Under the Influence

Chapter 72

Kyle texted me like he promised, providing an address for the wedding dress store. Maybe the store was new, but no exact location was popping up, so I assumed we would find it in the area.

I held Amalia's hand as we crossed the street to find our destination. I wasn't seeing anything, so we walked around the block. "Kleinfield" was the only wedding store in sight.

Kyle FaceTimed me right when I was about to turn around to walk a different direction.

"Hey Mia."

"Kyle, I don't see any stores. Kleinfield is the only store here."

He looked at me, with a wide smile on his face.

"You didn't."

"I did."

"Kyle!"

"Baby, you deserve the best forever and ever, okay? Please, enjoy it."

"Mimi, can I see Kyle?"

"Of course, sweetie."

I let Amalia hold my phone.

"Kyky!"

"Hi sweetie! I miss you so much."

"I miss you too. I wish you were here, but I am having so much fun with Mimi."

"That's wonderful. You are going to have so much fun looking at the fancy dresses. Pick out the prettiest one for Mia, okay?"

"Only the prettiest for my mommy! Love you, daddy!"

"I love you too, Amalia."

She gave the phone back to me and Kyle's eyes were tearing up.

"You told her?"

"She asked, I couldn't help it. Are you mad?"

"No, baby. I'm so happy right now."

I was just about to respond when I saw three figures coming towards Amalia and I. But these weren't just any three figures, it was my mom, Mavy and Celeste!

My mouth opened in shock.

"Kyle, you flew them out too?"

"Yes. Now find your dream dress! I love you."

"I love you most! Thank you. For everything."

"Always."

My mom and sister hugged me first, while Celeste waited by the side.

"I can't believe my baby is getting married," my mom said.

"I can't believe you guys are here!"

"Believe it, baby," Mavy said.

"Hello dear," Celeste said, pulling me in for a hug.

"It's nice to see you again."

"The pleasure is mine. I can't wait to find you a dress."

"Me too. I actually have someone very special for you to meet."

Amalia had hidden herself behind my leg, holding tightly onto my pants.

"Amalia, sweetie, it's alright. This is my mom, Debbie and my sister, Mavy. And this is Kyle's mom, Celeste. Everyone, this is Amalia."

"Hi," Amalia said shyly, hugging my leg continuously.

I lifted her up in my arms, but she just cuddled into my neck.

I think it was difficult for her to meet so many people after all of the heartache she's experienced. Amalia had met many families from a very young age, but no one was ready to take on the challenges of her heart condition. Because of this, I think it left her scarred. Meeting new people you think could be your family, and then that thought being ripped away repeatedly. This little girl deserved so much more.