All the money Antonette had saved over several months was only just enough to pay for the dress. She was very proud of it and was sure she could attract the attention of some rich guys at the dance.
Antonette was pleased with the girl's compliment. But she condemned the girl for not finishing her sentence, putting it down to a lack of social experience. Antonette decided it was better to forgive the young girl this time.
The two girls left and returned to their group of friends. Pointing at Antonette's dress, they laughed, "See. She must have bought it at a discount. Look at that loose thread."
One of the girls, quite tall and with distinctive purple hair, wore a cold expression. She had stood beside them to see what was going on. Hearing what they said, she walked to Antonette and looked at her carefully.
As the girl approached her, Antonette felt tense. She held her arms firmly against her chest.
