Through that fog and mist of both the morning and her memories, she thought she caught a glimpse of an image that had been tucked away in some long-ago dream: she thought she saw a castle.  Her mind sped quickly back to that moment years ago and she unknowingly slowed the car down, racking her memory to recall where and when she had seen that vision before.  

Thomas made his way onto the path that made up the driveway and gave them a wave and smile.  Cat bounded up in front of him chasing something only she could see before hiding in the grass and pouncing onto one of Thomas’s feet when he passed by.

“No chainsaw,” said Allyson with a big smile and a wave back, “but he does have the cutest black cat with him.”

“Quit hiding and come out here you two,” said Claire who was now thoroughly enjoying herself, “you must see this place, and the guy and the cat. He’s cute.”

The little kitten sat confused for a minute and then started its way toward Thomas before laying down by his head.  Thomas woke and simply said, “I missed you, Cat.”

Thomas and Cat traveled the world in their imagination, visiting castles and faraway lands.  

Thomas led Vada onto the floor, which was empty, and all eyes turned on them.  Thomas bowed and Vada curtsied.  The music swelled, and Vada immediately knew that he had requested it. The song was “So Close” from the Disney movie ‘Enchanted’ by Jon McLaughlin. He took Vada’s hand and pulled her in close and whispered in her ear, “Let’s seal the deal.”  Vada looked over his shoulder, Victor and Raul, smiling and looking at them. “Thank you, Thomas,” Vada whispered back.

Thomas and Vada, as always, positioned themselves at the bottom of the grand staircase to greet their guests. Brittany was the first to descend, transformed from the girl-next-door into the belle of the ball, wearing a bright yellow dress and matching heels, her radiant smile lighting up the room. Ella Beth followed in a red velvet gown that demanded attention, her blonde hair catching the chandelier’s light and creating a golden halo. Allyson came next, in a soft blue gown that complemented her blonde hair and blue eyes, exuding natural grace and understated elegance. “You all look amazing,” Thomas said, admiring the women. “No wonder you’ve captured everyone’s attention.” Ella Beth smiled knowingly, hinting that Claire’s entrance would outshine them all. Right on cue, Claire appeared at the top of the stairs, embodying Old Hollywood glamour in a black strapless gown adorned with sparkling sequins, her graceful descent reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. “She’s our showstopper,” Allyson laughed, as Claire floated down the stairs with timeless elegance.