Amelia had always been resourceful, balancing her life as a new mother to baby Max with her work as a skilled seamstress, a craft she had learned from her grandmother. Between sleepless nights and feeding schedules, she found comfort in the steady rhythm of her sewing machine, taking on projects to help support her family. When her stepsister, Jade, called with an urgent request, Amelia hesitated. The two had never been particularly close—Jade was polished and image-conscious, more invested in appearances than relationships—but this time her tone carried an unusual urgency.
“I need six custom bridesmaid dresses,” Jade explained. “The wedding’s in two months. I’ll pay you well, I promise.”