I had cut my waist length hair to my shoulder and tamed my wild waves into straight. Just like Tess, my sister. She and my brother, Tobias, were twins. So obviously, Ace was her best friend, too. I had once heard him say he liked Tess’s hair. So, I turned my hair just like hers. Though hers is blonde where mine is chestnut.

“Short hair is in fashion now. And Ace likes them short,” I replied, checking my manicured nails. Just like Tess’s.

Just like Ace preferred. All his girlfriends were just like my sister. Beautiful and classy. Yes, I was jealous of them. But then they all were temporary. Once we’d be together, then there wouldn’t be anyone else in his life other than me.

I blushed at the thought.

So, I decided to be like them, taking inspiration from my sister. Maybe he would notice me then?

And today’s whole makeover was the proof. Dressed like Tess, styled like Tess. I even sneaked her favorite perfume from her room.

“Isn’t this dress too short, Cassie?”

Though I wanted to wear something like Tess, I was uncomfortable in them. She looked good in those tight little dresses. She had a good amount on both front and behind. While I was flat in both sections. Well, a fifteen-year-old couldn’t have any more.

“Is not! You’re wearing that and that’s final! Don’t you want to make Ace notice you?” She raised her brow.

“Fine!” I said, taking a deep breath.

Come on, Em. You can do this.

“Let’s go now. Otherwise, we will miss your brother and sister’s grand entry,” she chirped, sauntering outside.

Today was my older siblings’ nineteenth birthday. And every occasion at Hutton family was known to be grand. No one wanted to miss this special event. Almost half of the renowned families of the town were invited today.

When we all reached the hall, I kept fidgeting in my place. My hands were clammy, and my chest thudded. I was nervous for tonight’s meeting with Ace. And my too short dress made me even more uncomfortable.

I spotted my parents in the crowd. They stood close to each other, as always.

They were always joined at the hip. Even after twenty years of marriage, they were so madly in love with each other. And that made me hope. If Ace and I would be like that someday…

“Em!” Mom’s voice broke my daydream.

Smiling, I padded towards them.

“Oh, my! Look at you. My little baby is looking so beautiful today!” she gushed. Her smile was blinding.

“You think?” I blushed.

“Of course, baby. You should do it more.”

Dad stayed quiet. He didn’t seem to be pleased with me dressing up like that. Opposite of my nature.

“You didn’t like the gown I brought for you, princess?” he asked.

I did. Very much. But Ace wouldn’t like that.