I hung up the phone and informed Marta, who was bathing the children. Leaving the milk on the table, I returned to my room to dress. "I'm going to look splendid today," I reassured myself. The attire Mima had chosen for me was indeed elegant. A white blouse adorned with frills hugged my frame, paired with a black skirt that fell to my knees, complemented by matching shoes and purse. My grandmother entered at that moment, gesturing for me to let my hair down. After applying my usual makeup, with just a touch of blush, I prepared to embrace my new role as a wife.

"Do I look alright, Mima?"...