Changes for the Better

8/9/2019 Changes for the Better

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Chapter 1

Sometimes, it feels like nothing in life will ever change. You thinkeverything's just gonna stay the same, but when things change, boy, do theyever?! I always thought my life would never change. It was just gonna be me,Mom, Dad, and my friends, forever. I was happy, but then, everything suddenlychanged.

My name is Allison Matthews, but everyone calls me Allie. I'm sixteen,and this is my story.

Mom and I were really close. Every problem I had, she understood. Shealways knew what to say. She was my best friend. I miss her so much!

I bet you're probably wondering how I lost my mom. Well, let's rewind thestory to shortly before she died. I want you to get to know what kind of a personshe was.

I was still only fifteen. I was on the phone with my boyfriend, Jalen. Wewere just flirting. "Shut up!" I laughed. "Oh, my God, you're so sweet!" I started

blushing. "Okay, I'll see you then. Bye." I hung the phone up as my mom camein to say good night. "Hey, Mom."

"Hey, Honey. Who was that?""Jalen. He asked me out for this Friday. He wants to take me to this

awesome restaurant!""Have a good time. I just came in to say good night.""Good night, Mom.""Night, Honey." She kissed my nose. "I love you.""I love you, too."The next day, Dad and I were making dinner. Mom had not come home

yet, which is unusual, because she's usually home before dinner.

"I wonder where Mom is," I said."I don't know," Dad replied."This is weird. She's usually not working this late.""Yeah, and she would normally call first.""I hope she's okay.""Nah, don't worry. She'll be fine."While we were eating, the phone rang. Dad was a little irritated. He hates

it when the phone rings during a meal. "Damn," he muttered as he reached for the phone. "Hello? Yes. Where is she? What?! Oh, my God! Is she okay?!"He sighed, trying to hold back tears. "Okay, thanks. Bye." He hung the phoneup.

I knew something was wrong. "What's wrong?""That was the police.""Is Mom alright?"Dad hesitated. "She was in an accident.""What?!""Apparently, some idiot was driving too fast, and he slammed into Mom's

car."I tried to be brave. "What about Mom?"



"She's gone."My strive to be brave and strong didn't work. "Daddy," I sobbed as I hid

my face in his shirt.Dad held me and cried. "I'm so sorry."I never thought I would lose my mother, not this soon. I'm just a teenager.

My mom was too young to die! I spent that whole night, thinking that thingswould never be the same again. It was a very long night for me. I couldn't get tosleep. Some maniac took my mother's life! I wanted to find that bastard and kickhis butt really hard! That stupid maniac! He took my mother away from me! Notonly did he take my mother away, but he took my best friend away.



Chapter 2

Dad and I grieved for a while. Hey, it was hard to get over something likethis. Our feelings soon got in the way of having fun, until a couple months later,when Dad suggested we go out with friends.

One Friday night, we were both getting ready to go out. Dad was going tosee a musical with a few friends, and I was going to the mall with my best friend,Nicole.

"Have a good time, Sweetheart," Dad said, dropping me off at the mall."Thanks, Dad." I kissed him and ran inside to meet Nicole. "Hey, Nicole!""Hey!" she greeted. "I didn't think you'd show!""Dad convinced me to come.""Well, I'm glad he did. Look, I know you miss your mom, but we're gonna

have fun tonight."Meanwhile, Dad and his friends were at the theatre downtown, watching

their musical. The actors were all good, but one really got Dad's attention. Her

name was Daphne, and she was playing the lead role in the play. Oh, if youwanna know what musical this was, it was The Phantom of the Opera. I love thatone!

Daphne played Christine, and she did one heck of a job at it. Her singingblew Dad away.

Dad looked at his friends. "Wow," he exhaled. "She's amazing.""Hell, yeah!" one of his friends, Michael, exclaimed. "Damn, if I didn't have

a wife, I'd marry her. She's hot.""She's beautiful, too," said Dad."Yeah.""Go talk to her after the show," said another friend, Dan.

"Are you kidding? I don't even know what to say to her.""Just ask her out.""A woman like her's probably married already. Plus, I don't know if I'm

ready to date again.""Sure, you are, man. Look, yo' wife would want this for you.""I don't know.""Come on," Michael agreed. "You can't spend the rest of your life,

grieving for Kaitlyn. You gotta date sometime."Dad sighed hesitantly. "Okay. Alright, I'll go talk to her after the show."So, Dad did exactly what he said he would. After the show was over, he

went backstage to talk to Daphne. "Excuse me," he said to a security guard.

"I'm looking for Daphne Sanders.""She's in her dressing room right now," said the guard. "She'll be out in a

minute.""Thank you, sir.""You smitten with her?"Dad chuckled. "Yeah. I was gonna ask her out.""She was amazing, wasn't she?""Yeah. It's been a little while since I've seen someone that beautiful. My



wife passed away a few months ago.""I'm sorry to hear that. Well, good luck with Daphne.""Thank you."Dad didn't have to wait that long for Daphne to come out. As soon as she

left her dressing room and entered the backstage area, he strutted right up to

her. "Hi," he said shyly."Hello," Daphne greeted sweetly."Great show tonight."Daphne blushed. "Oh, thank you.""I'm Sam.""I'm Daphne. Nice to meet you, Sam.""Likewise," Dad said, shaking her hand. "You have the most beautiful

voice I've ever heard, and--and you're the most beautiful woman I've seen sincemy wife... you know..."

"Aww, thank you! So, you're single?""Yeah. You?"

"Yes, actually.""Great! I mean, uh...""It's okay. I was with someone, but we broke up.""I'm sorry.""No, it's okay.""Well... I was wondering if... maybe... you'd like to go out to dinner

sometime.""Are you asking me on a date?""Yeah.""I'd love to go out! When are you available?""Is tomorrow night okay?"

"Tomorrow night is perfect.""Great, cuz' I know this awesome restaurant my wife and I used to eat at.""Should I meet you there?""I'll pick you up.""I'd love that. Um, let me give you my contact info." Daphne dug through

her purse and handed Dad a card with her address and phone number on it."What time should I come by?""Is 6:30 alright with you?""That's perfect.""Alright, I'll see you then.""Okay, and again, great show.""Thank you.""You really blew me away tonight."Daphne giggled. "Aww."Later, Dad picked me up from the mall. We talked on the way home."So, did you and Nicole have fun?" Dad asked me."Yeah, we had a lot of fun. I haven't laughed like this in, like, a long time!""I had a good time tonight, too.""Nicole is so funny. She was trying on this dress, and she turned around



and showed me the back. She was like, 'Does this make my butt look big?' I'mlike, 'Yeah,' and she's like, 'Then, I gotta get you one.' I'm like, 'Are you kiddingme? Jalen would freak!' It was funny."

Dad laughed. "Ah, I'm glad you had fun.""So, was the musical good?"

"It was amazing. Actually, I met the woman who played Christine.""Cool.""She was great. Her singing blew me away... and she's beautiful. She's...

very beautiful.""Are you... seeing her?""Yes. She and I have a date tomorrow night.""That's great, Dad." I guess I was happy for him, but it felt like Mom was

being replaced by someone else. I didn't wanna tell my Dad though. He washappy, and I didn't want my feelings getting in the way of his.



Chapter 3

On Saturday night, Dad was ready for his date. He was dressed in silkpants and a matching sweater. He picked Daphne up at 6:30, like he promised,and the two went to the restaurant they had planned on going to.

"This is such a nice place," said Daphne."Yeah," Dad agreed."What happened with you and your wife?""She passed away.""Awww, I'm so sorry!""It was a couple months ago.""How did she die?""She was in an accident. Some maniac was driving too fast, and he

slammed into her car.""Aww, poor thing. I know you must miss her.""Yeah, I do."

