What is the main conflict in Marriage a la Mode by Katherine Mansfield?

In "Marriage á la Mode," Mansfield creates a world ruled by parasitic, immature, and unful- filled adults. Both the characters themselves and Mansfield's choice of imagery convey the essential hollowness of these people's lives. Every detail in the story adds to this impression, from a strawberry bonnet to conversational quirks. Again, Mansfield demonstrates her talent for keen characterization and subtle observation.