"So, what do you think?" Jessica asked, holding the dress to my body.
I graciously took the garment into my hands and compared it to myself in the mirror. The cloth was elegant and made with a quality of the likes I'd never seen.
"You bought this for me?" I asked in astonishment as I dropped my mouth open.
She nodded. "Of course, I did. You didn't need the added pressure of shopping. It's time to celebrate!"
I giggled and said, "You're too kind, Jess."
"Anytime! You're like a sister to me," she confessed. I felt a pang in my chest—not of pain but of happiness. I tried to hold back my tears. "Well don't just stand there. Try it on. I bet it fits perfectly!"
"Okay, I will!" I answered. Her enthusiasm was contagious.
As I was trying on the dress, I asked, "Who is this party for again?"
"Arthur is throwing it for his father and Caroline."