“Hm,” Bella says flatly. “Now, put on this shirt, and this sweater.”
I frown at the burnt-orange sweater in Bella’s hands. “Isn’t it too hot for a sweater?”
Bella stares at me, unamused.
“Bella, if it’s hot, I’m going to sweat through it.”
“Wear extra deodorant, then.”
I pull the white button-down shirt off the hanger and slide it on, fumbling with the buttons until it’s fastened to the top. Reluctantly, I slip the rust-colored sweater over the shirt. Admittedly, it’s not a thick sweater, and if I’m generous with my antiperspirant, I should be fine.
“Wow!” Charli exclaims. “You look like a different person!”
I step back into the bathroom to see for myself—and holy shit. Idolook like a different person. The brownish-orange of my sweater perfectly complements the deep navy of my jeans, and the white dress shirt underneath ties it all together.
“Who is this diva?” Bella muses, admiring my reflection beside me.
“Is it slay?” I ask.
Bella’s smile fades, and she rolls her eyes again. “You ruined it, unc.”
I furrow my brow, confused. “Unc?”
“Charli, it’s your turn,” Bella declares, flopping onto my bed and pulling out her phone.
Charli nods eagerly. “Okay, what about these?” She points to the nicest shoes I own—a pair of brown penny loafers.
“Sure,” I say. “Socks?”
Charli hands me her pick—brand-new argyle dress socks still with the Target tags. Shockingly, they’re blue and gold, not the exact right shade, but I think they might still work.
I slip on the socks and shoes, then look at the girls. “Well, what do y’all think?”
“Slay!” Charli shouts.
Reluctantly, Bella agrees. “Slay.”
“Slay!” I echo, pumping my fist.
Thursday, November 27, 2025
(Thanksgiving Day)
“What’s my uncle’s name?”
“David.”
“Good. What about my youngest nephew?”
Oliver takes several seconds to think. “Cooper, right? Steph and Cody’s youngest?”
I smile. “You got it! Who is Harper, and how is she related to me?”
“Harper is the daughter of Taylor and Danny. Taylor is your first cousin, so Harper is your first cousin once removed?”
“Correct! Good job!”
Oliver pumps his fist. “Yes! I’m on fire! Come on, give me another one.”
