image by Joyce La Fave

 

The Parasol

Gene Marshall dug through her jewelry box, searching for the perfect accessory to go with her dress. After all, being one of Hollywood's leading ladies for a few years now, she was well acquainted with both real and costume jewelry and knew very well how to make the most of both. So why was it that she just couldn't find what she looked for? Maybe because she was now just Katie Marshall, attending the bridal party of her childhood friend, Suzanne, in Cos Cobb, Connecticut. Suzanne had planned this bridal garden party knowing the weather would cooperate and that Katie would have a few days from her grueling Hollywood schedule to spend with her. And Katie hadn't let her down -- she had helped Suzanne organize the party and select the decorations and flowers, all the while chatting and giggling just as they had when they were little. But now, dressed for the party in a lovely ivory silk dress embroidered with what seemed like all the flowers in Suzanne's garden, Gene just couldn't find the necklace she thought she had brought to wear. Well, she would have to go without. After all, the dress was a stunning creation with its shirred bodice and full skirt; it would almost be a shame to add more to it. As Gene stood there in front of the mirror, Suzanne burst in the room, cheeks flush and out of breath. "You must have this, I just found it and it's perfect!" she said in between breaths. In her hand she held out a beautiful ivory silk parasol. "It was my gran's and I remember her using it to protect herself from the sun. She always had the most beautiful skin, just as you do, and when I saw your dress, I immediately thought of gran's parasol. I want you to have it as a memento of this party." Gene was touched with Suzanne's kindness and generosity. She gave Suzanne a hug and took the delicate parasol. Of course, this would be the perfect accessory to her dress.

Storyline courtesy of Vera