"I'll be here for you, Sweetie, okay?"Dad smiled. "Wow.""What is it?""I never knew you were this sweet.""Aww, you think I'm sweet?""Very.""Aww, well, I think you're just as precious as can be."Dad blushed."Aww, look at you! You're blushing! That's so cute!"He turned even redder! "Stop it," he flirted.Daphne giggled. "Never."

"You're amazing.""So are you."Dad changed the subject. "Do you have kids?""Not yet, but I've always wanted some. What about you?""I have a daughter, Allison. She's fifteen.""I bet she's an angel.""She's very sweet.""She probably gets it from you.""I always thought she got it from her mother.""Maybe she got it from both of you. She's a lucky girl to have you for a

father. I know losing her mother must've been tough on her, but you were there

for her through it all. I'm sure.""She and her mom were very close, so she's had a hard time adjusting.""I'm sure she has.""Last night, I suggested we both go out with our friends to help take our

minds off of everything. She went to the mall with her friend, and I went to themusical."

"Well, I'm glad you came.""Me, too."



While they were talking, the waitress came to check on them. "Iseverything alright over here?" she asked.

"Everything's great," answered Daphne."Can I get you anything else?""May I have some more tea, please?"

"Sure. I'll be right back." The waitress left to get the tea.Dad and Daphne continued their conversation."Do you have a job?" Dad asked."I'm currently working at the seniour center. I tend to them when they

need me. What about you?""I'm a dentist.""So, you love to help people, too?""Yeah.""I also donate to St. Jude's hospital.""I do, too.""Aww, those poor children suffering cancer. I wish I could cure them, so

they could live a long and healthy life. Sam, you're such a good person. I betyour daughter's proud to have you as her father.""I hope so.""Oh, I know so.""Daphne Sanders, you are, in all honesty, the sweetest and most amazing

woman I've met in a long time. I know this is just the first date, but I haven't feltthis way since Kaitlyn."

"Oh, Sam, Sweetie, I feel the same way about you, too. So, why stop withdinner?"

"What are you suggesting?""Well, you took me somewhere wonderful tonight. Now, it's my turn to

take you somewhere.""Where would we go?""It's a surprise.""Ooh." Dad smiled. He knew this was gonna be good.After dinner, Daphne drove Dad to a beautiful field. The couple got out of

the car. Dad looked around the field. "Wow, this is amazing!" he said as he andDaphne walked through the tall grass.

"I love to come here. I love nature." Daphne led Dad to a large stumpnear a small grove of trees. "Sit down."

Dad did so."Look around you. Can you see the beauty of nature? God's creation?

Isn't it a blessing? Look at the colourful flowers, or the green trees, or the tallgrass. No one cuts this grass. It just grows naturally."

"It sure is beautiful.""Now, I want you to close your eyes and just listen. Listen to the soft wind

blowing, the water in the stream, chuckling away, and the birds singing sweetmelodies."

Dad closed his eyes and did exactly what Daphne said to do."Can you hear the music? Can you hear Mother Nature's endless song?"



"Yeah.""Isn't it the sweetest song you've ever heard?""It's very sweet. There's just one thing missing.""What is that?""You singing."

Daphne smiled. "You want me to sing?""Will you sing to me?""Aww, I will, Sweetie. Come here." Daphne held Dad in her arms and

massaged his back. "I listen to so many songs by Celtic Woman, and one of myfavourites speaks of war, anger, and sadness, and how there should be morelove and peace among us. It's called One World."

"I'd love to hear the song."So, Daphne sang her song in the sweetest voice anyone could ever hear.

She brought tears to Dad's eyes. Her voice matched the lyrics and the melodyperfectly. She wiped his tears away as she continued singing to him.

"That was so beautiful," Dad said, drying his tears away.

"Aww, thank you, Sweetheart!""You know, you have the voice of an angel.""I do?""Well, duh!" Dad flirted.Daphne giggled. "Oh, you're so cute, and you know what I think?""What?""I think you're an angel, too.""Wow, really?""Of course, Baby. Close your eyes again.""Okay." Dad did so."I want you to tell me what you see. What pictures are in your head right

now? Better yet, what pictures do you see in your heart?"Dad thought about it for a moment. "Well... I see a doorway. It's a...doorway to heaven."

"What do you see when you open that door?""I see angels. There's lots of angels, but one in particular stands out to

me. She has a smile that makes me weak in the knees, a voice that makes myheart melt, and when she touches my hand, I freeze. I just stand there, staringinto her eyes."

"Who is this angel?"Dad gently took hold of Daphne's hand and kissed it. "It's you.""Aww. Do you want to know what picture I saw in my heart?""What did you see?""I saw you walking through the doorway to heaven, and the first thing I

wanted to do was to hold you close, kiss you, and give you all the love you couldpossibly ask for, or so much more."

With that, Dad leaned in to kiss Daphne. He shared a real kiss withsomeone, and he hadn't done that since Mom. After kissing Daphne, he lookedinto her eyes. "Did you feel anything?" he asked her.

"I did. I felt sparks. What about you? Did you feel anything?"



"I felt sparks, too.""Oh, Sam, I'm having a wonderful time with you.""Me, too, Daphne. Actually, I'm having the best night I've ever had in a

long time," said Dad as he rested his head on Daphne's shoulder and closed hiseyes. Daphne held him in her arms, rested her head on top of his, and she, too,

closed her eyes. They fell asleep in the comfort of each other's arms.For the first time since Mom died, Dad was in love. He found someonewho made him happy, and he wasn't even expecting to find anyone. He andDaphne were happy together.



Chapter 4

"What time is it?" Dad asked Daphne after they woke up.Daphne checked her cell phone. "Oh, my... it's two in the morning.""Oh, crap!""What's the matter?""Allie's probably wondering where the hell I am by now.""Aww, I'm sorry.""No, no, don't be sorry. I had a wonderful time with you. I just need to get

home.""I do, too. I'm very tired.""I'll drive you home.""Okay, Baby. Come on."Dad and Daphne carefully walked through the field and to their car. Dad

opened the door for the lady."Thank you," said Daphne.

"Just being a gentleman.""Oh, you are a gentleman," Daphne said, getting in the car.So, Dad drove Daphne home."I hope you have the sweetest dreams," said Daphne."Yeah, you, too. Hey, when can I see you again?""I'll make lunch for you. Come over to my place around 12:30. I'll have

something special made for you.""Okay, I'll see you then. Good night, Daphne.""Good night, Precious." Daphne kissed Dad, and then, she got out of the

car.When Dad came in, I was already fast asleep. My grandmother, Hillary,

was in the living room, watching television. Dad went in and joined her. "Hey,Mom."

"Hey, Darlin'," she greeted. "How was your date?""It was awesome.""I shouldn't have asked. I could tell you had a good time, or you wouldn't

have stayed out this late. Sit with me, Honey. Tell me all about it."Dad sat down on the couch, next to Grandma. "Well, I took her to dinner.""Where did you go?""The restaurant that Kaitlyn and I used to go to."Grandma gasped. "Ohh, I bet she liked that!""She did, actually. She said it was a wonderful place."

"She's right.""We also talked.""What did you two talk about?""Different stuff. I told her about Kaitlyn and what happened, and I told her

about Allie. I told her what a great daughter Allie is. I also told her I was adentist, and she said she works at the seniour center. She takes care of theelderly. Mom, she and I have a lot in common."

"Oh, isn't that a good feelin' when you meet someone like that?"



"Yeah. After dinner, she took me to a field.""A field?""Yeah, it was the prettiest field I'd ever seen. She and I sat on this big

stump, and she blew me away. She told me to look around at God's creation,and I did. I saw the flowers, the trees, the stream, and the grass was really tall.

