A Scare

Even though Ciara wanted to feel terrible, the joy on Mary’s face was enough to quell whatever ill feeling she might be getting. They would share a few light drinks before Mary returns to the hospital.

“Don’t think all is well now,” Samuel whispered into Ciara’s ear. His voice was very cold, and he probably mistook the smile on Ciara’s face for acceptance; she was merely trying to sustain Mary’s happiness.

Ciara’s comeback retort was just on the tip of her finger when Mary voice filtered to her ears. “Come darling, let us take some pictures. It might be the first and only family picture we would have.”

“Mom, please do not sound that way,” Ciara started to say, but Mary waved her off.

Ciara and Samuel stood behind Mary. They did not even realize that Mary had hired a private photographer. When Mary saw the surprise on both the faces of Ciara and Mary, she giggled like a happy teenager and said, “You did not think that a wedding would hold between you two and I would allow this moment b