She kissed me again and got into the limo. I
watched it go off and then went back inside. Soon
after, guests began to leave.
I heard Momma call my name and saw Tony
and her coming down the stairway together. Momma's
heels clicked on the marble stairs. How worldly and
confident she appeared as she sauntered down arm in
arm with Tony. She was wearing her black wool crepe
suit trimmed with a mink collar and cuffs. From
beneath her jacket peeked a white chiffon blouse that
glittered. In contrast to all this darkness, Momma's
face was dazzling to behold. She seemed a diamond
set against black velvet.
Tony wore a black leather jacket and a bright
white scarf. Just like Momma, he appeared fresh and
alert. I imagined they were both still buoyed by the
day's excitement and the excitement yet to come.
They both looked so young and alive and so very
happy together.
"Can you believe it's over?" Momma asked.
"You are now looking at Mr. and Mrs. Tony
Tatterton. How do we look together, Leigh?" She
squeezed herself up against Tony.
"Wonderful," I said, in as excited a voice as I
could manage, but Momma wasn't satisfied. Her smile
wilted.
"Well, we're off. You have everything you need
and need to know. I wish I could be here with you
Christmas morning when you open your presents, but
I know you understand."