally’s hand as if he’s going to lead her off the stage.
The host throws her head back and cackles. “You can’t go now. Your wife showered for tonight.”
“I think I’d rather present the award with Sally.” Harlan runs a hand through his hair. “There’s no telling the last time Spencer bathed.”
The host laughs again. “Harlan, word on the street is that you’ve got plans to headline a unique theater arts concept.”
Harlan leans toward the microphone and nods. “I’ve been brainstorming with several colleagues in the industry about a mentoring program for younger acting professionals. It’s been exciting to talk through the possibilities.”
I grab Prissy’s hand and close my eyes. “Good for you, Harlan.”
