“So do you have plans this weekend, other than studying?” “I’m going to a fundraiser on Saturday night. I think it’s cocktail attire. Am I right?” “The DSCC one?” “Yeah, that’s it.” “I’m going, too. I’d wear a cocktail dress to be safe. I usually do.” Megan didn’t mention Stephen also planned to attend the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee fundraiser that night. Instead, she used it as an opportunity to probe. “So, do you have a date?” “No, I’m just going with a group who got some comp tickets.” “You’re so pretty. I assumed you’d have a date.” “Hardly. I’m definitely average. I grew up with a bunch of gorgeous girls who could out-ski anyone.” “Hmm. Well, you know what they say . . . ‘Washington, D.C. is Hollywood for ugly people.’ Everybody in D.C. is a geek. Being pretty and smart in this town makes you unique and desirable. ” “That’s very nice of you, thanks. But I think I identify more with the geek part.”
