“Russet or sunburst, I’m thinking autumnal with a cottage core vibe,” Hanna said.

“Like orange. This isn’t Halloween, sweetheart. Orange isn’t for weddings. How about petal pink? What do you think Helena? Look at this one,” Mrs. Carmody said.

An confection of pink tulle and satin was thrust into Helena’s face. She fumbled with the bridesmaid’s dress. She was supposed to be the buffer between her baby sister and her sister’s future mother-in-law. Hanna’s face was flushed as Mrs. Carmody selected another pink dress. This one was a mass of bubblegum ruffles.

“Halloween! Look this is my wedding.”

Hoisting the two gowns up like a fluffy barrier, Helena separated the women before sparks began to fly. The bridal shop clerk hurried over with a distraction of cold cheap white wine. Helene ditched the dresses and hustled her sister towards the cocktail dresses. In a flurry of crepe and georgette, Hanna was venting. Helena’s face hurt from fake smiling. Nodding, Helena made soothing noises. The clerk and her mom were running interference to prevent Allan’s mother from sharing her suggestions with Hanna.

She brushed against crushed velvet. I should be bridal dress shopping, Helena thought. The image of Michael made her fingers clench the fabric. She felt his hands sliding up her back when they met at Skyline. Helena was wearing her favorite shirt dress, midnight blue velvet. Michael couldn’t keep his eyes off her. Brilliant and beautiful, Helene remembered shimmering under his gaze as they talked all night. He wouldn’t let her wear that dress anymore. Said she looked like a whore. She looked around nervously before forcing herself to smile again. It’s okay, we’re okay. He let me come dress shopping with my family. Things are fine, she thought.

“That’s pretty, I guess. It would compliment the auburn tea roses.”

The sound of her baby sister’s voice brought Helena back to the present. The entire wedding party had gathered around her and the dusty plum gown crushed in her hands. Mrs. Carmody was droning on about baby’s breath. The clerk showed up with mimosas. Her mom tried to catch Helena’s eye, wanting to say something, anything to her girl. Helena hurried deeper into the rows.