In the trial room, Woman is trying out Sale items. Man is waiting patiently outside, running his fingers through some sequinned silk. As he feels the sheer, momentarily, he is transported elsewhere, away from the accessorised showroom. His eyes glint at the shiny, golden blobs before processing the bold-red, off-the-shoulder gown and breaking into an appreciative smile. Love and longing flit through his horizon – passion gets the better of him as he reaches out. In a snap, the dress is off the rack – and has found a pair of shoulders to grace.

His reverie continues – the object of his affection waltzes by, in a form chosen by him. She turns and twirls; her hands over her curves as a new-found confidence kisses her, deep. Her shoulders no longer stooped – her back as straight as ever. She thinks of all the places she can wear this to – and her eyes start dancing. In this moment of trial (and success), she is already seeing results: of appreciation, envy and perception, as the Sale-induced jamboree fades into the background.

Slowly, she turns her head slightly and arches a crooked glance at him. His smile is one of pride and joy, at having been able to spot a winner in a store of perceived mundanities. She inches closer to him, and stands with her hands on her hips. She turns to look at the full-length mirror while he scans the look on the faces of others in the store.

And then, together, they both stare at the glass, looking at versions of themselves.

Nice, he says.

I know, she says.

He hesitates – a moment before saying another word.

She looks different, he notices.

Do you think your mother will like me if I wear such clothes, she poses – loud enough for three passers-by to catch.

He turns a little red.

Bravely he answers: as long as you are not at a family function in this.

She was halfway to the trial room – halts in her tracks. Turns back, takes a look and a smile crosses her lips: if only all of Life’s trials were so easy!