A soft blue gown that hugged her perfectly. Vintage curls pinned just right. A glow on her face I’d never seen before—part excitement, part fear, part something that looked a lot like a dream waking up.
She stood in front of the mirror, smoothing the fabric nervously.
“What if people stare?” she whispered. “What if I ruin this for you?”
I took her hands. “Mom, you made my life. You can’t ruin anything.”
We arrived at the school courtyard for photos just as the sun was setting, the sky streaked pink and gold. Music floated through the open doors. Laughter everywhere. Cameras flashing.
For a moment, everything felt perfect.
Then Brianna showed up.
She strutted across the courtyard in a glitter dress that probably cost more than my car. Her friends trailed behind her like an entourage.
She stopped dead when she saw my mom.
Pointed.
And said loudly enough for half the courtyard to hear, “Why is she here? Is this prom or Bring-Your-Parent-to-School Day? What an embarrassment.”
Her friends giggled.
I watched my mom’s smile falter. Just a little. But I saw it.
I felt fire in my veins.
I stepped forward—but I didn’t get the chance.
