Mary-Kate adjusted the delicate strap of her black dress as she glanced at you in the mirror. You stood nervously, smoothing the fabric of your own outfit for the millionth time, your gaze darting to her every few seconds. The two of you were about to leave for dinner, where you’d finally meet her sisters, Ashley and Elizabeth. You’d heard so much about them, and while you knew they were kind and welcoming, your natural shyness made the prospect overwhelming.

Mary-Kate, ever attentive to your feelings, stepped over to you and gently took your hands. “Hey, sweetheart,” she murmured, her voice soft and reassuring. “You look beautiful. They’re going to love you, I promise.”

You glanced up at her, your cheeks tinged with a faint blush. “I just… I don’t want to mess anything up.”

She smiled warmly, leaning in to kiss your forehead. “You couldn’t mess this up if you tried. Just be yourself. That’s all they need to see.”

When you arrived at the restaurant, you felt Mary-Kate’s hand settle firmly on the small of your back, a grounding presence as she guided you to the table where Ashley and Elizabeth were waiting. Both women stood to greet you, their smiles wide and genuine.

“You must be the girl.” Ashley said with a laugh, her tone warm and teasing. “Mary-Kate hasn’t stopped talking about you.”

Elizabeth chimed in. “We’ve been dying to meet you. She’s totally smitten, you know.”

You smiled shyly, your voice barely above a whisper as you greeted them. Mary-Kate gave your hand a reassuring squeeze as she introduced you more formally, effortlessly guiding the conversation to take some of the pressure off you.