No one mows the grass there. They just let it grow out. I never saw it like thatbefore.""Fields are great places to be in. I remember playin' in the field when I

was a little girl. Mama and I played Hide and Go Seek." Grandma chuckled,thinking about her childhood. "Oh, she and I had a great time together. I missher so much."

"Yeah, Grandma was something else, wasn't she?""She sure was. What else happened?""She told me to close my eyes and listen to the sounds around me. She

made me realise that the wind in the trees, the water chuckling, and the birdssinging, were part of Mother Nature's song. I told her there was only one thing

missing. Her singing, so she sang to me.""Was it beautiful?""It was. She made me cry.""Oh, Honey, that's very romantic. What kept you out this late?""We fell asleep in each other's arms.""That's precious. Do you love her?""We have a lunch date. She invited me to her house for lunch.""Oh, well, then, you better get some sleep, so you'll be fresh for your

second date, Honey.""I will. Good night, Mom." Dad kissed Grandma good night and went to

bed.

Dad woke up around noon, and he prepared lunch for me. Then, he cameto my room and knocked on my door. I was still in bed. Hey, I'm a teenager. Ilove sleeping late on the weekends. Anyway, back to the story. Now, where wasI? Oh, yeah! Dad knocked on my door. "Hey, Honey," he said.

"Hey, Dad. Where were you last night?""The date went on for a lot longer than I thought it would. Listen, Daphne

invited me to lunch, so I made you a sandwich. If you're still hungry, you knowwhere the chips are. Help yourself."

"Okay, Dad. Thanks.""Just eat when you're ready." Dad kissed me. "I'll see you later, Sweetie.""Have fun with Daphne."Dad smiled at me, and then, he left.He arrived at Daphne's place at around 12:30."Hi, Sweetie!" Daphne greeted happily, throwing her arms around him and

kissing him. "Come in! Lunch is almost ready."Dad followed Daphne into the kitchen and inhaled the delicious aroma

coming from the stove. "Something smells good.""It's my famous macaroni and cheese.""Mmm, I love macaroni!"



"I figured you did after you gobbled down that bowl of macaroni last night."Dad laughed. "I can be a pig when it comes to that stuff.""Well, lucky for you, I made plenty," Daphne said while checking the stove,

"and it looks like it's ready."Dad glanced at the pot of macaroni. "It looks terrific."

"Thank you."The couple talked while eating their lunch."Mmm," said Dad after taking a huge bite of macaroni. "This is delicious.

You're a great cook.""You should've seen the size of that bite you just shoved in your mouth,"

Daphne teased."I told you I'm a pig. Oink, oink."Daphne giggled. "You're so funny... and so adorable. You should see

your face when it's full of food. It's so cute.""Maybe you should see yours. It's cuter.""No, you're cuter."

"No, you are.""No way. You're the cute one."Unexpectedly, Daphne planted a major lip lock on Dad. Then, she looked

at him for a moment. "I love you."Dad lost his breath and accidentally dropped his spoon."Whoops, I'll get you another spoon, Baby. I guess I shocked you with

what I said.""Shocked isn't the write word. I'm stunned."Daphne continued talking to Dad while putting the dirty spoon in the

dishwasher and grabbing a clean one out of the drawer. "I meant it, Baby," shesaid, handing the clean spoon to Dad. She pulled her chair next to his and

wrapped her arm around his neck. "I really do love you."Dad brushed away a few tears."Baby, are you okay?""I'm fine.""What is it, Precious?""I... I love you, too, Daphne. I love you so much.""Aww." Daphne kissed Dad. "I know I've only known you for two days,

but I've never felt this way about anyone, not even my past relationships.Nothing compares to this." She started to cry. "I can't help the way I'm feeling,and I don't want to. I don't want to let go of this feeling. It's--it's wonderful. I justwant to wrap my arms around you and hold you for the rest of my life. I may becrazy for falling in love so quickly, but I don't care. I've always believed in love atfirst sight, but I never thought it would happen to me, not like this. I never want tobreak your heart. In fact, I want to be the one to mend it and make all your paindisappear."

"Oh, Daphne, you make me so hot."Daphne giggled. "You set me on fire.""Stop it. You're giving me cavities with that sweetness of yours.""I'll make sure you get cavities in all of your teeth."



"Ooh, I'm so scared.""You should be.""Nah, I'm not scared of you.""And, I'm not scared of you." Daphne kissed Dad again. "Are you having

a good time?"

"I'm having an amazing time.""I'm so happy. Come into the living room with me." Daphne took Dad'shand and led him into the living room.

"What's this all about?""Just close your eyes, Baby."Dad did so.Daphne inserted a CD into a Boom Box and played a gorgeous version of

an Old English song, Scarborough Fair by Celtic Woman."I love this song.""May I have this dance?" Daphne asked as she grabbed Dad's hands."Yes, you may."

And so, the two danced to the fun love song. Dad was practically liftingDaphne off the floor. It felt to her as if she was floating. They spun around andflew into each other's arms. It was so romantic. Dad had never danced like thatbefore. I guess it made him feel excited. When the song ended, they both heldeach other tightly and kissed.

"How did that feel?" asked an out-of-breath Daphne."It was exciting. I haven't danced like that in a long time.""Did you and Kaitlyn ever dance?""Yeah, but the only time we danced like this is on our wedding day.""I'm sure it was very romantic.""It was."

"Exactly how long ago was your wedding?""It was sixteen years ago. We were both nineteen.""You were only nineteen when you married?""Yeah.""Baby, that's so precious.""I'll never forget the wedding.""You shouldn't. Your wife may have passed on, but her spirit will never be

lost.""Daphne, sometimes, I get the feeling you're a real life angel.""Aww, you think so?""No, I know you're an angel. You've got the voice of an angel, the face of

an angel, and a heart and soul as pure as an angel's heart and soul. I wish therewere more people like you in this stupid world."

"Oh, Sam. You're my angel.""I love you, Daphne.""I love you, too, Baby."



Chapter 5

The next day, at school, Nicole and I were eating lunch and talking aboutwhat happened over the weekend.

"So, your dad's finally dating again?" asked Nicole."Yeah.""That's so sweet. Does he talk about his girlfriend?""Yeah, he says she's really sweet.""Aww.""I'm really happy for him.""Have you met her?""Not yet, but her name is Daphne. She's from England.""I love the name Daphne.""Me, too.""Wasn't there an English woman on Frasier named Daphne?""Yeah! Oh, my gosh! I love that show!"

"So do I!""I can't wait to meet this woman. She makes my dad really happy.""That's good. I mean, it's healthy for him to start dating again.""He didn't think he'd ever fall in love again after Mom died.""Excuse me, girls," said a voice.Nicole and I looked up and saw Stacey, the most popular girl in school

and the biggest snob, standing over our table."What do you want, Stacey?" asked an annoyed Nicole."I couldn't help overhearing your conversation.""Yeah, our conversation is private, which means butt out.""I'm sorry, but I can't do that. I have to stick my adorable nose into other

people's business, so I can have something to gossip about."We gave Stacey dirty looks."So, Allison, your daddy's dating again, huh?""Yeah, so?" I snarled."Well, you know what that means, right?""That he's moving on.""No, that he's replacing your dead mommy.""Oh, shut up, skank!" Nicole snapped."It's true," said Stacey. "Soon after your mommy goes bye-bye, your

daddy's gonna find a new mommy, and all the memories of your old mommy willbe lost forever. You'll never see her again... unless you die, too."

