New Year’s Eve and the Crystal Ball.  It is the biggest night of all in Pine Valley.  There isn’t a person invited that turns down that invitation.  This year would be special, because instead of celebrating Maria’s memory, they would all be celebrating her return.  Every shop and boutique in town hurried to finish dresses and jewelry requests.  Even those who couldn’t go talked about all the wonderful guests and rumors the night would produce.  It was Pine Valley’s night at the Oscar’s so to speak.  Tonight, would bring about a full circle of life for one family and who knew what else for everyone else.

Bianca stands in front of her mirror.  She turns making sure the blue gown looks right everywhere.  Her mother had offered a day at the beauty parlor to get ready, but she had promised Kendall she would come over and help her get ready when she was ready.  She loves this dress.  It was the one thing she gave in to with her mother.  She let her mother have it designed for her.  It needless to say fit in all the right places.   Not to mention much to her surprise there was a low neckline and a slit up her thigh.  It was a truly exquisite dress.

“Now, if only Maggie likes it.”  She says out loud smiling in the mirror. “I want to tell her how I feel, but I don’t want to lose her.”

“Honey, you have to take chances in life if you are going to be happy.”  Erica offers.

“Oh.  Mom, you look gorgeous.”  Bianca smiles blushing at her mom.

“Thank you darling.  You look amazing and if Miss Stone can’t see that well, then she doesn’t deserve my little girl.”

“Mom.”  Bianca blushes, “You told me not to tell her before.”

“I know.  I just see how much you love her and I see she cares for you so if she doesn’t feel the same way I still think she would still be your friend.  Don’t you?”  Erica stands beside her daughter.

“I…yeah…I just don’t want to have things awkward between us.  It sucks mom.”

“Hmm…sucks…what a word.  Yes, honey I guess it would ‘suck’, but love is always a chance.  Honey, only you know what to do.  Just be happy Bianca…be happy.”  Erica kisses her daughters cheek then rubs lightly to be sure there is no lipstick.