Excerpt: Being Andi

As I look into the full length mirror, I run my hand over the silky fabric. The lilac nightie seems to caress every curve of my body. I turn sideways and slide my feet into my mother’s heels. I am lifted three inches off of the ground. Twirling around, I catch a glimpse of my ass. That is huge! Better not have dinner. The faint sounds from the kitchen carry down the hallway to my room. My mom is preparing dinner. How do I get out of eating? She knocks on my door.
“It’s time for dinner.”
“I’ll be right out,” I say.
“Aright. I set the table so you will have to do the dishes tonight.”
“Sure thing, mom. I’ll be right there.”
Her foot steps fade as she returns to the kitchen. I kick off her high heel shoes. Then I tug at the night gown. My arms get stuck and I struggle a bit then the fabric gives and I emerge from beneath the lilac silk. Slipping on my jeans, I glance one more time in the mirror. Skinny but not skinny enough. I pull a sweat shirt on and then hide my mother’s clothes under the blankets on my messy bed. I will put them away later. I open my bedroom door and am greeted by our cat, Princess. She rubs up against my legs, tripping my up. I shoo her away and make my way to the dinner table.