"I'm outta here," Jessica says, getting up from her spot in the corner. She tosses the magazine to the floor and makes her way to the door. "I have a date."      "Have fun," Melinda says, her voice quiet.      Jessica ignores her. "Don't wait up," she says, addressing her mother. "I'll be home late." Then she walks out of the store, obviously happy to be free.      Melinda stares after her, frowning. "I just don't know how to get her to like me," she says to Jean. "I've tried so hard."      Jean shakes her head. "It's not your fault. She's just being difficult. She liked being the eldest daughter. Now that you're here, she feels a bit replaced. She'll get over it."      Melinda nods. "I hope so. I guess it's hurting me a little more than I thought."       She puts a hand to her forehead. "How come getting married is so stressful," she says, forcing a small laugh.      Jean grins. "Darling, there is nothing quite like a stressed-out bride to be. You'll be fine."      "It's been a long day. We can continue this another time, ok?" she says, interrupting her silent analysis.      Jean puts a hand on Melinda's shoulder. "When the right dress comes along, you'll know it. There won't be a question in your mind. It seems we just haven't found it yet."      Melinda smiles and gives her stepmother a hug. "Thanks for always being the voice of reason, Jean," she says. "I couldn't plan this wedding without you."      "I'm happy to help, Melinda. You know that." She pauses and looks around the room, glancing at all the wedding dresses hanging on the walls. "I'll let you get changed. Will you be meeting us back at the house?"      Melinda shakes her head. "I need to catch up with Greg. He's moving into an apartment on the other side of town and I promised I'd help. The commute to the hospital is killing the both of us. We'll use that place until we sell my house. Anyway, please tell Father I said hello and give my love to Cynthia as always. I'm sorry she couldn't make it today."      "I'll tell them both. I'm sure Cynthia will want to call you later tonight. I'll see you soon. Try not to stress too much, ok?"      Melinda laughs. "Me stressed out? Never!"      Jean winks at her, gathers up her things, and walks out the door, leaving Melinda alone among the bridal catalogs and wedding dresses.