In the Dress Shop

You are browsing a rack of dresses, lost in your own little world, when you realise that someone has been trying to catch your attention.

“Psst! Over ‘ere!”

You turn, and see a dark head peeking out of the nearest changing cubicle. It’s a young woman. She looks a bit embarrassed, but also relieved that you’ve heard her. She gives you a hopeful smile. 

“Would you do me a favour?”

You nod to show willing. She scrunches up her face as she whispers an explanation: “I’m stuck in this dress!”

“Oh!” You do your best to keep a straight face, knowing that it’s never funny for the person in the actual predicament.

You hurry over as she pulls the curtain aside. This is apparently enough to assure her that you are in her corner, on her team. Though you were strangers a moment ago, she immediately gives you the full run down. She sounds relieved to have a confidante.

“I don’t know what the blinkin’ ‘eck I’ve done! I slipped it on over me head, and I thought I’d found most of the buttons. But now it won’t budge, and I’m scared I’ll rip it. Maybe you can see what’s happened?”

She’s craning her neck around, trying to see the back of the dress. From your position, however, you spot the problem immediately. “Ah! There’s just one tiny hook you’ve missed, up here at the back of the neckline. It’s sort of concealed in the fabric. Would you like me to…?” “Please.”

You quickly undo the fastening, hoping that your fingers aren’t too cold. Properly undone, the dress hangs more loosely on her, and she breathes a sigh of relief. “You’re a lifesaver!”

Able to relax for the first time in minutes, the young woman looks thoughtfully at her reflection. “What do you think of this dress, anyway? I quite liked it, till it tried to trap me.” You’re pleased to be consulted. And it does suit her. You grin. “I’d say it’s a winner.” She beams. “Hey – thanks, chick.”