Love Me Curvy

Part 5 - Revised

Erin

I slow the car to a stop in front of the red lights. Hands on the steering wheel I glance beside me at the bag that contains two small gifts. I spent a good hour at the store trying to find the perfect birthday present for Kale. I might be a teacher but when it comes to buying personal gifts for children, I'm lost.

There were no children on my side of the family, so buying gifts for kids was rare. After pondering on what to buy, I finally settle for a box of cars and a book that I thought Kale might like. All I had to do now was place them in the gift bag for tomorrow.

I slowly press down on the gas pedal as the light turns green. As of right now, I am heading to my parents' house. Just like I promised Grace, I agreed to have dinner with my family at least once a week. After Grace came to visit me I sat down and thought about myself neglecting my family.

The last time I saw them was a month ago when mom and Grace visited me during their weekend off. I don't recall the last time I saw my father and it's been half a year since I last stepped foot in my parent's home. Two years ago, when I left to be on my own, I never looked back.

Maybe it's the fact that whenever I'm around my perfect family, I realized how imperfect I am. Or that I have disappointed my parents and I don't want them to think less of me. Don't get me wrong I love my family, but sometimes it's almost painful to be near them.

That's why it took all the courage I could muster to drive to their house right now. It's been three weeks since I've promised Grace I would go home and finally, today, I'm sticking to that promise.

Going up the long driveway I saw in the distance my parent's home, it sat on top of the large hill sparkling with lights. It was just the right size for our family, a two-story four-bedroom home. So many childhoods memories flash through my mind as I approach the cozy and welcoming building. Creeping up the driveway I see Grace waving ecstatically.

Parking the car and stepping out, I was about to close the door when Grace pulls me in for a smothering hug. Chuckling, I pat her back softly, "I'm happy your excited to see me but at least let me close the door first."

"Sorry," she mumbles pulling back.

Slamming the door shut I turn back and extend my arms. "Did you want a proper hug this time?"

She beams siding between them. "I'm glad you could make it."

"Me too," I reply, "Now let's go inside, I'm starving."

"That's great because mom made all your favorite dishes today, spaghetti and meatballs, fried chicken, and her famous mac-n-cheese you love so much."

My mouth waters just thinking about what awaits me. I have been trying my best to eat better but at times like this, it's so hard to be good.

"Why did she make so much food?" I ask as we head into the house.

"Mom got a little excited when I told her you were coming over for dinner today."

"Of course, how can I not be excited." My head snaps up towards the voice. Before me stood a blond hair beauty with a soft smile and sparkling blue eyes. It's hard to believe she would be turning 48 in a couple of months, she didn't look a day over 35.

"Mom." I walk towards her. I lightly kiss her right cheek before giving her a hug.

Pulling back from the embrace she smiles warmly. "Dear, I'm so glad to see you." She scans me over thoroughly. "Did you lose weight?"

I shake my head in denial. I've had tried my best to eat better and I might have lost just a few pounds, but it made no difference. I'm still the same and as far as I know, my pants are as snug as ever. "Nope, not that I know of."