me prepare for an important occasion.

I changed dresses three times that evening.

At college, I earned a partial scholarship. I was proud of myself because I had worked hard for it.

My mother looked at the acceptance letter and asked why I hadn’t applied to more prestigious universities.

When I introduced Evan to her, she studied him from head to toe before saying, “Well, at least he seems dependable.”

Evan laughed politely at the time, but later, in the car, he asked whether she disliked him.

“That’s just how