for myself.
I stood in front of the mirror for nearly twenty minutes, trying to convince myself I didn’t need it.
Red had never been my color.
Red was bold.
Confident.
Visible.
And I had spent most of my life learning not to draw attention to myself.
But for once, I wanted something simply because it made me feel beautiful.
So I bought the dress.
I had no idea how important it would become.
Two weeks later, Camille learned about the anniversary party.
She called me sounding delighted.
“Liv! Mom told me you booked Alderwood! That place is gorgeous!”
“It’s lovely,” I agreed.
“We should plan it together. I’ll help you host.”
“Everything is already arranged.”
“Oh, don’t be ridiculous. You’ll need help. It’ll be much more fun if we do it together.”
I hesitated.
Then I agreed.
It seemed harmless.
At first, Camille began adding guests.