"Shut up!" Nicole shouted. "You're wrong!""Quack, quack, no, I'm not.""Woof, woof, yes, you are. Oh, and by the way, Karen Walker quacks

better than you, but you probably bark better than I do since you're a natural.""Did you just call me a dog?!""Well, think about it. The only way anyone can get you to go away is if

they throw a bone."Stacey pulled a fake pout and pretended to cry. "I'm telling my mommy,



because I have a mommy." Then, she ran off."Yeah, well, one of these days, your mom's gonna get sick of your crap

and kick you out of the house! Woof, woof!"Stacey's words kept echoing in my head, and I started to think that...

maybe she was right.

Nicole noticed the sad expression on my face. "Allie, are you alright?"I sighed. "What if Stacey's right?""She's never right, Allie.""Yeah, but what if, this time, she is? What if Daphne does take Mom's

place?""Allie, no one can replace your mom. Your dad may be with another

woman, but he'll never find another person exactly like your mom. Allie, Stacey'swrong, as usual. She can run her mouth as much as she wants, but she'll never get it right. Girl, she can't even pass gym class, because she's scared of breaking a freakin' nail. Allie, listen, your dad would never try to replace your mom. Not even a clone of your mom can replace her. Don't worry about it."

"Maybe you're right."I was feeling a little better, but then, on my way to class, I saw a hugeposter on the bulletin board in the lobby. I was so pissed off when I read what itsaid. "'News flash! Today's gossip is, Allison Matthew's mommy dies. Daddystarts dating again and replaces Dead Mommy. Allison can only be with her mommy again if she dies?!' What the hell?! Who would do something like this?!"

"I think I know just who it is," said Nicole.I looked around, and everyone passing by me was giving me ugly looks.

One kid actually came up to me and said, "Hey, why don't you go kill yourself andbe with your mommy?"

"Leave her alone!" Nicole shrieked.

"Well, well, well, Allison Matthews," Stacey snarled as she pranced rightup to me, "looks like I've made your life so miserable and unbearable. What areyou gonna do now? If I were you, I would go kill myself, so I could be with mymommy. Isn't that what you want? Come on, Allie. You don't want your mommyreplaced now, do you? Well, see you in the afterlife."

This was incredibly humiliating, not to mention hurtful. I was so glad to getout of school. When I got home, I immediately ran up to my room, slammed thedoor, and I hid under the sheets, crying my eyes out.

In the middle of the night, I woke up in tears. I couldn't sleep, because Ikept thinking about my mother. I kept thinking about what Stacey said, and ithurt me so badly to think of my mother being replaced. I had made a choice. Iwanted to be with my mother. So, I reached for Grandma's spare sleeping pills.I opened the container and took several of the pills. The next thing I knew, I wason the floor, clutching the container of pills.

In the morning, Dad came downstairs to make his coffee, and he saw meon the floor, unconscious. "Allie? Honey, what are you doing on the floor?" Heknelt down next to me. "Honey? It's time to get up." Then, he saw the container of sleeping pills in my hand. "Oh, my God. Oh, my God!" He panicked, rushedto the phone, and dialed 9-1-1. "Yes, this is Sam Matthews. My daughter's



unconscious! She--she took sleeping pills, and I can't wake her up!"Within minutes, I was lying in a hospital bed with my father by my side.

After about an hour, I woke up and looked around me. "Where am I?""You're in the hospital, Sweetie," said Dad."What happened?"

"You overdosed on Grandma's sleeping pills. Honey, what happened?Why'd you do it? Is everything okay?"I tried not to cry. "I don't know. I wanted to be with Mom.""Oh, Sweetie, I know you miss your mom, but...""It's not just that, Daddy."Dad paused for a little while and thought about what I said. "Are you

feeling threatened by my dating Daphne?""I feel like Mom's being replaced, and it hurts.""Baby, I would never try to replace Mom with another woman. Daphne's a

wonderful person, but I'm not trying to use her to take the place of Mom. Allie, Iloved your mother very much, and I still do. But, I'm in love with Daphne, too.

Sweetie, I will never forget your mother. In fact, Daphne and I talk about her alot.""You do?""Yeah.""Dad, I'm so sorry," I wept.Dad hugged and kissed me. "Oh, Sweetie, it's okay. You're safe and

alive. I'm thankful for that.""I love you so much.""I love you, too, Sweetheart." While Dad was speaking, his cell phone

rang. "Hold on." He answered it. "Hello? Hey, Daphne. I took the day off. I'min the hospital right now. No, I'm fine. It's Allie. Okay, I'll see you then. I will.

Bye, Sweetie.""Was that Daphne?""Yes, it was. She told me to tell you that she hopes you feel better.""That's so nice.""Yeah, she's a sweet woman. I really think you'd like her.""I never disliked her.""I know. You're not the kind of person who judges people before meeting

them. You're a good kid.""That's because I have a really cool dad."



Chapter 6

Meanwhile, at school, Nicole was talking with my boyfriend, Jalen. "I'mworried about Allie," she said. "She's not at school."

"I hope she's alright," said Jalen."I don't know. I mean, did you see all the crap Stacey put her through?""What did she do?""Come with me. I'll show you." Nicole led Jalen to the offensive poster on

the bulletin board. "Look what Stacey wrote."Jalen read the message, and his face turned red. "Dam it! That stupid

slut! Man, I swear to God!""I was pretty pissed off myself."Just then, the sound of the principal's voice was heard over the PA.

"Attention, students. This is Principal Whitlow here. I'm afraid one of our students, Allison Matthews, is in the hospital. Her father just informed me thatshe overdosed on sleeping pills. Now, as I was walking by the bulletin board

yesterday, I saw a threatening poster, and I have reason to believe that this mayhave something to do with it. Whoever made the poster, you will be found, andyou will be permanently expelled from school. That is all I have to say."

Nicole's jaw dropped. "She took sleeping pills?! Oh, way to go, Stacey.""We gotta go to the principal.""Oh, trust me. I'm on my way there right now." Nicole stormed off and

hurried into the main office. "Excuse me," she said to the secretaries. "I'm hereto see Mr. Whitlow. I know who put up that poster."

"Have a seat on the sofa, and I will inform him for you," said one of thesecretaries.

"Thank you." Nicole sat down and waited.

The secretary went into Mr. Whitlow's office. "Sir, there is a young ladywho would like to see you."

"Alright." Mr. Whitlow left his office and saw Nicole waiting for him."Nicole, what can I do for you?"

"I know who made that poster. It was Stacey McDaniels. Yesterday, shewas torturing Allie about her father dating again after her mother died, andeverything she wrote in the poster, she said to Allie's face."

"Thank you for telling me. I'll take care of it immediately.""Thanks. Oh, and would it be alright if I took the poster to show to Allie's

father? I think he should know what drove his daughter to do this.""Yes, ma'am. Come back after school, and I'll have the poster for you

then.""Thank you."Later on, Nicole visited me in the hospital, and she brought the poster.

"Hey, Allie, how you feelin'?""Okay, I guess," I replied. I saw the rolled up poster under Nicole's arm.

"Is that Stacey's poster?""Yeah, Mr. Whitlow took it down, so I could show your dad. I figured he

should know what happened."



"Is Stacey still laughing at my pain and misery?""She was this morning, but I got her in trouble with Mr. Whitlow. She left

the office, crying."I laughed."She's expelled from school. Although, I'm not quite finished with her. I

still need to open up a can of whoop ass on her.""Well, when you do, tell me, so I can watch."Nicole laughed. "Don't worry. I will.""So, are you gonna show that to my dad now?""Show me what?" asked Dad, walking back into the room. He had gone to

get some coffee. "Oh, hi, Nicole.""Hey, Mr. Matthews.""What were you gonna show me?""I thought you should know what drove Allie to try and commit suicide.""She already told me.""Yeah, but you didn't see this." Nicole unrolled the poster and showed it to

my dad. "Stacey McDaniels, the most popular girl in school, wrote that, and shehung it up on the main bulletin board.""What?! I hope she got in trouble.""She got in more trouble than you'll ever know. I turned her in to the

principal, and he expelled her from school. Now, the only thing left for me to dois kick her butt."

