“I don’t know if this is a good idea.” I glanced toward Vicky, unsure. Another dinner… Why did they keep forcing me to be in their presence? The last time I went to dinner, it was a disaster.

She smiled, gripping my hand with hers. “It’s going to be fine. Stop worrying so much.”

“You said that last time,” I replied. “I have a bad feeling about this.”

Vicky had outdone herself again while dressing me. My long hair had been curled and pinned up in a partial updo. My makeup ...