large rings, Megan was almost rolling across the floor with laughter.
“Mom! You gave a grown man a Barbie makeover?”
“Only his feet.
“Did he like it?”
“Not particularly.”
“That’s amazing!”
She dissolved into another fit of giggles.
“What color did you use?”
“Almost every shade. His big toe was hot pink, and I gave the others a lovely assortment.”
“Mom! That’s amazing!”
She selected the brightest bottle and immediately began painting her own toenails. I reminded her about our schedule.
“Careful, sweetheart. We have an early morning tomorrow.”
“Why? Do you have to work?”
“I have a very important meeting.”
“With who?”
“Some people I’ve never worked with before.”
Megan paused to inspect her freshly painted toe.
“Are you nervous, Mom?”
“A little. I’m meeting some people I’ve never worked with before.”
“You’ll be fine. You’re really good at talking to people.”
“That’s sweet of you.”
She held up
her polish bottle with a knowing expression.
“And if anyone’s mean, you know what to do.”
I couldn’t help laughing.
“I don’t think that’s appropriate office behavior.”
“Well, it worked on the airplane!”
I couldn’t argue. After finishing her nails, I tucked her into bed and kissed her forehead.
“Goodnight, my little troublemaker.”
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“Goodnight, Mommy. Good luck tomorrow!”
I turned out the light, smiling. Tomorrow would be interesting.
The next morning, I dressed in my favorite navy-blue pantsuit, brewed strong coffee, and checked my messages. Three were waiting, all related to my ten o’clock meeting. I answered a couple of questions and checked the time.
Megan sat at the kitchen table eating cereal, two oversized toy rings gleaming on her fingers.
“Mommy, you’re going to be late!”
“Actually, sweetheart, I’m right on schedule.”