Timmy peers anxiously out the airplane window, clutching his backpack to his chest. His heart pounds with excitement and a touch of worry, as he scans the unfamiliar landscape for a glimpse of his grandmother. The airport is nearly empty, the only sounds the distant hum of engines and the cawing of blackbirds. Grandmother, wrapped in a deep green shawl, awaits him at the baggage claim, her wise eyes sparkling beneath the brim of her hat.
Timmy feels his stomach sink as he realizes his suitcase is gone. He glances down at his mud-splattered jeans and rumpled T-shirt, feeling suddenly small and exposed. "Don’t worry, darling. We’ll sort something out," Grandmother says softly, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. The gentle warmth in her voice makes the cold, echoing room feel a little less lonely.
Grandmother leads Timmy up a creaking staircase, her footsteps steady and reassuring. In a cozy upstairs parlor, she sits beside him and pulls a faded photo album from the shelf. "Your cousin Susan Ann used to stay here, too. She left plenty of lovely things behind—perhaps you could find something to wear?" Timmy hesitates, picturing himself in his cousin’s clothes, uncertainty flickering in his eyes.
Timmy stares at his reflection in the misty mirror, debating what to do. He knows he cannot stay in his soiled clothes, and the promise of something clean and soft is tempting. Gathering his courage, he walks to the bathroom where grandmother has prepared a wonderfully warm bubble bath. After relaxing for an hour, he dries off and pads down the hallway, his bare feet echoing softly on the wooden floorboards.
Timmy runs his fingers hesitantly over the smooth fabric, curiosity overtaking his doubts. He slips into the pink frock, feels the tights hug his legs, and the slippers fit snugly on his feet. Looking in the mirror, he is surprised by how natural and comfortable it feels—almost magical. He twirls once, then again, giggling as the skirt sways around him.
Timmy runs to her, his face alight with newfound joy and confidence. "Thank you, Grandmother. I didn’t think I’d like it, but I do," he exclaims, hugging her tightly. "Oh, my dear, you look simply wonderful. Wear whatever makes you happy," Grandmother replies, smoothing his hair. In that moment, the mansion feels less shadowy and more like home, and Timmy knows he’ll be glad to wear Susan Ann’s clothes from now on, especially with his grandmother by his side.
