My Heart's Memory

Annie

On the drive over to the park I feel butterflies in my stomach. They must have escaped the book's pages and invaded my insides because I can't stop shaking.

"Relax," Noah says placing his hand on top of mine.

I'm wearing a blue summer dress, as I was told this is her favorite color.

"I'm so nervous."

"It's going to be okay. I've updated Emma and Chris on the procedure you went through, and what they should expect. They're really nice people and Annie can't wait to see you again."

As we walk up to the playground, Emma and Chris stand up to meet us. Emma hugs me right away. "I'm so glad to see you again," she says with a kindergarten teacher smile.

"Hi!" Chris hugs me as well, not minding the more than foot difference in our height.

"The kids are playing. They haven't seen you yet." He whistles at them, getting their attention and a 7-year old-boy waves to us.

He uses the slide to get to the floor, leaving his sister at the top. "Come, on," he says. And with open arms and attentive eyes waits for her to lean forward. Gaining speed as she makes her way to him, giggling the whole time. I watch them as they make their way toward me, hand in tiny hand.

She looks small but not fragile. With black straight hair, blue overalls and a wide smile. She gets closer and I see her single dimple and her bright brown eyes.

"You're beautiful," I say as she stands before me.

"Tali!" She yells. And I crouch down to hug her.

"Look at what I brought." I hold out her book and she squeals.

"Mine?" She tilts her head and looks right through me.

"Yes, it's for you," I whisper. Tears fill my eyes.

"She remembered gift!" She yells at her parents.

"I remembered," I say, with a knot in my throat.

"Don't cry," she looks at me concerned and places her hand on my face.

"They're happy tears." I give her a big smile and she does the same.

"Let's go play."

I stand up and her little fist scrunches up the bottom of my dress as she drags me toward the playground.

I don't remember her.

But I love her.