Makeover MAGIC

Angie was stunned to find out what her daughter had done

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Congratulations, Mrs Brady! I'm Stella Brookes from Kim magazine. You've been chosen for our Mother's Day mum and daughter makeover feature!' the excited female voice on the phone began.

'What?' I was absolutely stunned by the call.

Why on earth would a popular glossy monthly like Kim want to feature a 58-year-old, average-looking, part-time librarian like me? I thought.

I took a breath. We now lived in a world where things weren’t all they seemed. Was this phone call even genuine?

'You're from Kim magazine?' I prompted.

'Yes. It was your daughter Rachel who nominated you,' Stella explained.

'Oh, I see. She didn't mention to me that she'd contacted your magazine.'

I realised that the phone call was genuine. Rachel had clearly kept this secret.

'Well, what a wonderful surprise for you!' Stella gushed.

Hmm. Was this a nice surprise? I wasn't sure...

'I'm the senior fashion editor. Now, Mrs Brady, keep next Monday free, as we'll be whisking you both away to a studio, where you'll be pampered and preened, then photographed in brand-new outfits. Expect a car outside your door at 9am. I must get on now. See you soon!'

Before I could ask any further questions, Stella ended the call.

I sank into an armchair. My mind whirled. What a bolt from the blue!

I ought to feel thrilled at being selected. But with grey strands peppering my hair, and my nails all scraggy, plus a crisscross of eye wrinkles, the last thing I wanted was to be dressed up, made up and paraded about in high heels. I felt quite cross with my daughter and...

Then Rachel rang.

'Mum, guess what! Someone from Kim magazine has just rung me!' she squealed. 'We've been chosen for a special Mother's Day double-page photo feature.'

'I know. They called me too. But listen, love, I'm not sure whether I want to take up their offer.' I kept my tone gentle.