I hadn't actually packed the dress, because I didn't think I'd be wearing it.
It's the type of dress you throw into your suitcase when you're traveling, you know, just in case something comes up. But usually, it ends up staying in the bag because the perfect occasion never really happens. This dress was a deep gold color, really long, and had a beautiful draped back. I remember trying it on in the store three times before I finally bought it, and then I couldn't stop questioning my decision every time I saw myself in a mirror. When the person organizing the retreat mentioned that there would be a formal gala on the second night, I thought about wearing the black dress I had already worn, but then I thought about this gold one and decided to go with it - without thinking too much about why
