A successful developer, Mack Astor bought a 100 acre mountaintop in Aspen, and built a huge mansion, inviting all his wealthy friends to a housewarming. He invited his niece Mindy, her football player Lester and tall lanky brother Sid to work as servers. He ordered them outfits online: a dress for Mindy, tuxes for the boys.
Mindy sliced open the first box, pulling out a crisp black dress with white trim. Lester and Sid exchanged glances as she unearthed two more of the same, along with seamed black pantyhose and patent leather pumps. "Uh, Mindy, are there tuxes in there, or…?" Sid asked in a wavering voice. "Nope. Just three dresses. Oh wow, this is a mess," she replied, holding up the uniforms.
Lester shrugged, his broad shoulders making the dress look impossibly small in his hands. "If it’s that or no tips, I say we just go for it. Could be hilarious, right?" Sid hesitated, then nodded, cheeks flushed. "Come on, Sid, it’ll be fun. I’ll do your makeup," Mindy chimed in, already giggling at the prospect. The trio spent the evening practicing their best curtsies and giggling at their reflections.
Lester expertly weaved between guests, heels clicking, offering canapés with a practiced smile. Sid, cheeks still rosy, surprised himself with his nimble steps and polite greetings, while Mindy led the way, her confidence infectious. Mrs. Vaughn, a silver-haired grande dame, beamed at the trio. "Such charming servers! And so unique—how delightful!" The guests murmured in approval, slipping generous tips into their aprons.
Lester flexed his sore feet with a groan, grinning as Mindy counted their tips. "I can’t believe we pulled that off. I actually had fun," Sid admitted, surprising everyone. "You two were adorable," Mindy teased, bumping shoulders with her brother. The kitchen was filled with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.
The next morning, Mack surveyed his niece and her companions with pride. All three wore comfortable t-shirts with their pantyhose and heels. "You kids went above and beyond. You made the night unforgettable," he said, sliding three envelopes across the polished wood. Lester and Sid exchanged startled glances as they opened theirs. Mindy grinned. Each envelope held a crisp thousand-dollar bill, a testament to a night of unexpected fun and friendship.
