My reflection told me I'd lost weight, just like the bridal magazines ordered, only I doubted they'd recommend my particular method of loss as something conducive to mental health or a long, happy marriage.

Good thing I wasn't your typical bride then, huh?

I'd felt pretty guilty over losing, not just my dress to Rosebert's attentions, but Mom's as well, the gown burned up with my bed and breakfast.

"The last of my worries, sweetie," she'd said as I'd ...