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Her Day

I awake refreshed. Different. Smog-filled thoughts and feelings are gone. The mirrored image reflected as I dress for work decreases my desire to stay home in bed. Wrinkly, spotty, shadowy lines have been replaced with taut, smooth, even skin. An old face was replaced with something youthful.

Is that possible? Confidence replaces doubt. The usual dread of interacting with work acquaintances is gone. I tell myself as I walk out the door, the woman I saw reflected back, the one I envied, the one I was jealous of, is me.

Glass heels bring me to the brick-and-mortar that pays my bills. My arms sway as I make eye contact with my workmates. I flash a broad smile that is rarely seen. They respond to my positive energy and are drawn to me like a beam of light.

“Hi everyone,” I say, with a radiant smile.

I turn my attention to the quiet, tall handsome guy in our department.

“Good morning Waaizh,” I call him by his given name, not Wally, the made-up one everybody decided was easier to say.

“Good morning,” he says, eyebrows raised, a smile directed at me. “How are you today?” he asks with genuine interest.

“Feeling like me,” I say pointing to myself. “I'm taking work home to catch up with smart guys like you,” I hear myself flirt. “I need a change though. You guys still go out after work on Fridays?”

He seems taken aback that I inquired, but in a good way. I’m surprised too since I usually feign interest for fear of rejection.

“We’ll be going out after midnight tonight. Would you like to come with us?” He asks me like it was his idea all along. I allow him to think so.

"I'd love to come," I say, unconcerned about the midnight hours.

I check my makeup in the ladies' room. My reflection bounces back a picture of youth, fearlessness, happiness, and a desire to be with people.

I’m Cinderella. This is my day, and tonight will be my night.