Jacqueline Manceaux is the shining star who makes Denise feel like she's sitting in the gutter. Every time Denise looks up, Jacqui is there, a reminder of all Denise's imperfections. When Jacqui invites Denise to a party, it takes all her courage to show up. But, once Denise is there, everything changes. The evening takes Denise down a road she never expected to travel. (4,235 words)