From then on I had to dress in my "ugly ducking" clothes when I got home from school, do my chores, and stay dressed as Prunella until I went to bed.From then on I had to dress in my "ugly ducking" clothes when I got home from school, do my chores, and stay dressed as Prunella until I went to bed. I didn't know what mother's plan was, but I knew that she had one. One that I wouldn't like. One day after arriving home and donning my maids outfit, Mother said, "Today instead of your usual chores, we are going shopping. I think it is about time you learned something about groceries and how to pick them out. You'll be a great help to me when you can do the shopping yourself." I was delighted to get out of cleaning. "Wait, I'll change my clothes." "That won't be necessary, dear, you can go as Prunella." The blood drained from my face. "But, Mother, ..." "No buts, you'll go as Prunella!" "But, I can't ..." WHACK! The slap brought tears to my eyes. I could hardly breathe as we walked to the shopping center. My heart was in my throat and I couldn't look to my left or right. What would I do if any of my friends saw me? I was glad to finally get inside the grocery store, but as we entered, two cute girls, about my age, walked by. One was wearing a pretty dress, and nylons and heels, and the other had on a sheer blouse that showed off her slip, skirt, nylons and bobby socks and loafers. |