“We need to give her back.” “What?” Incredulous, I blurted out. “What did you just say?” Claire drew her arms closer to her chest and crossed them even more tightly.
The scarcely audible words, “I don’t want this anymore, Simon,” came out of her mouth. “Everything is being ruined by her! My paperwork, books, clothing, and even my bridal gown.
Were all destroyed by her. “What do you mean?” With a furrowed brow, I inquired. Claire exhaled sharply and rubbed her face as if to remove the tension that was holding her back.
“Earlier, I had it out. I suppose I was experiencing nostalgia. Simon, Sophie lighted up as she entered while I was holding it. She begged to touch it and referred to it as a princess outfit.
The notion made my heart hurt. It stung to think about the image of an inquisitive little girl getting excited about something so basic and enchanting. Claire said, “That’s not the problem,”
Her voice rising in exasperation. “Her hands were covered with paint, which is the issue. I’m not even sure how I missed it. However, as soon as she touched the cloth…”
