❀ Amy ❀
The cocktail dress itched against my skin in a way that had nothing to do with the fabric and everything to do with the nerves that buzzed beneath it. It wasn’t a bad dress, not really. It was a simple black number I had picked up at the local clothing store for what felt like a ridiculous price. It was modest, but flattering, with thin straps and a skirt that flared just enough to make me feel like I belonged somewhere. Anywhere. Still, every step toward Karen Peterson’s house made me hyper-aware of the dress. The money I had spent. The pressure to look like I fit into this world.
“Do I look ok, Mommy?” Eva asked as she tugged at the sleeve of her pink sundress as we walked hand in hand. I smiled down at her as I reached out and smoothed a curl behind her ear.
“You look so pre
