Because Brianna had no idea her father, Mike, was standing right behind her.
He’d heard every word.
He walked up slowly. Dangerously calm.
“Brianna,” he said.
She turned, annoyed. “Dad, relax, I was just—”
He raised a hand.
“I’ve been quiet long enough.”
The courtyard went silent. Phones lowered. Whispers stopped.
He turned to my mom first.
“You look incredible,” he said gently. “And I’m proud to stand next to you.”
Then he faced Brianna.
“Do you know why your stepmom missed her prom?” he asked.
Brianna rolled her eyes. “Because she got pregnant. We all know.”
“Yes,” he said. “And do you know what she did instead of dancing?”
