"What should I wear?" Astrid frantically rummaged through her closet in search of something nice and presentable. But as she recalled Aillard's comment during their earlier phone call, Astrid felt almost tempted to curse her boyfriend for his words. Today was the day they were supposed to visit Aillard's mother, and she had just learned it was also her birthday.
Unaware that today was Aillard's mother's birthday, Astrid hadn't bought a gift for her. Aillard had only mentioned a simple dinner with family and some relatives, omitting the crucial detail. Now pressed for time, she grabbed her phone and tried calling her friend Trinity, intending to ask for help in buying a gift. Unfortunately, Trinity was nowhere to be found.
"Dammit, Trinity! Answer your damn phone. I need your help," she m
