Checkmate

31

"Don't freak out. Fiona just arrived. I'll be on my way soon," I said into the phone as I opened the door for the babysitter.

Greeting her with a smile, I motioned to the backyard where Sam currently played. She nodded and went to put down her stuff while I made my way upstairs.

"You better be. The limo is already on its way," Sephora chided.

I rolled my eyes.

Sephora went into full-blown control freak mode on her birthday. I wouldn't be surprised if she had some undiagnosed OCD because this woman's attention to detail is astounding.

"I'll be with you in thirty minutes tops."

Reluctantly, she sighed, "Fine, I'll be stalking you on Zenly."

That earned her another eye roll before I ended the call, shaking my head.

Stepping in front of the mirror, I took a moment to admire the gorgeous woman looking back at me.

   With a sweetheart neckline, the dress showcased just enough cleavage. A long slit on the left showed off my long, toned leg. The silk, yellow fabric caressed my brown skin with a soft touch. My makeup was light, some highlights shimmered on my cheekbones and my lips were outlined with a brown liner, accentuating my two-toned lips.

I looked amazing.

To think only a few hours ago I smelt like detergent, barefoot and sweaty, it was a big boost in confidence to go from Mom mode to sexy seductress. I liked it.

Grabbing my gold clutch after I slipped on black, Tom Ford heels, I headed downstairs, ready for a night of celebration with my girls.

At the end of the stairs, Sam stood, eyes wide as he looked me over.

I smiled knowingly and cocked my head when his gaze remained focused on my hair.

"What?" I queried, with a nervous laugh.

"Your hair is very shiny," he said with a pensive pout.

I chuckled at his remark.

   This little boy was very observant. I remembered the first time I got a wig installed. It had streaks of blond and the curls were voluminous. To say he was confused would be an understatement considering I'd just done my big chop at the time.

I walked down the last few steps and pulled him against me. Cradling his head against my stomach, I bent over to kiss the top of his head.

"Be good to Fiona alright?"

He nodded vigorously and flashed me a cheeky smile.

"Fiona, I'm letting you in charge," I called out halfway to the door.

"Have fun, Kim. You look amazing," she replied and I grinned at her compliment.

"Thank you," I said when Sam appeared in the entry wait, a sad glint in his eyes.

"Why can't I go to the party? Sephora came to my birthday party."

"Oh sweetie, tonight is for adults only. You see how you have sleepovers sometimes with your friends?"

Gazing up at me, he nodded, his frown ever so present.

"Well, tonight is for us. I'm sorry your dad couldn't stay with you today.

But I promise you'll get your night with him next time."

"And remember, Sam, I got you caramel popcorn," Fiona chimed in.