Day 19/366

"Are you--are you really here, Mom?"  Her throat constricted in anticipation of the mysterious lady's response.  "Wait--you can't be.  What am I thinking?"  A shaky hand touched the tender spot on the back of her head.  She winced.

"Oh, baby girl, there you go again, rushing ahead of the conversation,"  the unbelievable fairy waved her wand to drive home her point, her crowned head tilted in sympathy.

Leslie struggled to her feet, wobbling for just a moment.  "What are you talking about?"

"You, sweetie.  We're here to talk about you."  The tender expression directed her way caused Leslie's eyes to tear up.

"About me?"

"Of course.  I'm here to help you, darling girl."

The pressure in her heart and on her shoulders evaporated, and for the first time in quite a long time, Leslie smiled.

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