Blue Satin
"My goodness!" Maria exclaimed. "Look at all the people!"
Beside her, Brita clasped her hands together. "It looks like the whole village is here!"
Maria nodded and flattened her dress. It was the first festival of the season, and everyone was eager to celebrate the welcome return of the warm weather.
Brita turned, her face faltering a little. "Will your uncle mind your being out late tonight?"
Maria shook her head. "He's probably already here, by the beer stand!"
Brita laughed. "Maybe he'll be asleep all day tomorrow!"
Maria laughed and looked down at her dress. It was a little out-dated. But she had soaked it for a week, giving it new life and making it so white it nearly glowed. She tightened the sash tied around her waist. She looked up Brita, who bore an identical blue trimming around a more fashionable white dress.
"Thank you again for the sash, Brita," she said softly.
Her friend smiled. "You're welcome. It looks lovely with your dress."
"Hello, Brita, Maria." Both girls started and turned to the new voice. Paul stood before them, looking uncharacteristically shy.
"Hello, Paul!" Brita exclaimed, taking his hand and shaking it heartily. "It looks like the festival is under way!"
Paul nodded and looked over at Maria. "You like nice Mar – both of you," he stammered.
Maria's cheeks warmed, and she fussed with her blue ribbon. "Thank you," she whispered.
He smiled again before turning and walking away, a little too quickly.
Brita turned to her friend. "He's in a mood!"
Maria laughed and rolled her eyes. "He's all right," she said and clutched her friend's arm. "Let's go! I can hear the music starting!"