Putting everything in order for the dinner

Arlene

I stood in front of my closet, hands on my hips, staring at the array of dresses hanging neatly in a row. Nothing screamed "meet the parents of the guy you're absolutely falling for." Everything felt too casual, too formal, or just… not right. I groaned and flopped dramatically onto my bed, burying my face in a pillow. 

"Why does picking a dress feel like a life-or-death situation?" I muttered into the fabric. 

My phone buzzed beside me. I grabbed it and saw Laura's name lighting up the screen. Perfect timing. 

"Hey, sis!" I said, answering with a smile. 

"Why do you look like you've fought a battle and lost?" Laura asked, her face scrunched with amusement. 

I rolled over and propped the phone against a stack of books so she could see me. "Because I have lost. To my closet. Nothing fits the vibe, Laura! I need something… perfect."