snapshot #13

“Hello,” the designer smiled once reaching the microphone. “My name is Caroline Fletcher and I designed the second Bootiful line for all ladies of all sizes. The first one was just as much of a success as the second. I hope you have enjoyed your evening and I look forward to seeing all of you again. My models and I had a fun time working on this project. Because of you, we are able to continue working on this project. We thank you for that.” 

Liz, the girl with auburn hair, shuffled her feet forward. “I understood what you went through ‘cause want to be a ballerina. The instructor told me to lose a few pounds before I could join the academy.” She started to panic, voice rising and hands flying. “I-I applied for fat camp but they rejected me and I went to the gym but I wasn’t old enough for a membership or a personal instructor. So I went bulimic.”

Camera flashes started up again and Caroline felt a blur of anger fill her. “Stop taking pictures, please.” she pleaded softly. Her eyes turned to Liz’s once more. “You’ve stopped now right? Please tell me you’ve stopped.”

Liz beamed. “I haven’t puked in a year. I mean, I haven’t forced myself to puke. ‘Cause obviously everyone will puke every once in a while because of food poisoning and – oomph.”

 A pair of arms wrapped themselves tightly around the smaller girl, a proud look adorned on her face. “I am so proud of you.” Caroline whispered, hugging the life out of Liz. Tears had threatened to spill over and the squeezing of Liz’s hands around her waist made them pour.

“It was all because of you.” Liz said into her ear. “Thank you for teaching me how to love myself. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.”

“No,” Caroline pulled away. “Thank you.”