~ Next Midnight ~

I stood in front of the mirror, hardly recognizing myself in the midnight blue gown. Eight years ago, I would have worn something like this without a second thought, floating through ballrooms on Michael's arm as Mrs. Walton.

Tonight was different. Tonight, I was attending the Halgate annual charity gala as Aria Campbell, CEO of Campbell Designs, mother of twins, survivor.

"You look beautiful, Mom," Alex said from the doorway of my bedroom. He was already dressed in his little tuxedo, hair slicked back in an attempt to tame his cowlick.

"Thank you, sweetheart." I smiled at his reflection as I fastened my earrings. "Is your...