"I think you already did. Thanks for looking out for my daughter.""Are you kidding? I don't let anyone mess with my friends.""You're a good friend.""So, will she be back in school tomorrow?""I want her to rest for the rest of the week, but she'll be back in school next

week, that is, if she's ready.""I understand. Allie, I hope you feel better, girlfriend.""Thanks, Nicole.""I'll see you in school next week.""Okay. Bye.""Bye." Nicole left the room.Dad approached my bed. "Sweetie? While you were asleep, a couple

hours ago, I went home to get this for you." He gave me a photo album withpictures of my mother. "I thought you'd like to look at this."

"Thank you, Daddy.""These are pictures of your mother. They're all random. Some of them

are with her and you. Some of them are with her and me, and some are with allthree of us. I'm giving this to you to keep."



Chapter 7

That night, I was by myself for a few minutes, looking through the photoalbum of my mother. I cried a little when I saw the beautiful pictures of her. Thealbum was alive with memories.

While I was looking through the album, I heard the sound of heels cominginto the room. I looked up and saw a woman next to my bed. "Hi," she said. "I'mDaphne." Yes, it was Daphne. "You must be Allison."

"Hi."Daphne noticed the photo album in my lap. "What are you looking at?""It's a photo album my dad gave me.""Aww, may I see it?""Sure."Daphne flipped through the pages. "Is that your mother?""Yeah.""She's beautiful."

"She was awesome. We were really close. I told her everything, and sheunderstood me."

"I know you must miss her very much.""I really miss her.""Your father told me what happened with you.""You mean the pills?""Yes. He told me what that girl did to you at school. He showed me that

awful poster.""It was so embarrassing. The whole school was laughing at me.""Sweetie, I know it's hard for a teenager to adjust to her father dating

again, but I want you to know something."

"What?""I would never try to take the place of your mother. Even if I did try, I

couldn't do it. Nobody will ever take her place." Daphne stroked my hair."Sweetie, I love your father very much. He's a kind man, and I don't think I'veever felt this way about any man before. Your father is a sweet angel, and I wantso badly to hold him close to my heart for the rest of my life, but I would never doanything to hurt either of you. He cares about you very much. Do you know hetalks about you all the time?"

"He does?""Yes, he does. He's always telling me what a sweet and lovely girl you

are. From the way he described you, I expected to meet another angel, and you

know what? I did. He was right about you. You're a very sweet girl, and he'slucky to have you for a daughter. I've been wanting to meet you, and now that Ihave, I want to hold you close as well."

"Dad talks about you a lot, too. He says you're really nice. I know mydad. He's right about everything."

"Sweetie, I will never try to take the place of your mother. I want you tokeep her in your heart forever. I'll never try to make your father forget her, butthere is one thing I really want to do if it's alright with you."



"What?""I would really love to make you my own daughter. Baby, I love you so

much, and I would really love to be there for you. You and your father mean theworld to me. If it's alright with you, I would love to be a mother to you."

"I'd love that, and I know you won't take the place of my mom."

"Aww, I would never do that to you, Baby." Daphne climbed into the bedwith me. "Come here." She wrapped her arm around me and held me. "I'm notleaving you. I'll always be here whenever you need me, and whatever you wantto talk about, I'm always listening. Just have a little faith in me."

"That's a Mandy Moore song.""Yes, it is. It's my favourite song.""Daddy told me you sing to him a lot.""I do.""Will you sing to me, too?""Awww, of course, Baby. I'll sing to you when you decide to go to sleep."Meanwhile, at home, Dad was sitting in the living room with Grandma.

"How's Allie?" she asked."She's doing better.""And, you?"Dad sighed. "I don't know. I mean, I love Daphne with all my heart, but...""But, you feel like you're cheating on Kaitlyn.""Yeah.""Oh, Honey, Kaitlyn wouldn't want you to think that. I know it feels like

you're cheatin' on her, but she would want you to be happy. Don't letunnecessary guilt stop you from being with Daphne."

"It's not just Kaitlyn. It's Allie, too. She feels like her mother's beingreplaced by someone else."

"That's only natural for a teenager to think that, but no one can ever replace her mother.""That's what I told her.""I bet she'll feel better once she gets to know Daphne.""Actually, Daphne's down there right now.""Ohh, I bet they're gettin' along great. You wait and see."Dad closed his eyes and sighed heavily. "God, I love Daphne so much.""I can tell.""I wanna marry her.""Why don't you ask her?""You know? I think I will. I'll ask her on Friday.""Why Friday?""Because, I wanna prepare a big dinner surprise for her.""I'll help you. I can bake a cake, and you can put an engagement ring in

one of the pieces.""I'll buy the ring and cook the food.""I'll set up the decorations! Oh, Honey, this will be wonderful!"



Chapter 8

So, I finally got out of the hospital on Friday afternoon. I did enjoy my staythere, but I was happy to be home again. Grandma had picked me up andbrought me back home. When I walked through the front door, I smelledsomething delicious. Dad was in the kitchen, cooking something special for dinner. "Hey, Dad."

Dad turned around and saw me behind him. "Hey! Allie, how you feelin',Honey?"

"A lot better!""That's good.""What are you making?""I'm making spaghetti.""With meatballs?""Well, yeah, but the meatballs are gonna be in a separate dish. Daphne's

a vegetarian."

I suddenly got all excited. "Oh, my gosh! Daphne's coming over for dinner?!"

"Yep.""Yes!""You like her?""Yes, she is so sweet!""I hear you met her in the hospital.""She came to visit me. She was so sweet to me.""Well, I'm glad you feel that way about her, because tonight, I'm gonna ask

her to marry me."I squealed and threw my arms around Dad. "Oh, my God! Oh, my God!

Oh, my God! Oh, my God! Oh, my God! This is, like, so awesome!" I keptsqueezing him and squealing! I was so excited for him and Daphne!

"Look at the ring I bought her." Dad showed me a very expensivediamond ring.

"Aww, that's so pretty! She's gonna love it!""Let me look at it," said Grandma.Dad showed her the ring."Ohhh! That's beautiful! Oh, Honey, how can you afford something like

this?""It wasn't too expensive.""Well, let me go cut a slice of cake, and you can hide the ring inside of it."

Grandma ran to the refrigerator, excited about this awesome night. She cut ahuge slice of cake for Daphne. I'm not kidding. It was huge! Then, she broughtthe plate of cake back to Dad.

Dad carefully hid the ring in the slice, I mean, chunk of cake. "Mom, that'sa big piece of cake."

"I know.""Well, what are we standing here for? We still have to decorate the dining

room."



"I'll go get the table cloth," I chimed in."I'll set the table," said Dad."And, I have the perfect center piece for the table. Let me go get it. It's in

my car." Grandma, still very excited and hyped up about this, ran to her car toget the center piece. She came back in with a bouquet of artificial flowers.

"What do you think of these?"Dad and I looked at the pretty colours of the flowers."They're perfect," said Dad."I always liked the artificial flowers a little better," said Grandma. "They

last longer.""And, they're easier to take care of," I joked.Dad chuckled as he placed the bouquet in the center of the table."That looks fantastic!" Grandma exclaimed."Oh, damn!" Dad panicked."What's the matter, Darlin'?""We need candles."

"Oh, don't forget romantic music," I added."The music's no problem," said Dad. "I made her a CD of my favouritelove songs. I hope she likes them, too."

