Lost Me Gained Regret

I slipped into the gown layer by layer, following the sequence meticulously.

I was bracing myself for a tight squeeze around the waistline, ready to suck in my breath so Christine could fasten the buttons. I figured, once I return the dress, I'd slim down a bit, and by the wedding day, it would fit just right.

But to my surprise, I felt no pinch.

"It fits quite well, actually. Looks like we won't need to alter it, though we might loosen it around the bust a bit."

Christine spun me towards the mirror, clearly impressed. "It's absolutely stunning on you! Gorgeous!"

I admired my reflection, pleased. This was exactly the gown I had envisioned.

For the tuxedo, I didn't even need to see Gregory try it on to know he'd look dashing.

"I think it's fine as is. The bust might seem a tad snug now, but it'll fit better in time."

Christine nodded in understanding. She opened the door to call in the owner.

The moment the owner stepped in, their eyes lit up. "It's as if it was tailor-made for you."

Then, they added, "I can't lend this dress out..."

"Eh, why not? I thought we had an agreement," Christine was puzzled.

"I'd rather

ancestors passed, they left a word about finding the rightful person. But all these years, we didn't know who that would be. Seeing this lady today made it clear." "Yes, yes,

me, she added, "But we can't accept such a generous gift

clothing. They might seem valuable because

if it were that

was impeccable, the silk and fabric

a

in value. The fact that this dress is still in pristine condition and retains its elegance shows how much you've cherished it." "Even though its value might be immeasurable, I still can't accept it without giving something

owner insisted, "If I say it's a gift, then please accept

then grant

request."

"Please," I urged.

one

care of this dress, and hopefully, it will find

any further and accepted the

I held the two gowns close, reluctant to let them

me, "You owe me big time for

I nodded, "Of course."

...

Villas, stepping out of the elevator, we were greeted

too, "Had I known the place next door was for sale, 'd have bitten the bullet and bought