Page 74 of Power Play

The zipper slid up easily.

Size two.

The number soothed me in a way the mirror refused to.

When I stepped outside, my mother’s entire face changed.

“Oh, Charm.”

Gabriella smiled beside her.

“Turn.”

I turned slowly.

Crystal stood and came closer, smoothing the fabric lightly at my waist.

“You really have gotten tiny.”

Warmth spread through me.

“A two?” she asked.

I nodded.

Her smile deepened. “That is impressive, sweetheart.”

My chest loosened.

Then her gaze traveled upward, and the warmth disappeared before she spoke.

“I’m not sure about the neckline.”

I looked toward the mirror.

“What’s wrong with it?”

“You’ve lost so much through your shoulders.”

Her fingertips rested lightly near my collarbone.

“You need a little tone now.”

My stomach dropped.

Gabriella considered the dress. “It is a strong neckline.”

Crystal nodded. “She’s beautifully slim, but without definition it makes her look a little sickly.”

Sickly.

The word slid beneath my skin.

I crossed my arms unconsciously.

My mother noticed immediately.

“Oh, sweetheart, I’m not criticizing you.”