"Oh, Honey, you and Allie listen to lovely music," said Grandma. "I'm sureshe'll love the CD."

"I'll go get the CD player," I said, hurrying to my room."I'll get the candles," said Dad."I'll light them for you, Sweetie," said Grandma.Soon, everything was ready. The candles were lit. The dining room lights

were dimmed. The food was ready. Everything looked totally amazing. All weneeded was Daphne, so we sat in the living room, waiting for her.

"What time is she supposed to be here?" I asked.Dad checked his watch. "She should be here in about ten minutes.""Okay."Well, ten minutes passed, and Daphne hadn't shown up. Twenty minutes

passed, and she still hadn't shown up. Forty-five minutes passed, and Daphnestill wasn't here. After an hour, we were starting to worry.

"Where is she?" I asked, worried."I don't know," Dad said sadly. "I thought she would've been here a while

ago.""Oh, dear, I hope she's alright," added Grandma.While we were waiting, the phone rang."Oh, that's probably her," Dad said hastily, jumping up from his seat. "I'll

get it." He grabbed the phone. "Hello, Daphne? Oh. Who is this? Yes, I'mSam. Is Daphne alright? Oh, no. What happened?"

Grandma and I listened to Dad's voice, and we felt very scared thatsomething may have happened to Daphne.

Dad continued. "Oh, my God. Okay, we'll be there in about twentyminutes. Okay. Bye." He waited until the person he was talking to hung up, andthen, he slammed the phone down. "Damn it!" He was suddenly panting with



tears rolling down his face. "Damn it!!" he screamed, knocking random glassesonto the floor.

"Honey, Honey, what's wrong?!" asked a worried Grandma."Dad, what happened?!" I asked nervously.Dad could barely talk. "It's--it's Daphne. Sh-she's in the hospital."

"Oh, Lord!" Grandma shrieked. "What happened?"Dad tried to speak, but he was too upset."Sweetie, calm down. Come here, Honey. Come here." Grandma held

him in her arms and patted his back. "Breathe."Dad took a deep breath in and out."Now, tell me what happened to Daphne.""She got shot.""Shot?! You mean with a gun?!""Yes! That was her mom. Oh, God, what am I gonna do? I already lost

Kaitlyn. I can't lose Daphne, too. I love her too much. I don't wanna lose her now."

Grandma and I consoled Dad.Before we left for the hospital, we had to stash the spaghetti, themeatballs, and Daphne's cake in the fridge. Then, we blew out the candles onthe dining room table. Finally, we were ready to go.

On the way to the hospital, I called Nicole on my cell phone. "Nicole?Yeah, it's Allie. I'm on my way to the hospital with my dad and my grandma. No,I'm fine. Daphne got shot, and she's in the hospital. I don't have time to talk, butwill you please come as soon as you can? Thanks, girl. Oh, and please callJalen, too. Thanks. Bye."

We arrived at the hospital in less than five minutes. We didn't wasteanother second. We stopped by the front desk.

"May I help you?" asked the secretary."Yes, we're here to see Daphne Sanders," Dad explained. "Do you knowwhat room she's in?"

"Hold on." The secretary checked on her computer. "Daphne Sanders,did you say?"

"Yes.""She is in room 418.""Okay. Thank you, ma'am.""You're welcome.""Come on, guys. Let's go."Grandma and I followed Dad to the elevator. We had to wait for a few

minutes, because the stupid elevator was slow."Come on," Dad growled. "Hurry up, you stupid elevator."Finally, the darn thing got Dad's message."Thank you."We stepped onto the elevator and slowly made it to the fourth floor. We

came out into a confusing hallway. It was like a maze, and we didn't have time torun around, looking for the room. We ran into a gentleman passing by.

"Excuse me, sir," I said, "can you tell us where room 418 is?"



The man pointed to our left. "Down this hall, and then, turn right. It's thethird door down."

"Thank you."With the directions, we sped down the hallway, and we found the room.

We peaked inside and saw an unconscious Daphne, lying in a hospital bed. The

room was very dim, but we could see her. We approached her and just stoodthere, staring at her."She's so beautiful," Grandma wept. "How could this happen to someone

like her?""What kind of sick bastard would do this kinda crap anyway?" I wondered.

"It's so stupid.""It's more than stupid, Honey. It's terrible.""Agreed."Dad burst into tears and sunk his face under the covers on Daphne's bed.



Chapter 9

Meanwhile, Nicole strutted her way to Stacey McDaniels' house and rangthe doorbell. Her mother answered the door. "May I help you?" she asked.

"I'm here to see Stacey," Nicole replied."She's grounded right now.""I understand. I just need to talk to her. It's important.""I'll go get her. She's up in her room.""Thanks, Mrs. McDaniels."A minute later, Stacey came downstairs. "Nicole? What are you doing

here?""We need to talk... in private.""Fine."The girls stepped outside."What do you want?" Stacey snapped. "Haven't you screwed up my life

enough already? I mean, first, you get me expelled from school. Now, I'm

grounded for two months! This is all your fault!""Oh, no. No, it isn't, Miss Missy. It's your fault.""How the hell is it my fault? Nothing is my fault.""You know what your problem is? You're too stuck up and snotty to even

care. You're the most self-centered, egotistical slut I have ever met. All you careabout is yourself. You care about how pretty you are or how popular you are...or--or how skinny you are, but you don't give a rat's ass about anyone else'sfeelings. Do you realise what you did to Allie the other day? Because of your bigmouth, she almost ended her life. You almost got your wish, but is it really worthit in the end? Allie is my best friend! I happen to love her like a sister! I'veknown her since preschool, and it hurts me when people like you come along

and try to ruin her life! Because of you, I almost lost my best friend. That's why Igot you in trouble, because you hurt me. You know, I think you deserveeverything you got. That's what happens when you treat people like crap."

"Whatever, loser.""That's another thing! You keep putting people down, because they're not

the perfect, little, porcelain dolls. You find one stupid, little flaw in someone, andyou just put them down for it. Do you enjoy hurting people? I mean, when youthink about it, is it really worth it? You get pleasure out of screwing with people'sfeelings, but I honestly don't think it's worth it. You think we're the losers? Well,you don't know the real loser. I'd show you, but I don't have a mirror."

"Are you calling me a loser?"

"Well, when you think about all the crap you put people through, you reallyare the loser. Look, I don't wanna offend you. I'm just trying to be honest withyou. Instead of moping around about being grounded and all that bull, why don'tyou use this time to think about what you did to everyone else?"

Stacey didn't say a word. She just stormed off. She ran back inside andup to her room.

Mrs. McDaniels stepped outside with Nicole."I'm sorry for being so hard on your daughter," Nicole explained, "but I had



to be honest with her.""No. I think you told her exactly what she needed to hear. I've been trying

to tell her that since she was in middle school, and she never listened to me.Hopefully, she'll listen to you."

"I doubt it."

"How's your friend doing?""She's feeling better. She's out of the hospital now.""That's good to hear.""Yeah.""I appreciate you coming to talk to Stacey. I don't know why she acts like

this all the time. She used to be a better person than this. I don't know whathappened to her."

"Why do so many good people turn evil?""I don't know. Maybe your speech made her think twice." Mrs. McDaniels

sighed. "I'm just so disappointed in her.""I can imagine. I hope that if I have a son or a daughter, they don't turn

from good to evil and not listen to their parents.""Being a mom is hard enough work when your kid just rebels. When your kid ends up hurting other people on purpose, it makes you wonder where youwent wrong in raising them?"

"I don't think it was something you did wrong. She's a snob. Well, I better go now. Allie's out of the hospital, but her dad's girlfriend is in. Allie told me shegot shot, so I better go."

