In the story, Stacy recounts growing up as one of four sisters, where her mother defined each sister by a single trait: Kathy as the "pretty one," Stacy as the "smart one," and the twins as "special." This labeling put pressure on Stacy, who dreams of being a pilot, but her mother insists she should pursue science instead. As they enter high school, Kathy easily fits in with the popular crowd, while Stacy struggles academically and socially, feeling out of place. The narrative highlights themes of identity, family dynamics, and the effects of parental expectations.