Another brilliant piece from a GUNNAS WRITING MASTERCLASS WRITER
The first time Else wore it, she was unprepared for just how fabulous it would feel. The swish and the swagger of it all. Shoulders back, swathed in a beauty queen gauze of femininity, as she clip clopped down the footpath. She loved the way walking became an art form. There was something timeless and rather wonderful about it. She sashayed into the pharmacy and handed over a prescription.
“You look wonderful”. A woman tapped her arm. “No one dresses up anymore. I miss wearing dresses. It’s all slacks now. A shame”.
The second time it was a warmer day. Else felt clammy on the plastic seat. Outside it was melting and inside the split system was doing its best, recycling the sick air into the waiting room. A man staggered, berating the triage nurse, a young mum jiggled and soothed a squally infant in a nappy and singlet. A television screen displayed numbers counter lunch style.
“Hopefully it won’t be too much longer”. Charlie squeezed her hand.
Flipping up the petticoat the nurse attaching the wires admired her garters and stockings.
The third time her legs felt silky smooth against the cool swish of the nylon. Charlie slid his hand along the back of her thigh. They were dressed and heading out. The night felt full of expectation. Invariably the phone began to ring and vibrated through their dinner. They ignored it, holding hands below the table.
There were so many times after that. It became a habit and in turn her something old. Else wore it under swathes of tulle. She walked towards Charlie, a little stateliness, a little sass.
Swish.