"Okay. I hope she feels better soon, and thank you again!"



Chapter 10

That night, it was just me, Dad, and Grandma in the hospital with Daphneagain. Yes, we had friends visit. Nicole came to visit right after she told Staceyoff, and Jalen visited as well. Then, they went home. We were alone again.Daphne, however, was still unconscious. The doctors were still running tests, butthey had removed the bullet from her body. On the bright side, the sick bastardwho shot her got his butt arrested and thrown in jail. God! I hope he stays thereand rots! In fact, I hope when he dies, he goes straight to hell! I'm sorry thatsounded so mean, but what he did was just sick! I will never forgive him.

Dad was still in tears. He was just standing over Daphne, staring at her and crying. Poor Dad! He loves her so much, and seeing him like this made mefeel bad. I cried, too.

Dad took his shoes off, stashed them in the closet, and he climbed into thebed with Daphne. He never took his eyes off of her. He kept watching over her.

Right then, the doctor came in with a not-so-happy look on his face.

"Doctor, I don't like the look on your face," said Grandma."I'm afraid I have some bad news," he began. "Daphne was shot in a very

critical area in her body, and there is only a small chance of survival. We canonly do our best, but let's hope she survives."

"How much of a chance does she have?" I asked."Well, according to the test results, only about ten to fifteen percent.""Oh, Lord," Grandma whimpered. "Well, there is no way we're leaving

Daphne by herself. No, we're staying. If we have to sleep on the floor, so be it,but Daphne's a very important part of our lives, especially my son's."

"I understand, Mrs. Matthews. Well, if you need anything, NurseMcSweater's just down the hall."

"Thank you, sir."The doctor then left the room.Dad put his arm around Daphne and kissed her. "Please don't leave me,

Daphne," he wept. "Please."Grandma comforted him. "I don't know Daphne, but I know one thing.

She'll be alright.""How do you know?""I'm a mom. I know a survivor when I see one. Sam, Honey, don't give up

on her. I know how much she means to you. Right now, the best thing you cando is pray for her... and keep holding on."

Just then, a dark-haired woman entered the room. "Excuse me. Visiting

hours are over. You'll have to leave now.""I'm not going," Dad replied."Sir, I'm gonna have to ask you to leave. Rules are rules.""I am not leaving Daphne!" He held onto her tighter."If you don't leave right now, I'm calling security."Grandma scowled at the woman and walked right up to her. "Don't you

talk to my son like that! Now, you listen to me, and you listen good! A fewmonths back, we lost someone very close to our hearts! My Sam never thought



he would find another woman after Kaitlyn died, but he did! He met this woman,and he happens to love her very much! Now, if you have one ounce of compassion in you, you will not separate my son from the woman he loves!Daphne Sanders happens to mean the world to him, and I'm not lettin' people likeyou take that away! I don't care if you have to break the damn rules, but you will

not hurt him more than he's already hurtin' right now! I don't care if you get fired!None of us are leavin' Daphne's side, and if that means breaking the damn rules,so help me God, I don't give a rat's ass! Is that clear?!"

"I'm calling security."Just as the woman pulled out her cell phone to call security, Nurse

McSweater walked in the room, pushing in a spare bed. "Hang up that phoneright now," she snapped.

"Mrs. McSweater, I am simply abiding by the rules.""Well, you're gonna have to let it slide, because these three have

permission to be here.""Thank you, Mrs. McSweater," said Dad.

"No problem. I know Daphne. I see her in church every Sunday morning.I believe she's in the choir. She's such a sweetheart. I can understand why youdon't wanna leave her."

"Thanks. At least you understand."The uptight woman sighed. "Fine, you can stay." She stomped out of the

room, aggravated."Don't mind her," said Nurse McSweater. "She's a bitter woman. We call

her The Dragon.""I can see why," I agreed."Well, we're about ready to let her go. Oh, I brought an extra bed. Do you

mind sharing?"

"No," Grandma and I said together.About an hour or so later, we were all fast asleep. Grandma and I wereasleep in the spare bed, and Dad was sleeping in Daphne's bed. He still had hisarm around her, which led him to a heartwarming dream.

In the dream, Dad and Daphne were lying in the sand of a gorgeousbeach during a very colourful sunset. They were holding onto each other andtrading kisses. This dream took place a couple weeks into the future. The twowere already married, and they were on their honeymoon in Hawaii.

"We did it," said Dad. "We took a big step in our relationship and did whatwe really wanted."

"Oh, Sam, I wouldn't want to be with anyone else in this world. I love youso much. I don't ever want this to end."

"It doesn't have to. Sweetie, we're married now. This is forever.""We can spend all of eternity together.""Exactly.""Do you want more children?""Yeah. You know, Allie's always wanted a brother or sister.""Awww, I think she deserves one.""Yeah, she does."



"She's such a sweet, little thing. I love her so much, and now, I get to be amother to her."

Dad kissed Daphne. "Baby, when you got shot... I thought I was gonnalose you. I was so scared. I'd already lost someone very important to me, and Ididn't wanna go through it again."

"I was scared, too, Baby.""You were unconscious.""No. I mean when the man pointed the gun at me.""Why did he do that to you?""He's a serial killer.""Well, if his job is killing cereal, why did he try to kill you? What, he

thought you were a Frosted Flake?"Daphne laughed out loud."I'm kidding. Well... not completely.""What do you mean?""About you being a Frosted Flake, you're as sweet as one."

"Aww.""Maybe even sweeter.""Aww, you're sweet, too, Sweetheart.""You're my strawberry shortcake.""Aww, you're my sweet potato pie.""You're my hot cocoa with a mountain of a million marshmallows.""You're my peanut butter finger with fifty pounds of sugar.""My chocolate brownie.""My cherry lollipop.""My banana pudding with whipped cream.""Awww, my precious, little, baby-faced cup cake with sugar, sprinkles,

candy hearts, and a cherry on top."Dad blushed and laughed. "Oh, stop it, Daphne. You're makin' me hot.""Awww, come here, Precious." Daphne squeezed Dad and refused to let

go.Then, Dad woke up. He looked around the room, and it dawned on him

that it was all a dream. He was still lying with an unconscious Daphne with hisarm around her. He looked at her angelic face, and tears fell from his eyes. Hehid his face and cried.

Moments later, he felt someone kissing his cheek and wrapping him up intheir arms. He figured it was just a dream, but he looked at Daphne and saw thatshe was awake. She gently stroked his hair. "Shh, it's okay, Baby," shewhispered. "It's okay. I'm here."

"Daphne?""Baby, I'm not going anywhere."Dad was so happy to see Daphne awake and alive. He could barely

breathe. "Daphne! Oh, God, you're okay!" He threw his arms around her, cryingtears of joy!

Daphne giggled sweetly."How you feelin', Honey?"



"I feel wonderful, Sweetie.""But... weren't you shot?""Yes, but I feel no pain at all, not anymore.""Wow, you really are a strong person.""For some reason, my body rejects death."

"Well, good.""I might even be out of here in the morning.""So, you're really feeling no pain?""None at all.""That's amazing. If I got shot, I'd probably be screaming in agony.""Aww, and I would be there to heal you.""You've healed me from a lot already.""Aww, Sweetie, I just want you to be happy.""I am happy.""So am I."Then, Grandma and I woke up.

"What's goin' on here?" asked Grandma. Then, she saw that Daphne wasawake. "Daphne? You're awake?""I am," Daphne answered. "Who are you?""I'm Sam's mama." Grandma ran to Daphne and hugged her. "Oh,

Daphne, I'm so relieved you're alright!"I ran to Daphne and joined in on the hug. "Daphne, I was so scared!"Just then, the doctor walked in to check on Daphne. He saw us in a group

hug, laughing and smiling, and he felt relieved. "I came to check on MissDaphne Sanders," he said.

