So when she slid the box across the table with a bright, expectant smile and said, “I got you something to wear for the wedding,” I blinked in surprise.

“Oh, Alice, that’s very kind of you,” I said, cautiously undoing the ribbon.

Inside lay a pristine, flowing maxi dress, white, delicate, with subtle lace detailing around the sleeves and neckline. My heart sank.

It was white.

I blinked again, thinking maybe the lighting was playing tricks on me. But no, it was as white as freshly fallen snow.

My immediate thought was, she’s setting me up.