Chapter 21: He Complimented Her Beauty

"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."