"Oh, I'm over here," said Daphne. "I'm alright.""How do you feel?"

"I feel wonderful. No pain at all.""That's great news. Well, we're gonna have to get some x-rays to makesure, but you should be out of here by noon."

"Thank you, doctor. Thank you so much.""You're very welcome. I will be back in a few minutes to run the x-rays."The doctor was right. Daphne was able to get out of the hospital by noon.

Dad invited her over to have the dinner they were gonna have the night before.



Chapter 11

So, that night, we reheated the spaghetti and meatballs, lit up the candlesagain, and we checked on Daphne's slice of cake in the refrigerator. It was stillgood, and the ring was still there. We placed the bowl of spaghetti and the plateof meatballs on the table, next to the candles. Last but not least, we turned onthe music.

Once again, we waited in the living room for Daphne's arrival. This time,she showed up, and she was alright.

"Hello, everyone," Daphne greeted sweetly as she entered the house.She went into the dining room and looked at the setup. "Ohh, this looks sobeautiful, and I love the music." She turned to Dad. "Did you plan this?"

"We all did," said Dad.I dimmed the lights as we all sat down to eat."This looks delicious," said Daphne. "I love spaghetti.""Do you want meatballs in your spaghetti, Honey?" asked Grandma.

"Oh, no, thank you. I'm a vegetarian.""Can I get you something to drink?""May I have water, please?""Sure. I'll be right back.""Thank you, Mrs. Matthews."Grandma went into the kitchen to fill up a glass of water for Daphne. She

brought it back in and set it next to her plate. "There you go, Honey.""Thank you.""You're welcome, and you don't have to be so formal with me. You can

call me Mom.""Aww, you're such a sweetheart."

"Well, from the way Sam talks about you, you're already family.""Awww! I see all of you as part of my family, too. I love each of you.""We love you, too, Daphne," I said, smiling at her."This was delicious, everyone.""I'm glad you liked it," said Dad."Don't get up yet," added Grandma. "I made dessert. Sam, Honey, will

you help me cut the cake?""Sure."While Dad and Grandma were in the kitchen, cutting up the cake, I talked

to Daphne."How are you feeling, Sweetie?" asked Daphne. "I know you had a rough

week.""Much better.""That's good to know."Before we could say anything else, Dad and Grandma came back in the

room with the slices of cake, including the one with the engagement ring in it."Here's your cake, Daphne," said Grandma."Ooh, this looks delicious," said Daphne. Then, she caught a glimpse of

the ring. "What's this?" she asked, pulling it out. "Awww, is this for me? It's



gorgeous!""Yes, it is," answered Dad. "Daphne, when I lost Kaitlyn, I never thought I

would fall in love again. I thought I would be alone for the rest of my life. Then, Imet you. When I saw you in the musical, I couldn't believe how beautiful youwere. I mean, not just your looks, but you were so beautiful all over. You sang

like an angel, and when I met you backstage, I was expecting to meet a real lifeangel. I did. I never expected to fall in love so fast, but I did. Our first date wasamazing. After just one weekend, I knew I wanted to be with you for the rest of my life. So, Daphne Sanders, will you marry me?"

Tears of joy shot out of Daphne's eyes, and she threw her arms aroundDad, kissing him passionately. "Oh, Baby! Yes! Yes, I'll marry you!"

"You will?""I will, Baby! I will!"Dad lifted Daphne out of her seat and held her. It was probably the

sweetest thing I ever witnessed. Seeing my dad so happy again made mewanna cry, and seeing him with someone like Daphne made me giddy.

The wedding was about a month later. We had it at the church Daphnegoes to every Sunday morning to sing. I was the Maid of Honour. Nicole wasthe flower girl. Daphne's younger sister, Clara, was a bride's maid. Jalen wasDad's best man, and of course, Dad's friends were his groom's men. Thewedding was amazing!

We had the reception in the fellowship hall. It was one heck of a blast.We danced a little, had some really good food, and the best part was bonding.

"Daphne, Darling, you looked so beautiful at the alter," said Daphne'smother, giving her a hug. "I can't believe my little girl's married."

Daphne kissed her mom's cheek. "Aww, Mum, I love you so much.""I love you, too, Darling."

Soon, it was time for me to propose a toast for Dad and Daphne. I stoodup and tapped my glass to get everyone's attention. "Guys, may I please haveyour attention for a little while? I'd like to make a toast."

Everyone in the room stopped talking and listened."I'm Allison Matthews. I'm Sam's daughter and Daphne's step-daughter.

When I first found out that my dad had a new girlfriend, I felt kind of insecureabout it. I thought he was replacing my mom with another woman. Then, I metDaphne, and she and I became best friends. I realised something when I wastalking to her. She wouldn't take the place of my birth mom. She wouldn't eventry. She's too good of a person to even think of doing that. What she can do isbe my second mom, and she is. I am so lucky to know someone as awesome asDaphne. Even through my insecurities, I never doubted that she was a goodperson, and I never disliked her. I could tell how nice she was from the way Daddescribed her. Well, he was right. She's probably the sweetest person you'llever meet. A few weeks ago, some idiot had the nerve to point a gun at her andpull the trigger. I was so scared. I thought Daphne was gonna die. I mean, shewas in the hospital, unconscious, and the doctors said she had a very smallchance of survival. Then, she woke up, and she said she was feeling no pain.Daphne is not just some pretty face. She has a beautiful voice, a heart of pure



gold, and she's incredibly strong. I am more than happy to have her in my family.Daphne, I love you so much."

Daphne brushed away a few tears."So, to Daphne and my dad." I raised my glass, and so did everyone else."To Daphne and Sam," everyone else repeated.

I approached Daphne. "I meant everything I said."Daphne hugged me. "Aww, I know, Baby. I love you, too. I will alwayslove you."

That night, Dad and Daphne were lying in bed together, in each other'sarms.

"Where do you wanna go for our honeymoon?" asked Dad."I've always wanted to go to Hawaii.""Really?""Yes. It's such a magical place--the pure ocean, the sandy beaches, and

the sunsets--all so full of magic.""When you were in the hospital, I had a dream about our honeymoon. We

were in Hawaii, lying on the beach, and talking about our life together. Now, thatdream is a reality.""I've always believed dreams can come true.""I've always liked that philosophy, but after I lost Kaitlyn, I didn't believe it

anymore. Then, I met you.""Now, you believe."While they talked, I came and knocked on their bedroom door."Come in, Honey," said Dad.I opened the door and walked in."Are you alright, Precious?" asked Daphne."I couldn't sleep from all the excitement. Could I sleep with you guys?"

"Sure, Honey," said Dad."Climb in with us," added Daphne.I climbed in between the two. "Is it okay if I sleep in the middle? I feel

safer that way.""Awww, of course, it is, Baby. Come here." Daphne put her arms around

me. "Come on, Sam. Join in."Dad did so."This feels really good," I said."Do you feel safe now?" asked Dad."Yeah.""That's what we're here for, Honey.""Baby, I know it was hard for you to adjust to your father dating again. It's

normal for a teenage girl to feel insecure. It's normal for any teenager or child tofeel that way, but I think that once they get to know the person their parent isdating, they realise that these are changes for the better."

"I know that now," I said. "I love you guys so much. Daphne, will youplease sing to me?"

"Awww, I'd love to. I'll sing to both of you." So, she kept holding onto us,and she sang us a really sweet lullaby. I love the way she sounds when she



sings. It's so sweet. She kissed us good night after singing. "I love you bothvery much. You'll always be my babies. Always."

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